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Post by The Divine Empire of Vessia on Jan 28, 2020 21:34:50 GMT -8
This is a fairly long stretch of coast, artificially elongated with all of its many natural ports and harbours. It crosses many different territories from that owned by full Electors, to that of Free-Knights or pretty Princes. It is one of the warmest parts of the Imperial Coastline, hosting dozens of ethnicities all vying for supremacy over the idyllic land. While Imperial garrisons are aplenty given the value of warm water ports, the real force of the waters are the Uskoks. Some owe allegiance only to the Emperor, some only to a local Lord. But these state sanctioned pirates have been a menace to vessels world wide. Far better equipped and trained than petty pirates the price they charge for safe passage is quite atrocious, and yet it is often worth it to not lose everything in a single boarding action. While in the summers this can be avoided by simply going through Northern Sea routes, storms or winter freezing the waters don't always make this so easy.
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Karolai Ferenc
Established
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: Youth
Physical Description: Karl has a long, thick mane of arguably effeminate sand-blond hair. His eyes are a cold steel shade, while his skin a soft beige-pink. The man has soft cheeks and nose, but a pronounced chin and shapely ears. He is of toned but not exceptionally muscular build, on a frame that is likewise tall but not exceptionally so.
Clothes and Equipment: Generally will wear fine but not particularly ornate clothing, trying for the biggest synthesis of comfort and style that he can get. Will at his hip have a messer and/or hand crossbow for self defence.
Registered: Aug 22, 2019 15:48:22 GMT -8
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Post by Karolai Ferenc on Jan 28, 2020 22:59:34 GMT -8
They’d survived the ill fated feast, somehow. Hosts seeming initially so kind turning out to be bloodsuckers was… well, Karolai had not even considered such a possibility. To him it showed how daft his father was to send him off as such, almost a lamb to the slaughter. But yet… the old bastard was also by this event proven right. The world was a vile place, and in this experience Karl could only see pure justification for the Empire’s oppression of its many people. If outside of Vessian borders vampires roamed like this, then maybe the Witch Hunters weren’t so bad. It was better to go to sleep fearing a metaphorical monster than a real one. Really, it had made the impulse to set the Empire as the destination for the duo not wholly unfounded. They needed to get somewhere they wouldn’t be chased to by the vampires, and where better than a place most vampires were cut down centuries ago, while the methods to continue doing so were known all across? Of course they were lucky to get to the ship. Karl and Vera only really got on with the stolen horse by virtue of the solid gold bar handed to the fellow and yet even then no berths were available to them. Still, it was just past dawn and already in the far distance Karl could see the beginning of the Imperial coastline: home. The daze of what had transpired only now really wore off of him. “Bloody hell.” the lad managed. He yawned, and turned to Vera. “You alright?” he asked quite simply. He knew he sure as hell wasn’t.
“Fifteen men on the dead man's chest— ...Yo-ho-ho, and a bottle of rum! Drink and the devil had done for the rest— ...Yo-ho-ho, and a bottle of rum! But one man of her crew alive, What put to sea with seventy-five.”
“No, no, that’s the verse!” “Oh come on Captain, it’s the best part, it’s better off as chorus!” “That’s not the point you little worm, it’s traditional.” “Caaaaaptaaaaaaain!” “Aye?” “Ship, a ship!” “What colours is it flying?” “She’s a trader Cap’n.” “I see. Take a look, see if you can find her name.” “Err… I don’t see—wait! It’s called the Pride of Queen Marice.” “Hmmm.” The Captain said, scratching his bushy facial hair as he consulted a rather long list. “Queen Marice, Queen Marice, Queen Marice…. ah yes, here she be. Looks like she hasn’t paid up; we’re getting ourselves some booty today lads!” he called out, cackling as he drew his sword. “Quarter turn and full speed ahead!”
“Oh shit.” the Captain of the Queen Marice said, a bead of sweat rolling down his forehead. Yes, of course the one day that he didn't pay his dues to the bloody pirates was the day they decided to mosey down this route. "Everyone! Drop what you're doing." the man called out, his face making it quite clear he had enough of "this shit". "There's pirates on the horizon, Uskoks to be exact. Draw what weapons you got, what of you that have none can go over to the Quartermaster and ask for what he's got but it'll probably be not more than cutlery and planks." Taking off his hat, the Captain wiped his brow before looking across the water, sighing as he heard their singing. "We'll see how many of them there is. We're not escaping, but if they don't have a lot then we stand our ground. If they do... well, we're going with them. Not the nicest captors, yet far better than dying. Any questions? No? Good." he finished, before anyone could actually raise their concerns.
Karolai was incensed. Out of the frying pan and into the fryer was not what he had in mind, and his face reddened petulantly: this wasn't fair! For all his attempts worldliness, Karolai was still spoiled enough to have the beginnings of a tantrum to be coming on. "I'm a son of the Egyszer King!" he whined, looking between the Captain and the pirate vessel in the distance. "These men ultimately serve the Empire, they'll stand down if I tell them."
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Hilda Vera de Rondón
Established
Named after the fallen city, Zephyra Silverfire lives disguised as Hilda Vera de Rondón.
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: 18
Physical Description: She is a tall, lithe red-head girl with sun-kissed freckled skin and brown eyes that shine gold in the sunlight, often seen sparkling with a knowing, and mischief around loved ones. A soft sought-after beauty. Still considered a 'Plain Jane' to those outside her inner circle. She has a strong physique.
Clothes and Equipment: When out and about, Lady Hilda can be seen dressed in simple, yet fine gowns that most can tell her noble standing in spite of the neutral tones. In private time, the lady prefers to wear tunic and trousers with riding boots.
Lady Hilda has a sword, as well as a set of armor she had commissioned by a female blacksmith, who curates armors for women. Women who prefer to carry a sword more than anything, and go to war alongside the men, when called for or not.
