The Knight, the Sword and the Sentinel

Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 12:31 pm

General Statement

Glad to see so many of the older people that made SoS possible have come back. I welcome them and of course their loyalty and continued creation of the timeline lore. This RP is a little bit different than what most people may expect. We accept anyone so don't be discouraged if it seems imposing. It really isn't and although there is a lot of depth to the lore, you really only need to know a few keen basics to get involved. The rest is simply for aesthetics. I want people to keep in mind that what we are doing here is writing a story. And although I love the competitive aspect of the timeline when it becomes a destructive element to the RP itself, it needs to cease. I like the competitive aspect because those are "real" challenges characters have to answer to. And that causes people to reply in a more authentic manner. I'd like to thank everyone who contributed in creating and maintaining this universe, our unique take on the Elder Scrolls world and look forward to the writing that is to come.


Brief Recap/Overview and What you will be doing

http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j76/Titus-lord/Hammerfell-Imortalblood-draft-1.jpg (Red and gold - the Yokudan Empire, grey - independent, blue - Knights of the Nine and Forebear city-states)

The dawn of the Fourth Era was a tumultuous period for the ailing Septim Empire. The Altmer of Summerset, ever contemptuous of Men, saw their chance and took it, winning back their freedom and then some from the Empire; the treaty of Anvil was the most humiliating peace negotiated by the Imperial City since well before the times of Tiber Septim. But the war would strip the Empire of more than just the wood-rich Valenwood or its Summerset ports - confidence in the Empire and fear of its Legions were the true casualties. That quickly became apparent when the Raga of Hammerfell, always yearning for freedom, rose up in arms. And though the Ruby Ranks smashed the rebellion in the south, their march would soon come to a halt at the Roaring Walls of Sentinel.

It has now been more than a year since the walls of Sentinel spewed forth iron and fire and countless men laid down for their final rest in the vast dunes of the Alik'r. Outnumbered and outmatched, their High King assassinated, the rebels' defeat seemed certain, yet the Ra Gada endured and not only that - they would go on to prosper, the kingdom of Sentinel attaining power beyond the dreams of any past High King. But Haroun do Ashir Hel Ansei has much to worry about still, for though he married Roxanna Barca, sister to Khan Bomilkar Barca, in hopes of ending the Forebear-Crown feud, the Raga are still a people divided.

Nowhere is this more evident than in the south, where the city-states of Taneth, Roseguard and Rihad have banded together in hopes of outweighing the newly formed Yokudan Empire. Though the ruler of Rihad is supposedly the leader of this coalition, the real power has for long rested in the hands of the Knights of the Nine, who cling on to their final fortresses in Hammerfell in the name of the Nine Divines and the Empire, hoping to fulfil the task given unto them by the High Priest of Talos and drive the heathens into the sea from which they came.

As more and more Forebear nomad tribes look upon the Barcas as traitors to their kin at Rihad's behest, tensions escalate; soon, Hammerfell might again be engulfed in war.


The Yokudan Empire: It is 4E4, sixteen months after the War of the Last Wolves and the Ra Gada Empire is in a state of expansion and growth. New concepts, ideas, offices and bodies have been created within the last year. Soldiers have been gone on constant campaign and a new national identity has been formed, Ra Gada patriotism and a new found respect for the old customs and traditions grow fervent, while many seek power, riches, and fame by using the current growth of the Empire for their own means. While others amongst both political parties view the Empire as a threat to their own power, rather than a national and united body of Ra Gada which could present hope to the future of their people. With the Knights of the Nine influencing Ra Gada politics in the East, and Anvils meddeling in Hammerfellian affairs, the city of Sentinel seems to be on the brink of open war.

Now is the time for heroes, whether it be through political means, strength of arms, or the through means of which most least expect. The men/women of action will shape the future of Hammerfell and that of Tamriel.


https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KySAMhE77haL-pe2RK8LJjne4fUNQSBSa3iGLvr4HbE/edit?hl=en&authkey=CL71_s4F# Born out of the strife of the Oblivion Crisis and the return of Umaril the Unfeathered, the once humble order has now grown considerably in size and influence. A reminder of the power Cyrodiil once wielded and the greatest hope of reclaiming Hammerfell and putting down the upstart Yokudan Empire, the Knights of the Nine struck a chord with many influential nobles of the Heartland. The blessing of the High Priest of Talos and the call to avenge the humiliation of the Ruby Ranks and the ignoble assassination of Chancellor Ocato only further swelled their ranks - many landless nobles, religious fanatics, patriots and soldiers misplaced by the War of the Wolves flock under the banner of Pelinal Whitestrake. Their flags hoisted over the walls of the rich Forebear cities of the southern coast and with the rulers of these cities firmly under their influence, this army of idealists and opportunists is prepared to strike out and throw the Yokudan Empire into the sea from which it came.



So what will you be doing? The two main factions are (use the map) as you can see are the Yoku Empire in the west centered in Sentinel which lead by Hauron wish to stamp out Imperial rule in Hammerfell and unite the country while in the east a loose confederation of Forebear cities are united under the banner of the Knight of the Nine sent on Crusade and blessed by the High priest of Talos. They are supported in patronage by Anvil who seeks to maintain a buffer state between itself and Sentinel. You can decide to support one side or another or anything in between. Although there will be a large military aspect in the RP that will not be the only one. The important thing is to maintain interaction.

Concerning the number of troops, right now I will leave that be very loose but as a base Sentinel will have around 60,000 and the Forebear cities under the KOTN will have around 40,000. This is subject to change.

Rules

1. http://www.gamesas.com/index.php?/topic/810277-gds-abraisive-guide-to-battle-rps/. It's good information and if you have questions about the military aspect of what would go where. For information about the lore specific to the Timeline, check out the http://theimmortalblood.blogspot.com/.

2. Use good grammar and spelling. Type your post up in Word if you don't think you can do it. Everyone makes mistakes so I don't have anything against people who aren't good at the language. English isn't my first language either, but not using precautions such as Word shows you really don't care. Make your posts lengthy and descriptive. Even if it is just a boring conversation, describe, describe, describe!

3. Do NOT be all knowing. It's just stupid when you have a guy in the RP that just seems to be able to guess everything. RP your character unknowing of something if he really doesn't know even if it means his/her death.

4. Familiarize yourself with the lore of the region (just enough to post adequately)

5. Try not to dwell too much on game mechanics

6. Keep in mind the ethnic/racial composition of your armies and factions. For instance, Forebears don't really like Crowns and vice versa, Nomads and City dwellers have different customs and traditions that very well could conflict and if your not careful a transgression could end in your life.

7. Character sheets should be posted in the Timeline discussion thread after approval from faction leaders, Immortal Blood (Knights) and Storyteller (Ra'Gada)

Recent Events

Week 1
-A delegation from the Yokudan Empire arrives at Rihad headed by High King Haroun himself. Talks of peace are why the meeting occurs in the first place, but the belligerence of Knight Commander Stanet Terentius and the short temper of Khan Bomilkar Barca make it a doomed affair. The Knights and the Yokudans part ways with war clearly on the horrizon, bloodshed only narrowly avoided.
-Crixus Abu Nakute, a famous author, elects to stay in Rihad to represent the Yokudan Empire. He approaches Paralictor Lysandra, seeking to get his hands on a man from his past who had been conscripted into the Rihadese militia. In exchange for this, Crixus provides some information about Yokudan military movements.
-High King Haroun leaves Rihad in haste and soon returns to Sentinel, where the Th-As-Sad, the festival to honour the death of High King Thassad III, is beginning. In his palace he finds not only his wife, daughter and all but one of the Yokedas of Hammerfell, but also an Anticlerian delegation and Draken Decumus Vladmirius, a diplomat - and perhaps something more - from Cyrodiil.
-Knight Commander Terentius hosts a meeting for the various mercenaries of the region, intending to hire more forces for the upcomming war.
-The mysterious disappearance of increasing quantities of people along the south-western shore of Hammerfell attracts government attention and the Yokudans hire mercenaries to investigate.
-A skirmish is fought between the forces of the Knights of the Nine, led by Knight Commander Tarsius Varo, and disguised Barca nomads, led by Hasturbal. After some fighting, the nomads disengage and retreat.
-In Rihad, a company of adventurers and misfits led by an ex-Her Hand gathers with the intention to hunt down Serosi at the behest of a Daedric Prince.
-The Knights of the Nine begin to fortify the road to Taneth in preparation for the inevitable war.
-Haroun calls a war meeting in Sentinel, where the growing rift in the Ayuub tribe is made clear to the influentials of the Yokudan Empire and the initial strategy for the war is laid out.


Dramatis Personae

Immortal Blood

Serosi/Andrethi: A former Morag Tong assassin. After leaving Morrowind in search of Azura's Star on behalf of the Khojmari he became involved in the Siege of Sentinel. During the battle of Lainlyn he ended up losing his memory but was rescued by Queen Elysana's sorceress. After a few months time in High Rock he left due to the Queen's paranoia deciding it would be safer if he hid amongst the Korten mountains.

Ignatius: A Battlemage of sorts which focuses on hunting monsters, the undead, necromancers, the arcane criminal and the occasional bounty. Ignatius is one of the few remaining of his group of morally ambigious professionals for hire. They are often used by the church who turn a blind eye to their methods of investigation.

Ai Direnni: Wise, lovely, and with a hidden vendetta. She left High Rock in recent years fleeing the madness that is Elysana by offering her skills for hire to the Forebear cities resisting the advances of the newly formed Yoku Empire.

Lucretia Alexandrina Ducale: Born of Leyawiin nobility, she fled her home when she was young refusing to be used in the political scheming of her father. Instead she found herself finding glory and fortune in the War of Summerset where she personally granted safe passage to the retreationg legions through her tactical stalling of the Altmer forces. She now leads a mercenary company composed of former Legionnaires and other soldiers.

Venetia Leone: Before joining the Knights of the Nine she was a weapons instructor for the Fighter's Guild. With the rebirth of the order however she found herself at an oppertunity to show case her talents amongst the elite of the elite. She now leads her own cavalry wing under the direct command of the Grandmaster.

Aryon Telvanni: After he acted as advisor for King Hauron of Sentinel, he disapeared searching the Dwemer ruins of Hammerfell and has not been seen since.


WoolyMammoth

Arethan Andas: The last remaining former Her-Hand in Tamriel. He is a Dunmer. Hunted by the Morag Tong, he served Helseth through the Siege of Sentinel and High Rock, only to find friendship with the Nords of Markarth Side. After losing his best friend, Alval, in battle in High Rock, Arethan has made an effort to run, making his way into south Hammerfell. Because Serosi altered Azura's Star, Arethan has made a deal with Vaermina (who owes a debt to Azura), that if he makes Serosi's life a nightmare, he will receive the Skull of Corruption, which would allow him to clone himself and kill his cloned form, making him appear dead and allowing him to return to his homeland.

Servyn Velothi: Arethan's friend who has chosen to aid him on his journey. He is also Dunmer.

Ruhk Ahkbar: Cousin of King Haroun, he acts as one of the governor's of Stros M'kai and a leader of their military forces. He is a veteran of the War of the Wolves, despite being only 20 years old.

Amaru Shakur: Ruhk's Ansei guardian and adviser. He acts as Ruhk's best friend, but also protects and counsels him. While he does rarely show his face on the battlefield, he is a dangerous force when he does so.

Sobotai Sahara: Ruhk's second in command. Unlike the honest and honorable Ruhk, Sobotai seems to be much more unorthodox and dirty.

Kurush Rizar: Son of Hasturbal Rizar, he is the current blood-heir to the entire Barca tribe, and would rival Xerxes as such if Bomilkar does not have children. He is a young and skilled warrior.

Alkaran Korandil: Leader of the Altmeri mercenaries under the command of Sentinel. He is a veteran of the Aldmeri Reunification war, as well as the War of the Wolves. He is known for his particular hatred of humans, notably Imperials.


aSaPp!5@

Rithe-

Was once a Morag Tong assassin but now serves Mephala as her personal instrument of destruction due to the pact he made with her to escape the Daedric invasion of Vvardenfell. He has been tasked with aiding the Dunmer Arethan in his hunt for Serosi.

Athanden-

Has been a mercenary all his life and now leads one of the strongest mercenary corps in Northeastern Tamriel, has decided to get in on the action and large payroll that comes with the conflict in Hammerfell.

Cyrus Tarahk-

A forebear loyal to the Crowns, Cyrus is a very capable warrior and one of the military leaders of Stros M'Kai. He is personal friends with Ruhk Ahkbar and one of his trusted advisors.

Rayden-

The old apprentice to Rithe, Rayden had the potential to be one of the Morag Tong's best assassins however his headstrong attitude and sadistic nature ruined that. Now he is a rogue assassin attempting to hunt down the only thing he has left close to family, his old master. His search has led him into Hammerfell.


BladeMaster07

Belisarius Baenius: One of the Imperial twin Baenius brothers with a mean streak. Sold his parents land to gather money to go to war as an independent contractor and founded the Illegitimate Nobles with his twin. Is now a mercenary leader with high ambitions and an eye to the wars in Hammerfell that will gain those ambitions.

Justin Baenius: One of the Imperial twin Baenius brothers who acts as a calming force to his twin. The one who originally got the idea to sell their inherited property to form the Illegitimate Nobles but not the one who has the high ambitions. Also practices the arcane, to his twins slight disappointment.

Praxedes Duoar: A figurative right hand man, as a strong willed woman to the twins. A fellow noble and life long family friend of the two, who shared their ambitions and also owned her parents land for several years before the twins sold their inheritance. Packs a strong punch in a little frame and is highly skilled in information gathering and stealth missions, is is defiantly a person who enjoys life in all ways.

Vhosek: An older Ra'Gada who joined up with the twins along with his small group of fighters despite none of them being of noble birth but of high riches. A skilled warrior with an intimidating appearance with his tattooed head shaven clean. He is a master of many weapons but is undeniably wild when the looting of an enemy begins and it has often led to trouble when he runs to far ahead of his fellows to catch the feeling enemy. He fights honorably but to lose is to face a savage victor.

Dalvus Llenim: A strong wizard who is somewhat of a pushover to only his friends. He brought the twins a host of mages (290 remain of the original 300) and has gained the trust of the twins despite only joining six months ago when the twins had first entered Hammerfell. An undeniable master of Conjuring daedra and fooling the mind (among the other powers of Illusion) who is deadly in battle.

Jo'Khart: Diminutive Dagi species of Khajiit who specializes in many fields of magick, especially Destruction and Illusion, to combine with high agility as a formidable war-mage. Highly intelligent and formal, and highly experimental with his magick as well.

Arnand Ashford: Male noble-born Breton from the eastern Reach. Lived orphaned on the road after parents death and became friends with Jo'Khart. Owns a magickal, sentient gauntlet that he found on a dead wizard and is strapped on him until death but allows him to throw magickal attacks back at its caster.


