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 Posted: Sun Feb 22, 2015 5:32 pm
This will be reworked later:
Setting:
This story takes place on a continent that has three major countries: Avara, Kitsun, and Vailwin. There are smaller countries on the continent, however most of them owe allegiance to one of the more powerful countries.
Avara
Society: Avara is a kingdom ruled over by King NAME and his stately wife Queen NAME. Each of the various provinces are in turn ruled over by Dukes and Duchesses who reside in the major city of their province. Smaller cities and the surrounding countryside are ruled over by Lords and Ladies.
Military: The military of Avara is known for how well they work together and they stamina. A small contingent of Avaran spear-men have been known to survive what should have been an overwhelming defeat for they are proficient at using their shields as an interlocking wall, and thus just have to hold on until reinforcements show up.
Geography: Avara is a mostly flat country with many plains, lakes, and rivers, making it ideal farm land. It also has quite a few large forests that hide many secrets.
Kitsun
Society: The government of the Empire of Kitsun is organized similarily to that of Avara, with one main difference, succession is not based on birth but on rank within the military, with the Jahangir at the top. Women and men have very different roles in the Empire, men are expected to master the fighting styles and dedicate their lives to climbing the military ladder to better their lives and the lives of their families, while women are expected to cook, clean, and otherwise provide for the family at home. The only job that men and women share is that of farming, everyone works the fields together.
Military: Kitsun's army has two distinct sections, the Qiang and the Jiang. The Qiang are the main force of the army, they wear armour made of a special lacquered wood that is as strong as the metal armour worn by other countries, and they wield long swords that are known for being sharp enough to cut a man clean in two from head to toe. The Jiang are secret force that is unknown to those outside of the Empire's army, they specialize in infiltrating other countries and taking out highly guarded targets, they are the spies and assassins of Kitsun.
Geography: Kitsun is a hard land and has bred a hard people, the majority of it's land is inhospitable, being composed of mountains and deserts. However there are Oasis' and valleys scattered about, each of which has been cultivated and fortified.
Vailwin
Society: Unlike the other two countries, Vailwin does not base the worth of it's citizens on who their parents were, their military prowess, nor what's between their legs, all people are considered equal in the eyes of the government. The government is a Senate composed of citizens, and each citizen is only on the Senate for four years at a time. Every citizen is required to serve for at least one term, however you may serve for more if you want, but they may not be consecutive. Vailwin focuses mostly on trading with the other countries.
Military: Due to it's small size Vailwin cannot field a large army, however it's focus on scientific and magical studies has allowed it to come up with many different innovations that allow it to go toe to toe with larger armies when necessary. The soldiers tend to wear light armour and rely on complex strategies to win. Each soldier is expected to be able to outsmart their opponents.
Geography: Vailwin is composed mostly of hills, which the citizens have cultivated into terraced fields for farming. It also has the largest coast line leading to a lot of fishing.
Plot:
A province of Avara, one of the three major kingdoms, is in open uprising. the King in response masses troops on the boarder of the province, which is also near the boarder of the Empire of Kitsun. The emperor masses troops telling everyone that they're preventing the rebels and fighting from spilling over the boarder
Avara accuses them of trying to aid the rebels and invade so they continue massing. Kitsun accuses Avara of using the rebellion as a pretense to invade.
Celestial judges are dispatched to arbitrate in the province. The day of the start of the arbitration the judges are killed before people enter the judges chambers. Another envoy is dispatched assuming that the Monks of the Void will kill who ever did it within the standard 3 days. On the 4th day they receive word that the second group of judges has been killed and the monks have not found who is responsible. Political accusations ensue, blaming each other for this blasphemous acts, war is imminent.
Gods:
Balance Caste: The Balance Gods are responsible to maintain the Balance and Justice of the world. They often act as mediators between the other gods, and only intervene in the affairs of mortals when they threaten to break the balance of the world on a large scale and no mortal means of correction are present.
Narvol, the Wanderer, caste leader and god of the Night. Takes the form of a man dressed in a mix of cloth and leather armours, is always hooded. Most assassin’s hold Narvol as their patron and choose to dress in his image.
Aquenos, the Living Glacier, god of the seas. Takes the form of a frost Gollum, a body of living water encased in ice.
Elunna, the White Lady, goddess of the moon. Takes the form of an ethereal woman in a flowing pale dress. She is most often worshiped as a guide for those that find themselves lost.
Power Caste: The Power Gods drive the fundamental nature of the world. They are the most temperamental and impulsive of the gods are the most likely to directly interfere in mortal affairs directly. Most often the focus of worship by warriors and rulers.
Valeana, the overseer, caste leader and Goddess of Storms. Takes the form of a translucent woman in dress and cloak made of clouds that shift from white to black to reflect her mood.
Ashtrinock, the Stone Warrior, God of Mountains. Takes the form of a massive suit of armour made of rock and iron.
Rosh, the Immolator, God of Fire. Takes the form of a man made of burning coals, his skin being an unquenchable layer of flame.
Life Caste: The Life Gods are responsible for overseeing the flow of life in the world. They maintain their domains, breathing new life into the world and reclaiming that life force when a being dies. Most often the focus of worship by farmers, hunters and others who live off the land.
Marcosh, the Chimera of Many Forms, caste leader and God of Beasts. Takes the form of a chimera made up of various beasts, usually representing the beasts of the area or the most powerful beasts of the world. Often worshiped by hunters and farmers with livestock.
