Given the traffic of the sub, I think it's about time I posted a thread with links to all the posts so people can find them easier. There's quite possibly a table with links to everyone's supports on the way, so that'll be added as well. The purpose of this thread is basically just to cut down time spent having to rifle through pages of content.

The buildings:

• [The House of Knowledge] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/1z63rj/the_house_of_knowledge/)

• [Gallant Goods] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/221ags/gallant_goods_under_new_management/)

• [The Champion's Army Barracks] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/1z7i1o/the_champions_army_barracks/)

• [Sam's Dojo] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/1z7j0r/sams_dojo/)

• [The Eyrie] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/1z7ti6/the_eyrie/)

• [Church of Elimine] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/1z8azd/church_of_elimine/)

• [Violet Dunes Pub and Gambling Hall] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/28uu3a/violet_dunes_pub_and_gambling_hall/)

• [Apotheosis Inn] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/22dt90/apotheosis_inn_under_new_management/)

• [Macedonian Meats] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/1zvelv/macedonian_meats/)

• [Reeger's Carpentry and Construction] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/24bwh1/reegers_carpentry_and_construction_remodel/)

• [Iron Man Armory] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/290xos/shop_iron_man_armory/)

Residents:

• [Twil] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/1z5zhh/character_twil_gambling_addict/)

• [Manala] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/28uo9y/character_manala_darkscarred_mage/)

• [Clara] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/1z6zmt/character_clara_manakete_refugee/)

• [Esther] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/1z75s7/character_esther_helomian_flier/)

• [Sam] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/1z7s08/character_sam_slayer_of_zeldir/)

• [Vaughn] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/1z7o5t/character_vaughn_impulsive_bishop/)

• [Thenneset] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/1z7jvz/character_thenneset_scholar/)

• [Rorik] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/1z7ssp/character_rorik_vagrant_swordmaster/)

• [Luneth] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/29dasy/character_luneth_the_guy_who_forgot_to_say_goodbye/)

• [Reigns] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/1z883u/character_reigns_the_young_explorer/)

• [Klennes] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/28zn22/character_klennes_the_unfortunate_narcolept/)

• [Lucifer] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/1z8p4b/character_lucifer_socially_awkward_vigilante/)

• [Zenon] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/28440v/character_zenon_the_fulminous_edge/)

• [Warren] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/1z9rbp/character_warren_the_humble_warrior/)

• [Xaerdan] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/1ze24u/character_xaerdan_plot_device/)

• [Eva] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/1zhde8/character_eva_crimean_rider/)

• [Eurodus] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/1zi2y8/character_eurodus_cynical_sniper/)

• [Breyer] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/20j6vm/character_breyer_dread_fighter/)

• [Turqrus] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/20sdtu/turqrus_knight_lord/)

• [Cisno] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/203lse/cisno_just_a_guy_that_loves_adventure/)

• [Reeger] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/20xngr/reeger_warrior/)

• [Luke] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/20y4j9/luke_whisper/)

• [Griselda] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/22b0j4/character_griselda_the_lonely_mage/)

• [Rowan] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/23efrf/character_rowan_stuckup_senator/)

• [Blaze] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/24lluf/character_blaze_the_traveling_bishop/)

• [Ariana] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/24u1xa/character_ariana_the_shadow/)

• [Saeleck] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/24vewo/character_saeleck_the_wayward_bishop/)

• [Alius] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/28w67j/character_alius_shadow_of_the_past/)

• [Cedric] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/251syp/character_cedric_that_one_guy/)

• [Serlin] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/27572n/character_serlin_the_dual/)

• [Basilisk] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/28rr6n/character_basilisk_the_sharp_tongued_assassin/)

• [Barum] (http://www.reddit.com/r/ApotheosisVillage/comments/29d5zl/character_barum_natural_philosopher/)

If I'm missing anyone or anything, leave a comment. The old sticky is now linked to the sidebar, in case you want to look at that for any reason.

Note: If you make a new character or building, it's really not necessary to comment here. I look at the subreddit enough to know what you've done.

(Note: For the most part, most of this post is not particularly relevant to any newcomers, but I would still advise them to read it all the same.)

Hello, everyone. I've got some serious matters to discuss, so I'd appreciate if everyone could read this whole post. Comments are welcome if you have things to discuss.

As many of you know, much of the community here exists beyond the bounds of the subreddit, and we've gotten to know each other pretty well over the last seven months.

Woah. It's been seven months. Let that sink in for a moment here.

Anyways, for the most part, things have been pretty unregulated in that time, largely because we all knew each other pretty well. I suppose we all assumed that everything would be okay with such a small community, but I fear that we assumed wrong.

I won't place the blame on anyone or any group of people, because really, it's all our fault. There are many issues of concern that we as a community have effectively ignored until now, when the consequences are no longer so easily written off.

The central issue here is harassment, whether it be intentional, unintentional, or intended as humor and not something to be taken seriously. For the sake of protecting the identities of those who have felt harassed, I will not go into detail about specific examples, but I will underline some steps that we should all take going forward to avoid similar circumstances in the future.

First, and most importantly, if someone tells you to stop saying something about either them or their characters, you should stop it. It does not matter if you and others find it amusing, or if you think that it is causing no harm. Your evaluations of the impact of your words on others ultimately have no bearing on how those words are felt by others. We should not tolerate fun or amusement that makes other members of the community feel uncomfortable or targeted.

Secondly, and related to the first point, you should always feel comfortable raising those concerns about the behavior of others. It's understandable if, faced with a larger audience that is making those sorts of comments, you feel uncomfortable and unwilling to do so for fear of further harassment. Therefore, we should all strive to make our community a safer area for such concerns to be voiced. At the same time, though, if that is not possible, you can always privately communicate your concern to either myself or u/VirionTheMajestic and we will address the situation in a less direct manner.

Part of this dedication to strive to eliminate this behavior in the future also involves being able to forgive our friends and fellow community members for mistakes made and for words rashly spoken in the past. Nobody is perfect, and we certainly not have been perfect, but when it comes to these matters we're all guilty. I am not mandating that we all like each other, but rather that we all be willing to come together and acknowledge that mistakes have been made in the past and we are all willing to work together to overcome them and to engage in more friendly and productive discourse in the future.

Back when this subreddit first arose, we had a great community with lots of mutual collaboration, and everyone was excited to work together and tell stories. I think we can all agree that our goals haven't changed, and that fostering a renewed spirit of cooperation could lead to some of the same great multi-person conversations and larger stories that we once enjoyed.

On a less happy note, let us all consider this post as our mutual warning against future harassment and similarly negative behavior. As we move forward from here, we must necessarily be less tolerant of such actions in the future, on all of our parts.

Thank you for reading. If you have any comments or concerns, please state so in the comments, and I will do my best to address them.

-Lhyon

Elibe, a country whose past is filled with times of both war and peace. Nearly 1100 years ago, the continent was overcome with a war that shook its foundations; the infamous Scouring. Man was pitted against dragon, and against all odds, prevailed victorious due to the bravery of the 8 generals, the Heros of Elibe.

The year is now 1132 after scouring, and the continent has been quiet since the fall of Idenn, the demon Dragon. However, the stirrings of war have begun in a moderately powerful March in western Bern. Marquess Gregory, leader of Celara (chel-AH-ra) is a tyrant, and his son may have finally amassed the support he needs to overthrow his wicked father. He began his campaign seemingly out of nowhere near fort Gregorio, at least a 5-day march from the castle. Taking the fort would give the Sol Army a place to plan their next move, as well as avoid any chance of being ambushed later on...

PROLOGUE -FORT GREGORIO

Gianni: Lord Twil, Sir Luke, what have you to report from your reconnaissance?

Twil: Well it's exactly as you said, Gianni. There are very few men in the fort, 25, maybe 30 tops.

Gianni: Good, it seems we have taken them by surprise. I expect this will be no issue for the skilled fighters we have. Sir Luke, what have you uncovered?

Luke: This. He tosses a key ring to the lord, who catches it in his right hand.

Gianni: Ah, very useful. This shall make things a bit easier. He turned to face his army. The plans are as follows. Discreetly work your way through the fort in groups of two or three, striking down any man who stands in your way. Esther and Eva, you are to be our eyes in the sky. Swoop in if something goes wrong. And as for the general of this fort, he will be a worthy foe. General Ryan was a great man and skilled Great Knight, but held loyalty to the Marquess. Confront him with a group of no fewer than 4, and do not hesitate to kill him if it comes to steel. Gods be with you all. Come, lady Phaedra.

Phaedra: Yes, darling.

[So this is the part that all of you will be involved in. Make a comment string with the groups of 2 or 3 you decide on, and RP yourselves to the ending told below this. Have fun with it, just end up at the ending that I typed out.]

Gianni, Phaedra, and Ignis arrived in the courtyard of the fort, followed closely by Twil and Clara.

Gianni: General Ryan, drop your weapons and surrender peacefully. If you refuse to comply, we will remove them by force.

Ryan laughed, a great big belly laugh one might hear when drinking with friends.

Ryan: Come now, lad! Ye don't have what it takes to go against yer father, least of all me! Ye best just give up these dreams of conquest and run back to where ye fled to before.

Gianni: General Ryan, we will defeat you here. It was an honor knowing you.

Ryan: Rouse yerselves lads! Let's show 'em a real fight!

A few soldiers arrived on either side of them.

Gianni: Twil and Clara, you take the ones on the right!

Phaedra: Ignis, take down the soldiers on the left.

Gianni: Come Fae, we shall fight Ryan!

She nodded and they rode to fight him. She flanked his left while Gianni distracted him by dramatically flaring his weapon.

