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Post by Knights of the Harvest on Apr 17, 2016 8:00:00 GMT -8
 Havburg
This chapter house belongs to the Knights of the Harvest, a knightly order found within the Land-Tiller's Expanse, named in honor of Elder Havador . The Brotherhood ( The Kingdom of Audria ) played an integral role in providing the funds and resources to construct this castle, and have volunteered to train the first knights of the order; however, it should be noted that the Knights of the Harvest are a separate entity. These are secular knights drawn only from the Expanse, who have sworn oaths to guard and protect the land. The Knights of the Harvest live within the castle. Surrounding the castle is an expanse of farmland, the crops of which are maintained by the Knights themselves; this humble activity teaches the knights the importance of patience, and keeps them in touch with the spirit of the Expanse. After tending to their crops, the Knights train for the rest of the day. Training may come in the form of melee sparring, magical practice (as the natives of the Expanse are attuned to some magic), and archery; the Knights are also drilled in equestrianism; each Knight has several warhorses in the stable, and they are responsible for tending to them. Sunday is the only day of rest for the Knights, and on that day recreational activities are often pursued. Every so often, the Knights are permitted leave of absence, when they may travel and visit family. The Knights all have squires as well, who usually reside in the village surrounding the castle. These squires must tend to their own crops as well, and help care for the Knights' horses. They must train alongside the Knights, and are expected to ride into battle alongside them when needed. Experienced smiths have been relocated to Havburg to live in the village; these smiths are responsible for forging and maintaining the arms and armor of the Knights, but they have considerable work maintaining the farming tools as well. Artisans have moved here to ply their trades to the locals, and merchants often visit to sell their wares as well. Finally, the Havburg Tavern serves the locals and travelers. The Knights of the Harvest are currently led by Master Kamoa of the Chataugau and Knight-Captain Rohak of the Dittany . Other notable members include: ________ ________ ________ Current garrison: [x2 characters=2,000 NPCs] 150 Knights: The Knights are all well-trained, well-equipped, disciplined warriors who most often ride warhorses into battle, and are supported by their squires. These Knights are drawn exclusively from the Expanse. 1,550 Men-at-Arms: The Men-at-Arms are the commoners and laborers who live in Havburg, but are not exactly Knights. They are farmers, artisans, merchants, etc. The Knights provide them with armor and weapons and they may act as heavy infantry, light infantry, missile infantry, and more.  |
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Post by Kamoa of the Chataugau on Apr 17, 2016 8:35:15 GMT -8
"It's... it's a bit much," Kamoa admitted, his eyes scanning the great stone structure that stood before him. "And it will take time for me to get use to it," he said after a moment's pause. Hochmeister Konrad, who stood beside the chieftain, grinned and patted the Elder of the Chataugau Tribe on the shoulder to reassure him. "Of course, Kamoa. Ease into it; it'll feel like home in no time. At least you have the forests nearby," Konrad pointed over at the forests at the edge of the farmlands. Kamoa gloomily looked over at the woods. "Perhaps." He sighed, tired from the tour that Konrad had just given him of the stone castle, but he was also home-sick; being out of his native forests, and here in the great wide open felt uncomfortable. The Chataugau was a peaceful, creature-loving tribe found within remote forests of the Expanse, mostly separate from the rest of the tribes. They could communicate with beasts of the wild to help them in their daily lives and in combat. The tribe was under constant threat of hostile tribes who lived further in the woods, and so adopted a warrior-like ethos to defend themselves. And that was exactly why Konrad had chose Chieftain Kamoa. Kamoa was a warrior; Kamoa had led warriors; Kamoa had victories, and he had defeats; he loved his people, and he would do whatever he had to do to defend them. It was all the qualities of a knight - and being that Kamoa was a chieftain, he had the skills of a leader. Finally he would be able to commune with the warhorses. These traits made him the perfect candidate. Konrad decided that Kamoa could retain his political status as chieftain, and he could return back to his tribe soon; for now, however, he had volunteered to head the Knights of the Harvest - just for a while. Konrad turned to get back on his white horse. "I trust you, Kamoa. Some of my own Knight-Brothers will stay behind to train anyone willing to become Knights of the Harvest. Good luck," Konrad saluted Kamoa and turned to leave. "Goodbye, good friend," Kamoa said to him and watched him go. Perhaps Elder Havador and others ( Rohak of the Dittany) was on their way to inspect the grand structure; if so, Kamoa would greet them in the outdoors; he did not want to reenter this stone spectacle anytime soon! |
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Rohak of the Dittany
Established
Roleplay posts: 21 
Age: 37
Physical Description: 6'3, big beefy man with dark skin and big muscles
Registered: Apr 11, 2016 18:09:10 GMT -8
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Post by Rohak of the Dittany on Apr 17, 2016 9:19:47 GMT -8
"So this is my new home? Interesting." Rohak had arrived with what few possessions he had, his cloth and leather armor with bits of metal, and his Saskatoon Greatsword. "Kamoa is gonna be the leader huh? Kamoa... Kamoa... where is the old feather head?"