Terinda, the Wood Walker, Goddess of Forest. Takes the form of a large humanoid tree covered in moss, vines and shrubs.
Pleteaya, the Golden One, Goddess of Plains. Takes the form of a fair haired woman carrying a basket of harvest.
Methods of Worship:
Narvol the Wanderer
· Prayers to Narvol are made during twilight hours of dusk as it is thought that is when the Wanderer is passing by spreading night behind him. The one praying must face directly north or south looking along the edge of the night’s shadow and say their prayers as the last of the sun’s rays are leaving in order to whisper their prayers to Narvol as he passes.
Aquenos the Living Glacier
· For those living along the coast or a body of water that leads to the sea, a worshiper can go to the water’s edge place their head under the water and say their prayers. These prayers are then carried out to the oceans for Aquenos to hear. Prayers can also be spoken into a cold basin of water to be carried to a body of water later, if a large number of worshipers are too far removed to be able to pilgrimage there on a regular basis. Farming communities often use this method, sending a single representative with a prayer basin to a nearby lake.
Elunna the White Lady
· Those that pray to the White Lady are often in need of guidance from the most visible constant in the sky. To demonstrate that they are lost and in need of guidance, worshipers will pray to the moon undressed or for the more modest a thin white garb. This is to signify that the worshiper has accepted that they are lost and are willing to let go of assumptions and receive the answers they seek.
Vaneana the Overseer
· Prayers to the Overseer must be made with great care. Prayers for benevolent action and blessings can only be made on fair weather or nurturing rains. Prayers for more aggressive intent such as help with vengeance, battle, etc, must only be made during gale winds and raging storms. It is said that the weather is a reflection of Vaneana’s mood towards those in a region, and so to ask for benevolent action while she is angry may draw that rage to you, while asking for blessings in battle allows for her to release her anger in a more constructive means.
Ashtrinock the Stone Warrior
· The Stone Warrior is said to be amused by feats of strength displayed by mortals. Prayers can be made to Ashtrinock anywhere on the land, but to ensure that Ashtrinock pays attention to their words, a worshiper must prove his strength before prayers are made. The greater the display of strength, the more the Store Warrior is amused and more likely to answer the prayers that follow.
Rosh the Immolator
· Prayers made to the Immolator are done so through burning various items. The most basic prayers can be made by burning a piece of parchment with the prayers in writing, while more desired prayers for specific things can be achieved through burning symbols of the desire. An example of this would be a warrior burning a wooden sword to ask for blessings in battle. The intensity of the flame is used to measure the intensity of the desire for the prayers to be answered. The worship of Rosh has led many warriors and smiths to become learned scholars in their pursuit of greater ability to articulate their prayers to Rosh.
Marcosh the Chimera of Many Forms
· In order to gain the favour of Marcosh one must first show that they can raise and care for an animal. This animal cannot be trained as a pet instead it must be treated as a friend and companion. If the animal reaches adulthood healthy and strong and has respect for the one who raised it, the person may then speak their prayers to the animal companion. Marcosh can hear the prayers spoken to these animals, and will answer these prayers in relation to the strength of the bond between animal and worshiper.
Terinda the Wood Walker
· To have the Wood Walker heed a worshiper’s prayers, they must find an elder tree that has been untouched by sentient life. This has led many communities to be founded around such a tree, with express restrictions about pruning or impeding its growth to the point that some houses will have to be moved to avoid getting in the way of its growth. The worshiper must kneel beside the tree and meditate until their mind is as calm and serine as the tree itself. At this point, they may place their hand on the tree’s bark and whisper their prayers. Prayers made in haste are often left unanswered.
Pleteaya the Golden One
· To pray to the Golden One, a worshiper must find a patch of fertile soil and dig a small hole. Getting on hands and knees, the worshiper must then whisper their prayers into the hole before planting a single crop seed of into the hole. They must then cover and water the hole before departing. A onetime prayer can be left to fend for itself, but a prayer that the worshiper wishes to last longer can be sustained by caring for the plant that sprouts. It isn’t uncommon for farmers to have a small patch of land reserved for the planting of prayers.
Narvol’s Scale (Celestial Order)
Narvol’s Scale is an organization dedicated to upholding the ideals of justice and balance that their patron god holds in highest esteem. Established over a millennia ago the organization operates through two two branches, the Celestial Judges and the Monks of the Void.
The Celestial Judges are the public presence of Narvol’s Scale and are composed of impartial judges bound only to the rules of justice set down by the order. A fully fledged judge is given the name of a constellation to symbolize their status as a trusted extension of Narvol’s justice. The bulk of the order consists of judges aids, who must serve for ten years before they are given the opportunity to adjudicate small matters. Once their sense of justice has been proven they are inducted into the judge’s order and assigned a constellation. The Celestial Judges operate in almost every kingdom and as to deny them the right to hold trials are always seen as tyrannical by a the citizens of a kingdom. While their decisions are often supported by the ruling power of a kingdom or nation, it is their reputation in conjunction to the second order of Narvol’s Scale, the Monks of the Void.
The Monks of the Void are a secretive order of warriors dedicated to ‘rebalancing the scale’ as it were. Their operations run the gambit from classic assassinations to helping train repressed people of a kingdom to allow them to stand for themselves. They are also responsible for protecting Celestial Judges who are being threatened. It is said that if one were to ever harm a Celestial Judge they have three nights before the Kights will come to rebalance the scale. To this day no one has survived past the third night and the longer this record goes the fewer attempts on a Judge’s life are seen. Like their brothers, apprentices entering Monks order must train for ten years before they are counted among the ranks. They are trained in several styles of combat both covert and open field, and both individual and in groups. They are also taught a wide range of combat tactics so to better be able to help strengthen those that must fight back.