Person from Anticlere

Khan Baibars Ayuub - Khan of the Ayuub tribe, the second largest nomad tribe of Hammerfell, and one of the Yokeda of the Yokudan Empire, Baibars is a bit of an eccentric as far as his tribe is concerned, being more open to 'city-dwellers' than any of his people. His lack of action and in fact encouragement of the several Ayuub families who have chosen to settle since he became Yokeda has led to segregation within the tribe.

Shirkuh Ayuub - Chief Warlord of the tribe and Baibars' younger brother, Shirkuh is far less acceptant of outsiders and has taken it upon himself to lead and represent those who disagree with the khan's policies.

Lysandra Mara - Born into a poor Nibenese family, Lysandra was given away to the clergy of Mara to raise. She failed to find her place there, however, serving in the Legion - where she was drilled as a battlemage - and later, shortly after the defeat of Umaril the Unfeathered, joining the ranks of the Knights of the Nine. She has since risen to be a rather influential member of the order, courtesy of her upbringing, the skills brought over from the Imperial Legion and a certain superficial charm.

Marius Lepidus - The sole male heir of a minor Colovian noble family and once a centurion and battlemage in the Imperial Legion, Marius gave up on fighting for the Empire after the War of the Wolves, believing it to be dead and instead choosing to begin a career as a mercenary in the very land he fought against.

Aman Avidius - Cousin of the infamous corrupt Imperial Watch officer, Audens Avidius, Aman is a Colovian Knight of the Nine, hailing from Skingrad, who was noticed by Paralictor Lysandra; he is currently helping her with the more underhand side of her mission in Hammerfell.

Wilfred and Adria du Lombard - The Grand Marshall of Anticlere and his wife, this quite happily married couple is far from an unusual sight in the court of Sentinel, having both visited numerous times on their own or with business, alone or with Manfred Flyte. However, though Wilfred has visited numerous times before with diplomatic missions and Adria - often for her own enjoyment (due to her fondness for Ra'Gada culture that seems so exotic to Bretons), the fact that they are, for the meantime, permanent residents of the city of Sentinel may seem slightly unusual, given that the Grand Marshall is a very busy position. Officially, Wilfred is a diplomatic envoy of Anticlere, however in truth he is here to provide a vital, trusted link between his home city and the High King, along with helping however he can.


Squidmasher

Swims-in-Shadows: An Argonian scout who served in Helseth’s army during the siege of Sentinel who has since deserted and become a bandit. He delights in the pain, suffering, and death of others and possesses a magical glass gauntlet capable of causing damaging vibrations that can kill people and collapse structures.

Stanet Terentius- Sir Terentius is a Knight Commander in charge of the order’s forces at Rihad. He is a member of the disgraced Terentius family that rules Bravil, the city whose defenses he led during the Oblivion Crisis.


Storyteller

Haroun Do Ashir Hel Ansei, The Elden Yokeda, Saladin, The HoonDing- The Elden Yokeda of the Yokudan Empire, Haroun is the prodigious warrior and leader who heads the legendary dreadnaught sweeping Hammerfell and the Iliac bay. He is renowned for his Kingly appetites in all things, and made far more legendary for having manifested into the HoonDing more than once.

Grim Hage- Minister of Science, Grim Hage is from the prestigious family that invented Sentinel's black powder and cannon weaponry, to this day he serves the Elden Yokeda faithfully, by creating new weapons of war. His claim to fame and current legacy was the Thundershot, used during the Siege of Sentinel.

Azrael- The youngest and most skilled of the Invincible Four, four legendary Ansei siblings who made a name for themselves in the War of the Last Wolves. Currently serving as the head of Queen Roxanna's bodyguard, the Tervola.

Mansel- Head of the Shagun, secret police in service to the King. Has served him faithfully, even when the young King was a Prince.

Lord Frandar- Haroun's Godfather and beloved friend to the late King Thassad III, currently a Minister of War.

Andre Montblanc- Emmisary, Agent of the Shagun, and a retired adventurer. Montblanc is a Forebear who seeks to bring peace to his homeland.


Tidus Maximus

Bomilkar Barca - Khan of the Barca tribe, a Yokeda in the Yokudan Empire, Regent of the Forebearers and brother-in-law to the High King, Bomilkar is a man of influence and power. He served admirably and fought ferociously in the Last War of the Wolves, helping turn the tide of the war in the High Kings favor. Hot tempered, obsesed with personal honor and the ways of his people Bomilkar can be a great ally or a horrible enemy.

Roxanna Sheria do Ashir - The beautiful and politically tactful Queen of Sentinel and Empress to the Yokudan Empire. Her husband is Haroun do Ashir, the Elden Yokeda, together they enjoy a one year old daughter, Andromeda Ashir who at the moment is the only heir to her fathers growing Kingdom.

Hanno Marstaf Tavaro - Ill-Khan of the Barca, Hanno is Bomilkars closest advisor and friend. A military genius and brave warrior, Hanno is often at the front of the battle and the mastermind behind its execution.

Hasturbal Umas Rizar - Brother-in-Law to Bomilkar, Hasturbal is married to Bomilkars sister Amillia. Head of the Rizar family, the second most influential tribe or the Barca, he holds Bomilkar as a brother though they often disagree with each other. He fought admirably in the Last War of the Wolves and brought to light the atrocities of Porthago and Chasetown to the people of Hammerfell, rallying them to throw the legion out.

Crixus Abu Nakute - Once a writer for the Black Horse Carrier and famous author, he now resides in Hauron's obtainer as a close personal advisor. He is most famous for being the author of the Pocket Guides to Sentinel as well as the Pocket Guide to the Iliac Bay and his most famous work, How Quintus Cinncinatus brought down the Empire.


Crimson Paladin

Tarsius Vario: Born in Skingrad, he started his career as a city guard. He joined the Knights of the Nine early into the order's growth and since then has risen in rank as their numbers grew. He is now the Knight Commander of Taneth.

Kalasan: Formerly a farm boy living near Taneth, he always wanted to be a knight, but never had the chance until the Knights of the Nine arrived. He now serves as a scout for Commander Vario. He's not much of a fighter yet, but he's a skilled equestrian and knows the land well.

Vorandaril: Originally a reckless Altmer mage with a passion for Ayleid ruins, he a lich to undo dismemberment that he had suffered. After spending two centuries secluded in an Ayleid ruin just inside Hammerfell, he emerged disguised as a living Altmer, seeking mercenary employ with the Knights of the Nine.


Werewolf&Vampire

Kraven Desselius: Former slave and renown gladiator from Morrowind, also known as the "Beast Of Kvatch", "Kraven the Undefeated" and the "Champion of Vivec"(Arena). He lives his life as a Hound Of Hircine, completing any task his master desire. He currently has a home deep in the jungles of Valenwood, but left the bosmer land to complete some personal work in Hammerfell.

Draken Decumus Vladmirius: A pure-blooded vampire, Draken was born into the Cyrodilic strain of vampirism and into a couple of wealthy nobles who were turned into vampires. Draken has an unqenchable thirst for power as much as blood and will stop at nothing to achieve what he wishes. He takes no sides but himself and the secretive Order vampire Clan from Cyrodiil. A former Dark Brotherhood member and a surviving Crimson Scar, he must prove himself worthy to his superiors if he is to ascend to the heights of glory while remaining incognito from his enemies, both human and vampire.

Ashanta Rissinia: A woman born of Yokudan bloodline. Born in Hammefell, but lived most of her life in Cyrodiil. Currently a lover to an Imperial man from Cyrodiil. After many years, the returned to Sentinel for a special task bestowed upon her. Ashanta works within the courts of Sentinel as a maid and informant, alongside Haroun and Roxanna. But there is more to her than meets the eye and all is not that it seems.


Broken-Scale

Captain Camille Leon: The infamous captain of The Lusty Lady, one of the quickest ships in Tamriel, Camille has been roaming the seas and coastlines of Tamriel for adventure and plunder since she was in her early teens. Now known as "The Pirate Queen of the Western Seas", Camille and her crew are certainly a force to be reckoned with, and Camille is currently looking to lend that force to a worthy cause, in an attempt to make gold in a slightly less "illegal" way.


I am the Walrus!

Elusmyr: The Second-in-command of Alkaran's company of mages, Elusmyr is a veteran of the wars against the empire, and is a powerful mage of great education.


FC4

Samuel Ross-Once a Knight of Wayrest, he is now a sword-for-hire of sorts, on the run from assassins sent by Queen Elysana to eliminate 'the potential threat he poses'. Sometimes mistaken for Ebon-Arm, the God of War, due to his knight symbol and armor, which is a steel suit with ebony on his left arm. Jovial and quick-witted, he's an interesting customer, and certainly doesn't look the typical warrior.

Furninan-Once a Dunmeri necromantic stablehand in Cheydinhal, he is now a rune-inscribed skull resting in Sam's hip pack. He is fully aware and un-alive, just immobile; but that doesn't shut up his whining, high-pitched voice. Able to perceive magic and souls, he can often tell the influences of other souls upon someone. Sam grew up with the skull Furninan, and so he is like family. Annoying.

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DarkGypsy
 
Posts: 3309
Joined: Tue Jan 23, 2007 11:32 am

Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 12:28 pm

Draken Decumus Vladmirius, Sentinel Palace

Draken enjoyed the evening with many different individuals from the various corners of Tamriel. The attendants soon led the various parties in the palace to their rooms and apartments. It appeared the Yokudans were more hospitable than before, Draken admired their charity only because it would allow him to feed unseen. He was loved as man still by some of them, and regarded with suspicion by most. The stench of vexation must have been on him, for fear and distrust grew quickly in the wombs of the moment. He couldn't deny the presence of the Thirst that he, the wrathful Molag Bal, had made Draken pregnant with. But with the grace and civility of Clavicus Vile, Draken had moments to spare before he felt like tearing someones throat. After wasting his precious hours speaking to a group of nobles, Draken was able to lure a foolish Imperial woman after he excused himself from the many nobles. He was smart in how he spoke and whom he spoke with. He conversed with many individuals beforehand and made sure his target did as well so they wouldn't link her death to him. He walked the halls, speaking to many people in between to pass time. But the dryness in his throat increased, forcing him to make time to depart from the conversation.

He led the woman into her own room, and made sure no one was staring at him. To his advantage, everyone was too busy speaking to themselves to even notice Draken and his meal. He smiled and touched the woman's back, who jumped a bit giggling at how cold his hands were. He shook his head, claiming that she would be granted the power to warm his skin. She led him into the room, it was spacious and wide, the accommodations were fitting for nobles of any kind. Draken locked the door and approached the woman with a wicked smile upon his face. He touched her slightly, using his vampire's seduction to hypnotize her. She was entranced and caught up in the moment that she had not felt Draken descend upon her with swiftness. His teeth puncture the nape of her neck and began draining her of her precious life's blood. Color began to return to his pale skin and his eyes were a lighter shade of red as he slowly reduced her to a lifeless husk. He was "human" again.
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BlackaneseB
 
Posts: 3431
Joined: Sat Sep 23, 2006 1:21 am

Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 11:35 pm

Gilane
Marius Lepidus

The gruff-looking Imperial was a rather unusual sight in the city, people parting to make way for him as he sliced through the small crowds. Gilane didn't seem to be as busy as some of the other cities of Hammerfell, certainly not the busiest city Marius had seen in his life; as a centurion, he had stepped foot in Rihad, Anvil, Dune and the Imperial City itself, so the Yokudan urban landscape looked far from crowded to him. The fact people seemed unwilling to get closer to him only helped him navigate the city. It wasn't really depressing or odd anymore, the Colovian understood full well that's what he got for insisting to stay in Hammerfell and keep wearing his Lorica Hamata. It might not've been common in the west as much as further east, but it was certainly possible to make out the Imperial craftsmanship - unmistakeable Legion armour.

While Imperials weren't that unusual a sight in Hammerfell - even the xenophobic policies of High King Haroun and the war that swept over the land couldn't drive out all the families that had settled and integrated here during the long time spent in the Empire - Legion armour was. Despite their defeat during the War of the Wolves, the Legion was still a force feared by many and in the land of the Raga in particular it was met with both fear and hatred. Wearing a Legionnaire cuirass meant that you either were (or had once been) one yourself or had killed one; few other ways existed to get your hand on the armour of the Ruby Ranks. Both scenarios indicated a formidable warrior.

What the commoners couldn't see - and about that Marius was quite glad - was that not only he had a history with the Legion, he was one of its dreaded battlemages. Of course, the Colovian had always been a centurion first and foremost, serving alongside simple Legionnaires in the main battle line and leading them to battle, but there was no denying he was a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield, his magick well suited to close quarters. Some battlemages employed larger-scale magick that could affect the course of a whole battle; Marius wasn't one of them, but the tradeoff meant that he wasn't someone you'd want to face one on one. Or two on one, for that matter, or anything close to that.

Right now, though, the battlemage wasn't concerned about keeping his grasp of the arcane concealed to the general public (Ra Gada tended to be rather unacceptant of 'perverse magick', though many people were surprisingly willing to look past that if it happened far from them and got the job done). Papers had recently gone up around the city, calling for willing and able mercenaries to attend to an 'issue' that had been plaguing the southern coast for quite a while. Marius was well aware of the problem; for once, he was taking the job not for the money, but because he was concerned.

People were disappearing. It was unnoticeable for the most part, small caravans or lone travellers going missing, occurences that could well be blamed on Alik'r beasts or nomads. But the government wasn't the only party interested in this and Marius had been sent to investigate such a disappearance of a caravan himself once. He failed to find anything at all; it seemed like the caravan simply dropped off the face of Tamriel. It spent a night in one village and failed to arrive to another one further up the road, with no sign of struggle along the way. The mercenary knew what nomad raids and attacks by the more fearsome animals that lurked in the great desert looked, and this didn't seem to have either group's touch. No tracks, no nothing.

Whatever is behind this, it's not natural. A whole village is gone and from what I hear, it's the same as with the caravan. This goes beyond the Redguards; one day, it could come back to bite us all in the ass if nothing's done. And who has the balls to try if not me..? I don't need anyone messing with my area anyway, and what's to say I won't be taken one day... This is too weird to be just simple raids or whatever. Animals don't hit whole villages, and the Ayuubs wouldn't accept a tribe large enough to hit a village like that in their roaming grounds.

The city hall arose before Marius as he approached its doors. He pounded on them with the heavy hand expected of a centurion, only one thought on his mind - he was willing to work with the Yokudan government this once, for the sake of getting rid of whatever it was that was kidnapping all those people. The battlemage didn't much care about the people gone, but this creeped him out; and he didn't like being creeped out.


Sentinel
Wilfred du Lombard

Jazbiel of Kiel was a famous playwright, not just among the Raga but in Anticlere as well. Manfred Flyte seemed quite interested in supporting the arts in Anticlere and many of the nobles followed in his stead, taking promising authors, actors and artists under their wing; after all, being associated with good art was just another way of boosting your prestige and getting ahead, something that nobility in Anticlere always looked to. The citizenry might not have remembered promises for long, but a good play or a masterful performance would be stuck in their heads for a while, and the noble who made it possible remembered when the election to the Council of Nobles came.