Rohak was originally born into the Dittany clan, a peaceful bunch specializing in growing medicinal herbs and using healing magic. But Rohak himself never seemed to fit in with his family. His sisters were all sweet, delicate things while he was a macho ruffian who would climb trees and wrestle with deer. His family loved him, but he would get scolded all the time for his aggressiveness. And while the Dittany emigrants who traveled or did work for other clans were known for their academic skills, Rohak could barely read.
Rohak was nothing without a strong sense of justice however, and his heart too overflowed with love. It just didn't manifest the way it did with his brethren. So at 17, Rohak left in search of physical labor, combat, and adventure. His dream was to protect the innocent and be a hero. That was how he met Kamoa and the Chataugau clan.
In fact it was Kamoa who recommended him to the Brotherhood after they had fought so many battles together.
As soon as he saw him, he waved. "Kamoa!" He ran up to him. "Kamoa, so they made you the leader of this place. Hah, it looks like someone took some Celadine stone towers and glued them together, then polished them! Aarr..." He reached out and hugged Kamoa. "My old friend, how have you been?"
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Post by Land Tillers' State on Apr 17, 2016 9:52:35 GMT -8
In the background, consultants from the Celadine, Kush, and Dittany clans were instructing novice farmers on how to get the most out of their crop. They had brought in dozens of seeds that tended to go well together and were using magical runes to study the soil. Anyone who could use earth and water magic was being instructed in how to water the roots most efficiently, encourage crop growth carefully with magic, and harvest crops without harming the earthworms in the land. The seeds they were using were customized for the climate and promote each other's growth. Even in times of disaster or drought, these farms would continue to produce yields. |
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Post by Kamoa of the Chataugau on Apr 17, 2016 10:42:08 GMT -8
"Rohak," Kamoa grinned as he turned his head to greet his old friend, then struggled to breath as the man hugged him. "I've been well, I suppose. Being here, among these stone towers, however, makes me uneasy. I prefer the woods and the longhouses." It would take some time for Kamoa to get situated and use to living in 'civilized' settings. "I suggested you because I needed someone familiar by my side... and because I can throw you at our enemies and I don't have to worry about joining the fray," Kamoa joked.
"Come," Kamoa motioned at Rohak and led him over to where the Land-Tiller's brought some tutors who could help show the new townsfolk how to farm effectively. "This.... Konrad tells me that our 'Knights' are to tend to their own crops everyday; he believes it will keep them in touch with their roots and teach them humility. I can agree with this. But he also wishes for me to train in heavy armor; encasing myself in a suit of metal!" Kamoa's tribe wore very little or even no armor at all in their conflicts, and used wooden and stone weapons - not iron or steel. This was all very new to Kamoa.
"So, Rohak... let me show you the 'Knights'." Kamoa led Rohak through the large gateway and into the courtyard of the castle. Within were about seven Knight-Brothers from the Brotherhood, teaching the Expanse natives proper sword techniques. "Today it is swords. Tomorrow, they'll be riding their warhorses and using lances. Then it's on to wearing armor, and later archery. They say heavy cavalry dominates the battlefield where they're from; it would not be the case in the thick woods where I am from."
Kamoa walks over to a weapons rack and picks up a spear. It has a steel point, not like the stone points used in the Chigaugau tribe. He holds it in both hands, thrusts in froward a few times and stands it upright. "I think I'll stick to my spears."
Kamoa then waits to see what Rohak thinks about all of this.
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Rohak of the Dittany
Established
Roleplay posts: 21
Age: 37
Physical Description: 6'3, big beefy man with dark skin and big muscles
Registered: Apr 11, 2016 18:09:10 GMT -8
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Post by Rohak of the Dittany on Apr 17, 2016 16:56:10 GMT -8
Rohak picks up a spear and waves the steel point around. He tries to get into stance perform some thrusting maneuvers. "It's not bad. The Saskatoon use metal, but this stuff looks fancier." He places the spear back with a shrug. "Your stone and obsidian ones are sharper, but I guess these are more durable."
"I kinda like the idea of sword play. It'll make me feel like less of a freak." He points his thumb back at his own crudely constructed sword. "I've always preferred being in the thick of battle, and I've always been made fun of for it. Nearly all our tribes rely on long ranged combat, since we don't have much armor. But the Brotherhood, well, it's a good fit for a mangy bear like me. And they're good people y'know? Maybe I can get a little acceptance for being different."
He walked over to an armor rack and places a steel helmet on his head. He then jokingly knocks on his own head.
"GEEZ THAT'S LOUD!" He said with a muffled echo. He quickly takes the helmet off.
