D'Arricarrère Family/Torpius/Miscellaneous RPs

Zena Jadewarrior

Letter from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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Dear Sister Zena, My divine mission forces me to remain a pilgrim, not being able to stay for long in a place as I would personally rather. Before I move from Pian en Luries, would Your Grace grant me the pleasure of sharing a meal and a conversation? Dei te incolumen custodiant,

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Fire Prophet of Aetheris Pyrism)

Letter from Zena Jadewarrior

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Fire prophet Torpius, I would be honored as I have been hoping for a chance to speak with you. I am so grateful your pilgrimage brought you here and I understand that you can not stay. I will have the cooks prepare a pleasant meal and welcome you this evening even or whenever is best for you. I'll be sure to have them prepare some food for your travels as well. And I hope and pray that when the time comes for you to leave us that you may have a quick and safe journey to your next destination. With humble admiration,

Zena Jadewarrior (Marchioness of Askileon)

Letter from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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Dear Sister Zena, Indeed that is more than asked, and perhaps deserved. My deep gratitude. Please inform the servants in my estate on what day and time suits you better, and I shall arrange my agenda to have that moment available. Dei te incolumen custodiant,

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Fire Prophet of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Zena Jadewarrior

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The entire estate was bustling with excitement as news of the Fire prophet's visit buzzed through the household. After seeing that the cooks were putitng together a travel package with bread and cheese and other non perishables. Zena scrawled a quick parchment and handed it to her scribe. "Here is a little something extra with the understanding that you will see that this message arrives sooner then later," she told the young lad with a stern but gentle voice as she handed him his wages. The boy feeling that the pouch was a few coins heavier smiled and offered assurance, "Not even the wind will catch me today, m'lady." Finishing her duties for the afternoon Zena made her way to the garden. Near the garden entrance was a pile of rocks. Looking them over she picked a medium sized one with a smooth flat surface. Then she carefully placed it at the end of a ever growing labryinth of rocks. Stepping carefully on the newly placed rock she begin to follow the pathway to its core. Each drawn out step she focused on her breathing as she emptied her mind, removing the fear of uncertainty she felt for the people of Askileon, the toils and heartache of war and the many other things that weighed heavily on her heart and her mind. When she reached the center she knelt down and closed her eyes. When she felt her mind and body truly at peace she softly began to speak. "I believe in the holy flames, which purify living and dead. I honor my ancestors, who give me courage and strength. I respect the spirits, who influence tides and seasons. I worship the Gods, who rule heaven and earth. I renounce the impurity, which corrupts mind and body. I reject the underlords, who consume flesh and soul." Sometime later Zena stood up and as she was tracing the path back she caught a glimpse of what looked like a white tiger a short ways off in the distance. This wasn't the first time she had seen this and yet still it made her stop and gasp. Before she could be sure of what she was seeing it vanished without a trace.

Zena Jadewarrior (Marchioness of Askileon)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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Night was falling, and after a long day of preaching through the streets of Askileon Torpius arrived in his estate. He dropped a rather heavy bag filled with scrolls, amulets and offerings received during the day, and then proceeded to do the same with his own body in an oaken armchair. He let his eyes rest closed and his mind drift to lands distant in both time and space from his current location. Then he seemed to hear a small boy gasping startled, and while his mind tried to process it he heard fast steps. Opening an eye he saw the figure of one of the servants' children disappearing through a door. He sighed with the realization that now they would know of his presence, and in a matter of seconds they made it clear. The first one arrived and bowed, announcing there were people carrying children to be blessed, and that most of them had been waiting for hours. Before he finished speaking his most trusted scribe, a thin, slightly curved, old-looking man whose height towered over any of his other servants, silently brought a large stack of papers and parchment and dropped them loud and unceremoniously in the table. Torpius answered the first servant with a weary smile that he would be conducting a blessing ceremony, instructing him to provide enough clean water to wash the hands and heads of the filigrees, and turned to his scribe, his voice showing not the slightest interest: "What do you bring me now, Venerio, anything of importance?". His scribe silently took most of the correspondence, creating a second pile, leaving three letters from the first stack. Torpius skimmed through the first one and quickly placed it in the second pile, for storage along other bureaucratic reports, took the second one, smiled and grabbed the pen and parchment his scribe was already handling him. After writing a short reply he started to make a request to Venerio, but with a mocking smile the scribe revealed the texts he was going to ask him to bring. Torpius made a half-annoyed, half-amused face and made a dismissing gesture with his hand while he wrote his signature and sealed the letter: "Yes, yes, send them attached to the reply... Why do you even torture me with this if you already know what my answer will be? I should have you flogged for your insolence. Reading my private correspondence before me and without my permission..." he trailed off while he read the last message and his semblance lost some of the tiredness and indifference he was showing earlier. "Ah, the invitation from the Marchioness, excellent, tomorrow I will not be needing you, so take a day off from your duties, go do whatever old fools like you do." To this the scribe made a few hand gestures in reprimand while holding a stern look over Torpius' eyes, who dismissed him with his hand while saying: "Yes, I know about that, I will see the Tyrist-issue when I am back from Luria Nova, and... no, no buts, it will be done then and this is the end of the matter. And I already know your opinion about it, thank you very much. I hope to hear when I am back that at least in one day during my absence you took a day off, stole some coins from me, gambled, seduced one of the maids or did anything besides your duties. And that is not counting tomorrow. If you do not start doing anything besides working you will burn out way too fast and be of even less use than you already are to me now. Dispatch a messenger confirming my presence in the Marchioness' meal, if you have not already. Dismissed." Ending the phrase with a dismissing hand gesture and pretending to read one of the letters, Torpius awaited until Venerio left not without showing a silent, yet eloquent and unconstrained, opposition. With a sad look on the now closed door, Torpius wondered how many wounds were still open in the soul of that man from the terrible night in which he lost his wife, children and tongue, and if he would be ever able to see them healed, for despite the disdain they seemed to treat each other with there was great affection between the two men.

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Fire Prophet of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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When the sun began to set and Torpius returned to his estate the servants had already informed the visitors that there would be no ceremony with the prophet that day. Instead he limited himself to check his correspondence - this time without Venerio's help - and cleansing himself. It had been a busy day, as they usually were, but today he was more enthusiastic than usual, having found renewed energies. After the bath he dressed a simple white linen garment, put a traveling coat over it, took a small wooden box and departed. Arriving at the Marchioness' estate he announced himself, and asked the servants to deliver the box to his hostess, containing a green jade salamander with a few small details in gold and vermeil connecting it to a carnelian base. The sculpture was not too large, the salamander itself being no longer than the palm of a hand and the base fitting in both hands open.

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Fire Prophet of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Zena Jadewarrior

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Nearing the early evening Zena stepped away from her duties when one of her attendants informed her they had drawn her a hot bath. She sighed as the warmth of the water eased her tender muscles. She laid her head back and as the warm water caressed her body she found herself unable to keep from drifting off to sleep. The image of the white tiger entered her dream as it had for the past few months. It would appear first from a distance and as it began to move away she would start to follow it. Each time the tiger seemed to guide her as she followed it through a hazy forest. Yet she always seemed to awaken before she could complete the journey and see where it was taking her. Tonight was different she felt a feeling of comfort and trust as she followed deeper into the forest. They entered into a clearing near a small lake with a roaring waterfall that seemed surreal. Beyond the area everything else was covered in a blanket of fog making the clearing below the waterfall feel completely excluded from the world. She turned to look for the tiger and noticed it vanish beyond the curtain the roaring water made as it fell from the rocks above into the lake below. She stepped forward to follow then stopped in her tracks as the water parted before her. Stepping out from the water was a personage that was beyond description yet reminded Zena of her mother. "Do not be alarmed," her voice seemed to embrace Zena with comfort and love. "My name is Elora. We do not often get permission for this kind of contact. You have a very open mind Zena which was why the Lioness granted this. How much you will remember or even understand when you awaken I do not know. But I have a message for you from the keeper of justice. Are you ready to receive it?" Zena's mind was full of questions but she nodded. Elora reached towards Zena and touched her forehead. Zena awoke in her bath, her water gone cold, with a start. When one of her servants knocked sharply on her door a short time later Zena jumped. She had been lost in thought trying to recall and understand this dream that seemed already to allude her. "Come in," she said softly as one of the servants entered. "Mistress the Fire Prophet has arrived," she said as she handed the small wooden box to Zena. "The Fire Prophet is here?" Realizing she had completely lost track of the time, she gathered the folds of her burgandy dress into one hand so she could move more freely. "Lets not keep him waiting." She took the small wooden box in the other hand and quickly made her way down the stairs to welcome the Fire Prophet in person. "What a joyous day full of surprises." she said with a smile as she greeted Torpius with a kiss on both cheeks. They spoke for a few minutes and then she invited him into the dining room. She sat the small wooden box on the table and once they were both settled she smiled again. "It means the world to me that you took the time to visit. If it is not to much to ask would you do the honors of blessing our meal?"

