Fantasy The Chosen and Condemned

[AlannaTrebond]

"If ever discontent should rise in Lesei, so too shall rise the fallen children of the seven kingdoms. Those who are named and revealed as Condemned only the tainted heirloom of then Angel of the Abyss that they wield. Upon first touching the heirlooms shall each become the embodiment of the seven sins. From there they shall wreak havoc upon the realms of Lesei until defeated or the Angel of the Abyss is revived. Only one hope shall I grant you, Lesei! For when the Condemned awake, so too shall the enlightened be Chosen and revealed by their holy items. The seven forgotten virtues of this world shall they embody. Together, only they can defeat the fallen."

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So spoken was the curse that Seradia, the last great Seer of the Elves, set upon the world of Lesei as she was burned by representatives of all the kingdoms.
​

Two thousand years ago, in the world of Lesei, the half-elves of the world formed the kingdom Forlock. The Seer, Seradia, was burned at the stake because she had spoken a prophecy of destruction, which was unheard of and forbidden in the public at the time. Since she died, there hasn't been a single person in Lesei that could tell the future like she could. Two hundred years ago, the Chosen and the Condemned awakened, and fought- a long and bloody event called the Great Rising. That was the last time they were sent to the world- until now.
​

​

In the walled kingdom of Tal'lial, the Arch-Mage controls the people. However, the elves and dwarves have been observing the squabbling between the humans, and a certain renegade group of elves decided to act. One night, they sneak into the fortress of Tal'lial and in the dead of night, capture the Arch-Mage's daughter and took her away to an unknown location.


The moment the girl's father found out, he was enraged. He immediately blamed the people of Seikaitsu and the Crescent Islands, for they were allied against them. The rulers claimed innocence, and it looked like there would be war.


Then, it happened- across all of Lesei, there was a moment of silence. Then, it was followed by a loud, booming voice. The voice said only one thing, but it was something that would change the world.


"And so the Awakening begins."
​

 

[Jayden Kisubo]

Taliesin awoke from a restless slumber early in the morning. He blinked his sightless eyes while doing a quick check of himself, confused as to what woke him. Then flashes of the visions passed through his mind. He didn't see anything except for the regions each Chosen was from, but he heard a voice, so familiar yet so alien to him, describing what each looked like. He also had felt what the Chosen items would be like to him. He hadn't wanted these dreams, yet they had come to him since the Awakening had begun one week ago. He now knew from a vision each night what each Chosen looked like and where they hailed from. He still didn't understand the fact that he got the visions, but he knew it signaled that he was the Guide for this cycle. He sighed and ran his hand through his silver hair before tying it back in his usual loose tail. that finished he pulled on his clothing and walked from his room, naturally barefoot.


As he stepped quietly through his Inn, the Nightingale's Keep, he took in the bodies he felt through the wood of the floorboards. No one else had come in after he had retired, and no one had left. That was good, it meant he knew everyone that was in the inn at this moment. There were only five people here including the barkeep he left in charge when he was away from the city. It made it easier that the inn was not known outside of the regulars and all new clients had to be approved first. It was how Taliesin kept his assassin business safe, as well as he information network. Walking out of the inn, he jumped from the trees it was nestled in and looked up at it. He smiled for probable the millionth time at what it looked like. It was an Elven style structure, made directly from the trees and plants around it by using magic to ask them to grow around the shape he had had in mind at the time. (

Spoiler

)


He turned from the Inn after asking the forest to hide it once again and began to run. He was heading for the city of Eldrid. Nightingale's Keep wasn't that far from it, but Taliesin took the long way around to also get in his exercise for the day. He slowed down only when he came upon the road that led into the city, since it would look weird for him to be running when there wasn't any reason for it. He headed for the docks as he had gotten a letter that one of his informants from the Islands would be here today. He slowed as he got closer to the wooden docks, as there was less earth or plants for his sight, he didn't like being on them for too long. He didn't get far before he heard the voice of the female pirate he was looking for. He waved to her direction in greeting and smiled before speaking. "So, did she come this time?" He heard the woman laugh, "She just went down the central street about ten minutes ago looking for your Inn. I think she was going to ask a local." The woman snorted in amusment, knowing how that would go since the Inn was a highly guarded secret. Taliesin smiled and nodded his thanks before walking away. He stepped into some of the trees that lined the street a little further away from the docks and focus his mind on his animal half. He soon changed in a small pure white bunny and hopped away. He was grateful he had learned about the magic cloth that shifters in Forlock wore to change their clothes with them. It made things less awkward now. He wiggled his nose and tried not to hop too far off the ground as he moved, since he still couldn't see in this form. It wasn't long before he found the scent he was looking for and followed it to a woman he knew had long fiery red hair that was currently trying to ask a couple of people about Nightingale's Keep. He hopped up to her and ran into her leg to get her attention.

