Pax: Recesss Thread

These estates surrounding the larger cities of the WK include Pax Balthasar, Brie and several other smaller grounds. The barons rule supreme and intent on holding on to their belongings.

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Guido Cercatoro
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Post by Guido Cercatoro »

Ulder

(OOC: I will add a little about Star and Moon once the hunt thread is complete – I am also assuming Elaine concurs with the honeymoon etc :wink: )

Ulder and his men assisted in the defence of the town against the spider attack. Despite losing three men, the group’s actions went a long way towards redeeming the reputation of the group which had been tarnished by the disputes that had broken out upon their arrival. With so much of his recent time beset by conflict, Ulder was only too happy to spend a proper honeymoon with his new wife and he felt much recuperated by the break. Yet, it was not long after he returned that the reason for his journey to Pax was brought into stark relief by the news of his father’s imprisonment and the subsequent necessity to bring his sister and mother to Pax. The two women were settled into a small house which the provost provided at a modest rent.

During Jaym, Ulder began making contacts throughout Pax; he found the leader of the council, Klebb, to be a friendly and approachable sort whom he suspected would be amenable to a more independent Pax. Indeed, many in the business community were of the view that the town would be best run by the Council. The Provost was something of an enigma; he was a charming man, liberal in his views towards pagans and always courteous and pleasant. And yet, he was the chief representative of Oneist rule and the son of a leading noble. Ulder also learnt another surprising fact; the Provost was an expert swordsman.

Ulder recruited twenty new men to the swordmark and the Provost gratefully accepted his offer to provide a degree of security for the refugee camp, for the guards were stretched to the limit by the new influx of refugees. The new recruits were trained and acquired basic fighting skills.

The attempt to contact the Border Estates met with mixed results. The Baroness of Murrelbuck proved most amenable and Ulder sensed she was sympathetic to his cause, offering to send some food supplies to the town which duly arrived; the Baron of Killem’toh also listened with some sympathy but claimed his poor and remote estate could do little to help; Foreno sent a curt reply stating that his son was already assisting in Pax through his duties as Provost, although the Baron would meet Ulder if he wished during the summer festival; Hulmnoy’s daughter replied that her father was too ill to meet with anyone; Sebastain of Brie offered assistance to Pax and after some debate also offered support for much of Ulder’s plans concerning Pax; the meeting was Carbonneau went well and Ulder found he had secured a powerful ally for his cause should the Commander make good with his promises.

Savarak rebuffed Ulder’s attempts to arrange a meeting and there were strong rumours that the young renegade was drawing many to his cause despite his previous accord with the Provost. Then, the day before the summer festival Ulder received a visit from an achadhiel he knew to be close to Savarak. The messenger stated that Savarak was willing to meet on the morning of the opening of the festival at Tuirdhiel’s Tavern.

As the festival approached, Ulder’s plans gathered pace.


(OOC: approved – I will update skills asap)
Guido Cercatoro
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Post by Guido Cercatoro »

Brytan

Brytan’s information gathering activities bore fruit and he learnt much about the activities of various groups within Pax. In addition to the swordmark, there were three groups that were of particular interest. First, there was the group of young achadhiel and adhiel surrounding Savarak. Whilst the former prisoner was rarely seen around town, many of his supporters were agitating behind the scenes building up resentment against the authorities. They were a surprisingly well organised and tight knit group with an increasing following. Second, he received reports that a number of members of the group of “walkers” that had set up camp at the crop circle had slipped into town and spoken to a number of people, most of whom were of a rather dubious nature. Third, he heard reports of a shady group that were recruiting followers in the refugee camp who might be connected in some way with various disappearances within the camp.

The meeting with Ulder went well and soon Brytan was involved in the alliance that had developed between Michel and Ulder. Brytan’s attempts to ensure the Pax Honestus was loyal to Michel met mixed results. He found that around a third of the soldiers were likely to be loyal to Carbonneau and follow his orders whatever they involved; a third were rather indifferent and would probably move whichever way the wind blew; however, a final third were good Dominicans, loyal to the Kingdom and would not be easy to sway for their beliefs had been reinforced by the hostility they received from many pagans in Pax. However, whatever their beliefs most of the soldiers longed to return home and Brytan’s rumours of an invading force reinforced this. He also discovered that the sergeants were extremely loyal to Tamerton who was a popular commanding officer and a professional soldier.

On the eventide of Jygust 29th, Brytan received an intriguing piece of information from one of his contacts. The Baron of Foreno had arrived in town with a troop of around twenty well-armed soldiers. That was perhaps not surprising given the turmoil in the town. However, Brytan’s contact revealed that a trader who had just returned to the town claimed that a further large contingent of Foreno troops and mercenaries were stationed half a days march away in the lower valley, ostensibly involved in training exercises. He had no confirmation other than the report of the trader but, if true, it raised some interesting questions about the motives of the provost’s father…

(OOC: approved - skills will be updated soon)
Last edited by Guido Cercatoro on Thu Aug 21, 2008 10:33 am, edited 1 time in total.
Guido Cercatoro
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Post by Guido Cercatoro »

Michel

Michel’s meetings with Marcel left the soldier still unclear about the true views of the provost. Marcel had a very liberal attitude to pagans and yet would never directly criticise the church or the repression in other areas. Perhaps he felt constrained by his official position or his family ties; or, perhaps he did not trust the Commander enough to reveal his true feelings; or, perhaps he was simply a careful politician. It was impossible to tell. What was clear was that he was a charming, pleasant man who was extremely good company. It was only when the subject of his father was mentioned that his face darkened but he refused to be drawn on the subject.

