GM Post:
(I apparently left my brain in the gym, so I'm going to just sketch out where everyone is - feel free to
add, or pick a place to start or whatever. I figure HD and MZ will give us more of an idea of what's
going through Teryn's mind, as the character was kind of jointly created there...
Side Note: I feel like I've started this three times, and it's got all the subtlety and grace of "See Jane
run. Run, Jane, Run." So... I beg your indulgence this evening.)
The trip back to the castle was uneventful. Aside of the normal follies that befall heroes, slipped
horseshoes, tasteless rations, cold nights, and merciless shifts of keeping watch - the group ran into
no resistance getting back to safety. Whatever guards had gone out on Lyra's orders had either seen
or heard of the attack on the camp, and had run for it - this fact, if brought up with Lyra, would net
nothing more than a "They did what was right by them, they owe me no fealty."
There was some pomp and circumstance upon Shanen's return, the Nobleman being overjoyed to
see his son again. Lyra was almost immediately taken to one of the towers, and locked inside. She
was bound with stocks around her wrists and neck, preventing her from formulating any sort of ill
conceived escape plan... as well as being horribly uncomfortable.
Teryn ordered her public execution scheduled the very next day - and scheduled it for noon, to make
it a convenient time for the town to show up, if they should choose. Death at the hangman's noose.
There was nothing for Lyra to do, but wait.
Alaric:
The journey was long and fraught with perils for Alaric, though nobody else seemed to notice. The
Fade pushed tore away at his defenses with frightening power and precision. Was it just being in
within nature? He began to wonder during the journey. Or could it be the Blight causing this? Or
could it be me? The Elven Mage does not seem to be affected with this burden. Why? Alaric kept
these thoughts to himself. He wanted to talk to the Elven Mage about this. Or maybe urge the party
to move faster. But, he did not wish to risk another upbraiding from the Teryn's favored son. So he
abided the Fade's encroachment with stoic reticence.
Alaric breathed a sigh of relief when Hamelton Keep came into sight. The sun peeked out just over
the treeline, illuminating the pearl-white towers. He squinted, the light hurt his eyes badly.
Fortunately, shouts from the the Teryn's scouts were more than enough to tell the group of
adventurers that there were spotted and they would receive an escort to the Keep. Alaric turned
toward Lord Shanen. His black strands of his silky straight hair were tangled with branches and
other small leaves.
"My Lord," Alaric spoke to the Teryn's favored son in hushed tones. "By your leave, I must be going.
My existence must remain a myth to His Eternal Grace's subjects. The Templars cannot know how
your father hid me away from them. I must not be seen."
Alaric slipped away into the all concealing forest as the Teyrn's scouts arrived on the scene. His
ashened gray robes blended into the surrounding shrubbery. He made his way through the bushes
and trees, avoiding the main roads as much as he could. Alaric was lucky that the attention of the
Teryn's rangers and guards were on Lord Shanen, as prowling was not one of his specialties. Nor
was moving silently. Nor was avoiding random branches that laid in his path. Nor was not kicking
sleeping hounds in his way. In other words, Alaric was making more than enough noise to alert
every guard from the Teryn's territory.
Alaric's face darkened as he emerged from the forest. He should have been caught. It was an
unforgivable slip up. No more than the Teryn's favored son being kidnapped, though. He made a
mental note to speak with His Eternal Grace about this later today. Alaric moved quickly to the
Keep. There was much he wanted to do before the night fell. The first thing was to bathe and change
his robes.
Shanen:
Shanen left it late to visit her in the tower, the light was fading and the lamps along the wall were
already burning, the shadows slowly dancing on the stone surface. He shooed the guard away
politley, insisting that the tightly bound prisoner would be of no danger to him.
"I can ask him for mercy. He'll grant it. It's my decision after all. What would you have me do
Queen?" He asks by way of greeting. As he does so he goes over to the small table by the cell window
and begins to to prepare what was left of the burned documents grabbed from Lyra's tent.
He turns back to the prisoner and wordlessly produces a key from his tunic, unlocking her restraints
before turning back toward the paper.
"Will you indulge me. I know these scrolls were important to you. I wager it was why you and your
band kidnapped me in the first place. So, if you wish to depart this world tomorrow please satisfy my
curiosity before you do so."
GM Post:
Lyra was seated on the floor, leaning back against the wall to try and take some of the weight of the
stocks off her shoulders. Her armor and weapons had been, understandably, taken when she was
imprisoned. A robe of simple cloth had been given to her to wear. She looked up as Shanen entered,
frowning at him.
"Came to gloat, Highness?" She asked in a low voice.
"I can ask him for mercy. He'll grant it. It's my decision after all. What would you have me do
Queen?" Shanen said to her. He walked to a small table in her cell and produced the charred
remnants of her notes. She watched him, but said nothing. She was trying to hold onto the mask of
indifference that she was currently wearing.
To her surprise, he came to her side and produced a key. Slowly, he knelt beside her, and unlocked
the stocks from her neck and wrists. She leaned forward when it was unlatched, and dropped the
heavy wood and metal from her body, ducking her head so it would just fall free. She stayed leaned
forward, breathing, letting the soreness and pain from her neck and shoulders abate before she tried
to sit up. For once, she didn't care that she had a look of weakness and submission, she was
exhausted - stocks were meant to be torture, and they were.
"Will you indulge me?" Shanen shook her from her recovery. His voice was full of both pride, and
curiosity. "I know these scrolls were important to you. I wager it was why you and your band
kidnapped me in the first place. So, if you wish to depart this world tomorrow please satisfy my
curiosity before you do so."
"I have no proof you would save my life, even if I did tell you what this was all about." Lyra stood
slowly, rubbing her shoulders with her hands. She walked over to the table, and sat down across
from him. "I have no reason to trust you, as you have no reason to trust me. You're taking a great
risk, freeing me from the stocks... and you have no reason to save my life."
The flesh where the stocks had been sitting was red and slightly bruised, the skin where her wrists
met her hands had a similar treatment. Despite being in a cheap robe, and having the marks of her
torture, Lyra managed to sit up straight, and meet Shanen's eyes with the barest touch of a frown.
Her expression showed her lack of trust, but none of what she was feeling.
"Given what I've just said... why are you here?"
Alaric:
Alaric spent most of the day within the confines of his personal room at Hamelton's Keep pouring
over the volumes of tomes he acquired from the Circle of Magi all those decades ago. The tomes
were stored deep within the tower's voluminous archives, lost and forgotten to the mists of time.
Alaric thought about all of this while he studied the text for any clue on why the Fade was pressing
against the boundaries of this dimension so aggressively. He found no answers, no solace for his
troubles. He ceased his research to prepare for his meeting with his Lord Teryn that evening. His
master wanted to learn about what occurred. He spoke with his favored son already. Now he wanted
to have audience with his Court Mage and Adviser.
Alaric emerged from his room as the sun disappeared from the horizon, painting the azure sky blood
red. He bathed and smelled of fragrances and soap. His straight raven black hair was parted in the
middle and fell to both sides of his ruggedly handsome face. He did not have time to shave for the
past few days, giving his face a five o'clock shadow. Aivar wore his finest red dress robe, lined with
gold and silver embroidering displaying ancient magical combat arenas. He gripped his dragon-bone
staff for support, moving down the densely populated hallway, moving towards the private audience
chamber.
He passed by one open room and made the mistake of turning his head. Within the room was a
vision of loveliness unlike any he seen for many decades. A fellow user of the craft. The Elven
Maiden. Alaric could sense how the tapistry of the craft danced around with her every movement.
She easily wielded as much power as he, at least had the potential for it. Maybe more so. He paused
to look in.
His Eternal Grace can wait for a few minutes, he thought to himself.
Alaric knocked against her open door with his staff.
"Miss," he began. "I, your humble servant, wishes to make sure you are comfortable with your stay
in this Keep. If there's anything that can be done to make your stay more enjoyable, please ask."
Shanen:
"You're taking a great risk, freeing me from the stocks... and you have no reason to save my life."
That made him chuckle. "Well Queen, this time I'm not dulled by sleep like out first encounter in my
chamber. I have no doubt a confrontation between ourselves would go down differently this time."
He pauses to glance at her expression. Those eyes, definat as always. He admired that.
"You're right of course." He continued, "I have no reason to save your life. You did treat me well at
your camp but then I was a guest and only there because you knocked me out and kidnapped me. It
doesn't quite balance well with the crime itself, although it was somewhat appreciated."
He waited for her to speak and she did, asking why he was here although he felt it may have been
obvious.
"These maps and documents. You may recall what I said in your tent. I am more suited to the life on
an adventurer than a Nobleman at Court. I have seen and done more than most in their lifetimes I
have traveled, fought, killed, loved, kissed, drank, slept and shat over this entire continent and
further."
"And I want to know, what you were looking for. You seem like the sensible sort. The kidnapping of
a Teryn's son give suggestion to a particular motive, for a particular cause. I want to know what you
risked so much for."
GM Post:
"I want to know what you risked so much for."
"My estimation of the risk paled in comparison to what actually occurred. I might have chosen a
different target had I known about the Mage. I certainly would have hired on magical help." Lyra
admits. She stared down at the charred paperwork, pleased enough that her plan to obliterate her
motive had worked. Though it seemed a shame to let her Grail Quest go undone... When they killed
her, the quest would die with her.
"It doesn't matter now what I sought." Lyra said finally - a hint of sorrow crept into her tone. She
looked back up to Shanen. "Telling you would provide you no incentive to keep me alive... and I will
not stoop to begging for my life. Your father can hang me tomorrow, and I will die as I lived - by my
own terms, and for my own reasons."
Shanen:
"Telling you would provide you no incentive to keep me alive... and I will not stoop to begging for my
life. Your father can hang me tomorrow, and I will die as I lived - by my own terms, and for my own
reasons."
"That's true." Shanen admitted. "But if the prize you were looking for was worth the risk I'd need an
able guide to accompany me. Someone who was familiar with the details and plans that such an
expedition would occour."
He paused, letting his meaning of his words sink in.
"You were after something.....something...special." He managed finally. "And I'm not talking about
money."
The young noble pauses again to read her reactions.
"I have no need for tyou to beg Queen; just to be truthful. I ask nothing more."
Amuria:
Amuria stood in the room, arms crossed as she leaned against a far wall. Fabian was still keeping
watch and for now, she was alone with he thoughts. Anyone who knew her was aware of the fact that
the longer she stewed, the madder she got. She was snapped out of her thoughts by a knock coming
from her doorway. Her earrings jingled as she turned her head softly to the doorway. Her long
Amaranth hair trailing down the length of her flowing garments.
"Miss," he began. "I, your humble servant, wishes to make sure you are comfortable with your stay
in this Keep. If there's anything that can be done to make your stay more enjoyable, please ask."
A smile formed on her lips, someone had actually gone out of their way to see that she was
comfortable. She eyed the handsome mage a moment before speaking. "Thank you, kind sir.", She
then took a few steps forward to introduce herself. "My name is Amuria. It is a pleasure to meet
someone else of the craft.", She curtsied.
Alaric:
"Thank you, kind sir," the Elven Mage responded, taking a few steps toward Alaric with confidence
few others would show towards him. "My name is Amuria. It is a pleasure to meet someone else of
the craft."
She curtsied.
Alaric bowed deeply in response, arms outstretched, letting one foot trail backwards. He raised
himself up to a standing position using his dragon-bone staff before responding. He smiled at her.
"I am called Alaric Magus," he replied with a cool, yet friendly, tone. "It has been decades since I
have spoken to someone else of the craft. It is.......a pleasure to make your acquintance, Amuria."
He paused for a moment, considering something before continuing.
"I was lead to understand the Dalish tend not to adventure past their borders. To what am I owed
this unique honor of your acquaintance?"
Amuria:
"Fabian, the other Dalish and I, left our camp to go adventuring for a while. I was the first to the
Keeper, my mother. Who made us promise to one day return." She replied. She paused a moment,
then motioned inside her room. "Would you like to come in?", She invited, walking over and pulling
out a seat on the small table. It was rare for her to meet someone else of the craft that was actually
polite to her.
Alaric:
For the first time in probably five decades, a genuine smile crept across Alaric's face. He walked
towards the seat Amuria pulled out for him, the only sound heard was the striking of his staff against
the ground. He sat down in the seat and observed her sitting across from him.
"Being a First is quite a responsibility," Alaric spoke, sounding impressed. "I share similar
responsibilities with His Grace, Teryn Hamelton by advising him on matters of the state and magic.
Though my responsibilities surely pale before yours, Amuria."
He makes a sweeping gesture to the window next to the table, overlooking the courtyard.
"Allow me to be the first to welcome you to Teryn Hamelton's domain. All are treated fairly and
equally under the rule of law. The Templar Order does not hold much sway here. His Grace alerts
me when they arrive, giving me time to collect my belongs and hide. We both share a distaste for
their blind use of power to repress those who have done nothing wrong but be born. You should find
your stay here very agreeable."
GM Post:
"I have no need for you to beg Queen; just to be truthful. I ask nothing more."
"I was seeking an object... its applications are numerous and mostly unknown. Why I wanted it, and
what it would mean for me are not for you to know... what you will be interested in, is the fact that
the object can supposedly push back the Darkspawn when in the right hands. Any kingdom that
owned it would be much safer.
"Very little is known of it... though legends tell that it is some sort of crystalline structure, and it is
not of this world. It goes by many names, depending on the local legend. Though my favorite name
for it was 'The Eye of Time'. I imagine it to be some sort of mystic staff perhaps, though even I'm not
sure. What I had, the remnants of which are in front of you, amounted to nothing more than a
collection of sightings, legends, and local myths that pointed to where the object could be located.
The journey is far, and requires travel over an ocean, which is not cheap. I anticipated at minimum 4
months... but most of it would be through untamed territory, and if my men and I got lost, there
would be additional time." Lyra took a breath after that, leaning back. "So, there it is. That is what I
was after."
Amuria:
Amuria took a few steps before sitting in her chair across from him, brushing her delicate garments
under her legs as she sat down.