Zena Jadewarrior (Marchioness of Askileon)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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When Zena arrived Torpius, who had taken out his travel coat and handled it to a servant, bowed, and while receiving the kisses his face showed a moment of surprise, but was soon suppressed by a fond smile, relieved by her kindness. "Dear Zena, how fare you? I apologize for the simplicity of my appearance, specially in sight of such a graceful presence. I hope not to be keeping you away from your duties." His face betrayed mixture of joy, tenderness and a profound but momentarily forgotten weariness. A few wrinkles ran deeply across his front and eyes, and there was a slight dark hue around his eyes. After reaching the dining room and receiving Zena's invitation Torpius answered: "The pleasure of your company is all mine, milady, I was longing to share more words with you, but distance and duties never allowed me to. Now let me see..." He rolled up his sleeves to the elbows and raised bow hands, one with the palm down and the other with the palm up, before professing the short oration: "Warmth, smell, materia... Taste, nourishment, essentia... Spirits from within and Spirits passing by, May your light reveal my path and may my heart receive your burn. From few to many we are born, from many to few we return. May we, as one, walk to the embrace of the Gods." Torpius joined his hands, closed his eyes and stayed silent for a few seconds before very calmly, suddenly taken over by a sensation of peace, smiling at Zena. "Despite my current joy, there is a weight in my heart I must confess. While I worried before for your safety as a Pyrist among some nobles I heard were not fond of our religion I was tranquilized by the fact that Brother Wilfred was at your side, and your worship was not public. Besides, in the worst of the outcomes there would always be a place for you in my lands should you have needed shelter. But now the times have changed and Askileon is menaced with death and destruction, and I have given up titles and holdings. I have friends in Luria Nova and Luria Vesperi, but I am afraid I would not be able to offer you nearly as much as you currently possess. I worry deeply both for you and your future. Apologies for bringing such a dark matter into discussion, and feel free not to answer should you not feel like it, but please allow me to inquire if you have given thought to the issue." The spark of vitality flickered for a moment in Torpius' face, his eyes betraying a burden his smile attempted to hide.

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Fire Prophet of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Zena Jadewarrior

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With her eyes closed in reverence, Zena was overcome with comfort, peace and a warmth she couldn't explain as the Fire prophet spoke. The words of the prayer seemed to echo and ignite in every fiber of her being. She returned a smile to Torpius as he shared his concerns. "I have given much thought to the current situation, but I do not worry for my future but rather for the future of Askileon and the good people who live here. You see I feel there is a guiding force in my life and it seems to provide for my needs even thou I do not rely on it to do so. I do not even understand it fully," she paused to gather her thoughts. "If things take a turn for the worse I will do my part and then continue moving forward with the knowledge that I did my best with what was given to me. Perhaps my next task will be to open a door for the church in Corsanctum." Her eyes glimmered at the proposition. She continued, " I have been perplexed of late by a strange dream I keep having. Id like to share it with you." She began to recount the dream of the white tiger and the spirit Elora. Perhaps you will think I am insane for I am almost certain I have seen the same white tiger even while awake. I did some research and while flipping through some theories of mythology I found a reference to the Lioness mentioned in the Third War of the Gods. The Goddess Nasla of the peace council was called the Lioness. Perhaps you can tell me more of her? Is it possible that a spirit who works for her could be influencing my dreams?

Zena Jadewarrior (Marchioness of Askileon)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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Torpius frowned after hearing Zena's plan. "Corsanctum? Do you have any acquaintances there? For I am unsure if you would be allowed to open a temple of our faith in there, it is not only a Theocracy, but it is considered the center of Sanguis Astroism. I have lost already one good brother to the cold north, I would rather not lose another. Is that where your heart guides you? For if that is so, then my objections are meaningless." After hearing about Zena's dream, he became pensive, his gaze lost in air. "Yes, it seems that you are experiencing a higher call... Elora, Nasla... But no, I do not believe you are insane, my kind Zena." His smile returned an looking back at her he seemed to relax. "In fact, I believe your faith and the purity of your heart have made you a chosen one, and by noone else than the Lioness. If she has judged you worthy, as I believe, then you will be asked for a task, perhaps even to devote your life to the Goddess. In any case what is sure is that should you heed the call sacrifices will be asked from you, but you will also receive many boons." "Nasla..." Torpius started, his face showing he was trying to find something inside his mind, of difficult access. "How can I say? I know some things about her, though through the eyes of Katrina and Korroth. In my visions they showed me much of the history of the Gods, and naturally Nasla was an important part of it. It was quite... like a dream, in where there are some things that you know, but you ignore how, you simply see the person or object and certain qualities are implied... In any case, Nasla is seen by my Gods as a fair and protective Goddess, like a mother, but also a proud and mighty opponent, one to fear if on the other side of the battlefield. Of course that speaking of the Gods 'battlefield' is but a metaphor so that our mortal minds can understand, as are many of the images I wrote down about the history of the Gods. But let me recapitulate." Torpius thought for a little bit and restarted: "In the story I was 'told', Nasla appears during the first war of the Gods, on Vlan's side. Instead of pursuing personal glory, as her strength certainly would have allowed her to, she used her power to protect the weak. She was also highly loyal, staying with Vlan until the end, even after defeat was a certain outcome, saving as many as possible. It was as adversaries in such war that she met Tyka, Katrina and Korroth, who after seeing her prove herself both as a warrior and as a noble - metaphorically, of course -, became her closest allies." Torpius reclined and crossed his legs. "During the end of the second age Nasla reappears in the conclave of the Gods, and the shape it took is greatly owed to her, for Tyka had a fierce nature and did not oppose war, Waren abstained from such matters and Nalucht was favorable to a more pragmatic position of satisfying some of the lust of the mighty, at the expense of the weak. However, for some reason she was able to convince the Sweet Tongue himself, and the world saw peace and coexistence for the first time." He put the leg back on the floor and concluded. "If I had to describe her flaws, as seen by my Gods, I would say she is stubborn and may sin by pride. On the other hand she is the safe heaven when everything is falling apart, the last one to give up, and perhaps the kindest with those of pure heart. But all this is a partial vision, you may know another side completely different of the Goddess, and with the contrast we will be able to learn more about our respective Gods." He now gazed Zena and asked: "Are you unable to recall what was Elora's message? Please, try making an effort. But if your memory does not help, do not worry, we can attempt other methods, like meditation or prayer."

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Fire Prophet of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Zena Jadewarrior

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She stared off into the distance for a minute as if she could see the distant land they spoke of. She turned her attention back to Torpius, "You taught me that opening discussions of faith with others can often open a door where there seems none. My family is dear friends of the Ironsun Family. A cousin of mine, Lady Evalynn fell deeply in love with Aeolus Ironsun he was killed in a time of war and alas there story had a rather tragic ending but he holds a special place in her heart even to this day. That aside my family has deep respect for their family and they seem to hold the same regard for the Jadewarrior's. I understand the nature of Corsanctum and that it seems like a unlikely and very difficult task. Yet Conan Ironsun has recently been elected ruler of the theocracy and I simply wish to open the lines of communication regarding our perspective faiths. I know my place is here and I have no intention of leaving." She smiled at the fire prophet hoping he could see the sincerity of her words. As they discussed her dream Zena listened intently and with awe as Torpius spoke of the benevolent Gods. As he finished she sat back in her chair to see if she could recall the message that had alluded her in wakefulness. Try as she might she could not seem to pull the message from her subconscious. She looked towards Torpius thoughtfully, "I do seem to see the white tiger more often after meditating when my mind is most clear."