Tamerton was more straightforward: he was an able, professional solider loyal to the crown and his Commander. A good Oneist but no zealot. It was evident that he did not approve of the repression of pagans but would do his duty to the kingdom, as required. The rest of the legion proved to be a varied bunch; he judged the majority were loyal or would at least tend to go along with his orders even if they conflicted with the wishes of those in authority in the capital. However, a sizeable minority had been soured by their time in Pax and blamed the pagans for keeping them in an isolated outpost. Many of these soldiers also blamed the strange events in Pax including the murder of soldiers at night on the pagan community.

Michel attended a meeting with Ulder and Brytan and plans were hatched that might have a major impact on both the capital and Pax. Michel then departed for the capital to gain information about the new candidate for the throne. Michel’s return to Pax revealed little more information than he already possessed although he obtained a distinct feeling that the Provost was not looking forward to the visit of his father for the summer festival. Upon hearing of the death of his own father, Michel returned to Kings Court before preparing to return to Pax on the 30th Jygust.

(OOC: Approved as far as the Pax part of your recess goes - Danomel will obviously need to deal with the KC part of your recess post and then I will skill.)
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Post by Guido Cercatoro »

Torc

The talks with Lucius went well and a provisional agreement was made for the supply of goods to Pax. Once he had confirmation of the arrangement, Klebb had no difficulty in raising the funds to ensure that a dock was built at the head of the navigable part of the river at the entrance to the Pax valley. The dock should be constructed by the time of the Pax festival in mid-summer.

Torc’s healing and warding skills were in much demand during the Day of the Dark and he acquitted himself well. Many also knew of his activities during the incident at the stone cube and the mage found that he had become almost a figure of legend within the town, receiving bows and polite greetings wherever he went. The downside was that it proved difficult to gain any privacy.

Torc spent much time with Nyrellon and her newly arrived guest, the mage from Selderine, Baltimus. The halfling argued strongly that the defensive runestones surrounding Pax should be destroyed and not repaired as the spirit argued. Unfortunately Baltimus’ powers had not survived his movement forward in time and after a while he became increasingly absent-minded, forgetting much of the past. Nyrellon appeared hesitant unsure as to whether or not to destroy the runes. With the spirit not making any more appearances she decided to postpone a final decision.

Working within the refugee camp was a chastening experience for Torc for many of the new arrivals were half-starved and injured. He assisted where he could and also learnt of the activities of Mara and her group of Father worshippers who provided much sustenance for the refugees. His prayers to the One received no answer. Perhaps the One disapproved of his activities – after all, those in the camp were pagans.

The meetings that he held for the refugees were well attended but they proved to be a disunited group. They were of many races, faiths and social outlooks. Some were attracted by the other groups such as those following Savarak, Ulder’s swordmark or Mara’s group of father followers. Nevertheless, Torc attracted a group of followers who were attracted by his practical message of rebuilding and healing. Chief amongst these was an achadheil named Caelis, a charismatic fellow who wished to build a more permanent community outside the walls of Pax. Nyrellon was too preoccupied to give much advice and help but she did suggest that the mage might want to discuss matters with Mara who was also seeking a peaceful solution to Pax’s problems.

As the festival drew near, Torc prepared his charms for a spectacular show……


(OOC: approved – I will skill asap)
Last edited by Guido Cercatoro on Fri Aug 22, 2008 11:52 am, edited 1 time in total.
Sebastian Beauvais
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Post by Sebastian Beauvais »

OOC: Posted in the Baron Estates for completeness. Official post made in Kings Court recess forum.
--------------------


Sebastian sat at his desk, staring out the window as the last line of scrawled ink dried in the stale summer breeze. With the casement thrown open to accept that meagre relief, the baron was able to see his mare being exercised by the ostler. Sebastian was proud of the fine lines she had, and the way her muscles rippled underneath her glossy coat as she trotted in the courtyard. To think you’d ever care about a horse, he thought with wry humour, subconsciously rubbing his left arm where a fall had snapped the bone the previous yahren. How things changed.

Sebastian’s mind wandered over the past few months, spurred by the reminiscent flavour of his thoughts regarding the mare. How things changed, indeed, he thought with a small snort. Resting his chin on clasped hands, Sebastian played over in his head the events that had cascaded from his visit to Murrelbuck with the vial of curative for Baron Kriesbon. It seemed to him that the slope beneath his feet was tilting ever further, steepened to a point beyond which he could control his movement. The momentum of events was overtaking him, and dragging him along. He hoped he could keep his head above water.

His return to the capital had been quiet, and in secret Sebastian met with a handful of fellow nobles with the news of Kriesbon’s poisoning and near brush with death. Downplaying his own role modestly, Sebastian did not spare the details of Leonius’ plotting and painted the man in a stark and uncompromising light. He roused those he knew looked upon him favourably – Baron Terripin, Joris the Younger, and the Lord Seure. And of course he carried the goodwill of Lady Murrelbuck, who remained at her estate assisting with the Baron’s recovery. With such notable help enlisted, Sebastian then confronted Leonius publicly with the evidence. There was a scene but in the end Leonius was cornered and had no option but to submit to justice. The Regent was deposed, stripped of his power and wealth, and banished from the capital.