 

[AlannaTrebond]

Syra stepped off of the ship with a small sigh of relief. She had to admit that she was glad to be on land again. She scanned the docks, looking for a familiar face, but wasn't surprised that she didn't see one. Okay, what was the name again? Nightingale's Keep? That felt about right. Nodding to herself, she started walking through the town, occasionally asking someone if they knew how to get to the inn that she was told about. Everyone she asked, however, seemed mostly confused. She stopped after a while, planting a hand on her hip with a sigh. Did I get the name wrong? She wondered, frowning. Her right hand went to the dagger at her side. She looked at it, thinking. If I was an inn run by a blind half-elf, where would I be...?


Syra continued a little further, finding a couple and asking them about it as well, but they just looked at her oddly, said that there was no such place, and walked away. Now she was starting to get annoyed. Her mood picked up considerably, however, when she saw a white rabbit nearby. "Hello, bunny." She picked it up and hugged it, not even considering that the rabbit might be the rabbit-shifter that helped her before.


Location: Forlock-Eldrid


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Alessia struggled through she woods, shaking her head. She had no idea where she was, or why. However, she had to remind herself that she was lucky to have gotten out at all. Of course, it would have been nice if she had been able to save a dagger to get the ropes off of her hands. However, she was worried that she'd be recaptured if she remained there longer than absolutely necessary, so she ran for it. She leaned against a tree with a heavy sigh, looking down at her tied hands. The rope had barely loosened, to her disappointment. She wasn't sure why they bothered, though. Without her magic, she was pretty much helpless. Since they gave her magebane- a type of poison that prevented magic- in her water, she was surprised that they were concerned at all considering that. "Ugh." She scowled. She was tired and helpless, an easy target for bandits, or... anything, really, and she hated it.


Location: Delmah-???


------------------


Mal walked though the town, eying the various shops on the way. She had just been lectured- again- for her friendship with a certain necromancer, but was one of the annoyances that she tolerated. She mostly ignored the lectures, but couldn't help but question their judgement. Who were they to say that they were right? Nothing in Helm's teachings had anything about necromancers, so how could they imply that they shouldn't be friends? It didn't make sense. As she walked, she saw a weapons shop, squealed, and entered.


Some girls liked shopping for clothes. Mal, on the other hand, liked other things.


Mal immediately began to examine the wares, not noticing-or perhaps pretending not to notice- that the merchant gulped. Of course, those that knew what her adoptive father did without her knowledge wouldn't be surprised... or perhaps it was because of Mal herself. She was possibly one of the strangest people to call Forlock "home", after all. She looked over the weapons with an expert eye, picked up a Morning Star, and shook her head, quickly returning it. When her eyes landed on a battleaxe, her entire face lit up. As she picked it up, she grinned even wider. "It's perfect!" She looked up, hoping to see the shopkeeper right there, to notice that he was against the farthest wall, talking to another customer. She blinked, tilting her head to the side. She put the battleaxe she found away before drawing her own, bringing her arm back...


And throwing it with almost inhuman strength.


It sunk into the wall, inches away from the merchant's face. He screamed and jumped back, falling on his back. Mal gave a sweet smile, picked up the other battleaxe, and walked over to him. "I'd like to buy this one, please." She gestured to the one that was partially in the wall. "That's part of the payment. Here's the rest." She said, taking some coins out of a pouch at her waist and putting it down on the table.


"Y-you could have killed me!" The merchant shouted, as if it was the only thing that he could think of.


Mal blinked and frowned slightly. "If I wanted to kill you, I would have." She said. It was meant to be reassuring, but it had the opposite effect. Mal couldn't understand why he was so worried. She never missed, and there was enough leftover money for him to repair the wall. She shrugged. "Can I take this?" The merchant nodded mutely, but as she left, she heard him say something about telling her 'mage friend' something, but she wasn't listening. She had a new battleaxe!


Location: Forlock-Eldrid

 

[Vengeance Spirit]

Varisitis woke up slowly, she took a moment to look around and then at her body. She noticed that her skin was still pink and there was an absence of a tail. She thought to herself Good. I didn't forget to form last night. She stood up and looked down at the bed to make sure there were no unwanted guests...Previously a stalker had crept into her bed at night and caught her scaly form. This made Varisitis have to deal with him by quietly explaining to him why we don't sneak into others' rooms. Explaining thoroughly, one finger at a time, and then a leg...And then the whole head came off. Varisitis doesn't like others intruding on her, this was a personal offense as she saw it. She put on a simple green dress that held tightly to her body. She knew playing tricks on a man's primal urge was one of the best ways to control him. She learned this through years of working as a bar mistress. She took up a mirror and looked at her pale human face and thought Helga...Helga Strongsnout. I am no longer Varisitis as I walk out this door. She placed down the mirror and made her way down the hallway and toward the stairs.