Zena Jadewarrior (Marchioness of Askileon)

Roleplay from Zena Jadewarrior

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Agreeing that meditation might help her remember the message imparted in her dream Zena invited Torpius into another room in the house where they would not be disturbed. As she knelt Zena smiled at Torpius before she closed her eyes and slowly began to empty her mind. After some time she began to feel a different connection with her surroundings, she could sense a kind of energy, a living force all around her. The energy from the Fire prophet was intense she could feel a harmony radiating from him that she couldn't begin to explain or describe. She continued to tune her mind refocusing until suddenly everything became serene her mind reaching such clarity that she no longer felt she was in her home in Askileon. It was as if she was reawakening in her dream. She stood near a roaring waterfall. Elora stood radiantly in front of her she smiled as she spoke, "It seems you were not ready before shall we try again?" Zena nodded and closed her eyes as Elora reached forward to touch Zena's forehead. Kneeling near the fire prophet Zena's body went limp as if she no longer had control of her body, she crumpled to the floor her body beautiful even in its eerie stillness. Elora whispered to Zena. "Open your eyes young one all is well." As Zena opened her eyes she looked around they were in a strange place she did not recognize. They stood on a hillside overlooking a valley. They were standing in such a way that they could oversee a small gathering of people, most of whom were sitting around a man that reminded Zena in many ways of Torpius. He had a kind handsome face beset with a gentle beard that cascaded down his chin to his chest. But his eyes were what caught her most by surprise as they reflected a deep unconditional love. Tall rocks created a circle around the area. Zena did not know how but she understood that this was a sacred place. A young maiden with golden hair pulled back in a tight braid and soft blue eyes caught Zena's attention. The young maiden seemed to be moved by each word the prophet spoke. So Zena began to listen more intently to what the Prophet was saying. She soon learned that his message was a message of love. He spoke of peace, love and charity towards one another. And how the world could be if no one raised up arms against his brother or neighbor. He continued to preach of service, kindness and love. As the sun began to set Zena became aware of a strange noise in the distance. An angry mob well armed, carrying torches was marching from the city towards the stone circle. The gathering of people seemed to take no notice of the angry mob. She wondered why they did not scatter or run away from this dark cloud rising against them. She wanted to scream at them to move before it was to late but she somehow understood that she was an observer here she could not intervene. The prophet began to pray and as he prayed Zena felt the deep love he carried not only for these people gathered around him but for all, even this angry mob. She felt a calm reassurance and understanding that he did not fear for his life. She somehow understood that this was how it was meant to be. When the mob reached the stone circle the gathered crowd parted in silence. The leader of the mob, a tall burly sinister man, shouted at the prophet. "Stand up and fight. Fight like a man you weak coward," he spat the words that almost seemed to come not from him but a darkness deep inside the man. The prophet stepped forward. "I will not fight you Leseus." he spoke gently. "You will fight me or you will die." Leseus retorted angrily. And with those words he grabbed the prophet by the back of his head and placed his sword at his neck. Then he laughed. "Now you will beg for your life." Before the prophet could speak the virtous young woman stood up. "Leave him alone Leseus." The prophet turned his gaze to the woman. "Elora it is my time do not fear for me, do not fight for me, remember it is only through love that peace can be found."

Zena Jadewarrior (Marchioness of Askileon)

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Before the meditation session Torpius heard Zena's answer and replied: "Ah... My condolences. I apologize, I suppose I overstepped. It is very wise indeed, since I came to Solaria for example we have gained two followers and a temple in Ciarin Tut. The Truth is spreads by word." During the meditation session Torpius had some trouble focusing, as he had been having lately. He felt as if he had aged decades since he first started preaching, though at the age of 23 he could hardly call himself an old man. He could not recall exactly when it started, but some pains in his back and head had become a constant annoyance, adding to his sense of weariness. Ignoring the discomfort he let his mind wander freely, preparing for the trance, but before he could truly achieve such state he heard Zena apparently fainting. He opened his eyes, and the scene brought several images to the limits between his conscious and subconscious mind. In the surface appeared a debate between two poets he had witnessed, one exalting the virtues of emotionally detached art by describing the beauty and excellence of craftsmanship of a jar, while the other considered it shallow poetry, he himself reciting about the dangers lying behind the beauty of a fair lady. On a deeper level came the image of a statue that had deeply impressed him as a child, depicting a beautiful maiden in her sleep. It was supposedly to honor the deceased daughter of a king. In front of him was Zena unconscious, radiating the same aura of peace and beauty that had disturbed him so long ago. Torpius pushed those thoughts away and focused. He took her in his arms and gently laid her down in a more comfortable position, perpendicular to him, facing the ceiling. Sitting with his legs crossed he rested her head in his arm and her upper back in his lap, a pillow in between them. He proceeded to address the situation: her soul was of no concern, for it was in the hands of the Gods now, but her body was vulnerable, exposed. Many stories had he heard about sages who found their mortal vessels possessed or corrupted by evil influences after their returned from their out-of-body experiences. He raised his free arm's hand in the air over her, closed his eyes and started humming slowly. He had heard the song from the native Dwili of Moon Bay but did not know the lyrics. Slowly he drifted into a state of calm and peace, unlike any he had experienced in a long time, and without noticing he started chanting in an unfamiliar language. His weariness and pain began to sooth, and before his rational mind could process what he was experiencing in a more precise formula he was taken by a total contemplative serenity. He kept slowly chanting and humming the hypnotic and protective song, his upper body slightly balancing following the rhythm.

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Fire Prophet of Aetheris Pyrism)

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Protected by Torpius, Zena's body gave no indication of the things she was seeing. The darkness consumed Leseus before anyone could react the prophet was gone his flame leaving his vessel as he went to a higher calling. Zena was overcome as she felt not only sorrow of her own but the pain and sorrow from both the young Elora and the spirit of Elora standing beside her reliving this memory. She watched as Elora fell to her knees taking the prophet in her arms she cradled him as tears rained down her cheeks. The gathered crowd and the mob stood silent, neither able to move or speak. Leseus was the first to break the stillness. He gathered his sword and wiped it on his tunic then walked swiftly out of the stone circle. He would find no further satisfaction here even as the darkness hungered and pulled at him for more blood. The mob who had been so keen to follow him slowly began to disperse back towards the city. As the faithful followers gathered around the prophet they lifted up there voices in song, the words seemed to carry and echo in the wind. "The phoenix radiant and bright burning, igniting, guiding, sharing the light. Evil rises up from its lair, corrupting, decaying, destroying, it does not care. The great battle is fought raging, blazing, amazing, a message being taught. Evil basks in victory so vain prancing, dancing, laughing, for the hero lies slain. Faithful watch the fire burn lamenting, mourning, grieving, sorrowful hearts still yearn. In the ashes the final spark lies churning, stirring, emerging the phoenix reborn arise. Our hearts burn as one, bright as the sun. Consume us, ignite us, unite us." The spirit Elora turned to Zena as the hillside began to fade away revealing the roaring waterfall once more. "There is something I want to explain," Elora remarked. This memory I shared with you was a changing point in my life. My heart cried out for revenge and justice yet to give into those emotions would betray everything the prophet stood for and taught. Wrought in anguish and pain, tormented that I did not do more to stop his death I became lost and confused. Nasla took pity on me. She began to guide me until I began to understand that I could love unconditionally and still protect and fight for righteousness. She taught me ways to deliver swift justice without taking life and I swore to the Lioness that for the rest of my days I would protect those who could not protect themselves." She paused for a moment then continued. "Zena you too are at a crossroad. You show great promise and have gained favor in Nasla's eyes. If this is a path you are willing to pursue Nasla has bestowed the power for me to guide and teach you. Take time to ponder and reflect on this decision. If you choose to follow this path you will have to show the sincerity of your heart to Nasla. This is where I must leave you. Farewell Zena. Courage be thy armor and love your truest blade." As Zena awakened she was slightly disorientated and yet comforted to find Torpius chanting as he watched over and protected her. She felt slightly dizzy as she tried to sit up. She tried to thank Torpius but she struggled to find the words. As the dizziness subsided she began to recount what she had expierenced.

Zena Jadewarrior (Marchioness of Askileon)

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Torpius helped Zena sit up again, and after hearing her account remained silently pensive, gaze lost in the air. "It is a sad story, tragic and yet filled with emotion and a message of hope." he said after a while. "But... the message is clear, and so is the call. Should I leave you to meditate on the matter? I am sure it is no easy choice."

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Fire Prophet of Aetheris Pyrism)

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A dark shadow crept over the room before Zena could answer. The darkness unconspiciously trying to penetrate into the inner mind of both Zena and Torpius like a slithering snake. Unaware of the darkness Zena shuttered. The strange sense of unease made her sit bolt upright.

Zena Jadewarrior (Marchioness of Askileon)

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With a renewed sense of well-being and energy Torpius did not feel the full weight of the shadow looming in. It did, though, make him frown and shift his body uncomfortably, but he swiftly and peacefully acknowledged it and began slowly humming again. His hand instinctively reached for the amulet in his neck, but finding it empty he felt sharp but brief coldness inside him. He had not brought it, and that gave him the sensation of being unprotected, vulnerable. But as quickly as the felling came, it subsided, and with a smile returning to his face he extended his hands to Zena's and began chanting softly, raising from a humming to a calm song.