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Post by Knights of the Harvest on Apr 27, 2016 13:31:14 GMT -8
( Rohak of the Dittany this event may have taken place before your arrival in Vorstuga) The sun had not even started to make its perch on the eastern reaches of the world when the sudden sound of trumpet's erupted all over the castle, in the barracks, and the courtyard. It was followed by the loud, unwelcome yells of commanding officers: a group of 5 Knight-Brothers stationed here temporarily to train the new recruits. "Let's go, let's go, get up! Let's gooooo!" Their bare swords banged and clattered on their shields as they stomped through the barracks, giving the new recruits a rude awakening. "Courtyard, let's go!" they yelled. Rohak of the Dittany had his own quarters, but the Brothers did not hesitate bothering him too and rudely forced him down to the courtyard; Kamoa was no exception, and they shoved him down to the yard as well. When the recruits were herded to the courtyard the Knight-Brothers took wooden poles and, rudely, pushed the recruits around until they fell in line. Those who didn't have their feet cocked the right way, or those whose arms were not by their sides, or those who held their chin to low, were all reminded very quickly with the sudden smack of the wooden pole. The Knight-Brothers did not bother to knock Rohak or Kamoa around, because they should know their place, and they were to stand over to the side and watch their new recruits get broken in. Just as soon as they were in line the Knight-Brothers grabbed bowls of old, stale bread and threw it amongst the group; they'd have to quickly reach up and grab what they could and shove it in their mouth if they wanted any type of breakfast. "Stay in line, soldier," they yelled if one moved their feet. There wasn't much bread, and most of the recruits probably wouldn't get anything at all! As the last piece of bread was thrown another Knight-Brother walked by with a large barrel of water, the cap on top unloosened and he started to pour it out; the recruits in the first line would need to cup their hands and catch what little bit of water they could. "Share!" yelled the Knight, as he refused to give the other lines any water. Finally, everything got quiet, and the five Knight-Brothers stood together in front of the group ahead of some small buckets, with Rohak and Kamoa off to the side watching. "I don't see your shields," one of the Brothers mocked the recruits. "Loose!" At that point the Knights bent down, picked up the buckets, and chunked them forward, letting loose a hail of rocks on the recruits. "Let me see those shields!" The recruits hurriedly ran over to a spot where some shields were piled. Still being pelted by a barrage of rocks, the recruits picked up the shields until they realized their wasn't enough. "Protect your Brothers," the Knights barked, "shields up, watch the backs of your Brothers!" The recruits did what they could to block the barrage of rocks and tried forming a hodgepodge shield wall. "Who's hungry?" barked one of the Knight-Brothers as they stopped throwing rocks. The recruits mostly raised their hands, but some kept them down cause they thought this was another test. "Good news and bad news," the Knight-Brother said, grinning. "The bread some of you ate was poisoned. The water some of you drunk was poisoned. The rocks you got hit with was coated with firesalt. At any moment you will begin to puke. At any moment, your skin will begin to burn. Now, you will all fight until you can't fight anymore; last one standing gets a full meal. Go!" Several recruits would suddenly barf up the tainted bread and water; they'd be just fine, just a little sick for an hour or so. The entire group would also start to yell and holler as their skin burned painfully, but these effects would wear off soon enough. If they started feeling any better, the fight for the meal could begin. The Knight-Brothers walked over to Rohak and Kamoa. "After breakfast, we'll start horseback riding," one of them said enthusiastically. "If you're hungry, you can find good bread and wine in the larder. Otherwise you can watch these new recruits puke and fight their guts out." |
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Reuna Laurént
Dedicated
Roleplay posts: 361 
Age: 51
Physical Description: Reuna is a striking study in contrasts. She is just slightly above female average, height-wise, standing at 5'8", and is slender, with a fragile bone structure that makes her look weak; this is, of course, balanced out by her strength and skill in magic. Her hair is long, descending to her waist, and is purely black, which is a sharp opposition to her pale-skinned features. Her eyes are the color of amethyst, dark and intense, and are usually the only method from which one can derive her mood, as she very rarely displays her emotions via facial expressions. She appears young, in her mid-thirties, although if one looks closely enough, they can see the beginnings of fine lines around her eyes and mouth. Although few have ever seen them, due to her tendency to keep herself fully covered from neck to toes, she has whip-mark scars covering most of her back, and scars from long periods spent in manacles around both of her wrists, remnants from her days as a slave.
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Clothes and Equipment: Generally, Reuna wears one of five sets of identical robes, with high collars and long slightly-loose sleeves, in black, dark grey, purple, dark green, and dark blue. Commonly-carried equipment consists of her personal grimoire, a traveling writing kit (with ink well, quills, and writing desk), and a belt with pouches that contain various items (both magical and non); though perhaps not considered equipment, her raven companion Karrik always accompanies her.
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Player's online availability : Evenings. (EST)
Registered: Jan 25, 2016 16:56:44 GMT -8
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Post by Reuna Laurént on Apr 27, 2016 17:11:55 GMT -8
The woman who approached this stone edifice of strength with its complement of warriors looked far too serene. She was also decidedly not a warrior, carrying the air of a mage about her. She made her way toward where the recruits were gathered, eagerly awaiting a tale of valor, Reuna sat herself down in front of them and smiled. "My name is Reuna Laurént, and I've come to share a tale with you. It is not my own, but one in which I played a small part. It is the story of a brave Elf, the last of her people, destined to be queen, and how she reclaimed her home from the grip of darkness. Let me tell you the story of Queen Emahra the Valiant, and the Cleansing of Kehl-Nari...