In addition to their considerable levels of training, full members of either branch are trained in a unique form of magic. Celestial Judges are trained in a type of divination, allowing them to see the truth of a matter. This allows them to transcend the murky details born out of the accusations being thrown between two parties. The Kights on the other hand, are taught a unique form of shadow magic which allows them to meld with shadows, suck the light out of room or even attack a person’s shadow to deal injuries to the person’s physical form.
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Posted: Sun Feb 22, 2015 5:58 pm
Schools of Magic
Runemarking
While other magic users train for years to focus their life forces though thier bodies or though spoken words of power, Rune Mages prefer a simplified approach. Marking surfaces with words written in an ancient runes they can focus their energies to create specific effects spelled out in the runes. Larger and more complex the runes is reflected in the nature of the spell produced.
While a runic mage is limited by the need to be in proximity to a properly carved rune in order to use their magic, they have the unique advantage over other mages in that they can activate multiple spells much more easily than Incantation or Aura mages, needing only channel energy into the runes which them shape that energy into the desired effect. Rune makers are also the most the most celebrated among artizans, providing reinforcements and augmentations to armour, weapons and even buildings that can be used to enhance their traits by even inexperienced users. Runes will glow when charged and ready for use.
Incantation
Incantation is common among the more academic, requiring a great deal of time studying the exact variety of spells. By reciting these spells allowed these mages can produce a staggeringly broad variety of spells, securing Incantation as the most flexible school of magic. Spells with longer and more complex the wording generally produce more powerful or longer lasting effects.
While novice mages of this school must speak allowed the full spell word for word to produce the desired effect, those that pour themselves into their studies and who reach true understanding of the meaning of a given spells can develop 'short cuts', modifying the verses to increases their power or even shortening the time to cast. Because seasoned mages spend so much time in study, mages that follow the path of Incantation are usually regarded as sagely people and are often consulted for their wisdom. There have even been some mages so powerful that they have cast spells on objects that have lasted ages, in rare cases even rivaling the legendary artifacts of the Pantheon.
Aura Molding
While the other two schools focus on external learning, Aura Molders focus lies within. Perfecting the balance between their bodies, mind and spirit, they can harness the raw power of their bodies to produce a more primal magic. Molding the same energies used in other magics inside their bodies, they can release it in controlled bursts, increasing physical capabilities, producing powerful barriers and blasts of raw magic. Some mages can even mold their auras to create sympathetic reactions in the auras of others around them, affecting their moods or even sapping or boosting their energies.
While Aura Molders can produce powerful and unique effects, without using more refined methods of channeling their energies they often deplete their reserves faster than equal mages of the other two schools. Most mages make up for this by training in various forms of armed and unarmed combat to allow them to use their magical abilities more sparingly. Masters of this art are usually viewed as warrior scholars and spiritual leaders.
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Posted: Sat Mar 14, 2015 12:50 pm
Character Skeleton (work in progress)
Gaia name:
Character Name:
Age:
Race:
Social Status: (Job/rank in society, lord, farmer, warrior poet, etc)
Appearance:
Bio: (no need to overdo it)
Hero Trait: (Intangible character trait that sets them appart from everyone else, ie boundless will power, inspiration of others, etc)
Magic skill set:
Fighting skill set + weapons:
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Posted: Sat Mar 14, 2015 3:21 pm
Characters
Gaia name: Si_Valael
Character Name: The Seeker, (Given Name: Tywin Moonson)
Age: 34
Race: Demi-God (Half-human)
Social Status: The Seeker, High Monk in the order of Elunna. Responsible for finding items or people of great importance to the Orders of Balance. This position is always held by a child of Elunna.
Appearance: The first thing that people will notice about Tywin are his eyes. One a deep black, one a silvery blue, a sign of his parentage. Tall and lean with stern and strong facial features, creating an imposing presence in any room he enters.
Bio:: Tywin was born into this world on a burst of light on a full moon, deposited into the Kung Yun monastery on the southern border of Kitsun and Avara. Never knowing his father, or seeing his mother for years, the Monks and Priests became his family. They taught him the wisdom of the Pantheon and schooled him in all the skills he would need to replace his aging half sister and Seeker of the time.
When Tywin was barely halfway through his second decade, he began to lose focus in his training, often sneaking out of the monastery while his teachers were tending to the failing health of his half sister. These excursions increased once he met a young girl in the monastery markets. Sherya was a free spirit, bringing Tywin to the far fields outside the monastery village, exploring and liberating Tywin from the strict regiment of lectures and practicing.
A few years later the Seeker passed, and Tywin, ever pursing Sherya and her free spirited ways, was unprepared to assume the mantle. Despite his teachers pressuring and pleading he continued to push them away. Until one day when the pair were ambushed in the forest but a group of mercenaries. Their leader wielded a powerful artifact that decimated any attempt at self preservation the two made. It was only at the last moment when a handful of Tywin's fellow students and masters descended upon the conflict. The two sides clashed in an epic confrontation that eventually forced a stalemate, but not before the mercenary leader managed to slay Sherya. It took three master monks to pry a rage filled Tywin from the field and return him to the monastery. It was that night, numb from the loss of his beloved friend, that Tywin first reached out to his mother. Seeing her son as a truly lost soul she came to him, gazing down upon her prostrated son from where she hovered in his window. He demanded to know why she would have let something so devastating happen to her own son. She gave him a soft smile and told him that the artifact used was stolen from a priest of Rosh a month previous, and would have been Tywin's first assignment as seeker had he been ready. She told him that if he followed the path his birth had set him on he would one day enjoy true freedom, and more than he was destined to prevent a loss on an unimaginable scale. The next day Tywin's masters found him alone in the court yard deep in meditation, his hair cut short and his jaw set in determination. He spent the next several years embroiled in his studies, learning Kitsun style sword and spear play, and Avara style Aura molding, preparing for the day his mother foretold.