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Fire Prophet of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Zena Jadewarrior

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A peaceful calm entered Zena's mind. She was puzzled and intrigued as she observed that the slight contact between them combined with the song seemed to create a aura of peace and serenity around them. She did not know the words to the song but she softly began to hum along. The dark shadow seemed to fill with rage it could no longer reach its prey. The dark energy radiating from it caused items around the outside of the room to shake and crash to the floor. The commotion in the room seemed far away as Zena focused on the song. She looked towards the beloved prophet who sat across from her. Her heart filled with gratitude and awe. She wished there was some way she could lighten the load he must carry or add her strength to his own. She felt a strange sense of confidence and an unshakable knowledge that Torpius was truly called of the Gods. With its energy exhausted the darkness vanished as quickly as it had come. Filled with new found resolve Zena looked around the room the peaceful trance broken. "What was that?" she asked her curiosity getting the better of her for a moment. She sighed at herself then smiled at Torpius. "This evening has been quite the learning experience." She looked into the prophets kind wise eyes. "I can not thank you enough for being here and helping me through this. I feel truly blessed to know you and I am ever thankful for all the guidance and support you have and continue to give me." She paused for a moment then continued. "I feel I would turn into a selfish creature if I take up more of your time this evening but please know if there is ever anything I can do for you or the church I am and will always be at your service. If you will excuse me for a moment I have something Id like to give you." Returning shortly Zena handed Torpius a small box filled with pure white stones. "A sage told me these are seer stones that belonged to the great seer Adromeasues. I do not know much more about them but Id like you to have them." Then she handed the prophet a travel satchel stuffed with bread, cheese and other non perishables. She took a moment to point out two flasks that fit into secure pockets on each side of the satchel. One was filled with water and the other an exceptional wine aged from a harvest long time past. "I am sad that you will be leaving Askileon soon but I hope you have safe travels and find many hearts open to receive the fire that comes from the truth and knowledge only Aetheris Pyrism can give."

Zena Jadewarrior (Marchioness of Askileon)

Letter from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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My dear Zena, I am close to start a journey to Summerdale, in where I am planning to stay one or two seasons at least to spread the faith in those lands, by invitation of their Queen. I was wondering if I could see you once more before departing. With affection,

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Fire Prophet of Aetheris Pyrism)

Letter from Zena Jadewarrior

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Dearest Torpius, I would be most honored and quite happy for a chance to see you before you depart. I am excited to hear the work is spreading so far. I must apologize for beside my best wishes there is a pang of saddness rising in my heart thinking you will be gone so long. I feel foolish for thinking this but find myself wishing I could keep you company on your journey and help further the work. Forgive my weakness for it is truly great news thou, another region opening its doors to the flame and seeking the truth that warms the heart and enlightens the mind. I heard a bard sing an enchanted melody once I don't recall the story that inspired it but the words of the song have been running through my mind ever since the night you last visited and I wanted to share it with you. "The finest parts of me Are only shades of you To put aside the ties that bind Is the goal of man I give my word To stand the test of time No more wasted days The past must perish The line is drawn I pledge my devotion There is no turning back This heart is yours I sacrifice for you For you For you This is immortal The finest parts of me Are only shades of you With each passing day This heart is endless No more wasted time We are immortal The line is drawn I pledge my devotion There is no turning back This heart is yours I sacrifice for you For you For you This is the everlasting This is immortal Your words are my inspiration Your life, the image of perfection For all you are For all you've done I strive to be in your reflection The line is drawn I pledge my devotion." Until next we meet,

Zena Jadewarrior (Margravine of Askileon)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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The Priest Torpius is seen entering the city and heading directly for the Margravine's Palace.

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Fire Prophet of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Zena Jadewarrior

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The Margravine's estate was rampant with boisterous laughter as the household celebrated joyfully the news of the cease fire with Solaria. By the early evening many were beginning to show signs of having a fair bit to much to drink. Zena sat in her study, a green jade salamander with a few small details in gold and vermeil connecting it to a carnelian base was the only thing beside the candle resting on the desk in front of her. She sipped slowly at a small glass of wine and smiled as another round of joyous banter filled the main hall downstairs. 'This was a strange feeling' all her work was finished for the day and while the city celebrated she sat perplexed. She gathered the folds of her dress as she went to the window. Looking out over the city she wondered if this peace would last. Her mind still in defense mode. She had already contemplated different strategies that enemy forces might take to overcome the city utilizing the cover of peace as the city celebrated. Still on edge she took another sip of wine and tried to relax.

Zena Jadewarrior (Margravine of Askileon)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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On his way through the city Torpius attempted to keep a low profile on his way to the Margravine's palace, with common travel clothes, his baggage awaiting him at the gates together with his servants. Passing by a stall of the market, however, he heard a loud familiar feminine voice, which made him step on his toes. She was calling him, identifying him as "the prophet", arousing the interest of many bystanders who saw a change in their monotonous daily routines. Soon a small crowd gathered around him, and he was forced to briefly hear requests and distribute blessings. When the time of the girl who called him arrived she gave him a guilty look, to which Torpius answered with a quick look of reprehension, followed by a shrug, a pat in her head and a forgiving smile. She had had a strange disease, a possession of a spirit that made her eat soil from the garden and plaster from the walls of her house, which Torpius had healed. He exchanged some words and agreed to give a small sermon and short ceremony before departing.

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Fire Prophet of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Zena Jadewarrior

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Feeling strangely idle Zena slipped out of the estate and into the city. Walking through the trading district she overheard a noblewoman mention to a merchant how a small crowd was gathering to hear the fire prophet speak. She asked the woman for directions. She knew she was in the right place when she saw the crowd gathering ahead. She slipped into the back and smiled as the warmth and familiarity of Torpius' voice washed over her. She quietly listened to his words with devote admiration.

Zena Jadewarrior (Margravine of Askileon)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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Finished the brief ceremony, the merchants started to clean and retrieve the remains of their offered products: a wooden bin serving as a an altar, colored candles and leftovers from the burnt scented herbs, cereal grains mixed with ashes, bread sprinkled with blood, and so on. Just when Torpius thought he was free to leave, the girl calleds him again. "Pardon the inconvenience, but I require council, on... feelings...". "Love problems?" Torpius asked somewhat too loudly, becoming aware of it only after saying it, by the embarrassed expression of the girl. He could not remember her age, but it was something around the late teens, an age in where love issues were not a real surprise. Still, her spoiled behavior somewhat irritated Torpius. Could she not see he was busy? He looked at the sun's position with some apprehension and answered: "Alright, lets find us a place a little more discrete to talk for a moment". Reaching an empty stall in the proximity, not truly isolated to ears or sights but still better than standing in the middle of the crowd, the priest sat in an empty wooden box, pointed to another one nearby for her to sit, and began listening. She explained she had feelings for a man out of her reach, which surprised Torpius, since as a good-looking daughter of rich merchants, with a decent heritage, she would be probably married to someone of similar fortune, approximating commercial families in both business and blood, or even to a lucky squire or an impoverished minor aristocrat who would provide her a good name. She hardly seemed one who would have an attraction so scandalous as for a servant or a simple man, unless her somewhat excessively pronounced good-manners was a disguise. But he also knew that the forbidden was often alluring. "Well, you are young, and these feelings come and go. There is your name you have to zeal for, and that lasts forever. Furthermore..." "But that is not an issue", she retorted, "it is his name I want to preserve". "Oh..." started Torpius, realizing the girl could be seeking the classic knight-in-shining-armor fantasy of every girl. "Does he know about your feelings?" "No...", she answered with a sad face, "I hesitate in speaking about it with him, for he is important and filled with duties..." - "the Commander or the King himself, perhaps", he thought - "...and I have nothing to offer him, I am just a...". Torpius put a hand on her shoulder. "Do not worry, you are a beautiful girl, I am sure you will find someone worthy of you, even if it is not this one." "But I love him!" she answered with the rage of a spoiled infant, her eyes wet. "Well, life is not easy, and sometimes we need to pass through such kind of feelings. Katrina teaches us to acknowledge the renounce of what is beyond our reach..." His sight began to wander off while he spoke. "...and if she has many duties... It might be selfish, to ask for such sacrifices..." She stopped sobbing, her eyes still red, looking at him puzzled. "So, do you say you truly love him?" Torpius asked, refocusing. "Yes, with all my heart!" she answered, with the conviction of the young. "Then you can do as I told you. Or... you could also foolishly seek him against all reasons of your mind, and let him know. Who knows? Maybe that is enough...". He smiled at her, stood up and turned to leave. "But..." she stood and grabbed his sleeve before he could escape, and when he tiredly turned to face another question she kissed him, pressing herself against him.

