Enterance Thread for Galliban Tyren

Galliban Tyren · Post by **Galliban Tyren** » Tue Jun 01, 2004 7:08 pm

"Does not all knowledge, even knowledge most painful to bear, have value? And besides knowledge in and of itself, for what salvation can any mortal hope?" Galliban replied after a moment of thought to the first part of the god's speech. "As for the knowledge I seek in this place, I seek all of the knowledge that you have mentioned. Perhaps, I seek more, but I can make no certain assertation as to the subject of that knowledge, for knowledge begets knowledge, and I have not the knowledge needed to know what more I should learn." Galliban continued in a reverant manner. She was a bit concerned that she might be talking in circles, or that she wasn't being direct enough. Truth be told, it was the only way she could express herself verbally, and she hoped that Illuminatus did not perceive her many layers of thought to be born from insincerity in any way.

rhoddin · Post by **rhoddin** » Thu Jun 03, 2004 1:33 am

Ah, but is knowledge without wisdom something we should aspire too? I have often heard, and seen, the ravages of the educated barbarian.

I think my friend Aurelius would enjoy our conversation my child.

But, as you have chosen to be mt paladin, I do not feel like sharing with him anyway. What, gods being petty, was this really true?

I'm glad we have met, do you remember this place? Can you recall it in your mind? For it the basis to be able to call upon me in your hour of need.

And the voice in her mind was silent. Waiting for Galliban to reply.

Galliban Tyren · Post by **Galliban Tyren** » Thu Jun 03, 2004 3:22 am

OOC: I'm not sure I understand the question, but I'll give it a shot. Since I'm not sure of whether Illuminatus is asking if my character remembers being in that place before, or if she will remember it in the future, I must give a very short, two-fold answer.

IC: "This place feels familiar to me now. I shall not forget it." Galliban replied simply.

rhoddin · Post by **rhoddin** » Tue Jun 08, 2004 6:03 am

Remember it well my child, for it is where you may find me in the future. Your tutors might show you how, but you must recall this place,as it is my residence.

As the voice spoke in her mind, the scene around Galliban dissolved, she had a fleeting view of the wide plaza she stood in surrounded by towering pillars, each simply fluted and made of apparently flwless alabaster, reaching to the very heavens themselves.

The plaza was indeed a circular shape, of some sort of white flagstones, all in all a vision of white on white, of circles inside circles.

Even as she glimpsed this place, it began to dissolve, and she was again surrounded by that column of intense white ligth, rather than suffusing her body, it now seemed to be leaching from her body, not painfully, but steadily.

As the light formed a column around her.

Galliban Tyren · Post by **Galliban Tyren** » Tue Jun 08, 2004 7:40 pm

As she felt the leeching sensation, Galliban realized that the light was leaving her. She began to feel as one slowly waking up from a magnificent dream. She didn't want to leave, but she knew that she return to her own realm. Galliban felt a great sense of loss, but she also felt a sense of hope. Her god had accepted her, and that was all for which she ever asked. Illuminatus was sending her back to the plane of mortal existence, but the plaza where she had stood would remain forever engrained in her memory.

rhoddin · Post by **rhoddin** » Wed Jun 09, 2004 1:21 am

Slowly the light faded, leaving the traces of a phosphorescent circle in the now calm water of the pool in which she stood.

Little seemed to have changed since her experience began, the old lady stood patiently waiting, and her cloths were where she had left them. The water of the pool seemed suddenly cool, as if she had been there for some time.

Galliban Tyren · Post by **Galliban Tyren** » Wed Jun 09, 2004 6:56 am

Galliban stood there for a moment with her eyes closed, in complete silence. She had lost herself in the moment again, and she suddenly realized that she was back on Oracle's Isle. She opened her eyes slowly and looked around, re-orienting herself. Her eyes came back to the old woman.

The look of Galliban's eyes was quite something. They looking as if they belonged to one would had just found a treasure for which they had spent their entire life searching. Did the old woman know what had just happened? She must, or so Galliban thought. She wanted to ask how long she had been gone, but some how that question seemed irrelevant. Galliban simply stood there, naked, with the most amazing look on her face.

rhoddin · Post by **rhoddin** » Tue Jun 15, 2004 2:11 am

A ghost of a smile crossed the old ladies face, and her eyes twinkled with delight as she observed Galliban's expression.

"I perceive you have had most enlightening experience child. They tell me visitng Illuminatus is an interesting experience.

"Come and get dressed, we have some work to do, and a bite to eat first is usually in order." And she made a sweeping gesture towards Gallibans cloths, before moving to stand by a small door Galliban had not previously noticed.

