Fantasy Call to Arms: The Raven Knights

[Onikuma]

Roderick's attention was shifted at the sudden appearance of Asbjørn, the mountain of a man dwarfing everyone around him as he stepped into view. Before Roderick could get out a response, another Knight came forward. He knew her as Mari, but that was the extent of it, having done very little in the way of training with her during his years at the Grove. She was a little younger than both himself and Asbjørn, but was nonetheless respected within their community. Roderick offered them both a smile, extending a hand in Asbjørn's direction. "It has been many years, indeed. It's good to see you once again, old friend." His tone was warm, welcoming. He was genuinely happy to have someone ride along that he knew and trusted. "I would be delighted to have you ride with me. Your aid in this matter will surely be a boon."


He then turned his attention to Mari, giving her a quick nod. "Lady Capocaccia-Whitewave, fear not, you interrupt nothing. Asbjørn and I would be honored to have you accompany us to Arranhall. We need all the help we can get." Roderick scanned out behind them and into the sea of faces that bobbled up and down. His brow furrowed, his mind in question as to the motives of those around him. "Now we see who else can step away from the glory of conquest. Few enjoy handling words, I've learned. Steel and magic are the dominant calling. Hmmm.. I suppose it's a needless concern. If a fourth does not step forward, we can fill that position with Lord Fjordson's ale," he said with a chuckle.


@HumansArentReal @StarBabyPixel


---

Castle Blackmarsh
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Flesh; rotting, decayed. A heavy stench fills the air that is reminiscent of death, as does an aura of darkness. An unnatural pressure, weighing upon Yaro from seemingly nowhere. The ruins of the ancient Castle Blackmarsh once served as home to King Ordis Strongbeard, the man responsible for the one hundred year War on Magic. Many souls came to pass here, and their spirits seemed to call out from the very walls of the ruins. Through the entrance, the grand hall sprawls out to a staircase, leading upward to the second floor. What was once a place of immaculate nature, the structures were now in shambles. Benches, old and covered in webs lay tossed aside in the hall. Fungus grew from the stone walls that held what was left of the castle in place. The stairs were beginning to crumble, unsafe to the steps of those unaware. It was cold, much colder than the world outside. Almost as if Castle Blackmarsh had not been touched by light.. warmth.. or life in centuries.


From the center of the great hall, one could see a series of four wooden doors lining the walls of the second floor, two to either side. Each one was closed, hiding their secrets within.


@Andraus

 

[Andraus]

Yaro Azar
​

@Onikuma @Hatt730 @Moolock
​

Yaro would be examining the halls of this once grand castle. Were it not for the immediate problem of the Revenant, he would love to explore it in greater detail. Not to mention, a place like this that had not been touched for so long....It was bound to have treasure, ripe for the taking! As Yaro moved towards the Great Hall, he felt something tick his shoe, before looking down. Kneeling down, he'd reach over, and pick up a old ring. Running a finger over the dust, it was ornate, jewel studded....and likely valuable. That was just another tick towards his goal: His Adventurers guild! Hopefully, he could sell this for a fair price, and get more silver towards funding his guild permit. But for now, it was time to kill a Revenant.


Yaro would keep walking, until he was in the Great hall, seeing the four doors on the Second floor. Yaro would then hold up his hand. "In the name of all I hold sacred, I shall pick one of the doors....Enie, meanie, miney, you. "He said, pointing at the second door on the left side. Yaro would then walk up the stairs slowly, careful to avoid causing a loud noise from the creaking wood, before opening said door with his hand, carefully pushing it open....

 

[Lexi Whittaker]

"We could always grab some ale on the way out." She said as she walked in. Ylva showed up with a fresh flask of water and a bit of bread in her hand. She smiled at the group in front of her as if to apologize for her tardiness. She  figured as a healer her power may be best utilized with a smaller group, but her indecisiveness was always one of her weaknesses. The remainder of knights should be able to protect and defend, so she chose to accompany the group. 


"Pardon my lateness. " She said placing the bread in her satchel. "I had quite the day." 


She stood feeling fearless, but unsure of the unknown. "Let's go on this journey, shall we?" 

 

[RunicFollower]

Reynald arrived at Montiven only due to someone asking him for help on his way to Ravens Grove, they were looking for a sell sword to kill some creature that had been plaguing Montiven. He figured since it was west of Ravens Grove he would lend a hand free of charge. The man that he was helping told him it was some creature of death and killed anyone that got to close to Castle. Reynald approached the castle with caution he grasped his necklace and uttered a small prayer before entering . The darkness loomed over him, the feeling was crushing and the smell it was the smell of death, so potent it made him want to gag. Reynald composed himself and kept walking his spear clutched in his hands. He heard footsteps from above and began making his way to the second floor only to hear some yell hog wash and the say enie, meanie, miney, you. Reynald thought that this person could not in there right mind be playing a child's game to see what path fate takes them but against this thought he went through the door he pointed and Reynald began tailing the man quietly and slowly not to give away his presence to this man or the monster that stalks these halls.