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Fire Prophet of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Zena Jadewarrior

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After the fire prophets sermon Zena waited patiently for the eager crowd of faithful followers to thin. She marveled at Torpius and wondered how he endured the constant demands that came with being a man called by the Gods. Before she could step forward to say hello she was interrupted by a property dispute. Two merchants were arguing boisterously, both claiming to be the proper owner of the wooden bin used as the altar during the fire prophets sermon. One of the merchants recognizing Zena demanded that she resolve their dispute. After finding a resolution that both merchants could live with, Zena set off in the direction she had last seen Torpius. Walking past the nearby stall she was startled to see Torpius locked in a kiss with a young girl Zena didn't recognize. She softly apologized for intruding and quickly turned to leave.

Zena Jadewarrior (Margravine of Askileon)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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Nine tenths of Torpius' mind were far-removed from reality, planning his arrival on the Margravine's estate, foreseeing dialogues and analyzing possible outcomes. The rest was left alone in the stewardship of his body and its interactions with reality, which could possibly explain why when the girl kissed him he made no immediate reaction. In the limited repertoire of situations his inner steward homunculus was able and prepared to react to, the sudden kiss certainly was not included. After a small deliberation and proper confirmation that the situation was beyond the scope of the governing body, a state of emergency was declared and all the wandering bits of mind enrolled back to service. It took some time, but they were finally able to return to normal levels of functionality. This all translated into Torpius slowly sloping backwards with an unflattering confused look on his face, which would make the malicious tongues comment on how not particularly bright he appeared. For him, though, it was more of a sudden drop from the ethereal dream-world into a close encounter with a warm and aggressive being, pinning him and... the girl was kissing him? When his mind regrouped and reached such simple and elegant answer to explain the situation he saw her detaching herself, her face blushing red, noticing Zena, and swiftly running away in embarrassment, feeling clearly shared by the two other present ones. He then heard the Margravine's apology and as she turned to leave he somewhat mimicked the girl's prior movement, by moving forward to grab her arm and ask her to wait.

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Fire Prophet of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Zena Jadewarrior

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Everything seemed to happen simultaneously. Zena could feel the crimson of her burning cheeks as she turned to flee the unexpected situation. The brush of Torpius's hand as he reached out to her mere moments before Zena, in her haste, collided with a young boy carrying a chicken. The chicken freed from the boy's grasp flew up startling a horse pulling a cart the opposite direction. Within moments the cobblestone street had turned into complete chaos as the cart crashed into the next stall filled with pies and pastries which launched into the air quite haphazardly. As the pies rained down around them Zena began to laugh. She continued to laugh as she looked towards Torpius and the young maiden running away in the confusion. The awkwardness of seeing their kiss had completely washed away in the unlikely circumstances. It was as if the universe had somehow intervened for the moment. Noticing a small chunk of pie resting on Torpius's shoulder Zena reached over to pick it up. "It is good to see you again Torpius," she said with a smile.

Zena Jadewarrior (Margravine of Askileon)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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At Zena's mirthful response Torpius gave up on trying to find reason in the absurd situation he had suddenly found himself into. His carefully considered plans and strategies for the moment of meeting her were now meaningless, as life upheld its fame of being unpredictable and filled with surprises. Around them the scenario's chaos would not have been overshadowed by that of a trampled ant colony: a merchant angrily accusing another of the caused damaged, two young passersby attempting to calm and subdue the scared horse, the cart driver resting between pies and wooden debris of what had once been a stall, and of course the usual migration of curious observers, more interested in watching than helping. Torpius, however, was completely unaware of all this."Despite the circumstances" he answered with a chuckle, and, as Zena approached him, he absently raised his hand to caress her cheek with the backs of his fingers, lost in the contemplation of her beauty.

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Fire Prophet of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Zena Jadewarrior

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Zena found herself suddenly at a loss for words. Her cheeks turning a rosy pink as she blushed. Her heart skipping as she became lost for the moment in his caress. As the surreal moment passed she looked around at the chaos. A sense of duty and propriety taking over. Feeling there were things left unsaid she looked affectionately at Torpius. "I feel I must help take care of this mess I have caused. Perhaps we could rendezvous at my estate after I set things right here." She then set about helping the cart driver to his feet and reimbursing the merchants for the damages.

Zena Jadewarrior (Margravine of Askileon)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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With the clearly more prudent Zena bringing him back to reality, Torpius acknowledged her proposal with a nod. "Indeed, lets take care of this confusion". He joined her in rising the cart driver to his feet and then went for the boy of the chicken, who looked visibly frightened. Putting a hand on his shoulder he started comforting him, telling a tale of old. Walking with him he started telling his story louder and gesticulating, and began to attract the attention of the gathered crowd. As he spoke of battles, betrayals and heroic deeds he moved away from the place of the incident, taking the way-obstructing crowd with him. It took him a while to finish the story, but in the end he saw the the spirit of the crowd raise, as their faith in the crown, a parallel clearly drawn between the King and the heroes of old. The horizon beginning to take the beautiful myriad of colors preceding the Askileon sunset, which Torpius was certain was rivaled by no other Lurian city, he finally took the direction of Zena's estate.

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Fire Prophet of Aetheris Pyrism)

Redwald Halford

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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Returning from the Golden Fields, in where Torpius had spent the whole day preaching, he found quite a commotion in where not a day ago had been his newly-taken estate. The servants were removing everything, and preparing to move it all to the Southwind, an estate located near the bridge connecting towards Pianese and Vesperian lands. "A very suitable place" Torpius thought to himself, before noticing the arrival of another noble. Gazing the group Torpius approaches alone in his horse and gestures them: "Greetings, I am expecting my new liege, the Lord of Ciarin Tut, and his newest Knight to arrive. May any of you be one of them?"

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Priest of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Redwald Halford

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Redwald was sitting amongst his men. The ironically named 'Honor Legion of War' was a lowly outfit of ill-trained men who thought of themselves as great heroes. A few had held a knife in inane bar quips and pagehood woman-conflicts, but none knew how to fight. A few were playing peasant games, others were drinking. Redwald was talking to Captain Galhad, a thick man with a thicker skull, when he heard the hooves of an approaching horse. Redwald looked upon the horseman with surprise, and then interest after hearing Torpius' introduction. "Yes. I am Redwald, the new knight of Ciarin Tut." Redwald paused to inspect the newcomer. "Who might you be?"

Redwald Halford (Noble)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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Torpius smiled at Rewald's reply and answered: "I am Lord Torpius, your peer as a knight of Ciarin Tut and priest of Aetheris Pyrism. It is a pleasure to meet you." He takes a look at his men, and without dropping the smile he continues: "I see your men are getting acquainted to the region, it is a good one, I assure you, though the dry winds of the northwest can make the temperature drastically change without prior notice. Your estate is located following the road to the north." He pointed said route and asked: "Mind if I guide and make you company? I am quite interested in knowing more about yourself, your roots and your beliefs. Tell me, do you honor your ancestors, respect the spirits all around us, and worship one or more Gods?"

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Priest of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Redwald Halford

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Redwald looks at his men, shakes his head, and then turns to Torpius. "My men are far too acquainted with the region, a little dry spell might help whip them into shape. In any case, I would favor the company of a priest." Redwald motioned to his captain to take care of his men while he is away. "I am from the Halford family. We are two brothers, I am Redwald the elder. My father died unexpectedly in a battle, I was too young to understand. But now I know that it is my duty to revenge my fathers death and to seek honor for my family name. Ancestors are the things I worship most, for they have created who I am and they imbibe my very soul. My brother believes there are spirits, he would talk of them. That is why he stayed in Perdan. I do not necessarily disbelieve him, but I simply do not know. I came to Dwilight to find myself." Redwald paused for a moment in contemplation. He was, perhaps, a little homesick. "You ask a lot of questions. Tell me, what are your roots and your beliefs?"

Redwald Halford (Noble)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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Torpius listens carefully, and replies: "Indeed, curiosity is certainly a very particular trait of mine. I must say that I condense both your and your brother's beliefs, in both my ancestors and in the spirits from the world, and besides them I also worship and keep a close connection with the Gods from above. They have commanded me to create a Church that would worship them and have us honor our ancestors, many of which now look upon us by the side of the Holy Ones. We also take the opportunity to learn as much as possible from the Divine, and be able to deal ourselves with the Spirits we come across. Should you be interested, you might find aid for your enlightenment path in our community. But please do not answer me now, rest first and meditate upon the idea." As he finishes the sentence Torpius hands Redwald a small book containing the principles of Aetheris Pyrism along with descriptions of some rituals and prayers. "Tell me, as you have recently arrived to Dwilight and the Lurias is there perhaps anything you would like to know? I have lived in these lands for years, and been either part or close witness to many important events, such as those that erupted into the war that is now ending the one of the two oldest-standing realms in Dwilight, the motherland for all Lurians: Pian en Luries."

