Deleted
Roleplay posts: 0
Registered: May 19, 2024 16:26:46 GMT -8
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Post by Deleted on Oct 19, 2016 9:27:43 GMT -8
Men hurriedly went out and caught Hansel by his arms. Hurried and rushed Sakandi was flowing over his head as they seemed angry about... something.
They rushed him into Sakand, a flurry of movement as he was handled by one man to the next, put on something, taken somewhere? Yes, through the streets where the smell of water and plants was in the air, where magic seemed to sparkle at the edge of his vision.
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Hansel von Dietzhoff
Dedicated
šÆš š»šššš šÆššššš
Roleplay posts: 400
Age: 17
Physical Description: Quite tall at 6'1, Hansel has a pale complexion coupled with nearly white blonde hair and a set of heterochromatic eyes. His boyish features are well defined but covered in many small scars. The young man's frame is best described as sinewy with significant muscle placed upon a relatively thin body. Across his body one would find many cosmetics scars, brands and a few tattoos be it of scripture or strange tribal symbolism. However most noticeable are the two large wings on either shoulder blade, and the cross on his chest and back crossing his breast from stomach to neck.
Clothes and Equipment: Typically Hans will wear a bodyglove of buunvar leather, over which is blessed chainmail and plate. His preferred weapon is a moderately sized Executioner's sword of Hagbane silver with the end rounded and sharpened to at least pierce flesh. However for sidearms he carries a powerful longbow and an ensemble of Holy falchion and dagger.
The lad also will usually possess a mount; either a blessed horse, pegasus or hyppogryph. The beast will always carry heavy barding and bears a lance and kite shield for its rider.
Registered: Aug 30, 2016 13:29:47 GMT -8
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Post by Hansel von Dietzhoff on Oct 19, 2016 14:40:04 GMT -8
He was barely conscious, wondering what would happen to him. Would he be a slave? What had they meant by "the most wonderful prison." Or at least that is what he tried to think. He coughed out a little more sand and dust, before singing a small piece of an old hymn. "Liber scriptus proferetur, in quo totum continetur. Unde mundus judicetur." They would not know the meaning, but if they knew the tongue they would get the picture; he thought he was to die now.
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Grandma
Widely Known
Imperial Vizier of Isra
Roleplay posts: 1,017
Age: 90
Physical Description: ---------------------------------------------------------
An elderly and frail looking woman with white wispy hair. However, despite being old, her back is not bent by age nor are her eyes clouded by it.
Clothes and Equipment: ---------------------------------------------------------
She wears a deep purple robe that has sleeves that extend far beyond her hands. Her hands are covered with fine gloves of black silk and she wears one ring on each, one having a purple stone set in it and the other a piece of onyx. Carrying an ornate cane of orellium, Grandma can use it to increase her magical channeling as well as assist in deflecting others spells with it. The cane itself is black and covered in numerous ornate, but tiny runes. The cap on the cane is a purplish colored gem. On her wrist is a silver bracelet with a ruby in it that Grandma uses for telepathic communication with others in its network.
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Registered: Sept 12, 2015 8:27:42 GMT -8
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Post by Grandma on Oct 19, 2016 16:05:30 GMT -8
The people in the Bay of Sakand would notice a black cloud of something on the horizon, rolling toward them across the desert dunes. Almost like a sandstorm, but far too dark. This strange cloud would stop, still about five miles away from the Bay of Sakand, but growing slightly over time, although at this distance it would be near impossible to notice that fact.
In the meantime, Grandma had already approached The Bay of Sakand, moving towards the entrance to the city itself. Unlike normal, her hood was down and she was exuding an aura of authority, she clearly wanted to be noticed. Approaching the entrance to Sakand, she went to the nearest guard, preferably a captain if one was available.
āI have an urgent message I wish for you to take to the Lady of Sakand.ā
Grandma spoke clearly and loudly enough those nearby could hear her, she fixed the guard with a steely gaze.