@Andraus

 

[BlightGiver]

To Fjord, the better choice was obvious. There was no way in hell anyone could convince him to travel to a densely packed capital city. Even more so since King Dedrick himself and his guard resided there. "That place is the epitome of narcissism. I'd rather take my chances with the undead beast!" he declared in solitude, scratching his right cheek while doing so. But Fjord would get to do exactly that, since his silence at Roderick's offer sealed his fate; he would have to join up with others and fight the necrotic horror. 


Now one might think that confusion gas wouldn't exactly be the best magic to use against a product of necromancy, and they'd be totally correct. Fjord, on the other hand, did not think in this way. To him, taking on a challenge such as this would be a bit of sport, even if it could spell his potential demise. "Best case scenario; this revenant just wants a drink. If that's the case, I'm the perfect guy for this mission. Worst case scenario......nothing!" Fjord chuckled. "My trusty axe can do plenty of damage."


Fjord's opinion would ultimately change when he read the bio Lady Gwynnevere had prepared for the Grove's knights. His eyes opened wider with each sentence he read. "I really might be out of my league here. Getting up close to this guy would be a damned death sentence!" Fjord grumbled in frustration. He took a moment of silence to let the anger dissipate, along with his inebriation. "Hmm...." he pondered; surely there was some way he could raise his chances or survival, even slightly. Fjord paced in circles, his boots clomping against the hard floor beneath him. His gaze kept ahead of him, he didn't notice a large rock in his path. The expected collision happened; Fjord falling right in his stomach. "Ah! Damned rock!" he yelled. Red in the face, he picked up the rock and threw it away from himself. Fjord watched it travel through air and land on the ground with a loud thud; then something clicked in Fjord's dwarf brain. "Eureka! Looks like this ole dwarf's got some tinkering to do!" he exclaimed. With whatever he came up with in mind, Fjord sprinted to his quarters, grinning the whole way there.

 

[Hatt730]

Gareath Woodstock



[SIZE=14.666666666666666px]Gareath face lit up to know Kira would be going to Montiven. His fidgeting thumbs turning into fidgeting hands as he rubbed them rather excitedly. "I don't really know anyone!" He spoke gleefully, mostly excited that he had a familiar to talk to. A small smile on his cherubic face appeared as he continued, "I hope that I could remain then."  Then it disappeared slowly." I... " He thought for a second, trying to choose words that didn’t make him sound dumb. “I don’t think it would be possible though, that dead bastard seems like it would take a lot people… and if one were to enter,” - misunderstanding the pronoun as a quantitative - “would it m[/SIZE][SIZE=14.6667px]atter if a few more did?” He moved quickly off idle thought, looking around almost comically; Mari, Asbj[/SIZE]⌀rn [SIZE=14.666666666666666px]a[/SIZE][SIZE=14.666666666666666px]nd Ylva seemed to be missing and most likely with Roderick. [/SIZE]


 

[SIZE=14.666666666666666px]Gareath heard the shout of triumph behind him, spinning around to see the drunken Dwarf running away to the Knight’s quarters. “Maybe we should follow him. He seems to know what he’s doing.” He nodded, a little too enthusiastically, even for him it was a far past his comfort zone to see why he had been running. Maybe it wasn’t even for the quest. “Or…” He coughed, clearing the flem once again from his thought. His Ma had been right that he should have worn something a little thicker than his light leather armour. “We could just leave now.” His hands going faster, allowing trickles of electricity to occasionally be visible but the ultimate aim was the excess heat that warmed them.[/SIZE]


The small man found his eyes travel across the ground towards those feet who belonged to Haldisa. Would Haldisa be going? They had never talked but maybe she would know better.  


[SIZE=14.666666666666666px]@Moolock[/SIZE] @NostalgiaOwl

 

[Moolock]

Kira glanced toward the group leaving with Roderick, then her gaze slid to the dwarf, glowing red as ever with the ale. If he was going to make it to Montiven after them, she hoped he'd be sober. She fought with a drunk dwarf once. A shudder. Not good memories. "I'll go with or on that one, if it's all the same with you," Kira muttered. She nodded to Gareath and made her way out of the clearing to her horse, who tossed his head a little at her arrival. Finley, not the prettiest beast, a barrel-shaped Shire horse and rather shaggy. His coat was mostly black with some streaks and splotches of grey, giving off the appearance of a crow-turned-horse but he was sweet, calm, and sturdy. She flicked her gaze to Gareath's hands and tightened her gaze, siphoning a bit of heat from the static. No harm in building up some for later.