Wilfred was himself genuinely interested in various arts from Hammerfell, driven by the fascination for exotic things common to many Anticlerians. He didn't have much further to climb in his career - the position of the grand marshall was a very lucrative dead end, a position for life that meant not only that he was forbidden from becomming a councillor proper, but also that he carried great influence - but that didn't stop him from supporting Ra Gada performers who wished to spread their wings in Anticlere. The city's southern neighbours and allies were famed for their plays in particular, after all. The opportunity to see one of Jazbiel's works was not to be squandered, being a contributing factor to his excitement, as if the chance to finally discuss matters more openly with the High King wasn't enough.

Much to be discussed. I'm sure the Elden Yokeda will be interested in the news from our city, but, more importantly, I need to find out how bad the talks in Rihad went and whether we need to start weathering for the upcomming storm and dodging of the Imperial Cult that will follow immediately or if there is some time yet; the Flyte will want to hear that more than anything.

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Vahpie
 
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Joined: Sat Aug 26, 2006 5:07 pm

Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 4:11 pm

Sentinel, The Grand Theater

Hundreds were in attendance, the large theater of Sentinel was built with luxurious elevated boxes and spaces (much like an opera house) for the valued patrons of the plays and for the Imperial Family. Below were the house seats filled with families, various merchants, and vendors selling sweet meats and Jamba, a local brew. The theater bustled with the eager anticipation and movement of its audience, while a more orderly and distinguished procession moved through a reserved passage. The very walls of the theater were lined in golden thread and decor, murals of folk heroes, actual tales of battles long past, and beasts from Yokudan mythology were engraved and inked in a colorful palate. The marble floor echoed the armored footsteps of the immaculately armored Tervola, flanking the High King along with his closest, Wilfred, as well as Xerxes.

The curtains to the box were opened, a Valenwood timber table awaited the party, with plush leather chairs and down filled cushions for support. Monocles and scopes were given on request, but the High King preferred his personal monocle, crystal from Alinor and crafted for the purpose of Cyrodiilian Opera and the Ra Gada Theater.

The Theater Director stood through the other side, in a reverent bow, he was bald and clean shaven, extravagantly dressed in layered Yokudan robes of purple and a glossy black. "Your Imperial Majesty, you do us honor visiting the Theater during a most personal time for you, the Th-a-ss-ad. Your esteemed guests do us honor as well, Anticlertians have always been welcome patrons of the Fine Arts, and some of the most beneficial." he remained in bow, his arms spread out to his side. It was the highest form of respect a Ra Gada could give, an awkward gesture with roots in complete submission though it was to represent reverence in modern times.

The High King gestured for the entourage to take their seats, his arm reaching out for a chair for his wife, while also looking to Wilfred, "Grand Marshall, if you would." He would need the man near him for private discussion. The table hosted a variety of cheeses, freshly baked bread (with the delicious aroma permeating it) as well as texts containing the history of the Theater and Thassad III, candlebras illuminated the area to allow just enough light for the patrons to see each other and move without hurting themselves.

Candles below were beginning to be put out, a sign the play would begin within minutes. Today of all the week was a special treat, Jazbet of Kiel would offer his play on an ancient Redguard folk tale, Lord-Vivec's-Sword-Meeting-With-Cyrus-The-Restless. Earlier in the day's morning, The Tear Which Wept, a Ra Gada story of a Yokudan Ansu being trapped within a soul gem due to foul magic by left handed elves, was met with great success. Much cost and expense were given to ensure the integrity of the festival, and honoring the late High King.

Attendants entered the private balcony, beautiful women though heavily tattooed in Yoku as masters of their craft, something they took much pride in.

The oldest of the four attendants addressed the party, with a younger one (dressed so very similar, the bunch) translating in amazingly flawless Bretic.

"Good evening, tonight we offer an assortment of cheeses, many from Lainlyn and Riverview, a main course of Porterhouse, grilled to order, alongside Lobster Thermidore which consists of the Lobster itself along with a succulent sauce from egg yolk, Menevian Cognac, roasted potatoes with butter, and finished with a fine Breton dessert, Daggerfellian-styled cheesecake. Beverages include the House Wine, Jamba, and Klava. Please enjoy your meal, as well as your show."

Klava was a favorite of the King and how he got by his day, it was something he encountered first in Elinhir, a local coffee put through a filter of eggshells, woodchips, and vanilla beans. Reheated to almost boiling and then poured through a cloth to remove oils. It had become a staple of the Yokudan Empire and was treasured by many as the national drink. Far smoother than coffee.

The curtain raised, wooden waves carved and painted blue crossed each other, as a small boat with sail seemingly glided across the stage (propped through thin wire made of mythril going horizontally. At its stern was an extremely beautiful man (although his trimmed beard and expression were to provoke opposite thought) who could be none other than Cyrus the Restless. His first mate approached him...and so it began...

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Danel
 
Posts: 3417
Joined: Tue Feb 27, 2007 8:35 pm

Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 6:54 pm

Taneth

The flash of metal striking metal in the armory matched the intensity at which preparation for the city's defense were being made all throughout Taneth. War was inevitable and Venetia knew that. To the north the bridge that lead across the river to Taneth was being fortified. In the river sharpened takes were placed making it difficult to traverse and almost certain death would take any that would fall off of the structure itself. Toward the north side of the river the army slingers were instructed to gather the stones and stock pile them on the south side where they would make their stand. They used shovels and picks to dig up the terrain making it softer. On the south side two large pits on either side of the road were being dug with the excess dirt being place in front of them. To the flanks of the mound pair were dug parallel trenches, the first of which for defensive purpose and the second one to be occupied by troops.

"Aryon, you've seen the armies of Sentinel, with what will they come at us with?" Venetia's presence ensured the workers would continue in their tasks as instructed by the Dunmer but all listened as best they could.

"Their armies are vast with capable warriors. But what they have in determination, they lack in tactical application. We will already have our defenses up by the time they arrive and their only way to cross will be at this bridge. Their capable horseman ship will count for nothing as well. All they will be able to do is throw wave after wave against us until they will be convinced that enough of them have died." Aryon spoke sharply with a sort of mystique that both made the others confident and terrified as if by magic he had conjured up his strategy.

In the distance Andrethi watched the old mentor as he discussed with the Knights. His mind kept coming back to Sultana and the secrets she unknowingly revealed. What the Dwemer had hidden in the Corten Mountains. "A machine of numbers bestowing desires." It sounded like the rambling of number cultists a school of thought reminiscent of the Dwemer faith. He suspected Aryon of following their ideas and although he had read up as much as he could on their beliefs there was still much left unknown. Did Aryon want this machine for himself? Did he simply want to keep it out of Hauron's hands? Did Hauron know about it as well?

"You're always deep in thought, Elegant." Crane approached Andrethi handing him an empty cup while with his other hand he poured him the heavy black tea that they drank. Andrethi instinctively waited for Crane to drink first. In the Morag Tong paranoia was the only way to ensure you survived and these customs were ingrained within every fiber.


OOC: Less mew mew more pew pew.
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no_excuse
 
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Joined: Sun Jul 16, 2006 3:56 am

Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 6:43 pm

Meeting Room, Rihad Keep

The Knight Commander nodded at the bizarre floating Altmer as he spoke. Like almost every Knight of the Nine, he distrusted elves who weren't Dunmer. Still, he was fairly sure this Vorandaril wasn't atypical Altmer and probably didn't work for the Dominion, seeing as he was coming to Imperials for work. Furthermore, Vorandaril's manner of dress was extremely alien from even the odd fashions of the Aldmeri Dominion. Probably some sort of expatriate. I guess we can trust him for smaller stuff, at least until he proves himself. Certainly an interesting one.

"I represent none but myself. I am Vorandaril, battlemage and master of the School of Mysticism. I have come here because I wish to bring my powers to bear against those that would take away our freedom to use and study magic. All I ask in return is for you to share your order's arcane resources with me." came Vorandaril's response in an odd hollow voice. That can't be natural...

"Well, Mr. Vorandaril," said Terentius "I can't say the Knights of the Nine have much in the way of arcane resources. Although if there's anything in particular you need, I suppose I could make an arrangement with the Mages' Guild to acquire it for you. That is, if you're really a master of Mysticism. Stay around after the meeting is over and give me a demonstration of your abilities."

Terentius realized that the pirate Camille Leon's interruption had derailed the meeting away from Belisarius and his Dunmer competitor. He was impressed with the patience of both rivals for not interrupting him in return during his brief interviews of Camille and Vorandaril.

"Anyway," he said abruptly as he realized his mistake "I believe we were discussing the relative merits of your bands, gentlemen and gentlemer?" As he said this, he turned back to Belisarius and Athanden.
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RAww DInsaww
 
Posts: 3439
Joined: Sun Feb 25, 2007 5:47 pm

Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 10:57 am

Gilane

The city hall was modest but surely a place of importance, and the only logical area for the city's business to be conducted, located directly in its center. The walnut doors opened, behind them a shy Bosmer servant, her eyes wandering off and her head looking low. A quick peak of the man's armor and her eyes widened in surprise. Attempting to keep her emotion to herself she gestured to one of the City guard, sitting behind a desk and easily passed his prime. A mess of papers was apparent before him as well ink stains, a personal assistant to the City Magistrate. He looked up from his papers to Marius.

"A deserter...eh?" he looked the man over, the guard stood up revealing his massive belly. "Man of your type here for the Knight-Sherrif, a dozen more have showed up this morning." he gestured for Lepidus to follow, knocking on a door only a few meters away.

"Come in!" a muffled shot escaped from the other side, the doors opened to Jarod's office. The man, casually dressed in a waistcoat puffed from his pipe, sitting down idol at his desk. He saw Marius, turned to the guard and nodded him off.

"You look like a man of action. I am the Knight-Sherrif of Gilane. I'd presume the posters looking for sell-swords caught your attenti-"

Jarod was cut off as the doors burst open with an angry Redguard woman entering in a rage. She was dressed as a man would, not unlike Jarod. A green waistcoat and black trousers, white blouse beneath. But curved daggers rested behind her hips as well as a miniature sized crossbow in its own sheath at her thigh. A gloved hand, balled into a fist landed rudely throughout the door.

"DAMN IT JAROD! Your putting me on the job! Just give me the damned details on that caravan!...You have your position because of me, do not forget!"

The imposing lawman did nothing but sigh, "...Kira...for the last time...hiring someone of your reputation...its questionable."

Kira, smuggler and outlaw when opportunity presented itself. As hard and rough as the woman was, she could not eliminate how people looked at her. She was gorgeous, uncharacteristically so. She could have been a Diva or famed actress within Sentinel, perhaps royalty somewhere...if only she were...different.

Cigar placed to lip and ignited quickly, she inhaled deeply. Smoke left the nostrils as she began barking once again, "Just give me the damn loca-" she cut herself off before turning to Marius, "You'd hire him before me?! The balls on you!"

Jarod lost his temper slamming his fist on his desk and standing up, pointing to the door "GET OUT!"

The Fierce Raga smuggler turned around and waved off the man, the guard outside the office attempting to appear as if doing his job before the woman's growl shriveled the fat man into a little one.

Jarod looked to Marius again, "Pardon the intrusion...she's difficult and every adventurer between here and Sentinel wants this job.
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Brad Johnson
 
Posts: 3361
Joined: Thu May 24, 2007 7:19 pm

Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 3:54 pm

Rihad Temple
Lysandra

Dawn broke over the city of Rihad, the jewel of the southern coast, everyday life only just beginning its course. But there were places where life never stopped to catch a breath in the first place, and one such place was the Yoku Temple. Almost smack in the middle of the port city and with its obvious religious connotations, it seemed the perfect place for the day to day headquarter for the Knights of the Nine; only the very top echelon of the order frequented the keep of Rihad, the rank and file and their immediate superiors making their home here. There was a bonus to occupying the temple, too - it showed that the Yoku gods could not even protect their own mundane abode from the servants of the Nine. So how could they protect the people who worshipped them, or harm those who did not?

Not all and indeed not many knights stayed up and about the whole night, mostly just those who were on duty, garrisoning the city's walls overnight. However, Lysandra had no intention of resting; she didn't feel tired, and even if she would have there were more important matters to be attended than indulging her every whim. There was a time and place for putting basic things ahead of her work, and this wasn't it. The meeting with the Yokudan delegation made it entirely clear that war was just around the corner, which meant that the battlemage needed to be ready.

"Milady, I believe rest would be prudent. The heathens won't declare war in three hours, surely you can afford the time..?"

"Aman, if I wanted a servant to remind me of the time, I would have ordered one here." The Imperial's voice took on a steely undertone, flashing an annoyed glance at the knight beside her. For all his potential usefulness, Aman seemed to have an annoying quality to think of Lysandra as a lady of the order first and his superior second. The battlemage herself chalked it up to the fact the man was Colovian; in Colovia, it was less usual for women to actively engage in politics or warfare, with those who did being viewed with suspicion by many, mostly restricting them to acting through influencing their husbands or lovers. Nibenese females generally enjoyed more freedoms.

Maybe some see it as an amusing thing, but it's simply a nuisance in truth. Our western 'brothers' would do well to keep their idiocy sealed in their highlands.

"Obviously we don't know anything for certain about whether the heathens intend to leave a diplomatic envoy of some sort here..?" After a short silence filled with the shuffling of papers and cloth as Lysandra filed through the various things on her table - various documents and pouches - the battlemage spoke again. The steely undertone was gone, replaced by the boredom that was prevalent whenever the Yokudan Empire was brought up.

"Obviously." Aman nodded. "Given that the High King left in haste and many of the Crowns of Rihad are in a similar hurry to leave, I doubt that they'll leave anyone to represent us. Sentinel always did prefer to let their swords and nails do the talking." Lysandra rose an eyebrow in silence, noting the sudden sourness in Aman's voice. She hadn't had the time to find out much about her aid, which was why she couldn't advance the matter of gathering a reliable group of knights far right now, but the battlemage had learned from a fellow Paralictor that the Colovian had served during the War of the Wolves; if that was true, he was probably referring to the crucifixion of Imperial prisoners of war, a large part of the animosity that lingered and actually seemed to grow after the war ended.

"Yes, well if they do decide to leave someone, Stanet's little show during the meeting makes it unlikely they'll go to him if they have something to say. I suppose I'll have to play ambassador after all." She yawned. Whether this would be another annoyance or would actually prove useful remained to be seen, but Lysandra was fairly confident that if the Yokudans ever had anything to say to the knights, they would probably go to the 'Nibenese witch', as much as they'd hate it. "Make sure the laymen know to notify me if someone looks."


Sentinel
Wilfred du Lombard

Wilfred waited for the High King and the Empress to sit before taking his set as well, making a point to sit close to the Imperial family; after all, there was clearly much that needed to be said, as had been stressed before in the throne room of the palace. Of course, the play still interested him, but discussing matters of importance to both countries took clear precedence over enjoying the performance and the grand marshall understood that perfectly well. Manfred wouldn't have chosen him for such an important position if he didn't.