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Deleted
Roleplay posts: 0
Registered: May 19, 2024 16:26:46 GMT -8
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Post by Deleted on Oct 19, 2016 16:37:18 GMT -8
[Exit Hansel to the Temple of Serenity]
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Deleted
Roleplay posts: 0
Registered: May 19, 2024 16:26:46 GMT -8
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Post by Deleted on Oct 19, 2016 16:39:42 GMT -8
The guard looked puzzled at Grandma and the gathering dark clouds. It was a bad omen for these superstitious people who glanced toward their tower of magic.
A captain was indeed brought forward, and the green turbaned man with serious eyes and a formal countenance looked over the gold white woman.
"What is the message?" The man asked.
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Grandma
Widely Known
Imperial Vizier of Isra
Roleplay posts: 1,017
Age: 90
Physical Description: ---------------------------------------------------------
An elderly and frail looking woman with white wispy hair. However, despite being old, her back is not bent by age nor are her eyes clouded by it.
Clothes and Equipment: ---------------------------------------------------------
She wears a deep purple robe that has sleeves that extend far beyond her hands. Her hands are covered with fine gloves of black silk and she wears one ring on each, one having a purple stone set in it and the other a piece of onyx. Carrying an ornate cane of orellium, Grandma can use it to increase her magical channeling as well as assist in deflecting others spells with it. The cane itself is black and covered in numerous ornate, but tiny runes. The cap on the cane is a purplish colored gem. On her wrist is a silver bracelet with a ruby in it that Grandma uses for telepathic communication with others in its network.
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Registered: Sept 12, 2015 8:27:42 GMT -8
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Post by Grandma on Oct 19, 2016 19:09:06 GMT -8
Pulling a small scroll from within her robes, Grandma hands it to the man. The scroll is sealed with the seal of Isra, which if he doesnāt recognize, the Lady of Sakand most likely would.
āPlease take this to the Lady of Sakand, it will explain things to her. It is most imperative for the safety of Sakand that you bring this to her immediately.ā
If the guard does take the letter to the Lady of Sakand and she reads it, she will find the following enclosed.
Most fair and wise Lady of Sakand,
As you may have heard, Isra has just declared war upon Goraia. I have come to Sakand as an emissary for the High Lady of Isra, Naoki. My reason for coming is simple, to prevent any unneeded bloodshed or misunderstandings that may occur due to this declaration. Although war has already been declared, Sakand is in a bit of a different position than the rest of Goraia. For this reason, I ask that you come down and speak with me for the good of Sakand.
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Deleted
Roleplay posts: 0
Registered: May 19, 2024 16:26:46 GMT -8
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Post by Deleted on Nov 18, 2016 11:10:50 GMT -8
Grandma was made to wait, not unnecessarily wrong, but it still took time for the messages to be delivered, to be read, to be taken in, to have Fairuz prepared herself.
And then the doors opened, and the young woman herself came out. She was elegantly clothed in the way of Sakand, as much skin as silk showing, gold glittering occasionally upon her body, but she was not dripping with it. Merely, it was meant to accent her station, not overwhelm.
Her jade eyes lined with kohl, however, were snapping with fire. She was very angry -- angry at Goraia for abandoning them, for taking the jewel of the Talak and leaving their country defenseless, angry that a foreign giant could come in and make demands... and worse, that she would, inevitably, have to bow.
"Say what you would say," Fairuz said to Grandma, her Sakandi accent just a little more obvious in her voice as it was obvious that she was in a certain... mood. As no doubt Grandma may have heard, however, Fairuz was intelligent. Passionate she may be, but she was not stupid. Nor was she rude.
Everyone had Fairuz' respect to begin with. They only lost it after she had met and spoken with them.
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Grandma
Widely Known
Imperial Vizier of Isra
Roleplay posts: 1,017
Age: 90
Physical Description: ---------------------------------------------------------
An elderly and frail looking woman with white wispy hair. However, despite being old, her back is not bent by age nor are her eyes clouded by it.