Hero Trait: Indomitable will.
Magic skill set: Seeker's Eye, a unique power that allow Tywin to see the unseen. Master level skills in Aura Molding.
Fighting skill set + weapons: Training with long spears and Kitsune style long swords as well as Void Monk unarmed combat. Tywin carries a cavalry length long spear, unwieldy for most people to use on foot, and a single long sword on his waist. He wears minimal armour, a sectioned chest piece, articulated pauldrons, gauntlets and greaves all made out of steel plates wrapped in leather.
Gaia name: IamSTRANGE
Character Name: Leya
Age: 27
Race: Unkown (part dragonkin, part catfolk, part elf)
Social Status: Travelling scholar/healer
Appearance: Leya appears to be a mutt of sorts, her body is covered in light red scales, with the exception of her tail, which is covered by light brown fur, matching the hair on her head that she wears in a long braid. Her eyes are light green cat eyes and she has pointed ears like an elf. Her smile is full of razor sharp teeth, her fingernails are closer to claws, and she has small ineffectual wings sprouting from her back. She is tall like an elf, but has the musculature of a dragonkin. All together it makes her stand out in any crowd and some fear her, however she knows that her appearance isn't who she is and she doesn't let peoples immediate reactions phase her.
She is usually seen wearing long green robes to indicate she is a healer from the University.
Bio: No one knows where Leya came from. She was found one night on the steps of a monastery in the capital of Vailwin. She spent her childhood working and living among the monks, but it became obvious that she was too curious for that life and so they sent her to the university to study where she discovered magic. She was hooked instantly and began studying incantation day and night. Leya was always curious about combining different types of magic, but it didn't seem to work very well until one day when she was watching some aura molders spar. One of them had intricate runic tattoos all over his body and Leya at first thought they were just decorative, until they began to glow. As he poured energy into his runes his fighting became more sluggish as did is aura, however once they were full he launched an attack like none Leya had ever seen. She decided then and there she would learn how to fight in hand to hand combat and get some runic tattoos to aid her in self defence.
Finished most of her studies at the University Leya has taken to travelling the world spreading knowledge and healing.
Hero Trait: Never loses her temper
Magic skill set: Incantation: specializing in healing, runic tattoos
Fighting skill set + weapons: Trained in hand to hand combat by Aura Molders, but far from an expert. She carries no weapons other than a long knife and her 'walking stick' and a sling.
Gaia name: PhantomMagi
Character Name: Vargus Whitemane
Age: 35
Race: Human
Social Status: Wandering Hero/Warrior
Appearance: Rough and haggard overall appearance. Wears a suit of well worn half plate under a heavy set of leather garments. Wears his hair loose, and it tends to settle like a mane over his broad shoulders. Despite being only 35, his hair is a silvery grey. Carries two distinctive swords, the larger across his back and the other sheathed at his side; both of these are emblazoned with a Lions head motif and equipped with runes in the hilts.
Bio: Trained as a warrior from a young age, Vargus grew up amidst constant conflict. Hailing from a mountain village on the borders of Kitsun, his people were a hardy folk, well suited for the military life they were forced to live. The mountain clans were under constant flux; fighting, merging, moving. Of these clans, the Sturmholt clan held the most land and the most power, a fact attributed to their Magebreakers, a sect of warriors specifically trained in the arts of combating magic. A fact the other clans grew to dislike. But try as they might, they could not break them. Throughout these struggles, Vargus had proved himself time and time again in the heat of battle, often aiding in the push that would turn the tide. After some time, his ferocity earned him the nickname 'the white lion,' and the mere mention would often cause would be attackers to scatter rather than chance meeting him themselves. His prowess would see him rise through the ranks, inevitably becoming commander of the Sturmholt Magebreakers in the battle that would change his life. He could only speculate as to what they had sacrificed to gain such favour, but the rallied clans has garnered the aid of the Immolator himself, who saw fit to send his own son to aid them. What followed was a battle of epic proportions with native casualties on each side. In the end, however, Vargus stood victorious over the smoldering corpse of the son of Rosh. Bellowing a challenge, the remaining forces scattered, leaving the Sturmholt to pick up the pieces. Though a great victory, the act of killing the son of Rosh left it's mark upon Vargus, who would ever after bear the black sash and title of Godslayer. Fearing the immolator would seek retribution against him and his people, and seeking to quell the worries of the faithful, Vargus made certain of his people's safety and left his home to wander the world, carrying naught but his title and his blades.
Hero Trait: Inspiring presence
Magic skill set: Runemarking, specifically those runes used in the projection of anti-magic fields. His swords are equipped with such runes.
Fighting skill set + weapons: Excels in martial combat. Generally carries two swords, being a broadsword and a greatsword, but is trained in most conventional weapons and could probably hold his own equipped with most anything. Can fight unarmed, but his skill is limited compared to his swordsmanship. His fighting style can be described as simultaneously brutal and graceful.