Galliban Tyren · Post by **Galliban Tyren** » Tue Jun 15, 2004 2:41 am

Galliban didn't reply verbally to the old woman, but simply nodded. She turned and waded to the edge of the pool, then stepped out carefully. She then moved to her clothes and started to get dressed. Her leather breeches felt a bit odd against her moist skin.

When she finished dressing, she picked up her pack and walked to the small door that the woman was now standing beside.

rhoddin · Post by **rhoddin** » Fri Jun 18, 2004 5:28 am

As the old lady led Gallibanthrough the small door, the young half breed suddenly found herself confronted by a riotous array of colour and smells, as she surveyed several tables ladden with a variety of fruits, nuts, breads and juices. Several empty plates were in evidence, as well as several assorted chairs scattered around the medium sized room.

"Help yourself my dear, I'm sure there is something to your liking here, I do believe cook has catered for every possibility of the Seven Isles, " and the old lady shook her ancient head smiling at the array of food before them.

"Tell my child," she continued after a flicker or two. "What do you know of those who would serve Illuminatus. Do you know much about their temples, the priests and such like?" Her voice was soft, but firm, as she waited for Galliban to collect both her food and her thoughts.

Galliban Tyren · Post by **Galliban Tyren** » Fri Jun 18, 2004 9:35 am

As soon as the old woman finished her first sentence, Galliban took an empty plate and began to pick out food that was to her liking. She was hungry, and by her guess she hadn't eaten for a day. When the woman had asked her question, Galliban put her plate down on the table and turned to her. She looked her in the eye, in an attempt to show the proper respect. Even though she had not been raised a noble as her mother had, Galliban was at least taught to look people in the eye, not speak with her mouth full, when to bow her head, and what to call people.

"I lived for a short time, by my own reckoning, in Muchislie. It was there that I supported myself as an, for lack of a better term, errand runner for the Holy Church of Odorex. I met many priests. It was there that I first recognized a calling to serve Illuminatus. The Holy Church was a grand place," Galliban said. She suddenly realized that she was getting off track, as her complex web of thoughts sometimes lead her to do, so she brought herself back to the subject at hand. "I know a bit about the temples, the priests, and the like. I do not know nearly enough, though." she continued.

rhoddin · Post by **rhoddin** » Tue Jun 22, 2004 9:55 am

The old lady nodded her head in quiet contemplation. "Ah the land of the Bessnie's. You say you're served at the Holy Church of Oderex, well, I'm afraid you'll finf Illuminatus' Temple on the Isle a bit more modest.

"Although the inhabitants of our temple may be a bit more approachable as well.

"You are also in luck, it is one of the temples that has it's own dormatories, although you are welcome to stay in the communal dormatories if you would prefer?"

Galliban Tyren · Post by **Galliban Tyren** » Wed Jun 23, 2004 2:48 am

"I think that the temple dormatories will just fine, thank you." Galliban replied. She then picked up her plate and went to the opposite side of the table, so that she would face the old woman. She didn't want to be rude, after all. The young half-elf took a seat and began to eat. She sat up straight in her chair and ate in a cordial manner. She was quite hungry, but not being in a crowded room was no excuse to be sloppy.

Finodborn · Post by **Finodborn** » Sat Jun 26, 2004 10:43 am

"Very well. When your hunger and thirst are gone, I shall briefly lead you around the Isle. Then we shall go to the dormitory to arrange your lodgings."

"Do you find anything that suits your needs?" That being said, the lady just stood next to the wall, her back not touching it, waiting for Galliban to finish her meal.

Galliban Tyren · Post by **Galliban Tyren** » Sun Jun 27, 2004 6:40 am

Galliban finished quickly and was ready to look around the Isle. She picked up her pack and stepped over to the old woman.

"Thank you. I am ready to see the Isle, if you will." she said.

Finodborn · Post by **Finodborn** » Mon Jun 28, 2004 4:25 pm

"Let us go then, young lady, for our time is scarce." The woman led the way, and showed her the most important sites in the town. She showed her where the bath house was, the central library, some small parks, and off course various temples. The tour ended at the temple of Illuminatus.

"Well, there is off course much more luscious green surrounding this little town, but already my old joints are protesting, so you'll have to explore that yourself, should you want to. Do mind where you put your feet though, as some parts may be a bit swampy here and there. I will just introduce you to a priest of Illuminatus, and the rest is up to you."

The old woman took the few white marble steps to the temple of The Light One. It was an old and beautiful building, if not very big. Numerous candles lit the central room. Even the arches in the ceiling were bathing in a bright yet almost cosy light. There was a pair of acolytes changing the candles and lighting those that had been blown out. Considering the number of little flames, this could well be a full time job. The many columns, all in the same, veinless white marble made the structure of the temple unclear, as there seemed to be side aisles everywhere, which was unlikely considering the modest size of the building. At the same time, the temple was open and spacious.