Helga had finally arrived to the main room of the tavern, it was large and nicely decorated. Even though it was the morning, the place was buzzing with people's conversations. The forests had always attracted adventurers, new faces always appeared as well as old faces disappearing. Helga didn't seem to really notice the shifts after a while, only for the people who interested her. In her mind, it wouldn't matter if half of them died and the other half lived. As long as she was paid, she didn't mind. She began to cook breakfast, it was early. The windows in the tavern allowed the sun to penetrate through, creating a lively atmosphere. Helga hated her tavern more than anything...She wanted more, she wanted power. A young man approached her, she wasn't too sure if he was new or not. But he wasn't important to her. Short, stocky with messy blonde hair that reminded her of a closet mop. He looked at her and smiled flirtatiously saying "You know...I'm an adventurer? You know what that means doll?" That you'll hopefully die soon She thought to herself but said out loud "What my dear?" playing along with his stupid game. The strange lad went on and said "That I can whisk you away from here." She laughed in a flirty way and said "Do you have enough money to?" He said "Wh-What?" She responded "A girl has her needs...Diamonds are mine." The boy scratched his head and searched his empty pockets saying "N-No...But what does that have to do with true love." She said in a straight voice "The only love in my life is whats in the pockets, not whats inbetween them." The boy looked back towards a group of his friends who were laughing hysterically. He then turned to her and stared into her eyes thinking of something clever to say before he began his walk of shame back to their table. Nothing came and he ended up walking back with his head slumped downward staring at the rugs that colored the floors.


Helga was bored with this tavern. It surely paid to be near a hidden elven city that everyone wanted to find, but it wasn't enough. She thought to herself All I need is one noble man to walk in...These form changes will allow me to follow after him. I can find out what he likes. Maybe what I have down there doesn't please him, luckily it doesn't change my abilities. She chuckled at her ingenious plan, smiling sinisterly. The food she was cooking had finally stopped, she took out the roasted deer and drizzled it in garlic. She then took some dried pomegranate out of the fireplace. She looked around the busy room and said "Breakfast, guys. Eat up." As people spoke in the mornings, they moved closer. Several people trying to flirt with her, or compliment her beauty. And each time they did, she pictured a new murder technique for them. She thought Another dreaded day at this tavern...Another coin made...Another pot cooked...Another young man's hope's destroyed. The tavern was a great place for rumors, people were constantly speaking amongst one another about current events...Helga was kept always knowing about what happened in the various kingdoms, but atlas, there was still no open window for her rise to power.

 

[NetherLightGod]

ƸӜƷ

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"Let us dance...until the end of this life..."

​

Oh, The mornings were so glorious. For all who were not the girl known as Saigyouji Ayakashi. She despised mornings as they presented her with her least favorite celestial body. The sun. The bright yellow sun who taunted her every single day, burning her with its bright rays of light. She had always preferred the suns younger sister, Lady Luna. The moon. Saigyouji wiped the sleep from her eyes and yawned a bit as she ran her fingers through her hair. "It will not be a glorious day for me...I sense very few who seek my wisdom today. Its saddening..." Saigyouji spoke lowly to herself as she shuffled from her bed and headed to her bathing room where she took a quick bath and departed from the room. Once she had returned to her bedroom, she snapped her fingers and her usual attire appeared on her body. She chuckled lightly to herself and her expression quickly turned dark. "My, My, My...It seems I've forgotten to water my blossom...can't leave without doing that..." She spoke lowly as she sunk into the floor of her bedroom, appearing in a rather large basement. In the large basement house a very large, yet leafless tree with a giant magic circle underneath it. At the base of the tree was a young woman who had looked like she had been beaten and starved for days. The girl heard Saigyouji's footsteps and cringed but couldn't flee as she was shackled to the ground.


Saigyouji smiled and knelt down next to the girl before harshly cutting the womans chest in the shape of a heart. The woman screeched and began to thrash. Even though being cut hurt, the leafless tree who was now feasting on her blood, was hurting her a lot more. Once Saigyouji was satisfied, she placed a hand on the girls wound and it healed and the tree has stopped causing the girl pain. The girl began to weep. "J-Just kill me already..."


Saigyouji seemed to ignore the girls plea. "Oh, I can't give her too much blood, I won't want to spoil her after all. She'll start asking for larger quantities. I thank you for your donation however..." Those were Saigyouji's last words before she left the girl and the tree, heading out to the streets of Seikaitsu where she posted her stand near the castle, waiting patiently for a customer to ask for her services.

 

[Killigrew]

Hakim al Rashid

The lantern cast long, shifting rays of light, shadows making its shape. It swung to and fro at the front of the wagon, hanging from a rod of wood hastily crafted in. The horse's uneven gait pulled it along, a lull in the beast's back right foot. Every step forged a path, the grass parted along their way, and the focus of the travellers' gaze was on the welcoming orange glow that illuminated a small area just before forest.


The Crescent Isles were more welcoming than Hakim had hoped. The locals had been wary of his dotted ears, and of the dusty tan of his skin that preached desert, but Seiketsu cloth, blue and rough, that clung tight to his shoulders, chafed at his middle, had been enough to abate their ready hostility. They saw him as a trader's apprentice, his brother the same, and Emily as a hired sword. That was all they were meant to be, for now.