Registered: Aug 19, 2019 12:36:06 GMT -8
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Post by Hilda Vera de Rondón on Jan 30, 2020 20:37:20 GMT -8
Hilda had long since dispelled of the contents of her stomach, and her hands wouldn't stop shaking. She could not eat. She could not sleep. Neither had her heart managed to find a way to slow; it beat quickly in her chest as though they were still in the midst of danger. Thus, Hilda walked. Back and forth, she anxiously paced over the planks of the ship, unable to sit still. Memories and conversations of the previous night echoed in her mind like a horrifying nightmare, and she wished she could dismiss it as such, but it had happened. It was real, and she shuddered at the thought. She was glad, at the very least, to have escaped the filthy tattered dress which she had worn to the Masquerade and into a vested chemisette, trousers, and boots, all provided by the Captain of the crew.
Karola came to ask if she was alright, and Hilda merely gave him a numb nod, then watched him go. If it weren't for him, she would be dead, she realized. Amid the chaos, Hilda lost track of her charge. The last she had seen of Lord Vera, he had brandished his silver rapier, much like a true musketeer, against the enemy. Vampires. She shuddered as the claws of the thrall reached for her only to be cut off by an anonymous Karola. What a small world it was for him to have been there, as well. Now she quite literally owed him for saving her life, although it had been her idea to flee by sea. Hopefully, Lord Vera had the same idea... if he was still alive. But she couldn't think of that now.
There were pirates on the horizon.
"No," she whispered in disbelief. The crew ran around gathering weapons and preparing to make a stand. Someone handed her a saber, and she stared dumbly at it. "This can't be happening," she moaned. Karolai had the bright idea of claiming something about being royalty, and Hilda's eyes widened at the revelation. She was at his side in an instant. "You cannot reveal who you are to them," she said. "They will only hold you for ransom. The only thing it will serve is them, not you. Perhaps it is best if we play along with their game, as the Captain suggested."
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Karolai Ferenc
Established
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: Youth
Physical Description: Karl has a long, thick mane of arguably effeminate sand-blond hair. His eyes are a cold steel shade, while his skin a soft beige-pink. The man has soft cheeks and nose, but a pronounced chin and shapely ears. He is of toned but not exceptionally muscular build, on a frame that is likewise tall but not exceptionally so.
Clothes and Equipment: Generally will wear fine but not particularly ornate clothing, trying for the biggest synthesis of comfort and style that he can get. Will at his hip have a messer and/or hand crossbow for self defence.
Registered: Aug 22, 2019 15:48:22 GMT -8
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Post by Karolai Ferenc on Jan 31, 2020 14:04:58 GMT -8
Really the coincidental nature of the recent events only added to the furor of the young Egyszer. It was all... well, so surreal. This wasn't really helped by the fact Karolai had no sleep, every moment he was upright being a fight for consciousness into which much effort had to be placed. His eyelids felt as though they had whole counterweights tied to them and he was clearly overcompensating in an effort to look fresh faced and alert. As his rage coalesced he was perhaps lucky that at least the redness entering his skin masked the redness of his eyes given there was no longer a start contrast between them.
Heads turned at his indignant outburst, though Hilda quickly spoke reason. It became very apparent to the lad he was being a childish fool, and that indeed this likely meant he would just be used as a toy to extort his father for much money. If that really happened then he knew the old man would have rage unseen upon his return and it would be years before he would be allowed to leave the castle properly again. The red in his face softened to a pink of embarrassment and shame instead of anger, and he walked a bit aside to get out of view of most people aboard it in hopes they would turn their attentions elsewhere. Truth was, now he had likely made a threat for himself not only of the pirates, but of the crew too. Many present could easily babble about what he said in hopes they'd be free, or if they later crossed paths then recognizing Karolai they could once more take advantage of their knowledge. Truth was he now only had one person he could vaguely trust, that being Hilda given the bit of selfless advice she gave him.
Karolai drew his one messer, giving it an experimental twist here and there to get re-accustomed to its weight and balance. "Well, then." he said. "We pretend to be normal passengers, I suppose? I reckon you too would fetch a pretty penny."
The ship of the Uskoks had closed in enough that the whites of their eyes could be seen, the boat being lightning fast. "Ahoy!" it's captain called out in a heavily accented common. "I suggest you slow down me boys, lest I be forced to give you a volley. It says here on my chit that you haven't paid your dues, would you be so kind as to explain why that is? I believe we may have to unfortunately take this vessel in entirety as compensation for the safety we provide in patrolling these waters, I do hope no nastiness will come of this!" The Uskok ship was only slightly longer than the Queen Marice, but it was taller to accommodate a whole extra deck and hence a whole extra line of ballistae. At the same time, it seemed to have rather sparse crew. This gave hope to the sailors of the Queen Marice, though the Captain wasn't so eager to start fighting. He didn't respond for now, only steering and gauging the will to fight of his vessel's passengers.
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Hilda Vera de Rondón
Established
Named after the fallen city, Zephyra Silverfire lives disguised as Hilda Vera de Rondón.
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: 18
Physical Description: She is a tall, lithe red-head girl with sun-kissed freckled skin and brown eyes that shine gold in the sunlight, often seen sparkling with a knowing, and mischief around loved ones. A soft sought-after beauty. Still considered a 'Plain Jane' to those outside her inner circle. She has a strong physique.
Clothes and Equipment: When out and about, Lady Hilda can be seen dressed in simple, yet fine gowns that most can tell her noble standing in spite of the neutral tones. In private time, the lady prefers to wear tunic and trousers with riding boots.
Lady Hilda has a sword, as well as a set of armor she had commissioned by a female blacksmith, who curates armors for women. Women who prefer to carry a sword more than anything, and go to war alongside the men, when called for or not.
Registered: Aug 19, 2019 12:36:06 GMT -8
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Post by Hilda Vera de Rondón on Jan 31, 2020 20:57:26 GMT -8
Hilda's heart sank upon seeing the young prince's wrath slowly transform into humiliation and embarrassment and turned to see the faces of the crew contemplate him, as well, suddenly wishing she could prevent it from occurring just as it did. Hilda needed him to remain steady with his anger if they were to have a chance at winning in this fight.
In her mind, she acknowledged that as a lady of Rondon, she could also be ransomed back to her noble charge. However, with their whereabouts unknown, she could scarcely consider herself one at the moment. Moreover, Hilda could hardly admit to her noble lineage as heedlessly as he had, even whilst irritably deprived of food and sleep.