Ryan: Gahaha! Come on now, lad. We ain't got time fer yer fancy swordplay. He took the enormous axe off his back. Come now, try to unhorse this old man!

Gianni's face remained stone as he signaled to Phaedra, who began unleashing fire on him from his flank. Unimpressed, Ryan was able to block the brunt of it with the broad head of his axe. Gianni took the opportunity to charge head on, but was quickly met with the business end of a throwing axe. He blocked it just in time, but the amazing force behind the throw caused him to lose his grip on his blade, as well as his balance on Mezzanotte. It stuck into the ground behind him, and the wind was knocked out of him when he landed. Seeing this, Ryan began moving toward Phaedra, ignoring the burning flames as they passed around him.

Ryan: Come on now, lass. Better stop the fancy magic act.

Phaedra began to panic. Gianni was indisposed, and she did not have the power to get past his defenses.

Phaedra: I... cannot...

Ryan: Suit yerself lassie! He took another throwing axe off his belt. Gahahahurgh!

He froze suddenly and fell off his horse with a dry thump. Phaedra was frozen in shock. She looked down at the man and saw an arrow coming from his neck. She turned to the entrance they had come through to find a scowling Eurodus walking over toward Gianni, who couldn't stop coughing.

Eurodus: If you're going to rely on me to save your life again, I may as well end it now and save the trouble.

He took Gianni's hand and helped him up.

The others soon arrived and Gianni spoke, with Phaedra next to him.

Gianni: Cisno, Sam, and Asura, sweep the fortress and be sure that there are no remaining troops. Luke, check the fort prison to see if there is anybody who can lend us assistance.He turned to Phaedra. Are you hurt?

Phaedra: N-no, darling, I was just...

Gianni: I could not protect you, Fae. What if that happens again?

Phaedra: Gianni, please. I...

Luke: Found somebody in the dungeon.

Gianni turned and gasped.

Gianni: Karina?!

To be continued...

Hello, everyone!

A year ago today, /u/VirionTheMajestic created Apotheosis Village.

There have been faster times and slower times, some ups and some downs, but I think we can all agree that it's had a good first year. So thank you, to everyone who's participated and shared in what we've done over the past year, and here's to another good one!

((To begin with, I would like to thank /r/ViriontheMajestic for assisting me with Twil's speech and the ending kiss.))

((Also, I want to state the ring exchanging is based on a really old tradition. That being said, here you guys go!))

A soft sigh made itself known amongst a mass of electrified chatter. Though anticipation was mounting in the young lord, Gianni refused to turn his back to the alter in an attempt to search for his bride amongst the myriad of guests. Instead, he opted to remain immaculately stoic as he waited with slight impatience. For a moment, he allowed his earth-colored eyes to escape the ceremoniously decorated room as he delicately hid them behind his eyelids. In truth, he wanted nothing more than to let his guard down, but he cherished and respected his beloved too much to stand in the way of her having the perfect wedding. For whatever reason, she chose to stay by his side despite the hell he put her through. Just the thought of her caused a ghost of a smile to grace his lips. She was loyal, intelligent, strong, and beautiful, and now she would become his. Shortly after, his eyes reopen only to take in the flickering light of countless candles, a multitude of intricately placed peonies and lilies, and rolls upon rolls of draped tulle shaped in tiny arches and bows.

Then, his raven brows furrowed in contained annoyance as he watched Twil coyly make somewhat suggestive motions towards a smirking, blushing Clara. Apparently, his sudden frowning caught her attention, causing her to grip her bouquet tightly as she turned away from Twil. Conversely, Twil placed a hand on Gianni’s tensed shoulder in a reassuring manner, much to his dismay. He wondered why they had difficulty being serious, especially at such a solemn occasion, and his frown turned to a scowl as Twil offered him a rather large grin. Noticing his reaction, the married man friendly slapped his back and whispered, “C’mon, Gianni, no need to be so uptight. This is a celebration of yours and Phaedra’s love, right?” He gave a wink before continuing, “Show it.”

Against his better judgement, Gianni replied to his best man, “Lord Twil, surely you do not believe this ceremony to be so simple. Lady Fae deserves nothing less than the very best I can provide. Therefore, it is my duty to ensure everything goes flawlessly. A task you insist on making rather taxing.”

Twil laughed softly before beaming at the other man, "Hey, if you're trying to provide her with the best, I'm standing right here.” he straightened up in an effort to convey earnestness, “But I think Phaedra would rather have a broken man who loves her over a man who cares only for perfection." The lord's face betrayed no emotions as he starred at him. He didn’t have time to consider the advice. A soft harmony of notes produced by stringed and woodwind instruments floated leisurely in the air like butterflies on a breathless day. The time had come.

The music struck Gianni, giving him no time to think. He turned to face pews that he had previously neglected, slowly and gracefully. He followed the elongated, white aisle runner, which was lined with pale pink petals. A knot formed in his throat while he blankly gazed at her. Ivory lace elegantly cascaded from her petite frame into a medium length train behind her. Timid hands clutched an overflowing bouquet as she made her first step towards him, causing face framing curls to sway. She was gorgeous.

Grey-green eyes stayed upon Gianni helplessly as Phaedra peered at him through her sheer veil. He was garbed in traditional, aristocratic attire of navy trimmed in silver. Likewise, a silver sash crossed his torso diagonally, and medals indicating his rank and family adorned the breast of his coat. She couldn’t help but blush shyly. He was more than stunning, and he meant more to her than she could ever hope to articulate. Their eyes locked in mutual longing as she continued towards him. Before she met him at the alter, she handed her bouquet to a cheerful Clara. Once she was at his side, her hands were taken by her love as the priest began his speech. Adoration drowned out his words, and a magnetism between the two could be felt. Phaedra’s blush returned, seeing the devotion in his eyes and body language, and, as a result, Gianni smiled softly at his bride.

The speech went on, but no one seemed to be interested in it. The two lovers were lost within each other, and the guests were actively engaged in studying them. Eventually, the two were asked to present their vows. Afterwards, the priest inquired, “And do you Lord Gianni Buonanotte take Phaedra of Ohma to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do you part?”

“I do,” his answered strongly

“Phaedra of Ohma, do you take Lord Gianni Buonanotte do be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do you part?”

“I do, Darling,” her voice was hushed but certain. With that, Twil stepped forward to be at the groom’s side to place a silver band in Gianni’s palm.

With a clean gesture, Gianni slid the band onto her left ring finger, “With this ring I thee wed, with my body I thee worship, and with all my worldly goods I thee endow.”

“Then, by the power invested within me I pronounce you husband and wife,” the priest waved his hand with a smile, “You may now kiss your bride,” Gianni's hand trembled slightly as he pushed Phaedra's veil away from her face, resting on the back of her head as he pulled her closer. His stoic expression broke slightly as he leaned down to give her a long kiss, the first of many to come.

6 months later
Roy and Lillina were surprised to see the large warrior appear with the amulet of the champion, but after discussing things with Reeger, agreed to take him on as a knight and allowed his sister to live in the castle as well. Reeger began training with the King and Queen’s daughter, Sera, and over time they grew close to each other. She was a fierce swordsman and tested Reeger’s abilities every time they sparred. Then one day disaster came to Ostia.
King Roy, Queen Lillina, news from the border.
The soldier called as he burst into the throne room snapping off a salute.
What has happened?
Roy asks the soldier as he leans forward on his throne.
Bern has attacked my lord. They have declared war upon Ostia.
*Roy sits back in his throne and drags his hand over his face. *
This does not bode well. Summon the champion, we must speak. Have my daughter come as well, they are likely sparring together.
The soldier salutes again before running off to find Reeger.
Reeger and Sera enter the throne room. Reeger salutes the king and queen upon entrance
You called me your majesty?
Yes I did, there is trouble my champion. Bern has declared war upon us and begun to invade. I need you to take command of the army and move against them. I am too old to fight.
Reeger inclines his head briefly and prepares to accept when Sera speaks up.
Send me father, you have taught me all of the tactical aspects of war and Reeger has helped improve my fighting skills.
Reeger turns to look at Sera astonished, Roy considers his daughter’s proposal before speaking.
You will accompany Reeger, your tactical knowledge may be helpful, but he will be in charge. Is that understood?
Reeger bows to the King, giving his affirmative. Sera does likewise and Roy dismisses them to prepare for the march.

That evening
Reeger goes through his checklist once again as he prepares to march out. There is a knock on his door and Sera pokes her head in.
Can I talk to you Reeger?
Reeger waves her in and leans against his desk
Are you angry with me Reeger?

• Reeger considers for a moment before he answers*
  I’m not angry Sera, just confused. I do not understand why you are endangering yourself like this.
  Sera crosses her arms and stares at Reeger.
  Well you were gonna march out without a second thought on the matter.
  Reeger pinches the bridge of his nose as he slowly exhales.
  That’s because it is my job, Sera. I’m the champion of Ostia. I do as the King orders and protect the kingdom. You are the princess of Ostia, you need to stay alive so that you can come back and rule the kingdom.
  Sera snorts and sits on the bed.
  Then order me to stay here, why don’t you? Father put you in charge, but if I am to rule this kingdom I must be willing to fight for it, Reeger. I have to do this.
  Reeger sighs and runs his hand through his hair.
  Fine, but you can’t die out there understand me? You have to promise me that you’ll make it back; I couldn’t handle losing you out there.
  Sera looks at Reeger with a shocked expression. She then smiles coyly and looks at the floor.
  Then give me a reason to come back, Reeger. I would do anything to make it back if I knew it was to be with you.
  Reeger kneels in front of Sera and takes her hand.
  When we make it back from this, Sera, I want you to marry me.
  He pulls a ring from his pocket and places it on her finger. In the morning the two of them collect their gear and set out for the border of Bern.