"This Lord Teryn must be quite the wise ruler with you at his side." She paused a moment, looking
out the window. It was quite a lovely view, she couldn't help but smile a moment at the sights before
turning back to Alaric. "I can be sure my responsibilities are no greater than yours."
"Templars ...", She sighed. "Why doesn't anyone have respect for the craft? Having the gift to use
magic is quite a responsibility. It must be treated as such." She nodded. "Being a first, we are taught
from birth to respect the craft. Of course, I can only speak for my own clan."
Alaric:
Alaric stared out the window, admiring the view. A warm breeze comes through the window,
blowing through Alaric's hair. He heard Amuria's jewelry jingle in the wind. He smiled and turned
back to her.
"After I fled the Circle," Alaric spoke softly to her, removing the cold edge ever present in his voice.
"The Teryn's father took in. He knew what the Templars were like. So many Mages living in fear for
their lives for the sin of being alive. Some Mages looked to the path of Blood Magic to free
themselves of the bonds placed upon them. A path of foolishness. I refused that path."
He paused, shuddering slightly before continuing.
"They shared no respect for the craft. Hardly any Mage at the Circle did. Weaving spells around
freely. Possessing the skill does not mean one can freely use it. It takes time and study to truly
understand how to manipulate the threads of power. It was why I barely cast during the attempt to
free the Teryn's favored son.
My path was of White Necromancy. The path of Philosophy. Wisdom. Studying the mysteries of life.
The Hamelton line gave me that freedom in return for my loyalty. They are good, fair, and just.
What is your path?"
Amuria:
"Path ...", Amuria pondered a moment, her sea glass eyes scanning the room for any sense of
inspiration. "My entire life I was trained to be just, to be loyal, and to respect each creature, person,
mage, elf, and most importantly the craft.", She drew a circle on the table with her finger, letting her
mind rest on the subject.
"Being a first meant that I would eventually be the keeper. The spiritual leader to the clan. Being
trained as a mage, being gifted with power, makes me feel as if it is my duty to protect those who can
not protect themselves." She remembered back to the time where she had saved a young child and
his grandmother from cougars when she was younger. "Like I said, I feel it as a great responsibility."
"As for a path ...", She continued. "I do not yet have one. As I am fresh on my own path and free
from the constraints of a camp." She then looked back at Alaric. "Perhaps, you could help me find
my path. As a fellow mage, your opinion holds weight in my eyes." A soft smile crossed her lips.
Alaric:
Alaric considers what Amuria asked, stroking his chin thoughtfully. A fully trained magic user,
ready to pick her own path, he mused silently. Dare I suggest the festival? It is dangerous, but it
could help her. After a moment of silence, Alaric nodded to her. His hazel eyes locked with hers, not
to stare her down, but to examine her spirit.
"I remember how I found my path," Alaric began. "The Ritual of the Harvest Moon. A time to honor
the moon and stars for their gifts and power. They revealed my future, showing me the path...."
Alaric's voice trailed off, not finishing his sentence out loud, rather completing it in his powerful
mind. That was already laid out for me, as magic offers no freedoms. Only imprisonment. The cost
is too high, Amuria. Don't do it. If I could do it again, I would be a simple farmer, staying away
from the Circle and everything else. He shook those thoughts from his head, appearing only in deep
thought.
Alaric continued, sounding casual, friendly. "It may do the same for you. If your betrothed knows
how to play an instrument, I still possess the parchments with how to play and sing the songs while
we dance, pray, worship, and honor the heavens."
Amuria:
"The Ritual of the Harvest Moon?", She thought a moment. B-Betrothed? Fabian has never even
mentioned ... Oh what the hell.She shook the thoughts from her head. "Fabian can play a lute,
though he hasn't played in a while and may hit a few sour notes.", She said, giggling a little.
"Though, I am not sure.", She leaned forward, propping her head on her hands. "Please, tell me
more."
Alaric:
Alaric looked away from her for a moment and towards the courtyard, considering how to explain
the ritual to her. His eyes moved across the area, watching the Teryn's personal guard train as well
as admiring the skill the gardeners maintaining the Teryn's personal flower garden. His head turned
back to her and leaned back in his seat.
"I'm uncertain of how many rituals you have partaken in," Alaric carefully stated. "Though I would
imagine as the First, you would have participated in a lot. So if I cover details you already know, I
beg you take no offense."
He paused and placed his white dragon-bone staff against the wall and shifted in his seat, making
himself more comfortable before continuing.
"The Ritual of the Harvest Moon occurs on the night of the Autumn Equinox, when balance and
order reigns throughout the mystical dimensions. Every plane sits in conjunction with every other.
All hold equal sway. All speak with equal voice. All share their power equally."
He gestures to the window.
"The ritual celebrates the entire cosmological order, the good and the bad, order and chaos. For one
night, it hangs in perfect balance. We begin in meditation, allowing the threads of magic forged
during the crucible of creation to flow through us. This act will prepare us by opening our souls, our
very kismet, to the entire cosmos. After that, the music will call representatives of every plane to us.
The ritual occurs naturally after that. We have to let the cosmological order of existence guide our
movements. There is danger to it, though. Once the ritual begins, it must be seen to completion. Do
not resist the spirits. Let them work through you. You will know what to do during the ritual as they
will guide you. If you somehow try to resist it, you break the ritual and you die."
His look is serious, but it is clear in his intonations that he's telling her everything that she probably
already knows anyways. There is an intrinsic danger to the craft. He wait for her response, folding
his hands on the table.
Amuria:
"That sounds dangerous ... And like a serious commitment.", Amuria couldn't help but bite one of
her nails. "I have only been in a few dangerous rituals. Most of which were when I was much
younger. They were usually to test my magic and see how powerful I was. Though, with my mother's
love for me, I knew I was never in any real danger.", Though she had to admit, she was a daredevil.
Maybe not leaping off high objects like Fabian, but she was actually considering going through with
the ritual.
"Well ...", She began once more, sitting up straight again. "How long do I have to decide?"
GM Post:
A gentle warm breeze blew through the window, brushing against his long dark hair. Alaric's hazel
eyes moves back and forth across Amuria's lovely face, reading her expression and aura. His
handsome face becomes somber. His voice quiet. His tone serious.
"The first rule of magic is the oldest, therefore the most true. A mage is only as strong as they allow
themselves to be."
He pushed a few stray strands of hair out of his face with his fingers. A notable thing about Alaric
was how plain he was. He did not dress himself in jewelry like many of the craft did. His fingers were
bare, as was his neck. It reflected his personality and magical style. Simple. Direct.
Efficient.
"The cosmos comes into alignment in about six hours," he continued. "Just be ready for it, if you do
decide to partake in it. If you do not, you are welcome to observe."
Amuria:
That sounds dangerous, I've never been one to release control of my body to people ... Or in this
case, spirits. And Fabian, what will he think of having to play the lute while his ... His ... I don't
even know what I am to him. Betrothed? Gets taken over by spirits. Although, I want to be the best
I can be. My mother would want me to find the right Magic path for me. I never ... I never thought
of myself before. I need to do this for me. Once Amuria, once for you. "I wish to participate.",
Amuria finally answered.
Alaric:
Alaric sat in silence, observing Amuria. She was lost in thought, though the little motions she made
with her head and body caused an intoxicating jingle to fill the air. The music it created was like an
enchantment. Her spells are subtle. They aren't woven. They aer lived. Her mother taught her
well. He looked down towards the gold and silver embroidering on his red dress robe to distract
himself from her. He studied how the sunlight reflected off of the designs, making it sparkle.
Alaric heard her respond in a commanding tone. "I wish to participate." He look up and towards
her.
"I would recommend preparing yourself, Amuria. Perhaps this will not exhaust you, as your mother
had you participate in several rituals already. But it is better to be safe...."
Alaric's voice trailed off as his eyes shifted toward the sun.
"I beg your forgiveness, but I must be going. His Eternal Grace, the Teryn, expects me at his
personal meeting hall in five minutes."
He looked back at her apologetically, continuing to speak.
"I will have the parchments delivered to your betrothed after the meeting as well as have directions
delivered to you on where the ritual will occur."
He rises to his feet (I assume Amuria will get up too) and bows deeply to her before turning and
leaving.
Shanen:
Shanen kept his expression neutral as the reason and cause of his kidnapping were put in front of
him. When Lyra finished he began to slowly pace around the room.
'The Eye of Time'. He says aloud after a pause. 'The Eye of Time'. He says again as if weighing up the
words. "And you say it's an object that can push the Darkspawn back?" The question did not need an
answer, the Queen had clearly said so already.
"Yes, any man who found such an artifact would have his name known throughout the Kingdom,
assuming it's more than just a tall tale, that is." The noble quietly mused to himself.
"Tell me this Queen. Do you believe in its existence?" Shanen asked as he took a seat by the small
table "If we were to look for it, could it be found? In fact, here's a better question for you; would you
be able to convince my Father of its existence? Doing so would mean your life would be saved and
there would be no need to beg."
GM Post:
"Tell me this Queen. Do you believe in its existence?" Shanen asked as he took a seat by the small
table "If we were to look for it, could it be found? In fact, here's a better question for you; would you
be able to convince my Father of its existence? Doing so would mean your life would be saved and
there would be no need to beg."
Lyra looked over at Shanen with a raised eyebrow. She gave him a humorless laugh. "Highness... Do
you really think I would have gone to all the trouble of selecting you as a kidnap victim if I didn't
believe in the existence of the Eye of Time? I assure you, my time, planning, and resources are more
valuable than a hunch.
"That said - I have no interest in convincing your father of the existence of the Eye of Time. I burned
those notes for a reason, Highness. That artifact was my obsession, and I will see no one find it
without me. Since its disappearance from history, no one has gotten as close as I have to finding it.
Those notes represent more than half a decade of back alley deals, bribes, and careful hunting. What
makes you think I'll just give you that information and let you go off to find my treasure?"
Shanen:
"What makes you think I'll just give you that information and let you go off to find my treasure?"
"Your life and then your freedom if it is found." Shanen answered in an instant. "Don't you see what
I'm proposing? That you join me and together we go in search of this 'Eye.' I can create my own
name, be known as more than simply the son of a Teryn and you.....can do whatever it is that
motivates you. Money, I presume."
GM Post:
"You would trust me to be a part of your crew?" Lyra asks, laughter in her voice. "I don't know if it's
arrogance, desperation or naivete that drives you - but you have to imagine your father will have a
few complaints about you allowing your kidnapper to run free in your envoy. And I'm sure your
Mage friend would rather torture me for my information than allow me to go with you... he's not
exactly a puritan you know."
Shanen:
"You are my Prisoner." He says standing up again. "My Father is a wise man, he sees the sense in
having a wider and longer view. If this artifact is real and does what you say, then the whole
Kingdom will benefit and all it will have cost him is a criminal from his dungeons." Shanen now
stands in front of Lyra.
"As for Alaric, he should be of no concern. He is my Father's man and serves the family. I have told
him to leave you be and so he shall."
GM Post:
Lyra surveyed Shanen as if seeing him for the first time. "Hearts such as yours are rare among the
upper class, Highness. So optimistic, so pure." She raises her hand up, waving it flippantly. "Go
ahead, tell your father and the Mage your plan. See what they say. Hell, if you can get them to agree
to let me guide you on your path of glory - then I agree to your proposal, and I swear that I will not
try to escape or lead you astray during our mission to the artifact. But do not be surprised if they
refuse."
Lyra stood, pacing the floor in the small cell - mostly to get away from Shanen, who was far too close
for her comfort. Laughter was still in her voice, though the sound was still humorless and harsh. "I
think it's more likely that your father will tell you this was all a ploy, a misdirection to get you to
spare my life. That you can't trust me... and he would be right on that front. The Mage will tell you
that there are other means of getting information from me, other means that will ensure that I am
telling you the truth. Means not on my playing field, means I cannot control...
"Lest we not forget also... you are Teryn's son. What if your father overrules your decision? Could
you spare me then?" Lyra turned back to look at him.
Shanen:
"No."
The answer was simple and the truth. "But we can try."
GM Post:
Lyra nodded, accepting that answer for truth. She walked to the small window, looking out to predictably - the gallows. She stared at the noose for a moment, really taking in what it represented,
and what it meant to her. In that moment, she felt a strange calm. Acceptance. "Your... optimism is a
trait to be admired, Highness. But... I acknowledge my death. I was caught. I will not cry, I will not
scream, I will not lament. It was a life, and it was mine..."
She was silent then for a long moment, then, "All things now being equal - I sincerely hope you find
your glory, and I believe you have the drive to do so. Do not let that drive ruin you. Ambition can
ruin the hearts of even the most pure."
Shanen:
"Well the glory cannot be found without knowing where to find it. If you die so does my search for
the Eye." He gives her a smile. "You are not afraid and you show no false bravado about your
possible fate. That's to be admired. But for now, we shall wait and see. Like I said my Father is a
sensible man."
GM Post:
"Well, I suppose you had better get to it then. You have less than 24 hours to decide my fate." She
pushed off from the wall and headed back to the stocks, where she was seated before. She sat down
on the floor, and took a moment to arrange her robe as though she had just taken a seat at a dining
table to enjoy a five course meal. She looked up at Shanen expectantly, knowing he would need to
ensure she was locked secure before leaving.
To her surprise, Shanen simply nodded once and started for the door with purpose in his step. He
bypassed locking her up entirely. Her eyes tracked him for the whole movement, watching him walk
to the door and open it.
"Shanen..." She said quickly, using his real name to catch his attention. He paused to look at her,
hand on the door handle. "I... just want to say thank you. You have no reason to offer me kindness.
I... appreciate..." Her words faltered slightly, and she offered him a bit of a smirk - the closest thing
he might see to a smile. "Well, anyway. Thank you."
Alaric:
Alaric emerged from Amuria's room with his robes flowing around him like living liquid, churning
and moving chaotically from unseen forces. He griped his white dragonbone staff in his right hand
tightly, leaving against it for support. His hazel eyes lacked warmth and life; they stared vacantly
forward as he moved through the halls toward His Eternal Grace's personal meeting chamber. He
channeled necromantic potency from the surrounding area. There was a surplus in the environment
because of the Blight. He merely acted as a filter to capture it. His meeting with Amuria, and being
in her presence, reminded him to prepare for the coming trials and refresh his own soul with death.