Watching the play begin unfold before them, the young Anticlerian took a glass of wine. It was always closer to Bretons than the local drinks of the Ra Gada, and Anticlerians were no exception; while they themselves weren't renowned for their wines, the country's drink still wasn't anything to scoff at, even if many nobles preferred importing it from Daggerfall and, for those rich enough, even Colovia. Raphael wasn't around (he was sitting with the higher Raga officials that weren't quite part of the High King's closest circle but still important parts of the Yokudan government that kept it running relatively smoothly), and even if he had been, the diplomat wasn't of a station that would permit him to talk freely with the Imperial family; it fell upon Wilfred to converse with Haroun about matters of grave importance to both parties, not an entirely new position for him.

"How fares the reorganisation of the Yokudan army? I trust the Anticlerian troops we provided are doing their duty well, despite not being quite in the shape my great captal and I would like them to be." He chose a less important topic to begin the conversation, judging it proper to get the simple, yet still important matters out of the way before approaching the most important questions. At the same time as he spoke, Wilfred helped himself to one of the scopes left for their use, using it to follow the action on the stage; this promised to be an exquisite play.

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Wanda Maximoff
 
Posts: 3493
Joined: Mon Jun 12, 2006 7:05 am

Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 12:14 pm

Rihad Temple
Lysandra

Dawn broke over the city of Rihad, the jewel of the southern coast, everyday life only just beginning its course. But there were places where life never stopped to catch a breath in the first place, and one such place was the Yoku Temple. Almost smack in the middle of the port city and with its obvious religious connotations, it seemed the perfect place for the day to day headquarter for the Knights of the Nine; only the very top echelon of the order frequented the keep of Rihad, the rank and file and their immediate superiors making their home here. There was a bonus to occupying the temple, too - it showed that the Yoku gods could not even protect their own mundane abode from the servants of the Nine. So how could they protect the people who worshipped them, or harm those who did not?

Not all and indeed not many knights stayed up and about the whole night, mostly just those who were on duty, garrisoning the city's walls overnight. However, Lysandra had no intention of resting; she didn't feel tired, and even if she would have there were more important matters to be attended than indulging her every whim. There was a time and place for putting basic things ahead of her work, and this wasn't it. The meeting with the Yokudan delegation made it entirely clear that war was just around the corner, which meant that the battlemage needed to be ready.

"Milady, I believe rest would be prudent. The heathens won't declare war in three hours, surely you can afford the time..?"

"Aman, if I wanted a servant to remind me of the time, I would have ordered one here." The Imperial's voice took on a steely undertone, flashing an annoyed glance at the knight beside her. For all his potential usefulness, Aman seemed to have an annoying quality to think of Lysandra as a lady of the order first and his superior second. The battlemage herself chalked it up to the fact the man was Colovian; in Colovia, it was less usual for women to actively engage in politics or warfare, with those who did being viewed with suspicion by many, mostly restricting them to acting through influencing their husbands or lovers. Nibenese females generally enjoyed more freedoms.

Maybe some see it as an amusing thing, but it's simply a nuisance in truth. Our western 'brothers' would do well to keep their idiocy sealed in their highlands.

"Obviously we don't know anything for certain about whether the heathens intend to leave a diplomatic envoy of some sort here..?" After a short silence filled with the shuffling of papers and cloth as Lysandra filed through the various things on her table - various documents and pouches - the battlemage spoke again. The steely undertone was gone, replaced by the boredom that was prevalent whenever the Yokudan Empire was brought up.

"Obviously." Aman nodded. "Given that the High King left in haste and many of the Crowns of Rihad are in a similar hurry to leave, I doubt that they'll leave anyone to represent us. Sentinel always did prefer to let their swords and nails do the talking." Lysandra rose an eyebrow in silence, noting the sudden sourness in Aman's voice. She hadn't had the time to find out much about her aid, which was why she couldn't advance the matter of gathering a reliable group of knights far right now, but the battlemage had learned from a fellow Paralictor that the Colovian had served during the War of the Wolves; if that was true, he was probably referring to the crucifixion of Imperial prisoners of war, a large part of the animosity that lingered and actually seemed to grow after the war ended.

"Yes, well if they do decide to leave someone, Stanet's little show during the meeting makes it unlikely they'll go to him if they have something to say. I suppose I'll have to play ambassador after all." She yawned. Whether this would be another annoyance or would actually prove useful remained to be seen, but Lysandra was fairly confident that if the Yokudans ever had anything to say to the knights, they would probably go to the 'Nibenese witch', as much as they'd hate it. "Make sure the laymen know to notify me if someone looks."


[font="Trebuchet MS"]Rihad Temple

The creeping dawns light of Magnus slowly began to wash over the port city of Rihad, illuminating its once dark streets and alleyways that were shrouded in night just a few hours ago. In truth, Crixus had barely slept, his mind had raced all through the night and his stomach turned at the thoughts which crossed his mind. However sick and filthy it made him feel, he had already came this far, whatever fate had in store for him he would meet with welcome arms, or at least, that's what he told himself. Crixus had been sitting on a bench in front of the hulking temple of Rihad since before dawns first light. By far the largest building on Rihad's south side and indeed, in Rihad proper, the massive temple had once been dedicated to the pantheon of Yokudan God's but now sat the the headquarters of the Knights of the Nine and had been transformed into another cathedral of the Nine Divine, no doubt a move motivated by their need to show the people of Rihad who was truly in charge of the city now. As Crixus approached the temple he took note of the guards and soldiers around him, the entire place had been transformed into a fortress that was swarming with foreigners from Cyrodill and beyond, all dogs of the Order who Crixus found a great disgust in, but again, he was here seeking the aid of one of their own, so he pushed his disgust as far from his mind as he could.

It didn't take long for Crixus to spot the woman he was looking for, Lysandra the Battlemage...no..the Paralictor, that was the witch's title and rank, and it was her abilities that he sought aid from. To the average on looker Crixus would appear little more than old tourist from Colovia, his white beard clearly showing his age and his traditional Colovian robes he favored made him look more like a foreigner than a Yokudan diplomat. Crixus began to approach her from behind, clearing his raspy voice before speaking to her in her native Nibenese.

"Paralictor.." Crixus began, giving a small, respectful bow before continuing. "I would like to...apologize..for the circumstances we were forced to meet upon. I think had we met in another time and place, we might have found much in common.." he stopped, waiting for her to acknowledge his presence.
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Emilie M
 
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Joined: Fri Mar 16, 2007 9:08 am

Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 8:15 pm

Gilane
Marius Lepidus

"A deserter...eh?"

"I guess you could say that, yeah." Marius mumbled in response to the rather overweight city guard's comment. Deserter... He didn't like that word at all, but it was true. The centurion never did bother to formally inform the Imperial Legion of his retirement of sorts, lots of people slipped away in the chaos that followed the War of the Wolves. Deserter... One of the reasons he was glad he'd stayed in Hammerfell. He could only too easily imagine that that's exactly what his father would say, so he kept his work ambiguous in the few letters he sent home.

Keeping silent, the ex-legionnaire followed the city guard through the door into the knight-sherrif's office. However, their conversation was rather rudely - and explosively - interrupted by a woman of unusual beauty and matching temper. Finally, Jarod lost his temper as well, roaring the woman - apparently one Kira, someone of quite dubious reputation if the knight-sherrif considered hiring a Colovian before her - out and restoring some semblance of order.

"Pardon the intrusion... she's difficult and every adventurer between here and Sentinel wants this job."

"Quite the exciting person, that one, I gather?" The ex-centurion responded without bothering to hide his amusemant at the situation, his Yoku quite fluent but with an obvious Colovian accent. "Although this whole deal is worth getting fired up over, if anything is. I imagine as many people were attracted here by this matter itself as there were by the pay."

"You got it right, though, err, knight-sherrif, wasn't it? Your posters did the trick, and I can bet you my grandfather's honorary bust that I'm a man of action. Before you ask about experience, I'm not green, spent over a year in your sandbox, I know pretty well how things run out there." Marius paused for a second and pointed with his thumb over his shoulder, indicating both the Alik'r and the city of Gilane that spread beyond the walls of the city hall. "And, bonus points, I've even got personal experience in this disappearance malarkey from before when it hit the disappearing villages stage. Although there's not exactly much that I learned from that, asides from the fact that whoever - or whatever - is doing this, it's damn good at it."



Rihad Temple
Lysandra

Lysandra was a bit surprised to hear someone speak to her in Nibenese, before turning around and seeing that it was none other than Crixus Abu Nakute, the Raga author and diplomat she had seen and briefly crossed swords with - so to speak - during the meeting. Seeing Crixus' small bow of respect, she immediately waved Aman away, muttering a silent "Dismissed, knight." before going on to listen to the author greet her in a rather unusual way. He sounded strangely... apologetic about all of this, which suceeded in making the battlemage suspicious.

Crixus might not have showed much during the meeting, but I doubt he's as simple to use as the Barca khan with his temper. Whatever he wants, this doesn't sound like something that would follow that disaster in the keep.

"Mister Abu Nakute, you honour me." Lysandra's voice didn't take on the softness that it possessed during the more formal part of the meeting, but the mocking undertone usually present wasn't there as she returned the small bow. "You might not believe me when I say so, given who I am and who I chose to tie my destiny with, but I am sincerely sorry for this state of affairs that we find ourselves in. Maids of Mara like myself do not desire war. But we are both but tools in the hands of the great ones of Tamriel; eloquent tools, but nonetheless."

Of course, Crixus wouldn't believe her, but that was the case whenever two politicians met - neither believed the other, but it was customary to exchange pleasantries. Lysandra herself didn't see much in common between them, except maybe for a good feeling of what to say and when; that is exactly why she didn't point it out. She wasn't on a quest to aggravate every Yokudan she came in contact with and the aged author was more likely to reveal sooner what exactly was his intention was when beginning this meeting if the Paralictor displayed a willingness to cooperate.

"Perhaps it would be better if we talked in my quarters..? Further from the bustle of the order." The Nibenese motioned towards a door slightly deeper inside the corridor into which she and Aman had been heading before Crixus showed up; behind that door lay Lysandra's room, a humble abode with only a simple bed and a work table, cluttered with things expected of someone in her position - documents, mainly. She wasn't certain, but apparently the room used to belong to one of the priests of the Temple before it was converted; he had lost it long before the battlemage arrived in Rihad, back when she was still in her element, handling the order's affairs in the Imperial City.

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Conor Byrne
 
Posts: 3411
Joined: Wed Jul 11, 2007 3:37 pm

Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 6:37 pm

Spoiler

Name: Belisarius Baenius
Gender: Male
Age: 34
Race: Imperial
Birthsign: The Warrior

Skills (in a nutshell): Blade, Spear, Marksmen, Medium armor, Block, Speechcraft, Horseback Riding/Fighting

General Appearance: A stocky and muscular man of roughly 6'3" with broad, square shoulders and a solid build. Has light brown hair which is kept short and generally messy allowing his pearly-blue eyes to shine without being blocked by hair. He has a strong jawline and a somewhat prominent nose. His face is usually clean shaven but often he grows out a fine mustache which he will curl at its ends just for laughs most of the time.

Weapons: Short, broad blade with modest pommel decoration. Though he doesn't carry them with him like his blade, he also uses spears and bows when needed.

Armour/Clothing: Wears a chain hauberk like the rest of his troops augmented with bits of leather and cloth padded bits on the shoulders, legs and biceps. Also has an assortment of plain tunics and trousers as well as a set of nice clothes for the occasional fancy occasion.

Personality: Defiantly more abrasive then his twin brother, he is often prone to fits of anger which often cloud his judgement. He is starting to control his anger but he is also somewhat immature as well and people often think he is bi-polar as he enjoys trying out different personalities depending on the situation and his mood. He can be civilized but he prefers to leave that stuff to his brother and is more of a typical soldier who enjoys a night of bloodshed and then mead. He likes to intimidate people as well with his attitude and decent-sized build but is generally a nice, if somewhat abrasive, guy if someone gets to know him.

Brief History: Born into a minor noble family in Nibenay with a decent amount of land that he inherited upon their deaths when he and his brother were still fairly young. Being so young however, they rashly sold off the land and its property and slaves to get the money to begin a band of mercenaries to fight with them in the turbulent times. Like most mercenaries, he saw tons of action during the Oblivion Crisis but ended up fighting bandits and rogue upstarts more than invading demons from the hordes of Dagon. Despite this however, he still earned a reputation in the Mowwind-Argonia-Cyrodiil corner of the world for their skills in lightning fast raids. He did not take part in the Imperial invasion of Hammerfell but he and his brother decided to move north as new conflict has promised to break out and with profit to be made.


Name: Justin Baenius
Gender: Male
Age: 34
Race: Imperial
Birthsign: The Warrior

Skills (in a nutshell): Blade, Spear, Marksmen, Medium armor, Block, Speechcraft, Horseback Riding/Fighting, Destruction, Alteration

General Appearance: A stocky and muscular man of roughly 6'3" with broad, square shoulders and a solid build. Has light brown hair which is kept short and generally messy allowing his pearly-blue eyes to shine without being blocked by hair. He has a strong jawline and a somewhat prominent nose. His face is usually clean shaven but often he grows out a fine mustache which he will curl at its ends just for laughs most of the time.

Weapons: A shorter blade then his brother but still with a broad blade and modestly decorated pommel. Though he doesn't carry them with him like his blade, he also uses spears and bows when needed and can also use destruction magicks almost like a battlemage.

Armour/Clothing: Wears a chain hauberk like the rest of his troops augmented with bits of leather and cloth padded bits on the shoulders, legs and biceps. Also has an assortment of plain tunics and trousers as well as a set of nice clothes for the occasional fancy occasion.

Personality: He is more subtle and mild-mannered then his twin brother and usually handles the more delicate situations and meetings as well as attending any fancy dinners they are invited to by clients. He often has to be a voice of calm to his brother and seems to be the only one who can tame the man when he truly flies into a rage. He seems to be incapable of being "mean" and has often been out-manipulated in meetings because of it but his calculating manner and calm facade also let him get the upper hand as well. His brother dislikes his love for magick but it has become a hobby for him for the last few years as he drifts further from the mundane side of battle into the magickal side of things.

Brief History: Born into a minor noble family in Nibenay with a decent amount of land that he inherited upon their deaths when he and his brother were still fairly young. Being so young however, they rashly sold off the land and its property and slaves to get the money to begin a band of mercenaries to fight with them in the turbulent times. Like most mercenaries, he saw tons of action during the Oblivion Crisis but ended up fighting bandits and rogue upstarts more than invading demons from the hordes of Dagon. Despite this however, he still earned a reputation in the Mowwind-Argonia-Cyrodiil corner of the world for their skills in lightning fast raids. He did not take part in the Imperial invasion of Hammerfell but he and his brother decided to move north as new conflict has promised to break out and with profit to be made.