Shoving her foot into the stirrup, she hauled herself up and onto the saddle, looking to Gareath. "Need a ride or brought your own?" Finley was plenty strong for two, though he'd need a rest once they got to Montiven. While she waited for an answer, Kira undid the tie of one of her saddlebags and pulled out a very heavy cloak, and pulled it on over the one she was already wearing and drew up both hoods. Already, she felt warm, and began concentrating the excess heat to her hands. Anyone else that wanted to come could catch up. There'd no doubt be Ravens when they got there as that was the quickest way to get through to the Grove. The Revenant would be bottle-necking them, at least she hoped. While she continued to wait, she gradually drew heat from the other Ravens in the area- not enough to be noticed other than perhaps with a small shiver. Shifting her gaze, even through her gloves she could see her fingers gradually growing from red to orange. She smirked, glad to have the head start. "We'll probably meet more Ravens at Montiven," she told Gareath, voicing her thoughts. "After all, it's the most direct way here."


@Hatt730

 

[Onikuma]

Roderick was gladdened at the sight of Ylva, the wait for their fourth volunteer now over. He offered her a smirk as he slung a pack of miscellaneous goods over his shoulder. "Well, there's no need for ale now that you've joined our little ragtag crew. But yes, I believe we've all had quite the day, no?" He motioned for the group to follow him to the stables, eager to get out on the road now that there was nothing keeping them there. "So, our mission isn't going to be as simple as we might be lead to believe. But then again, nothing ever is in our line of work." As they reached the stables, Roderick moved over to his horse, a beautiful, black thoroughbred, roughly sixteen hands high. He removed the pack from his shoulder and strapped it to the saddle, then gave the horse a quick pat before jumping on. "Tensions are high in Arranhall since the Prince's death. King Dedrick, from what I've heard, isn't entirely right in the head. Understandably so, of course. Nonetheless, we'll need to be tactical in our approach. We musn't risk saying the wrong thing and getting sent to the stocks."


Roderick and his horse trotted out of the stables, positioning themselves on the trail to Montiven. He watched as others were packing up and riding out, no doubt on the hunt for the undead beast. He pulled out a rolled up map from his bags, charting their course while he waited for the other three to catch up to him.


@HumansArentReal @Lexi Whittaker @StarBabyPixel


---

Castle Blackmarsh
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The second door on the left side, when opened, was revealed to be the kitchens. Like everything else in these ruins, it was no exception that it too was in shambles. A series of stone counters lined the wall to the right. To the left, a large hearth and a cauldron for boiling and cooking respectively. The center of the room, however, had been cleared out of any debris and in the center was a fire pit, several logs still smoldering quietly, giving off the only bit of light amid the darkness. Someone had been here... and recently at that.


@Andraus @RunicFollower

 

[Skaia]

Nym uprooted himself from his seat and waved off Roderick's words, there would be no hunt for him. Yes, he was indeed a knight of the realm and his oath held him to the defense of the kingdom, but there were still things he felt he shouldn't draw his swords towards. That monstrous thing within Montiven was none of his concern. He would leave that rubbish to the other knights that seemed eager to test their metal; he felt as though they would brandish their swords for just any opportunity. These were not the quality of knights he would associate himself with at the current time; he wanted answers. Nym set off to seek council from the only man he knew would not be so brash in his actions, not that he felt Roderick was, but there were occasions where steel mattered not. He ventured deeper with the stone hallways of the Grove where they were lined with statues of the knights of the old order, the heroes and heroines of the past. He never stopped to pay respect or awe at these figures, his views have always been indifferent towards what he was taught here. He sought to end the fights before they could begin, he never drew his sword or used his bow if the situation could be resolve without excessive violence. This is what it had meant to be an elf, to never take life meaninglessly. Yet, here under human rule battle seemed to be worshiped and honed and he'd been reluctant to show his gratitude for his training. 