Clothes and Equipment: ---------------------------------------------------------
She wears a deep purple robe that has sleeves that extend far beyond her hands. Her hands are covered with fine gloves of black silk and she wears one ring on each, one having a purple stone set in it and the other a piece of onyx. Carrying an ornate cane of orellium, Grandma can use it to increase her magical channeling as well as assist in deflecting others spells with it. The cane itself is black and covered in numerous ornate, but tiny runes. The cap on the cane is a purplish colored gem. On her wrist is a silver bracelet with a ruby in it that Grandma uses for telepathic communication with others in its network.
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Registered: Sept 12, 2015 8:27:42 GMT -8
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Post by Grandma on Nov 20, 2016 16:48:13 GMT -8
Compared to Fairuzā clothes, Grandmaās robes of deep purple with a bit of gold gilding were positively plain. Going by the outfit she wore and what she had heard of Fairuz, she no doubt would have preferred negotiating with a male diplomat. Grandma considered if Fairuz was annoyed at the fact she was negotiating with someone for all appearances was an old crone, leaving all that lust she could have leveraged useless. Grandma had to suppress a bit of a chuckle at the thought. Although there were no physical signs of what she was doing, Grandma would cast a spell that prevented scrying or eavesdropping from any significant distance. Unless anyone around was skilled in magic, the spell would most likely go unnoticed.
It was quite easy to tell from her eyes and the manner in which she spoke that Fairuz was less than happy to see Grandma here. Grandma couldnāt really blame her, most rulers in this situation would probably have that reaction. In fact, sheād be more worried if they didnāt, as that showed a complete lack of backbone. Other than the faintest of smiles as Fairuz approached, Grandmaās expression was rather hard to read. Offering a nod of respect towards Fairuz, Grandma then spoke.
āI am here to extend to Sakand an olive branch. Although Isra has declared war on Goraia, Sakand need not be impacted negatively by this. No, in fact, I feel Sakand will be able to benefit from the offer Isra wishes to make. Isra desires for Sakand to capitulate, and become part of it- one of the city states being given rights equal to the other states within us like the Winterlands. We are also not interested in finding a new ruler for Sakand, if it is not necessary. From our perspective, Sakand has thrived relative to the burden Goraia has placed upon it. You are popular among your people and from all the reports we have gathered, you are a very capable leader, we have no wish to interfere in that area if you are cooperative.ā
āOur navy will be arriving in Goraia very soon, our armies soon following. Iām sure you have some intel as to the strength of Israās army compared to Goraiaās, which if you do, then you already know what the result of this war will be. In a very short time, Goraia will be no more. Therefore, I ask that you abandon the burning ship that is Goraia and save Sakand by accepting this generous offer.ā
As usual in these proceedings, Grandma was to the point from the get-go. She found it threw off most politicians and rulers who were used to bandying words and dancing around the actual topic for hours upon hours. Some due to their station and for reasons of politeness were forced to follow certain rules of conduct. Grandma, however, wasnāt shackled by such obligations.
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Deleted
Roleplay posts: 0
Registered: May 19, 2024 16:26:46 GMT -8
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Post by Deleted on Nov 22, 2016 15:02:02 GMT -8
Grandma was very correct on one assumption -- Fairuz wasn't going to be seducing her, at least not out here beneath a blazing hot sun while a storm gathered literally in the distance and metaphorically around Sakand. That said -- given a little time, Grandma was not safe as a target for Fairuz' amorous' dealings. It was simply occasion and situation.
Fairuz had more weapons in her arsenal than beauty and sex, after all.
A wind picked up and rolled over the desert, making Fairuz' clothes dance around her legs, her dark hair twirling against her back and in the air, but those sharp, sharp green eyes remained focused on Grandma's face and even seemed to turn... reptilian.
Behind her lush, red closed lips, Fairuz ran her tongue over her teeth and then looked away from Grandma, looking over the sparkling Bay, turning so far that she could see the city... and then back to look at the storm before her kohl-lined eyes settled on Grandma.
She wasn't flattered that the Isranians found her to be a capable leader, nor was she flattered to be offered a piece of their pie. It felt as if they thought Sakand was the fatted calf that could do nothing more than eat from the palms of others.
And dammit, that IS what it had become, and what Fairuz had been working toward ending. But Sakand had no military outside the city guard... and they had basically none of their awe-some magical power ever since Goraia had taken the crystal from the Talak.