The air was tense with a foreboding over the likelihood of a deadlock between themselves and the pirate crew, and the Captain was dormant, proving himself to be a rather ineffective leader. Hilda clasped the hilt of her saber with a newfound intensity as her chest puffed with purpose. It was her turn to become fervid with righteous fury. The youth climbed up on the ledge of the ship and began to climb the rope. Then, she held the saber out and looked the pirate Captain in the eye, even as her heart skipped a beat. What the hell was she getting herself into?!
"Ahoy! Avast ye!" The pirates had yet to give them no quarter, as there was no red flag being flown with their blackjack on their massive Man-O-War, which meant they were still quite willing to show them mercy. "The scuttlebutt of these seas speaks well of the Uskok. 'Tis an honor, and a pleasure to stand before ye seadogs of renown, an' pardon me for taking a wee moment in admiring ye mighty vessel! We humble sailors of the "Queen Marice" be on an Imperial mission of import and must make timely haste. As ye be well aware, to seize a vessel carrying precious imperial cargo is a crime against the empire itself!"
Hilda paused, allowing the fact to sink in, before continuing. "Yet, for any ship found to have aided an imperial envoy should be nobly rewarded with more than a mere 'pieces o' eight'! Blow the man down if ye must, but know that it might fancy ye to avoid feeding the fish, today. For those that wish to take a risk a dance on the hempen jig, batten down yer hatches. The men and women of this here crew are prepared to defend her to their very last breath!" Hilda roared with her last breath, causing the crew to react by shouting their support in return. Being surrounded by Rondi sailors back home helped tremendously with her accent.
She merely hoped the pirates wouldn't call her bluff.
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Karolai Ferenc
Established
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: Youth
Physical Description: Karl has a long, thick mane of arguably effeminate sand-blond hair. His eyes are a cold steel shade, while his skin a soft beige-pink. The man has soft cheeks and nose, but a pronounced chin and shapely ears. He is of toned but not exceptionally muscular build, on a frame that is likewise tall but not exceptionally so.
Clothes and Equipment: Generally will wear fine but not particularly ornate clothing, trying for the biggest synthesis of comfort and style that he can get. Will at his hip have a messer and/or hand crossbow for self defence.
Registered: Aug 22, 2019 15:48:22 GMT -8
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Post by Karolai Ferenc on Feb 1, 2020 18:30:34 GMT -8
Karolai learned from his father of leadership, and even though he had not much experience actually leading he still had to concur with Hilda's summation of the Captain. It seemed he wasn't actually a sailor himself, rather just a businessman with a boat that he steered himself rather than delegating this to hired sailors. As the Uskoks approached Karolai found some fear in himself. He had used his blade before, but these weren't just rabble before him. These were men terrorizing an area of water perhaps as large as the entire Empire. He might get a few lucky swings, perhaps even a good chop to end the days of one of the pirates, but ultimately he foresaw his head ending up as being the decoration of a pointy stick if truly a fight broke out. Some of the sailors of the Queen Marice looked like quite hefty men and women that would certainly give what they got, but they had the same problem as Karol; they weren't true paramilitaries like the men accosting them. Turning his head a little the young Prince examined Hilda, and the sheepish way she looked at her sabre feeling apologetic. It was a joint effort that got the duo to their predicament, but with the cavalier attitude drilled into him Karl couldn't help but feel responsible for the potential death or life in captivity Hilda might end up with after this. Still, there was a chance this was all pessimism. The lad took a two handed grip on his blade, raising it for a quick kiss to be followed by a short prayer to whoever might be listening. There was a chance, there was always a chance they'd beat the pirates if it came to a fight. In the corner of his eye the Egyszer saw somebody loading a heavy crannequin crossbow, which he suspected would be the start to the fighting.
But... it wouldn't be. As Karolai twisted his neck this way and that in stretches that he'd seen other warriors do before battle, Hilda spoke up. Nobody, absolutely nobody foresaw what she said, and a sailor of the Queen Marice quite literally soiled himself at the sounds. The Captain wanted to interject, but he was far too late and knew that to go against her story would simply now be to dig a grave a metre deeper. There was for him at least the small (in fact microscopic) positive that all attention was on the lass for at least everyone wouldn't be able to see they could fill a bucket with the sweat dripping off of him. Even the Uskoks previously so bold and smug had all the wind punched right out of them. After about a moment their Captain realized that his furry jaw was hanging and with a snapping noise he shut it, trying to regain composure. The man puffed his chest out and stuck out his chin with a puff of mustache hanging down either side of his face. Yes, he wouldn't be getting a chance to loot this ship. But somewhere in this red haired girl's speech he had heard the word reward, and was very eager to pursue that word. "So be it, then!" the man announced. "An escort we shall be, then! It is mostly Uskoks here, but Southlander pirates are at times unwise enough to venture here. Wouldn't want honourable servants of the Empire to find themselves caught by assailed so close to the end of their journey, am I right boys?" A series of cheers followed.
With that from the sails and from lower decks emerged a great many more sailors of the Uskok vessel, clearly hidden intentionally until now. They went to man the vessel letting the Queen Marice a slight lead, albeit not a very large one to insure they wouldn't miss out on the promised reward. Her Captain called out for a first mate to grab the steering wheel, before running down to Hilda. He was about to scream, but realized that would give away the conspiracy just in time to not exclaim. Rather calmly - albeit with frustration showing in his eyes - the man spoke up. "Alright me lass, I would like a very concise explanation of what you think you're doing. So we'll get to port, and then what? We can pawn off all we have here up to the clothes on our back and maybe get enough money to have this 'reward' to hand over, but what when someone blabs or they see we're not on some mission? You think them following us up the shore and cutting our throats in our sleep a few days later is worth while? What when they realize they were duped and some day later catch us again not caring we paid up the passage fees?" Of course, the Captain was perhaps not realizing that most of these worries did not apply to Hilda, Karolai, and the many others who if remaining sane would likely have no desire to cross these same lands again. Karolai wanted to speak up, but he really didn't know what to say. The boy knew something of those wizards that spoke about there being an infinite amount of worlds, with an infinite amount of possibilities. What had transpired was so unthinkable though, that he reckoned they would not be able to dream up a single universe in which it had happened. Yet it had, and while the repetition of just how unexpected what happened was wouldn't do the young man any good it still amazed him what an extraordinary woman he had come to travel with.