"It seems your mind is a ends with itself," the words carried a touch of humor to them. Alluin had stood to the far end of the hallway, offering a simple smile to the young elf that now came into view. "I wish you would lighten the worries of the world from your heart. Nym, you are a voice among your people, there are far too few knights that share your concern for the consequences of war. Yet, with that said, Roderick has always steered your thick headed-ness in the right direction. I implore you to follow your companions to Montiven, you may find it wise to seek friendship in others." Alluin had always seen turmoil in Nym's heart. He watched him grow and cope with the lose of eighteen years of his life to a council he shared no relation to and a King that he viewed as merely a mortal man eager to use them as obedient dogs. It saddened him to see a man at constant war with his mind and soul, it reminded him of his younger self. Yet, with age and duty come wisdom and he'd yet to see that spark of hope in Nym's eyes. Only time and the gloom of the uncertain future would shape these young knights, or it might just grind them all away as the machines of war always did with fragile souls. For now, Alluin remained hopeful, ever optimistic of a better future and quick solution to the old enemies of the past. 


Nym offered no answer, nor any expression towards his mentor, he like very few knew what weighed deep upon Nym's heart. Yet, there was always something to be said, nothing was left in the dark with these men. "I have no fear of the consequences that are to stir from the council's decision. I fear that we have far too little information of what is transpiring. Roderick and his company are seeking answers from the King while the others rush to Montiven to meet this undead creature that Lady Gwynnever has warned us about. These are not my trials to pursue, Master Alluin, I want to seek answer from the keeper of the archives here at the Grove. I may be handy with steel and arrows, but you always taught me that knowing your enemy is the better half the battle." Nym offered the same cocky smile he had always given his teacher after any lecture he'd given him. He did his best to absorb all he could from the lessons this man had drilled into his daily training when he was a youngling, but now it was time for him to pave a different path. He trusted his fellow knights, but he did not share their haste in this matter. Even if he were to spend a fortnight searching for the answer to this blight, then he would. He wanted to know about the war of old, the war that almost drove the realm into sheer darkness. 

 

[NightQueen]

Nymeria


Nymeria had spent the few weeks heading for Ravensgrove hard. Urging her horse on as she left the deserts of her home behind. She was feeling a bit fatigued from the journey but this was due to not being in contact with the ground. However based on the urgency of the news from the council, she moved quickly heading north following the same path she had been taken on as a baby to first begin her training. Because of the distance traveled, groups of Knights had already left bound for different locations.


Leaving her horse and gear, she went into the room used for meetings of the Knights. She waited for her instructions patiently, knowing that the council was never rushed in these decisions and that knights were sent were they could be most helpful. She was told that she would be joining the group heading for Arranhall. Her experience with Political matters being of possible assistance to the group heading for the city.


Nodding her head, she left the room to check on her things. The group had not left yet so that gave her time. Replenishing her supplies, she pulled the sack onto her back and made her way to the stables to check on her horse. The good thing was that she learnt to pack and travel light. Putting her gear onto her horse, she made her way to the group she was travelling with on her horses back.


"Hail, I have been instructed to join you on the journey to Arranhall"


Nymeria called out to the group that had been pointed out to her. Pulling her horse up she introduced herself


"I'm Nymeria, from the city of Jivala. The council decreed that my experience in regards to politics may help in the mission to Arranhall"


She announced to the group, giving a small nod of respect to the gathered group.


@Onikuma @HumansArentReal @Lexi Whittaker @StarBabyPixel

 

[Lexi Whittaker]

Ylva had no idea what really she was getting herself into. She had always thought of herself as more of a people's person, she let the others deal with politics and the lot. She had no real desire to get herself involved, but she felt like today she was drawn to this. 


She threw her bag across her shoulder. She swept her hand over her horse, he was a beautiful white and grey color.  She climbed on, and blankly stared at the back of Roderick's head for a moment trying to remember their childhood. A moment later she was snapped out of her thought by a new arrival. Sylvia looked at the newcomer skeptically, and then back at Roderick to have him declare a final verdict.  She looked at the women with just a hint of newfounded recognition. 


"Quite the day," She sighed while patting her horse. She knew it was just the beginning to a long journey ahead. 

 

[idalie]

Asbjørn Agnarsson
​

Wrapping his large palm around Roderick's in a firm, steely handshake, Asbjørn arched his brow at the newest arrivals. "Mari and Ylva, isn't it?  All these familiar faces are having a bad effect of nostalgia." A hearty, baritone laugh resonated within his chest. Rubbing his palms together, he cracked his knuckles by habit and followed Sir Vale's lead into the stables. "Sounds like exactly the kind of half-cooked idea I expect. But no worries, I'll be on my best behaviour." A playful grin, once more lit up his bear-like features, moving into the stable for his own steed. A mighty chestnut-speckled beast, which was possibly the representation of its owner. A warhorse bred more for short bursts of speed and trampling men rather than elegance and grace. Nonetheless, Agnarsson treated the animal as if a child. He'd always had a soft spot for animals, something to be said about a man who often hunted them. The horse still saddled and clad in what he'd brought, eased the transition as he swung himself up upon the creature, grasping the reigns. Feet tucked into the stirrups.
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​