As Sebastian had suspected, the stigma of such a public humiliation not only weighed heavily upon Leonius, but also upon his elector Eisenreich. Already no friend of the Duke, Sebastian became an unwilling enemy as Eisenreich’s chances at the throne suddenly took a serious blow. Even the fact that one of his oldest friends had been on the verge of death did not blunt Eisenreich’s anger; the Duke had enough venom to share on both Leonius and Sebastian. Where before a cool breach existed between the two men, now a rift existed.that could not be reconciled.

Uncomfortable with the repercussions of his righteous actions, Sebastian stepped back from politics for a time, hoping the air would cool while he dealt with the mundane aspects of running Brie. The first harvests of wheat were reaped and being readied for shipment, reconstruction continued apace, and trade was once again nearing levels seen only before the orcish invasion. Sebastian even granted his seal to the first casks of Jaym witbier, which was then marketed throughout the region as Baronial Select.

Of course, spending most of his time in the Estates meant Sebastian was close to Cerise. He did not bother being circumspect any longer, he was through with that. His name was good, his actions just, his heart dedicated to the kingdom, and there was no reason he should fear displaying his affection for the Lady Kriesbon. He made several visits to Lady Magdalena’s estate to visit his heart’s desire, officially wooing the golden-haired lass while they all waited for her father to regain his strength. It was a slow process and frustrating in some ways, but it did afford the young couple more time together. And Sebastian was finally able to make more than passing acquaintance with Cerise’s father, hopefully with a positive impression.

Haikan’s enthusiasm helped Sebastian put the darkness of Kings Court politics in perspective, and the baron found himself enjoying his mentoring sessions with the young adhiel. Always eager to learn more and impress, Haikan reminded Sebastian of himself only a few short yahren ago. Had things changed so much that he could not remember wanting to make a difference? To improve the world and make a name for himself in the process? What had happened, that he now hid on his estate and satisfied himself with provincial issues in Brie, like which beer to approve?

In the end it took a visit from an Eastern stranger to goad Sebastian back into action. A man from the Seven Isles had approached the baron, first in writing and then in person, to hold a discussion of great import to all those living in the Estates. And once Ulder Synkaros had presented his arguments and plans, Sebastian found he could not refuse his help. The Captain had drawn back into the light the values Sebastian had once so proudly projected, values now slightly tarnished with the realities of ruling. It embarrassed the baron, and he realized his steps had strayed since his elevation. He was comfortable, lazy, and scared to lose what he had gained, even though it was the steadfast dedication to duty that had enabled all his gains in the first place. That had to change.

In addition to his agreements with Ulder, Sebastian upheld his commitments to Magdalena. He met with Foreno’s son in the capital to discuss what the Baron Estates might accomplish as a united front, especially with the throne still empty. The discussions were not what Sebastian would call successful, in the sense that very little was accomplished. Foreno had taught his children well, and the level of politicking was beyond Sebastian’s capability. He left with no agreements, no commitments, and with a frustrating sense of lost time. It seemed Foreno’s other son, the Provost in Pax, would have to be their contact into the southern baron’s family.

While in the capital Sebastian also had a short meeting with the new Bishop and Regent, Lazos and DeRohm the Elder respectively. He had met the Regent before, and was fairly well-acquainted with his son of course, but the Bishop was unknown to Sebastian. The meeting was short and polite – respectful, Sebastian would describe it later – and though nothing of much import was discussed the young baron came away knowing the Regent held some disturbing news regarding the succession. Sebastian had been unable to drag the specifics out of him, but had been invited to an upcoming meeting to discuss the details. The fate of the kingdom might hang in the balance.

A lack of noise outside the window roused Sebastian from his recollections, and he realized the ostler had retired to the stables with his horse. The wind was still dry and warm, but at least his letter was ready for folding. He read fondly the opening once again, just before creasing the parchment, and imagined with a smile Cerise’s reaction as she read it. He would send the note off to Murrelbuck just before he left for Pax Balthasar to attend the mid-summer festivities, to tide her over until his return. It was a show of goodwill for the people there, who had received aid shipments from Brie ever since Ulder’s warnings. Sebastian hoped the new supplies had eased the strain in the protectorate. He was to meet his fellow barons there as well, a show of solidarity for the Estates and a chance to further plan their role in the new kingdom. And perhaps most importantly he would meet Ulder and Michel and ostensibly usher in a new era, one with a free Pax.

How things changed indeed.
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Guido Cercatoro
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Post by Guido Cercatoro »

Sebastian

(Most of your post is for KC but just one item to cover for Pax).

A few days after Sebastian confirmed his attendance at the summer festival in Pax, he received a missive from the Provost. The letter informed the Baron that accomodation had been arranged for him in the recently built Nobles' Quarters during the festival. A private concert had been arranged for visiting nobles early even'tide on the 30th and the Provost hoped to greet the Baron before this concert.
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Post by Talanwei Fortisse »

~~*Late Chyril*~~

Talanwei returned from the hunt exhausted. Trajan had been remitted to the care of an Achadhiel healer by the name of Shylah Boyd. She did not seem old enough to be a master healer but what she may not have had in skill she made up for with her eagerness to learn. He took most of the rest of Chyril in rest, Ulder being gone with Elaine and aside from the tremors that kept plaguing Pax it seemed peaceful. Talanwei took this time to become better acquainted with Trajan and Shylah. He assisted every so often with getting the shop ready for patients as it had fallen to disuse for some time. In talking with the Legionnaire and the Achadhiel he had learned a little about each. Trajan had been shaken deeply by his ordeals and it seemed that nothing that Talanwei could do in his infrequent visits would break him from the slow downward spiral he seemed embroiled in.