He paused in front of an ornately decorated solid oak door. Engravings within the door was
dedicated to the many triumphs of the Hamelton lineage. Alaric paid it no heed. The necromantic
energies rapidly abated around him, normalizing the environment. He did it for the comfort of his
Lord and Master more than anything else. Alaric keenly understood what his unchecked aura did to
others and would not to that to the his Lord. He shut his eyes, reaching for the handle of the door.
The natural coldness of the iron handle met the deathly chill of his hand. Alaric pushed the door
open, opening his eyes to the handle...watching it frost over from his touch. He felt nothing about it.
His Eternal Grace's noble visage awaited him, seated in his plush throne-like chair. He wore fine
black linens and was draped in gold rings and necklaces befit of a man his station. His face wore a
graying beard. Two crystal flutes filled with soft pink fluid was on a square table. An empty chair,
equally plush and throne-like, stood on the opposite side of Alaric's Lord and Master. Alaric came up
to the side of the chair and took a knee, bowing deeply and humbly before the head of Hamelton
family.
"My Master," Alaric whispered toward the floor. "Your unworthy servant is honored to be in your
presence."
Teryn Hamelton waved off the greeting and gestured toward the empty seat.
"Rise Alaric," the Teryn replied with warmth. "Sit down. Relax. Drink. And tell me what happened
with my son."
The White Necromance rose to his feet, his head still bowed low. His dark hair fell over his face,
covering it like curtains. Alaric followed His Eternal Grace's orders and sat down, using his staff for
support on his way down. The sight looked bizarre for anyone watching, as Alaric looked no more
than hin his mid-twenties, yet he used the staff to move around as if he was over a hundred years
old. Alaric pushed the hair out of his face, using his free hand while he looked towards his Lord and
Master.
"Of course, my Master," Alaric's voice lacked all human warmth, but it was bound with
unquestioned obedience. "Lord Shanen was rescued by the Lady Rogue while the Ashened Warrior
and your unworthy servant laid waste to the Bandit Queen's domain. It was not clear if Lord Shanen
needed the assistance. He had the Bandit Queen captured when I addressed him."
The Teryn thoughtfully stroked his beard, reaching for the flute and taking a sip from it.
"Yes, yes. I read the official reports and was debriefed by everyone who participated in the rescue."
Alaric was hoping that his Lord was not going in the direction that he feared, but all he could do was
wait and listen. "What I found concerning was my son's attachment to this Queen. And something
about my son's wanderlust finally emerging."
The Teryn smirked, deep in thought for a couple seconds before continuing.
"It is time for the Ritual of the Harvest Moon, isn't it? That's when it seems to happen."
Alaric responded with a nod, grabbing the flute and taking a very long drink.
"How many Hamelton men have you protected on their journey so far?" The Teryn inquired.
"Three generations of the Hamelton's lineage, my Master," Alaric responded, keeping his voice cool
and even.
"Why is it that this begins at the time of the Ritual?"
Alaric looked away from his Master, suppressing a sneer.
"I do not know, my Lord," Alaric responded again. "May your unworthy servant speak freely?"
"Always," the Teryn replied.
Alaric's eyes shifted around the room, reading something unseen.
"Sire, I went into the wilderness at your request. I would not have done it for anyone else. My loyalty
to you is, and will always be, complete and total. I have protected your line for three generations. I
have protected you when you decided to leave your father and prove yourself worthy of his riches
and home. Your son, if I understood the Lady Rogue correctly, will be after an unknown mystical
object. I am not ready for such a task. My wounds have not yet healed from protecting you during
your quest."
The Teryn leaned forward in his throne, staring into Alaric's eyes. No other person, magical or
otherwise, was able to survive this action. He held Alaric in his gaze.
"My friend," Alaric's Master said warmly and kindy. "You are the one who protected me, my father
and grandfather. This is a family tradition. We both know Shanen will come here after he finishes
his meeting with Lyra to plead for her life. She can redeem herself from her crimes, he will claim.
Probably will also tell us that she can lead him to the object. You know as well as I do that her crimes
demand death and nothing less."
Alaric nods in agreement.
"But the law is always tempered with mercy. My friend," the Teryn's voice took on a slightly
mournful tone. "You must protect Shanen as you have done me. The wounds that Flemith gave you
from my mistake will never fully heal. But we are in the middle of a Blight. You are the only one I
trust to keey my favorite son alive. Do you understand me?"
Alaric nodded again. His Eternal Grace was sentencing him to a prolonged death. He accepted
because his Master told him.
"You may die on this journey. But this is a Hamelton's rite of passage. It will not be denied to him.
When Shanen comes in, we will both be against his idea. But I will be convinced by my son's
elequent arguments. You will not be, but I will order you to accompany him anyways. You only have
one order from me. No harm may come to Shanen Hamelton.
None.
Even if the entire Blight appeared over the horizon, my son must emerge from the battle without a
single scratch. Do you understand me, my friend?"
Again, Alaric nodded.
"As for the Bandit Queen," the Teryn continued. "You will obey the spirit of the law. All is tempered
with mercy. If my son wants my realm to show mercy to her, you will too. Give her a chance to
redeem herself. You do not have to protect her, but you will not hinder her. You should watch her to
make sure she will not harm my son. Do you understand me, my friend?"
"Yes, my Master," Alaric responded quietly.
"Shanen will need a force to lead. See if those that accompanied you are interested in this quest."
"Yes, my Master."
The Teryn fell silent, considering if anything else needed to be said. Alaric only looked down, lost in
thought. He was the sword and shield of the Hamelton family for ovr four generations. He always
protected them on their hero's quest. But this felt different to Alaric. Somehow final as if he would
not be returning from this rite of passage for Shanen.
It wasn't the horrific wounds given to him from Flemith.
It wasn't even the Fade calling to him.
It felt his own death. His own corruption. The coming loss.
He remained seated in silence. Before either man could speak, the door to the room flew open.
[Shanen, maybe?]
Shanen:
Shenen entered the door to his Father's meeting chamber. The Teryn and Alaric were already there
and he gave a slight nod of acknowledgement to the two before speaking. "Father, I imagine you
know why I am here. The Queen's kidnapping of me was for a reason other than greed as far as I can
tell. She speaks of an 'Eye' which can drive the Darkspawn away. I beleive her conviction that the
object exists and wish to seek it out."
He pauses, looking for any reaction but Alaric and his father seem content to let him speak. "My
only request is Lyra be freed to aid me in such a journey. Without her I cannot hope to find the
artifact. Her aid in this quest will serve as redemption for her crime. If we find the object because of
her, that good deed of ridding the lands of Darkspawn will outweigh her past transgressions."
The young man pauses again, now waiting on one of the other men to speak.
Fabian:
Fabian felt uncomfortable in this place, it was large, open and seemed to be lacking in exits, should
the worst come to pass. he couldn't help but feel tense as he wandered the halls, his hand constantly
resting on his dagger. He reached the end of the hall and turned, seeing no one behind him. Looking
out, he had a wide view of the courtyard, and so he sat in the window, back resting on its frame and
letting the cool winds lap over him as he drifted in thought.
This was a mistake. i shouldn't have dragged Amuria away from the clan like this. She was happy
there, and i was more focused on our future there. Now she seems upset and i know i'v been
distant from her as of late. I'll make it up to her, i think.Fabians gaze was lured as the call of birds
drew his attention to the setting sun. It would soon be dark and he would be in his element, able to
scour the grounds for something without being bothered by gaurdsmen.
A few moments later, the darkness set in, drowning the keep in its moonlight. Fabian lept from the
window ledge and landed awkwardly in the garden bed. Fabian spent almost an hour, wandering
and pondering, when he came across a strange piece of scrap on the floor, under the tree. it was
smooth and light blue in color, yet soft. he sat and took out his knife and began carving at the object,
not sure entirely what he was doing. another hour had past, and the object in his hand had
seemingly taken on the form of a howling wolfs head.
hmm, i wonder if she'll appreciate this?
Fabian cut a small strip of leather from his own jacket and fastened a small twine necklace from
which he strung the head from.
Perfect. he thought
He clutched the new amulet tightly as he headed back towards Amuria's quarters. he got lost a few
times, the unnecessary rooms confused him, but he finally reached the door. He was just about to
knock when he heard chatter inside, and so he simply placed an ear near the door and waited.
An unrecognizable voice came from within.
"The cosmos comes into alignment in about six hours.Just be ready for it, if you do decide to partake
in it. If you do not, you are welcome to observe."
There was a seemingly long pause before Amuria's voice was heard
"I wish to participate."
"I would recommend preparing yourself, Amuria. Perhaps this will not exhaust you, as your mother
had you participate in several rituals already. But it is better to be safe...."
Fabian backed away in a slight state of shock.
Safe? Amuria could be placed in danger?
In his slight shock, he dropped the amulet just to the left of the door, and seemingly took no notice.
"I beg your forgiveness, but I must be going. His Eternal Grace, the Teryn, expects me at his
personal meeting hall in five minutes."
"oh shit" fabian mutter aloud to himself as he dashed down the hall silently and rounded a corner,
seeing the mage exit Amuria's quarters.
"what are you up to shem?"
he asked himself, before following him carefully to the main hall.
After listening to the chat between the mage and his "master" Fabian turned and took his leave back
towards the courtyard and sat beneath the tree to ponder what he had just heard. "all is tempered
with mercy? tell that to the blight" he scoffed to himself.
"but what of this object? what is its worth to these shems?"
Kell:
Kell wandered around the Castle grounds with Allard at his side, not sure what to do with himself.
He had visited Syrinia the guild mistress to ensure that his debt was settled, but now he was stuck
here. The Teryn insisted that he and the others stay and enjoy his hospitality. Kell could’ve refused,
but he was reluctant to insult a powerful noble by refusing his generosity.
“I should be joining my brothers and sisters in battling the darkspawn”, the young warrior thought
to himself, “not resting on my backside doing nothing.”
He sighed with resignation and frustration. Allard looked up at him, concern present in his
intelligent gaze. “Nothing we can really do about it boy”, Kell said as he patted Allard’s side. To help
deal with his boredom, he figured he should see what Kethrii was up to. After getting her location in
the castle from one of the servants, he went to the [whatever room Kethrii is in] and knocked before
entering.
“Please tell me you find this as dull as I do.”, he asked her as walked into the room.
Kethrii:
Kethrii was miserable.
She paced back and forth in her lavish room feeling as though she were going stir-crazy. Although
the noble himself seemed like an honorable enough man, allowing his elvin guests to stay alongside
their human counterparts, and it was true that the few servants Kethrii had seen had been a mixture
of both humans and elves, neither looking particularly mistreated, the fact still remained that Keth
had never spent time in a keep as an honored guest and the experience should have been a novel
one. However, she simply could not seem to relax or get comfortable.
She'd attempted to wander the halls and only received suspicious looks from the guards. She'd opted
to try and stay in the room, but despite is giant expanse, she felt stifled. The bed itself, while overly
plush and soft, felt as though it was swallowing her. If she'd tried to get something to eat, everyone
demanded she rest and have one of the servants bring it to her. The entire pomp and circumstance
of it all left her feeling a bit sickened.
Out. Kethrii merely wanted out. The thick stone walls were too oppressive... too much of a reminder
of everything she'd escaped from. It didn't matter that it was an entirely different keep full of
entirely different people.
After their debriefing with the Teryn, she'd even tried returning to the thieves guild and was
promptly berated by Syrinia for not taking the lord up on his hospitality. So concerned about
appearances was she, that the overbearing woman actually forced Kethrii to go back and stay at the
keep regardless.
Now, here she was - pacing and restless, and seriously considering tying her sheets together and
escaping out through the window, when she heard a knock on the heavy door. She paused, leaning
back out of the window to look at the door quizzically.
"Come in..?" she called out, watching as the door swung open to reveal Kell and his hound that was
big enough to swallow her alive.
“Please tell me you find this as dull as I do," he stated unceremoniously as he stepped inside,
immediately putting Kethrii at ease.
A smile crept across her face. "Dull is a polite word for it!" She flopped her hands at her sides. "I
think I might run through the hall screaming if I stay in here any longer..."
Alaric:
Teryn Hamelton and Alaric both looked toward the door as Shanen entered the private meeting
chamber. The Teryn was about to rise his feet to greet the son but Shanen spoke first.
"Father, I imagine you know why I am here. The Queen's kidnapping of me was for a reason other
than greed as far as I can tell. She speaks of an 'Eye' which can drive the Darkspawn away. I
beleive her conviction that the object exists and wish to seek it out."
Alaric looked at the Teryn's favored son with extreme skepticism. The Teryn only observes and
listens
"My only request is Lyra be freed to aid me in such a journey. Without her I cannot hope to find
the artifact. Her aid in this quest will serve as redemption for her crime. If we find the object
because of her, that good deed of ridding the lands of Darkspawn will outweigh her past
transgressions."
Alaric held his dragon-bone staff in his arm, using it to get to his feet. He almost stumbled, but
righted himself at the last moment. His Eternal Grace sat still, still only observing.
"Your Eternal Grace," Alaric addressed his Master. "Your unworthy servant assumes he still has
permission to speak freely?"
The Teryn nodded once. Alaric spun around to face the favored son.
"Lord Shenan," Alaric spoke in humble tones towards his better. "The Bandit Queen is responsible
for the death of several outstanding men. It is the law that demands her death. That law will give
comfort to the widows who weep into their pillows because their husband will never be there to
comfort them again. You are responsible for upholding and maintaining that law, Your Grace."
He points at him with his free hand, accusationally.
"You are! It is your responsibility to see the Bandit Queen put to death. For the grieving widows. The
law must be upheld. By what right do you have to put a criminal's flirtations over the grief of
widows?"