"If anyone wants to ride with me, I'm not opposed to it." If nothing else, the Knight had a wonderful sense of waggish humour. Winking, Asbjørn followed Roderick, albeit a slower pace for the other two stragglers to catch up. Surprised by the interruption, Agnarsson shrugged, glancing between Sir Vale and the rest of the group. "Aye lass, but this mission is Sir Vale's over here. None of my business who comes along." Clicking his tongue, Bjørn brought the horse around in another circle. "Be careful Roderick, we might just be outnumbered three to two."
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@Onikuma @StarBabyPixel @Lexi Whittaker @Haus Of Alaska
​

 

[Hatt730]

Gareath Woodstock


 

[SIZE=14.6667px]Gareath had travelled by carriage mostly, he had walked his way up from Montiven since the carriage rider had felt weary going too close to the crossroad because the disappearance of several coachmen, rumours had spread that it was in relation to the beasts in the woods. Gareath nodded compliantly, “Yes, please.” He exhaled a small nervous snort, “I forgot mine.” He didn’t exactly forget but his memory wasn’t entirely good either. He did have horses… his Ma had several Shire horses that helped pull logs and undoubtedly, Ma would have given up those several if Gareath had wanted just one. Gareath didn’t have the heart to even ask for money. Ma had thought of everything, exception to travel, of course. Gareath didn’t sought out independence but he wasn’t able to take advantage of Ma’s generosity either. [/SIZE]

"Have you got a problem with my shoes?" [SIZE=14.666666666666666px]Gareath certainly thought that they seemed a bit too big for her Dwarven feet but in reality, he hadn’t notice anything different about her. Gareath wasn’t all too observant of people… maybe the shoes were new? And so Gareath raised his[/SIZE][SIZE=14.6667px] [/SIZE][SIZE=14.6667px] [/SIZE][SIZE=14.6667px]l[/SIZE][SIZE=14.6667px]ong-fingered hands up in front of him, reassuring her he had meant no harm. “N-no, of course not!” He spoke quickly, instantly bashful. “I mean, they do look a bit big- Not to say you’re small-” Choking on his own words, he looked back to Kira and then to Haldisa in quite a panic- he was digging his own grave. He coughed with the intention to change topic. “Haldisa, is it?” He asked, extending one of his hands that were previously rubbing his other.[/SIZE]


@NostalgiaOwl @Moolock

 

[BlightGiver]

Fjord finally gathered with the rest of what he assumed was the group heading out to Montiven. "Looks like these guys don't enjoy the city either." he mumbled. Fjord dragged his feet along the ground, stumbling and mumbling to himself; he seemed just as drunk as ever. In reality, he was just trying to hold in his excitement as best as he could. It's not often he gets to partake in some action; the last battle with a beast being over a year prior. And with his new "toys" in hand, he felt more than ready to take on the Revenant.


"Greetings everyone." he pleasantly said as he walked up to his horse. "I take it you're all going after the Revenant too?" Twas a pointless question to ask, but Fjord asked it anyways. Although, it would seem his travel companions had their minds focused on other issues. Two of them, a female dwarf and a pretty tall guy, he heard fighting over the size of the dwarf's shoes before. "I really hope they aren't like that always." Fjord thought in silence.


He got onto his horse, using a stepping stool, and saddled up. The animal winced when Fjord hopped onto its back; it shook its head as the scent of alcohol flooded its nostrils. "I'm ready to head out when y'all are." Fjord mentioned. But that patient sentence was quite a farce;Fjord's eagerness to head to battle being all he could really think about right now. "Gotta stay focused," he decided. "And what better way to do that than with my good ole friend." Fjord pulled out a bottle of rum, labeled "Tree Essence"; this being one bottle he never tried before, he popped it open and immediately chugged a quarter of it. The fresh aftertaste just being a delight to him. "Aah, now that's the stuff!" he declared and put the bottle away.