Talanwei was perceptive however and it seemed that Shylah was the one that could help with what was ailing the man beneath the surface. She was there almost all the time and something intangible began to grow between the two. Talanwei made himself scarce for a time and when all seemed to have settled, the Day of Dark came on the final day of Chyril. Talanwei fought alongside Ulder and his men using both his holy blade and his magick to keep the foul creatures at bay. It was a tragedy to be sure, one in which many died and more were injured. His thoughts were immediately to Trajan and Shylah; thankfully it turned out that they were safe from harm. The follower of Illuminatus chided himself for not being there when it happened; Trajan should not have had to fight in his condition.


~*~Jyam~*~

Like he were making up for what he felt a failure to them on the Day of Dark, Talanwei made his visits more frequent to the shop that would come to be known as the Healing Hands. It was a month in which much happened for the Achadhiel. He deepened a friendship that had started in a quite rocky fashion with Trajan and soon Talanwei was teaching him tactics with the blade. In turn the follower of Illuminatus learned to wield a shield. This was something his father had always tried to put in place of his second blade, warning him to always protect himself. Talanwei was rash in those days, now he was learning that to protect others one had to ultimately protect ones self. During this time, he observed Shylah much as well. She was a caring individual that would sacrifice much for the wellbeing of others. This selflessness touched Talanwei in a way he could not describe and he helped her with patients occasionally. His faith served him and the power of his God helped when the Achadhiel healer’s skills were not enough.

As is the nature of watching relationships between others, Talanwei observed what Trajan tried to keep close; namely the feelings that he was developing for Shylah and possibly she for him. The Achadhiel could understand for he found himself beginning to feel similarly. It was a notion he suppressed, pushed deep beneath the surface out of a respect for Shylah...and a sacrifice he made for his friend Trajan. She would likely never know this and it was in the overarching plan probably for the best. Talanwei found after training sessions, he and Trajan would sit and talk when time permitted. The things the Legionnaire had seen and experienced had shaken his faith...perhaps even broken it. Slowly, the would be paladin spoke to the human of his philosophies and the things that drove his life. In this Talanwei found some measure of understanding of himself and even spoke a bit about his faith. Trajan was a man that was growing; formulating ideas, making alliances and finding his own path. Talanwei thought he would be a good addition to the Swordmark but knew that the former Legionnaire would not leave Shylah.

Shylah offered him a place in her shop, part of him ached to accept. It would be a life that would not lead him into conflict and one that a selfish heart would take. It was with a measure of sadness that he declined. Talanwei had a path and it lay in the road Ulder was paving to freedom for these people. The Swordmark was gaining followers slowly but surely. The people of Pax needed this liberty, just in talking to those in the village there were many sympathetic to the cause. It was in mid-Jyam that Talanwei connected with worshippers of the Bright One. After much talk, they imparted a rumor that men in the World's Mouth, part of the colleges there led a secretive sect of Illuminatus worshippers. Intrigued, inspired, the Achadhiel was determined to make contact. Near the end of Jyam he set off for the World's Mouth armed with only his rumor and a vague idea of how to connect. Talanwei was met with a general distaste aimed toward him from the humans that dwelled there. 'Half breed' was a term that was said none too quietly as he looked for signs that would lead him to these men.

It took a lot of asking, which he kept vague in the efforts of not alerting the Purificato to his aim. He had heard stories of their cruelty to 'pagans' and though he felt he could handle himself in a situation, a 'pagan' killing or injuring these men would hardly be tolerated. After it seemed like these men were nothing but rumors or apparitions conjured up by the devout group in Pax, he was approached. The man had him meet in a nondescript room at an inn and his first words were chiding. Talanwei was asked if he was mad, a half-adhiel follower of the Bright One, nosing about in World's Mouth? It was insane...but it showed them how much faith he had. To ensure this man was who he said he was, they spoke much of the faith and there was some mistrust between the two. The man Talanwei met was not high in the small group’s hierarchy and only tentative contact was established. Talanwei spoke to the man of the Day of Dark, to get his theories of what caused such a disaster. Though he did not know much of the specific situation, he did impart some knowledge of the nature of daemonic lore.

Truthfully, not much could be secured by way of assistance and he could not tell these men what Ulder had planned. They were not battle hardened warriors and he felt a connection to the Seven Isles could be fruitful for both parties. Be this as it was, the Achadhiel was overjoyed with this knowledge he had gained. As he left the inn however and on preparing to leave World’s Mouth, Talanwei was accosted by a group of five men. Humans, drunken, and disorderly they tried to goad him into a fight. In trying to remove himself from the situation, it was an offhand comment that drove the men to violence. He told them that ‘may the Bright One light your paths, all of you’ and enraged they laid into him. It was a beating and one that it took much of Talanwei not to reciprocate upon.

He was not entirely sure when or why the men stopped but he sprawled in an alley with the sickly metallic taste of blood in his mouth. Perhaps even in the Mouth, killing a pagan would be frowned upon. Things were not as they once were in the Western Kingdom but some in the Mouth seemed to hold fervently to beliefs that were starting to be resisted against. Bruised, battered but unbroken Talanwei remained and he made his departure from World’s Mouth. It was another experience with Oneists that he added to his overarching view of the group. Intolerance seemed the maxim by which the worshippers of Dominicus lived. It was hard not to lump all that followed the One into this group but having a friend in Trajan gave him some perspective. The close of Jyam rounded on him before he returned to Pax.