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Posted: Thu Apr 02, 2015 5:04 pm
Tywin watched as the convoy moved silently along the valley. A wide, loose ring of Void Monks established the first defensive perimeter they're eyes and heads constantly searching for any sign of danger. Within the ring was a mix of Void Monks and the Celestial judges honour guard, marching in formation. At the center of the formation, a trio of Judges high atop their mighty steeds, their silver and white robes glinting in the afternoon sun. It was the biggest show of force that the Celestial judges had put on display in as many decades. Tywin couldnt help be be impressed, but it wouldn't last.
As silently as cloud moves to blot out the sun the light underbrush of the valley erupted as a legion of armed men burst from their hiding places. Like an avalanche they crashed down the slopes of the valley towards the outer line. The monks reacted with such speed and precision as to eclipse the fearsome reputation of their order, but as the legion of raggedly dressed warriors began to group together their shear numbers began to overwhelm and break through the line. When they reached the core of the formation they found a line much more prepared than the one before. The honour guard and monks worked in tandem, the strong shield walls of the guards allowing the monks to weave in and out and take attacks of opportunity. Magic flashed back and forth causing the battlefield to erupt in a light show equal parts memorizing and terrifying. Tywin could see the celestial judges come together and begin focusing their energies together mouthing silent words. Just as their spell casting reached a climax, their light was eclipsed when the ground burst forth in light. There, clear as day, was a massive array of runes written in a runic language Tywin had never seen before. The whole world seemed to stand still in that moment, the expressions of fear frozen on the faces of both sides as the array pulsed, then exploded with a sickly green light. One by one they exploded in bursts of chaotic, uncontrolled magic, at first starting on the fringes of the array and working it's way in. As more warriors succumbed to their grizzly fate, the speed of the spell increased, rending flesh, clothing and armour alike until not a single trace of the encounter was left. As Tywin looked on in horror, the runes that had burned so brightly a but a moment before sizzled and boiled the earth until the ground they had emerged from was not but a blackened disk.
Tywin could feel his breath begin to quicken. "No. No that can't be it." His eyes darted this way and that. "There were no mages channeling magic among the ambushes." His eyes snaked their ways up the hill as the smoke froze as it curled into the air. "No one, no one at all... not even a trace or marking of the ones responsible?" His focused increased, his head pounding from the stress as he scanned every inch of the blackened earth. There, just as the slopes of the valley began to level, Tywin could see a stray piece of leather, a small distinct brand upon it. As the scene before him began to move once more, he could see a handful of rocks knocked loose by the onslaught rolled down to cover the stray piece of clothing.
"Seeker....Seeker!" The concerned voice of Tabeth jolted pulled him back to the present. Blinking slowly, Tywin watched as his vision from an ethereal blue to that of the earthy tones of the physical world.
"Tabeth. How long?" Tywin breathed heavily.
"Many hours, It is already mid afternoon." The female Void Monk knelt down beside the Seeker, placing a light hand on his shoulder. "You have over taxed yourself Seeker. Your nose..." With her other hand Tabeth held out a shred of the dark cloth that made up her robes and hood.
"My thanks, Tabeth." Tywin said as he accepted the cloth and wiped away the trail of blood running down his face. "Do not trouble yourself too much." He continued, catching his breath. "This is not the first time it has happened and will not be the last."
"Did you find anything?" She asked, a note of hope brightening up the usual dour tone found in so many Monks.
"I did." Tywin replied, slowly bringing himself to his feet. Walking over to the pile of settled rocks he had seen in his brief glimpse into the past, Tywin begain to push the rocks aside until he found the small piece of leather. Turning it over in his hand he let his fingers run along the strange brand of a snake ensnaring a scale.
"That's it?" Tabeth's words escaped her chest like someone punched in the gut.
"It is a wealth of knowledge compared to what we began with." Taking a long, steadying breath Tywin began to focus what little energies he had remaining towards his eyes. As naturally as one might flex a muscle Tywin brought forth his birthright, the Seeker's Eye, causing Tywin's world to become awash in shifting energies. Focusing on the leather scrap the energies began to order themselves into shifting shapes and images. "The leather is local, the brand fresh," Tywin mumbled in his trance. Looking up, the star field in his eyes faded. "Tabeth, get your comrades together. Make a copy of this brand for each member of your party and send them out in all directions. We find this brand, and we find the path to avenging our fallen."
As the sun began it's final approach to the horizon the Seeker tucked the leather into the wide sash around his breast plate and made his way out of the valley. "Oh great Elunna, steer my feet to the path I seek. Let the village Jarun be the first of many steps."
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Posted: Thu Apr 09, 2015 3:01 pm
How long had it been now? After months of wandering, the scenery began to blend together. Scattered towns interspersed between sparse forests and rolling hills. How often had he found civilization only to find the doors barred to him? Clearly the faith held strongly here. The social stigma of harboring the black sash bore too heavily of these small folk. He sighed, poking the remnants of the campfire in front of him, the last vestige of warmth in the cold night. The last reminder of what was once here. He chuckled softly. Those bandits hadn't stood a chance. It was like they hadn't even tried.