"In ages long past, in another plane, on a world much like this one, there was a land known as Itaia. It was created by loving Gods, who gazed upon their creation in satisfaction. But they saw that it was empty, devoid of all life but that of the beasts and the plants, and so they took parts of their own minds, and created the races. First to be made were the gentle Ethinians, the children whose hearts and souls were so close to the earth; they tended the planet with the love and tenderness of their creators. Seeing that what they had made was good, the Gods crafted of the earth the Argentai Elves, proud and strong in the ways of magic; but they were a haughty, arrogant people, convinced of their own superiority, and they were cruel to the Ethinians, treating them as no better than slaves and chattel. Seeing this, the Gods were displeased, and while some wanted to strike the Argentai down for their hubris, others suggested that a force be made to temper them. And so it was that the final of the three races of Itaia was made. From the sky were the Kehl-Nari Elves wrought, just and true with blades and armor of gleaming metal. They liberated the Ethinians from the Argentai and guarded them closely, harboring the peaceful peoples in a place of safety. For many long years, they lived in an uneasy truce, engaging in small wars and various skirmishes.
"But this story is not about that time.
"This tale takes place thousands of years down the line, when the seventeenth Queen of Kehl-Nari, Talande the Wise, of the line of Untyrid, reigned over the land. Unlike most of her people, she was a mage of some power, and she had been given the gift of Prophecy, which she used to rule her people with a firm but gentle hand. She had a young daughter named Emahra, a child with hair as blue as the endless waters of the Virinea Sea, and she was a wild, rambunctious child who loved and was loved by all around her. Emahra was but a babe when her mother and father, the Queen and King, made a secret pact with the Emperor and Empress Consort of the Argentai Elves, who had a young son. When the two came of age, they would be wed, in the hopes that the royal union would join the two peoples in an ever-lasting peace. But the Emperor was unwise, and shared this knowledge with his brother, who was jealous, and coveted the Crown of Stone for himself, and he began to plot against his brother, conspiring with forces of darkness out of reach beyond the Veil.
"Emahra was but a child of ten when her mother received a vision most horrific. She saw the Empire across the sea overtaken by a tide of darkness, which spread across the waters and into the lands of the Kehl-Nari, destroying all in its wake and leaving naught but ash behind. Shaken to the core by this terrible omen, Talande gathered the Heirloom blade of her House, the Blade of Ankiri, and bundled it safely into a magically protected cloth. Knowing that time was of the essence, she roused her daughter from sleep and dressed her hurriedly, before carting her off to the royal stables in the dead of night. There she bade Emahra mount the swiftest horse, and bound the Blade to its saddle, before taking her daughter’s hands and gazing tearfully up at her bewildered and fearful Heir Apparent.
"`My sweet girl, I know you are frightened - but you must be brave. There is a great task in your future, but you cannot learn what you need to accomplish it in this place. You must ride now, Emahra. Ride, and do not look back.`
"And although it pained her deeply to leave behind her mother, her father, her people, everything she knew and loved, she wouldn’t disobey her mother. Taking the reins in hand, she spurred the swift horse from the stables and fled into the dwindling realm of night. She rode long and hard, passing into the forest at the very edges of the kingdom, all the while unaware of what was happening to those left behind. She had no way of knowing that, mere hours after she had passed safely beyond the last mountains at the edge of the realm, the hordes of darkness raged across the sea and, having already consumed the Argentai people as a whole, laid waste to the Kehl-Nari, leaving naught but bones and ash in their wake.
"For many years, Emahra roamed. She was cared for by the Elves of a distant land, for a time, and they taught her the use of the broadsword of House Untyrid. She became a powerful and charismatic leader, strong and proud, with a steadfast heart and a pure soul. I was but a wandering sorceress, then, and when I met her, Emahra had just decided upon the quest to retake her homeland and claim her crown, believing that war had sprung up with the Argentai in her absence. She was a striking figure, with her long blue hair, and the sword upon her hip which hummed with power. She promised me a welcome in her realm, a place where I could live and practice my magics in peace, and, enticed by this, I agreed to join her.
"Over the next three years, we made the trip back to Itaia, gathering a motley crew to help her in her task. There was Denor, the ranger, who joined us only after Emahra bested him in battle. There was Taela Xhos, the kind-hearted healer who came when she learned that there may be people in need of her help. And there was Ssavrin the Red, the dragonrider, who sought a place to live free of persecution and strictures, to train a new order of dragon knights. With this band, we traveled across the open lands, past the mountains, and back to Kehl-Nari. It was then that Emahra learned the truth of her peoples’ fate; the Kehl-Nari elves were no more, crushed beneath the same shadow which had brought an end to the Argentai.
"While many would have fallen to darkness in their thirst for revenge, Emahra’s heart was too pure to stray down this path. She vowed to purge the land of the evil creatures which befouled it, and although she was the last of her people, she intended to lead the land back to an age of prosperity. We had met little resistance when we first entered the realm, but the further we pressed into the empty lands, the battles grew fierce. Emahra was like a whirlwind of blue fire as she danced among the twisted monsters of that darkness, her blade shining with all the intensity of a fallen star, cleaving heads from bodies and separating limbs. Every conflict left her standing in pools of inky ichor, her chest heaving with exertion and her arms shaking from the strain.