Shanen:
"We can offer those widows no comfort other than the pension for those married to men who have
fallen in your service. Will another death comfort them? Justice may demand it but I am talking to
you about the greater good. Five men against five thousand men and woman and children slain at
the hands of darkspawn." Shanen kept his tone neutral but the conviction in his words were clear.
"Would saving thousands of lives not balance against those taken?"
Alaric:
"A fantasy against the pain of reality, Your Grace." Alaric's words are harsh. But they need to be
now. He is fighting for the law, to convince the Teryn's son that Alaric wanted the Bandit Queen's
death, and to force him to defeat Alaric in debate.
"The Bandit Queen is a manipulator who plans ahead. She had to have known there would be a
rescue attempt. She demanded money from your father. Not help to find an artifact. Money. She
knew that by burning the papers, she would make you think there was something important on it.
She is doing nothing more than playing you for the fool."
He smirks.
"And if she is telling the truth, she is not needed to find the artifact. She would not have only one
copy of notes that are so valuable. That would be madness to consider such an option. She would
have hid them somewhere. It is simple reason to figure that out. It would only be a matter of
investigation to locate them. We can have them uncovered in a month. And if she did not make
another copy of the notes, then what use would she be to us? The Lady Bandit managed to recover a
good amount of notes already. There is enough to work with to follow up and recreate what she did.
This is not enough to ignore the law"
Shanen:
"No, I believe she burned the papers so no one else could follow them, leaving her as the sole person
who knew the details on the artifact." He paused, knowing such an argument did not look favorably
on Lyra. "She had her own reasons but when asked she did not lie about what she was seeking."
Shanen felt his anger rising, the mage had been talking down to him and the smirk etched on his
face did nothing to help. He may be the Teryn's son but he was a man grown. He had fought in
battles and traveled to the edges of the world yet the Mage would treat him as a child.
"You talk about having a month to find another copy of the notes whereas with what I'm proposing
we could have the artifact itself in the same time period."
He now turned to face Alaric. "You talk about law Ser, yet ignore your own flaunting of it. By the law
of this land the Templars should have locked you up in the Circle or killed you long ago for the
powers you possess. It is only due to my Father's influence that such a fate has not befallen you. I
ask you how you can ignore one law yet so vigorously attempt to uphold another."
Alaric:
Alaric stepped forward, staring Shenan directly in his eyes. His voice stern.
"The Templars would kill me by the law of the Chantry if they knew my existence. I am alive solely
from the law of the Hamelton family. I do not flaunt. I merely obey the law that treats me based off
my actions. Surely you disagree with the laws that oppress the Elves because they were born Elves?
For the law to be valid, it must judge all fairly, else why should anyone obey it?"
Fabian:
Fabian grew weary of pondering meaningless objects, his mind wandered back to the prisoner the
nobles now held. he understood nothing of why she was incarcerated and took it upon himself to
find out. he had, after all, had many opportunities to free her, yet stayed his hand. He rose with a
sense of determination, moving through the courtyard and entering the keep once more.
After a few moments of wondering the halls, he came to a heavily guarded door that lead downward,
seemingly into the ground.
This must be the place, i see no other purpose for this room.The guards stood to attention and
blocked his path.
"HALT! By order of His grace, none shall enter this place."
"then what is its purpose?"
The guards looked shocked by such a question.
"This place holds the scum of this keep and its lands."
"how is that so? you said yourself, none may enter. in imprisoning these folk, you have broken your
own rule, have you not?"
"THAT ruling was recently handed down since the capture of the bandit queen. None have been able
to enter since her arrival."
"Do i LOOK like im here to free the woman? seriously. you shems all seem alike, mistrusting and
ignorant."
"DON'T TRY MY PATIENCE KNIFE EARS! turn and leave before we arrest you!"
Fabian pulled his knife on those words and placed it firmly against the young mans neck.
"then once more you would be breaking your lords word! i could cut you down and naught be done
in retaliation. i am hear as a guest and the current orders forbid you from allowing me past said
door. call me knife ears...one more time."
His gaze was cold as the winds atop the mountains.
"alright fine. you get 5 minutes you hear me? and you'll not speak a word of this."
Fabian entered the cells and poked around, seeing most of them empty.
"surprisingly little crime, don't you think?"
He reached the bandit queens cell and stood before the iron bars.
"ah, i see there treating you well. even had the dignity to remove the stockades."
GM Post:
"Surprisingly little crime, don't you think?"
Lyra was surprised to hear the Elf's voice. She had been sitting in quiet meditation, legs underneath
her, back against the wall, eyes closed. She let her eyes adjust to the light before looking over at the
man.
"Ah, I see they're treating you well. Even had the dignity to remove the stockades." He looked at her
through the bars of her windows. She was momentarily struck at how similar their coloration was not in a familial sense, per se - but it was a striking reminder of her half blood heritage.
"The young Prince is an optimist at heart. I'm sure his father would be displeased to hear that my
wrists are no longer bound. No doubt they assume I could perform a feat of illusion and trickery and
manage to find my way out of the bars." Lyra said, smirking slightly. "To what do I owe the honor of
a second visitor?"
Fabian:
"Mainly a few answers, but i see no reason to be rude. I am fabian, and you would be?"
(room for a reply)
"a pleasure. now i'm afraid time is short, so i will seem rather blunt."
Fabian shifted, unsure as to the reaction he was about to receive
" I was watching you back at camp. your not like normal shems, but then again, your no shem are
you? what exactly are you? qunari maybe?"
Fabian had heard rumors of them, but never knew what they looked like, so this was his best guess.
GM Post:
"Mainly a few answers, but I see no reason to be rude. I am Fabian, and you would be?"
"I suppose you've heard they call me the Bandit Queen. My name is Lyra." She said with a mild nod
of the head, to be polite.
"A pleasure. now I'm afraid time is short, so I will seem rather blunt." He seemed uncomfortable
with his next question, making Lyra curious what it would be... certainly not about her treasure, that
would be quite easy to ask after. "I was watching you back at camp. You're not like normal shems,
but then again, you're no shem are you? What exactly are you? Qunari maybe?"
Lyra let out a laugh. He was a curious elf... she shook her head lightly, both in incredulity, and to
indicate she was not Qunari.
"You came all this way to ask me that?" She said, but before he could answer she spoke again. "I am
half blood. My mother was an Elf, Dalish, I was told. My father was human. For all intents and
purposes, I am human enough - but my unusual coloration has netted me attention from both sides.
I suppose I should not be surprised at your inquiry. My turn for a question, why did you decide to
get involved? Teryn may not be the usual slave driver against Elven kind, as so many of the others but he is still a human."
Fabian:
"involved? you seem to think we volunteered to save the Teryn's son. no. we simply happened along
the fires and climbed the walls to see if we may lend a hand. I my self am dalish, though not born of
the clan. i asked leave to venture on my own path as the clan plans to move east to avoid the blight."
Faian looked puzzled slightly as he answered. why would this woman care?
"i have never seen shem cities and was unsure as to whether i would need the company of one to
enter. seems i was wrong." he chuckled to himself.
He took a moment to examine the cell that Lyra was kept in.
"water i see? how....human. here, try some of this, its a dale recipe."
he passed the flask of alcohol through the bar's in the window.
"now, i have to admit i have been keeping an ear to the ground around here....what is this object that
the Teryn speaks of? that mage seems to think YOU know something of it? is that why your here and
not dead?"
GM Post:
She surveyed the flask for a moment. During any other time, she would distrust the man and what
he was offering her. However, considering she was up to be killed in under a day, and she really had
no reason to keep her senses sharp... she stood, and walked to the edge of the cell, accepting the
flask. She raised it in cheers to him, and took a drink from it. It had a mild sort of flavor, but still a
nice burn. She nodded her approval at it, and handed the flask back to him.
"Nice drink." She said. "I do know of the object..."
Ah, and now we get to why he came..
"I would not accredit it to my current state of being alive instead of dead... I think I am merely alive
right now because it is worth Teryn's money to see me hanged in public, therefore dissuading any
would be criminals from following my example. If I am alive in two day's time... well, that will be on
account of what I know about the artifact." She was intentionally evasive, not sure how far the man
would dig for information. He wasn't hired by Teryn, he had admitted as much - so he wasn't sent by
Shanen for more information... an as far as Lyra could tell, there was nothing to be gained turning
him against Shanen... so, by her count, being vague was the best course of action...
Fabian:
Her vagueness made him smirk. smart girl he thought.
"you believe you shall die tomorrow? yet you seem almost accepting of this fate. I must admit i am
slightly confused by this."
Fabian took a swig from his flask before placing it back in his belt.
"For what it's worth, i admire the strong will. i'm afraid i must take my leave, the guards will surely
be getting annoyed at my being here, but before i do..." he paused a moment as he turned
"say you did escape.what next? would you simply flee or finish what you started?"
GM Post:
"I came to terms with death a long time ago." Lyra said. "Fearing death is foolishness."
"For what it's worth, I admire the strong will. I'm afraid I must take my leave, the guards will surely
be getting annoyed at my being here, but before I do...", he paused briefly, turning away from her.
"Say you did escape. What next? Would you simply flee; or finish what you started?"
"If I managed to find my way out, I would be back at the beginning of my path. I would need to see if
it were feasible to begin my undertaking again." Lyra shrugged lightly. "I would likely began what I
started - but it may not be immediate."
Kell:
[Sorry, short post]
A smile crept across Kethrii’s face. "Dull is a polite word for it!" She flopped her hands at her sides.
"I think I might run through the hall screaming if I stay in here any longer..."
Kell chuckled and said, “I might have to join you. Being stuck here is taking its toll on me.” He
leaned against the wall and asked, “So how long do you think we’ll be stuck here?”
Shanen:
"The Templars would kill me by the law of the Chantry if they knew my existence. I am alive solely
from the law of the Hamelton family." The mage walked up to Shanen fixing with a stare, his tone
stern. The young noble did not flinch but his anger began to rise, the mage was still talking down to
him. Shanen had never been concerned with social status and took pride in the fact he treated
everyone with respect, no matter what their standing in society but the Mage was in the employ of
his family and was in danger of offending one of those who ensured his safety. He kept himself quiet,
allowing Alaric to finish.
"I do not flaunt." The Mage continued, "I merely obey the law that treats me based off my actions.
Surely you disagree with the laws that oppress the Elves because they were born Elves? For the law
to be valid, it must judge all fairly, else why should anyone obey it?"
Shanen shrugged. "You talk about the law of the Hamelton family. I ask that our law show mercy for
the greater good."
Alaric:
"You talk about the law of the Hamelton family. I ask that our law show mercy for the greater
good."
Alaric looked at the Teryn's favored son incredulously.
"The mercy of the Hamelton family is beyond reproach, but to the Bandit Queen? She has done
more to destroy the greater good than any darkspawn or blight ever has. She sent out two patrols
everyday, to kidnap helpless peasants and held them for ransom. Over five hundred families have
lost their homes and have starved to death just for her to enjoy her opulence. Her freedom came at
the expense of people who did not deserve what happened to them. She led thugs and murderers."
He turned towards his master, gesturing toward where he knew the Bandit Queen awaited her fate.
"Mercy?" He asked the Teryn, bile dripping with every word. "For that thing? There must be a limit
drawn. She deserves no mercy. She has done nothing but take and destroy for her own selfish gain.
The world would be better off if she never existed to begin with. The least you can do, my Master,
would be to snuff out her life before she can continue destroying life after life for her own gain. We
can trust the Grey Wardens to do their duty and stop the blight. Her magical bouble, even if it
existed, pales in comparison to the power of the Wardens. Trust in them, my Master. Do not trust
the Bandit Queen. I beg of you."
Shanen:
"And what of you Maester? You have seen and done many things. If you were to be judged on your
actions without my Fathers influence to keep you safe what fate would await you? You again preach
of justice while ignoring your own actions, the only difference being your deeds were carried out
under a Teryn's protection." Shanen's tone grew colder, whispers had followed the Mage for as long
as he'd been in the service of the Hamelton's. Talk of dark deeds but without any evidence to
confirm such tales.
Most took them to be true however.
"Do the lives she has ruined outweigh those you have destroyed. If talk from the rest of the rescue
party is to believed you murdered non-combatatants. Where is their mercy?"
Shanen turned to face his father. "If the Bandit Queen tries to escape or jeopardises anyone in
anyway, I will see justice done by my own sword."
He knew releasing her was a risk but he had no doubt he would have her head himself if she crossed
him while on their search.
Alaric:
Alaric's eyes narrowed into slits, snapping his head around, glaring at Shanen. Alaric's long raven
hair whipped around his face, hiding his sneer before falling to his shoulders. Just before he could
respond, the Teryn rose to his feet and cleared his throat. The sound was enough to cause Alaric to
fall to one knee, bowing low towards His Eternal Grace.
"Enough," the Teryn declared, silencing the White Necromancer and his son. "Enough. You have
made your case. Both of you."
The Teryn made a sweeping gesture to both men making the case on the Bandit Queen's life. One
wanted her death. One wanted her redemption. Both sought to uphold the law.
"But we know that the law must be tempered with mercy. Shanen is correct in his interpretation of
the law, Alaric. Mercy is the most important part when carrying out the law. Not everyone comes
from the same situation. We do not know what drove her to the life she led. Perhaps one of my
ancestors created an unfair law which put her ancestors into poverty, leading her entire family line
to this sort of life."
He began to walk towards Alaric, placing his hand on the Mage's shoulder while looking at his son
with pride.
"She has a chance to save many lives and work towards the greater good of everyone. Though her
motives may have been selfish in acquiring this artifact, it can be used for the betterment of the the
community.
Shanen, tell Lyra her life is spared. Let her know that we are opening our coffers to repay her many
victims back what she stole from them. Tell her about the guards she killed and have her meet with
their widows. She has to learn that her actions have affected far more lives than she took into
account. Make it clear that this is her one chance at redemption. Should she reject it, her life is in
your hands."
The Teryn squeezed Alaric's shoulders.