*~*Jygust*~*

Brimming with confidence and restless energy he returned to friends and those of the Swordmark. As much as he wished to tell Trajan and Shylah of this, they were not part of the alliance and Ulder had been quite clear on his desire for closed council. It was a hard conversation to avoid especially given Shylah’s nature, as he returned bruised and beaten to the Healing Hands to visit his friends. In a month of growing tension, Talanwei met with Ulder and the other men to polish his sword work and to make himself ready in case violence did indeed erupt. The Achadhiel also took time to hone his inner calm and abilities to focus. As the time passed, his minor injuries mended from his jaunt to the Mouth. His hair had largely grown back during the time and he became acutely aware of how used to not having it to worry about. The scars that the night the Banner burned, those that his body had been spared of, were largely healed as well. It was no time to dwell on things past and on the verge of something so momentous as the liberation of Pax Balthazar, he could concentrate on little else.


[hr]5 *'s New Skill – Shield
1 * to Swords, One-Handed to Apprentice+****
1 * to Demon & Darkness Lore to Apprentice
1 * MoE: Faith to Apprentice+****
2 *’s to Inner Calm to Basic+***[/hr]
[b]Convo Kill Count[/b]: 1
[b]Funny Chat Moments[/b]: 3
Guido Cercatoro
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Post by Guido Cercatoro »

Skills updated for Ulder, Brytan and Torc - I assume Danomel will handle Michel.
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Post by Graves »

Her heart hadn't stopped racing in what seems like yahren, though in reality it had only been a matter of months since she saw the apparition.

D'arcy always professed a belief in the spiritual realm as a way of never truly confronting the reality of her mother's death. On some level, she perhaps even made herself think that the belief was real. However, seeing the ghost inside Ophelia's home had made it all so real. There was no more casual mental dismissal, no more puttering around and idly claiming a desire to contact the spirit of her mother.

It was a reality, it was not a mere possibility any longer.

It was this sudden reality that caused the young Miss Graves to contact Elvira Klebb-- a woman who claimed that she could communicate with ghosts. Although D'arcy was somewhat ashamed to admit her need of help, there was no other choice: she was a mere neophyte, and the possibility of closure was tantalizing. Elvira, for her part, suggested meditating in the forest: a place of high spiritual potential, it was a natural place to begin.

Leaving a letter with the Provost explaining that the Nashorn had recalled her, and that she would return in the future, D'arcy packed her belongings and settled in the forest, finding that living off the land was far less awful than she had anticipated. In some curious way, the more she meditated, it seemed to her that the forest itself became more hospitable: as if it was responding to her prayers. Though of course the notion was dismissed as silly initially, strangers things had happened, and recent events were no exception.

About a month into her journey in the forest, she met a woodsman named Vernon who directed her to a specific clearing as a hotspot for spiritual activity. During her time in the forest, D'arcy had discovered that some of the herbs that grew here naturally were conducive to meditation when combined into a tea, and were also a natural stimulant.

For a long time, she meditated and attempted to probe the spiritual world, drinking endless amounts of the herbal tea and pressing against what she perceived as the barrier that seperated her from the supernatural. It never occured to her that the tea had addictive properties, nor how much time was passing: the days and weeks blurred together in a state of alternatingly euphoric and depressing concentration. With her mother's necklace as a focus point, she hoped to ultimately contact her mother, but in the long run would likely have settled for any sort of contact.

With the end of Jygust fast approaching, D'arcy returned to Pax, a little worse for the wear and with what felt like an eternal hangover-- a month of mental saturnalia will do that-- but determined and hardened by her experiences in the forest. She was startled to learn, on her way into town, of the strange quakes and other happenings rocking the town, and couldn't help but assume a connection to the spiritual. She'd seek an appointment with the Provost (after cleaning up, of course) telling him of her return, and then of course: returning to her wonderfully pink room...

---

((OOC: Meditation: +**** ; Inner Calm: +*** ; Herbal Lore: +***))
[i]But remember when I moved in you,
And the Holy Dove was moving too,
And every breath we drew was Hallelujah...

--- Jeff Buckley - Hallelujah[/i]
Guido Cercatoro
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Post by Guido Cercatoro »

Talanwei

During late Chyril, Talanwei spent most of his time resting and building up his friendship with Shylah and Trajan. On the dreadful day of the dark, the achadhiel fought beside Ulder, helping the town to defend itself from the foul creatures that assailed it. Fortunately, he survived free of injury or the poison that had taken so many lives. In the subsequent month, he spent much time with his friends, sharing his knowledge and expertise and skills. Facing a choice between further development as a healer or the swordmark, Talanwei opted for the second route feeling deeply the need for a liberated Pax.

Talawei’s search for the rumoured sect of Illuminatus worshippers led him to World’s Mouth; it was not a propitious time for his visit for repression and banishment of pagans was once again taking hold of the city. Yet, fortuitously, he was able to make contact with one in the lower ranks of the group. His contact knew little of the group’s hierarchy but was a man of great faith and resolution. The man had nothing to reveal concerning the Day of the Dark but promised to pass on Talanwei’s concerns about events in Pax to others in his group. The fellow was as good as his word. He returned with the news that Talanwei’s information had been of great concern within the sect, who were to send some members of the group to Pax to investigate matters. They would arrive by mid-summer in time for the festival and would contact Talanwei upon their arrival.