"And yet she kept on fighting. There was a weariness about her that never went away, no matter how much rest she got. Sometimes I saw her in the deepest part of the night, sitting with the Blade drawn and her noble brow pressed to the flame crest of her House which adorned its crossguard, silently praying for guidance. Months passed in this manner, with us cleaving into the ranks of those horrid monsters day after day, but there never seemed to be an end to them. The others began to lose hope - even I sometimes doubted whether or not we would actually be victorious. But Emahra never did. Her spirit was unfailing in its determination, her hope like a beacon that lit the way through the unending waves of darkness which we faced for what felt like an eternity.
"After six months, we managed to fight our way through to what remained of the capital city. It had once been an exquisitely crafted city of white stone, from its shining streets, to the elegant lines and delicate arches that crowned its buildings. It was but a shadow of its former self, the houses vacant, the paths littered with bones that were slowly crumbling beneath the passage of time. It was like walking through a world forgotten by life itself. Emahra led us to the castle, but we were forced to remain outside its doors; there was a powerful enchantment cast across the whole structure that barred us from entering, allowing no one but the rightful ruler to enter its hallowed halls.
"She was gone for two days, leaving us to fight on our own. Even years later, after the battle had been won and Kehl-Nari was a land of peace and plenty, she refused to tell anyone - not myself, not Denor who became her husband, not her daughter - what happened within that place. All she ever told us was that she ascended to the highest room of the tallest tower, and that there, she found the means for Kehl-Nari’s salvation. It was an ancient artifact, created by Queen Saalira the Guiding Star, the First Queen of Kehl-Nari, called the Flame of Saalira, and it housed a portion of the spirit of every Queen of Kehl-Nari. When Emahra passed the trial that protected this Flame, she was possessed of all the knowledge and power of these past Queens.
"The woman who had become my friend was there in body only when she returned from that tower. There was an ancient wisdom about her, and a power so deep and terrible that it filled us all with an awestruck fear. When she spoke, it was with the voices of those who had come before, a melange of different tones that was constantly changing. She bade us come with her for one last stand, one last attempt to purge the lands of this evil and free what remained of Kehl-Nari from darkness. We could do nothing but follow. We were pledged to her, to this woman who would be our Queen.
"We followed her to the vast plain outside of the city, and there we waited. It didn’t take long for the entire horde to find us, and within hours, we were completely surrounded. There was nothing but a writhing blackness around us, as far as the eye could see and beyond. It even painted the sky in shadows, shrouding the earth in a perpetual gloom that seemed to oppress the very soul. Except for Emahra. She shone with the light of the heavens itself, that great and awful power seeming to burst from within her. The creatures snapped and snarled at us, offended by her luminance, and then it happened. They struck, all as one body.
"It was all we could do just to keep ourselves alive. Fighting with our backs against each other, we battled for what felt like years. It couldn’t have been more than a few hours, though. Ssavrin and his dragon were the first to fall, and Lady Taela soon after, leaving only Emahra, Denor, and myself. But there was no time to mourn their loss. Our doom seemed certain when through the throng there came an earth-shaking voice, calling out its challenge to the Elven warrior.
"`You who bear the light of ages, come forth and face me! I am Rrothlar the Nightbringer, and I will consume you!`
"The ground quaked beneath us with the force of this beast’s steps as it strode forward from the darkness. Never before had I seen such a terrible creature. It loomed over us, as tall as the castle’s highest tower, and had the shape of a man, but it was twisted. An arm protruded from its back, and tendrils of night spun from its shadowed body, snapping and twisting in a way that seemed to designed to drive the mind toward madness. In each of its clawed hands, it grasped a sword, the blade of which seemed to try and suck in the light that poured from Emahra. Denor and I were terrified, able to do little more than try and hold off the army. But Emahra was unafraid. She leaped forward to confront this unholy creature, her sword singing with the voices of countless souls as she called in her many tones.
"`I am Emahra Untyrid, last of my House, last of my people, and you will fall this day, creature of darkness! No longer will you cast your blight across my lands! This I decree as Queen of Kehl-Nari!`
"The power which had seemed contained within her before now burst from Emahra with all the force of an exploding star. With every swing of her sword, the hordes fell, waves of energy streaming from the blade and ripping into them. Its power was so great that it left nothing behind, not limbs, not bone, not ash; it simply wiped them from existence with great blazing sweeps of light. Countless numbers were felled before her, and Rrothlar seemed to grow more and more enraged with every dark creature that met its end. Finally, he rushed upon her, and the battle truly began.
"For all his being countless times bigger than her, the light that shone from within Emahra was unfailing, keeping the hulking beast at bay. Its tentacles burned and sizzled every time they tried to attack, and her sword always rose to catch his, deflecting blades the size of trees with all the effort of batting away a fly. The army stopped to watch as its leader fought ours, great arcing bolts of lightning crackling through the air every time glowing steel met light-sucking swords. The planet itself seemed to shudder beneath this clash of godly power, and groaned as it was rent apart, leaving gaping chasms scattered across the plains and shearing through the great mountains.
"They fought all through the night, leaving craters in the ground, as we struggled to hold off the remnants of the army which never seemed to end. At last, the impenetrable pall of twilight which had fallen across the land was pierced by a single flicker of light from the east. The sun was rising, shafts of brilliance piercing through the cloak of death and landing upon Emahra. As Rrothlar raised his trio of swords with a mighty roar and sought to cleave Emahra into pieces, she launched herself at him with a cry that shook the very skies. Her Blade lit with the power of innumerable suns bound into solid form, its glow blinding us even as we hid our faces.