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Hilda Vera de Rondón
Established
Named after the fallen city, Zephyra Silverfire lives disguised as Hilda Vera de Rondón.
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: 18
Physical Description: She is a tall, lithe red-head girl with sun-kissed freckled skin and brown eyes that shine gold in the sunlight, often seen sparkling with a knowing, and mischief around loved ones. A soft sought-after beauty. Still considered a 'Plain Jane' to those outside her inner circle. She has a strong physique.
Clothes and Equipment: When out and about, Lady Hilda can be seen dressed in simple, yet fine gowns that most can tell her noble standing in spite of the neutral tones. In private time, the lady prefers to wear tunic and trousers with riding boots.
Lady Hilda has a sword, as well as a set of armor she had commissioned by a female blacksmith, who curates armors for women. Women who prefer to carry a sword more than anything, and go to war alongside the men, when called for or not.
Registered: Aug 19, 2019 12:36:06 GMT -8
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Post by Hilda Vera de Rondón on Feb 1, 2020 21:48:31 GMT -8
Hilda's stomach sank as the outcome of her bet revealed itself in the best possible way and the worst. As the cheers died off from the pirate vessel, Queen Marice sailed forth unscathed and whole, but the pirates followed closely behind, unable to pass on the opportunity to collect on her promised reward. Although she had successfully prevented a fight, and therefore any loss of life, they were still in danger. It took several moments of deep breathing to not lose her cool; that speech had taken everything out of her, and then some. As she climbed down from the rigging, her hands shook. Her heart fluttered as she met the silent stares of the crew. As the Captain gave his steely response, and in her emotional state had the nerve to look up into his face. "Someone had to keep us all from getting killed," she hissed with a glare. "I have just bought us all some time. What happens to you because of your unpaid dues is none of my concern, Captain. Perhaps you had best get underway with developing a proper strategy to get us all out of this mess, lest the wrath of the Egyszer King falls upon your head, as well as those pirates." She pushed the saber in her hand into the hands of another and sat on a barrel before her knees gave out from under her.
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Karolai Ferenc
Established
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: Youth
Physical Description: Karl has a long, thick mane of arguably effeminate sand-blond hair. His eyes are a cold steel shade, while his skin a soft beige-pink. The man has soft cheeks and nose, but a pronounced chin and shapely ears. He is of toned but not exceptionally muscular build, on a frame that is likewise tall but not exceptionally so.
Clothes and Equipment: Generally will wear fine but not particularly ornate clothing, trying for the biggest synthesis of comfort and style that he can get. Will at his hip have a messer and/or hand crossbow for self defence.
Registered: Aug 22, 2019 15:48:22 GMT -8
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Post by Karolai Ferenc on Feb 2, 2020 16:08:58 GMT -8
The sweaty Captain scoffed at the rebuttal he faced. "Killed tomorrow isn't much better than killed today!" he reasoned, forehead wrinkling with indignation. But at the mention of King Ottokar, he man let out a light growl before staring at Karolai who in turn raised either hand placatingly. Shaking his head the rotund Captain climbed up some rigging himself so his crew could hear, before speaking. "Everyone fork over your money to the Quartermaster. Fork over your gold, your silver, your jewelry; everything we can sell quickly. If you don't then you'll get tied up and thrown overboard where those buggers can't see what we've done, you mark my words!" With that he hopped down, and got back to the steering with an impressive grumbling under his breath.
With the Captain going off on his own way Karolai ran towards the worn out Hilda, kneeling by the barrel she sat upon. He should have asked her if she needed water after that speech, or if the sun was too much, but really there was something occupying all of his mind. "Well. You're full of surprises!" Karl noted. Realizing he was being rather ungentlemanly, but also that it was too late to try and interject some self sacrifice to the girl. Instead he simply decided to go on with discussing the next step for the two whose fates for now seemed so very closely intertwined. "When we get to harbour... what do we do?" he asked, keeping his voice low lest something be mentioned they wouldn't want the Captain or other crewmembers to overhear. "We could just leg it. The moment the gangplank drops we run, get to the first stables we can find and nick a horse. It depends where the Captain decides to go, but I know some Free Cities not too far we could rest. Then of course, it'd be only a day, maybe two to ride to Logosu to my father's palace. The man'll grumble but he'll send you with an armed escort to your family."
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Hilda Vera de Rondón
Established
Named after the fallen city, Zephyra Silverfire lives disguised as Hilda Vera de Rondón.
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: 18
Physical Description: She is a tall, lithe red-head girl with sun-kissed freckled skin and brown eyes that shine gold in the sunlight, often seen sparkling with a knowing, and mischief around loved ones. A soft sought-after beauty. Still considered a 'Plain Jane' to those outside her inner circle. She has a strong physique.
Clothes and Equipment: When out and about, Lady Hilda can be seen dressed in simple, yet fine gowns that most can tell her noble standing in spite of the neutral tones. In private time, the lady prefers to wear tunic and trousers with riding boots.
Lady Hilda has a sword, as well as a set of armor she had commissioned by a female blacksmith, who curates armors for women. Women who prefer to carry a sword more than anything, and go to war alongside the men, when called for or not.
Registered: Aug 19, 2019 12:36:06 GMT -8
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Post by Hilda Vera de Rondón on Feb 2, 2020 17:02:41 GMT -8
As the ship sailed they could feel the warm breeze against their skin, which helped to ease Hilda's wired nerves. She could not help a small smile over Karol's wholesome reaction, however. Then he went on to try at some sort of plan to get out of all this. "An excellent suggestion, your highness, but I do not think we should stay put until we reach the harbor," she lamented. "We should take a raft in the night to avoid any trouble from the Captain, or the Pirates on our tail. They may yet catch onto our bluff, and the Captain... well, who knows what he might try. We can rest up until then. What say you?"