@Hatt730   @NostalgiaOwl  @Moolock

 

[caYabo]

[SIZE=14.666666666666666px]Jaxon took in the words of his heroes stoically, his mind turning over their interactions in turn. As an unblooded knight of the order he felt it was probably better for him to be seen rather than heard. [/SIZE][SIZE=14.666666666666666px]Youth has it’s advantages, wisdom isn’t one of them. [/SIZE][SIZE=14.666666666666666px]More of[/SIZE][SIZE=14.666666666666666px] [/SIZE][SIZE=14.666666666666666px]Magister Curley’s words, the man had an adage for everything it seemed and he was rarely afraid to make them heard. His thoughts were interrupted as he saw his friend Gareath make his exit, followed shortly by Fjord. They were headed towards the stables. Their abrupt leave could only mean they were headed to Montiven, presumably to deal with the revenant causing havoc at the town’s expense. Jaxon hefted his warhammer [/SIZE][SIZE=14.666666666666666px]Frostbite[/SIZE][SIZE=14.666666666666666px] and made to follow.[/SIZE]


 

[SIZE=14.666666666666666px]He came upon the motley crew saddling their horses and making preparations to leave. Jaxon gathered his own mount, a stout dwarvish pony he’d taken to calling Snapper, on account of the beast’s penchant for nipping at anything within reach. As he neared the group words of Gareath’s and Haldisa’s confrontation reached his ears and he decided to save the young man, he knew him to be a good soul, but rather awkward at times. [/SIZE]


 

[SIZE=14.666666666666666px]“Ho Gareath! Is this the group headed to Montiven?” He called loudly in the pair’s direction. He hoped his interruption would give the young man a way out of his predicament. He noted with some consternation Fjord’s presence, the dwarf had a reputation as a fierce fighter, and even fiercer drinker. [/SIZE]

 

[Onikuma]

As the others gradually caught up to Roderick's position, he continued his conversation with Asbjørn to pass the moments. "Half-cooked? Perhaps. We're not really left with much to plan. Lord Knight Valacath serves as King Dedrick's advisor and even he is opting out. Whatever is going on in Arranhall isn't something we should try to predict, but rather, do our best to prepare for." Roderick's gaze shifted at the sudden appearance of a newcomer; a woman of difference, curiously out of place but yet she somehow still belonged. "It's a pleasure, Lady Nymeria. As my friend here Asbjørn mentioned, I am Roderick Vale and I am indeed leading this party. It's curious that you'd be assigned to ride with us. I suppose the Council has yet to see we've met our quota. Nonetheless, extra help is better than none. Please, join us." He then turned to Asbjørn with a devilish grin. "What's the matter? Those should be the kind of odds you like." Roderick chuckled, then got himself situated for the ride. "Alright. We've got our numbers. We've got our mounts. Let us get to Arranhall. YAH!" He yelled out as he commanded his horse forward, riding at full speed through the trail to Montiven. If they maintained pace, they could be at the gates of Arranhall within a couple days time. Even still, riding out past Montiven before the sun rises would put them where they needed to be to make that time.


@HumansArentReal @Lexi Whittaker @StarBabyPixel @Haus Of Alaska

 

[Tanfam]

Elya spent the past week riding all the way to the Ravens council, having heard the summons. It was rare for the Knights to assemble. The conditions must be bad. She finds her way towards the convoy that was just leaving to Montiven and stops a nearby horse archer. Elya shows him the Emblem of the knights that signifies her membership in this elite force. The archer smiles as he points the way towards the main group. 


As Elya trotters in, she couldn't help but to recognize some old faces during her time training. She rides up to Asbjorn and raises her hand in a peaceful gesture.


"Salutations."


*Note about this horse archer guy. I assume the Raven Knights is an organization that also has auxlliary units in its private army...and I assume NPCs will supplement the other Raven Knights that join this expedition...because if the only knights in the world are the roleplayers knights...then the Raven knight organization would be very sparse indeed...


@HumansArentReal

 

[Andraus]

Yaro Azar
​

@Onikuma @Hatt730 @Moolock @RunicFollower
​

 
​

Yaro would look inside the room, and sighed. "Nothing....damn..." He said, before stepping into the room, careful to watch for traps. He would then open up one of the drawers, before finding....a set of silver utensils. Taking them, he'd place them in his bag. "Alright, that is another dent in the cash I need..."He said, before walking towards the camp, sitting down next to the fire pit. "Embers are still present....Rubble was moved intentionally...signs of habitation....Well, that explains where the Revenant came from....but for what purpose? Why bring it here?" He asked himself, rubbing his chin. No-one in their right mind would bring a Revenant into a building without a reason. Was this an Accident, or on purpose? If on purpose, for what?


For now, He had a more immediate problem to face.