Returning to Pax somewhat battered and bruised, the follower of Illuminatus spent the next month honing some of his skills. Then, on the even'tide of the 29th, a note was pushed through the door of Healing Hands. It said simply - we are here - look for the dark red tent in the camp - tomorrow morningtide.

(Approved and skilled)
Last edited by Guido Cercatoro on Wed Sep 03, 2008 11:33 am, edited 1 time in total.
Guido Cercatoro
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Post by Guido Cercatoro »

D'Arcy

The day that she saw the ghostly woman in white had a profound effect on D’Arcy and she fled from the house she shared with Ophelia to find Elvira Klebb who had a reputation of expertise in such matters. Klebb had been remarkably evasive on the subject of the ghost in the White House, indeed perhaps even a little apprehensive. However, perhaps she saw in D’Arcy a like- minded soul, for she gave her much friendly advice, suggesting that a period of meditation and reflection might be a useful first step in developing some of the skills necessary to contact spirits. “When you are ready, come back and seek me out,” were the kindly old woman’s departing words.

D’Arcy found the forest a perfect place for quiet meditation. Apart from the logging mill on the outskirts of the forest and the occasional hunter looking for game, it was a place largely reserved for wild animals. She encountered many birds and small animals and it proved possible for her to survive on a mixture of edible plants, berries and other food within the forest. She also had a strange and growing feeling that the forest found her meditation pleasant, as if it were alive itself and respected her quiet prayer and desire for solitude. For a time, she even thought that she was being watched, catching sight of something moving quietly in nearby bushes. Once she even thought that she snatched a glimpse of a pair of staring eyes, not human, but of some animal appraising her intently.

She had scarcely seen a soul for a full month when she encountered the tall woodsman, Vernon, who proved to have an intimate knowledge of the forest and directed her to a small secluded glade which he argued, without explanation, would be perfect for mediation. It proved to be the case for D’Arcy’s ability to meditate improved significantly in a short period of time. The glade was an almost magical place that she would have never have found without the woodsman’s direction. In the centre was a small, rotten tree stump and to one edge a pool of water, apparently fed and replenished by a hidden spring.

D’Arcy never felt any connection with her mother during her time in the forest; yet she did have two fleeting visions; one disturbing and one puzzling. The disturbing vision was that of a man coming through a large portal and vomiting the contents of his stomach on the ground. As he wiped his face, D’Arcy recognised him – the customer suspected of killing her mother- and the portal was the one in the main street in Pax. The second vision was as reassuring as the first was disturbing. She saw a young stag springing through the forest, playing with glee and energy. It darted a look her way as if acknowledging her presence. And she knew then with certainty, that it was the stag that had been watching her for all this time, perhaps even protecting her….

With the end of Jygust rapidly approaching, she returned to Pax.

(Approved and skilled)
Draydis Quinn D`Anorre
Wolf, Commander Emerald Guard
Posts: 1388
Joined: Fri Feb 07, 2003 4:26 pm
Location: Citadel
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Post by Draydis Quinn D`Anorre »

Late Chyril

Draydis was supposed to go out scouting with several of the youth from Pax to see if they could discover the wolf that had been suspected of killing some people. However, when the youth arrived at the determined meeting place, Draydis never appeared.

In fact, the Emerald Guard Commander was not seen by anybody in Pax from that point forward. There was no sign of Dray whatsoever.

Unknown to the residents or visitors of Pax, the Commander had decided to pack up his things and head deeper into the forest. Something had drawn him there, or perhaps it was something within himself...

He spent his time sleeping during most of the day hours, and hunting at night. For him, the night hours were much more inviting and comfortable. He hunted for whatever food he needed, and had found several springs from which he could get all the water that was necessary.

The Mother had grown quiet. Draydis knew that the task She had given to him was still not complete. However, the adhiel knew that he needed to spend this time in solitude. The Mother seemed to understand, as She made Her presence known on a few occasions. It was not much more than just a warm feeling that His Mother was looking over him.

Every evening and every morning was spent in silent prayer to the Mother. Draydis had developed a ritual for prayer that he followed dutifully. He knew that She was not able to give him the attention that She normally would, but Draydis acknowledged this by giving Her a few hours of his attention throughout the day, and let Her know that however meager his life spirit was in comparison to Her, that She could make use of it as She wished.

Though this time, Draydis felt closer to his Mother, and began to understand more about his faith in Her. He learned of Her ways, and what She expected of her children. This brought a stronger sense of duty to the Commander, as he felt that he was better able to ask Her for help when the need should arise. It was without question that his unshakable faith was now thoroughly anchored throughout his mind, body, and soul.

Vestments [Mother Crone] ~ (add * - to go to Apprentice)

Jyam

During the month of Jyam, Draydis began to explore a greater area of the forest. He encountered many animals, some of which he had never seen before. By trial and error, the adhiel discovered new methods of hunting, but did not find that he was much better than before. One of the methods he noticed is that for some strange reason, he could now smell the animals. It made no sense to the guardsman. There were times before when the Mother had blessed him with enhanced senses, but this was different...this was his own ability to smell naturally.

For some reason though, the animals seemed to stay farther away from the adhiel than they once had. His hunting eventually became successful only because of his skill with the bow, as many shots were taken from over a hundred yards away.

The nights seemed to grow longer, and the shadows became even more enticing. The adhiel began to feel strange, and his body ached most of the time. The pain was not like a wound, but was more dull.