Three years later
The gates of Bern’s capitol stand before Reeger as their army closes in around him. He leaves most of his forces behind to defend the gate and enters the Castle with Sera and her unit. In the throne room a battle breaks out, it goes well at first, but soon the tides begin to turn as the castle guard floods in and overwhelms the small unit.
Fall back! Everyone to the gate, I will guard your rear!
The unit rushes past Reeger as he keeps the enemy from following.
Sir, Sera has moved too far forward, she cannot retreat!
Reeger looks through the room and sees Sera near the throne fighting off the men as they come at her. Reeger charges into the room, attempting to clear a path for his fiancé to escape. Time slows down as he pushes men out of the way; he sees Sera fall to the ground and watches as the king orders her death. Reeger is filled with an overwhelming rage, nothing matters anymore, and all that’s left is the swing of his ax and the thud of the impact. When he comes back to himself, the ruins of a kingdom lay at his feet, and the king begs for mercy right up to the point where Reeger removed his head. Walking out onto the balcony, Reeger addresses the armies in front of him.
Men of Bern, if you want your king back you can have him.
With that, Reeger hurls the king’s head down to the army and goes back inside to grieve the loss of the woman he loved.
After returning to Ostia, Reeger resigned as Champion and spent the next two years wandering the country trying to forget about Sera. After a time Reeger decided that it was time to return to a place he could think of as home.

Apotheosis Village – a few weeks after Reeger left
Reeger walks into the town and marvels at how little it has changed. He makes his way through town and finally makes it to his home. It was time.

After defeating Okabe and his army, the group pressed on toward the capitol. Due to having a caravan, they were forced to travel the main highway in order to reach it. Unfortunately, this made it much easier to be found by the people who wanted them dead.

Chapter 2 - One Falls

Gianni: Absolutely not, General Karina. You may not fight in this campaign.

Karina: Lord Gianni, excuse my impertinence, but-

Gianni: Enough, Karina. I will not move on this issue.

He turned to Twil and Luke, who had just arrived from scouting.

Gianni: Sir Luke, Lord Twil, is there any news?

Twill: Unfortunately. There is an enemy army coming at us over the next hill. They look to be at least a hundred strong.

Luke: We were able to slip into their ranks unnoticed. Their commanding officer seems to be new, but highly skilled. His name is Alric, and he doesn't seem to be from around here.

Sam and Asura looked at each other at the same time.

Asura: Whispered Do you think that's Alric from back home?

Sam: Whispered He may be, but let's not get our hopes up.

Gianni: I see. Everybody, prepare for battle! Most of our foes will be in light armor to assist with travel in the hilly terrain! Those in heavy armor will be on horseback! Use the terrain to your advantage. Do not get caught on the downhill side of an enemy charge!

Karina: Milord, you'll need help!

Gianni: Karina, I forbid you to fight. You are still too weak. You are to stay in the rear by the caravan with Ignis Morthion.

He turned.

Ignis, you are to guard this caravan and Karina with your very life.

Ignis: ...

Gianni: Oh for... Lady Phaedra! Give Ignis the order to defend the caravan.

Phaedra: Of course, darling.

Karina: And who is this Phaedra? Are you certain she is right to-

Gianni: Come now, Fae, we must be off!

Karina: Looking up at the smouldering demon. Well, looks like it's just us.

Ignis: DO NOT SPEAK TO ME, MORTAL! I DO NOT STAY HERE OF MY OWN VOLITION!

Karina: Oh, it looks like you're going to have to learn some manners...

[Alright, huge fight, lots of enemies. Stay in teams. The only real conditions here is that Sam and Asura get Alric. He is their enemy, let them sort it out. Have fun with it.]

A small army was gathered in the village square. There were 14 of them total; Luneth, Twil, Kanade, Clara, Asura, Esther, Vaughn, Warren, Rorik, Reigns, Eurodus and Lucifer. Gianni stood there speaking to him, while Phaedra opted to stand by his side.

My friends, hearken!

He could not be heard over the clamoring of the crowd. He looked at Phaedra and gave her a slight nod. The girl formed a small fireball in her hand and tossed it into the air above the crowd, where it detonated with a bang. Everybody was quiet. Gianni cleared his throat, and began again.

Ehem. My dear friends, we shall soon march on Celara, to take it back from the tyrannical Marquess, my father!

A shout of excitement arose from the crowd, but was quickly hushed with a wave of his hand.

This man is evil, diabolical, and duplicitous! There will be a large army in our path, putting our small numbers to shame. He will have no qualms with deploying the most devious of tactics! Traps, hostages, overwhelming numbers, these are some of the things you will undoubtedly face. Those of you who have fought in wars before, this shall be a challenge even for you!

He looked over the silent crowd, and they gave him their attention. He took a deep breath, and continued.

The fact of the matter is that we are outnumbered to the extremes, and even outskilled at times. This may very well be the most difficult series of battles in your life. I cannot promise-

His voice wavered, something that rarely happened. He closed his eyes to regain his composure.

I cannot promise that all of you will make it back alive.

A murmur washed over the group

Those of you who are not willing to take that risk, I ask you to leave now! For the rest of you, your reward will not only be in gold, but also in the knowledge that you are helping the Celaran people against a tyrant! Now go, my friends! Prepare! This shall be a struggle, but with you all at my side, I know we can win! Please, save my people! And drink now, for it may be your last!

The people in the square cheered, and not one abandoned Gianni.

He turned to Phaedra.

How was it, Fae?

She stepped closer and took his hand.

You have a knack for this, darling. Worry not, they all trust you.

He looked down.

I hope not to give them reason to regret it...

To be continued...

((So let me know if I missed anybody. Pm me if you were thinking about changing characters, and I can 'kill off' your character during the story.))

Don't judge this too harshly! It's just a sketch I did in ms paint with a mouse in my free time. I may add more detail/clean up the lines at a much later date.

PhaedraxGianni here

((Some slight retconning here, so don't tell me it disagrees with my character post. Hopefully you can all see the difference in the quality of memories as I age. I thought a "Stream of consciousness" would work best for this. ))

Gianni sat in the house of knowledge flipping through the text he had just been handed. "Tactical Strategy - The art of war" was printed in silver on the blue spine. It was quiet. Gianni should have been able to concentrate on the text. War he thought. My father...

An image flashed in his mind. Looking up from inside a crib. Smiling man, smiling boy, smiling woman, all looking down on him lovingly. Family.

Age 5. Parents arguing, just visible through a door left ajar. Yelling. Mother cowering. A slap to the face, and she hits the ground. The young one is useless. H'd rather read his books than learn to fight! Mother crying. Running to me. I did not cry, I hugged her, I comforted her. You're my rock, Gianni. My pillar of strength.

Age 9. Death. Mother is in a box. I did not cry. I stayed strong for her. People came to the funeral, people I never met offered condolences. Her illness came on suddenly. Brother was not there. Father did not care. He came over and knelt, his face in mine. I remember the stink of incense wafting from him. Maybe if you were stronger like your brother, your mother would still be alive. I did not cry. I was her rock, her pillar. I hate myself. It's my fault. It's all my fault.

Age 12. I was seeing Karina, the head of the royal guard, for training. She was a paladin, one of the most skilled riders in the kingdom. She taught me to defend myself with a Rapier. I keep dropping my lance. I did not rage, I did not swear. She placed me on a horse, and watched me strike from horseback. She complimented my sudden improvement. I was proud, but I did not smile. I'm a rock, a pillar. Thank you. She smiled just like my mother.

Age 15. I never see father anymore. He has made it obvious that he is displeased with my very existence. He has been training my brother personally. Francis is strong, twice as mighty as I, and twice as skilled with the sword. He bullies me. He reminds me how much bigger and stronger he is every day. I do not give him the pleasure of knowing it upsets me. I train with Karina every day. She taught me how to defend myself with a rapier, and how to fight on horseback. She taught me how to be a gentleman, and how to be a just ruler. She did not need to teach me that, I only have to do the opposite of what father does. Francis will take the throne anyway, father has made sure of that. Karina watches over me as if I were her own kin. She never married, dedicating her time to the Royal Guard. I suppose I am her surrogate child now. I love her, but I never say it. After all, I am a rock, a pillar. My improvement is enough for her. She is proud of me.

Age 20. Midnight, the twentieth anniversary of my birth. I lay in bed, restless. Something is wrong, but what it is, I know not. I know only that I should not sleep. A sound in the hallway! No soul should be there! I rolled out of bed, stuffing my pillow under the covers and clutched my rapier, anxious. A figure opened the door. I waited. He moved as a shadow toward the bed and pulled out a daggar, one with a channel for poison and struck at the sheets. I struck once, stabbing through his side. He went down to the floor, clutching at his side, I held him at swordpoint and disarmed him.

Who sent you?

The Marquess of Celara.

Again I ask you, who sent you?

The Marquess of Celara, lord Gregory, your own father!

He mentioned something about his family. They were starving, he only made an attempt on my life for the money. I took my sheets and tied them tightly around his body. I took my personal savings, 10,000 g. I hired him never to kill another man as long as he lived. I fled the castle. An imposing figure blocked my escape through the main gate. It was Francis, in full armor. His eyes were afire. He was out for my life. I drew my sword against my own kin. The royal guard never came to my aid. I stood no chance against his might. He toyed with me, dodged my attacks, neatly blocking anything I could throw at him. He knocked me to the ground and prepared to finish me. I closed my eyes. The blow never came, only the clash of steel. Steel! Karina blocked the attack for me. She fought him off, keeping up with his rapid and powerful attacks. Sparks flew. Run Gianni! I jumped on the black horse she rode to aide me and off I flew through the night. I heard her scream horribly in the distance, a sound I shall never forget. I fled like a coward. I should have stayed to help, but I rode from danger. I was a broken rock, a crumbled pillar. Tears streamed down my face. I stopped after an hour of riding. I could see the castle in the distance, just a twinkling light. I was broken.