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Karolai Ferenc
Established
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: Youth
Physical Description: Karl has a long, thick mane of arguably effeminate sand-blond hair. His eyes are a cold steel shade, while his skin a soft beige-pink. The man has soft cheeks and nose, but a pronounced chin and shapely ears. He is of toned but not exceptionally muscular build, on a frame that is likewise tall but not exceptionally so.
Clothes and Equipment: Generally will wear fine but not particularly ornate clothing, trying for the biggest synthesis of comfort and style that he can get. Will at his hip have a messer and/or hand crossbow for self defence.
Registered: Aug 22, 2019 15:48:22 GMT -8
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Post by Karolai Ferenc on Feb 3, 2020 12:50:53 GMT -8
Karolai giggled a little about being referred to as "your highness." In the very depths of his heart he enjoyed it, for even if there was a potential hint of sarcasm it was still a padding of the ego. With that said, at the surface of his personality Karolai did not like the words and made sure to point it out. "Please! 'Your highness' was my father; call me 'your moderation'." the young Egyszer jested, glad to see that Hilda was in better spirits.
The lad drummed his fingers on his knee at the counter-proposal he got. Well there was certainly reason enough in it. He leaned over the side of vessel, noting several smaller boats tied to the side with oars within. "Well... it's risky, but I suppose so is staying and deciding to see what our little friends do with us. So, rest until midnight, then we're off?"
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Hilda Vera de Rondón
Established
Named after the fallen city, Zephyra Silverfire lives disguised as Hilda Vera de Rondón.
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: 18
Physical Description: She is a tall, lithe red-head girl with sun-kissed freckled skin and brown eyes that shine gold in the sunlight, often seen sparkling with a knowing, and mischief around loved ones. A soft sought-after beauty. Still considered a 'Plain Jane' to those outside her inner circle. She has a strong physique.
Clothes and Equipment: When out and about, Lady Hilda can be seen dressed in simple, yet fine gowns that most can tell her noble standing in spite of the neutral tones. In private time, the lady prefers to wear tunic and trousers with riding boots.
Lady Hilda has a sword, as well as a set of armor she had commissioned by a female blacksmith, who curates armors for women. Women who prefer to carry a sword more than anything, and go to war alongside the men, when called for or not.
Registered: Aug 19, 2019 12:36:06 GMT -8
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Post by Hilda Vera de Rondón on Feb 3, 2020 23:18:52 GMT -8
Hilda smiled and nodded at Karol. It seemed that it was one thing after another, yet felt confident that with him, they would overcome. She wouldn't admit to how frightened she felt; that much he observed by the uncertain glances and nervous ticks. But she would continue putting on a brave face, as she always did during tricky circumstances, such as the one they currently faced.
In the sleeping quarters, Hilda somehow managed to relax and fall asleep, where she dreamt of a dreary dream. The pair made their way to the raft on which they would make their escape under the dazzling light of the moon. They began to row away from Queen Marice on the sea, only to be discovered by the malicious marauders and apprehended. A shrill shriek pierced the air as the Uskoks carved into Karolai's face, and she realized the voice came from her as they laughed. Once healed would be indefinitely unrecognizable as the Egyszer Prince.
Hilda awoke with a start, reeling as her hands frantically reached out. They found Karol, who stood over her as he woke her with a gentle shake. Upon seeing that his appearance was still as elegant as ever, she let out a thankful sigh. "Ay, Santa Zephyra," she gasped, eyes darting as she recalled the terrible images of the Prince's bloodied face, "I had the most horrid dream!" She whispered loudly, careful not to disturb the sleeping sailors all around.
"We were taken by those pirate bastards and and and they cut up your wonderful face. Karola, what if we do get captured? What if we get hurt?" Hilda's eyes were suddenly on his, searching and pleading, and suddenly afraid. "Perhaps I was foolish to say we should leave. I do not know what I was thinking. Let us stay here, shall we?"
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Karolai Ferenc
Established
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: Youth
Physical Description: Karl has a long, thick mane of arguably effeminate sand-blond hair. His eyes are a cold steel shade, while his skin a soft beige-pink. The man has soft cheeks and nose, but a pronounced chin and shapely ears. He is of toned but not exceptionally muscular build, on a frame that is likewise tall but not exceptionally so.
Clothes and Equipment: Generally will wear fine but not particularly ornate clothing, trying for the biggest synthesis of comfort and style that he can get. Will at his hip have a messer and/or hand crossbow for self defence.
Registered: Aug 22, 2019 15:48:22 GMT -8
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Post by Karolai Ferenc on Feb 5, 2020 23:30:47 GMT -8
The two managed to come to agreement on their next course of action and Karolai was very glad of that fact. When your life is in the balance, resolve is very important. Admittedly, Karolai did not have too much experience with life and death situations. However, it was a conclusion that wasn't particularly hard to come to.
The young Prince took the burden of properly getting ready for the escape to come on himself. He didn't properly go to sleep, making sure he took a series of small naps but never true sleep lest he rest for too long. When he awoke for the last time, the rest of the crew was largely asleep and thus his playthings. A set of keys were lifted, and with a bit of climbing along the vessel's sides he got to the Captain's cabin to open a small chest containing the gold the boy had used to buy this trip for himself and Hilda. After a thought and dismissal of initial reservations that it wouldn't be fair, he also took a map, telescope, a waterskin, a bottle of rum, and the man's unfinished dinner packed neatly into the chest, before slinging along a sword and hand-crossbow too. A veritable survival kit, at least in the eyes of someone never having to do much real survival. Climbing back with the chest was much, much harder. He couldn't really hold it, so instead he squeezed it to the wood of the ship while slowly moving along until he could drop the chest into one of the small boats at the side of the ship. Climbing back on the deck, the young Egyszer made sure nobody heard or saw him before tip-toeing to Hilda.