Accomplices:

Praxedes Duoar (Imperial, Female, 32)

One of the higher up and more trusted nobles of the group. She is incredibly small for a warrior at a measly 5'1" and 125 pounds but her body is muscular and thick. Her long chestnut hair seems to be perpetually tied in a pony-tail that falls to her shoulder blades. Her nose is bent and clearly previously broken and her eyes are small, squinty and watery-blue. Her jawline is slender and delicate and seem to even out her rugged appearance a little. Two scars run perpendicular each other from her right ear to her eye and from her right ear to her neck. her skin is dark tanned as well. Despite her size, even on a main battlefield she is a threat, wielding bow and short saber with skill as well as small metal buckler and a hard leather (almost like lamellar) chest protector. She is also a strong choice for stealth operations and has a knack for alchemy.

She is another strong personality but she generally has her tempers in check. She often accompanies the brothers on diplomatic missions and job "interviews" as a strong presence in meetings. She highly enjoys the pleasures of the flesh, including six, drugs and alcohol and enjoys all the things in life to their fullest.

Being decent friends of the Baenius family, she shared their ambitions for becoming a strong mercenary force and sold her parents land as soon as the Twins inherited their own parents fortune. She's been there from the start and therefore is highly trusted and respected by everyone, including the Twins.


Vhosek (Redguard, Male, 38)

A fine example of the skilled warriors that are produced by the Ra'Gada race. He stands at an average 6 feet tall and is much more slender then the Twins with rounder shoulder and a thinner build but he is without a doubt stronger then them with long legs and wiry muscles. His head is clean shaven and tattooed with many runes and such. His eyes are a delicate brown to match his skin tone and his nose is flat and broad. He is highly skilled with spear and shield, bow and arrow and long sword on the battlefield and has a strong sense of strategy and politics. His spear is nine feet long and made of fine wood and tipped in silver. His shield is a medium sized round wooden shield, strapped to his left arm but easily removed to fight with his blade which is a fine falcata edged with silver as well, sensibly decorated and wears a fine scale hauberk.

He is an outspoken personality with the ability to intimidate many with his cold stare but is by no means an unfriendly man, and is the first to join the drinking and gambling men in the mess hall (so to speak in a cave). He has a somewhat sick sense of humor and is a wild looter after a successful battle, sometimes having to be held in check by his peers. Honorable in battle but ruthless in looting as a victor, he is not the best person to lose to.

Vhosek joined after the group had established himself, but still when they were a fledgling rag-tag bunch in eastern Cyrodiil and southern Cyrodiil. He is who began the group acceptance of those who are of un-noble birth but were still quite wealthy. He is well respected by all members and is held in high regard by the Twins. He often accompanies whoever Praxedes isn't going with and stands only behind her in rank of the army.


Dalvus Llenim (Dunmer, Male, 138)

A typical skinny mage type. Roughly 5'8" and though well toned from traveling, he is nowhere near as strong as his companions. His dirty white hair is long, unkempt and unstyled to fall down his back, almost to his tailbone though it is often tucked into his hood. His typical red eyes of a Dunmer are large and wide, giving away his curiosity in many things. His face is still youthful but weathered from travel and battle. He can wield a heavy steel mace with surprising skill with help from its enchanted "hardness" to deal good damage with little weight. His main power comes in the arcane however, nearly mastering the school on Conjuration and being highly proficient in Illusion magicks, whilst dabbling enough in destruction to protect himself. He robes are a navy blue color, with purple runes circling the bottom and the wrists.

He is a soft spoken, mild tempered, group "punching bag" of a personality. He knows the jokes come in good fun but his companions often choose him as a target to unleash frustration in the from of insults which he lets roll of his shoulders. He is highly intelligent however and enjoys discussions with a certain Dremora who he favors to summon and has earned a shred of respect from the being. No matter how soft spoken he may seem, to anger him is to usually bring upon your demise at the hands of a Daedroth while you lie immobilized on the ground.

He was another latecomer who also brought a magickal component to the mercenary group. He and 300 fellow wizards went West and took a small part in the Sentinel-Empire wars, before joining up with the Twins six months ago when the group first entered Hammerfell. Being the only magick users of the group, they are highly valued but each wields decent power in varying schools of magick. Dalvus is well respected by the Twins, and because of how fast he earned their trust, he is often hated by the others who sometimes think he charmed the two men into liking him.




Name: Jo'Khart
Gender: Male
Age: 39
Race: Khajiit (Dagi)
Birthsign: The Steed

Skills (in a nutshell): Destruction, Illusion, Alteration, Sneak, Athletics, Acrobatics, Battle-magick

General Appearance: Slightly larger than a house cat, maybe two feet at the shoulder when on all four legs. Not chunky or muscular by any means, long whiskers and a tail with what seems to be a perpetually singed tip.
Hair: Medium length tan color fur.

Weapons: Pure magicka

Armour/Clothing: A few sets of close fitting (not tight but not baggy) robes, of different colors and designs but usually greens, browns, yellows and blues.

Other Items: An amulet that he has fashioned into a belt due to his size. A simple triangle of metal with a small pearl set into it giving him uncanny speed and agility.

Personality: Highly intelligent and speaks in a very formal manner, even if with friends which can make sifting through conversations with him a challenge in listening. He recently turned to a more experimental use of magick, trying spell effects out in ways that they rarely get used due to him being intelligent and somewhat eccentric. All around, not a bad guy to hang out with though humor is not something he is good at.

Brief History: Born in Elsweyr but soon moved around the Empire to learn magick at his own pace because his family was constantly on the move. His magickal prowess comes from his mother and for a Khajiit, he lived a pretty good life in avoiding the troubles many of his people had to endure back home. When he and his family parted ways he continued to study magick under the Guild members in Bruma where he had split from his family. He has never seen one of his kind (Dagi) during his extensive travels and it is one of the reasons which he travels back to ELsweyr for. He did not travel long when he met his friend Arnand who he is with now who protected him during his dangerous studies. After several years in Bruma, he journeyed to Hammerfell to get a feeling on magicks in the west where he knew them to be frowned upon and fatefully met his old friend Arnand after deciding his life needed some adventure to it.



Name: Arnand Ashford
Gender: Male
Age: 31
Race: Breton
Birthsign: The Tower

Skills (in a nutshell): Blade, Athletics, Medium armor, Shield Training, Alteration, Climbing, Marksmen

General Appearance: A tall, dashing man of roughly 6'4" with a strong, sturdy build of 185 pounds. His face (and body) are tanned slightly and his face is clean-shaven with high cheek bones and a small, pointed nose. His body is tall but with sturdy, broad shoulders.
Hair: Long and black, tied into a ponytail.
Eyes: A light blue. Round shaped but small.

Weapons: http://getasword.com/blog/wp-content/gallery/types-of-swords-medieval/sabre.jpg with plain black scabbard. A simple http://cdn2.iofferphoto.com/img/item/202/557/954/g_welsh-short-bow-915d0.jpg w/ quiver of 20 arrows. A small dagger as well used both for fighting and as a tool so it is quite worn.

Armour/Clothing: A fine shirt of http://www.swordsofmight.com/images/products/detail/Riveted_Aluminum_Chainmail_Shirt.jpg over a very light long sleeved shirt. A nice green or blue or brown (depends) vest is worn over these as well. Wears a pair of nice, shin-high leather boots that seem brand new despite being worn for a decade. A simple pair of black trousers and a hood (but no cloak) for travel. The gauntlet on his right (sword) hand is simple worn leather and cloth. The one on his left hand is a strange black material like the Dark Brotherhood armor, with veins of red running through it from finger to wrist and three horizontal mithral bands crossing the wrist as well. This is enchanted with spell reflection in the way of basically "catching" the energy of incoming spells and returning them back with less power then originally cast.

He gained his enchanted gauntlet when he stumbled upon the ruins of a tower in Skyrim. Inside, he found the slain body of what must have been a powerful wizard. Sensing the powerful magick in the gauntlet he took it, only to read in the wizards notes that the thing was sentient and could not be removed until death. Being sentient it chooses who its master is and when it grows dissatisfied with its current one, it simply ceases to function when the wearer goes to reflect another spell, hopefully killing or defeating its wearer to be passed on. Though not proven, the wizard also said he had extremely bad luck after he put it on and Arnand has come to agree that it causes the wearer to have bad luck sometimes.

Other Items: A journal, map, basic survival gear including Jo'Khart's clothes, spellbook and such.

Personality: Though not shy, some might wish he was as he can be somewhat abrasive with his sarcasm and general rudeness towards women. He is still a good companion as he has a strong sense of loyalty and to the surprise of many, his pride is non-existent. He can go serious however if the moment calls for it but he would still prefer a flagon of ale and a wench in his lap any day as he is quite the womanizer. He is sometimes looked upon as crazy as the gauntlet speaks to him telepathically and Arnand mouthes his telepathic reply often, and is often irritated by the constant intrusions of the gauntlet.

Brief History: A noble High Rock-born lad of the Ashdford family in the eastern part of the Reach. Being in such a tough area, his martial skills were brought up at the same time as the rest of the things he learned as a noble. His family had the unfortunate fate of getting into a small family -on-family war and eventually being destroyed in a raid. Arnand was not in the house that night luckily and when he learned his families fate, he fled to nearby Skyrim with the money he found in his families secret money space. Life was difficult but rewarding as he lived in Skyrim during its massive change with the Confederation though he worked his way south over the years.
In Bruma, he settled down the longest, for nearly seven years working odd jobs and living with several other poor adventurers. Being in town, he soon befriended Jo'Khart to act as some muscle to his diminutive friend. THey have gone separate ways over the years to follow their own goals, but fate brought them back together in Hammerfell.






Belisarius, Rihad Meeting

He smiled politley, and sarcastically, at Athanden but held his response as a woman spoke up. Belisarius hardly cared what she was saying and when she mentioned her ship, Belisarius began a hushed conversation with Dalvus. "Any news on our friend over there?" he asked, indicating the strange man who sat alone and covered. Dalvus shook his head and shrugged without giving a verbal answer. The experienced Dunmer could tell the man practically radiated magicka and he was definitely intrigued but he could not figure out what it was about this man that was so different.

Belisarius frowned then turned back to the conversation, just as Stanet was telling him to proceed. Belisarius bowed his head and turned back to Athanden with an aggravating smile. He really didn't feel like keeping this meeting going forever despite the fact he was enjoying angering the Dunmer across from him.

"I'm sure you and your men fight valiantly." he conceded, giving him a mock-bow from where he sat. He turned back to Stanet. "You will find my men to all be most excellent and versatile fighters, Sir, and you will find that most of them carry a great deal more intelligence then... your average mercenary band." he said, giving the slightest glance to Athanden, a mischievous twinkle in his eye. "As I said before, we are a versatile, self-sufficient group and I hope to speak with you in private after this as I have so many plans to discuss with you already. Do not worry yourself with raiding and such tasks, for your knights are too noble for that I think. Turn my men lose on the Ra'Gada villages and I can assure you the High King will become more confused with his troops movements than an Orc in a magick shop."
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lucile
 
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Joined: Thu Mar 22, 2007 4:37 pm

Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 10:56 am

Athanden, Rihad Mercenary Meeting

Before the mysterious covered mer could reply to Stanet Belisarius spoke up again, a forced smile upon his face,

"I'm sure you and your men fight valiantly." he said as he gave a mocking bow to Athanden. Hmph, this one will be lucky if he doesn't find himself face down in the bay by the end of the night. Thought Athanden as his vicious temper began to ignite, however it was on a spark and Athanden kept his composure on the outside. Belisarius continued his sales pitch to Stanet, arrogance and confidence thick in his voice.

"You will find my men to all be most excellent and versatile fighters, Sir, and you will find that most of them carry a great deal more intelligence then... your average mercenary band." Belisarius shot a quick glance at Athanden. Athanden's temper sparked again as his slightly grinning face faded into an expressionless one with a tinge of aggravation.

"As I said before, we are a versatile, self-sufficient group and I hope to speak with you in private after this as I have so many plans to discuss with you already. Do not worry yourself with raiding and such tasks, for your knights are too noble for that I think. Turn my men lose on the Ra'Gada villages and I can assure you the High King will become more confused with his troops movements than an Orc in a magick shop."

Athanden cleared his throat loudly as to turn the attention away from Belisarius, "I'm sure your group of raiders will do just fine at those things." Said Athanden mocking Belisarius's earlier comment on his mercenaries. Athanden turned to Stanet,

"However I doubt you will find another force in this room that is sufficient enough to meet head on with the Yokudan armies to supplement your main forces. The Crimson Blades are a coalition of four of Eastern Tamriel's largest and most renowned mercenary corps. All six-thousand-two-hundred of my men and mer are well trained veterans, the majority having fought in the wars against Mehrunes Dagon." Athanden gave Belisarius a quick look as a grin came across his face once again,

"You will find that the Crimson Blades would be a very helpful and needed addition to your forces should a large battle take place. Be it flanking, reinforcing, or supplementing your main force we are more than capable of assisting in turning the tide of a battle." Athanden began to sit back down but stood up halfway through.

"However if you feel confident that a group of raiders is all that you should need then I'm sure that the Yokudans would be more than happy to acquire my services."
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OnlyDumazzapplyhere
 
Posts: 3445
Joined: Wed Jan 24, 2007 12:43 am

Post » Fri Jan 07, 2011 1:54 am

Sentinel, The Grand Theater

Hundreds were in attendance, the large theater of Sentinel was built with luxurious elevated boxes and spaces (much like an opera house) for the valued patrons of the plays and for the Imperial Family. Below were the house seats filled with families, various merchants, and vendors selling sweet meats and Jamba, a local brew. The theater bustled with the eager anticipation and movement of its audience, while a more orderly and distinguished procession moved through a reserved passage. The very walls of the theater were lined in golden thread and decor, murals of folk heroes, actual tales of battles long past, and beasts from Yokudan mythology were engraved and inked in a colorful palate. The marble floor echoed the armored footsteps of the immaculately armored Tervola, flanking the High King along with his closest, Wilfred, as well as Xerxes.

The curtains to the box were opened, a Valenwood timber table awaited the party, with plush leather chairs and down filled cushions for support. Monocles and scopes were given on request, but the High King preferred his personal monocle, crystal from Alinor and crafted for the purpose of Cyrodiilian Opera and the Ra Gada Theater.

The Theater Director stood through the other side, in a reverent bow, he was bald and clean shaven, extravagantly dressed in layered Yokudan robes of purple and a glossy black. "Your Imperial Majesty, you do us honor visiting the Theater during a most personal time for you, the Th-a-ss-ad. Your esteemed guests do us honor as well, Anticlertians have always been welcome patrons of the Fine Arts, and some of the most beneficial." he remained in bow, his arms spread out to his side. It was the highest form of respect a Ra Gada could give, an awkward gesture with roots in complete submission though it was to represent reverence in modern times.