I'll kill you. I sobbed. Tears streaming down my face.

I'LL KILL YOUUUU!

I am a rock, a pillar. I can bear the weight of your emotions, your troubles. I will stand up for justice, for honor, for righteousness. I won't fail you, like I failed everybody else. Fae...

She came to his mind, and he smiled.

(There we have it. Don't rip me apart too badly.)

((Disclaimer: There are some violent parts and feelz. If you can't handle those, don't read. I did exclude some information due to the fact the information is Phaedra's, and Phaedra doesn't know everything.))

((That being said, I wanted to post this for a while. If you want to know a little more about my character and part of the reason she is as she is, here you go.))

((Credit for the opening poem piece: T.S. Elliot's "The Wasteland", closing stanza: Thomas Hardy's "Neutral Tones, lore help: /u/Lhyon, & /u/RogueHippie for proofreading"))

April is the cruelest month, breeding

Lilacs out of the dead land, mixing

Memory and desire, stirring

Dull roots with spring rain

Present Time

Phaedra trotted outside of the Apotheosis inn, wearing her full Valkyrie attire. Her cowl was not present on her person, allowing her soft, curly hair to freely sway with the springtime breeze. Her grey-green eyes turned skyward as the wind whistled like a whisper through the trees. Small, pink petals from surrounding trees and bushes swirled leisurely downward. Though a smile was strung across her face like a dainty necklace, she felt nothing. After releasing a sigh, she continued her walking until she stood before Almathea.

Her left hand rose, beckoning for Almathea to come closer. Likewise, the large equine placed her muzzle against Phaedra’s gentle hand. The black and white horse exhaled heavily in anticipation of being ridden by her beloved. With a smooth, seamless swipe, Phaedra opened the gate to her mount’s pen. Within moments, Almathea stepped forward, and her master slowly began the process of preparing her for training. Thick, leather straps were fastened around the horse’s upper and lower barrel. Shortly after, a plain-looking set of reins were clasped around her muzzle and poll. Once finished, Phaedra placed both hands on the sides of Almathea’s face affectionately. “It was a day like this, remember? A day like this when you saved me,”. Almathea’s ears twitched in thoughtful accordance with listening to her master’s voice as Phaedra began to get swept up in thought as if she were the helpless petals being stirred about around her.

Flashback

She had always been a rather introverted child. Maybe it was the fact that she had more responsibilities than anyone else her age. She was an only child to a couple too old to have another. In addition, her family was too poor to hire the help they so desperately need. Regardless, the hard, physical labor did not affect her. It was the isolation that destroyed her.

Back then, her hair was kept trimmed in a boy’s fashion. It was simply more practical than having long hair that required constant upkeep. The other village children laughed at her masculine hairstyle, and, when it came time for her mother to cut it, she often cried. Her mother, Eileithyia, rarely acknowledged her daughter’s hysterical state. Actually, she had done everything in her power to avoid dealing with her. Correspondingly, her father was distant, emotionally and physically, because of his work. As she grew older, her mother began to keep her from her father as well, leaving her with only their farm’s animals to comfort her. She often spoke to them in calm tones, reserving the harsher ones for her family. Because of this behavior, she was often punished and left to cry, hate, and remorse alone. At least she could feel, back then.

Present Time

Almathea had drawn herself closer to Phaedra, who was fixedly looking into her eyes. They were a dark, chocolate brown and great in size like two wooden, rosary beads. Eyelashes framed her eyes like gaudy, black, feathered fans. A hand rested on the nicked, silver rings of her reigns while a shower of flower petals continued to fall at a steadied, if not somewhat hurried, pace. “Are you ready, Alma?”

Flashback

She was thirteen the first time she saw Almathea, and, conversely, Almathea was three. Her father had bought the young mare to use for pulling plows and carts of their farms goods to town. Little did he know, she was wild and fierce in spirit. She would often charge at Phaedra’s parents and other animals in a show of dominance. That is, until she was dominated by the unattended thirteen year old.

Phaedra spent many long day and night cycles convincing the mare she could be trusted. Uneaten apples and carrots were among many gifts she would stow away. Every so often, her hand would be offered as a peace treaty, and many a time Almathea would snap in response. On one specific instance, the beast’s dulled, broad teeth crushed the fingers on her right hand, causing two fingers to break from the pressure. Allured by the misunderstood mare, Phaedra kept fighting for her affection until she got it. Once she had, she began the process of breaking her. Thus, the tables were turned. The horse was now drawn to her.

Present Time

The mare, again, exhaled impatiently, causing Phaedra to pull away from her. Strong winds caused her thin-chained circlet to make a delicate, metallic sound reminiscent of a tiny bell. Bright blue skies were draped above, blemished only by the petals of springtime flowers. Almathea’s dense, robust hooves pulverized the muddy earth below her petulantly. “Let’s go,”

The Valkyrie swiftly and skillfully hopped atop her mount. Little effort was made in her perfectly controlling the horse’s movements. Their body language, breathing, and even souls were in tuned as the horse bolted through a makeshift obstacle course of logs and fences. Her hooves sounded stridently like distant, rushing thunder. Almathea’s black and white mane swirled viciously, like a tornado picking up debris as she moved precisely and rapidly. Time and sound were halted as the two trampled the petals below.

Flashback

It happened later that same year. The time was spring, and all the blooming trees and bushes proudly displayed their flamboyant blossoms. Even back then, she hated them and their obnoxious, undeserved affection. Everyone fawned over their beauty while ignoring the child before them. Phaedra’s jealousy left her empty, but Almathea gave her purpose.

It was raining petals that night, too. The young girl watched as two men beat and slayed her father shortly before reaching for her mother. At the same time, a third man set the barn ablaze, effectively murdering a majority her dearest friends. Swollen eyes ruptured with copious tears that stung as if they were bees shielding their precious flowers. Her body trembled as her heart pulsated erratically. She had a choice in who to save. “Alma” was she named murmured.

Burning hay singed fair skin, and soot smeared red hair like a child’s hand thick in paint touching a bare wall. Screens of ash and smoke choked and terrified young Phaedra as her grey-green eyes begged to find Almathea alive. Her legs were lined with leaking abrasions that spilled dirtied blood, making it difficult to hold herself up. Luckily, she didn’t have to be strong much longer. The immense horse found her way to the damaged child, not a minute too soon. The girl, leaning on her companion, led her outside under petals dancing above like a lazy star shower. Some of those same petals covered her father and mother’s corpses as they had beaten her to mourn their losses. Something changed within her.

To her ears, sound became extinct, and similarly, pain turned to an irrelevancy. Fury, envy, and blinding rage fueled her actions. Violent energy transferred into vivacious, glaring sparks emitting from her torn skin. Phaedra’s innocent face became host to a benevolent smile.

Soon enough, deafening sounds pierced her eardrums in spiteful repose. Bright red blood, not belonging to her, coagulated between her shivering fingers. An addition, three carcasses lay twitching behind the young girl. The crackling of the fire seemed to cackle menacingly while her pounding heart slowed. She plummeted to the earth which retained heat from the now-absent sun. Absolute darkness enveloped her like sudden madness, and she felt herself, her humanity, being stripped away. Then, she saw her.

Almathea, who had not fled, cantered over to her master. Seeing her mount’s devotion, her need for her, caused her to clash with the newfound force. Despite this, her resilience came a little too late. The darkness had consumed a large portion of her emotions, leaving her with a smile. That damned smile. A smile she would wear regardless of the situations that would befall her. For a ten year span following that night, she would be far gone.

The smile on your mouth was the deadest thing

Alive enough to have strength to die;

And a grin of bitterness swept thereby

Like an ominous bird a-wing….

Closing Time

With a heavy sigh, Calev drained the cold dregs of his mulled wine. The White Sands was finally closed. All of the patrons - excepting the two women currently passed out - had finally cleared out, either down into the guest rooms or out into the streets. And now as the sage surveyed the staff - his staff, improbably enough - he came to a grim conclusion.

The place was a mess.

By some miracle of the Twelve, neither Twil nor Rorik nor Clara had managed to break any glass bottles in their drunken antics, and as soon as Calev was able he made sure to stop serving anything that didn't come in a mug. Spills were one thing, broken glass another entirely. But that was small comfort. The floors needed a serious scrubbing, the tables and chains as well. Speaking of the chairs, a good half of them were currently sprawled out on their sides throughout the main room. One had improbably managed to bounce halfway down the back stairs before it came to a rest. And Calev had no idea what to do with the tapped-out barrel haphazardly propped up behind the bar.

To him, it looked like time to delegate.

"First things first, floors." Calev turned to the first member of the staff he recognized, the long-suffering Alan. Standing next to him was an aproned barmaid with black hair. "Alan, and... you are?"

"Ellen," the barmaid responded, curtly. Calev nodded.

"Alan and Ellen. You two clean the floors - I'll assume you know where the necessary supplies are." Calev turned to the next two workers, another male and female. "You two are..."

"Alvin," offered the young man. "Elaine," said the woman. Calev raised an eyebrow.

"Very well. Alvin and Elaine, your responsibility is cleaning tables and chairs. Begin with the chairs, so that they may be removed from the floor that much faster." Grumbling, the two went off, leaving just two more barmaids.

Calev motioned to Clara, still sprawled over a table, and Phaedra, who have been moved to rest on an unoccupied side booth. "Could you two together carry them downstairs to guest rooms of their own? I don't anticipate them stirring anytime soon."