"And Alaric. You are to accompany my son on his journey. Help him form his team. I suggest the
warrior and rogue that you already journeyed with. The Thieves' Guild has been desperately trying
to renormalize our working relationship. I am sure they will be willing to spare those two fine
members. Also, see if the two Dalish Elves will want to come with. Not only for the numbers. The
Dalish possess skills and lore that we do not. Their perspective will be invaluable."
He paused, looking down at Alaric and then up to Shanen...still with nothing but pride in his eyes.
"Dismissed."
Shanen:
Shanen nodded his thanks to both his Father and Alaric, he harboured no ill-feelings to the Mage
who had fought for what he believed in. He departed to Lyra's cell intending to give her the news. As
he made his way down the corridor to where the Queen was being held, several guards rushed past.
He immediately took a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach. He chased after them, skidding the
corridor into Lyra's cell to be faced with eight of his Father's guards holding an elf at sword point.
The young noble instantly recognized him as one of those who had been present during his rescue.
"What's going on here?" Shanen demanded.
"The elf pulled a knife on the man guarding the prisoners cell." A sargent explained. "He asked to
see your captive. The guard denied him of course but the elf insisted as he was a guest."
Shanen rolled his eyes. "I don't think our friend understands his rights as a guest but best not
skewer him over his own ignorance."
He dismissed the men before turning to face the elf. "I'm not sure who you think you are. You are
afforded guest rights while you stay here but you do not command anyone nor demand anything.
You respect the rules and respect our household. By rights you should be in chains, a more
suspicious man would think you may have been trying to free our friend here. Be smart next time.
Common sense is a virtue you should seek to make use of."
Finishing with Fabien he turns to Lyra. "Your life has been spared on the condition you lead us to
the Eye, as we agreed. Furthermore, my father is paying a widows pension to the men you slayed. He
also decreed you meet with them, to see the consequences of your actions. I trust those terms are
suitable Queen?
GM Post:
"Your life has been spared on the condition you lead us to the Eye, as we agreed. Furthermore, my
father is paying a widows pension to the men you slayed. He also decreed you meet with them, to see
the consequences of your actions. I trust those terms are suitable Queen?" Shanen said, looking in
on Lyra. The woman quirked an eyebrow at him at the last part.
"I'm surprised you worked so quickly. I will stay true to my word - I told you if you could convince
your father, that I would lead you. I will ensure that you are lead straight to the Eye, avoiding as
many traps and pitfalls as I am aware of, and once my business is concluded with the object, it will
be yours. My business should take no longer than an hour - and will require no additional travel, so
you need not fear a double cross.
"I will agree to your terms and meet with your widows. Do not be disappointed if I am not moved by
their plight. Their husbands knew the risks of being guards, as my men knew the risks of being
bandits." Lyra said dismissively.
Fabian:
"What's going on here?" Shanen demanded.
"The elf pulled a knife on the man guarding the prisoners cell." A sargent explained. "He asked to
see your captive. The guard denied him of course but the elf insisted as he was a guest."
Shanen rolled his eyes. "I don't think our friend understands his rights as a guest but best not
skewer him over his own ignorance."
He dismissed the men before turning to face the elf.
"thanks, i was slightly more careless here than usual."
"I'm not sure who you think you are. You are afforded guest rights while you stay here but you do
not command anyone nor demand anything. You respect the rules and respect our household. By
rights you should be in chains, a more suspicious man would think you may have been trying to free
our friend here. Be smart next time. Common sense is a virtue you should seek to make use of."
"understood,i'll be sure to sate my curiosity more subtly next time."
Fabian smirked as he dusted down his coat, but did not leave the cells. He leaned against the door
frame near the entrance, waiting for the young noble to finish with Lyra so that he may have a word
with him.
Shanen:
As Shanen finished talking to Lyra he turned to see the elf leaning against the doorframe, a slight
smirk still on his face. He certainly has confidence the noble thought to himself. Or was it
arrogance?
"I'm putting a group together". He said to Fabien. "It's been recommended that I should see if you
and your female companion would join us so we may make use of the unique skills elves seem to
possess. There's no financial reward, although my Father will pay for necessary supplies and
provisions. Let me know."
Kethrii:
A smile crept across Kethrii’s face. "Dull is a polite word for it!" She flopped her hands at her sides.
"I think I might run through the hall screaming if I stay in here any longer..."
Kell chuckled at that, inviting himself in and closing the door behind him. Kethrii didn't mind. She
was glad for the distraction of company. “I might have to join you. Being stuck here is taking its toll
on me," he stated, leaning against the wall casually. "So how long do you think we’ll be stuck here?"
"Honestly, I have no idea." Kethrii shook her head, leaning back to sit on the window seat across
from him. "Syrinia, as... I'm sure you're aware, is an.... interesting woman. She seems to think I'm
honor-bound as a member of the guild to stay and enjoy the Teryn's hospitality. I argued that I could
sleep outside with the horses for all the Teryn cares." Kethrii smiled wryly. "She didn't take the joke
well."
Honestly, Kethrii was curious about the scrolls she'd handed to Shanen, but hadn't heard a word
about them in days. The young noble had thanked her kindly enough... but then that was all. He was
clearly interested in what the scrolls contained, but seemed more keen on a way to save his previous
captor than actually find the riches the scrolls hinted at. Keth was hoping for at least a finder's fee...
but now it seemed she would never know the scroll's secrets. Right now, that didn't matter much at
all if it meant another evening stuck in the Gods-forsaken keep.
"It's aalllll about the politics with these people." She stuck out a hand to his giant hound, wondering
if it was pat-able or if it might take offense and bite her hand off, before glanced up to Kell once
more. "I think the real question is... how long are we going to last before we just make a break for
it?"
GM Post:
((A bit of Scene))
No matter where each of the characters were - night fell in earnest. The good people of the keep
started to wind down their nights, while the night watch, and the after hours denizens began to
wake. Across the walls of the community that lived around the keep, signs announcing the death of
the Bandit Queen begun to be taken down. There were whispers of surprise, and inquiry - wondering
why she had been spared. Almost immediately, rumors of her escape began to pop up in the
community, with guesses to where she was hiding.
Messages were drafted by Teryn's scribe, one for each of the adventurers that Shanen had requested
be called to arms. The messages were addressed to each in turn, signed by Teryn himself, and sealed
with a deep violet wax, intended only for the recipient. A runner was then sent to track down each of
the addressees, and deliver each of the messages.
The messages would be simple, and similar. Requesting the presence of the recipient to lunch the
following day. Teryn would, with his deepest regrets, not be in attendance, but his son, Shanen,
would be overseeing the meeting that followed lunch - to discuss a proposition. Attendance of the
meeting did not automatically sign one up for involvement, and those invited were permitted to back
out at any time, if they felt the proposition was not for them. Payment and provisions would be
provided at the cost of the Keep, of course. A post script would request the attendees to arrive in
style.
The messenger found each member of the group before they went to sleep that evening, and
delivered news to Teryn afterward that the scrolls had all been delivered.
((OOC Notes: Each of the messages would have a small amount of personal flair - what that flair is
depends on what your character has shown to Shanen (and by proxy, Teryn) to that point. For
instance, Kell might be asked to attend because he, and his hound, showed great skill on the
battlefield.
The messages can be delivered at your leisure, and aren't meant to interrupt your RP. Feel free to
simply slide them in when a scene is coming to a close, or if you run out of things to talk about. At
the moment, I know MZ has something planned, and if memory serves it's for "this evening" - so I
want to give he and Goddess a chance to do that before kicking them along in the story. I also know
Keth and Kell are having a conversation, and Shanen asked Fabian a question - so there's still plenty
going on right now.
The only caveat to the above is with Fabian and Lyra - as the Lyra/Fabian/Shanen conversation
would be before Shanen could get the list of adventurers to Teryn to get the messages out.
I didn't get a chance to ask HD this morning what would be of Lyra, so for the moment - let's assume
he ordered her down from the tower, and she's been given a room... however, the room is under
strict guard from any exit (including the window) and if she elects to leave the room for any reason,
three armed guards follow her closely.
Just for additional ideas - inside the outer walls of the keep would be a thriving community meant to
keep guards, smiths, and keep employees happy and watered. There's a couple of pubs and night
spots, stores, fruit stands, and other sundry sorts of medieval life things that happen. Feel free to
improvise.))
Kell:
"Honestly, I have no idea." Kethrii shook her head, leaning back to sit on the window seat across
from him. "Syrinia, as... I'm sure you're aware, is an.... interesting woman. She seems to think I'm
honor-bound as a member of the guild to stay and enjoy the Teryn's hospitality. I argued that I could
sleep outside with the horses for all the Teryn cares." Kethrii smiled wryly. "She didn't take the joke
well."
Kell smiled as well. “Yeah, she doesn’t seem like the joking sort.”
"It's aalllll about the politics with these people." She stuck out a hand to Allard, but seemed to
hesitate and glanced up to Kell. "I think the real question is... how long are we going to last before
we just make a break for it?"
“Seems you enjoy politics as much as I do. And unless we find a way to distract ourselves, making a
break for it will happen fairly soon.” Kell watched as Allard sniffed Kethrii’s hand curiously, and
then lowered his head so she could pet him. “No need to worry about Allard by the way. He might be
a terror on the battlefield, but off it, he’s a big loveable pup. Besides, I think he likes you.”
Fabian:
"I'm putting a group together". He said to Fabien. "It's been recommended that I should see if you
and your female companion would join us so we may make use of the unique skills elves seem to
possess. There's no financial reward, although my Father will pay for necessary supplies and
provisions. Let me know."
"I'm in. the more of these lands i see the better."
Fabian grabbed the young nobles arm as he turned to leave.
"But i will not stand for the miss treatment of elvish, whether slaves or simple folk in the alienage. if
i see them done wrong by anyone in your group, i shall hold you PERSONALLY responsible. Those
are my terms. And don't give me that, we give them everything they need to live comfortably junk. i
have seen and heard more about the lives of alianage folk in the last few days than i care to admit, all
of it disturbing."
Shanen:
Shanen shook his arm and broke the light grip of the Elf. "I am not your nursemaid. I expect
anyone coming on this journey to be able to handle their own problems. If you see something
you don't like, be a man about it and don't come crying to me like a snotty child to his mother."
He kept his tone calm, polite almost, but the anger was starting to run through him. This elf
was strange, no doubt about it. First his greeting at the Queen's camp, then the incident with
the guard and now mild threats while seemingly blaming Shanen for the plight of Alienage
Elves everywhere.
"Best not to threaten me my newest chum. I may have been born with the Silver Spoon but do not think I shy away from any
man, elf or dwarf. If you want to come along fine. If you want to whine in my ear the whole time I'd rather be accompanied
by the Reverend Mother from the local Chantry."
He turns to face the Queen once more. "I'll have the guards sort you with more...accomodating surroundings but don't get too
comfortable, we will be ready to depart soon. I'll send for you when the time comes. Both of you." With that the young nobles
turns and leaves, departing to his own chambers.
Kethrii:
“Seems you enjoy politics as much as I do," Kell replied knowingly. "And unless we find a way to
distract ourselves, making a break for it will happen fairly soon.”
"Distract ourselves, hmm?" Kethrii questioned, raising an eyebrow at him. "And just what do
warriors, such as yourself, do for a good time? The way I hear it, you are your happiest while bashing
in skulls and bleeding on the carpets." She smirked. "I admit our first meeting has not dissuaded me
from believing in this stereotype."
Kethrii watched as the hound sniffed her hand curiously before lowering his head so she could pet
him. She couldn't help but smile a little at the giant beast nuzzling into her palm.
“No need to worry about Allard by the way," Kell spoke up. "He might be a terror on the battlefield,
but off it, he’s a big loveable pup. Besides, I think he likes you.”
"I am ... honored," she said, scratching around the giant dog's ears. "And ... relieved," Keth added as
Allard yawned, revealing rows of rather large teeth.
Kell:
"I am ... honored," Kethrii said, scratching around the giant dog's ears. "And ... relieved," She added
as Allard yawned, revealing rows of rather large teeth.
Kell smiled at Allard’s enjoyment of the attention he was getting. He then looked at Kethrii again,
and said, “Our first meeting? Oh right, that little brawl at the guild hall.” His smiled became a bit
sheepish. “I won’t deny that I enjoy a good fight or giving that cheating bastard what he deserved,
but I need to learn to manage my anger better. Being an Ash Warrior doesn’t make that easy.
Besides, warriors enjoy things other than skull bashing and bleeding.” He chuckled at her apt choice
of words. “Drinking would be foremost…usually accompanied by friends and other people they enjoy
having in their company. Then there’s cards and basically anything else you can do while waiting for
the next battle.”
Kethrii:
“Our first meeting?" Kell questioned. "Oh right, that little brawl at the guild hall.”
Kethrii smiled, idly running her hands through Allard's coarse fur. "Yup, that'd be the one."
Kell's smile became a bit sheepish. “I won’t deny that I enjoy a good fight or giving that cheating
bastard what he deserved, but I need to learn to manage my anger better. Being an Ash Warrior
doesn’t make that easy. Besides, warriors enjoy things other than skull bashing and bleeding.” He
chuckled. “Drinking would be foremost…usually accompanied by friends and other people they
enjoy having in their company. Then there’s cards and basically anything else you can do while
waiting for the next battle.”
"Ahh, so not that different from rogues then..." Kethrii grinned. "Good drink, good food, rousing
games, good sleep... I'm fond of sleep," she smirked. "And of course, good friends... in...
accompaniment with any of those activities really."
She was about to comment further when there was a weak knock on the door. At first she thought
she had possibly imagined it, except for the fact that Allard's ears had perked up and he was staring
stiffly at the door.
Kethrii's hand automatically took stock of the hidden weaponry tucked into her bracer as she called
for whoever it was to enter. A moment later there was a small sniveling man hurrying into the room
to deliver some sort of sealed note. With barely a word, he'd handed one to Kethrii before
questioning Kell and slipping one to him as well.
The little man bowed deeply, making Kethrii uncomfortable with the servants' general attitude
toward her yet again, before scurrying back out, shutting the door behind him. Keth glanced up at
Kell to judge his reaction, before eyeing the deep violet wax that was holding the parchment closed.