"There was a sound like the sundering of the world itself, and a wind so strong that it flattened us to the ground. And then, there was silence. When at last we raised our faces from the grass, it was to the sight of an unblemished spring morning. The army of darkness was gone, destroyed in a vortex of power so great, it had cleansed the land. Rrothlar was no more, even his great swords were cast into some uncharted abyss between time and space. All that remained was Emahra, standing victorious in the glow of the newly-risen sun. Her sword blazed with the light of purity, and her eyes were filled with the look of a woman who has fulfilled her destiny.
"That was the day that Queen Emahra the Valiant, Last Daughter of the House of Untyrid, Scion of the Kehl-Nari people, reclaimed her land from the clutches of evil. Her story doesn’t end there, but then, does one war truly encompass an entire life? I think not. Take from this story what you will. My telling is at an end."
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Rohak of the Dittany
Established
Roleplay posts: 21
Age: 37
Physical Description: 6'3, big beefy man with dark skin and big muscles
Registered: Apr 11, 2016 18:09:10 GMT -8
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Post by Rohak of the Dittany on Apr 27, 2016 17:47:32 GMT -8
Rohak slammed his fists together. "Hah, I get it. Teaching them the hardships of war! Well, I'm not gonna let them upstage me. If they don't get to eat, neither will I!" Rohak ignored the fact that his stomach was suddenly growling loudly, with a smile no less. "Alright!" He patted Kamoa of the Chataugau. "Horses we know something about. Oh, by the way, I heard some lecturers from Gauldin are supposed to be arriving today. We'll have to schedule some time for them!" He didn't know much about Reuna Laurént, but apparently she knew a little something about wars and melee fighters... |
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Post by Land Tillers' State on Apr 27, 2016 17:59:22 GMT -8
(Sorry about the wonky timing)
Reuna's story was very well received. She had an astonishing flare for the dramatic. The perseverance of Emahra was astonishing. Everyone enjoyed the descriptions of the massive creature and even the lore about the different factions of elves. In many ways the story paralleled some of the events of the Land-Tiller's Expanse. Lynx of the Celadine and her allies fought to take the land back from the necromancers in much the same way Emahra took her land back from the darkness. Anyone who was familiar with the Land-Tiller's history would know this.
Rohak himself smirked at Reuna when he got the chance to meet her face to face. "Thank you for coming, Reuna. Maybe someday the Brotherhood can produce warriors like Emahra. When I was little people made fun of me for wanting to be a hero with a broadsword. It's good to know there are people willing to confront evil head on. That includes you." He extended his oversized hand out to Reuna in friendship.
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Reuna Laurént
Dedicated
Roleplay posts: 361
Age: 51
Physical Description: Reuna is a striking study in contrasts. She is just slightly above female average, height-wise, standing at 5'8", and is slender, with a fragile bone structure that makes her look weak; this is, of course, balanced out by her strength and skill in magic. Her hair is long, descending to her waist, and is purely black, which is a sharp opposition to her pale-skinned features. Her eyes are the color of amethyst, dark and intense, and are usually the only method from which one can derive her mood, as she very rarely displays her emotions via facial expressions. She appears young, in her mid-thirties, although if one looks closely enough, they can see the beginnings of fine lines around her eyes and mouth. Although few have ever seen them, due to her tendency to keep herself fully covered from neck to toes, she has whip-mark scars covering most of her back, and scars from long periods spent in manacles around both of her wrists, remnants from her days as a slave.
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Clothes and Equipment: Generally, Reuna wears one of five sets of identical robes, with high collars and long slightly-loose sleeves, in black, dark grey, purple, dark green, and dark blue. Commonly-carried equipment consists of her personal grimoire, a traveling writing kit (with ink well, quills, and writing desk), and a belt with pouches that contain various items (both magical and non); though perhaps not considered equipment, her raven companion Karrik always accompanies her.
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Player's online availability : Evenings. (EST)
Registered: Jan 25, 2016 16:56:44 GMT -8
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Post by Reuna Laurént on Apr 27, 2016 18:20:23 GMT -8
It pleased her to see that the story was liked. Rising from her seat when she was done speaking, the sorceress turned to go find her husband, and was met by one of the warriors of this land. Reuna gazed up at him thoughtfully as he spoke, and a smile appeared on her face. "Emahra was a very dear friend of mine. That blade of hers was almost bigger than she was, but she never once faltered when it was in her hands. She had a strength of spirit I have seen in few, but I hope that my tale has inspired these people to always do what is right, and never back down, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds." Taking Rohak's hand, she shook it firmly. Emahra would've liked him, she believed.
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Post by Knights of the Harvest on May 6, 2016 13:34:19 GMT -8
The Knight-Brothers had allowed Reuna to recite her grand tale to the recruits. Indeed, many tales were told by the Brothers at their many gatherings and feasts, to not only improve morale, but to inspire them in heroic ventures. The Knight-Brothers nodded in acceptance of Reuna's tale.