The last town he had been to had informed him of their recent troubles. Well... indirectly. They had told him to shove off, and while he was at it, to take the raiders with him. ...So he did. He smashed down the gates to their crude compound in the dead of night. It was easy enough to find. Few stood and fought, while the others fled for their lives. Didn't even stop to gather their spoils. Their supposed leader pleaded for his life, his men scurrying away like rats. He picked him up one handed, pulling him within inches of his terrible gaze. Fat, pitiful tears rolling down his face, he continued to babble and beg. Disgusting. "On pain of death, you will return that which you have taken. Do you understand?" A hurried, terrified nod. "Swear on the name of Whitemane." "I swear, Lord, I swear!" He dropped him heavily to the ground. "Hold true to your word, or no man or god will save your miserable hide from me." He stood and watched as the deposed bandit leader ran In the direction of the town, carrying what he could.
He shook his head, returning to the present. Is this what life is like outside the mountains? At least up there you fought for survival. Not like this. He pulls the scrap of cloth from his belt, the only useful thing the cur had left. A map. Within hours he could be in a new town. Hopefully, there he could find real rest. A bed. Comfort. Food that wasn't cooked and reheated by dying campfires. He looked again. Yes. This could work.
And so it was that Vargus Whitemane had come to the open gates of Jarun, tired and hungry. He adjusted his swords, tightened his cloak... And sought the nearest Inn.
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Posted: Mon Apr 13, 2015 11:45 am
Leya adjusted her pack on her back once again as she surveyed the area of forest that had served as her camp for the night making sure that she had returned it to the state in which she had found it. Preventative measures are the first step in healing, and she took that idea to heart in everything she did. No need to repair something you didn't break.
Satisfied she had not harmed the forest by spending the night she made her way to the road and continued towards the nearest town. If she remembered correctly the next one along this road was called Jarun, and had a bit of a shady underbelly that led to quite a few 'accidentally' stabbings or broken bones. Leya had quickly learned not to ask questions, and they would pay her. Not that she needed their money, she could survive off of what the Gods had provided, however money did usually mean a comfortable bed, and better medicines.
That was another reason she came to this town. It was almost too big for her to feel comfortable there, too many stares in larger towns, however it was near enough a trade route to have access to medicines she sometimes needed in the rural towns, and so she came twice a year to replenish.
Half a day later Leya was walking through the open gates of Jarun, the guards nodding to her in recognition, she set his leg this past fall, it seemed to have healed fully as well which was good. She smiled back, careful not to show any teeth. Though the people here knew her, her fangs were still unsettling.
Leya walked past the first inn along the main thoroughfare, it looked welcoming enough, however she knew that was where most of those 'accidents' happened, and so she avoided it. Heading to one closer to the centre of town, that was smaller, but also much nicer.
"Afternoon Tess" Leya said as she entered the homey common room. The large woman behind the bar burst into a grin, and hustled around to greet Leya with a hug, causing Leya to grin as well, teeth and all. This was as close to home as she had felt in a long while.
"Good to 'ave ye back girly!" Tess said as she guided Leya to a bar stool. "Tell meh all aboot yer adventures!"
"Well it has been an eventful few months." Leya said as Tess poured her an ale.
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Posted: Tue Apr 14, 2015 7:34 pm
Tywin approached the dank town of Jarun road weary but alert. While had never seen this village in person, he had seen enough settlements like it to know it's type on sight. While not lawless, it was a place where the rules were set by the rich and powerful not those that held official office. A place where anything could be bought discretely, even loyalties.
Taking a deep breath to calm himself, Tywin made his final approach towards the gates with an openly confident stride. His bright, well maintained garb made him stick out from the loose crowd around him too much to even make an attempt at blending in. He met the gaze of the guards openly, maintaining eye contact just long enough to show he wasn't an easy mark with out coming across as openly hostile. Those gazes in turn drifted back and forth between Tywin's features and the silver symbol of the Seeker emblazoned on his breastplate. He had barely made it past the first few buildings before he began to hear those behind him begin to whisper.
"The Seeker? Here?" "It can't be. If an artifact worthy of his notice had come here the markets would have been abuzz already. You know Kalesh can't keep a secret..." "He's here for Corban, must be. He's been dogging this town for too long now." "What about the god killer? Joseph told me a man with the black sash came here last night. Maybe the Seeker is here to balance the scales of Elunna?"
The whispers of Tywin's presence seemed to spread like a wildfire, even out pacing the Seeker himself as he wound his way slowly though the town. Soon the small crowds traveling from shop to shop began to part as Tywin approached, giving him looks ranging from silent wonder to smoldering contempt. Tywin made a mental note that he may not have as much time as he had hoped would be afforded to him by his status.
Prying his eyes and mind off the crowd he refocused on the task at hand. Remember the process. Seek those with information first. And who has their ear to travelers and locals alike and the time and inclination to sift through all their news? A renewed look of determination settled across his face, Tywin made for the smallest Inn near the center of town. With any luck, it's location will bring in more information. If the more civilized members of this society didn't have the answers I need, the types that will come out to play at night at the larger inn, as sure as Narvol's march will contine.
A few minutes later Tywin pushed open the door and stepped into the Inn known as the Ram's Hoof. A quick scan around the room revealed a busy but not overly crowded common room. Contrary to most Inn's Tywin had visited this one showed a remarkable level of decorum. Patrons could be hard conversing in a dull roar and even extending some pleasantries to one another as they passed by other tables on their way to and form the bar. Tracking one man as he approached the bar itself Tywin immediately pinpointed the source of the calm, taking the form of a stern, motherly woman taking up station there. The effect of her presence on the room was palpable. A good sign.