Yaro felt a pair of eyes on him. Now, Yaro was not a rash person by any.....Oh what was he saying? HE WAS A COMPLETLEY RASH PERSON! Acting true to his nature, Yaro reached for an arrow in his quiver, and spun almost in the blink of an eye, retracting an arrow, as he pointed it towards the person behind him. He was, however, surprised to see it was...Reynald. He was a Raven Knight in the same age group as Yaro. However, where as Reynald followed their orders and code to the letter, Yaro constantly questioned. This lead to heads butting, and where as Yaro left (escaped) the Raven Knights, Reynald likely stayed and continued his training.


Perfect. Absolutely Perfect.


Yaro would lower his bow, before sighing. "Well, Reynald.....or is it 'Sir' Reynald now?" Yaro asked, placing the arrow back in his quiver, and his bow on his back. Yaro knew he was a renegade, a traitor in the eyes of many, but Yaro still held respect for the Raven Knights....even if he doubted they held the same respect in return. Hell, he probably didn't expect Yaro to be alive! "Didn't expect you guys to start taking mercenary work. What are you doing here?" Yaro asked. If he was getting help (even if it was reluctant) he would have to, by his own moral code, split the share of the loot.

 

[Moolock]

An eyebrow raised at his saying he forgot a horse. Carriage, then? Probably. She began saddling up for two, paused when Finley tossed his head, and continued doing a more gentle job with securing the pillion saddle for Gareath. For extra comfort, she draped a folded blanket over it. "Get on when you're ready," she muttered to him, "I hope to get there quickly." Kira didn't realize just how warm she was until she guided her gaze into the reds and found that her hands had shifted orange. Continuing to ready Finley for the ride, the crow kept her eyes focused in those hues to monitor her drafting. Under the heavy cloak, Kira shifted in discomfort. In her head, she ran over what she would do when she got to Montiven, what would first make her life fighting easier: Find or create a sizable fire. That would give her all the heat she'd need to aid in combat. 


Kira huffed as the dwarf woman approached and disconnected from their conversation, vaguely aware her riding companion was stammering over her shoes. Another knight called over for her riding companion, at which she let out a nice sigh. The banter could wait. If the conversation ended quickly, they could be on the road within five minutes, she estimated. As she waited, Kira nestled into her cloak, hoping to get warmer. She knew her limits, sort of, and she knew the wind while riding would wick away her warmth almost as quickly as she could preserve it. Better save up now as she guessed she'd only have 75% or so left by the time they reached Montiven. "Gareath," she called again, "Shall we?" As the tipsy dwarf joined them, she pulled her hood down to hide a frown. Yet another joined, he seemed to know Gareath. Great, full house... at this rate we won't be on the road for another hour. 


@Hatt730

 

[RunicFollower]

Reynald still tailing the man would watch as he was taking silverware and the make his way to the fire pit. He saw him investigating it and Reynald thought, did someone staying here with this creature just what was he up against. Just as he finished his thought he saw the man make a reflexive movement Reynald picked up that this man was going to draw his bow on him. Quickly stepping back Reynald drew his spear and brought it to the mans throat just as the man pointed the bow and arrow at this, already drawn but he recognized this man it was Yaro.  He pulled back his spear and gave a sigh of relief." Long time no see Yaro, glad you still recognize me, I'm here investigating some creature I got word of on my way back to Ravens Grove I'm not here for the money I'm here because it's my duty and if you're here for the creature as well allow me to assist you." Reynald said


@Andraus

 

[Andraus]

Yaro Azar
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@Onikuma @Hatt730 @Moolock @RunicFollower
​

 


Yaro would stare at him, honestly surprised by the....positive reception, but none the lest pleased. The warm smile he always wore on his face was present now. "Let it never be said I am not a man of honor. Even if you're here because of duty, what we find here, we split between ourselves. I owe it to you for your trust in me. I know not many Raven Knights would do the same. " Yaro said, before looking over, placing his bow away, and drawing his knife. "I only recently came myself, but so far I have yet to see what else this place holds for us....We should keep moving. "He said to him.


 


Yaro would then walk out with Reynald. Honestly, Yaro was surprised that he wasn't berating him for doing Raven Knight-type work, or that he was alive and a renegade. Despite this, Yaro was at least pleased that he had someone to watch his back, and if it was the order, then he was in good hands. Deciding to not waste anymore time, Yaro would hold up his hand towards Reynald, before opening the first door on the left side, wanting to cross out both rooms in his search.