And what were they truly? They were what their clothes said. Princes no longer, exiles with no home, taking on the covering in an attempt to cover the dire straits of their duress.


The lies that had once been truth were ready, folded neatly in a trunk, buried beneath four layers of strange fruit, and shuffled by the prance of the wagon. Hakim had not shared all his thoughts with Harun and Emily, but he did not need to. Their loyalty remained, and he believed they all sought the same end.


Cast out from Corona's great city, sent adrift by sea to the Marauder's Keep, he and all that had denied the Orc upstart traveled by land from there to Seiketsu's royal city, with naught but the jewels they had smuggled, the clothes on their back, and the weapons they had been permitted. There were seven of them in total. Hakim thought them loyal. But in the month that they had spent waiting for an audience with the Seiketsu King, the temptations of this merit-based society pulled away that mask of gallantry, and all that remained was the simple wants of every man, to feed their stomachs and live in comfort.


The princes were abandoned again. Hakim took it lightly. It was a mere chopping away at the fat. Now he had those whose words were true, Emily and Harud. He did not know what he would do if it had been anyone else, but with them, hope glowed still.


Harud must be king; no land but Corona would do. He did not know if Harud himself shared this ambition, but it didn't matter; the will of Badriyah was absolute now. Especially now; the image of Badriyah in death compelled Hakim with greater power than the form of Badriyah in life. His mother's headless body on a stage, the rolling of her thick dark hair, still vibrant in the desert sun, and the red that poured with so bright a hue that it seemed to absorb all vision did flood his mind like the swell of ocean. At every closing of his eye, he saw her, and in his dreams he did not escape the motion of the blade.


The haunting carved dark circles under his green eyes, and turned every meal to ash in his mouth. Impatience gripped him.


That, more than anything, was what spurred him to believe the story Harud brought back from his wanderings in Seiketsu's city. Hakim needed to do something, and waiting had made his mind too taut to think fluidly.


In Harud's tale, he told of Rusalka, these friendly water spirits known only by folk tales, were as true as any man alive. They had messengers sent out through every great city, and they sought some hero that could wield a sharp wit and a keen eye that he might undo some spell cast on the Rusalka chieftain's only child.


Mention of the Crescent Isles brought on further thought. In such a place that stood in conflict with Corona, perhaps their role as princes still had some pull. It was vwry likely that word of the princes' exile had yet to meet their shores. These Rusalka, if they were true, could perhaps be a greater ally than Seiketsu. Hakim thought it a better course than one in stagnant water, and they were off.


Having fallen in with a strange merchant that smelled of mold and moss, they traversed the continent from the high spires of Vesperia to the bright waters of Talial's Divine Port. Mycoid, the merchant nomad, paid for their passage to the Isles, and they in turn assisted in his business, accomplishing odd jobs ranging from lugging weighty boxes to charming customers.


The scent of his strange fruit became a familiar aroma, a companion to travel. Even now, on the roadside, the air thick with moisture and his nostrils damp with the irritation brought on by vegetation, the scent permeated.


The weary travellers rolled to a slow stop in front of the tavern doors. Hakim and the rest waited outside as Mycoid bartered with the tavern keeper for a night's stay, which had come to be an almost ceremonial habit. The price set, and the group set into motion, unstrapping the horse and wheeling the cart into the storehouse.


The cart would with its fruits bathe all edible things in there with its odor. Hakim did not envy the tavern keeper this.


Hakim took the reins for the horse to take it to the stables, but before he set off, he placed a hand on his brother's shoulder, leaning close to speak softly.


"You said the Rusalka would be found in the great lake within this very forest. Might you seek some news of them here?" Hakim broke away with an encouraging pat, and nodded toward where he believed Emily stood as a signal for loose guardianship.


His eyes did not raise or lower, however. They were carefully half-closed and unfocused in the motion. It was a display of discomfort, and the awareness of his discomfort made him the more uncomfortable. He had yet to adjust to beholding the bare faces of women. Even though he had known Emily since he was a mere boy, her uncovered visage came as too intimate a sight.


Hakim, believing his direction conveyed, towed away the brown and limping beast for the stables to care for it.

 

[Vengeance Spirit]

Helga watched them enter, she was interested...They were different from the others, she thought to herself Could they be noble. Inspecting their clothing, she was used to seeing people wearing weaker fabrics. Usually the commoner's clothing went patternless, for a majority were made by their family. She knew this was a tailor's work, she narrowed her eyes and thought again Is this the time...Has the underworld granted my plan a chance...But which one. She examined Myocoid as he walked over to bargain the prices, she was unamused and unshaken. She didn't change the prices she set in motion, although she did listen intently to the way Myocoid spoke. She thought to herself This one will not do...Royal bloods don't speak like that. Referring to his common tongue. She looked through the window to see the other two by the door and thought I need to hear them speak...This will confirm my suspicions.