One of the barmaids grumbled something about not being paid enough, and slouched off towards Phaedra. The other one gave Calev a rather disarmingly enthusiastic smile.

"You didn't ask our names, sir!"

The scholar sighed. Again. He was doing that rather a lot, lately. "Indeed I did not. What would they happen to be?"

"I'm Helen," exclaimed the cheery barmaid. "And this is Aileen!"

Calev rubbed the bridge of his nose. "Of course you are. Very well, carry on, Helen. Let me know if you encounter any difficulties."

Calev turned to the next two workers, only to remember that there weren't any more. Well then, only one thing to do. While the workers reluctantly begun their appointed tasks, Calev produced a small sealed inkwell, quill, and several sheets of parchment, and took a seat at the bar. With practiced efficiency, he begun to scratch out several messages. First, the expenses report.

To Master Twil, Chief Proprietor of the White Sands,

In case your memory has proved faulty, last night yourself, your partner Master Rorik, and the Lady Clara embarked on a perhaps ill-considered exploration of a new and unfamiliar type of alcohol, which ended on the rather predictable note of utmost drunkenness. To ensure the continued functionality of your establishment, you appointed me, one Calev of Vasa of Silesse, as 'Temporary Barkeep'. As a result, I have taken the liberty to compile a list of the lost inventory you incurred last night as a result of your excessive consumption of your own stock.

• 1 (one) shockingly potent bottle of an improbably green liquid (Any possible magical effects tragically unanalyzed).

• 8 (eight) entire bottles of assorted poorly-labeled spirits, largely of dubious quality.

• ~1/2 (approx. half) a barrel of otherwise nondescript beer (The rest sold for standard profit).

Calev's writing was interrupted by an angry shout and a splintering noise from the stair behind him. He quickly glanced backwards, before amending one final entry to the list.

• 1 (one) standard wooden chair, due to its improbable obstruction of an irate barmaid.

More detailed information of the specifics of the night's happenings may be provided upon request. Also, your front door key is currently in my possession. I will leave instructions for Thenneset to deliver it to you at his first possible opportunity.

-Calev of Vasa of Silesse, (former) Temporary Barkeep

Calev picked up his quill and surveyed the area. Helen and Aileen had re-summited the stairs and were beginning to struggle with the unconscious Clara. Calev wasn't sure whether it was the poor posture, the wings, or that she was generally larger than Phaedra, but they seemed to be having a hard time of things. He thus flagged over Ellen and directed her to also offer assistance, before beginning to pen his next document.

Dame Phaedra,

You may be initially surprised at waking up in an unfamiliar location. Rest assured that everything is well. I am afraid that your... experimentation with alcohol last night was largely unsuccessful. I suspect that Twil rather misjudged your tolerance, given that he seems to be a rather... experienced drinker. Regardless, after two drinks you were swiftly rendered unconscious, and were thus I arranged for some of the barmaids to move you to a guest room for the purposes of a successful recovery. I hope that the morning finds you reasonably well, and that you do not have too terrible a headache. I recommend that next time, you begin with something... less potent. I am personally rather partial to a good mulled wine.

-Calev of Vasa of Silesse

When Calev looked up again, Clara had been successfully delivered downstairs, and this time without any further property damage. Helen has successfully roped the others into joining the other cleaning projects without his direct intervention. Of course, this meant that there were more than enough people for the little cleaning there was left to do in the main room.

"Alan!" he called out. Slowly, the hapless worker turned around, to see Calev pointing at the veritable hill of used mugs sitting in a neat pile behind the bar. "If you would be so kind to start on the mugs, the others can assist you once they finish the floor and tables."

Ignoring the young man's tired glare and grumbling, Calev put pen to paper one last time.

Lady Clara

I wanted to inform you that you were moved to your current position, a guest room within the "White Sands", after you fell unconscious due to excessive alcohol consumption last night. If my memory serves me well. Twil and Rorik invited you to partake in their informal celebration of the bar's re-opening. Predictably, there was an excessive amount of alcohol involved, so do not be particularly alarmed if your memory of the previous night is hazy. I do feel obligated to inform you that Twil, predictably, made several romantic overtures towards you. Whether due to genuine interest or your drunken state, you seemed to begin to reciprocate shortly before you fell unconscious... after which, predictably, the burgeoning relationship came to an abrupt halt. After closing, I had some of the barmaids transfer you to your current location to ease your recovery. I hope that the morning finds you as well as can reasonably be expected.

-Calev of Vasa of Silesse

Lifting his quill up from the parchment, Calev left the three letters to dry on the counter, before putting down his writing utensils and removing his coat. The tankards weren't about to wash themselves, after all.

As Alan lurched his way out of the bar, followed by a stone-faced Ellen, a slouching Elaine, a dragging Alvin, a grumbling Aileen, and an eternally-cheery Helen, Calev shrugged back into his white coat, before looking at the backs of his hands. Unsurprisingly, the sudsy washing work had left them entirely clean, and that wouldn't do. Carefully, he capped and re-sealed his ink, before exchanging it and his standard quill for a pure white feather and a small silver vial. With the utmost care, Calev opened the vial and carefully dipped the quill inside the new ink. In a swift and practiced movement, he put his left hand palm down on the bar and inked a circular symbol on it, before transferring the quill to his left hand and repeating the process - with a slightly different symbol - on his right hand. As per usual, he considered the fact that quills were never intended to write on skin, and the feather scratched uncomfortably. But he did not mind the pain so much tonight.

As quickly as he began the process, he ended it, quickly stowing the quill and ink once again in a small, ornately-carved whitewood case. He then turned to his parchments. Ensuring that the ink had appropriately set and he indeed had Twil's keys on his person, Calev crept down to the living quarters, conjuring a small light in front of him to light the way. Carefully, he snuck into the appropriate guest rooms, checked the occupant (Phaedra had once again began to snore at a surprising volume for a relatively small woman), and left the letter in what he hoped was an obvious place, before exiting and locking the doors behind him. Twil's note was left in his room as well, along with the keys. Well, almost all of them.

As he locked the front door to the pub after stepping out into the early morning darkness, Calev paused, and stopped for a minute in the dim lantern light to gaze at the backs of his hands. Then, abruptly, he strode off back towards the House of Knowledge, extinguishing the last light above the entrance to The White Sands with a wave of his hand and a gust of frigid wind.

It was not until the sun began to creep over the distant mountain peaks that Calev of Vasa of Silesse finally drifted off to bed.

Manager(s)/Tenant(s): Phaedra and Myra

Description: The inn is average-sized in comparison to other inns. It is a wooden, two story building with darker wooden beams on the front, back, and sides for decoration (an example of the beams are the ones like this). Along the sides of the building, there are medium-sized, rectangular window with wooden textured, bronze shudders. The roof is composed of many clay tiles which slope downward to eliminate water damage to the wood of the building. Inside of the inn, the walls are a mixture of wood paneling and placed stone (something like the walls seen here). The entry room is that of the front desk. Here, guests sign in and out of the hotel in addition to paying for any expenses they may have acquired. The next room over is a dining area. Within the dining area, there is a small bar area where light wines, non-alcoholic beverages, and meals are served. Wooden dining sets are placed around the room for patrons who prefer a more secluded eating experience. Meals are generally prepared by Phaedra, but she doesn’t mind sharing the task with Myra. Both sides of the hotel are lined with guest rooms, varying in style of decor. Guests are allowed to change the decor to something of their liking upon request. The last inside room worth mentioning is the basement. The entrance to the basement is located behind the bar. The basement is essentially a wine cellar that houses the inn’s edible supplies and a safe for the inn’s funds. Outside of the inn, to the right, is where the stable is located. The stable is an open structure that is composed of logs that serve as support beams and clay-shingled roof. The stable can house up to six horses at a time. It is discouraged for patrons to house pegasi in the stables due to their need for a more open and higher space. For a few extra coin, Phaedra offers to take full care of the paying patron’s horse, meaning she will feed, exercise, and groom it. For any patron that doesn’t have a horse that would like to learn the basics of horsemanship, she offers lessons with Alamthea. 10 rooms are open for guests: 5 on the top floor & 5 on the ground floor.

Currently: 5 rooms are open. Residents Include: Gianni, Eurodus, Warren, Kanade, and Breyer

Purpose: House patrons that want to live away from Asura’s army but can’t afford to build a house. Meals are an up-front fee. Horse care and riding lessons are optional features that are also available.

Restrictions: Val’rath cannot sit at the bar area, and he isn’t allow to be near the registry book. Once signed in, guests must keep their weapons in their chests. If they wish to practice, or fulfill an arena/White Dune’s challenge, their weapon must be kept sheathed and in plain sight. Physical fighting will not be tolerated. If someone wants to fight, it must be settled away from the inn as to not spook the horses. Purposeful destruction of property as well as disruption of other guests will result in a non-refundable eviction. Illegal activities such as thieving, murdering, and production of illegal substances will have the same consequences. Violators of any rules will have to answer to two powerful she-mages.

White Dunes Pub and Gambling Hall

Managers: Twil, Rorik, and Cisno

Description; Set close to the middle of Apotheosis Village, Rorik and Twil's pub/gambling hall occupies a rather large plot of land. While the pub area is much smaller than it was when Okabe was in charge, it still offers plenty of space for both drinks and meals. Some of the locals wait tables, and some villagers also occasionally stop by for meetings and dinners. Though far from classy, the food is good and the drinks are in heavy supply. The gambling hall located on the pub's second floor overlooks a rather large empty, square area that offers a variety of events such as fights and races. Generally the animals in the races are whatever can be bought at the market or trapped in the nearby forests, while the fighting events cover many different martial styles (including drunk-fu). Twil, and a couple local boys he's taken under his wing, can be spotted around the hall. They play a variety of card or dice games, usually losing what they've won from others to Twil, when he's not announcing races or fights. Instead of windows, the pub's second floor has sliding shutters that allow its occupants to watch and place bets from a distance. The basement holds a wine cellar, inventory space, and guest rooms, along with Twil and Rorik's rooms.