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Priest of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Redwald Halford

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Redwald's head was spinning as he put down the little book Torpius gave him. 'I am in awe. My mother told me of the Austere Star, but never of gods or flamma or the worlds that exist with and beyond our own. Tell me, not of current history, but of the other world. My imagination has been captured, and I would be honored to join your community. What must I do?' Redwald put his head down. Something in his gut told him that the preaching horseman with the book and goodwill would be more important than he could ever imagine, if he wanted to reconnect with his brother's spirit.

Redwald Halford (Noble)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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"All you have to do is publicly profess your affiliation to the Church, your acceptance of its credo", answered Torpius, so I can welcome you as a full member and brother-in-faith.

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Priest of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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"The history of the worlds..." Torpius began, his gaze lost in the horizon, "it is a very peculiar question, one not many make, but I hope I will be able to satisfy. See, there was a time before time as we know it, in where things existed in a way they no longer exist, and the mortal world was but an idea. Back then the Gods 'lived' and fought each other, but they were not alone. Great spirits of evil we call Demons, not to be confused with the earthly Daimons, among other entities lurked the Spiritual Realm, and from time to time threatened both the Gods and the existence itself, for in their greed and lust they fueled an entity we call by the epithet of the nothingness, may his name be forgoten." Torpius took from a small pouch a pinch of a brownish powder and put it in the palm of his hand, while opening with a single hand his waterskin and washing the soiled hand, never interrupting the story: "Though the essence of the Demons might not be different from the Gods, and be a name for the fallen ones, this is still subject for much debate, but do not let me get carried away..." Drying his hand in his robe he got back to the subject at hand: "Anyway, many things happened during this time, certainly much more than we know, but by messages from the Gods through visions we came to know some of it. See, at what we call the beginning, solely because it is the first we know of, not meaning everything started then, such world was ruled in stability by a strong alliance between Charkh, the Executioner, who is one of our Gods, and he who we now call the 'Dark Underlord'. As with all things, his rule passed when he was slain - and notice that death holds not the same meaning to the Gods as it holds to us, for they are truly immortal - by betrayal from the Dark One. See, at that time another God, called Vlan, the Hellborn, gathered many of the displeased Gods and started a grand rebellion. It was a time of strife and chaos, and it was the perfect moment for the betrayal that ended the rule of the Tyrant." Torpius took a sip from his waterskin before continuing: "and that marks the end of the first age, and is followed by one of sorrow and pain, in where the Demons rule the world. This forced the quarreling Gods to unite for the first time, and with their combined might overthrew the Demons, and started the third age, one of peace imposed upon everyone, for that was the agenda of those leading the Gods." Gesturing to the group, Torpius says: "As we humans, who were modeled in the image of the Holy Ones, the Gods also have a hard time finding peace and consensus among them, and the prohibition of violence angered many of them, whose nature was in itself more violent. This led to two results of grand importance. The first one is that some Gods corrupted themselves in order to acquire power and subvert the order. Unrecognizable, they turned into what now the Undead are modeled in the image of, destroying the stability. The second one is that the Demons gained allies, further weakening the rule of the Gods, who were forced to gather in a grand conclave, for they were to face threats never seen before, in the battlefield the world was that resembled nothing of what it used to be, for the corruption had also scarred it. It is there that enters Nalucht, the Sweet Tongue, God who devised a plan to create a world to model their own, though in a much simpler and crude shape, so as to fool and trap the Demons and corrupted Gods. Every God gave some if his essence, and even the Underlords ended up influencing its shape, so the mortal world was cast as a shade of the Spiritual Realm, and now serves as a trap for the Unholy Ones, who live far underground, thinking to be in ruling from above. And we, humans, are the servants of the Gods, made of their essence, and bound to return to them should we be wise enough not to corrupt our essences or see it destroyed and consumed by the nothingness." Torpius ended the story gesturing at everything around them and asked with a smile on his face: "what do you think of all this?"

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Priest of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Redwald Halford

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Redwald looked down and gave a pensive sigh. "What do I think? The tale of gods and demons and the world below our own is compelling." Reflecting upon what had been said, a glint of worry came to Redwald's eyes. "The world is, as you said, crude. Are we doomed? What is the Nothingness, and how may I keep my essence pure? Who are my enemies, and who are my friends in this world for rejoining the gods in the skies? I feel as though I turned over a rock and found the universe!" Redwald looked up at Torpius, but his face was smiling. "You know something? I like you. You know all the histories and remind me very much of my brother Thrydwulf. He was also a very good storyteller." Redwald pulled out a small stone slap from his pocket. It was smooth and unmarked, and it fit entirely within his palms. "Watch this." Redwald carved a small symbol onto the stone. His lines were elegant and clean, and eventually the marks formed into a hatched pattern. "This is the symbol for my family, the family chisel-stone means everything to a Halford." Redwald put his hand out with the stone, offering it to Torpius. "If you accept it we too will be brothers, and I will take an oath to fight your enemies for I have none."

Redwald Halford (Noble)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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Still smiling Torpius answered: "The mortal world is crude, but only in comparison to the spiritual one. Imagine, if gazing at the complexity and variety of lives and sights one is marveled", Torpius was now extending his arms as if to cover everything around them, "if at some points of life one loses his breath, perhaps in the sight of the beauty of one's lover, or in the majesty of the liege to whom respect and obedience is owed... If all this could be considered crude in comparison, how wondrous is the spiritual world to where we shall return when this is over? Surely worlds lack to describe it. So, doomed? I hardly think so, I believe we are blessed beyond imagination. It might be that this world's outer shell is doomed, but all the spirits residing within it will transcend, should they avoid the paths of corruption or consumption." Torpius took then a darker semblance: "But who is this nothingness? Who is the enemy? To the first question I could answer that it is one of the ones referred in the second. When we abandon sanity and hope, when we leave natural order, then we give in to the nothingness, and we have our essences consumed little by little until there is nothing but the empty shell of our bodies. But he is not the only enemy, for the Underlords still act upon this world, and even though trapped and fooled, their power is great, immense if compared to our simple natures. They tempt us and attempt to corrupt us, to take our essences for themselves and eternally feed the greed and lust that burs them from the inside. For that we must not give in to temptations, or let corruption stain us, least we feel like joining such a filthy end..." He returned to smile, albeit weakly now, but as he spoke he started to be taken by emotion: "Indeed, you describe very well the feeling of finding the Truth about what surrounds us and the glory that awaits us... But await until you have seen a glimpse of what the future holds us! Until you have felt the embrace of the Gods..!" His eyes focused, his fist firmly closed, his arm tensed lost in gesticulation, he suddenly stopped, and with a slight blush in his cheeks he retook the speech: "But, yes, apologies if I have been taken by passion, it is hard for me not to be overwhelmed with it after experiencing what I have... But time will show you, of that I am sure, and when the time comes we shall partake of the feast of the Gods as brothers." Torpius smiled and receiving the stone in his hand he answered: "It will be an honor to accept your friendship, and you may consider me a brother through this life as well from now on. But worry not about my enemies, for either they are not from this world or their ill intentions find no reciprocation in me. I am but an instrument, a servant of the Gods, and their will I shall see done. Men and Demons may oppose me, but they will not be facing me, but something much greater than I, simple mortal messenger."

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Priest of Aetheris Pyrism)

Ruron Sidorov

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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Finding the Earl in Ciarin Tut, Torpius approached and saluted: "Greetings, Lord Mattan Dews. I have been told you were passing through the region. How fare you in Solaria's westernmost reaches? If you do not mind, I would like to inquire you a bit on spiritual and perhaps philosophical matters."

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Priest of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Ruron Sidorov

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Ruron returned the salute:"Grettings Lord Torpius d'Arricarrère and welcome to Solaria, you have been told correct and I stand ready to answer any and all inquiries you may have. Tis challenging managing a region who's boarder shares that of the wilds, but it makes for never a dull moment. What brings you to these Solarian lands, surely it cannot be to seek myself however if it is please share. Let us take our conversation to the nearest tavern I intend to leave come sunrise unless you would like me to say longer." Ruron leads Torpius into a local tavern finding a place to discuss matters in peace, orders a round of Ciarin Tuts finest brew, "Can a man of the cloth join a fellow lord in a drink or would your Gods not favor it?" chuckles to himself and raises his glass, "To Arbiter Solari, to the fallen, and to prosperous dealings!" Ruron drinks of his goblet, then setting it to his left he began to pack a pipe with the finest tobacco of Mattan Dews and all of Solaria for that matter. "I am ready to begin, what is on your mind Lord Torpius?"