He sometimes thought about the others in Pax and wondered how their investigations were proceeding. At times, Draydis thought about returning to the town to help the others, but he continued to feel as if the time alone in the woods was necessary. He thought about Ulder, Craghley, Thrandil, Raevyn, and the pack of kids that he had recruited to help him with the Mother's task. He decided that they would all still be there when the time was right for his return.

Occasionally, hunters, patrols, and explorers would wander through the woods where he was living. Fortunately, Draydis had hidden all of his gear away within a nearby cave, and he had learned how to better mask his presence, so he was never discovered. When the patrols became routine, the adhiel simply moved to another area that was less traveled.

His daily rituals to the Mother Crone continued, and most of his time was spent in silent meditation, simply listening to the world around him. He remembered the Hunter and the gifts that the Mother said would be his. These thoughts began to spring into his mind more often, as his dreams were filled with a strange creature covered in black fur that moved upright, but looked more feral than anything...

Hiding / Camouflage [Forest] ~ Apprentice (add **** to go to Apprentice +****)

Hunting ~ Basic+*** (add * - to go to Basic +****)

Jygust

Suddenly, the pains erupted into something more terrible than the guardsman had ever experienced. He cried out for the Mother to spare him, but he only heard, "Have faith, my son...I am remaking you."

It made no sense. Only Dray's unwavering faith saved him from insanity. After two weeks of these periods of pain, it was finally gone.

When he next went to the spring to drink, the results of the pain were evident. His face and hands were covered with spots of black fur. Further checking of his body revealed that all of his body was becoming more hairy. It was odd for an adhiel to have hair growth as this, but Dray trusted that the Mother had plans for him. His finger and toe nails had hardened slightly, and were more wolf-like than adhiel. Dray's canine teeth had elongated slightly, and were much pointier than before. His height had increased slightly, and his muscles were much more dense. Unknown to Dray, even his eyes changed, as they now cast a slight yellow reflection during the dark hours of the day.

Dray's new strength helped him in many ways. His bow shots could reach farther, and they hit with greater force. Even his routine conditioning drills showed that the changes in his body had manifested in ways greater than just being more fury. The commander realized that his endurance had improved, as he could run faster and for longer distances than before.

The Mother had told him when he ate the Hunter's heart that he would become a better hunter in time. She, as always, had not failed to live up to Her promises. The Mother had changed him indeed. The Avatar of the Mother had told Draydis long ago that he would be the Champion of the Woods. Perhaps her words were more prophetical than she even knew.

Towards the end of the month, Draydis knew that it was time to return to Pax. His time away had allowed him to become stronger so he could fight whatever it was that was harming the land and keeping the Mother away. He knew that his purpose still remained in this place, which was only echoed one day by the Mother's clear voice. "It is time. Return."

Draydis packed up his things, and headed back towards town. He did not know if Ulder and the others were still around, but time would tell.

Under the cover of night, he entered the town and found a room at the inn. A heavy fur cloak covered most of his features, as he did not want to shock anybody.

Very early the next morning, he sent word that Ulder had a visitor in town that wanted to speak with him. He kept his name unknown for now. Draydis knew that he would likely not be comfortable following Ulder as a member of the Swordmark, but he knew that he appreciated their ideals. He hoped that they could use an ally, and would not turn him away for a lack of promising under oath to be with them. This was not possible for Dray to take an oath to be part of any group or to follow any man....for he followed only the Mother.

Running ~ Basic+* (add **** - to go to Apprentice)
Last edited by Draydis Quinn D`Anorre on Thu Sep 11, 2008 11:56 am, edited 3 times in total.
Raevyn: Serving billions and billions since Sam. 15.

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Guido Cercatoro
Moderator & Coordinator Pax
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Joined: Tue Aug 01, 2006 3:05 pm

Post by Guido Cercatoro »

Draydis spent late Chyril and Jyam in solitude, hunting, praying and sleeping in the Pax forest. The woodland proved to be abundant in game and a number of springs offered cool, fresh water that had run down from the nearby mountains. His skills in hunting and hiding in the forest environment improved markedly and he also felt a greater connection with the Mother.

In Jygust, Dray felt the beginnings of a strange transformation begin to take hold of his body. Patches of hair and fur began to appear over his skin and he sensed that he was taking on some of the features that were akin to a wolf. He sensed the Mother at work, perhaps fulfilling her promise to make him a better hunter but in a way that he could have never imagined. Soon his entire body was covered in short, soft striped fur. As to why the Mother had chosen this path, she never revealed, but Dray soon felt a pull back to Pax: a pull he knew was at the Mother’s instigation. Indeed, he felt sure that his whole experience within the forest was part of the Mother’s design for him…

As he was staring at his new features in the reflected waters of a spring, he sensed a sudden movement in the forest; the face of a young stag flickered into view a short distance away from him. The beast’s eyes held his own for short while and he felt a deep intelligence behind the eyes. The words “Welcome” echoed within Dray’s mind flowed by what appeared to be a warning: “Take care, forest friend; the Wolf of the Dark is no ordinary beast; he brooks no competitor in his domain; the night of midsummer brings danger.” The face vanished as quickly as it had arrived.