They were a sitting duck, and Goraia knew it. Fairuz knew it. And worse, Isra knew it.
"Sakand has a rich and ancient history," Fairuz spoke, finally turned her gaze back onto Grandma. "It was almost wiped out by a nation that claimed benevolence. Yet... I have read the Isranian Accords that were just signed and agreed upon, and so... I will agree that Sakand will not aide Goraia, if it is agreed that Sakand will become its own sovereign nation -- with the current trade policies and treaties intact between Isra and Sakand."
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Grandma
Widely Known
Imperial Vizier of Isra
Roleplay posts: 1,017
Age: 90
Physical Description: ---------------------------------------------------------
An elderly and frail looking woman with white wispy hair. However, despite being old, her back is not bent by age nor are her eyes clouded by it.
Clothes and Equipment: ---------------------------------------------------------
She wears a deep purple robe that has sleeves that extend far beyond her hands. Her hands are covered with fine gloves of black silk and she wears one ring on each, one having a purple stone set in it and the other a piece of onyx. Carrying an ornate cane of orellium, Grandma can use it to increase her magical channeling as well as assist in deflecting others spells with it. The cane itself is black and covered in numerous ornate, but tiny runes. The cap on the cane is a purplish colored gem. On her wrist is a silver bracelet with a ruby in it that Grandma uses for telepathic communication with others in its network.
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Registered: Sept 12, 2015 8:27:42 GMT -8
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Post by Grandma on Nov 22, 2016 22:02:28 GMT -8
So Fairuz wanted Sovereignty it seemed. Although Grandma wouldnāt have particularly cared herself, Naoki had made it clear that she would accept no less than complete capitulation, and Grandma intended to give her just that. Fairuz had nothing to bargain with and the governor knew it. Therefore, Grandma intended to be perfectly clear on her stance regarding this matter.
āIām sure it does have a rich history and that is why we must ensure nothing unfortunate happens to Sakand. Iām almost surprised Goraia has done so little damage to your country, although I hear that Jill is a bit fond of Sakand, so that probably explains it.ā
Steepling her bony, aged fingers together, Grandma observes Fairuz for a moment in silence before continuing, her expression still revealing little of what her emotions on this discussion was.
āSakand will not aid Goraia because it is incapable of doing so in any meaningful capacity. Now, as the leader of Sakand, Iām sure you wish it and the people of it to continue to prosper. That is exactly why you will now sign this treaty that I have brought with me here, making Sakand a state of Isra. The trade policies and treaties will remain intact in addition to the parts added from being a state of Isra. Sakand being a āsovereignā nation is out of the realm of feasibility - your city cannot afford it, and the request is clearly driven by your pride as a leader. I will not condemn your pride in Sakand, but neither will I allow it to interfere in my reason for being here.ā
As Grandma finished speaking, she met Fairuzās reptilian eyes with a calm, unwavering gaze as she waited for the woman's response.
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Deleted
Roleplay posts: 0
Registered: May 19, 2024 16:26:46 GMT -8
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Post by Deleted on Nov 23, 2016 11:05:43 GMT -8
She wanted to bristle, she felt like a cobra that had had its nest threatened, hood flaring. But that's not how Fairuz appeared, other than a flare of her eyes. She remained calm. A temper only granted short-term gain. The woman knew better. The woman believe in appearances. Appearances could be great armor, as well as a great weapon.
So, instead, she took a breath, and made sure that her shoulders remained poised where they wanted to stiffen, made sure that her hands, folded in front of her, remained relaxed when they wanted to fist. She was collected. She was the Lady of Sakand.
In truth, Fairuz knew that her request would be denied, but if nothing was ventured, nothing was gained. She wasn't entirely appreciative of being told that her request was made due to pride as a leader, rather than pride as being Sakandi, but that was a slight that only Fairuz would ever know, that only Fairuz would ever remember.
