Welcome to Gaia! ::

As: Houjin/Iroh

An old man, seemingly harmless, out-of-shape but by no means frail or weak, walks quietly into the temple famous the Aquans as a place of their Gods. Indeed, as looked upon and around the ornate carvings of it's massive pillars and architecture, it's beauty is only equaled by it's sheer size. Time and tides had ravaged some parts of this place with hints of cracks and chips yet managed to stay strong as if it was forever part at home of the sea. Iroh, or rather secretly, the Fire King, couldn't help but admire the effort put into this building as he wondered around and looked towards the number of statues portraying their gods.

He did the best he could to respect them by bowing and praying in silence to each and every one he encountered. "How is it possible such wonders exist. Where these stones carved naturally by hand...or water?" He asked himself as he continued onwards. "And what if this palce gets dark, how would they worship at night? Or only during the day?"

((No not really, I don't like creating an PC just for the sake of filling a small role unless its actually a pivotal role, too much work IMO, as well as character presence time vs location restraints XD. I'm just fine with 'shooting the wind' moments))

((Well, whichever works best for you))

((Frankly, I'm not sure either but it would be awkward for someone to figure he's a fire wielder right away unless he has to. If you're REALLY that indecisive or confused what to do...then I really must recommend you go back to world building basics because if you're really interested in trying to entertain this stranger, this would be the best approach to it, ie, what is the purpose of this shrine? Is it exclusive to Aquans or can visitors go here? Who are these gods? How they became these gods? What made them more as legends to entitle such and not just figments of some imagination?

the rest will come naturally I hope. I'm actually a bit worried that you have to ask me this question. confused ))

Houjin turned his attention to the priest that came to answer his question. He spread a feint smile as he listened eagerly to the priest's words.

So the Aquans are not that different from us, he thought, still contemplating the architecture. He wonders how this compares to Terraen architecture. Well it is alot more pristine than an underground cave that's for sure. The water element has more force int heir own right than his Ignis fellowman care to only hear, being that Aquans were mere soft pacifists and work only as healers at best.

Adding more interest, was the mention of luminescent creatures from the sea. Houjin heard stories about them from books but this was the first time he heard such ingenious use of them, probably for the best since no fire can of course survive under the tide. He should consider this concept for his kingdom.

"But for those of us from the routes of Backahasten use a different method that you may want to wait to see tonight. You are here in time to see it as it just happens to be a time that enough of us are together to hold a celebration of our journeys"

"Ah such a wonderful opportunity!" the old man exclaimed in joy. It was indeed rare for an outsider like him, especially from an opposing kingdom, to see such a ceremony. "If you don't mind, please lead the way!"

He would ask questions alter, perhaps after the ritual was done.

Houjin followed obediently with a humble smile where he was led to a waiting room of other priests of other gods. He enjoyed a brief moments of peace, chatting in a mere casual conversations, although not forgetting to ask much about the details of their religion. Ah, he hadn't had this much leisure since the officer's ball back in Ignis. Not much pretty women to be found this time but that he didn't it much. True were the stories about the healers of Aquans as he enjoyed a brief massage, their food and drinks were no less than delicious and bountiful as the seas, equaled only by the appetite he grew from the long journey. During this time, he did began to reminiscence about this homeland and the hours blew by fast until the sun had settled. Now the moment had arrived for the main event he long waited.

He watched and witnessed the event unfold by the priests to their so called 'Backahasten' diety, following the walkway and leading to the outside night sky.

Who would've thought, the Aquans actually used astronomy as part of their ritual! Perhaps we should delve more deeper upon the aspects of stargazing too. he thought to himself as the welcoming ceremony proceeded. He probably should mind about the water, in case he might accidentally slip but thankfully at least it was not rushing water. However, as welcoming as peaceful serenity of this event had to offer, it's not with it's own share of troubles--mourning and grief coming from troubled friends and families made him think back about the tragedies of war, at least they knew some of their own were already dead, compared to the constant worry of ever wondering if they ever returned. It was hard for Houjin to bear the fact his own children constantly hoping for his return, when he couldn't have the will to tell them either way and move on with their lives.

To this, he quietly mourned, a frown visible. Houjin however, tried his best to reassure everyone in what little ways he could with comforting words.

After the ceremony, he approached one the priests and decided to ask some of the questions he had been holding onto for awhile now.

"Well that was a very spectacular ceremony, I'm glad am still be able to see it in my old age." He said, stroking hsi chin in pleasure. "Tell me, what is the back story of these gods you worship and how do your people come to know them in legend?"