Helga didn't want to make it obvious that she was inspecting them. She had a feeling that she might want Hakim, she could sense something about him...Maybe it was the way he walked or the subtle movements he made. They were outlandish, prissy and overall they were perfect in her mind. She wanted him. She really did. Not in the way a husband wants a wife nor the way a peasant lusts over a brothel wench. To her, it was a need. She needed whatever he had in power, like a starving man needed food. This was not a want, it was a need. She knew she needed him more than anything, she continued to examine him. Any moment he came near her, she would batter her eyes and smile in a flirtatious way. Her large brown eyes illuminated as the perfect smile created a look of deceitful innocence. It was a real smile this time, not like the others. She pushed out her chest and made it clear that she wanted him. She put her voice in a higher pitch, laughing at any idiotic thing that was done near to show that she was willing. She was happy...At least, in her twisted definition of it. She took a few deep breaths, planning on what to say. She thought As a bar-mistress. I may be able to pry a bit. Maybe he has had a past wife...or maybe some lover...or maybe even a knight. She knew it didn't matter for her diadem would provide well.

 

[Jayden Kisubo]

Moving through the forest was no easy feat on the islands for a normal person, even though a normal person had offensive abilities. Now, as Katelina moved through the trees, she wished she had something more offensive in her magics. She had almost been attacked by three wolves, and seen two snakes. Each time she'd thrown up one of her ice barriers, using the moisture caused by the recent storms in the forest. She was starting to become very tired and needed to make it to the tavern she'd been told about.


She blinked as she stepped out of the forest suddenly and almost suddenly without the trees in her face. Looking around she realized she was on the only road in the area and sighed in relief. She'd memorized a map before hand and thought about using the road, but her mind said a straight path through the forest would be easier. Of course her sister didn't tell her about the snakes. She shuddered thinking about them and began walking towards the lights she could see in the distance.


When she got closer she was relieved to realize it was the tavern she had made her destination. She stopped suddenly and looked down, realizing that while she'd been careful not to rip or tear her obviously royal clothing, it was still dirty as it was her normal white. Frowning, she made a ball of water from the air and watched as it ran over every inch of herself, from hair to sandals in a cleansing sweep. Her nose wrinkled at the dirt that was now trapped in the ball, happy with her dress now being its pristine white and her arm bands their untarnished gold once again. Before she moved towards the tavern she drew out excess moisture from her hair and clothing and looked around. She saw a barn and went into it. Ignoring the man in there, she looked for a water trough.


Going into a stall, she saw a kitten mewling pitifully and went to him. The tom-cat's hind leg had been bitten and he was bleeding a lot. She hummed and glanced around before cleansing the water she had carried in, and then applying it to the wound. Closing her eyes, she concentrated on the water and the cats fluids. She used the water to make sure the wound was clean and safe before coaxing the blood on the wound to give up its moisture and clot. Opening her eyes, she smiled when she saw the cat's leg was much better. A quick bandage later, she spoke for the first time in her low, soft tones. "Now, mister Kitty, try to stay off it and don't go picking fights anymore. I've seen men more well behaved then you." She laughed at herself, knowing her sister would object to the comment about men. Rising, she left the stall after depositing the once again clean water in that trough. Humming, she twirled through the stables until her white hair got in the way and she ran into a brown horse. "Oops. Sorry." She cringed upon noticing a man standing there. He wasn't of the Islands, so she knew to apologize.


(Sorry, I'm really not use to posts this long. Hope it was okay >.<)

 

[AlannaTrebond]

Rilla sighed when she got to the capital of Corona, Mezzai. It had been a long journey from the Azure City to Port Alahira, and she for one was somewhat tired. She sat on her horse, looking around. She saw robed and veiled women, and men stared at her openly for how she dressed. As she dismounted, she saw a man step towards her. He spoke quickly, so the only things she understood that he said was 'crescent' and 'whore'. She frowned. "Even the men of Valhalla know better." She glanced at her guards, who stared stoically at the man. "Very well." She manipulated the water in the air, surrounding the man in a water bubble for a minute. She quickly let it go, however. He stared at her, horrified. "Manners will get you anywhere." She commented, then left the soaking wet man behind as she headed towards the castle.


Location: Corona-Mezzai


@Robertaka123

 

[Robertaka123]

Rorik's armor had become a symbol of not only his power, but of the power he brought to Corona. So whenever he was not sleeping he always had it on, it had become his suit and tie. Wandering the streets was a favorite past time for him, although the guards begged to let them stay near him to make sure he was safe he insisted that having guards surround him was a sign of weakness. Most civilians would treat him with the utmost respect when seeing the suit of armor walking around, and a whole personal guards trailing not too far behind him. So a disturbance in the city such as the Queen of the Crescent Islands being not only spotted but disrespected required his personal attention. Luckily he had been only a few streets away and was able to make it before any other citizens tried to threaten her.


"My apologies Queen Rilla of the Crescent Islands. I assure you that this behavior is not sanctioned towards people of such a high standing. To what do I owe your arrival?" Rorik did not bow to her, simply keeping a stance of power and strength whilst eyeing her up and down from under his helmet.