A bit later, once the recruits had finished their wrestling, they were given some bread and water - this time without trickery. They had earned a nice meal. But not long after they were rounded up and taken to the stables, where many horses of all colors awaited them. "No need to train any of you on horseback-riding," one of the Knights announced. "But we will show you how to equip your steeds with the heavy armor used by the Brotherhood, and then show you how to follow through with charges against the enemy."
The recruits would be instructed on the various pieces of armor, how to apply it to their horses, and were also given some shields, lances, and swords once upon the horse's back. The Knight's would lead them outside of the castle, and into the great plains surrounding Havburg. They would practice performing charges, staying together, and maneuvering as a cohesive group. This was all very important to learn, as a charge of heavy cavalry was most devastating on the battlefield and could turn the tide of any battle...
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Rohak of the Dittany
Established
Roleplay posts: 21
Age: 37
Physical Description: 6'3, big beefy man with dark skin and big muscles
Registered: Apr 11, 2016 18:09:10 GMT -8
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Post by Rohak of the Dittany on Aug 14, 2016 12:54:54 GMT -8
"Hiyah!"
Rohak was swelling with pride.
*clang clang clang*
He and his students were sparring in the middle of the courtyard. The recruits' steps were lively, their swordplay fast as lightning, and their enthusiasm child-like. The Knights of the Harvest had acquitted themselves greatly in the battle of Aaedan. Their fame had spread throughout the Expanse. And so now they were receiving new applications every day.
The new recruits were starting to sweat in their training armor. It had been a long day and the sun was setting. "Alright we're done. You know where the food court is. Remember, watering begins at dawn. Dismissed!" As the recruits breathed sighs of relief and went over that day's lessons, Rohak decided to take a break of his own.
He left the confines of the courtyard and went for a walk. Further away from the main fields were little plots of shaded land, mostly dedicated to medicinal herbs. He was alone. He kneeled down to examine the little plants. He thought of his mother and his friends in the Dittany Clan.
"It's just not the life for me." He flicked one of the little leaves and stood up. He gazed at the sunset and gripped his sword. He turned back towards the imposing stone castle.
"This, this is my garden." He grinned and started to walk back.
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The Dark Spirit
Established
Roleplay posts: 10
Age: Eternal
Physical Description: A formless mass of darkness, that can when occasion calls manifest two crimson eyes. As it grows in power it's form will become more distinct.
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Registered: Jul 25, 2016 17:37:16 GMT -8
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Post by The Dark Spirit on Sept 12, 2016 19:03:26 GMT -8
Within the forest near the chapter house, The Dark Spirit had found a suitable host. A bear injured in a hunt and nursing its wounds. It's spirit weakened by pain and resentment against humanity. The malevolent force suffused the bear. Nursing it's anger and rage with dark milk. The Dark Spirit remembers its previous defeat. This time, it will be victorious. This time, it creates a machine of war to strike at the cursed summoners. As Rohak makes his way back to the chapter house he'd feel a tremble in the ground. A sickness in the air. A silence in the forest. Then it appears on the horizon. A massive beast covered in shadows, eyes glowing red, runes in a foul ancient tongue on it's chest. It has come to the chapter house to find him. It has come to kill him. It roars out its hatred and every animal within a mile flees. For it is hate, pure and unyielding hate. A hate with no reason, no purpose other than destruction. The Dark Spirit has come for Rohak and this time it will not be denied. It roars and the world trembles.  |
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Rohak of the Dittany
Established
Roleplay posts: 21
Age: 37
Physical Description: 6'3, big beefy man with dark skin and big muscles
Registered: Apr 11, 2016 18:09:10 GMT -8
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Post by Rohak of the Dittany on Sept 12, 2016 19:56:32 GMT -8
Rohak barely had time to take a few steps when he suddenly felt faint. "What the... what is this? Did I train too hard today? What have I been eating? No... this is... this-"
Suddenly Rohak swings around and in a single motion draws his greatsword. He grips it with white knuckles, but then quickly breathes deep to steady himself. What sort of horrific presence could have him so unnerved?!
A warning bell rings out from the Knights Chapter House, but his recruits can't possibly stop such a mighty creature in time. He faces the foul beast with a cold sweat. It's unlike anything he'd ever seen! Rohak bravely faces the creature, ready to make some sort of motion in response to the creature's attack, even though realistically he doesn't stand a chance.
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The Dark Spirit
Established
Roleplay posts: 10
Age: Eternal
Physical Description: A formless mass of darkness, that can when occasion calls manifest two crimson eyes. As it grows in power it's form will become more distinct.
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Registered: Jul 25, 2016 17:37:16 GMT -8
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Post by The Dark Spirit on Sept 15, 2016 17:32:09 GMT -8
Another bellowing roar and then the monster charges. Great maw gapping teeth the size of swords on display. Ready to rend, tear, and consume Rohak. The Dark Spirit's voice sounds in the man's head. It is an unwelcome presence filled with hatred and disgust. A horrible desire to see all before it destroy.
"You will die summoner. I will not be stopped again. I will consume this world and everything in it. All that lives is my enemy and I will give no quarter."