She hesitated before slipping a finger under the seal to break the wax. "Any ideas what this might
be...?"
Amuria:
(Very late reply)
Amuria thought she heard footsteps outside her door way, shortly after Alaric had left. She leaned
out to see a shadow cross the corner. On the ground was a little carved wolf-head amulet on a string.
She leaned down to pick it up, a smile crossing her lips. Fabian ...", She uttered, walking back in her
room and laying down on her bed, admiring the amulet he had made for her as she waited for him to
return.
Fabian:
Fabian simply glared at shanen as he shook his arm free, spilling to him some hollowed words of
honor about threats. after the exchange, he headed back inside, leaving the cells behind him. I
should head back to Amuria now, she'll be waiting i suspect. He ran his hands down his coat,
smoothing the creases where the guards had hold and checking his weapons, before he headed for
the hall near Amuria's room. He stopped outside, hesitant to enter.
Amuria:
Amuria had fallen asleep, grasping the carved amulet against her chest. She opened an eye to see
Fabian standing in the door way. She smiled and motioned for him to come lay with her.
Kell:
Kell listened as Kethrii listed the activities rouges enjoyed, returning her smile, when a faint knock
came from the door. Kethrii called for the knocker to enter, and a short man came into the room
and, barely saying a word, handed Kethrii a letter. He turned and noticed Kell standing next to the
doorway and offered him a letter as well. Giving the man a look of annoyance, Kell accepted the
letter. The man bowed deeply and exited the room, gone as quickly as he had appeared. He looked at
the letter for a moment, wondering what this sudden delivery was all about.
"Any ideas what this might be...?", he heard Kethrii say.
He looked up to see her about to open her own letter. He smiled lopsidedly and said, “Maybe it’s our
eviction notice.”
He broke the wax seal on the letter and began to read it.
Kell of the Ash Warriors,
. Your presence is requested tomorrow at a luncheon being held by my son, Shanen. The meal will
be followed by a meeting. Shanen was impressed by the ferocity and skill both you and your
hound displayed during the effort to rescue him from the Bandit Queen. Attendance at the meeting
does not communicate your acceptance of the proposition, and you are, of course, able to decline
at any point you wish. Payment and provisions for what the proposition would require will be
provided at the cost of the Keep.
Teryn Hamelton
P.S. Formal attire is suggested for the meeting.
Kell glanced up from the letter to look at Kethrii and waited to hear if she had received a similar
letter.
Alaric:
Later that evening
A dark figure moved silently within the darkened forest, passed the dense trees and shrubberies.
Nighttime was the time for predators and all the other natural evils the world had to offer. It was a
time of hunting and murder. His time. The moon had yet peeked out over the horizon, its absence
coated all in darkness. The dark figure did not notice as he was a creature of darkness, of hunting,
and of murder. He was accustomed to the night. Alaric Magus.
He emerged from the wall of trees into one of the most sacred places in the region: The Grove of the
Unicorn. The name confused Alaric, as the area was devoid of all trees. The name described the
border of this tract of land. He frowned, looking around. The grass here grew lush and thick. It was
an area frequented by unicorns and other magical creatures. It was a place naturally briming with
life. He set down a satchel he was carrying with the supplies needed for the ritual. Incense, candles,
firewood, flint and steel.
He quietly got to work, preparing the fire and santifying the ground. He hoped Amuria and Fabian
received his letter telling them where the ritual would take place and when.
Alaric:
Alaric continued to prepare the Grove of the Unicorn for the coming ritual. The only light available
came from the flickering tiki-style torches he set up around the perimeter. The flat stone that Fabian
will be sitting on for the music was positioned at the outskirts of the Grove, by the lush greenery of
the forest. Alaric sat down on it to make sure Fabian would have a complete view of the ceremony. It
was at the highest point of the Grove. Alaric turned his head from far left to right, taking in the
scenery before him. Nothing appeared obscured to him, so he rose to his feet satisfied.
The fire pit was next. Alaric walked up to the pit at the center of the grove. Very little light reached
here. He bent his knees to lower himself to the ground, getting a closer look at the firewood and
tinder. He nudged some of the blocks to push it deeper into the tinder, to ensure the blocks would be
properly heated once the fire was lit. His head lifted to the stars. It wasn't time yet. Soon.
Soon.
Alaric fell backwards into the soft grass, his hazel eyes locked onto the night sky. Countless stars
stared back at him. He let his mind wander.
Alaric could remember a time when he had a name. Not what he was called. An actual name. He
couldn't remember what it was. Nobody could. That was the point of sealing it. But he could
remember being called it, whatever it was. He could also remember being...being.....happy?
Images flashed before his eyes. He used to live at the Mage Tower. Taken away from his family at
such a young age. Never given a choice in the matter. A young child, screaming for his mommy to
save him. Shouting that he was sorry for being born wrong. Please, don't let them take me away. I
don't want to go. Leave me alone. Alaric could still hear those words, over a century later, fresh in
his mind.
Alaric knew he wasn't always like this. He wasn't so empty. So many thoughts flooded his mind.
Making friends at the Mage Tower. Learning about the precepts of magic. Being taught control.
Class after endless class, always be taught the horrors of what could occur if a Mage lost control. The
tower taught that mages were only to be feared. Loathed. Ignored. The world was kept safe from
Mages as long as they remained in the tower, their true home. Never to leave their prison.
Alaric's eyes shifted rapidly from left to right, reading the stars. Why did he leave the Mage tower?
What drove him away? It was so long ago that he had difficulty recalling. A memory lost in the mists
of time. One of many. He could remember running from the Tower with one of their bags of holding,
filled with lost tomes and magical trinkets. But was was before that? He could remember being in
the archives, looking around desperately. So many aisles and piles of junk haphazardly placed. He
ran past so much, looking for something in particular. There were tears in my eyes. I lost something
of value. Was it my name? Was it then? I know that was after the spell.
No. It was something else. What was it?
Alaric frowned, concentrating on one star in particular, trying to sharpen his ancient mind. He could
see a woman. Chestnut hair, straight. Her eyes like sapphires. Her voice always singing. A bird
caged, like Alaric. No...she didn't know Alaric. She knew him before, when he was named. He could
remember them sneaking out of the tower. They couldn't secure permission, so they left through a
hidden passage they found. It was the greatest day of...of my life. We did so much that day and
night. We went into the local town and watched a puppet performance. We ate meals like a normal
couple. We sat by a stream and talked for hours. It was an average day for someone not born wrong.
But for us, it was everything.
It ended when the Templars found us at the stream. They drew their weapons and demanded we
surrender. We didn't put up any resistance, but they didn't care. They had our phylacteries. They
could track us anywhere. We learned there was a blood mage attack somewhere close by, and we
were the only ones in the area. They told us that we were held responsible. Dragged back to the
tower in chains, we stood before the First Enchanter. Evidence was read against us. Witnesses
called, placing us at the scenes of attack. She stepped forward, taking the blame for me. I shouted.
Pleaded. It wasn't her. It was me. But they didn't believe me. The witnesses and Templars agreed
with her. She was a blood mage.
They made her into a Tranquil. Lobotomizing her. Severing her humanity.
Taking away my last link to the world.
I performed the ritual that very night. I knew of several women with child. The soul of a pre-born
could regrow. I just didn't have to take all of it. While within the womb, it was safe still. I wasn't a
monster. I needed freedom. I couldn't get my phylactery. But if I could seal my name, I didn't have
to. The phylactery would no longer point to any Mage at all. It would be as empty as I am today.
The spell worked. I can't remember my name. Nobody can.
What was her name?
I didn't lose it in the spell. Her name was her own. I couldn't have forgotten, could I? No.
Alaric suddenly sat up, eyes widening.
"Esmerelda," he whispered prayerfully. That was her name. He remembered. I remember. How
could I forget her?
Alaric noticed something wet sliding down his cheek. He looked up curiously. It wasn't raining. He
reached his hand and wiped his cheek, seeing a drop of water there. He followed the path of it,
leading to his eye.
Fabian:
(a short reply, but i know we shall be leaving the room soon)
Fabian let out a slight smile, glad to see his sweet Amuria had found a smile of her own. He lay next
to her, an arm around her waist as he kissed her cheek softly.
"And how may you be this fin eve?" he asked quietly, knowing full well the events of her eve.
Amuria:
"And how may you be this fin eve?" Amuria leaned up and kissed him softly, before siting up and
ruffling her hair. "I am worried, Fabian." She slid her legs over the edge of her bed, slowly standing
up as she looked at the window. "We haven't long." She strode over to her suitcase of sorts, a well
made leather bag, and began digging to the bottom. Soon after, her hands found some soft fabric,
that jingled with the song of a hundred bells as she pulled it from it's confinement. It was a very
short and flowing dress, with decorative coins hanging off every feather of fabric. The colors started
out as a vibrant orange, as bright as the sun, fading to shades of yellow, bright pink, and red. At the
waist, the colors began fading to navy, and eventually black with sewn in diamonds to represent the
stars.
She laid it down on the table and began shrugging out of her sheer blue dress, that only covered
what it needed to. Once again she picked up the dress, which began chiming a gentle song with her
every touch, and slid it on, pulling it over her waist and breasts. She walked over to Fabian, who had
no doubt been watching the whole thing, not that she cared. "What do you think?", She twirled in
front of him.
(Fabians reply)
"Well, it still needs the final touch.", Amuria held out the amulet he had made for her, spinning
around and holding up her Amaranth locks.
Fabian:
Fabian watched as amuria changed. he admired her for the brief moment that both dresses where
off and smiled lightly to himself. she then gave a small twirl, smiling.
"What do you think?"
" Personally. i think your over thinking how you look. you always did." He gave her a soft kiss on her
forehead "but you look great anyway.""Well, it still needs the final touch.", Amuria held out the
amulet he had made for her, spinning around and holding up her Amaranth locks.
"Ah, you DID find it. i'm glad"Fabian tied a small double knot in the leather strap. He then ran his
hands softly across her shoulders and down her arms and held her hands as he looked at her
reflection in the mirror.
"I Hope you like it, now come. i believe you have a freaky ritual to attend."
Amuria:
Amuria frowned a little at his lack of emotion, something had to give. But for now, she let it go as he
fastened the amulet around her neck. "Yes, I did ... I love it. And I believe you have to be at that
freaky ritual as well.", She took his hand, heading out the door in the general direction of the ritual.
Alaric:
Alaric stared at the strange thing on his finger, rather confused. If he were a lesser man, he would
have thought that was his tear he was holding. Last time a tear escaped his eye was when Flemeth
gravely injured him roughly twenty-seven years ago. He sneered at the unknown liquid on his finger,
wiping it off on his robe with one forceful swipe. Alaric would not tolerate even the perception of
weakness. Perception of power was always far more important than power, at least to those who did
not practice the craft. The practitioners of the craft would never be impressed with the illusions of
power, though.
The ambient sound of the surrounding changed just a bit. Alaric heard the melody of bells and the
sounds of laughter. It was Amuria and her betrothed, Fabian. The sounded close. He frowned,
looking at his white dragon-bone staff that he placed out of the way while he moved the stone for
Amuria's betrothed. He quickly moved to grab it before they arrived. Holding the dragon-bone staff,
he mutters "Niangaung." A small ball of fire shoots from the end of the staff at the fire pit, igniting
it. The flames of the pit adds to the ambiance, combined with the tiki-torches, lighting up the entire
area.
Alaric moves to where they emerge from the forest. He bows deeply to them. His demeanor may
appear odd to Fabian, as when he studied Alaric, he had an aura of death about him. Now, though he
was still somewhat formal, he appeared almost normal.
"Amuria," he whispers, rising up from the bow. "Welcome to the Grove of the Unicorn. One of the
most sacred places in the Teryn's domain." He gestures towards the open area while turning his
attention to Fabian.
"And you sir," he bowed once more then rising up. "I must ask your forgiveness as I do not know the
formal titles of the Dalish, so I do not know how to properly greet one of your superior stature. I am
called Alaric. How would you prefer to be addressed?"
Fabian:
"And you sir," he bowed once more then rising up. "I must ask your forgiveness as I do not know the
formal titles of the Dalish, so I do not know how to properly greet one of your superior stature. I am
called Alaric. How would you prefer to be addressed?"
Fabian kept a stern look to his face, curious to see the mages intent, yet hesitant to fully trust the
man.
"I have no title as i am no more superior or lesser than any other dale. You may call me Fabian" he
gave a slight nod as he extended his hand slowly.
"May i ask why this place is sacred? it simply seems like the rest of its surroundings. the clan may
have even made camp here if we were forced to head this far north."
Amuria:
"That would be like asking why the Dalish pick certain camps to be their certain ground ... The
spirits guide us, Fabian. Nothing is by accident.", Amuria said, not in a belittling tone but more of a
genuine explanation. "Hello, Alaric.", She said smiling softly, curtsying. She took a moment to
survey her surroundings, from this point she felt she could see every star in the sky.
Alaric:
Alaric wasn't sure how to take Fabian's stance. He was aware of how the Dalish were treated
throughout human settlements. But his stance seemed to be one of aggression. His words, at least,
were measured.
"I have no title as I am no more superior or lesser than any other Dale. You may call me Fabian."
Fabian nodded briefly toward the White Necromancer, extending his hand for an informal
handshake. Alaric reached for Fabian's hand and grasped it. It was always a strange experience
making physical contact with someone who studies death. It was different for everyone. Some
described it like shaking hands with a corpse. Others describe it like having all the warmth and joy
sucked out of them. And others just remember the icy embrace around their hand. It was what
happened when Alaric forgot to repress the dark energies that churned within his soul.
Alaric released Fabian's hand, realizing that he forgot to do just that. Fortunately, Fabian kept
talking. Perhaps the Dalish were not affected by such things, Alaric considered. Or it was his
proximity to Amuria. I'll have to investigate further later.
"May i ask why this place is sacred?" Fabian inquired. "It simply seems like the rest of its
surroundings. The clan may have even made camp here if we were forced to head this far north."