 

[AlannaTrebond]

Rilla planted a single hand on her hip, looking at the new king, measuring him with her eyes as he measured her. He was a new king, just as she was a somewhat new queen. However, she wasn't nearly so naive to think that it would make them able to relate to one another. "King Rorik, I presume." She said, somewhat formally. She walked over to the orc so that she could speak normally, noticing her guards stiffen, but ignoring it. "I've come to discuss some matters that your predecessor left unfinished. I thought that it would be best to discuss it in person."


 
Rune wandered through the streets of Saiketsu, pushing people out of the way. Just because some people couldn't be bothered to look down doesn't mean that she should have to deal with the idiots. "Wacth it, I'm walking here!" She shouted at a human male that backed into her. He spun and glared. Rune glared back, and as soon as she did, he seemed to back off. Rune smiled and patted his arm. "Good man." She told him, then started to walk away. She had a contact to meet up with.

 

[Robertaka123]

"Oh yes, that old buffoon. My rule has been entirely cleaning up his mistakes so far." Rorik let out a sigh and turned on his heel, heading towards the castle that loomed over the city. "Well it would be best to continue this in the castle, away from public ears." He called behind him, walking towards the castle as the people cleared a path.

 

[AlannaTrebond]

Rilla raised an eyebrow. Interesting. It was good to know where he stood on the last king's ideas, to the least. Then again, she wasn't sure she cared about the opinion of a man that felt the need to wear armor everywhere. Was he trying to intimidate his people, impress them, or was he paranoid about being attacked? She handed the reigns of her horse to a guard, then walked with him. So far, she was relatively unimpressed, except for his ability to part a crowd. If his entire rule has been 'cleaning up mistakes', I guess we'll see if he can make proper decisions...

 

[simj26]

Emily

Although the supposed hired sword looked as if she was about to fall asleep leaning on her strange pole-arm, a sharp eye would have discerned that her knuckles grew white where she held the weapon. They had arrived in the Crescent Isles without event, or so that was what the brothers believed. She had not, of course, told either of them about the bodies she left in their wake. Hakim may be skilled in the art of killing himself, having been trained by one of those charlatans that call themselves assassins, but a man who so often looked forwards had no time to turn back to see his other enemies encroaching upon them. That was why she was here. It was in her business to keep the two boys safe until they claimed the throne, and business was woefully booming. It had also taken quite the toll on her. Every alleyway, every eye turned their way, every shadow...they all seemed to hide an assailant within them. While she had no lack of belief in her ability, she was afraid. What if she failed just as she did with Badriyah? The moment played out in her head again, the woman's execution. A thrown knife aimed towards the Orc King, her spear flung into his heart, a blast of wind, or even a simple shout to distract him would have prevented the pain that haunted both boys.


She had failed, and this was the last time she was going to fail. For the orc king himself, he will find himself at the wrong end of her spear, just for ruining her perfect streak. It didn't look good on paper, and it certainly won't look good when she rebuilt her home. A legend that was perfect bore a better story than one who failed, and she was going to kill him for tarnishing her reputation. She realised a long time ago, that this was a childish vendetta she held against the orc. It was of no importance. Spilling blood was her expertise, her forte, and what better way to sell her legend than to claim to be a slayer of kings?


Their acquaintanceship with the trader Mycoid was not a smooth one, at least for her. Her paranoia was already above what most would classify as normal, and this man whose whole character was simply his odd smell did not sit right with her. Whether her distrust in this man was misplaced or not remained to be verified, but as for now, she kept a ready hand on her dagger.


Her reverie was broken when Hakim neared Harud, and whispered something into his ear, before nodding to her. She opened her mouth to argue, that she was supposed to keep both of them in sight, protect both of them. It seemed, however, that she was going to sound like some overbearing parent if she did so. She sighed and nodded, although her expression of worry- a creased brow and a frown that was often absent from her usually grinning, and mocking, features remained. She scratched her neck with the edge of her glaive, and finally made up her mind about it. “Stay safe, Hakim.” was all she managed as he made his way to the stables, leaving her with Harud. “Alright now, boss,” she turned to Harud, clapping her hand on his shoulder, a strong grip for such a lithe figure, her grin returning to her face, “where are we going now, eh?”

 

[Robertaka123]

As they arrived as the castle Rorik lead the way throughout the halls to a more formal meeting room, with refreshments on counters along the walls and a large round table sitting underneath a domed ceiling. Shadows danced around the room as the source of light other than the ornate glass windows was a ball of fire that seemed to hand in the air between the table and the dome. A guard pulled stood in each corner, standing at attention when their King entered. Rorik seated himself, pulling off his helmet and placing it on the table as he awaited Rilla to take a seat.