He almost came upon the wrong woman, thanking whoever might listen for giving wisdom to get more acquainted with the darkness before shaking the first red haired girl he found awake. Eventually he found the right one, and gave one tap, then two then three. Eventually he realized after what they had been through her sleep would be very deep, and by some movements he saw in her he could guess she was entranced in a dream. Karl gave her a shake, and she awoke with a start. She was quick enough to make sure not to make too much noise, although nevertheless the lad demonstratively put a finger to his lips.
Once more the curious paradox came to Karolai wherein his ego was padded, but with all his ideology and convictions he had to show humility. Then, he realized all that was nonsense distracting from the fact the two were in very grave danger. "Yeah, it was a dream because that's the only place my face is 'wonderful'. Get up!" he hissed, motioning with a hand. "It's too late to back out. I stole things, and the luck that let me get away with that has run out so I won't get to put them back without being caught. Let's go! I've already decided I'm going. I might get away, but without a pair of hands to help row I might not make it to shore. If I do, though, you might end up with a lot of explaining to do and no friends to help. Come on!" Karolai spoke fast, his voice carelessly increasing with volume as some panic set in. Hilda having second thoughts was not good, and he tried as fast as possible to convince her to go through with the escape going from several angles be it the argument she would suffer alone if they didn't work together, or that regardless guilt for Karl's death would fall on her. In truth Karolai knew he couldn't just leave her like that, but for the sake of their escape he had to make sure she didn't know this.
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Hilda Vera de Rondón
Established
Named after the fallen city, Zephyra Silverfire lives disguised as Hilda Vera de Rondón.
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: 18
Physical Description: She is a tall, lithe red-head girl with sun-kissed freckled skin and brown eyes that shine gold in the sunlight, often seen sparkling with a knowing, and mischief around loved ones. A soft sought-after beauty. Still considered a 'Plain Jane' to those outside her inner circle. She has a strong physique.
Clothes and Equipment: When out and about, Lady Hilda can be seen dressed in simple, yet fine gowns that most can tell her noble standing in spite of the neutral tones. In private time, the lady prefers to wear tunic and trousers with riding boots.
Lady Hilda has a sword, as well as a set of armor she had commissioned by a female blacksmith, who curates armors for women. Women who prefer to carry a sword more than anything, and go to war alongside the men, when called for or not.
Registered: Aug 19, 2019 12:36:06 GMT -8
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Post by Hilda Vera de Rondón on Feb 6, 2020 10:57:01 GMT -8
"Alright, alright, alright," Hilda groused, trying to calm Karolai, who seemed to have lost his senses, "let's go." With his eyes bloodshot, she wondered if he had slept at all, and began to worry. If she still felt deprived, he must've felt much worse. She went with him, mind shot and eyes anxiously wandering as they silently skulked past the dormant crew and hurried behind the one patrolling sailor on deck. A few jittery breaths went by ere they finally reached their raft, and she helped to lower it onto the rough black water below. She rowed with a vengeance, her restless brain believing they would be overwhelmed by the ship if they didn't move away from it fast enough. She rowed beyond the point of her arms going numb and seeing the ships disappear beyond the dark sky. As her eyes watered, it seemed as though she was trying to escape something more than physical danger.
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Karolai Ferenc
Established
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: Youth
Physical Description: Karl has a long, thick mane of arguably effeminate sand-blond hair. His eyes are a cold steel shade, while his skin a soft beige-pink. The man has soft cheeks and nose, but a pronounced chin and shapely ears. He is of toned but not exceptionally muscular build, on a frame that is likewise tall but not exceptionally so.
Clothes and Equipment: Generally will wear fine but not particularly ornate clothing, trying for the biggest synthesis of comfort and style that he can get. Will at his hip have a messer and/or hand crossbow for self defence.
Registered: Aug 22, 2019 15:48:22 GMT -8
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Post by Karolai Ferenc on Feb 6, 2020 18:35:33 GMT -8
Karolai relaxed somewhat as Hilda agreed. "Good." was all that he could say, wiping away a bead of sweat that formed in the previous few moments of powerful emotion. The crew was for the most part sleeping, only a few men left to tend to the sails and rigging as well as two men left to steer and a sing guard about. But it was still enough to potentially have the duo's escape noticed and to have them hence have their lives - or, at least ones that were very pleasant - ended. A pause here, a crouch there, and some luck everywhere insured the two safely got into the boat Karolai placed the chest in and with his messer Karl cut the ropes holding the rowboat to the Queen Marice.
Their rowboat fell and it was in this moment Karolai had realized he didn't think of the very loud splash that was produced. He climbed back up the deck, and peered over finding to his delight that nobody seemed to overhear what had happened. The young Egyszer jumped back down, and took off his boot to scoop out and then pour out some of the water they took in. With their excess weight out, Karolai picked up a paddle and thus the two rowed. "You know I'm glad Dorika didn't agree to come to the ball. If she did, right now she'd be sitting right there in front of us with her arms crossed and pointing out how I'm rowing wrong." a joke, hopefully to diffuse the tenseness of the situation. Everything was a haze, and Karolai though that he might have come off too strong upon Hilda back in the sleeping quarters... he didn't really remember.
They made it to the shore, the Prince pulling up the boat further onto the sand until he realized they wouldn't really need it anymore. In fact, chances were that the boat would only give away where they landed if the Uskoks or the Captain were to really desire to find them. Thus he removed the chest and then gave the rowboat a few kicks before it went into the water, and drifted along the shore. "Well, we're safe, I suppose." the lad announced. He removed the map from the chest, and cursed himself for not bringing a compass along. Well, they knew where the sun set and rose and that would do for now. "Hungry?" Karol asked. He rummaged further in the chest, removing the waterskin and taking a few swigs. "Thinking of sleeping 'til morning, try to go inland and find a road from there. We'll have no problem getting a horse I think, and then as first planned it's just a day or two ride."
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Hilda Vera de Rondón
Established
Named after the fallen city, Zephyra Silverfire lives disguised as Hilda Vera de Rondón.
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: 18
Physical Description: She is a tall, lithe red-head girl with sun-kissed freckled skin and brown eyes that shine gold in the sunlight, often seen sparkling with a knowing, and mischief around loved ones. A soft sought-after beauty. Still considered a 'Plain Jane' to those outside her inner circle. She has a strong physique.