The High King gestured for the entourage to take their seats, his arm reaching out for a chair for his wife, while also looking to Wilfred, "Grand Marshall, if you would." He would need the man near him for private discussion. The table hosted a variety of cheeses, freshly baked bread (with the delicious aroma permeating it) as well as texts containing the history of the Theater and Thassad III, candlebras illuminated the area to allow just enough light for the patrons to see each other and move without hurting themselves.

Candles below were beginning to be put out, a sign the play would begin within minutes. Today of all the week was a special treat, Jazbet of Kiel would offer his play on an ancient Redguard folk tale, Lord-Vivec's-Sword-Meeting-With-Cyrus-The-Restless. Earlier in the day's morning, The Tear Which Wept, a Ra Gada story of a Yokudan Ansu being trapped within a soul gem due to foul magic by left handed elves, was met with great success. Much cost and expense were given to ensure the integrity of the festival, and honoring the late High King.

Attendants entered the private balcony, beautiful women though heavily tattooed in Yoku as masters of their craft, something they took much pride in.

The oldest of the four attendants addressed the party, with a younger one (dressed so very similar, the bunch) translating in amazingly flawless Bretic.

"Good evening, tonight we offer an assortment of cheeses, many from Lainlyn and Riverview, a main course of Porterhouse, grilled to order, alongside Lobster Thermidore which consists of the Lobster itself along with a succulent sauce from egg yolk, Menevian Cognac, roasted potatoes with butter, and finished with a fine Breton dessert, Daggerfellian-styled cheesecake. Beverages include the House Wine, Jamba, and Klava. Please enjoy your meal, as well as your show."

Klava was a favorite of the King and how he got by his day, it was something he encountered first in Elinhir, a local coffee put through a filter of eggshells, woodchips, and vanilla beans. Reheated to almost boiling and then poured through a cloth to remove oils. It had become a staple of the Yokudan Empire and was treasured by many as the national drink. Far smoother than coffee.


The Grand Theater, Roxanna

Many would argue that the most majestic building in Sentinel was the Imperial Palace, but in Roxanna's mind there was no question it was the Grand Theater. more often than not the Palace felt more like a prison, although one with every comfort ones heart could desire, it's golden walls and muriels of glory long since past could only soften the rough reality of being "Royalty, and the truth that was title was only another word for another type of bondage. As the Royal procession began entering the theater Roxanna caught herself standing in complete awe and admiration of the establishment; out of all the places in the city, she felt most at home and complete standing the theaters hulking shadows and within its echoing walls. To many, this would be a shock, given her nomadic tribal heritage, but in reality it made the most sense, as the art of poetry and playwright was a major part of Barca society. For as long as she could remember great play and works of poetry were created after every battle won or lost, the epic tale recorded in poems and grandiose forms of acting around a camp fire by those who fought or had witnessed the conflict; The tribal Elders even continued to write and record the living history of the tribe in the form of a massive epic poem that has been in constant recording since the founding of the tribe by the great Amarr Barca.

Within the massive architectual marvel were seats that setted hundreds and a grand stage that could field entire mock battles, putting on a grand spectacle for the rich nobles and the unwashed masses all alike. The most famous of Theater antics and attractions however were not battles, but epic works of art in the forms of morality plays that often featured doomed warrior with good intentions and hapless heroes who meet destruction in their attempts to do good. Today, however, they were treated with something fresh and new but at the same time all too familiar with public, a popular rendition of the famous Lord-Vivec's-Sword-Meeting-With-Cyrus-The-Restless. Taking her husbands hand Roxanna lowered herself into the seat beside her husband as the party maneuvered into positions at the table just before the play began. Shortly after a group of women appeared, attendence to the party, who offered up an amazing display of food that made Roxanna's stomach turn with hunger, the smell alone overpowered the balcony, yet she awaited her husband to make the first move attempting to adhere to 'civilized' etiquette.




Rihad Temple
Lysandra

Lysandra was a bit surprised to hear someone speak to her in Nibenese, before turning around and seeing that it was none other than Crixus Abu Nakute, the Raga author and diplomat she had seen and briefly crossed swords with - so to speak - during the meeting. Seeing Crixus' small bow of respect, she immediately waved Aman away, muttering a silent "Dismissed, knight." before going on to listen to the author greet her in a rather unusual way. He sounded strangely... apologetic about all of this, which suceeded in making the battlemage suspicious.

Crixus might not have showed much during the meeting, but I doubt he's as simple to use as the Barca khan with his temper. Whatever he wants, this doesn't sound like something that would follow that disaster in the keep.

"Mister Abu Nakute, you honour me." Lysandra's voice didn't take on the softness that it possessed during the more formal part of the meeting, but the mocking undertone usually present wasn't there as she returned the small bow. "You might not believe me when I say so, given who I am and who I chose to tie my destiny with, but I am sincerely sorry for this state of affairs that we find ourselves in. Maids of Mara like myself do not desire war. But we are both but tools in the hands of the great ones of Tamriel; eloquent tools, but nonetheless."

Of course, Crixus wouldn't believe her, but that was the case whenever two politicians met - neither believed the other, but it was customary to exchange pleasantries. Lysandra herself didn't see much in common between them, except maybe for a good feeling of what to say and when; that is exactly why she didn't point it out. She wasn't on a quest to aggravate every Yokudan she came in contact with and the aged author was more likely to reveal sooner what exactly was his intention was when beginning this meeting if the Paralictor displayed a willingness to cooperate.

"Perhaps it would be better if we talked in my quarters..? Further from the bustle of the order." The Nibenese motioned towards a door slightly deeper inside the corridor into which she and Aman had been heading before Crixus showed up; behind that door lay Lysandra's room, a humble abode with only a simple bed and a work table, cluttered with things expected of someone in her position - documents, mainly. She wasn't certain, but apparently the room used to belong to one of the priests of the Temple before it was converted; he had lost it long before the battlemage arrived in Rihad, back when she was still in her element, handling the order's affairs in the Imperial City.



Rihad, Temple
Crixus and Lysandra

Crixus gave but a simple nod to Lysandra as she led him past a simple wooden door to an even simpler abode within. The crampt quarters of the Paralictor held little more than a bed, table and chair with the table itself being piled with piles of paperwork' mostly orders and other mundane administrative garble by the looks of it. However crampt the room was, the room brought back a bit of nostalgia for Crixus, bring back memories of his first apartment in the Imperial City when he had began working as a writer for the Black Horse Courier "Though without the rats.." he humorously mused to himself before turning to Lysandra, the hint of a smile behind his beard.

"Let us pretend that you and are friends." he began, motioning towards the table. "Old friends at that!" he continued, taking a seat at the table before producing a flask full of Nordic Mead; a strong alcoholic drink he fell in love with during a visit to Dawn Star. Spoting two metal cups burried beneath a pile of documents the old Ra'Gada poured them a glass each and offered it up to the mage who stood before him.

"Now, my old friend, tell me why you joined the Knights of the Nine?"

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Alina loves Alexandra
 
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Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 5:09 pm

Draken Decumus Vladmirius, The Grand Theater.

Draken had drained yet another precious soul of their life's blood. It was sufficient to call it a "day". With his supper now in his stomach, Draken left the dark room where he had just fed and now wandered out into the streets again. If someone would ever discover the dead bodies, they would surely know it was a vampire. But Draken was smart enough to allow the Selenu to take role of scapegoat while he does his work in Hammefell. And by the time they would be searching for him, assuming they would even bother, Draken would be sailing back to the Heart of the Empire; Cyrodiil. And woe to them if they ever set foot upon Cyrodiil's territory and surpass the borders, they would suffer the swift and unforgiving wrath of the Order. Cyrodiil is a sovereign place with a proud history, it should not be blemished with savages from the ends of the earth.

He casually explored the streets with the grace of a nobleman, but with the mind of a predatory creature of the night. He noticed a heavy group of people herding themselves to a large grand building which could only be the theater. He followed the herd of cattle into the grand building, looking around to make sure he was not being followed. The outside walls were impressive enough, having gold covered floors and doors, but as he entered, his eyes beheld the true beauty of the Grand Theater. He marveled at the richness of the elaborate craftsmanship. The flawless walls depicted ancient battles and fierce bestiary with incomparable recherche and impeccable finesse. Splendid, Draken thought. Many of the people requested scopes and monocles to improve their eyesight for a better viewing, Draken lifted his hand to acquire on just to keep appearances with the cattle. Foods of plenty was brought to the people and he noticed some even sniff the air to capture the scent of the He arrived just in time as the theater director was in mid-speech to the High King.

"...Anticlertians have always been welcome patrons of the Fine Arts, and some of the most beneficial."

The candles began to dim out, Draken concluded that the play would soon begin. He smiled and greeted the various individuals he passed by. He chose the high balcony up top, seating himself down alone. He watched the hundreds of people below otherwise engage in pvssyr he cared not for. He sighed and read the guide to Sentinel again and turned the page to the Theater District. From what was written, the theater often depicted plays of honorable morality and lovable warriors destined to fate. Draken scoffed and shut the book as he crossed his legs and awaited. He heard these things for centuries and it never ceased to bother him. Individuals were meant to embrace passion, a powerful aspect of nature. Strength granted by passion which often leads to power, which inevitably paves the way to victory. Mortals often had this ideal that they have to help others, that they need to be the aiding hand. It's absurd, an anesthetic. The surrounding world proved that survival of the fittest was often the truth. Extinction is a way of the universe, weaker species are replaced by stronger ones. And Draken saw himself and his kind as the strongest species.

The mortals were at the bottom of the food chain. That is why the secret battle of immortals waged in Cyrodiil. That is why the rival clans were rooted out and destroyed as the Order of Cyrodilic vampires reaped their rewards of victory! By ousting all other pathetic excuses for vampire tribes, the Order became the only and most powerful clan in Cyrodiil. And that happened not by forging peace with the barbaric and the savage, not by signing any treaties of mercy and pity, but by conflict and strife. Victory is held by the hands of the strong and the names of the strong are etched in the pillars of history. The weak do not deserve to be mentioned, but simply frowned upon as a reminder that the strongest survive.

If one sought to aid all that sufferered in the world, they would only weaken themselves and weaken the helpless. It is the struggles within, when fought and conquered on their own, that yields the strongest of rewards. The noble hero would be a thief that robbed the struggle from them, they otherwise cheapened it. If one is to be strong in this world, then they must dispense with mercy and sacrifice and recognize the true value in allowing the weak to fight their own battles and wars. And when they triumph, when they become powerful, they will be even stronger for the victory.

The Empire is weakened by the hordes of the Daedric ilk. And the provinces take advantage. If they become stronger, if they somehow successfully topple the Empire, then by all means they deserve that power. But if the Yokudans pursue their blind ideals of helping the weak and the poor in such manner, their victory will be short lived and their destiny will prove to be nothing but failure and decadence. Draken was curious in learning what these people taught. He was sure that they wanted to be free from the Empire's grasp, but there was something much deeper to that. He settled himself in his seat and clasped his hands together, intertwining his cold fingers as he awaited the current play to unfold; Lord-Vivec's-Sword-Meeting-With-Cyrus-The-Restless. He hoped by the patrons Molag and Clavicus that this would not be another useless play of twisted morality.
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TWITTER.COM
 
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Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 1:18 pm

Rihad Temple
Lysandra

The battlemage raised an eyebrow as Crixus began by asking her to pretend they were old friends, looking even more surprised than she usually did with her already elevated eyebrows. Certainly an unorthodox start. But I can afford to play along. Lysandra sat down, setting the glass of mead down before her. She'd accepted it only out of politeness - the combined burden of a diplomat, a priest and a battlemage meant she very rarely drank and preffered it to stay that way. But if it made the aged author feel more at ease and open up faster, she'd humour him, taking a slight sip of the drink. Even as someone who didn't drink, she could tell that it was a strong beverage, which did little to endear it to her.

"Well, mister Nakute." She leaned on one of her hands, tracing the arched shape of the dragon tattooed on her face with her index finger. "As I have mentioned, I am a maid of Mara; there may be little left to suggest so now, given my current... profession, I suppose you could call it? Battlemages are rarely associated with the church of Mara, but I remain with the goddess' name as my family name." Lysandra smiled slightly. As always, her smile didn't seem complete; it wasn't obviously insincere, but sharper people tended to note there was something off about it in particular - rather than being something unique to this expression, it was merely more obvious when the Nibenese smiled than anytime else, but whatever 'it' was, it was constantly present, though she did a good job of disguising it.

"Yes, I have been with the Church for much of my life; the early half, and now again. Of course, I wasn't taught in warmagicks by the healers of the Nine - I served in the Legion as a battlemage, before the order began reforming under the banner of the Divine Crusader and Pelinal's relics, when I felt the pull of my childhood teachings again and joined the then-scarce ranks of the Knights. I am but a Paralictor by now, but the order is about serving the Divines, not personal gain; and the chaptermasters have made it clear to me that they believe my talents help me better serve the Nine as what I am now rather than a Lictor. The humble are not without an edge over the rest, so to speak."

"And what of you, mister Nakute?" Lysandra leaned backwards slightly. "How does one go from being a famous author in Cyrodiil to the advisor of the Yokudan High King?"

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Joe Alvarado
 
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Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 6:00 pm

Sentinel, Theater

"How fares the reorganisation of the Yokudan army? I trust the Anticlerian troops we provided are doing their duty well, despite not being quite in the shape my great captal and I would like them to be." Wilfred asked as he helped himself to the wine, made from a local vintage, delicious but not of Cyrodiil quality. As a servant poured steaming klava into a tea cup for the King, he stirred it ever so gently to blend flavor.

He pointed to a servant, "Lobster thermidore and main course if you would."

"WEST Army's marksmen are quite impressive from what I have heard, their drills only months before left much in the form of wanting. General Kong ensures me our pavise arbalesters fulfill the Imperial standard procedure of two shots in a minute. Perhaps you would accompany me to drills later this week?" he took a sip from his coffee before continuing, "Sentinel's military still leave much in the way of discipline concerning movement, but the Imperial Army is outstanding." it was true, Sentinel's Army was once mostly comprised of militia, most professional troops leaving the city for WEST ARMY where pay was better and they were on constant campaign...rumors even told of the best soldiers within getting handpicked by Echani of the Barca, to where they went...none knew.

"We owe much to you and Manfred."

A nvde Raga, wearing nothing save a rather large mask leapt onto the stage, a small drum in the crook of his arm. Fire bellowed from both ends of the stage. He was the Storyteller. His mask was a serpentine man, bearded with tusks.

"Gather, sit. Drink to Papa and tell Morwha you’re sorry for what you’ve done wickedly this day save for the customary curses allowed towards our enemies, the fair skins and the green skins and the sataks that roll in the dirt with no skins at all. Most importantly, listen, here’s another tale of Sura of the Bend’r Mark, the Maverick-Sword of the Crowns, called Cyrus in the tongue of the Septims."

The audience roared with applause.