He returned to Pax a changed man; cloak wrapped tightly around his body to avoid prying questions, for his new features could not fail to the subject of stares, questions and perhaps even fear…

(OOC: Approved and skilled)
Elaine
Royal Poet
Posts: 1435
Joined: Wed Aug 20, 2003 4:45 pm
Location: Citadel, the palace
Contact:

Post by Elaine »

Late Chyril
It was a double edged sword, to be in a completely new place with it's own unique set of problems, so Elaine quickly found out. On the one hand it was quite refreshing to be out of the insane political game without having to worry about skulking powers in the corridors. On the other hand there was something to be said for dealing with the known instead of the unknown.

Elaine's research had not brought her all the answers yet, although she felt she was coming closer to the initial problem. The feeling of guilt that permeated the very stones themselves was something she could relate to. To make a promise to protect and then to fail, appealed to the ambiguous feelings that lingered about several failed healings, resulting in death.

Many a day was spent in contemplation, wandering the town while trying to get a clear mental map of the place -both physical and ethereal. This proved exceedingly important when all nether broke loose and yet another kind of darkness preyed on the mortals above.

In the aftereffects of that attack, the blind singer did all she could to soothe those that felt the darkness hanging around. Not only did she try to Sing them back to completeness, another part of her wished to understand what they felt, to learn what they had endured to try and complete her research of this town.

It was a welcome respite when Ulder returned for a ten-day honeymoon, time she spent more than gladly with her husband, exchanging stories and theories or simply enjoying each others company.

Yet this moment too ended all too soon when an emergency family visit brought half of Ulder's family to Pax in search of refuge.

Jaym
With her husband once again immersed in the dealings of the town and his family, Elaine spent her time bringing her little garden into bloom. With every disaster that passed, it became more and more clear that next to her bond with the Mother, the young woman needed the equally important skills of mundane healing.

Finding the people to tell her about the herbs was not that hard, as it built on much of what her mother had taught her. It was more difficult to get the hang of physical healing, for now her eyes proved to be more of a hinderance than she'd care to admit.

Soon the Achadhiel found herself falling back on old habits, combining the movements of her hands with a soft reaching out to the mind of those she helped, if only to find out if she was actually treating the right spot!

With the arrival of the strange messengers and their prophecy, her interest was peeked once again. Determined to speak with these people, Elaine tried her utter best to find out what had brought them here, who 'She' was and if this was somehow connected to her search in healing the city itself.

Jygust

With the summer festival nearing, Ulder became more restless, anticipating a big move. It coincided nicely with the mood of the entire town. It became harder and harder to focus on the city itself, with so many minds and feelings permeating the air, yet Elaine persevered, needing this goal to keep her minds of darker things. She had promised the town her help and her help was what she'd give.

With the dark beings gone and the problems slowly taking a more mundane turn, the Achadhiel went in search of the birdsong Seth had described. It was not the birds themselves that were important, so he had said. It was the song. She was supposed to find it and somehow bring it back to the stones.

It still was not entirely clear which stones he had meant, but in the months past Elaine had had quite some time to try and Hear this lost song. Now she felt a more active approach was necessary and she'd go out of the house, humming her way along the streets, trying different tones, melodies, words to see if she got anytihing of a response from the city itself.

She treasured the book, even if she could not read it, hoping that somehow, somewhere an echo lingered that she might build upon to restore the beautiful city's peace of mind.

ooc
Talks and outcome with the Walkers to be determined by the mod :)
New skill: herbalism, please :)
Healing (non magical) + ***
Logical analysis + **
There is so much to see, yet so few willing to.
[i]Jonah Bannon[/i]

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Guido Cercatoro
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Post by Guido Cercatoro »

Elaine

Despite the problems associated with her blindness, the singer soon learnt the basics of herbalism. She found that smell and touch were more than adequate tools for identifying herbs and a friendly herbalist taught her the rudiments of using the most common herbs. Her non-magical healing skills also developed following her efforts treating those who had suffered in the Day of the Dark. Yet, when she touched the minds of some of those who had been poisoned on that day, she felt a residue of something lingering in them; as if the poison had not totally been drawn, even when they were outwardly brought back to full health. Indeed, one or two of her patients appeared to be somewhat unhinged by the experience, mumbling incoherently about the dark in their mind.

Elaine’s encounter with the walkers proved to be an unnerving one. As she approached she heard that the group, who apparently took shifts in walking in a circle, were humming a low melody. However, the tune felt lifeless to her ears; it evoked feelings of emptiness, barren deserts and an absence of life. One walker approached her and then dismissed her in an emotionless voice. “You are not welcome here, singer. Your song is not hers, although it is perhaps closer than you think. The one true Mother is Dark.” And that was all that was said.

Wandering the streets, humming tunes was a generally pleasant experience and helped Elaine learn the layout of the town. However, she felt little response to her singing. Her forays into the aether proved more interesting. She sensed strange forces of energy that she had not encountered before linked to the walls of the town; indeed the walls appeared to be simultaneously there and not there at the same time. It was if they had been “borrowed” from some other time and place where they yearned to return but were anchored around Pax by the strange strands of energy.

Even stranger was the stone cube; she sensed energy arcing from the cube beyond the walls of the town…and the faint echo of the residue of a song emanating from wherever the energy vanished to… and…there was the echo of a similar tune that she had felt when she opened the bird book at a particular page. She was informed that this page was an exquisite painting of a number of white birds circling a stone. The scene suggested motion – the birds were circling the stone and the stone appeared to be moving into the ground. The stone was marked with what may have been letters or symbols but the details were vague as if the painter had merely drawn an impression of the stone rather than the precise details. In the background were the mountains that lay outside the north gate of the town.

(OOC:Post and skills approved – will be updated asap.)
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