Tywin made his way across the room towards the bar at a slow deliberate pace, giving the room a chance to notice and digest his presence. Taking the last few steps, Tywin brought the butt of his spear down onto the wood floor with a dull thud to attract the attention of the inn keeper. Only to be completely ignored by the woman as she continued a conversation with a dragonkin woman. After a few moments Tywin cleared his throat loudly and was rewarded with a perplexed gaze from the inn keeper. Tywin made a mental note not to stand on ceremony here.
"Good afternoon." Tywin started, giving a small bow as the woman approached his end of the bar.
"Aye, tis." The woman replied matter of factly. "M'name is Tess. What can I do fer ye?"
"Something refreshing enough for a well traveled man." Tywin replied. Reaching into the sash like belt he produced a silver piece and placed upon the bar
"That'll get ye a flask of sharl, salted beef and bread." Tess replied, her tone all business as she looked him over.
"That sounds nourishing enough for the body. As for the mind..." He reached back into his belt and produced the folded scrap of leather recovered from the site of the attack. Placing it upon the counter he folded it, revealing the brand and a single gold piece. "I would like to stay the night if you have a room available. And any value left from that coin that has not been exchanged for your hospitality can be yours to keep if I find what I seek during my stay." He paused to let the words sink in, taking note at how quiet the room had gotten. "Now what can you tell me about the men who carry this mark?"
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Posted: Thu Apr 16, 2015 8:18 am
Leya was in the middle of telling Tess about some fool lord she had to patch up a couple of months back when someone entered the inn and slammed his spear on the ground. Leya's ears twitched but Tess wasn't looking to the newcomer so Leya continued. "He was furious with me for amputating his leg, but Tess if you had seen the colour of that wound you would have agreed it was the leg or his life. Of course try explaining that to someone born in silks." Leya laughed lightly as she sipped her ale.
Leya could feel the newcomer still standing at the bar down a bit, and she was about to turn to him to ask him to sit and stop looming, however he cleared his throat loudly, causing Leya to almost fall off her stool in surprise. Tess looked up at the man, and it seemed that she had been so engrossed in Leya's story that she hadn't heard the man enter. Leya had to smile at that, it felt so good to be back here.
Tess wandered off to see what this very serious looking man wanted and Leya turned about on her stool to survey the room. Since she had arrived a few townsfolk had wandered in for lunch, a few waved as they saw her looking around and she waved back. They gestured for her to come sit with them, but she wanted to finish talking with Tess before speaking to any other townsfolk, it was how she had always done things here, and so she waited for Tess to be done with the man. There was something about him that tugged at Leya's memory, but she couldn't place it. She noticed the scrap of leather he had placed on the bar and immediately recognized the symbol.
"I've seen that around before" she said, "On lots of different bandits I've encountered, I don't think they all belong to the same group though."
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Posted: Sat Apr 18, 2015 2:20 pm
It had been an eventful night, and it promised to be an eventful day. The rabble outside wasn't hard to pick up through the ramshackle walls of the inn. And it wasn't like he was sleeping very well, anyway. After the nailing the third prospective thief to the wall opposite his door as a warning to the rest, he had all but given up. He sat for a while, listening to the murmur drifting up through the floorboards. Something about a seeker, some impressive git who'd wandered into town all prim and proper, causing quite a stir among the locals.
"Well. May as well see what the fuss is about..." He sighed, rolling out of bed. He gathered his things, double checking to see if he'd possibly missed a fourth thief. "All in order... Good. The warning seems to have worked." He cracked his neck, settled into his gear and headed out.
"...Ah. Still haven't worked yourself down, eh?" The thief looked at him disdainfully, still suspended from the wall by a long knife. "Th' 'ell d'you fink?" Vargus laughed, yanking the blade out and causing him to drop to the ground. Swiftly, the blade was at his neck. "How's this for a change of pace, Thief? I've taken YOUR money, in exchange for YOUR life. Remember how this feels. Pray we don't meet again." Another shift in movement, and a boot to the back sent the thief tumbling down the stairs.
A moment later, Vargus entered the now silent bar room. All eyes were on him. Slowly he made his way to the bar, keenly aware of the apprehensive atmosphere. "Hmph. Barkeep! I think this'll about cover my stay... Oh, and some drinks for the room. Keep them flowing." Tossing the sack of coins to the surprised man, he made swiftly for the street, not wanting to be caught between the bar and the suddenly thirsty patrons.
"Right... Let's see now." He paused for a moment, listening to the daily gossip. The greatest hubbub seemed to be coming from further into town. Keeping to the side streets, Vargus picked his way through the once sleepy village. The newest visitor really was causing a stir. But even that couldn't stop the inevitable glances and whispers from the passers-by.
"Isn't that...?" "Look! It's the black sash!" "What? The godslayer IS here!?" "Shh! He might hear you!"
Ignore them, Vargus. It'll do no good to start trouble. At least you've found the source of the commotion...
A semi large crowd had gathered in front of a rather nicer looking inn near the center of town. A number of people turned to see his approach and the crowd slowly parted as the whispers, now not so subtle, inevitably started again.
"The Seeker AND the Godslayer? Oh, this'll be good." "Me money's on the Seeker!" "Eh, nah, lookit the swords on 'im!" "Is there gonna be a fight, dad?"
...This might not end well.
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Posted: Sun Apr 26, 2015 5:59 pm
Tywin turned to face the dragonkin further down the bar as she spoke. No, not a dragonkin, but something more. He corrected himself as he gave her a closer look. It did not take his ocular magic to notice the signs of the multiple legacies in her veins. If he had more time he would have liked to sit down with her and learn more about such a unique creature. Alas he only had time for one topic.