 

[Onikuma]

Castle Blackmarsh
​

 
​

The first door on the left side was revealed to be a storage closet housing all kinds of odds and ends. Trinkets from a lost time, clothes, tattered over the years. Drawers and cupboards carelessly tossed around. One could easily spend hours getting lost digging through the trove of miscellaneous wares. After the door had opened, a wave of silence washed over the darkness; a strange, eerie silence, A silence that was suddenly broken by a shrill scream, followed by an awful spilling sound that echoed out behind the doors on the opposite side of the stairwell. As soon as it had come, it was gone, only to have that strange silence once again return. The moon was high in the evening sky by this point, and it's light was beginning to shine through the entrance of the ruins. The pressure in the air was growing stronger.


@Andraus @RunicFollower @Hatt730 @Moolock

 

[RunicFollower]

Yaro held his hand up as he opened the first door. As soon as he opened the door it was as if the pressure in the room increased as if the gravity was intensified. This creature whatever it left a wake of dread in it's path, as soon as the door was opened a scream was heard behind them after that silence soon followed. Reynald quickly turned around and stared at wooden doors behind them. " The scream came from here only problem is which one is the door that housed the scream" Reynald pondered outloud. Reynald thought of the splitting up but that was dangerous due to the creature still being widely unknown maybe that was it's plan to get them to split up. Reynald looking through the closet and then smashed one of the cupboards, grabbing a large piece of wood he held it out. " Yaro can you light this, if we travel down these hallways we would be surrounded by darkness and the creature would have us at a disadvantage." Reynald said 


@Andraus

 

[StarBabyPixel]

Mari gave Nymeria a small wave and rolled her eyes at the two men, shaking her head slightly, mulling over the 'even the King's adviser doesn't want to be there' comment. "I guess, we haven't started hitting each other with anything so we still have a little to go before it's really nostalgic." a shy grin crept over her face accompanied by a small chuckle. 


She walked over to her steed and tried not to look incredibly uncomfortable around the horses, doing everything she could to avoid touching them with her bare skin, gently batting her brown and white Drum horse's face away from her's as he tried to nuzzle her. She checked a list of supplies she had with her in her head, gently patting her horse's neck as he reared his head and stomped "Hush Creed, I'll brush you the next time we stop you silly creature" She huffed, patting his neck and strapping her bag securely to the saddle, gracefully pulling herself up and nudging her horse to follow  "Onwards!"


@HumansArentReal @Lexi Whittaker @Haus Of Alaska @Onikuma

 

[Hatt730]

Gareath Woodstock
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[SIZE=14.666666666666666px]Gareath could only really stare at the inebriated man. He could see the appeal in alcoholic beverage before a jaunty ride but one before a terrifying one, seemed… unappealing. Gareath didn’t know what to say, he was rather flabbergasted. At least in some way, his drunkenness was consistent and he seemed enthusiastic but in another - the horse wincing seemed to make Gareath wince as well. Hopefully that’s all Fjord did to make the horse wince. [/SIZE]


 

[SIZE=14.666666666666666px]Hearing his name being called, he was in awe to meet Jaxon - his longest and most familiar friend. They had been around each other, not under the same teacher but were in the same quarters and had hung around each other during independent studying. Gareath felt naturally pulled to Jaxon, mostly because he was a Dwarf and Gareath was more familiar in that family tree than the his father’s in [/SIZE][SIZE=14.666666666666666px]Illyndryll[/SIZE][SIZE=14.666666666666666px].“Well, hello!” He greeted excitedly, a massive grin meeting his eyes. He had long forgotten the reason why they were out here at all, in fact it made the situation seem more like a social gathering than a quest to fight the Montiven undead monster. “Ah, yes -” He began before having Kira seemingly poke a metaphorical big stick to jog his memory that he wasn’t here to chatter. After he exhaled another nervous laughter and a sort of fearful thought of what would happen if he didn’t move quickly, he complied to Kira’s frustrated request - more like demand. [/SIZE]


 

[SIZE=14.6667px]Upon sitting on Kira’s horse, Haldisa spoke up and he had realised he completely ignored Haldisa. It wasn’t really his fault, he had a one track mind and he [/SIZE][SIZE=14.6667px]wasn't[/SIZE][SIZE=14.6667px] entirely the best observer. However he hoped he hadn’t wounded Haldisa’s ego or soil any potential friendship in the long run. Especially since Gareath had admired her so back in his time within the Raven Grove, and especially since Gareath had learnt back at home not to mention any words related to size around his uncles. He had a slightly crooked nose to prove that. [/SIZE]


 

[SIZE=14.666666666666666px]“Perhaps, we should go now.” He suggested, gingerly - not wanting to stir up any more frustration with Kira or Haldisa.[/SIZE]


[SIZE=14.6667px]If anything, the later they went the darker it would get and the stronger the beast would be. [/SIZE]


 


@NostalgiaOwl @Moolock @BlightGiver @caYabo