Clothes and Equipment: When out and about, Lady Hilda can be seen dressed in simple, yet fine gowns that most can tell her noble standing in spite of the neutral tones. In private time, the lady prefers to wear tunic and trousers with riding boots.
Lady Hilda has a sword, as well as a set of armor she had commissioned by a female blacksmith, who curates armors for women. Women who prefer to carry a sword more than anything, and go to war alongside the men, when called for or not.
Registered: Aug 19, 2019 12:36:06 GMT -8
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Post by Hilda Vera de Rondón on Feb 7, 2020 9:49:26 GMT -8
When they reached the sandy shores, Hilda was grateful to be back on land but was all too distracted by the likelihood of Queen Marice coming after them. Now that Karolai had so wisely chosen to take back what was once his, their coverage was gone. Now Queen Marice had nothing to give the pirates that were coming after them. Hilda paced back and forth as Karolai busied himself with the chest, then froze when he asked if she was hungry. "Am I hungry," she repeated, her head flipping around to glare before turning and marching toward him. Yes, she was hungry. Yes, she was tired and thirsty. But there was a pressing matter at the front of her mind. She began to pick up driftwood and throw it at him. "Eres un idiota! Do you not realize what you have done? They might have kept going with that gold in their possession. Now they will surely come back to us! I am not sure if you remember how many sailors were on that ship. Did you also conveniently forget about the pirates behind them? Did you even take a nap to think about it first? I should just tie you up and leave you here for them! I am certain that they will be most happy to fight over who gets to claim the royal pup! That will give me enough time to get away!"
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Karolai Ferenc
Established
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: Youth
Physical Description: Karl has a long, thick mane of arguably effeminate sand-blond hair. His eyes are a cold steel shade, while his skin a soft beige-pink. The man has soft cheeks and nose, but a pronounced chin and shapely ears. He is of toned but not exceptionally muscular build, on a frame that is likewise tall but not exceptionally so.
Clothes and Equipment: Generally will wear fine but not particularly ornate clothing, trying for the biggest synthesis of comfort and style that he can get. Will at his hip have a messer and/or hand crossbow for self defence.
Registered: Aug 22, 2019 15:48:22 GMT -8
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Post by Karolai Ferenc on Feb 8, 2020 11:44:50 GMT -8
"Ow-ow, stop! Stop it!" Karolai said, covering his head and rather ineffectually trying to swipe away thrown chunks of wood. "I don't know what the first words were but I can tell they weren't very nice." the lad continued, waiting until the throwing stopped to speak up properly.
"Look, calm down. They won't realize what was stolen until morning, and by then they'll have far bigger problems than us. Now, if we go out in the dark we'll surely get caught by the highwaymen and other bastards that go about these lands when the hour is late. They will take our money, belongings and then leave my pretty face ripped apart anyway; fine company can't mention what fate you might meet. Besides, with all the time we were under the deck and the turns they took while we were there I do not remember where East and West are, nor North and South. Do you? I'd rather wait until morning so we can find our bearings, find a town without every moment being under threat of banditry. 'sides, I'm just about to run out of consciousness to give. If you think you can somehow get to safety now, though, you're welcome to try. I know I can't right now, but I'm not much really."
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Hilda Vera de Rondón
Established
Named after the fallen city, Zephyra Silverfire lives disguised as Hilda Vera de Rondón.
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: 18
Physical Description: She is a tall, lithe red-head girl with sun-kissed freckled skin and brown eyes that shine gold in the sunlight, often seen sparkling with a knowing, and mischief around loved ones. A soft sought-after beauty. Still considered a 'Plain Jane' to those outside her inner circle. She has a strong physique.
Clothes and Equipment: When out and about, Lady Hilda can be seen dressed in simple, yet fine gowns that most can tell her noble standing in spite of the neutral tones. In private time, the lady prefers to wear tunic and trousers with riding boots.
Lady Hilda has a sword, as well as a set of armor she had commissioned by a female blacksmith, who curates armors for women. Women who prefer to carry a sword more than anything, and go to war alongside the men, when called for or not.
Registered: Aug 19, 2019 12:36:06 GMT -8
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Post by Hilda Vera de Rondón on Feb 8, 2020 12:24:03 GMT -8
Hilda glared at the prince, almost grinding her teeth as her jaw clenched, lips pressed together in a bitter line. The temptation to let go of everything she had been holding back was impossibly strong and grew like adding kindling to a fire.
The years of pretending she was a simple lady instead of the heir of the Silverfire, and fire of the rebellion. That she couldn't read the stars for directions, or foretell the weather based on the shape of the clouds and the position of a tree. The pit in her stomach swelled to think that she couldn't for the sake of keeping a false identity.
She began to wonder if it even mattered, anymore. There was little hope of ever going home, now.
But he was right. They couldn't find bandits or highwaymen. Their best chance was to stay put and rest.
Hilda slumped down into the sand, arms around her knees, defeated and teary-eyed. She hadn't meant anything she'd said; to tie him up and leave him behind. There wasn't any way or any scenario she found herself betraying Karol. They were in it together now, whether they liked it or not.
"Got any food in that chest," she sniffed.
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Karolai Ferenc
Established
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: Youth
Physical Description: Karl has a long, thick mane of arguably effeminate sand-blond hair. His eyes are a cold steel shade, while his skin a soft beige-pink. The man has soft cheeks and nose, but a pronounced chin and shapely ears. He is of toned but not exceptionally muscular build, on a frame that is likewise tall but not exceptionally so.
Clothes and Equipment: Generally will wear fine but not particularly ornate clothing, trying for the biggest synthesis of comfort and style that he can get. Will at his hip have a messer and/or hand crossbow for self defence.
Registered: Aug 22, 2019 15:48:22 GMT -8
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Post by Karolai Ferenc on Feb 8, 2020 14:29:02 GMT -8
"Thank you." Karolai said once the wood throwing stopped. He picked out a few splinters and bits of sand now in his hair, before shaking his head much like a dog freshly out of water. He looked at Hilda, who's anger seemed to subside. The girl seemed to stop to do some strong thinking, and to be frank given the reaction moments ago he was a little frightened to disturb her and instead he just observed. The lad did feel a little pity though as it seemed that - much in a mirror of his own tantrum back on the ship - the end of anger would be announced by sorrow. But she didn't say anything to the effect, and thus he couldn't really react to it with a "there-there" or a pat on the shoulder.