Ruron Sidorov (Earl of Mattan Dews)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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"Appreciation for your hospitality." Torpius made a slight bow showing both palms to open sight as a sign of friendship. "I have come to offer the Solarians to share what has been passed to me from Above, and ways for they themselves to get closer to the Divine and learn from it. The common people I have come across during my preaching speak well of you, and for the hospitality you show me I would say they were not mistaken." Reaching the local tavern Torpius calls the patron, points to the peasants in the room making a circle with his finger, and then points it to the door. Two attendants are summoned and start asking the men to leave. "If the ale is as good as it is praised, then it is naught but my duty to drink in honor of the Holy Ones, and I would not dare defy the Gods." Torpius chuckles and raises his glass. "To the wise Arbiter, to the Spirits around and to the Gods, may they be praised!" Torpius takes a drink before inclining himself forward, lowering his tone as he furrows his eyebrows: "Please take no offense, but I assume you are not from around, are you? While my profession naturally places me around commoners it is usually not well seen around here for a warrior and Lord of your station to share drinks in the presence of the lower men. I personally believe they worry in excess, and gossip too much in the court, like agitated eunuchs, but I would still not want to be guilty of soiling your good name, even being the possible stain so..." he gestures in the air, looking for the right word: "petty?" He makes a face of scorn and disgust of the rumormongers and takes another long drink. "But anyway, let us not worry about the whispering maids, I wanted to discuss spiritual matters. Do you by any chance worship one or more Gods? Offer sacrifices to the Spirits for safe travels or good harvests? Ask for guidance and protection in battle to your ancestors? Do you hold any beliefs on the nature of things, and what makes a moving object move, what makes fire burn, or what makes a fine drink," he raised his glass, "quench a thirsty throat", and emptied it, before signaling for more.

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Priest of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Ruron Sidorov

Message sent to (Personal message to Torpius d'Arricarrère)

Ruron drank to the toast of Lord Torpius, he then leaned forward himself to hear what Torpius was saying.…puffed of his pipe and replied, " Non taken my good fellow, I am aware this tavern seems like no meeting place for men of our stature but I knew not where else we could rest our feet and taste of local brew. Were we in Mattan Dews I could show you true hospitality fitting of what you deserve as a Lord and Priest." Puffing again Ruron looked at the common eyes and tounge being used with whispers and subtle glances. "If anything at all I take piety on these common folk, it also reminds me of the blessings of being a noble. Let them say what they will for thier thoughts not matter now." he leaned back in his chair puffing again and place the pipe on the table, his eyes following the peasant girl bringing more ale. Ruron grasps the goblet filled with fresh ale, " One last toast before we begin and that is to stimulating conversation amongst these common walls." he gave a look around, smiled and drank. " As a boy I lived in the forest of Nida and remember having many Gods, though I never truely understood it. A part of the reason why I left to find a religion I can understand. Lately I pray only to the strength of my bow before battle and," he took another drink " to be honest with you my friend I have not paid much attention to the Gods once I arrived on Solarian soil. I myself am a recent Earl and it has allowed me to elevate, not only status, but thought aswell. Meeting men such as yourself and Earl Francoise lend proof of that." Suddenly shouting began behind them and the noise of bottles being broken. Two peasants fight each other tooth and nail, perhaps over a spilled drink or woman the bothed desired. No one could know for sure, such was common in peasant watering holes. " There is something you cannot find in many Lordly halls," Ruron laughed and took another drink, " entertainment with passion and fine drink to wash it down. I apologize for not having such a high religious background but would like to ask what you believe. A Priest that can enjoy ale as much as you bring joy to know not all men of the cloth are not dull. Please share your knowledge of your Divines, I wish to be educated and enlightened through your words." Ruron leaned forward to eliminate all distractions so he can better hear Torpius' next words.

Ruron Sidorov (Earl of Mattan Dews)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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"It is not this rabble what I am concerned about, but of the idle tongues in the court of Poryatown who would be thrilled to spit their venomous rumors whenever possible." As soon as the peasant girl serving them placed the glasses in the table Torpius grabbed her by the arm and brought her near him, almost sitting on his lap. "See if you find anything edible in the kitchen", he whispered in her ear, "something light, to go with the ale, but not your peasant filth, something decent, appropriate for the Lord next to me". Immediately after being released the peasant scurried into the kitchen with the palest face of the room. Torpius laughed cheerfully. "This people are so easily impressionable. No, it's not their tongues which worry me, as long as they are doing as commanded." The priest shared the toast and listened carefully, his semblance pensive. "Indeed, the Earl is a true noblem..." Before he could finish the sentence the sounds of the fight interrupted him. He sighed and gave a resigned smile seeing Ruron's amusement. "Indeed, such brawls are uncommon in more refined places, though not completely unheard of. And as children they must be separated and punished. Perhaps sending a few of you men to escort them to the local dungeon...?" "There are no needs for apologies when you have committed no grievance." Torpius held his cup high, his gaze lost, as if searching for something in it. "You ask me what I think, and I will be honest," his gaze turned back to Ruron, "I do not think you are so devoid of spirituality as you seem to have implied, and from what you tell me there is indeed religiosity in you, just not of the traditional type. See, I believe in three dimensions of the Divine, though this is merely an academic separation: the Holy Ones from Above, the Ancestors from the past and the Lower Spirits from around us." He gestured with one hand to encompass it all while he drank with the other. "You, my friend, while preached to the strength of the bow were doing it to the latter. See, there are spirits everywhere, in every thing. That is why the wind blows, why the rain falls, the reason why we breathe, instead of choking on air as we do in fumes. That is because the air is usually inhabited by benign spirits, but in some places of corruption and decay evil spirits take over the air, possessing men through illnesses or even causing their deaths."

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Priest of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Ruron Sidorov

Message sent to (Personal message to Torpius d'Arricarrère)

The servant girl broke Torpius' word to which Ruron gave a menacing glare "Be gone with you girl" he watched her give a timid bow to both and scurry off. "Free of unworthy ears, the idle tounges of Poryatown do act as snakes which I hope to cleanse." Ruron shouted to the innkeeper, "Have these mtownieown outside, if they wish to solve problems as animals so be it. Should they not find themselves outside by the button of my glass you shall accompany them to the dungeons!" he began to drink rapidly motivating his requested resolution. "It may seem as weakness but they will get thier just deserts working the fields. Especially in these times of winter, every peasant is needed to get us through. But I ramble on." The food lay before him but he had not known what it was for his mind raced of thoughts. Thoughts of the Divines Torpius spoke of, the connection of his past to the spirits he speaks of. "I bid you continue my friend, I wish to have but a glimpse of your wisdom. What moves the wind, you and me?" Ruron sat in anticipation. The Priest seemed to be nothing he had thought, not self-righteous and arogent but a man just as himself. He ate from the plate but did not remove his eyes and ears from Torpius.

Ruron Sidorov (Earl of Mattan Dews)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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"Indeed, you clearly show skills in administration that I lack. Good men like you are required to rule the land. I, on the other hand, renounced to my region in order to pursue the spiritual ways. It would be very unwise to attempt to cling to every possession without being able to handle it all. Better to succeed in some tasks than in none. It was for that mistake that the city of Fissoa starved, losing more than half of its population... A sad story indeed, but now it is me who rambles on." Torpius apologetically smiled, gave a sip to his glass, and returned to the theological matters: "What moves us and the wind, you ask? Well, think about it, how do you know there is wind? You do not see it, nor smell it. You feel it, and you notice it by how it alters the things you see, for example by watching the branches of a tree moving without another cause. In the same way there are many things in this world that are not apparent to the eye, but that we can notice for the effect they have on other things. In fact I would say there is more hidden than there is revealed." Torpius took another sip. "So, in the same way that there is wind even if we do not see it, there are all kinds of spirits around us, which we can notice by how they shape and alter our world, and if we train enough, we become able to feel them, not unlike we feel the wind." Torpius made a gesture with his hand while drinking, as if feeling the direction of the wind. "And why would it blow? Why do people get sick? Why does the fire burn? Because of the spirits, naturally. The wind is inhabited by errant spirits, who always seek another home, never content with their current location. People will illnesses are visited by evil spirits, who consume and corrupt, and should be properly dealt by a man with spiritual training, often using the benign spirits of plants and other medicinal implements, to counter them. The fire, curiously, is inhabited by not precisely evil spirits, but angered ones. They seek to consume, to destroy, and so they do it with whatever approaches them. But, as men, their rage comes from a lack, as he who never finds a wife. Fire in contact with the precise amount of water will merge with it, in the same way a man and a woman do, becoming vapor and fleeing together from this world, perhaps to form something else..." Torpius finished his cup and called for the peasant girl who had not yet brought the snacks. "Apologies, the establishment might not have anything edible to offer us. Anyway, we move because we are too spirit-imbued beings, for we have souls, but much more complex and elevated than mere fire or wind spirits, who were made by the general Divine Essence to model the world the Gods live in. Instead, we were made directly with the Divine Essence of the Gods, seeking to model them themselves. But that is another long story, and I would really hate boring you with all this. In fact, I greatly appreciate that you were able to cope with my babbling." As he spoke the peasant girl finally arrived with a freshly baked apple pie. Though not precisely what Torpius had asked it did look very carefully prepared, even its appearance taken care of with cherries decorating its top in a pattern. It also showed that money had not been economized in making it, for both fruits were expensive for the common ones, specially in winter.