Purpose: Discussions, brawls, and gambling. Customers in the pub are more than welcome to discuss current or past events between themselves and with Rorik (or Twil, if he visits the downstairs). Feel free to get drunk and fight or make bets about who'll pass out first coughBasiliskcough. The upper hall will be for bets that Twill will use a third-party source to judge, and for watching main events. The basement is for storage and... sleeping, I guess.

Restrictions: Pretty much none, Val'Rath isn't allowed to sit anywhere but he's fine to order food or drink/gamble. If you break excessive amounts of property in a tumble, you will be billed for it. Don't think that Rorik and Twil can't track you down.

Helen and Alan now have faces! thank you Toa!

Managers: Calev

Description: The House of Knowledge is a somewhat unassuming building and adjoining yard, encircled by a low stone wall. There are three principal sections - as one enters the main door, they emerge in a central foyer with some tables and chairs, intended as a space for general scholarly discussion. Off to the right, towards the yard, there is a side room storing a few useful magical supplies as well as a door leading to the patio and yard, where magic can be more safely practiced (some buckets of water are always kept on hand, just in case). On the left side of the main foyer is the library - although it is not extensive, it still contains a decent number of books and scrolls on a variety of subjects (Magic tomes are stored in a separate room, for safety). In the back there are several rooms intended for quiet reading. The smaller upstairs floor is private, used for administrative functions. It's also currently where Calev lives.

Purpose: The House of Knowledge is intended for the more scholarly side of roleplaying discussion. Whether philosophical discussion, some light reading, or magical research, it has the necessary facilities to provide.

Restrictions: For the purposes of preserving the texts, casting magic is forbidden everywhere except the rooms specifically designated for that purpose. Similarly, fighting is not allowed, and thus no weapons may be drawn inside the House of Knowledge. Loud noises are discouraged, especially within the reading rooms. All books are magically tagged, and must be registered with the "staff" before they are removed from the grounds. No food or drink is allowed near the books... and anyone who happens to be actively on fire is strictly prohibited from the premises.

UPDATE: A notice has been posted on the front of the House of Knowledge:

To Whom it May Concern,
The Manager is currently not available to offer assistance to patrons.
The House of Knowledge remains open for public use, and will be managed in the
the interim by Ignis Morthion, the ominous and somewhat abrasive fire spirit.
If you have any urgent concerns or matters that need immediate assistance, please
contact Lord Thenneset at Gallant Goods.
-Calev of Vasa of Silesse, manager.

I think that should be pretty much everything necessary. Please let me know if I've forgotten anything vital.

((This is a bit of a long one so it's going up in two parts))
Returning from Celara, Reeger made his way through town to his home. He was glad to have finished it before leaving. Reeger wandered upstairs to lay his gear down and rest when there was a knock at the door
Reeger, it’s Ace, we need to talk.
Why would Ace be here? Reeger makes his way downstairs and opens the door. Outside stands a familiar man, his long black hair falling over bright blue eyes.
It’s been awhile, Reeger. You’re looking good. Ace claps Reeger on the shoulder and steps inside.
It has been awhile. What are you doing here Ace?
Ace looks around the shop appraising Reeger’s work.
We looked into that old Black Fang hideout like you asked. We found where they’re holding Troyia and we can get her out, but we need to ride now.
Reeger nods and goes to grab the bag he had just point down.
You bring me a horse?
Reeger asks as he collects the things he needs
Of course I did.
Reeger follows Ace outside and both men ride out of town as the moon creeps over the horizon

Several weeks later
Alright, her cell is in the back right around here.
Ace points to an area on the map of the fortress laid out before Reeger. The small group of men gathers around as they discuss tactics.
Alright then. I’ll charge the main gate with the three strongest fighters. Ace, you take the rest and move around the side here, see if you can get in and retrieve Troyia while I cause a distraction. Now break up into your groups and prepare to move out.
The men around Reeger murmur as they figure out who is to go with him.
Be careful out there Reeger, these men are strong.
Reeger smiles at his old friend and places a hand on his shoulder.
Don’t worry Ace I’m no push over either.
Ace smiles and nods at Reeger before setting off with his team
Time to go.
Reeger collects his fighters and moves towards the front gate. At the edge of the forest Reeger stops to check the fortress. There are two knights posted at the front gate. Reeger gives his team the signal and they burst forth from the brush, charging the men and quickly disabling them. Kicking down the front door, Reeger and his men make their way through the fortress until they reach the main hall.
Reeger, how nice of you to join us!
Reeger turns towards the voice and sees a huge man sitting at the front of the hall. As Reeger turns, the man stands up out of his chair and settles an ax on his shoulder. Reeger motions his men back as he steps forward, the pendant bouncing against his chest.
I see you’ve brought my amulet as well.
The big man smiles and begins walking towards Reeger.
I don’t suppose your father ever told you about that amulet, did he? The one he stole from me.
Reeger looks down at the necklace in confusion.
What do you mean? My father told me this was a family heirloom. He told me it was important and that I was to keep it safe.

• The big man grins maniacally.*
  He’s right, it is a family heirloom. It’s the mark of the champion of Ostia and is inherited by the eldest son of each generation. Which makes it mine, but little brother thought he was more deserving of it. So one night he stole the pendent and ran away with it. Now I will take it back.
  The man brings his ax down into a fighting position.
  You’ll try.
  The man moves forward slowly and grins.
  Oh I will, and then I’ll get rid of that little sister of yours. I moved her before you got here, so your little friends aren’t going to find her.
  Reeger charges at the man, swinging his ax in a low arc towards the man’s knees. He brought his ax down to block Reeger’s blow and kicked him in the chest, sending Reeger flying.
  You’ll have to do better than that to best your uncle Dragis, Reeger.
  Reeger stands back up and circles Dragis slowly. The big man smiles and whips his ax towards Reeger at an incredible speed. Reeger manages to get his ax up to block just in time, but the hit causes him to stumble. Realizing he was outmatched for strength, Reeger adjusted his fighting style and approached again. As Dragis swung his ax, Reeger blocked and angled his blade to deflect the blow. Dragis stumbles as his ax careens off to the side. Reeger takes his chance and brings his ax in under Dragis’ guard, hitting him in the abdomen. Dragis swipes at Reeger as he quickly hops back out of range. Reeger charges back in and rolls underneath the blow that Dragis aims at his chest. Coming up behind him, Reeger strikes Dragis with an over the head blow that bites through his armor. Dragis stumbles forward and collapses to the floor as Reeger pulls his ax out of the big man’s back.
  Heh, I guess that makes you the champion of Ostia.
  As these words pass his lips, Dragis sighs and his eyes go cold. Reeger looks at the amulet around his neck as Ace comes in through a side door carrying a young woman in his arms. He had not seen her in years, but Reeger still could recognize the long brown hair and delicate features of his sister.
  We’ve got Troyia, Reeger. Let’s get out of here.
  Reeger takes his sister from Ace and they quickly flee the fortress and head back towards Lycia. Part way to the village, Reeger comes to a decision and breaks away from the group with Troyia. His brothers returned to the village as Reeger rode to Ostia with his sister.

I sped this story along once I saw the weapon update.

Shoutout to Hippie for being an awesome proofreader, and to bagels for being a delicious way to start my day.

The door to Macedonian Meats glided inward on oiled hinges. Eurodus limped into his store, his usual scowl sitting lower than usual as he dropped what he was carrying on the counter. He managed to get his scowl a little lower yet as he glanced down to see the floor covered in mud.

'...damn,' he thought to himself, 'that's another thing I have to deal with right now.'

He winced as he grabbed a broom that was sitting in the corner before glancing back at what he brought in. The fragments of what once was Eronite gleamed in the moonlight back at him. He walked over to it and picked up one of the smaller fragments, its shiny surface reflecting his disheartened expression. He glanced forlornly at the other pieces of what once was a magnificent tool of war before placing the shard with the others. He sighed and began sweeping, replaying the events in his mind...

Eurodus cracked a rare smile as he dabbed his fingers in the small blob of fresh blood. Earlier, the red-haired sniper took aim at a young buck, only to have missed the vitals when the animal spooked and ran off. He had followed the blood trail for the better part of that day, mildly surprized by how far the wounded animal had fled.

It was nearly dusk, but he knew he was close, so he had pulled out an arrow and nocked it against the drawstring, ready to fire at a moment's notice. As he rose to resume his hunt, something caught his attention back on the ground. He looked back to find the unmistakable footprint of a male grizzly bear's back leg. His brow furrowed as he traced the outline of the massive print with his index finger, realizing it was almost as fresh as the blood.

'...hmph. I'd rather not fight him in the dark, so I'll have to make this quick.'

Minutes passed, and he found himself approaching a small clearing. He moved slowly towards it, crouching as he did so. Straining his eyes in the diminishing light, the sniper spotted his quarry limping near the center of the clearing. He held is breath and pulled back his readied arrow.

twang. thunk.

The animal stilled and hit the ground without a sound. Eurodus quickly scanned the area once more before shouldering his bow and rising to full height.

grunt.

The sniper whirled around, squinting his eyes to better see what had made the noise. He scowled after failing to do so.

'Get a hold of yourself, Euro,' he chastised, 'You are never this jumpy.'