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Rohak of the Dittany
Established
Roleplay posts: 21
Age: 37
Physical Description: 6'3, big beefy man with dark skin and big muscles
Registered: Apr 11, 2016 18:09:10 GMT -8
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Post by Rohak of the Dittany on Sept 15, 2016 17:47:07 GMT -8
"Summoner... what the? Grr! I'll show you!" Rohak decides he's not going to take this lying down. He'd be damned if he didn't at least put a scratch in the monstrosity before he died.
Rohak starts to sprint towards the tree line. His path tries to arc around the beast's trajectory. He thinks if he can outflank the creature, he can escape into the forest, drawing it away from the chapter house and giving him trees for cover. Despite his armor and heavy clothes his large frame moves surprisingly fast.
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Talis Ragingstorm
Dedicated
Roleplay posts: 128
Age: 112
Physical Description: Talis is roughly average height for an elf standing at just over five foot seven. He has a slim build, with lightly toned muscles thanks to years running in the forest. His hair is short and white as snow, his eyes a bright amber, and his features sharp and angular.
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Clothes and Equipment: Summoner gi, ritual knife.
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Registered: Apr 14, 2016 21:26:52 GMT -8
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Post by Talis Ragingstorm on Sept 16, 2016 15:01:04 GMT -8
Talis accompanied by Iania Whisperwind , Ravanys Tranir , and Lady Cassandra Winter came close the chapter house. Just like before the elder spirit had led him to a general area, but now the exact location eludes him. Or it would have if he couldn't see a giant evil bear attacking a lone warrior. Which even if the man wasn't the summoner, he could tell the bear was possessed by The Dark Spirit. Which meant he had to help. But he was suddenly worried. The spirit was telling him this bear would be too much from him alone and Cassandra wasn't able to summon her elder spirit. Still, he had to try even as the spirit warned him this may be a mistake. "We have to help him! Cassandra! You have to summon your elder spirit! Focus on that and I will try and keep the bear busy!" With that Talis takes off towards the man and bear. The lightning dragon appearing around him as he sprints. Unfamiliar worry bubbling in his heart as he runs. He can't shake the feeling that something bad was going to happen. |
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Iania Whisperwind
Dedicated
Roleplay posts: 133
Age: Roughly 150 years.
Physical Description: Tall, with a lithe and lightly muscular build, Iania has the delicate features and pointed ears attributable to all Elvenkind. She has green hair which falls to mid-thigh and hazel eyes that tend to vary between shades of brown and green. She has a few tattoos scattered across her body.
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Clothes and Equipment: Typically, Iania wears plain brown leathers. When out patrolling, she wears armor (cuirass, fauld, and tassets) made of an odd, flexible, silvery wood that is impenetrable and impervious to magical effects, along with leather bracers and greaves. This is often accompanied by a brown cloak made to blend in with bark and leaves. Around her waist she wears a belt on which rests a quiver of arrows, and she carries an enchanted longbow, as well as a blowgun and a variety of darts with different poisons applied to their tips.
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Player's online availability : Variable; usually afternoons and evenings. (PST)
Registered: Apr 14, 2016 11:45:58 GMT -8
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Post by Iania Whisperwind on Sept 16, 2016 15:13:36 GMT -8
"Talis, be careful!" Iania was already freeing up her bow and grabbing an arrow out of the quiver at her hip. She was also reaching out to the trees around them. The trees of the Expanse recognized one of the Elves who had guarded the nation for so long, even if in secret, and responded, letting their energies pour into her. But the process would still take some time.
(Charge 1)
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Lady Cassandra Winter
Dedicated
Roleplay posts: 156
Age: 20
Physical Description: Cassandra Winter is a gorgeous scion of House Winter, having inherited the best possible genes from her parents. She has long black hair that ends about midway between her shoulders and her narrow waste. Stunning light blue eyes gaze out from underneath long, well-cared for eyelashes. She has a well-endowed chest, the perfect size for her frame, not too large and not too small. The rest of her curves match that description as well, the best description being "perfectly proportioned."
Clothes and Equipment: She is almost always wearing a dress of some sort, usually one that befits the activity she is doing or the event she is attending, accompanied by matching bracelets, rings, whatever fits the occasio With a few exceptions, she is always wearing a silver necklacethat has a small pendant with her family's crest on it, a gift from her mother when she was very young.
Registered: Jun 30, 2016 10:22:19 GMT -8
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Post by Lady Cassandra Winter on Sept 18, 2016 8:41:23 GMT -8
"I...what? What the...is that, no."
The terror in her eyes, in her voice, was entirely obvious to everyone in the area. Her hands trembled as she struggled to summon even a lesser elemental, but after a moment or two one of the more powerful lesser elementals stood next to her. Ravanys's presence calmed her, though, and she took a deep breath, doing her damnedest to ignore the trembling. She remembered that this beast possessed one of her people, and attacked her on her land. How dare it show its face again? She concentrated with all her might to summon the Elder Spirit, to feel the necessary connection.
Flames shot up all around her, her lesser elemental winked out of existence, and...nothing happened. No Elder Spirit and no connection. Just a lot of fire.
"DAMMIT! WHAT THE HELL DOES IT TAKE TO DO THIS!?"
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