Sakand was weak. Fairuz had been smart enough to realize that Goraia could be a tool to gain strength in the city -- after all, it had been so easily crippled when the orb had been taken from the tower. Clearly, there was a huge and gaping flaw in that lay of the city and its surrounding lands that needed to be accounted for. She had been hoping that given her previous relationship with Isra's Chancellor that Isra might grant Sakand more, but Fairuz was realistic. This wasn't Ryden she was talking to (although even Ryden was not a man to simply roll over, as Fairuz had discovered), but another beast. Fairuz could use Isra as she had used Goraia. They could revisit Sakand's sovereignty at a later date.
Yet, the pill was hard to swallow.
"I will sign the document, but I will not do it here. I invite you into Sakand, to take refreshment, as well as to discuss with me the changes I should expect," Fairuz said to Grandma, gesturing to the gates behind her. She did not want to discuss any further details in this place.
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Grandma
Widely Known
Imperial Vizier of Isra
Roleplay posts: 1,017
Age: 90
Physical Description: ---------------------------------------------------------
An elderly and frail looking woman with white wispy hair. However, despite being old, her back is not bent by age nor are her eyes clouded by it.
Clothes and Equipment: ---------------------------------------------------------
She wears a deep purple robe that has sleeves that extend far beyond her hands. Her hands are covered with fine gloves of black silk and she wears one ring on each, one having a purple stone set in it and the other a piece of onyx. Carrying an ornate cane of orellium, Grandma can use it to increase her magical channeling as well as assist in deflecting others spells with it. The cane itself is black and covered in numerous ornate, but tiny runes. The cap on the cane is a purplish colored gem. On her wrist is a silver bracelet with a ruby in it that Grandma uses for telepathic communication with others in its network.
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Registered: Sept 12, 2015 8:27:42 GMT -8
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Post by Grandma on Nov 23, 2016 14:03:45 GMT -8
Grandma was impressed by Fairuzā ample self-control, even Naoki would have trouble controlling her feelings in such a situation. Although Naoki didnāt really have to worry about finding herself in these situations, to begin withā¦ Still, Grandma appreciated the mask of calmness Fairuz showed her, even if it wasnāt genuine. A less tactful leader would have possibly lost control and yelled at Grandma, only to then be forced to accept her demands when their senses returned to them.
The smallest of smiles would begin appearing on Grandmaās lips as Fairuz agreed to sign the document.
āIām glad youāve chosen the correct decision, Lady Fairuz. Rest assured, the expediency of your agreement to sign will be remembered by me. I do appreciate leaders who can quickly assess the situation and choose the right decisionā¦ā
It seemed Fairuz wanted Grandma to enter her domain. Although normally this would be a bit hazardous as it could technically be a trap of some kind, Grandma wasnāt particularly worried about entering without any guards. She didnāt think Fairuz would be foolish enough to try anything on her, but if she didā¦ Well, Grandma wouldnāt say no to a bit of fun.
āVery well, we can continue this discussion wherever you feel more comfortable doing so at. Outside the city gates isnāt exactly the most picturesque place to sign such a document.ā
Grandma would follow Fairuz to whatever location she wished to continue the discussion.
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Deleted
Roleplay posts: 0
Registered: May 19, 2024 16:26:46 GMT -8
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Post by Deleted on Dec 8, 2016 9:11:31 GMT -8
[ Exit to the Governor's Palace in Sakand ]
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The Keata Tribe
Established
Roleplay posts: 49
Registered: Aug 21, 2016 22:40:45 GMT -8
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Post by The Keata Tribe on Mar 3, 2017 22:07:16 GMT -8
Off in the distance, a small group of about twenty or so tribals, mostly female, showed up on the horizon. Each had cat ears and a tail, dressed in light nomadic garb, and held spears. They walked along the beach, approaching nearer and nearer to the city of Sakand...
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Deleted
Roleplay posts: 0
Registered: May 19, 2024 16:26:46 GMT -8
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Post by Deleted on Mar 5, 2017 10:44:36 GMT -8
They were spotted from their distance, their presence accounted for by the men along the walls. The approaching tribe would find these walls very high and surrounding the city, but for the actual water themselves. They would need to travel toward the gate if they intended to get in.