 

[AlannaTrebond]

Rilla walked into the room with the orc, looking around briefly. It was nice enough, with a style that seemed to scream 'Corona'. She seated herself near the other ruler, then looked over at him. I bet I'm the first representative from another country t come here. "Now, then. What do you know of any of the talks the last king had with other countries?" She asked, wanting to know if she needed to explain the possible alliance that they had been working towards.

 

[MrWeirdbraxto]

Harud



​

Trace amounts of sand still throughout his person. A grain in your teeth here and there, the annoyance of a few under your finger nail at the worst of times, and even the one or two between your toes. The desert still lingered on but faded quicker and quicker, it's half life only a matter of maybe hours even maybe days, but such desert began to linger farther and father away. But, he knew that never could such a desert, that he called home, would be able to escape every living moment of his mind. Harud along with his brother were permitted to take some of their personal items with them in exile, choosing of course to rescue his priceless plethora of scrolls and bound books, not quite so willing to sacrifice such knowledge through his travels. The weight of dozens of scrolls and books in his messenger bag caused his shoulder to become sore and worn out, aching from the long travel. But, all the pain in the world did not matter, these books must be persevered. There was no need to lose out on knowledge for the sake of mourning and frustration. Anger can kill a king, and knowledge can make a better one to replace.


Whilst Harud's gaze was aimed towards the ground, the only thoughts to be had were of home, of the last day, of the last moments before al-Rushad were in ruins. The blood keeling scream of his mothers death, the limp corpse of the oldest brother, crouched upon the ground with an arrow through his heart, the honor of the al-Rushad name surely losing all honor within the hours time. And we, we were just the children of a tainted name that spilled it blood upon a new rulers throne, those troubled children and nothing more.


Harud often pondered, what would become of them if they had not been cast to exile. What would have occurred if they were to pop their heads in that land once more. Often, he thought of what his teachers and philosopher aids must be thinking of them. He was a loyal student, a lifelong learner, and listened to all of their ideas and teaching. In fact, he even had some classes later that evening, obviously that perfect timing for class had shattered. No, there must be no reason for them to think less of the al-Rushad, but that doubt lingered and poisoned his mind.


But what of the common man? The peasant, the merchant, what they must think to have the children of their previous leader of only a short wile, suddenly thrust into exile through the hands of an orc that was not but in command for not even a season. Maybe they would protest? Maybe they would riot! Maybe they would, rise up against and not stand for such an act as the exile of their rulers? No, such optimism was futile, and no such revolution would occur from repressed monarchy such as that.


The travels to the port of Talial's Divine was not one described as pleasant, the merchant smelling of a foul, damp, and dank moss a bit unfamiliar, but quickly becoming a realization of the travels ahead and beyond. Though, time passed as it always has had and will, and soon enough the Crescent Isles were upon them. Upon waiting for a stay in the nights tavern, leaning against the building almost sent Harud into a deep rest, a coma even perhaps. Yes, a coma was what was needed right now, a long and fulfilling rest to eventually wake upon his bedding in Corona.


Harud shook his head back into the reality once more, noticing Hakim taking off without the rest of us. He listened closely as his brother took him by the shoulder and gave him some direction ".."You said the Rusalka would be found in the great lake within this very forest. Might you seek some news of them here?" Harud nodded his head, placing his hand upon Hakim's shoulder as a small farewell for the moment.


As Hakim road off, Emily also placed her strong gripped hand upon his shoulder, asking “Alright now, boss, where are we going now, eh?”. Harud chuckled for a moment before crossing his legs to sit upon the damp earth. "Well, as I've stated before, you don't need the competent attitude. I am more your brother than boss, so you may drop that part if you so kindly." He smirked, reaching into his bags to pull out the text that Hakim was referring to, Whilst On the Shores of Rusalka . Skimming the text, Harud refreshed his memory on the situation. "Though I do not know which direction it is exactly in, we must find a way to reach a great lake, ginormous in size, inside an even greater forest in these lands. Perhaps we should ask a local or two if they know of such a lake. Maybe the inn keeper has heard a thing or two over some drinks?"

 

[Robertaka123]

"I don't know much, only what he actually kept on the books and official. It would appear that he wanted an alliance between our nations despite the obvious.... Cultural barriers." Rorik told her, relaxing in his chair. He may have been a little over confident but to him it took a lot to worry him and things like this were just another days work until he cleaned up what the previous King left unfinished.

 

[AlannaTrebond]

"Cultural barriers may be an understatement." Rilla commented. She smiled slightly. "Your predecessor proposed a marriage of convenience to seal the alliance, one of his sons to a sister of mine." She shrugged slightly. Considering that men can have as many wives or concubines as they like, it wasn't ideal in her mind- especially since her younger sister was involved- and she didn't bother to hide this. "I wouldn't turn down an alliance, however, if you're interested. But if I wasted my time coming here, tell me now."

 

[Killigrew]

Hakim al Rashid

The horse in its cantering gait followed the pull of the reins Hakim held loosely in his grip. As he passed the tavern, a glance through the uncovered window impressed him with the rowdy atmosphere of the place. Men clustered at the round tables, slamming mugs of frothy ale and laughing at some raucous joke.