Here and there, priests and monks alike were reading or discussing in a soft tone. It didn't take long before one of the priests in wide robes noticed the Lady of the Pool and her companion. The Lady chose to take initiative, not waiting for the man to greet them nor wasting time on formalities herself.

"Hello, Govard. This is a new follower of Illuminatus. She would like to stay in the temple. I leave her to your care. She turned to Galliban. I wish you luck, child. I must go now. You can ask Govard your questions from now on." She didn't await a response, and left the temple.

The priest that had been introduced as Govard reached out to shake her hand. "Welcome, sister. My name is Govard. I am housemaster of our temple dormitories, so it is me who will take care of your practical needs. Please, tell me what your name is, and what has brought you to the Isle, and our temple more specifically."

In the mean while, the man escorted Galliban to a marble bench at the edge of the central room. He had a rather round head, and his tummy shared this shape. He was bald, except for a little bit of snow white hair around his ears. His eyes were bright blue, nearly grey, and looked at the new novice with genuine interest.

Galliban Tyren · Post by **Galliban Tyren** » Mon Jun 28, 2004 9:02 pm

Galliban shook the man's hand firmly then followed him where he lead.

"My name is Galliban Tyren, and I came to this Isle with the intention of becoming a paladin of Illuminatus. I have been a follower of Illuminatus for many years, since I was but a child. That is why I have now chosen to serve Him." she replied to the priest's questions in turn. As they reached the bench, Galliban waited for Govard to sit first.

Finodborn · Post by **Finodborn** » Tue Jun 29, 2004 11:32 am

"By all means, be seated, young lady" insisted Govard. "Tell me, how do you picture life as a paladin of our order? And what skills do you master already that are relevant, do you think? Make no mistake, I am not testing you or something like that, the Pool and Illuminatus himself have done that already. I'm just trying to determine which training you will need."

Galliban Tyren · Post by **Galliban Tyren** » Wed Jun 30, 2004 1:42 am

Galliban nodded respectfully and sat down on the marble bench. She thought in silence for a moment, remembering the conversation hat she had just had with Illuminatus, then answered the priest.

"Truth be told, I have always pictured life as a paladin to be a difficult one, but rewarding. Studying and training, then doing the bidding of Illuminatus and the Temple Order of the Light. I understand that as a paladin, my personal wishes will no longer be primary. I understand also that it will not likely be financially rewarding, but I am nonetheless committed," she said, then paused for a moment. "As for my skills, I have some basic training in hand-to-hand combat. I shall need much training in the way of combat. I am afraid that most of my knowledge is more academic in nature, but still basic." Galliban continued.

Finodborn · Post by **Finodborn** » Fri Jul 02, 2004 3:28 pm

"Oh, but academic knowledge is highly valued here, Galliban Tyren, and an inherent part of every training in this order. Do you have any skills with the sword perhaps? It is normally the standard weapon of our paladins, but there are other teachers that will tell you about that later on. have you any knowledge pertaining meditation?"

"Anyway, perhaps we should arrange your lodgings first. Please follow me." He showed her the way through the temple, which was a bit disorienting. Soon, they arrived at the door that gave way to the dormitories. "Seen the fact that we don't have that many female acolytes, there are no separate dormitories. From a more theological point of view, I could say that illuminatus is the god that connects Mother and Father, and that it would hence be inconsequent to separate them in his house. Our acolytes are supposed to be able to handle this in a mature way. However, to keep things a bit easier, there are separate bath houses though. They are, after all, still in training." He chuckled loudly.

They entered the central room. It was very sober, though it was kind of cosy too. There were light brown carpets of jute on the white walls and the light pine wood floors. A row of beds lined the wall of the room. For each bed, here was a little desk, and many were occupied by students in white that were writing down things, or browsing through big tomes. "Feel free to choose any bed that is free." There were three doors in the room apart from the one they'd entered through. "That one is for the bathroom of the men, and that one is for the woman. The last door leads to the refractory, where we have our meals, and where you can spend your free time.

Any questions for now? I hope you will get to feel at home here, and please let me know of you need anything. It is, after all, my job to take care of those things. before the day is over, I shall let you know what your duties are in this house. Your fellow novices shall be glad to have a new pair of hands to share in the work load."

Galliban Tyren · Post by **Galliban Tyren** » Sat Jul 03, 2004 7:47 pm

"I have no knowledge of the sword, nor of meditation, but I am eager to learn," Galliban replied to the priest's questions, then followed him through the temple. As they approached the dormitories, Galliban listened to Govard's explanation of the living situation, and gave small smile and a small chuckle (it was more like a short, sharp outward breath) for his comments. She had no objection to the co-educational boarding of the acolytes. After all, each was a devout follower of Illuminatus and therefore likely to be preoccupied with study and training, rather than flirtation and sex. Galliban felt very much the same way.