The drum was beat with much enthusiasm as he pranced around. The waves of the mock ocean crashing behind him, the noises were made and sounded so real. But how? The actors atop the boat continued to look onto the distance.

"Mind you, this story isn’t necessarily true, for no tale of Cyrus the Restless is true in its entire, and yet that has never really mattered. Indeed, you’ll come to see that sometimes stories that aren’t necessarily true can still sometimes win the day.Now these were the days after the Tiber War had come to Hammerfell with its banners and phalanxes and its skill at sea, which came to nothing except for treaty, for no empire of men may rule the sons and daughters of Yokuda. We are superior in every way to all the other races of this world and they know it. The Hoon Ding guides us; all others can Make Way.That is, unless those others do not come from this world at all, and are instead spirits of the Far Shores or the In-Between-- against these gods and demons and mad shapers, all men can be humbled. But is that not the point? Different rules apply to gods and demons and mad shapers.Of these, I talk now of the demon-king of the Star-Wounded East, Vehk and Vehk the Circle Talker, anon Ansu-Gurleht in Yoku, the God of Makes Us Women, whose powers are so terrible that even Redguards must bend to His will, though foreign and thus benighted; if He comes, we run until we can’t. There is no shame in this; we are allowed to run from disaster; witness the loss of Yokuda, where our running was blessed by windy Tava who filled our sails with escape. And Ansu-Gurleht is surely disaster.But there was one of us that didn’t run from Him. Cyrus never ran from anything except for the killing of Hakan, and that was so long ago that it doesn’t really count."

The Drums were once again beat...

The Storyteller moved off stage.


"LAND HO!"

Cyrus turned to his men, the actor did his best to fit the description of the Maverick that was Cyrus, yet the man who existed was surely over-romanticized, as evidenced by the over exaggerated movements he showed. Displaying the confidence of a brave warrior, his legs were lifted to look almost military in march, such was the way of a Sentinel play.

"Coyle, stay with the ship and start the trim. If the locals come, you speak the language."


Haroun turned to Wilfred, court tradition completely gone, "Wilfred, in weeks we will march on the Forebear confederation, clashing with the Knights of the Nine will be inevitable."
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Devin Sluis
 
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Post » Fri Jan 07, 2011 2:34 am

Sentinel
Wilfred du Lombard

"WEST Army's marksmen are quite impressive from what I have heard, their drills only months before left much in the form of wanting. General Kong ensures me our pavise arbalesters fulfill the Imperial standard procedure of two shots in a minute. Perhaps you would accompany me to drills later this week?" Haroun responded, taking a sip of coffee before carrying on. "Sentinel's military still leave much in the way of discipline concerning movement, but the Imperial Army is outstanding."

"That is excellent to hear, your majesty. It would be my honour to attend the Yokudan drills." Wilfred responded, simply nodding in silence to the comment that followed. Some saw the alliance between Anticlere and Sentinel as beneficial to only one party and rather strange, but the truth was, although Anticlere was not much more than a city-state, there were things it could offer to the Yokudan Empire, and as time went on there would be more and more of these things - the construction of the Flyte Arsenal of Anticlere was a matter that many had noticed. Though the arsenal was far from completed, it promised to be truly spectacular, the largest state-owned manufactory in High Rock, the rival of some of the Third Empire's foundries that powered its expansion and a clear sign that the city was far from the insignificant capital of a lorddom it once was.

The words that followed, however, were much less pleasant. However many times he told himself he was here precisely for those very words, Wilfred couldn't stop wishing the High King had better news to share; the war with the Forebears and the Knights of the Nine was a very unpleasant inevitability, and not only to the Yokudan Empire. Although they were yet to openly act together, their alliance was well known and the association would be quickly made - if the Yokudans were at war with the order, then Anticlere was in on it as well.

For some time, the grand marshall remained silent. It seemed as though he was taking in the play unfolding before him, but it wasn't entirely so; many thoughts were swirling in his head, the young Breton wondering where to begin.

"That is... most unfortunate, but not unexpected. The moment the Confederation formed, it steered itself right at Sentinel, the collision was inevitable. It wasn't looked forward to in Anticlere... much more so after the Knights of the Nine got involved. You are well aware, your majesty, that our city is devoted to the goddess Mara and by extension to the Cyrodiilic church of the Goddess of Grace; your conflict with the order is a very ideologically troubling issue for us. The knights are so tightly knit with the Cult, it might as well officially be its army, many of the knightly orders devoted to the protection of the Nine have become redundant already, even with the order still rather restricted to Cyrodiil."

"As you are aware, my great captal bears the title of the Mara-blessed king... It carries with it certain implications. Our emissaries have had some dealings with the order; few and far in-between, but dealings nonetheless. This approaching war has been on the minds of the influentials of our city for a long while now - the knights aren't stupid, they're not only renowned warriors, Anticlere will not go unmentioned for long. Your majesty has his own war to fight, and I fear we shall have our own, as I doubt the order will hesitate to mobilise all resources for this war, and that includes political sway within Cyrodiil and religious influence. We will try to engage them on both fronts; the Flyte has been trying to forge political contacts within the Imperial City, but though the Elder Council doesn't seem to look on our silent independence disapprovingly, Anticlerians are far from having the influence of the Knights of the Nine. And while your majesty might not be concerned about the sway the knights carry with the followers of the Nine - not many live in Hammerfell - that front might be more important than it could seem at first sight."

"Of course, our brothers in High Rock all worship the Nine Divines, one deity or another. The Imperial Cult still holds much sway with them; but none of our neighbours would probably dare engage either us or the Empire, not with the brittle balance of power currently in High Rock. But their words might find ears willing to listen in not only the Imperial City or Anvil, but also in the Nordic Confederation as well. Thankfully, the king and Moot of Solitude agree on at least one thing - rare a thing as that may be, as we are beginning to find out - and they don't intend to allow the Cult and, by extension, the order extensive influence in their lands. That is not to say they will not find support there, but I will stress the importance of warning the king and Moot about such elements to the Flyte so that it might be brought up during our negotiations. And, of course, while the High Priest of Mara will not openly speak against the Church of Talos or the order, I believe the fact Anticlere is the only more important player on the grand stage that supports the Mother Goddess and her mundane abode before the other Divines will make him more open to reason."

"At the very least, I believe Anticlere will be able to cushion some of the political shock that will come out of this, and it may be used to sway the Councillors who believe the order to be a threat to our side and gain more influence in the Imperial City that way. That is the contribution we can offer - diplomacy rather than real arms. As the grand marshall, I'm afraid the Anticlerian army isn't ready yet and marching out to the field openly would, I fear, aid your war effort little and do quite a bit of harm elsewhere instead. So long as Anticlere isn't an active combatant, we can preach wisdom and look for allies where your majesty's representatives might find none."

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Nathan Risch
 
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Post » Fri Jan 07, 2011 2:00 am

Meeting Room, Rihad Keep

The Knight Commander patiently listened to the competitive jabs and boasts of Anthanden and Belisarius, weighing their relative merits. He let no emotion show on his face; mercenaries could jump on desperation or fear like wild animals to make a sale, and he didn't want to deal with their pressures.

"...Turn my men lose on the Ra'Gada villages and I can assure you the High King will become more confused with his troops movements than an Orc in a magick shop." finished Belisarius with his characteristic confidence. Good. That's exactly what we need. We'll need a demonstration after this meeting, but he and his men seem promising. We need people to disrupt their war efforts, not provide heavy troops.

Athanden replied with a speech about the relative merits of his own band. They seemed fairly useful, assuming the Dunmer wasn't embellishing the truth more than most mercenaries did. 6,200 men and mer would be quite helpful, especially considering the numerical disadvantage the Knights of the Nine faced in the upcoming war. Furthermore, well-trained troops provided a nice contrast to the levies and militias of the Rihad Confederacy that would doubtless make up a large portion of the order's forces. But the Crimson Blades didn't seem to be without fault. First, they were heavy troops, a role that the Knights of the Nine themselves could easily handle. Second, something about the Dunmer's pride and excellent equipment screamed 'expensive.'

"However if you feel confident that a group of raiders is all that you should need then I'm sure that the Yokudans would be more than happy to acquire my services." added the Dunmer leader before he finally sat down. Damn. He has a point. If his troops are anywhere near as good as he claims they are, that could compromise one of our larger advantages.

Terentius stood up and spoke to the competing mercenary leaders.

"Both of you should meet me with your troops outside the city's main gates tomorrow afternoon. I'd like to see demonstrations from your forces if I'm to consider hiring them." he said. "Does anyone else have a sales pitch to make?"
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Kayleigh Mcneil
 
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Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 11:35 am

Belisarius, Rihad Meeting

"Oh come now, there is no need to be so bitter. I'm sure if we teamed up, we could take on the entire Empire by ourselves and let none stand in our way!" he declared, chuckling as he finally got a reaction out of the Dunmer. He did not doubt Athandens words, and knew his men were likely well trained and experienced and in open and honorable battle, Belisarius' men would likely be hard pressed against them. Belisarius smirked at his own thoughts. Battle didn't always have to be fair.

He turned back to Stanet with a small frown on his face at the man's suggestion.

"Ahhh, yes well that may be a problem you see." he began, trying to not seem confident that he had just got the job. "My men are camped in the mountains almost a days hard march out. My friend here," he said, patting Dalvus on the shoulder, "can recall himself to their camp right away but like I said, they won't be here by tomorrow at this time at the earliest."

"However, I have a small contingent of men here with me, waiting outside the city. I can assure you they perfectly represent what all of my men look like and you'll not find a better looking bunch." he added, thowing a wink at the pirate woman. He had several different acts when he came to these meetings and he truly enjoyed the 'swaggering mercenary' bit he was playing now. So much calmer as it tended to help his anger problems when he acted cocky to other people. His anger usually got him in trouble.

"After this then, we can meet outside the city while my men are sent for by Dalvus here, and then we can talk in private about future operations." he said with a smile to the Knight. He turned to Athanden. "You can come too." he added, almost as an afterthought and in a clearly condescending tone. "If that is everything then, I can send my most useful mage back to my camp right away."

In truth, he worried that the man would discover he only had about two hundred locals under his command, which would likely not be a pleasing number to the knight. But at least half of the knew the lands around Lainbon and Gilane as previous homes and would serve him well if Stanet accepted what he had planned for his future endeavours. Without waiting for a response, he nodded to Dalvus he rose from his seat, bowed slightly to Stanet and walked briskly from the room. He stood out in the entrance hall for a half second and then was gone in a blink of light.
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Marquis deVille
 
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Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 8:19 pm

Sentinel, Theater

Haroun hid hand within fist, and rested his bearded chin upon his knuckles, listening to Wilfred. It was as he thought, and what he hoped for and expected. He knew Manfred could not survive an open war against enemies of the Knights of the Nine, neither politically nor in actual battle. The Captal Flyte had to play every card perfectly if he wished Anticlere to grow prosperous and keep his own head. In many ways he played a very dangerous game in a friendship with Haroun, his life and that of his son's as well as the fate of the city state could very well be extinguished by the larger power brokers within High Rock. Thus, Manfred was meant to be commended on his guile and political savvy for being able to avoid outright confrontation during such tumultuous times. His realm would undergo the metamorphosis Haroun wished to bring Hammerfell to once these wars were settled.

The Elden Yokeda spoke lowly, "I could give a damn about troops Wilfred, I tell you so Manfred doesn't get drawn and quartered because the High Priest of the Divines makes an enemy out of your state. Its important that you all be prepared." his usual courtesy and etiquette were gone, for now it was Haroun speaking to Wilfred over matters that were given so much discretion and circle talking.

"Still, if the political blow can be softened then I'd ask that what can be done, be done. Put whispers into the ears of the Moot and King that Hammerfell is in dire need of timber, negotiations over price with the Dominion are going sourly...perhaps the promise of coin will lubricate future negotiation and we can find a few Lords within the Moot willing to speak on our behalf if they would profit from it. The High Priest on the other hand, would strictly be your concern, perhaps his own reach within the Imperial City would be able to fashion the thought that this is not a war against Cyrodiil or its instutions, but merely a mop up of the war of the Last Wolves. Ra Gada killing Ra Gada, and therefor a Hammerfellian concern, if pressure could reach the Knight Commander of the Hammerfell chapter to return to Cyrodiil or cease in a war between 'savages' then he would have to fight both on the battlefield and political front just to keep this war up." he set his klava down, looked over to his wife for a bit admiring her for but a moment then quickly returning to the now, leaning towards Wilfred, "Reports sent in have stated Anvil is the major benefactor behind the Forebear confederation, honestly a pain in healing any rift after the war with the Empire, although it is its own foreign state...Cyrodiil is the best immediate buffer against the Dominion, and one I wouldn't see completely decimated. They will be needed in the times to come, but they are doing more damage then need be. Whispers in the ears of those who would listen Wilfred, whispers in the ears." his words were matter of fact and spoken cruelly and expectant, his tone not grave but calm. This was what he and Manfred had in common, calculators and planners, who knew what had to be done for the most efficient results.

Concern for his friend came near, "It would be imprudent for Anticlere to show any involvement other than what has been discussed, you've a keen sense for what needs to be done and I'd hope to see it so."

ooc: will have a post concerning Gilane and more of the play to come.
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Pixie
 
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Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 2:11 pm

Sentinel
Wilfred du Lombard

"I do not believe our city is in any danger of being on the receiving end of another crusade. The Knights of the Nine have much influence in Cyrodiil, sure, but not enough to rile up the Imperials to seek war against a small city-state on the other end of Tamriel, particularly one who has the support of one of the churches and bears a blessed crown." Wilfred replied, taking a sip of wine. "And while some of our neighbours might look at the prosperity of Anticlere jealously, none of our immediate neighbours is powerful enough to be a real threat and, as I've mentioned, the balance of power is as brittle as ever. Rumours spread of Orsinium speaking against Wayrest, if that's true then Elysana will find her throne getting very unsteady; if Daggerfall will want to exploit that, it won't be interested in conflicts against Anticlere, especially not at the behest of the Imperial Cult, who already looks on that kingdom with great disfavour. And Anticlere's alliance with the none-too-distant Yokudan Empire keeps thoughts of war away from the minds of many of my great captal's peers."

"So long as we do not openly engage, Anticlere should go directly untouched, but our name will be mentioned, for better or for worse." That was true, the grand marshall realised it all too well; this war wasn't just a chance to eliminate a major obstacle on the path to an united Hammerfell, it was also an opportunity for Anticlere to prove itself as a political power. With the Yokudans unspoken for in the Imperial City, the small city-state would have to be the advocate for peace and withdrawing support for the Forebears, and while the Elder Council did not mean nearly as much as it used to, the Legions were still formidable and Cyrodiil wasn't to be ignored.