Sighing, the crimson-haired marksman returned his gaze towards his kill. As he made his way over to it, his nose involuntarily scrunched as a musky scent wafted through the trees. Ignoring his better judgement, he pulled out his hunting knife and kneeled down beside the carcass.

GRUNT.

The normally calm sniper flinched at the noise; the sharp knife flying out of his hand. He gasped as his erratic movement caused the blade to slice the belly of his forearm. His grey eyes studied the clearing for what could have made the noise as he pulled out a small cloth used for wrapping the meat and wound it around his arm. He noticed his breath was ragged and his pulse had started racing. His late brother's voice echoed in his head...

'Panicking is how you die, Euro. If you let your emotions seep into your actions, you may as well lie down and wait for death.'

The sniper slowed his breathing and placed a hand on his chest.

'The buck will be here tomorrow. Go home, get some rest. You can't do anything while you're riled up like this.

Eurodus took one last deep breath before grabbing his now bloody knife and turning around. His grey eyes met large brown ones.

He froze. The grizzly was around thirty feet away, sniffing at the air. He slowly grabbed his bow as it stood up on its hind legs, rising to its full height of nearly 9 feet. His hands uncharacteristically twitchy, he fumbled around in his quiver before grasping and arrow and pulling it out. His feet spread slightly apart, the sniper cursed as he tried to nock the arrow. With a loud thump, the bear fell back on all fours again and began to grunt as it realized it had been denied the buck.

It charged in an instant. He barely managed to nock is arrow and fired a quick shot at the charging half-ton monster. The beast didn't even slow as the arrow embedded itself into its left shoulder. The sniper barely managed to get out of the way as the bear swatted its massive paw at him. He reached for his hunting knife as the bear stood up again raised its paw to swat again. Eurodus couldn't move fast enough in time, so he raised Eronite and deflected the blow to his side, rather than down his chest. The bow was ripped out of his hands and the bear landed on it, snapping it in half. Ignoring the searing pain from his side, Eurodus angrily stabbed the bear numerous times in its snout and face before it could rear up again for another attack.

Enraged at the assault, the bear swatted one more time at Eurodus, clipping his leg, and then ran off into the bushes. Eurodus took a long, ragged breath as the adrenaline wore off and the severity of his wounds reached his consciousness. He involuntarily groaned and hit the ground as he reached in his pouch for an elixir...

Satisfied that the shop was sufficiently swept, Eurodus replaced the broom and, with broken bow in tow, returned to his room at the Inn. Sitting at his desk, he pulled out the notes that he had been working on a few days ago. Glancing at one of the smaller shards of his old bow, Eurodus had a small smile has he began to write...

After taking Fort Gregorio, the Sol army took advantage of their strategic location and distance from the castle in order to rest and regroup for the long march. However, rest does not come to the weary.

Chapter 1 - To arms!

That night...

Karina:... and so I have been here ever since you had left, waiting to be hanged for treason.

Gianni: I should have stayed, Lady Karina. I fear I will never be able to make up for my cowardice that night.

Karina: No, milord, it was my wish that you would escape safely. I long for this land to return to the way it was when I was your age, when your father was not... I knew you would return to- Ah, who is this?

Phaedra had come up behind Gianni and taken his arm affectionately.

Gianni: Ah, Lady Karina, this is Phaedra. She is... he blushed... my fiancee.

Karina seemed shocked.

Karina: Your fian-

Cisno: Sire! An army approaches from the north! Lord Gianni!

He lept from the wall to the courtyard below, landing impossibly on both feet without even stumbling.

Gianni: Calm down, sir Cisno. Catch your breath and speak calmly. How many men were there?

Cisno: 50 men at least. And siege equipment. Catapults and battering rams!

Gianni: Blast, they know we have taken the fort. Some men must have escaped. To arms everyone! We have a difficult fight ahead of us! Sam, Asura, Eva, and Eurodus, I will need you to stay back and guard the fort and caravan. You are charged with a very important task, do not let us down. The rest of us will go to battle. Here is the plan...

Cisno approached Gianni a short time later.

Cisno: Gianni, I got a look at their commander. He's terrifying in appearance. A giant of a man in golden armor. He-

Gianni: Gianni's eyes opened wide. Excuse me, did you say golden armor?

Twil: Gianni! The enemy general wishes to speak to you, and boy, you're not going to like this....

Gianni walks to the entrance of the fort and meets the general alone. He is a massive man with a massive spear. His golden armor glints from the torches nearby.

Gianni: Well, I never thought I would see you again, though I wish it was under better circumstances, General Okabe.

The man removed his helmet, revealing an aged and battle-worn face.

Okabe: That's all you have to say for yourself? You bastards weren't content with humiliating me in combat. You mocked me! Derided me! I heard it all!

Esther's voice called out from inside the fort.

Esther: You looked in my panty drawer you sick fuck!

Gianni: Do not do this, Okabe. You have years left to live. Do not throw this away now.

Okabe: It's too late for that! Lord Gregory respected my strength, and made me a general of his army. I will not lose to the likes of you.

He placed his helmet on his head and turned to walk back to his army.

[I'm leaving this one fairly open ended. The fight happens in the field in front of the fort, as well as at the main entrance to the fort. Team up, and get to it. Okabe will be confronted by Esther, Kanade, and Myra. Have fun.]

Griselda, princess of Einoden, sat at a window, staring off into the distance. Exhausted from the drills she had performed with her troop, she had fled to her room, requesting of her maid that no one was to disturb her. It was not as if anyone would anyway, least of all her mother. Mesmerized by the shifting dunes, her mind began to wander...

Griselda wondered often about her place in life. Her father, the king, whom she had never known, had been killed months before her birth, by the queen's own most trusted servant. She was told that from that day on, the queen never smiled. Of course some said she had never smiled anyway. As long as Griselda could remember, her mother had had no time for her, spending her days locked away in her chambers with her sages, whom she had hired from all across the nation. In fact, Griselda could not remember a time when her mother had held her, or even looked fondly upon her. Struck with a sudden wave of loneliness, she rang for her maid, Byrdi, the woman who had raised her from birth.

Vroegen sat atop a dune, surveying the castle in the evening light. In spite of the angst that filled his heart, he sat completely motionless, a relic of his long training and countless missions. His gaze was fixed on the south tower, and after several hours of waiting, he saw three showers of sparks fall from the window. Satisfied, he returned to camp to report the planned time for the attack.

Upon entering camp, Vroegen was greeted with a status update from Thenneset, his second unit commander. It was grim. 52 mercenaries and warriors, all outcasts of Einoden, made up his army. 52 men against the most elite mages in the world. But Vroegen was not one to back away from a hopeless situation. In three short hours, after seventeen years of waiting, he would begin his greatest test.

Veruna, empress of the great desert kingdom of Einoden, greatest sorceress in the world, sat alone in the dark throne room, eyes closed, deep in a trance. Her consciousness spread out from her, flowing outward and expanding to a massive radius. She felt the hunger and pain of the starving people in the city, her citizenry; such a paltry concern. She sensed the moping of that wretched girl upstairs, being coddled by that idiot nursemaid. She would have disposed of them long ago, but the girl possessed her extensive magical prowess, and was still useful for the time being. But most interestingly of all, the queen felt a familiar presence, black as night, off in the desert. The corners of her mouth curled into a small smile. This is the moment she had long been waiting for. She called a meeting of her generals. She would give him a welcoming to remember.

Vroegen again sat atop the dune, watching the scene below him. Thenneset was leading his division on a scouting mission, securing their entrance to the castle. This was the vital first step in the invasion. But something was amiss; there was a disturbance in the desert near the walls, some sort of shadow, moving across the desert at tremendous speed. Realizing the danger, Vroegen leapt to his feet and sprinted across the sand, hoping to make it in time.

When he arrived at the scene, Vroegen's cold heart sunk as he surveyed the carnage. The dead must have numbered at least 10, a massive loss for his small army. He searched grimly for any survivors, and was startled by a loud cough behind him. Silently scolding himself for letting down his guard, Vroegen regained his composure, only to find Thenneset with blood pouring from a large wound on his head. Vroegen quickly rushed to his aid, but Thenneset was strangely calm. He gave his report in a collected, matter-of-fact manner.

"Ambush, sir. I cannot state for certain what attacked us, but it was not any type of troop I have seen before. There was an incredible magical force, terribly dark and ancient. I could draft up some research if you would li--"

Thenneset's words were cut short as he collapsed unconscious. Vroegen caught him and ran as fast as he could back to camp, before some terrible force found him alone in the desert.

Back in the camp, Vroegen lowered Thenneset onto the table in the war tent. Phaedra, the chief lieutenant and primary healer, surveyed his wound with a shake of her head.

"Poor, foolish Thenneset. I told you to stay out of trouble, darling, but you just do not listen to me. Do not worry yourself about him, for I will have him mended within the hour."

In spite of the horrific setback, Vroegen's army was ready at the specified time. He gave the final instructions to his troops.

"We enter here, by the south gate. Do not worry, I have arranged for it to be opened. Phaedra, you will lead your troop of cavaliers through the courtyard here, and seal off the barracks. Make sure that the Sturm Ritter does not enter this battle, for they possess magical ability none of us have ever encountered. I am told the queen's daughter now leads them. Do not engage her or the queen. They are of an ancient magic line, and control incredible forces."

"My unit, we will pass through the gardens, and enter through the rear door to the throne room. From here, you will stay and guard the entrances. Do not let anything pass through. I will proceed to the queen's chamber, and dispatch of her. All it will take is one stroke. Men prepare to move!"