Alaric was about to answer him but the lovely Amuria spoke up first. "That would be like asking
why the Dalish pick certain camps to be their certain ground ... The spirits guide us, Fabian.
Nothing is by accident.", Amuria replied to Fabian with a soft tone. "Hello, Alaric." She curtsied
properly and looked around the area. Alaric gestured toward the Grove, inviting the two to enter and
wander.
"That is an accurate assessment, Amuria," Alaric spoke while wandering with them through the
Grove of the Unicorn. He kept a respectful distance from both of them, but remained close enough
to them so he did not have to raise his voice. "There is a legend to this Grove. About one hundred
and twenty years ago, Lord Shanen's great-great-grandparents ruled the land. Teryn Adair
Hamelton and his bride Letitia Hamelton ruled the land with great justice and mercy. Their power
expanded through diplomacy rather than through the sword and shield. It was peaceful times. At the
time, Lord Adiar and Lady Letitia loved to wander the forests together. The High Guard attempted
to give them escort, but they refused it all. But the High Guard would not relent. So they agreed on
bringing their Court Mage. He joined them through the forest. It was mid-day that they arrived
here."
Alaric pointed to one of the trees at the outskirts of the Grove. "That tree there," he continued. "The
three emerged into this previously unknown area. Lord Adair swore this was not here before. He
knew every bush, tree, and blade of grass within his domain. He was positive there should have been
trees all about. His Court Mage was on guard, preparing for ambush. Lady Letitia gasped, pointing
over there.." Alaric pointed to the opposite tree across the way. His voice was carefully measured,
like he was not telling a story, but a memory. "A single white unicorn came from behind the trees,
walking to the center of the Grove."
Alaric pointed his white dragon-bone staff at the lit fire-pit...the center of the Grove. "It stood proud
and majestic. A unicorn is a sacred and pure creature. Its power cannot be understood by any
mortal, man or otherwise. The Court Mage stood away from the creature, unworthy to be in its
presence. Lord Adair and Lady Letitia approached the unicorn carefully. Legend says that only
women of pure heart may touch one, but that day, the unicorn touched both their brows with its
horn. They were anointed by one of the most sacred creatures of nature. The Court Mage stood
awestruck. He never laid eyes on a unicorn before or since. The unicorn left, turning back towards
the way it came. Lord Adair declared this Grove sacred from that day on, naming it after the sacred
unicorn that anointed his entire family line."
Alaric paused and smiled, like he was remembering the event that occurred here. This may seem
strange to both Amuria and Fabian, as Alaric looked at most in his mid-20s. He shook his head, his
black hair falling around his handsome face.
"Are we ready to begin the ritual," Alaric asked.
Fabian:
As alaric turned, Fabian shook his hand, trying to warm it. the freezing embrace had shot through
his body and time seemed to slow for a moment. he looked around, seeing that everything was gone,
different, yet he was in the same place. A lone unicorn ran through the trees and stood in the center
of the grove as Fabian stood in slight awe, then familiarity set in.
I'v been here before.Fabian snapped back, feeling cold and shocked to his core that one man could
be so in tune with death that it would invoke literal pain and suffering inside another.
Alaric pointed his white dragon-bone staff at the lit fire-pit...the center of the Grove. "It stood proud
and majestic. A unicorn is a sacred and pure creature. Its power cannot be understood by any
mortal, man or otherwise. The Court Mage stood away from the creature, unworthy to be in its
presence. Lord Adair and Lady Letitia approached the unicorn carefully. Legend says that only
women of pure heart may touch one, but that day, the unicorn touched both their brows with its
horn. They were anointed by one of the most sacred creatures of nature. The Court Mage stood
awestruck. He never laid eyes on a unicorn before or since. The unicorn left, turning back towards
the way it came. Lord Adair declared this Grove sacred from that day on, naming it after the sacred
unicorn that anointed his entire family line."
there was a slight pause from alaric and fabian felt caught off guard. was he asked a question or was
this a simple pause?
"Are we ready to begin the ritual?"
"Amuria this is your path and your choosing, i shall follow your decision here." Fabian was slightly
more hesitant to go along with the hole plan after touching the mages hand. He suddenly felt a
strong urge to place himself between her and Alaric, but forced himself to remain calm, for now.
Kethrii:
"Any ideas what this might be...?" Kethrii asked, shooting a quick glance up at Kell before breaking
the wax seal on her own letter.
Kell gave her a lopsided smile. “Maybe it’s our eviction notice.”
Keth laughed at that. "Gods, I hope so..." A faint frown creased her brow as she read through the
letter.
Lady Rogue Kethrii - The Scarlet,
Your presence is requested tomorrow at a luncheon being held by my son, Shanen. The meal will
be followed by a meeting. Shanen was impressed by skill and cunning you displayed during the
effort to rescue him from the Bandit Queen. Attendance at the meeting does not communicate your
acceptance of the proposition, and you are, of course, able to decline at any point you wish.
Payment and provisions for what the proposition would require will be provided at the cost of the
Keep.
Teryn Hamelton
P.S. Formal attire is suggested for the meeting.
Kethrii finished reading with a slight grimace. "Will someone please inform these people that 'The
Scarlet' is not my name?" she said with a half-joking, half-exasperated tone.
She could only assume this had something to do with the scrolls she'd given to Shanen, and her
interest was piqued. Kethrii looked up at Kell who seemed to be finished reading his own note. "You
got a lunch invitation too, I assume?" she questioned him, flopping her arms at her sides as she
glanced down at herself. "I sure hope they don't mind leather armor, because this is as formal as it
gets."
Kell:
"You got a lunch invitation too, I assume?", Kethrii inquired.
Kell nodded and said, “Looks like we might be sticking around a bit longer.”
Kethrii flopped her arms at her sides and glanced down at herself. "I sure hope they don't mind
leather armor, because this is as formal as it gets."
Kell grinned and said, “Well a little informality never killed anyone. At least you might be able to get
away with wearing your armor. I think my plate and chainmail might be a bit too much. Unless they
plan on providing me with some formalwear, I very much doubt I will be able to follow their dress
code.”
Amuria:
Amuria was entirely captivated by the picture Alaric painted before her, hanging on every word. Her
sea-glass green eyes widening as she looked around, trying to visualize the scene unfolding. A
moment later, when Alaric was finished, she felt almost disappointed yet still eager to begin the
ritual.
"Are we ready to begin the ritual?"
"Amuria this is your path and your choosing, i shall follow your decision here."
Amuria nodded, "By your lead, I am ready."
Kethrii:
Kethrii flopped her arms at her sides and glanced down at herself. "I sure hope they don't mind
leather armor, because this is as formal as it gets."
Kell grinned and said, “Well a little informality never killed anyone. At least you might be able to get
away with wearing your armor. I think my plate and chainmail might be a bit too much. Unless they
plan on providing me with some formal wear, I very much doubt I will be able to follow their dress
code.”
She tilted her head and looked him over. "Yeah, I think that might be pushing it... no offense."
Kethrii glanced down at herself, brushing smudges off her armor, trying to rub out the worst spots.
"I guess I can at least try and clean it first..." She chuckled. "Or maybe I can show up in a fur
barbarian get-up and shock them all while regaling them with a story of the 'traditional formal garb
of my people'..." She laughed and lowered her arms back to her sides. "Eh, sounds like too much
trouble."
"Well, it seems our evening has been freed up... care to get into trouble some place, or are you
turning in early this evening?" She questioned, not particularly feeling like being cooped up in her
room for the next several hours.
Alaric:
Alaric stood silent, watching the two young lovers converse. Fabian stood strong, yet hesitant. Alaric
thought it showed in his words. "Amuria this is your path and your choosing, I shall follow your
decision here."
The other lover was nonchalant. Alaric's presence failed to phase her. He suspected it had to do with
her latent magical potency waiting to manifest. Alaric was far more pleased about this than anyone
realized. For decades, he lived among those uninitiated in the craft. He almost forgot what it was like
talking to another Mage; Skilled and unafraid, equally powerful in all respects to him. Even someone
so new to the craft like Amuria had the ability of resisting his aura. Amuria nodded politely at Alaric,
"By your lead, I am ready."
"Fabian," Alaric said, gesturing toward the lone stone. "If you would take your position and begin
playing. Also.." Alaric's voice trailed off as he held out his white dragon bone staff to him. "If you
would kindly lay this at the base on the stone for safe keeping, please?"
[insert Fabian's response. Will continue RP as he is agrees, but can make needed modifications for
additional interactions. I am writing only what Alaric is physically doing, just because I am not
entirely sure what Amuria will do while Alaric speaks.]
Soft music played, complimenting the crackling of the fire and and ambient sound of nature. Alaric
turns toward the fire, his raven black hair and robes swirled around him before coming to rest. He
ran his hand across his face, pushing his hair away so he could get a better look at the first while he
walked toward it in rhythm with Fabian's notes. He speaks. His words are strong, carrying up
toward the heavens.
The Chantry teaches of the Maker
The Dalish happen to disagree
They preach of Corellon Larethian
The Dwarves believe in a separate god
They worship the forge god Moridan
The Qunari worship no high gods
They follow The Askarri Koslun
All hint at a Creator God
At the beginning, it was there
Actualizing its vision
Author of all that can exist
Alaric arrived at the edge of the fire pit. Hot flames barely licked the hem of his robe. The glow of the
fire reflected off his unblinking stare. He remained there, bathing in the nearly overwhelming heat.
Alaric began to wander the border of the flame, his eyes locked with the fire.
Creator God made the Veil
Cause of all mystical art
Creator God made the Planes
Creating life to dwell there
Gods of Old were made next
Great and Powerful all
Gods that gave gifts freely
Grants insight on the craft
Tonight we praise them
To give honor due
Today we give thanks
To the craft we use
He finished his revolution around the fire pit, wandering back toward Amuria. His every movement
in perfect harmony with Fabian's music.
Kell:
[Short Reply]
Kell laughed along with Kethrii after she joked about showing up in a ridiculous outfit to the
meeting. "Well, it seems our evening has been freed up... care to get into trouble some place, or are
you turning in early this evening?" She questioned.
Kell smiled and pushed himself off the wall. “I’m always up for some trouble. Have something in
mind?”
Amuria:
Amuria began moving around the fire, not having anything more to add to the chant. She waited a
moment for the spirits to guide her. Suddenly, out of the fire burst a ribbon of blue smoke. Perhaps
only the two mages could see it, perhaps only Amuria could see it. Whatever it was, it glided through
the air like the silk fabric over her soft figure. The trail of smoke entered her body as if the spirits
themselves had placed a part of them inside her, and her body began to move in exact rhythm with
her beloved's gentle tune.
She began to lose herself, seeing her body in third person from the stars. She moved near Alaric and
the two began moving around each other in sync. Almost like an elaborately rehearsed play, the two
moved like they had been dancing for years. Again, Amuria was having an out of body experience
during the ritual.
Her body began to rise farther into the heavens until she was in space, her form glowing as it slid
into the stars. She began to see visions, the darkspawn, the evils of the land, and the good that
would always out shine them. She was among her ancestors, though not in their bodily forms, she
knew them all. They began showing her different paths she was meant to take. It was revealed to
her the extent of her powers, which were among the strongest. A star began to supernova, as she
watched her full potential be unlocked.
(This was all I could come up with. I hope it works.)
Fabian:
Fabian watched as the two danced. he felt out of place, like he was suddenly a third wheel. He
became slightly more agitated as the two danced closer, the way they just, let go. Amurias eyes lit up,
staring deeply at the mage. Everything about this bugged Fabian, he was growing jealous. He tried
so hard to restrain himself, but suddenly he caved. he simply stopped playing and stood attentively.
Not saying a word, just giving the mage a cold stare.
Amuria:
Dancing happily, Amuria's body was controlled by the spirit inside her and the music. When Fabian
stopped playing, it made the spirit angry and not wanting to give up Amuria's body, left a piece of it's
self behind. Amuria's eyes turned a deep orange and stared Fabian down, walking over to him
aggressively. Before she could get close, Amuria's consciousness was sucked back into her body,
forcing the spirit out and knocking her over. "Ow ...", She said, laying on the ground and closing her
eyes a moment. Through blurred vision, she could see the spirit forming into a man ... It wasn't a
spirit, it was a Demon! And it was headed straight for Alaric.
Kethrii:
"Well, it seems our evening has been freed up... care to get into trouble some place, or are you
turning in early this evening?" She questioned, not particularly feeling like being cooped up in her
room for the next several hours.
Kell smiled and pushed himself off the wall. “I’m always up for some trouble. Have something in
mind?”
Kethrii paused a moment, considering the options before chuckling. "Not... in the least," she
admitted honestly. "But... you did say drinking was a warrior's foremost form of entertainment.
There is always the tavern..." she offered. "Otherwise, how long have you been in town? There are
always a few sights to see..." She shrugged, pushing herself away from the window ledge and giving
Allard a pat. "Always trouble to be had... Unless you'd prefer a quiet evening. Maybe a game or two
of cards to go along with that drinking?"
Kell:
Kell smiled and pushed himself off the wall. “I’m always up for some trouble. Have something in
mind?”
Kethrii paused a moment, before chuckling. "Not... in the least," she admitted honestly. "But... you
did say drinking was a warrior's foremost form of entertainment. There is always the tavern..." she
offered. "Otherwise, how long have you been in town? There are always a few sights to see..." She
shrugged, pushing herself away from the window ledge and giving Allard a pat. "Always trouble to
be had... Unless you'd prefer a quiet evening. Maybe a game or two of cards to go along with that
drinking?"
“Aye, a few drinks…or more sounds good. I was actually only passing through town though, so if you
think there are some sights worth showing, then by all means.” He grinned before continuing. “As
for cards, well if you’ll recall, my last game was less than pleasant and ended with me in debt. But
maybe my luck’s changed since then."
Alaric:
It fell apart too quickly. Alaric heard Fabian's instrument fall silent. The melodic jingle of Amuria's
jewelry ceased. The entire area fell completely unnaturally silent, as if he went deaf. Nothing. Not a
single sound was heard. He could feel the magical energies from the ritual fragmentize, then
shooting off in nearly infinite directions at unimaginable speed, ripping the fragile fabric of
existence in its wake. The ritual was broken.