When they entered the dormitories, Galliban surveyed the area and listened to Govard when he told her of the rooms to which each door lead. She turned to Govard before replying to his inquiry of whether she had further questions.

"I have no questions for now," she said, then paused briefly. "Thank you for your hospitable welcome. It is much appreciated." she finished with a respectful bow of the head.

Finodborn · Post by **Finodborn** » Sun Jul 04, 2004 6:24 pm

"If you wish you can leave your luggage here. There is always somebody here to prevent thievery. I believe at present mistress Helen is teaching the beginners at the sword on the terrace. I think I better bring you there then, so I can arrange the roster for your training.

We follow the cycles of the sun when it comes to sleeping and waking, naturally. Therefore, we get more and more hours of sleep now night wins from daylight. Don't get used to it, though, for when the summer comes, you will get less rest.

If you're ready, I'll bring you to the terrace." Govard took her through a confusing series of doors, chambers and hallways till they arrived at a terrace on the second story above the garden. About six novices were trying to imitate the movements of the woman in front of them. They all used wooden swords, probably a good idea, because they made quite a clumsy impression. All were clad in white, but they wore a more comfortable design than the robe Govard and other priests carried around.

"And rest!" The teacher had a surprisingly loud voice considering her very slender built. Her students put the tip of their wooden swords on the floor, and some seemed pretty relieved. "Hello Govard. Do you bring me a new hopeless case?"

"She's a beginner, but I needn't tell you that doesn't mean she has no talent."

"Right. Let's get started then. You can find a sword there. Just do what the others are doing. you'll get more individual attention later."

Galliban Tyren · Post by **Galliban Tyren** » Sun Jul 04, 2004 8:47 pm

Galliban nodded to Govard when he told her that she could leave her luggage here. She did not know which beds were taken and which were not, as it was obvious that not all of the acolytes were present, so she left her pack by the door. Govard had said that there was always someone present to prevent thievery, and Galliban doubted that there were any thieves among the students. Illuminatus surely would not allow into His service those of such low character. Besides, it seemed that one would be rather unintelligent to risk being kicked out of the temple for Galliban's belongings. The only thing of value she owned was her silver pendant, and when she was not wearing it (which was not often) she never let it out of her sight. After all, it was precious to her.

Galliban followed Govard to the terrace where she saw the six novices and the female instructor. As Galliban heard the woman speak, she found it a bit odd that such an authoritative manner belonged to one with a slight build. Of course, Galliban could find no fault with the woman's manner. It was her job to be authoritative.

"Yes, ma'am." she said with a bow of the head in a respectful, but by no means meek, tone when the woman told her what to do. She did as the instructor said and retrieved one of the wooden practice swords, then took her place beside the other students and waitedfor the class to continue.

OOC: I'm not clear one point. Are the students practicing with one-handed swords or larger, two-handed swords.

Finodborn · Post by **Finodborn** » Mon Jul 05, 2004 6:14 pm

OOC: The weapons fall under the category "small swords," yet for the time being, the students are using both hands.

They practiced the same pattern over and over again. High parry, diagonal slash, turn, crouch, parry high, low strike right, high strike left, low parry, stab, turn. The first two times, Galliban couldn't follow, because she hadn't memorized the sequence yet. The two subsequent times, she could be led to believe to think she got the hang of it already.

Then the instructor started yelling remarks. "Don't move your shoulders, you'll lose control over your blade!" "Smooth movements, SMOOTH, you clumsy gits!" "Keep the blade in the right angle, for crying out loud!"

By the time all of the students were totally soaked in their own sweat, the teacher let the two girls and four boys go rest on their beds. "And please bathe first, so you don't mess up your sheets and your stench stays bearable! You, new one! If you want, you can have some private lessons now. Or you can go with the others, it's up to you." Galliban's fellow students threw their wooden swords on a heap, and left the terrace while breathing heavily.

Galliban Tyren · Post by **Galliban Tyren** » Mon Jul 05, 2004 7:55 pm

Galliban had to take a moment to catch her breath. She took up straight and attempted to calm her breathing, as she innately carried herself with too much grace to double-over and pant heavily. Truth be told, the workout she had just been put through seemed to merit such an action, but Galliban still attempted to handle it in the most dignified manner possible. She was in very good physical condition, and she seemed glad of it at that point.

When the young half-elf had caught her breath, she approached the instructor.

"If you will teach, then I will learn." she said in an Elvish-accented Human tongue.

Tazlure

Enterance Thread for Galliban Tyren

Hey ho! I'll be taking over from Rhoddin for a burn...