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Priest of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Ruron Sidorov

Message sent to (Personal message to Torpius d'Arricarrère)

Ruron drank and ate of the apple pie, soaking in all that Torpius has said. "You have brought enlightenment to the reassess of my mind and meaning to the happenings of nature around us all. Do these spirits and divines have names? I would like to learn more, become a follower and invite you to speak to my peasantry in Mattan Dews." He looked around eyeing the locals with piety, "Perhaps they have the ability to care of spiritual matters, those of Mattan Dews possess such as it will bring relief to the unrelentless beasts that trouble them. I pledge to construct a temple once becoming a member, there is much more to learn I feel and am willing to do so." Ruron drank again and finished the pie, "No need to apologize for your ramble as I enjoy the conversation of a wise a spiritual figure such as yourself. I have asked you here so I expect your many words and the more said the more I understand the Divines. How does one become a follower?" He signaled for another round and began to pack his pipe as he waited. "Would you be willing to travel to Mattan Dews? I will be headed in that direction shortly and would like to host you properly, better wine and food than this tavern." He lit the tobbacco with his eyes peering into the fire and the smoke now with a very different perspective, that of a spiritual one. Watching the smoke fade into the air his mind faded with it and realized he must have looked foolish, "Forgive me these spiritual themes are still swirling in my mind." he gave a chuckle and received the glass from the servant girl, raised and drank.

Ruron Sidorov (Earl of Mattan Dews)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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"Well, not quite what I asked, but certainly more than expected", Torpius smiled at the girl and gave her a gold coin. She bowed and left again for the kitchen. "They do, they do, at least the powerful ones we know of," Torpius said while eating, "though there is more documented on the Gods themselves than in the Lower Spirits, admittedly." He drank and smiled. "Having you as a brother-in-faith would be a great honor, and the erection of a temple would be cause of great joy in all the Church, indeed." He then finished the rest of the pie. "Well, for you to formally become a member all you require is entering one of our temples and publicly proclaiming our Credo, which you will seen written in its front. After you have done that you will be a Spark Seeker, and advancement within the Church is dictated by participation in its matters and in religious ceremonies. You can also choose to take an even deeper path of study and meditation, though few are the ones to trail it, usually reserved for priests and the very enthusiasts. You are certainly welcome to it, but in no way required to." Torpius emptied his glass and awaited the next round. "Travelling to Mattan Dews? It would be a great pleasure, I have heard much of its hardy people and the frontier environment. Certainly not a place for those weak of spirit. The problem is, you see, that I must soon start a long journey north, to the distant realm of Summerdale, in where I have been invited to preach, both to nobles and commoners. I should stay a season or two in those lands and then return. I would then certainly take up your offer, and in the meantime perhaps you could invite Priest Hendrick of Luria Vesperi to share the message with your vassals. In fact I would recommend you to share a drink with him too, he is an extremely wise and interesting man, and I suspect you will find great company in him and his knowledge." Seeing Ruron's embarrassment Torpius gave a friendly laugh and patted his back. "Worry not, my friend, if you allow me the audacity of calling you so, but I believe this brew is every single bit as good as it is said to be, and may be starting to numb our senses. How about we share one last toast?"

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Priest of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Ruron Sidorov

Message sent to (Personal message to Torpius d'Arricarrère)

"I would be honored for one last toast, and let us drink for your well being during your awaited journey" Ruron drank, smiled and said "You may be correct of numbing senses." He laughed and drank once more. "I will certainly invite the man you have reccomended and see that a warm welcome awaits him in Mattan Tower who's doors will always be open should you find yourself within its boundaries." He finished his drink and threw some gold pieces on the table paying for all of the pleasantries they had enjoyed. "I am glad you have accepted my invitation and thankful for the wisdom your have shared that has brought enlightenment to me and the people of Mattan Dews in the near future. May your ventures bring you fortunes of wealth, wisdom and all you desire. I hope to share a drink with you again upon your return and look forward to tales of your journey." Ruron then offered his hands as Torpius had when they first became acquainted, "May the Divines bless your travels my friend."

Ruron Sidorov (Earl of Mattan Dews)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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Torpius laughed with Ruron, and emptied his cup. "I will be eagerly awaiting our next meeting. This kind of pleasant talks are worth to me much more than fortune or fame of any kind. May I find more of these in the north, and may your sword, guided by the Above, strike true." The priest bowed before turning to leave.

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Priest of Aetheris Pyrism)

Celine Arundel

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

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Torpius d'Arricarrère (Fire Prophet of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Celine Arundel

Message sent to (Personal message to Torpius d'Arricarrère)

Celine stumbled through the streets after a long evening at the tavern. She was drunk, utterly wasted even, shifting directions like a flag in a hurricane. Down the path from her, a seemingly large crowd gathered around a single man, cheering and worshiping his every word. The drunken girl smiled a rather ugly smile to the thought of entertainment, struggling to grab a few silvers from her pocket. As she made contact, physical contact that is, with the group, she crashed between their towering bodies and stumbled to her knees, hurled forward by the overwhelming amount of bodies. She waited half a dozen seconds before lifting her head, looking up to the man who owned the pair of feet before her. She grinned - until a strong rush surged from within her stomach. Oh no! She thought to herself, Not now! And without warming, vomit projected from her mouth, landing on the man's feet. The robes covering them acquired a green-brown dye, and the feet a warm bath of alcohol and stomach contents.

Celine Arundel (Freeman)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

Message sent to (Personal message to Celine)

Torpius was about to leave his servants, who had darted forward, to carry and whip the young woman, but then he noticed something on her shoulder that changed his mind. "Behold!" he cried to the murmuring gathered multitude. "Here we have a sign of the Gods!" He gestured signaling at Celine. "They bring us the filthy, they give us the corrupt, they send us the lost, and for what? For us to see ourselves in them, to repent as they should!" He held the vomited part of his robe in his hands, showing it to the people. "May we not let them down, lets purify ourselves!" The crowd who had been increasingly agitated got lost in the religious fervor, the already Pyrists and those who knew them started singing religious songs, and a group of people took Celine from the floor and started carrying her on their arms, following the spontaneous procession heading to the temple.

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Fire Prophet of Aetheris Pyrism)

Roleplay from Torpius d'Arricarrère

Message sent to (Personal message to Celine)

When it arrived at the temple, the crowd had considerably grown in size, not only with the devout, but also the curious. Torpius signaled for it to stop in the temple's courtyard, near a fountain. Next to it, on top of an elevated stone construction working as an improvised pulpit, he addressed the gathering: "Fideles! It is a joyful occasion, one of new beginnings and better futures. The Gods order us to clean ourselves... To leave the impurities of flesh and soul behind! To gather in their embrace..." The priest entered the fountain, quickly followed by three acolytes. He signaled and the multitude dropped Celine into the fountain, while he received a large cup. "...but in order to do so, we must accept the Gods into our lives." Torpius filled and spilled a cup over Celine, as the acolytes held her half-standing, preventing her to fall again. "Today a child finds the warmth of the Divine, though it is not precisely hot in here..." he gestured to the water he was standing in, grinning, and took some chuckles out of the spectators. "You too, come here and find your call!" He addressed the multitude as the acolytes removed Celine, taking her into the living quarters of the temple. Torpius began symbolically washing with a prayer and a cup of water many men and women that swiftly formed a large line. Lesser priests joined him in the task, and eventually he left them to take care of the service themselves. He then moved into the living quarters to get dry and change his clothes.

Torpius d'Arricarrère (Fire Prophet of Aetheris Pyrism)