Alaric stood perfectly still, observing as much as he could of the area. His cold, analytic mind
understood the consequences of their actions. The ritual paid tribute to existence, to everything at
once. It attempted to channel all of reality through the body of the magic user, allowing everything
to become one, just for a moment. The magical energies operated as a way to reflect everything
safely into the magic user and to bind it in a way so that reality would not be harmed.
He watched and waited for what felt like an eternity. It felt like everything stopped. It was in times
like this that the mind started to wander. For Alaric, it wandered to the Second Rule of
Magic: Everything magic gives must be paid for.
"And when those gifts aren't respected," Alaric said coldly. "The price becomes greater."
As soon as those words escaped Alaric's lips, he heard something new. Something that sent a chill
down his spine. Alaric turned around slowly, pivoting off his right foot, uncertain what he was about
to face. Would it be friend or foe? Deity or monster? Whatever it was, it did not belong in this
dimension. He let his hair fall in front of his face, darkening whatever the shadows cast by the fire
did not hide.
Alaric saw something akin to a man standing in front of the body of Amuria. He, for lack of better
words, stood tall and proud, observing his surroundings with careful precision. The creature was not
wearing clothing, though he had nothing to hide. His body was mock perfection, mirroring the male
body in almost all respects save one. His eyes were like fire, turning his gaze towards the White
Necromancer. He grinned, revealing two rows of sharp, jagged teeth.
Alaric wasted no time. He filled his aura with his necromantic power to protect himself and
announce his presence to this thing. His energies surrounded him, burning like a black flame. The
creature cocked his head and laughed at the futile display of power. Alaric could only grimace.
Alaric did not count on the creature to have dissected his power this quickly. Without his white
dragon bone staff, Alaric could not safely weave his spells. The power he wielded was far too great
for any human to bear. He needed the staff, or the wand, to cast or else the potency of necromancy
would eat away at his own life force and destroy it. Alaric knew this. The creature knew this as well.
It turned away from Alaric and began to leave. Alaric extended his arm out, opened his hand so that
his palm faced the thing, and muttered through clenched teeth, "Mingala." A single bolt of midnight
blue lightning shot from his palm and harmlessly hit the creature. The creature stopped moving and
turned to face Alaric.
"You're not going anywhere," Alaric shouted with all the force and authority he could muster. It
wasn't much, because he was fighting not to scream in agony.
The creature unleashed his own tremendous power, pressing hard against Alaric's aura. It felt
overwhelming. Alaric felt like a scarecrow trying to stand to the the power of a tornado. He couldn't
push back. It was all he could do to maintain his ground. But as quickly as the creature attacked
Alaric's aura, it stopped.
Alaric's eyes widened.
It was testing him. The creature was testing Alaric's defenses and the limits of his power. It had a
fair measure of what Alaric could do and was capable of.
The creature turned again to leave.
Alaric gritted his teeth and pushed out his aura as far as it could go, touching the creature's power.
The creature slowly turned again to face Alaric. It looked annoyed and engaged in magical combat,
aura against aura. Alaric grinned. Though it hurt him a great deal, this was the form of combat that
Alaric excelled at. Despite the creature's dominant power, this was the arena Alaric stood the best
chance at.
Ten thousand hammers
Glass Palace Defense
Repulsion
Gateway
Dragonfire
Fireward
Shade's Illusion
Blinding Flash
Firequake
Wall of the Weird
Binding
Armor Bizarre
Garden of the Flesh
Wall of Iron
Numbing Madness
Sphere of Negation
Creeping Doom
Obscurement
Incendiary Cloud
Trap the Soul
Spell Immunity
Imprisonment
Crystal Brittle
Temporal Stasis
Annihilate
Impenetrable Wall of Force
Blood and Thunder
Alaric broke contact with the creature, stumbling backwards. The strain was getting to be too great
on his body. He felt his veins screaming and bursting. His heart felt like it was about to give out. His
skin boiled. The creature stared at Alaric indifferently. Alaric looked up at the creature defiantly
before collapsing. He lost consciousness soon after.
The creature left.
Amuria:
Amuria watched paralyzed as the demon and Alaric fought. She pulled her hand up to her face, a
mark was burning its way into her and and what appeared to be a closed eyelid, she momentarily
lost consciousness as the demonic mark finished creating it's self. When she regained consciousness,
she quickly sat up just in time to see Alaric falling. Time seemed to slow as she ran over, catching his
head in her lap.
"Alaric!", She called out, lightly tapping the side of his face. She had no idea what had just happened
or what had caused the spirit to move through her. The mark on her hand even appeared to be gone,
making her think she had fallen into a dream. She looked at Fabian. "G-Get help. Do something!"
Kethrii:
"I was actually only passing through town though, so if you think there are some sights worth
showing, then by all means.” Kell grinned before continuing. “As for cards, well if you’ll recall, my
last game was less than pleasant and ended with me in debt. But maybe my luck’s changed since
then."
Kethrii shrugged a bit as she headed over to him. "Well, the sights depends on how well-traveled you
are and how many similar towns you've already seen," she commended before a wry grin appeared
on her face. "But for the cards... I was rather hoping your luck hadn't changed just yet. A lady-rogue
has to take all the advantages she can get, right?" She grinned broadly, elbowing him good-naturedly
as she walked by, only pausing for a moment in the doorway to glance back at the warrior. "Though I
guess if you're already in debt... beating you won't do me much good. I suppose I'll have to let you
win a little first..." She winked and with that, disappeared around the corner into the hallway.
Kell:
"Though I guess if you're already in debt... beating you won't do me much good. I suppose I'll have to
let you win a little first..." Kethrii winked and with that, disappeared around the corner into the
hallway.
Kell looked over at Allard and said, “I think I might be coming back with empty pockets after
tonight.” Allard let out a small bark, practically signaling his agreement.
Kell shook his head, smiling, and left the room to catch up with Kethrii, saying, “Well if you plan on
possessing all the money tonight, then I guess that means drinks are on you.”
Fabian:
Fabian snapped from his daze. the whole time he had been confused. was that a demon? INSIDE his
Amuria? no, Alaric wouldn't be so reckless as to risk turning her into an abomination, would he?
"Alaric!", Amuria called out, lightly tapping the side of his face. She looked at Fabian. "G-Get help.
Do something!"
"I'm on it!" He turned and sprinted faster than he had ever run, back towards the keep. the path was
long and windy, he tripped a few times, grazing his hands before he reached the keep. he saw the
guards who had tried to arrest him before standing around.
"HEY! you guys! i need a hand out here! the mage has fallen to....something...JUST C'MON!"
Amuria:
"I'm on it!", Fabian shouted back, his eyes as big as saucers. Amuria pried her eyes from where he
was standing and turned back to Alaric, who was still out cold. She weighed her options, she could
either drain her energy to heal him, or wait until help arrived. By the way his skin was bubbling, she
knew it couldn't be healed by natural means. "Ancestors, guide me. Do not let that demon come back
... Not now." She prayed, knowing the work of a spirit healer inevitably drew the attention of
demons. But the spell she was about to cast was a special one, one that went straight to her powers
and drew energy from her soul. It was a spell her mother had taught her, and only those in her
family would know it. And though it may not be very powerful, it would keep him alive. And that was
worth it for her.
She pulled her wand out of her bust and began to chant slowly and quietly, as her body began to
glow a white tone. "Yume no seishin wa, watashi no tamashī o michibiku watashi no te o michibiki,
watashi no jumon o michibiku. Watashi wa kare ga zentai no tame ni watashi no enerugī o gisei ni
watashi no meiyo aru mono o iyasu." (Spirit of dreams, guide my hands, guide my soul, guide my
spells. Heal my honored ones, I sacrifice my energy to make him whole) She raised her wand up
breathing into it and the glow from her aura went into the tip of her wand. She then pointed it at
Alaric and it went into his body, stopping the bubbling of his skin.
Amuria held her head when the spell was over, she then noticed the mark on the back of her hand. It
began to burn once more, painfully. It's ... It's real? My spells make it burn? ... Is that ... An Eye ... A
closed eye? She ran her fingers over the bump on her hand, the eyelid seemed to twitch. She gasped
a little. A Demon eye was living on the back of her hand.
Kethrii:
Sneaking out without the Teryn's guards making a fuss had been disappointingly easy, and after a
brief tour of the small town center to point out a few of the evening's available activities and sights, it
was quickly decided by the pair of adventurers that drinks were in order.
As it turned out, the local inn served far more palatable ale than the Thieves' Guild and they were
now on their third round. At least... Kethrii thought it was their third. She'd lost count of what hand
of cards they were on.
The young rogue eyed her cards skeptically, looking between her meager pile of coins and Kell's ever
growing stack. "Have you had enough of a beating yet? Are you ready to give in?" she questioned
with a grin, taking a large drink from her tankard.
[Reply Kell]
Kethrii laughed at that, offering up a shrug. "Hey, I'm simply biding my time... waiting for the prime
opportunity to strike!" She attempted to look somewhat hurt. "That's what rogues do, after all, is it
not?"
Alaric:
Alaric stood in his room at Hamelton's Keep, alone. His room was silent. Feeling empty. After a few
moments,he noticed a crimson glow coming through his window. He hastily moved to look through
it. Outside, a rolling fog filled the area. He could see nothing. Not the courtyard. Not the streets of
the village. Not even his reflection in the window. Particles of moisture within the fog were
luminescent. Outside of the fog, there was only darkness.
Alaric stared into the fog for a few moments until the first scream shattered the quiet night. Then
more voices joined the first, and the night air sung with shouts of pain and screams of terror. Alaric
tried to move but his feet were stuck to the floor. He was no longer at his room in the Keep. He was
standing in the Thieves Guild. His window, however, still looks upon the same scene.
"Don't mind the screams, friend," Teryn Hamelton said politely as he handed Alaric a crystal goblet
filled with a coppery smelling dark red liquid. "It's only the dying villagers. No need to worry. You
will join the growing symphony soon."
Alaric helplessly watched something move through the fog, coming closer to him. The figure was
donned in dark, tattered robes. The hood covered the head and face, though Alaric could make out
wisps of long, silver hair spilling from the hood's shadow-filled opening. The hands emerged from
the sleeves. They were gnarled, pale appendages that were more bone than flesh. The robe....Alaric's
eyes moved to the robes....it was made of spider webbing. Dozens of large, black spiders crawled
over the tattered surface, constantly weaving more web to keep the robes from fraying apart.
I'm in the Fade....
I'm in the Fade....
I'm in the Fade....
I'm in the Fade....
Alaric's eyes widened in horror, realizing where he was. The Fade. I'm in The Fade....the robed figure
stopped outside the window, looking in. Alaric's hand was shaking, losing grip of the crystal goblet.
It fell and shattered, crystal shards piercing his feet and legs.He screamed in agony, joining the
song.
"The game begins Alaric Magus," the robed figure spoke in a low, raspy voice. "You are not mine
yet. But you will be savored until you awaken tomorrow."
Alaric shrieked in torment.
Amuria healed Alaric's physical wounds. His skin no longer boiled. In fact, he looked healthy and
peaceful thanks to her healing craft. He appeared to be having a good night's rest.
Kell:
"Have you had enough of a beating yet? Are you ready to give in?" Kethrii questioned with a grin,
taking a large drink from her tankard.
Kell eyed the discrepancy between their piles of coins with a raised eyebrow and responded with his
own grin, saying, “You know Kethrii, most people would ask for their opponent to surrender when
they actually have the advantage.”
Kethrii laughed at that, and shrugged. "Hey, I'm simply biding my time... waiting for the prime
opportunity to strike!" She looked somewhat hurt. "That's what rogues do, after all, is it not?"
“How should I know?”, Kell said before draining the rest of his own tankard. He gave her a wry grin
as he put the tankard back on the table. “You rouges are much too subtle and cunning to allow a
simple warrior, such as myself, to discern your methods.”
Kethrii:
"Hey, I'm simply biding my time... waiting for the prime opportunity to strike!" Kethrii feigned a
hurt expression. "That's what rogues do, after all, is it not?"
“How should I know?” Kell said, draining the rest of his tankard before shooting her a wry grin.
“You rouges are much too subtle and cunning to allow a simple warrior, such as myself, to discern
your methods.”
"Pfsh!" Kethrii laughed outright. "Flattery, my dear warrior... will get you nowhere, I'm afraid," she
commented, laying down an excellent hand face-up before her. The chances Kell had a good enough
hand to beat her were slim. A cocky grin spread across her face as she leaned back in her chair,
hands behind her head. "But please... at least allow me to buy you another round with my new-found
riches."
Kell:
"Pfsh!” Kethrii laughed. "Flattery, my dear warrior... will get you nowhere, I'm afraid," she
commented, laying her hand face-up before her. A cocky grin spread across her face as she leaned
back in her chair, hands behind her head. "But please... at least allow me to buy you another round
with my new-found riches."
Kell’s face fell as he saw Kethrii’s cards, her hand easily beating his. He placed his cards on the table
and said, “Two rounds. One for a good game.” A smile tugged at the corners of his mouth as he
continued, “The second, for leading me to believe that I could actually win against you in cards.”
Kethrii:
Kethrii watched as Kell's face fell the moment he saw her hand of cards, and she knew her instincts
were correct. There was no way his hand was beating her own. Clearly beaten, he placed his cards on
the table with a faint smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.
"Two rounds," he corrected her good-naturedly. "One for a good game. The second, for leading me
to believe that I could actually win against you in cards."
Kethrii laughed heartily at that, reaching across the table to slid her winnings over. "Two rounds, it
is, sir!" she admitted, signalling for the barkeep to refill the warrior's drink. "Despite your loss... you
have to admit," Kethrii leaned forward, one elbow on the table as she took another drink of her own.
"This is way more entertaining than being cooped up in the keep." The red-haired elf grinned. "Now,
would you care to attempt to win some of this back? I'm not entirely sure I can carry it all out of
here..." she teased.