He felt an intense gaze on him, and paused in his movement. A quick survey found the culprit; the tavern keeper had her eyes rapt upon him. His first reaction was suspicion, but reason pushed it aside. No doubt the servant of a strange fungus merchant would warrant some curious attention. Politely, he inclined his head, and afterwards continued on his way.


The stables leaned towards Hakim as he entered. The wood supports were frayed and splintered, and the stable doors sagged and creaked as he swung past them. A well-groomed black stallion occupied the first stall, and a spotted white mare the second. Hakim peered into the third when a wind breezed at his back, his arm tingling at some passing presence. His head snapped around and he caught a glimpse of flowing white hair as the person ducked into the far stall.


Disquiet, he went into his own, and the grateful horse pawed gladly at the hay-scattered earth, certainly of higher spirits now that it could rest.


"Tut," Hakim clicked his tongue. He tied the beast to the resting pole and took up the back right leg with gentle coaxing.


He sat forward on a stool as he turned the hoof over in his hands, cringing at the sight. A stone was wedged into the horseshoe, and had even bent the metal make out of line. The hoof below was no doubt damaged as well. Hakim could only hope that it was to no long-term extent, because otherwise Mycoid would need a new horse and that was just a headache of bartering and persuasion and intimidation waiting to happen.


He set the hoof down with a long sigh. Tapping his fingers, he moved to stand, reaching into his belt pouch for the scraping tool.


A prickling tickled the back of his neck. Hakim paused. He listened. Footsteps scraped and tapped against the stable floor, colored with whimsy. The stable door opened with a slight creak, and Hakim spun around, expecting an assailant. His mouth was drawn in a thin line, the metal scraping tool turned upside down in a fisted hand like it would a dagger. His other hand reached behind his back to grab securely around the handle of his knife.


After the paranoid reflex, his vision registered, and he recognized that there was only a strange spinning peasant girl coming towards him. The sight had him befuddled enough that he did not step out of the way as she collided with the horse beside him, and getting a face full of coarse tail hair no doubt.


He tucked the scraper back into its pouch. His mouth was pulled into a wry smile. Being alone in the stables had him jumping at shadows like an alley cat.


"No harm done," said Hakim quickly after she apologized. He inadvertently caught an eyefull of her face. She had bright blue eyes that were framed by snow white hair. The sight struck a chord.


Ah. Hakim tensed as a memory bloomed. She bore an uncanny resemblance to that portrait Faide had always been flashing at them. It was a pocket painting of his bride-to-be, that princess of the Crescent Isles.


It was a strange coincidence to meet some scullery maid with the near same face, though perhaps white hair and blue eyes were a Crescent Isle staple. He certainly couldn't say.


Hakim hoped she would leave quickly. He did not want to think of Faidhe.

 

[Vengeance Spirit]

Helga watched as the next woman had entered. She also peaked her interest...She thought to herself Another noble...Noble bloods walk amongst my tavern. But which. She examined both with her eyes, she was intrigued. Her mind was racing with thoughts. She wanted to act now, she went up the stairs and woke up the second bar mistress who usually took the night shift. Helga knocked heavily on the door and said "Kiera. Wake up, I must head into town to pick up more honey...Take over my shift." Kiera was a lot younger than Helga, she was short and awkwardly formed. She walked with a small stagger in her walk but she had a pretty face. Kiera's past was hidden from Helga, but Helga didn't mind. She didn't care about Kiera, she was just another body. Kiera walked down to greet the new travelers, making sure to say hello to each in a friendly way and began to work the bar. Helga went inside her room and shifted back into her scaly self.


She looked at her reflection and thought Time for real beauty. Her diadem was a ring when she was in Helga's form. But now that she changed back, the diadem was itself. She used the diadem to change herself into a woman around the age the noble man was in. She was curvier, well formed and even had a level of grace here. She took out of her closet a tight blue dress with white designs on it that shined alongside the moon. The dress was carefully crafted and well made. It could be clear that it was not a commoner's dress. She took her mirror and thought When I walk out this door...I am no longer Varisitis. Nor Helga. I am Elise. She moved towards the stables to greet Hakim, she wanted to peek his interest.


She said to him in a soothing and seductive voice, speaking slowly and in a low-tone voice "Hello there...Are you new here?" Her eyes were blue, they were warm and hugged him as she spoke. She made sure to stand in a way that her body's figure was fully shown. She then said "I am Elise. Do you mind me asking? Where are you from?" Eying his posture and clothing. She said it in an innocent way, almost as if there was no foul intent behind it. She smiled as she spoke. The smile was strong and well willed. It moved from cheek to cheek perfectly as if someone had carved it with an easel. Her teeth were white like the clouds above. She made sure to show her teeth, another sign of wealth. Commoners couldn't afford dental care, but Elise was no commoner. Elise was a part of Varisitis a long time ago, a part she hadn't used since the beginning of the tavern days.