"I too found it on a bandit. Or rather what little was left of him..." Tywin replied to the Chimera-kin. "I have never come across this crest in all my travels of the three kingdoms and beyond. Pray tell, when did you first see this mark? I believe this knowledge is the key that will unlock the identity of the judge slayers." Tywin let his voice rise so it carried across the quickly diminishing murmur of the tavern crowd. He let his eyes dart around the crowd, reading the reactions at the mention of the lost judges. It was easy to pick out the faithful among the crowd, their faces suddenly sombre. Among them, the Chimera-kin before him.
No sooner had Leya finished speaker her piece than the door swung open with a great thud. Feeling a great presence had entered the room, Tywin turned calmly to face the stranger. His eyes went wide when he spotted the black sash displayed prominently across the imposing man's chest.
"God slayer...." Tywin whispered, his hand gripping his spear, preparing for battle. But which one of the three stands before me? Without thinking Tywin let energy flow into his eyes, turning his twin coloured eyes into fields of starlight. As his vision shifted a massive crest Sturmholt shimmered into view behind the man.
"Whitemane. What brings the Immolator's Bane to stand before me?" Tywin asked, forcing his voice away from accusing and towards curious. Using the time he bought with the question Tywin began to scan the man for other clues, stopping almost immediately as his eyes came to rest upon the cloth map barely visible over the god slayer's pack. Upon the map he could see the raider crest as plain as day.
"How came you by that?" Tywin cut the man off, raising a steady hand to point at the map. His face now a mask of serious intent. If this man had followed his god slaying path, it was a strong possibility he had aided in the slaying of the Celestial Judges.
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Posted: Tue May 12, 2015 10:08 am
Vargus narrowed his eyes coldly, his hand instinctively closing on the handle of his sword. I've barely been here ten seconds and already I'm reminded why I avoid these situations. He gave the man a long, cold stare, sizing him up. Not man. God. Half-god perhaps. Those eyes... They aren't normal. Hrmph. Wasn't expecting run into THIS kind of trouble for some time. He forces himself to relax and release his weapon.
"Lower your hand, Godling. You know my name and my reputation, but you clearly have no idea who I AM." Grabbing the map from his pack, he offers it up dismissively. "Take it. I have no further need for it. It led me here, from the camp of bandits I dispersed. Their so-called leader had it among his personal effects. Now if that's all..." He casually brushes past the demigod, not giving him time to respond, dropping the map in his wake.
He seats himself at the bar, smiling benevolently at the barmaid. "Afternoon, Madam. Lovely establishment you have here, though I question the clientele. What have you on tap?"
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Posted: Thu May 14, 2015 6:30 am
The serious man turned at the sound of Leya's voice and she saw his eyes were of two different colours, that paired with how he bore himself and she instantly remembered him. The seeker, she had seen him in the capital of Avara a few years back, there was some sort of the ceremony that he was part of.
"I believe the first time I saw it was perhaps a year or so ago. I am sorry that I cannot remember more acutely, I hadn't realized it was to be important information."
As soon as those words were out of Leya's mouth, the door banged open and she winced, hoping the door's carvings weren't damaged. In walked a veritable mountain of a man looking as if he had travelled as long as Leya herself only with less care for tending to his gear. She felt anger emanate from The Seeker as he saw, and apparently recognized the man. It took Leya a moment longer to notice the black sash and realize exactly what it meant and how The Seeker would react. She took a deep breath and began pouring energy into the tattoos splayed across her body, preparing strength in case this turned into violence and she needed to step in.
She watched the exchange between the two powerful men carefully, examining every twitch and blink, ready to jump in the moment things became too much. As the Godslayer, called Whitemane by The Seeker, dropped the map at The Seeker's feet she saw the tension ripple through the Demigod's body, and his jaw clenched. She jumped from her stool and scooped up the map before The Seeker had to stoop himself, and she handed it to him. "Seems that man has quite the chip on his shoulder" She whispered to him, her eyes on the back of Whitemane as he sat and chatted to Tess who poured him a mug of ale looking quite nervous. Leya caught her eye and gave her a comforting smile. "If this is to come to blows all I ask is that you take it to the street where you are less likely to damage property and people." As she said that she looked The Seeker in the eye and held his gaze for a moment before returning to her stool and downing the rest of her ale.
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Posted: Wed Jun 10, 2015 6:15 pm
Tywin stood his ground under the gaze of the Godslayer, drawing himself up to his full height and adjusting his grip on his spear as he saw the man ready the blade on his hip. Tywin knew little would be left standing of the pub if the two were to clash here, he would have to end it fast if it came to that. As quickly as the moment had begun it came to an end as the Godslayer relaxed, his aura shifting into a more docile colour even though it maintained it's chaotic swirl. He continued to watch the Godslayer with unblinking eyes as the man passed by and dropped the map dismissively.
"My thank, friend." Tywin said, forcing his voice into a more diplomatic tone. As he turned to retrieve the map he came face to face with the chimera from before. Taking the map when she offered it he gave her a curious nod of thanks, smiling at her snide remark. "It seems he does at that." Lowering his voice he continued. "Worry not. If things he intends to cause any kind of trouble I will ensure this place and it's people come to no harm. May the light of Elunna guide you." Giving the woman a slight bow, Tywin retired to a nearby table, situating himself so that he could both consult the map and keep an eye on Vargus at the same time.
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