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The Keata Tribe
Established
Roleplay posts: 49
Registered: Aug 21, 2016 22:40:45 GMT -8
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Post by The Keata Tribe on Apr 9, 2017 7:47:32 GMT -8
While rare, it was likely that traders or travelers made their way into the surrounding wilderness occasionally for various reasons. Some of them, within the past days, would surely return to the city with reports of belongings missing, or even vicious attacks by cat-like people, who'd steal things and then disperse.
Approximately a month after their first sighting outside of Sakand, they would be seen again in the distance. As though studying the city from a visible but safe distance, they'd leave after a short while, if nothing happens.
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Chosen of the Wavewarden
Established
Roleplay posts: 10
Age: 29
Physical Description: The Chosen of the Wavewarden is seldom seen in public without his full armor on, but he is about 6'1" and 200lbs. His hair is similar in color to the Daimyo's and his eyes are a brilliant green in color.
Clothes and Equipment: He bears full steel armor, shoulders emblazoned with the symbol of House Zuikaku. His katana is maintained to a perfect sheen, the handle wrapped in swamp crocodile skin so that his grip is strong.
Blessed by the Guardian of the Sea herself, he bore no personal banner save for the Rune of the Wavewarden, which pulsated dimly on his chest. Such magic, for magic it was, was allowed as it had been bestowed on him by a Kami, and they were not bound by the laws of mortal man.
Registered: May 7, 2017 13:12:38 GMT -8
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Post by Chosen of the Wavewarden on May 29, 2017 17:00:35 GMT -8
The Neva-Svir-Suna named for the Wavewarden herself, and given to the Chosen by the Daimyo himself, made its way into the Bay of Sakand. The ship was, by all appearances, being handled expertly, Chosen giving the crew few instructions from his place behind the wheel, every veteran on board knowing their duty better than they knew their own wives. It did not glide over the water like the Sakandi ships, but it showed a mastery of the sea, hard-earned by the sweat and blood of the men on board, all of whom had served the Chosen on his last vessel. The Quying colors flew proudly from the mast, as did those of the Daimyo, for the Chosen was here to represent the Ruler of Quying, and thus his own crest was displayed on a smaller flag beneath the Daimyo's.
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Deleted
Roleplay posts: 0
Registered: May 19, 2024 16:26:47 GMT -8
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Post by Deleted on May 30, 2017 20:19:10 GMT -8
The Chosen's ship drifted past Maharet's own. The sakandi ship was beautiful, threaded with gold over the pale wood, designed in traditional Sakandi style with verdant green sails. Maharet was sitting on the deck, a desk that was low the ground so she was seated on pillows.
Her thick, dark hair was twisted up into a bun at the top of her hair so it was held away from her face, a pretty face that was turned toward the scrolls and the maps that she was reading. The ship was on its way toward the islands that were near Sakand, and the journey was supposed to be short and uneventful.
Maharet was going to assuage her curiosity. "Milady," came a soft voice, and a hand-maiden had approached, laying down a tray with fresh fruits and a Sakandi decanter of wine. Maharet thanked her with a small "Mm" and then reached to pour herself some wine, taking it up in a hand with thin golden rings on a few of her fingers, and she drank. Her other hand picked up a marker's tool to see how far the journey would be...
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Deleted
Roleplay posts: 0
Registered: May 19, 2024 16:26:47 GMT -8
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Post by Deleted on May 31, 2017 7:42:40 GMT -8
Along with the Quy-styled ship was the Sakandi vessel as well, bearing the crew and what few delegates were left to return to Sakand. There was news aboard, of course, messages from the Emissary, from the Lady Asherah, and from other subtle agents within the Sakandi host that had been left in Quying. They led Chosen of the Wavewarden's ship, but only by a little, in no-contest to out-speed the Quy ship. From this distance, the first lighthouse could be seen, sparking bright every so often as its beacon turned, but in the even farther distance were the stretching arms and domes and spires and tops of the once-mythical city, lights dancing around its rooftops while verdant green wrapped around it like an emerald shawl over a lady's shoulders. The City of Sakand waited, and seemed to do so with bated breath for the Quy presence.
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