"There are several who will listen to our words, not all in the Elder Council believe in revenge or pursuing further conflicts with the ex-provinces of the Empire. Some councillors realize that while the Imperial City stood even against the Daedra hordes, it will not go untaken for long if the remnant continues on this self-destructive path; they would be willing to try and make their peers see that the Ruby Ranks have dwindled and the destiny of the world isn't decided by Nibenese and Colovians alone anymore. And while it might be difficult, perhaps Solitude could be convinced to lend its influence to our cause as well; reasoning not that they should support your kingdom, no, it's too soon for such a step, but that the Empire needs to be made to realize that it has no more provinces and that this doesn't apply only to Hammerfell, but Skyrim as well."

Wilfred stopped for a moment, drinking a bit more wine. He might have been young, but he was Manfred's favourite for a reason, the Anticlerian penchant for competition creating a sharp man. He realized full well that this war wasn't to be treated lightly; both newfound countries always balanced on the brink, the loss of a conflict could doom either or both of them. "It will be difficult to persuade the Nordic Confederation of anything, however, as we are starting to discover. The Moot and the king are at each other's throat - while the nobles of the Moot can boast the support of the major nobles of Solitude, the king is strictly against giving them any ground and tries to claim power as possible for himself, and he is backed by the jungher, the less individualy powerful but more numerous of the nobles. And since much of what is decided in the Confederation is decided in Solitude, navigating the waters of that city is vital to gaining the Nords' support for anything."

"It is too early to tell, and I don't know enough to make a reasonable guess about anything yet. But we will do what we can. It would not be unlike the church of Mara to preach peace and forgiveness for past enemies, so we might have found you an ally of sorts in the least likely of places, but countering the influence of the church of Talos will be difficult, and Cult politics, treacherous as they are, aren't the only thing to watch out for. Just as those who don't support the order exist, I'm sure there are several in positions of power who don't appreciate Anvil being its own independant state and hindering the Empire's trade in the west and contesting its influence in the heartland, even if that is done silently for now. If all these groups can be played right, Anticlere - and by extension, the Yokudan cause - might not find itself as vastly outnumbered there as the knights would think. The Imperial City will become a battlefield for us, all too soon."

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His Bella
 
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Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 1:29 pm

Meeting Room, Rihad Keep

Damn. He has a point. If his troops are anywhere near as good as he claims they are, that could compromise one of our larger advantages.

Terentius stood up and spoke to the competing mercenary leaders.

"Both of you should meet me with your troops outside the city's main gates tomorrow afternoon. I'd like to see demonstrations from your forces if I'm to consider hiring them." he said. "Does anyone else have a sales pitch to make?"



Belisarius, Rihad Meeting

"Oh come now, there is no need to be so bitter. I'm sure if we teamed up, we could take on the entire Empire by ourselves and let none stand in our way!" he declared, chuckling as he finally got a reaction out of the Dunmer. He did not doubt Athandens words, and knew his men were likely well trained and experienced and in open and honorable battle, Belisarius' men would likely be hard pressed against them. Belisarius smirked at his own thoughts. Battle didn't always have to be fair.

He turned back to Stanet with a small frown on his face at the man's suggestion.

"Ahhh, yes well that may be a problem you see." he began, trying to not seem confident that he had just got the job. "My men are camped in the mountains almost a days hard march out. My friend here," he said, patting Dalvus on the shoulder, "can recall himself to their camp right away but like I said, they won't be here by tomorrow at this time at the earliest."

"However, I have a small contingent of men here with me, waiting outside the city. I can assure you they perfectly represent what all of my men look like and you'll not find a better looking bunch." he added, thowing a wink at the pirate woman. He had several different acts when he came to these meetings and he truly enjoyed the 'swaggering mercenary' bit he was playing now. So much calmer as it tended to help his anger problems when he acted cocky to other people. His anger usually got him in trouble.

"After this then, we can meet outside the city while my men are sent for by Dalvus here, and then we can talk in private about future operations." he said with a smile to the Knight. He turned to Athanden. "You can come too." he added, almost as an afterthought and in a clearly condescending tone. "If that is everything then, I can send my most useful mage back to my camp right away."

In truth, he worried that the man would discover he only had about two hundred locals under his command, which would likely not be a pleasing number to the knight. But at least half of the knew the lands around Lainbon and Gilane as previous homes and would serve him well if Stanet accepted what he had planned for his future endeavours. Without waiting for a response, he nodded to Dalvus he rose from his seat, bowed slightly to Stanet and walked briskly from the room. He stood out in the entrance hall for a half second and then was gone in a blink of light.


Athanden, Rihad, Meeting

Athanden's face grew bitter as Belisarius continued his mocking. This swit will regret his actions soon enough, I'll make sure he sees the end up my sword before this war is over. Athanden's ruthless temper had began to take control of him, Aryn realized this and placed his hand on Athanden's shoulder as he took his seat.

Aryn whispered softly so that only Athanden could hear him, "Athanden, this is not the time for an argument. Let him mock you, he wish he could take back his words once he sees the might of the Crimson blades."

Athanden nodded, he knew that his temper got the best of him some times. On occasion it had ended up quite badly, the result being Aryn having to find a placed to dump a corpse that had been decapitated. Athanden pulled his pipe from a leather pouch on his waist and packed it with tobacco, a small spark from his fingers ignited the crumbled leaves. Even though Athanden was not learned in magick he still knew a few small unimportant things about it, mostly because of the fact that it was natural for Dunmer to have an affinity for the arcane arts.

Athanden took a puff of the pipe, the smoke curled around his face as it calmed his nerves. Stanet spoke to Athanden and Belisarius once again, "Both of you should meet me with your troops outside the city's main gates tomorrow afternoon. I'd like to see demonstrations from your forces if I'm to consider hiring them." he said. "Does anyone else have a sales pitch to make?"

Belisarius quickly came back with an excuse as to why his men could not be here at that time, Hmph, and the knights are to trust this man to fight for them when he doesn't even show up prepared? Then Belisarius turned to Athanden and once again tried to agitate him,

"You can come too."

Athanden stood from his chair as he took another puff from his pipe, "Very well, I will attend another meeting." Athanden then turned to Stanet, "I presume that you will pass word to the Harbor-master that my ships will be unloading throughout the early morning? It will take a few hours for my troops to assemble outside the city. Or would you prefer that I unload my men onto the coast like using our smaller vessels?"
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MISS KEEP UR
 
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Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 1:32 pm

Sentinel, Theater

Haroun turned to face Wilfred directly, "Its not a crusade I would worry about. Its promises amongst shared enemies, snakes who still hide in their hole. Be aware of the Beasts who are absent claws, yet still bare fangs. Regardless of what your personal feeling is Wilfred, the Elden Yokeda requests your men plant seeds in the ear of those who would have something to gain, yes a far cry from any formal negotiation, but the news of Sentinel in need of trade with another entity would make those to profit more willing for future discussion." his eyes returned to the play as he relaxed further into his chair.

"And perhaps it is simply the worried mumbling of a...friend. I wish Manfred tread carefully, Anticlere's nascent prosperity could be put out as if candle light, as could the Yokudan Empire's. You Anticlerites have always been the best of mediators, I have faith in you."

The stage dimmed as the actors ran from a temple, large fist sized Opal in hand, out from the shadow walked a figure, lightly armored, the rest nvde.

Gasps from the crowd, cries of awe and excitement marked Vivec's entrance to have what was expected. The Ansu-Gurhelet had arrived. The actor was a Redguard who colored himself blue and gold, painted by the best and spackled in bits of bright flux and glitter, his head bathed in fire resistant balms, with a coat of flammable musk ignited in flame. His nose, brow, and ears were pierced, ears which were falsely elongated and pointed.

His legs lifted, into the lotus position he went, suspended by thin mythril cables the actor slowly made his way towards Cyrus. The crowd clapped heavily.

"If you know how I die, is this battle it?"

"No."

"Good to know-"

Cyrus rushed Vivec who swiftly turned, the sounds of a wooden sword striking somewhere else in the theater ringed aloud. Cyrus fell to the ground, feigning injury.


The stage went dim, representing the end of the scene.


Gilane

Jarod smirked at the brash Imperial, "Well, regardless of how you got the experience, fact is we could use someone who knows things most Ra Gada dont and is still familiar with the lay of the land. Truth be told its gone to more than just caravans disappearing, we lost three villages, including Hawk's eye...which is one of those affiliated with those Ayuub types, which means that the matter is a bit more serious. The village didn't have real deal warriors in it, but still..the men should have been more than capable. Don't know if you know what that affiliation means around here, but to us it means that while whatever is behind this is careful, it doesn't give a damn who it touches. I can give a map marking the location of the village and last known missing caravan, but be careful about who you mention all this information too, lot of people would kill you over this information. They want to be the ones to claim the reward. I'm promising four hundred nobles to the group who can give me more info on whats going on. ...things beyond my station have forced me to keep the city guard within the city, but I can provide you with some help."

The large Raga reached into his desk pulling an envelope, scribbling a few words on it and signing. Approaching Marius he handed the letter, "Take this to the Medusa's Gaze, local tavern, look for a Redguard named Raspert. Hand him this letter, be there within the next hour.
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RaeAnne
 
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Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 5:58 pm

Draken Decumus Vladmirius, Grand Theater of Sentinel.

Draken had his utmost attention to the play that was unfolding. The key characters presented was a well known deity in Morrowind, his named was Vivec. The other was a personae known among the redguards as Cyrus the pirate. He curiously watched as a naked man jumped into the scene with an instrument. He began to speak words that would spawn the introduction to the play, the undead Imperial listened intently and studied later on as Cyrus and Vivec engaged in a duel with Cyrus feigning in the end. He couldn't help but remember his first use of a weapon when he was but a child that molded into the nature of men and women in general. He was frightened, afraid, scared. But proverbs of meaning granted him reason; A boy will draw strength from fear. But a man shall draw strength from hate.

Draken tried to muster centuries of philosophy taught by those in his station. He dwelled and depended on his own code of morality and way of living that would often be questioned by mortals. Everything in the world is sublimated into a frozen hatred characterized by its focused anolytic nature and its detachment from any external persona or system of morality. To deny fear is to be ignorant, too deny a passion, a source of power. Manipulate it, control it, revel in it, like any other emotion. To do otherwise is to allow it to control the individual. Courage is the ability to act in spite of fear. Cowardice is to act because of it. As arrogance is to move without considering it. Fear indeed would be a useful tool, were it not for the physio-psychological changes it causes within the body, anger and hatred allow for a controlled-fight-response. Whereas the fight & flight response doesn't leave enough room for rationality, hence why fear is the destroyer of mind. Fear is something Draken sough to push past, a wall to run through. A crutch. Fear is the perfect protection, to move past it is to move into a harsh and cruel reality. Hatred without fear, is moving into that reality with all fire blazing, in life there should always be that nagging doubt in the back of the mind, but in the end, after the individual mastered it, he should never allow it to moderate his motions. A vampire with fear will take power from his superiors, mortal or immortal, and seek to consolidate it, ensuring his subjects are weaker than him, killing political rivals and exploiting all those around him. Through fear there is conformity, through conformity there is civilization, through civilization culture expands, and through culture life has eternal meaning. And if is to last even a month in a cutthroat nation such as Hammerfell, he had to learn to anticipate everything around him.

While his eyes were glaring at the actors, his eyes were narrowed far above ahead of him. The leader of the Yokudans, the High King, Haroun. He was surrounded by individuals, including his wife Roxanna who was not presently communicating with him. Instead he was speaking to another person. Eyes rarely ever setting upon the play. Draken's lip curled in annoyance as he wished himself there in approximation to eavesdrop on their conversation. Draken fumed and turned back to the play to witness a bit of redguard history, if this was at all accurate. The history books mentioned otherwise. He knew little of Cyrus as he played a minor role his his eyes. But Draken understood much of Vivec. He was partially proud of his own "culture" to be shared within itself and even jealous of the redguards history be widspread. Of course, Draken's true culture and understanding of his ancient order was shrouded in veil. So ancient that the name itself was lost in history. He did, however, have legendry and the shadowy recollections of his ancestors. Such was the existence of the Lords of the age that knowledge is made up of bright points of light glittering across a wide map of darkness. He could gain tantalizing details about the history of this lare and that one, but already they had spread out and claimed their own domains throughout Cyrodiil. With no central source, some can only work out a conjecture formed from biased and scattered accounts. It’s no different mapping a countryside by the light of a few scattered candles.

To this day, the Order is not made public to Tamriel. It should remain that way. Draken was but one of the members of a high circle of entrepreneurs, nobles and politicians, some that even whisper in the minds of the High Council, directing a part of their moves as a player in a board game would so. Draken's mission was but simple. Remain in Hammerfell and see if the Yokudans and the Knights of the Nine win their battle against one another. As the only member of the Order in Hammerfell, it was his responsibility to report back with his own accounts of the occurrences. But he could only do so much. The king did promise an audience with him in the future, but that alone would not be Draken's only source of information. Draken shifted in his seat and continued watching the play, but with prying eyes that seldom ventured to the balcony above.
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Arrogant SId
 
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Post » Thu Jan 06, 2011 10:07 pm

Rihad, Keep

The Knight Commander spoke. "Well, Mr. Vorandaril, I can't say the Knights of the Nine have much in the way of arcane resources. Although if there's anything in particular you need, I suppose I could make an arrangement with the Mages Guild to acquire it for you. That is, if you're really a master of Mysticism. Stay around after the meeting is over and give me a demonstration of your abilities."

He wants a demonstration of my mastery of mysticism, does he? I suppose a telekinetic display would be best, unless they'd prefer I demonstrate they'd be willing to lend a battlemage to help me demonstrate my anti-magical skills. They'd never trust me enough to allow a demonstration of my absorb spells.

It looked like Vorandaril would have plenty of time for contemplating a response; the Knight Commander had turned his attention back to the squabbling mercenary leaders. Momentarily observing them, he couldn't help but notice the hostility. I suppose it's important for them to be good at selling themselves over others, but it sounds like those two are ready to fight each other for a contract. Hopefully things wouldn't get out of hand. Although if it did, it would be an excellent opportunity for him to showcase his magical prowess.

Turning back inwards, he began to contemplate what he wanted. Primarily he wanted texts on using enchanting to create lasting magical barriers. But his contemplation of a demonstration had reminded him of another side project that he would like to develop further; that of knowledge absorption. He had experimented with rats, and although they were much more intelligent than he had given them credit for, it paled in comparison to the minds of men and mer. An often-neglected branch of mysticism usually used to bolster one's magical or martial knowledge at the expense of the enemy's, knowledge absorption had great potential if developed. If they would allow him to experiment on Yokudan prisoners, he could gather more from them than the most skilled interrogator. And in combat, few things could be more distressing to one than having their warrior skills or magical knowledge sapped from their minds. Perhaps with more research he could even absorb from an Ansei the knowledge and skills to form a Shehai. Such spells would only be temporary for the caster, and would immediately dissipate upon the victim's death, leaving behind only vague memories, but it did little to diminish the utility of such magic.

I think the Knight Commander will find my research prospects as beneficial to him as they will to me.
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Alexander Lee
 
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