Instead, all he did was oblige when she asked if there was food in the chest. "Yeah, the Captain had a dinner he didn't finish, wrapped it in the table spread." and to demonstrate he removed the round improvised satchel. Untying it revealed a little black bread with cheese, dried meat and fruits, and half an onion; the Captain hadn't spared any money on preventing scurvy and other mariner's ailments for himself. "There's also this if you don't water." Karolai continued, removing the bottle of rum. He wasn't much of a drinker himself, although to be frank he'd never even had rum before. He didn't have much of a taste for the strong stuff his father insisted he swill "to make a man out of you." But this was clearly a fine thing given that even while still sealed it had a gravitating aroma. "But I don't think waking up with a headache as though clobbered with a rock is wise. Probably best to keep it to bribe some bastard. Perhaps I'll make a gift of it to my father, it might help make his face just pink rather than red with fury when seeing him."
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Hilda Vera de Rondón
Established
Named after the fallen city, Zephyra Silverfire lives disguised as Hilda Vera de Rondón.
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: 18
Physical Description: She is a tall, lithe red-head girl with sun-kissed freckled skin and brown eyes that shine gold in the sunlight, often seen sparkling with a knowing, and mischief around loved ones. A soft sought-after beauty. Still considered a 'Plain Jane' to those outside her inner circle. She has a strong physique.
Clothes and Equipment: When out and about, Lady Hilda can be seen dressed in simple, yet fine gowns that most can tell her noble standing in spite of the neutral tones. In private time, the lady prefers to wear tunic and trousers with riding boots.
Lady Hilda has a sword, as well as a set of armor she had commissioned by a female blacksmith, who curates armors for women. Women who prefer to carry a sword more than anything, and go to war alongside the men, when called for or not.
Registered: Aug 19, 2019 12:36:06 GMT -8
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Post by Hilda Vera de Rondón on Feb 9, 2020 18:10:01 GMT -8
Hilda realized how cold it truly was when she began to shiver, feeling it most in her hands and feet, where she was still wet from the ocean spray. All that sneaking around and running for their lives had been a real distraction from it.
Hilda's jaw dropped as Karol unrolled the makeshift reticule, her eyes slack and long with bewilderment. She couldn't decide whether to adore or abhor the prince's careless savagery. On the one hand, it showed incredible resourcefulness under strenuous circumstances. On the other, it was disgusting. One moment, Hilda thought she should refuse to eat from the scraps of a common criminal. The next, she realized she was running on fumes.
Already having refused to eat the revolting grey gruel the sailors had called food the days they had been on that dreadful ship. It wasn't strange for a lady to forego meals for the sake of a better figure, although Hilda never had to do so herself. Nevertheless, her stomach growled; hunger won over pride. It took great self-control not to snatch the meal from the prince's hands, humbly accepting it before scarfing everything down but the bread and helping it with a swig of rum. The warmth in her belly spread.
"They will not be paying any attention to it when they see this fancy chest we carrying with us," she lamented, gesturing at the thing before handing the rum back to him, "come, now, have some yourself. You will be needing it if you are to somehow keep warm without a proper fire and I do not think you are a pyromancer. Besides, we must celebrate our successful escape."
Whether he drank or not was up to him, but Hilda soon found herself looking up at the moon.
"Is your father truly so... boorish? I worry for mine. I wonder if he made it out alive..."
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Karolai Ferenc
Established
Roleplay posts: 24
Age: Youth
Physical Description: Karl has a long, thick mane of arguably effeminate sand-blond hair. His eyes are a cold steel shade, while his skin a soft beige-pink. The man has soft cheeks and nose, but a pronounced chin and shapely ears. He is of toned but not exceptionally muscular build, on a frame that is likewise tall but not exceptionally so.
Clothes and Equipment: Generally will wear fine but not particularly ornate clothing, trying for the biggest synthesis of comfort and style that he can get. Will at his hip have a messer and/or hand crossbow for self defence.
Registered: Aug 22, 2019 15:48:22 GMT -8
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Post by Karolai Ferenc on Feb 9, 2020 23:57:48 GMT -8
Still feeling a rush of energy from their escape, Karolai likewise started to feel the elements beating down on him after seeing the shivers in Hilda. The Egyszer cursed quietly, trying his best to hide the sudden feeling of cold that overcame him. For the most part he was able to force down the shivers save for an occasional chatter of his jaw. It was hard work looking all cavalier when your body did not really want to cooperate, but Karl promised to himself he'd do his best.
Raising a golden eyebrow as Hilda took a swig and then handed the bottle to Karolai, he paused while examining the thing. "You know, alcohol gives a bit of a burn-like feeling, but really it lowers your body temperature, its funny what you remember from your tutors at times like these." Turning the bottle this way and that he shrugged. "It's just a trick of the mind. But you know what, I think I could go for being tricked right about now." with that he took a heavy gulp of the stuff, closing his mouth with his hands as momentarily reflexes made him try to spit it out. Forcing the stuff down he looked with some confusion to Hilda as she asked her question, before he shrugged for a second time. "I don't know. Maybe. Then again maybe its an act he puts up until he molds me into something he's satisfied with. He has the forcefulness of any other noble combined with the bluntness of a commoner. See, like me he ran off in his childhood whenever he could. But rather than traveling far and wide he spent time with the local peasants which has in a way... simplified life for him, I suppose? To be honest I can't pretend to know what goes in his head. He makes a showing of himself as an old-fashioned barbarian, but I know he's more than that." Another gulp of the stuff, this one going down easier. "I'd say don't worry, everything will be alright. But those bloodsuckers... I don't know. Even now I'm frightened maybe they got some of their evil teeth into me that I haven't noticed, maybe some into you." As he said the words, Karol was glad he saw his counterpart eating the remains of the Captain's dinner; it meant he wasn't on the menu.
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