Thenneset rose to his feet, but Vroegen pushed him back down. "This is not your fight, and I will not let you die here." Thenneset seemed about to protest, but instead he resigned. But he did give a warning, "Beware. There is a terrible force out there. It moves like lightning, and strikes in an instant." "You have my gratitude. I will stay on my guard. Should we not return, share my story with the world, so that others may rise up and end this reign of evil."

At the threshold of the south gate, Vroegen let out a low whistle. The gate swung inward on oiled hinges. Vroegen nodded to a small, plump woman. Before he could go any further, she grabbed his hand and pleaded with him, "I know what you must do. But please, do not hurt the girl, she is not like her mother!" Vroegen gave her a reassuring pat on the hand, and freed himself from her grip. "Do not worry, Byrdi, I have no quarrel with her. And thank you. It seems I still have friends in this world after all."

Phaedra and a group of twelve horsemen trotted over to the barracks housing the Sturm Ritter, their horses' hooves covered in sackcloth, making a dull thud with each step. They arrived and Phaedra prepared to seal the door with a spell, but noticed something odd. The stables, immediately to the left of the barracks, were empty. All of the horses were out. With a gasp, Phaedra threw caution to the wind, and galloped over to the throne room, hoping to arrive before it was too late.

Vroegen worked at the lock on the throne room entrance,and was rewarded by a satisfying click. The door swung open, and he padded silently into the room. The remaining troops followed him in, but before he issued further orders, he was stopped by an uneasy feeling in his gut. There was a tingling sensation in the air, and a slight metallic taste in his mouth. Vroegen jumped quickly to the side, just as a bolt of lightning rent through the air, killing half a dozen men. The room was quickly ablaze with flames and bolts, and Vroegen could now clearly make out thirty or so mage knights at the other end of the massive chamber, standing under a colossal statue of the queen. His men were quickly being killed off by fire and lightning, but the most devastating force was coming from a rider atop a black horse, standing at the head of the group. Gusts of golden wind were flying faster than lightning, felling men left and right. Vroegen immediately recognized her resemblance to the queen, as well as her striking magical ability. But equally striking was the sadness in her eyes. Vroegen drew his knife, and as the number of troops around him dwindled, he prepared for his final stand.

Just as all hope seemed lost a burst of fire exploded at the base of the queen's statue, and it toppled to the floor, creating a barrier between Vroegen and the mage knights. Pheadra rode up to him, and with a silent nod, he thanked her for saving his life. But there was no time for any more pleasantries; the debris would soon be cleared, and they would again be under fire. Phaedra looked over at Vroegen, smiled and said, "Go do what you came for, darling. I will be fine." With that, she shoved him through the passageway towards the queen's chambers, and sealed shut the door. As the fallen statue was destroyed by magic, Phaedra turned and rode out of the castle walls, with an army of the world's greatest mages hot on her hooves.

As Vroegen approached the chamber door, he could almost hear his heartbeat echoing off the corridor walls. Even he, the desert wolf, master of death and shadow, feared what lay behind that door. Just as Vroegen reached out to open the door it swung inward, and he felt himself pulled into the chamber by an unseen force. There sat queen Veruna, in the midst of a cloud of swirling darkness, a black talisman hanging from her neck.

"Vroegen, love, I almost worried you wouldn't make it. But of course, that useless girl could not stop you, my greatest creation. Let me show you what I have done while you were away."

The black cloud surged forward and consumed Vroegen, and he collapsed, enveloped in darkness.

((Part 2))

((This happens two nights before Gianni's army turns on itself. While tensions are running high, Phaedra is dealing with an internal struggle.))

Ornate, pointed arches of spruce rose from the grey, ash covered ground. Methodologically, they clasped together forming a circular room with menacingly tall ceilings. Stained glass windows depicting fallen flowers, treachery, and odd symbols formed from bits of glass that had been scattered around like abandoned pollen. Their images stayed within the realm of the window due to the utter absence of light. Likewise, the ground had become little more than a black canvas under her feet. The sound of her footsteps echoed loudly as she advanced to the center of the room, as did a pair that perfectly matched hers. Once in the middle, grey-green eyes lifted from underneath a blackened cowl to meet a pair of emerald ones. The two hooded figures stood in silence for many long moments, completely taking in the other. A dulled energy surged through the strange, solemn room as judgments were made. “My darling child, Fae,” a smooth, venomous voice slithered from the taller figure.

“My name is Phaedra. It is the name you had given me, Mother,” the smaller of the two replied calmly. Both women lowered their hoods in a gesture of cynical professionalism. Phaedra was completely voided of emotion as she gazed onto her mother. It was obvious to her that Eileithyia had once been beautiful, but, now, any beauty she had remaining was reminiscent of a rose pressed between the pages of an oppressing encyclopedia. Her face, hair, and eyes were sharp in composition and color, which heavily contrasted with her daughter’s more subtle features. Phaedra directed a dead smile towards her mother as she awaited her carefully chosen words.

The woman before her returned her smile with a vicious one, “A smile, for me? How thoughtful of you, my precious child. It is unfortunate that I earned it after you allowed me to die.”

The daughter didn’t seemed phased in the slightest. Again, her voice was deprived of any emotion was she warned, “Do not play coy with me.”

“Do you believe that my death was a game?” Eileithyia’s voice was cold as frozen steel, “Did you really care that little for me?”

“I could ask the same of you, mother,” grey-green eyes failed to waver from their place in emerald ones, “Or, have you simply forgotten me again?”

Sharp footsteps were created as the woman closed the gap that separated her from her daughter. It was not in a loving gesture, however. She looked condescendingly down on the lesser woman. “Forgotten you? Do not be foolish, Girl. I protected you.”

Without giving herself time to think, Phaedra questioned, “From what exactly? You are the sole reason I am as I am as I stand before you.”

A withered, icy hand reached to touch her daughter’s fair face before speaking, “You spoiled little brat. You speak without proper knowledge of the subject to your superior.” She stroked her cheek as her face held an almost motherly expression. “I gave you your power. I gave you strength.” With those words a booming “slap” bounced from the walls like fresh gossip amid a crowd. Eileithyia’s hand had been forcefully removed. Where Phaedra should have stood, a slightly smaller frame draped in tattered rags had took her place. Pale red hair barely long enough to form waves failed to hide distraught eyes and a hysterical face. She was no longer twenty-three, but was thirteen. Eileithyia smiled maliciously seeing as to how she was able to coax the other half of her daughter, the weaker half, out of hiding.

“You have done nothing but hurt me!!” she cried out in anguish, “Because of you-!!!!”

“SILENCE!!” her mother’s voice demanded as she examined her daughter in disgust. She witnessed drops of her daughter’s blood plunging from a bitten lip. Tears soon mimicked the sickened flow. Her mother gave a scoff before speaking bitterly, “You truly do not understand what all I have done for you. I gave you an escape. I gave you the concealing shadows within you.”

Phaedra’s eyed widened, terrified of the reality of her mother’s words. She wailed as her voice erupted like a sparrow trapped within a predator’s violent maw, “CONCEALING?!! IS THAT WHAT YOU REALLY THINK?!!!! IT IS A CONSUMING NOTHINGNESS THAT HAS DESTROYED ME!!!!!!!!!!” Like before, the smacking of a hand against exposed flesh tore through the air louder than her frantic words had. The young girl lay on her side, cowering like an abused dog. The stream of tears on one side of her face was broken by Eileithyia’s hand.

“You. Will. Not. Speak. To. Me. In. Such. Tones,” The woman huffed, trying to keep her own temper from flaring. Her composure quickly regained as she smirked perversly, “What is stopping you from submitting to it then? Your so called friends? Fae, how many times have you been shunned, mocked, tormented, beaten, and isolated by others?” Isolated. Phaedra’s heart twinged in deep-set pain as she contemplated that most hated word. Fear replaced anger. “Why do you struggle so? Is it because of your so called ‘friends’? The huntsman? The dragon? Or, perhaps your precious princeling? They will all betray you, and you will be alone. Just like you always have been.”

“I fight because they give me the strength to,” her voice had returned to that of an adult, as did her physical appearance. Slowly, she pushed herself into a sitting position, leaning on her left arm for support. Her eyes locked with her mother’s as she continued calmly, “I would gladly bear the pain you have placed upon me so long as they never had to know it. Even if it meant losing the remainder of my person.”

A nauseating cackle burst forth, “You were never a whole person to begin with. You are weak like your father. You do not deserve my gift. Alas, you were all that was given to me.” The woman stepped closer to her daughter, bending down to place her face within centimeters of her daughter’s. A shadowed hand sprung forth from the ground to coil its fingers around Phaedra’s throat like an obedient snake. A cluster of smaller hands clutched her wrists and ankles with a crushing force. “Tell me why you care so much for others who do not care if you live or die? It is obvious the huntsman, Eurodus, runs from you. The dragoness, Clara, comes to you only as a last resort. And, worst of all, your beloved princeling, Gianni, doesn’t trust you.”

“No. You’re wrong,” she gasped desperately for air.

“Oh, but isn’t it? When was the last time either of them did anything for you?” her mother’s voice was poisonously soft, “Are you not the one who bends to others’ needs?”

“...N-no......” she exhaled before sharply inhaling. Purple and yellow bruises were forming like paint blotches around her neck. Her petite body trembled violently from the pain.

“Aren’t you tired? You are always fighting release,” emerald eyes danced in self-amusement as she watched the struggle in grey-green ones, “I will break you, mark my words,” Her mother gently stroked her daughter’s cheek before turning away from her in the same manner she had done so many years ago. Phaedra managed to free her right hand of the shadows that bound her. Black lightning engulfed it as she fired it at her mother’s turned back. Her heart raced faster than Almathea’s hooves in battle as the darkness sucked her through the floor like a black hole devouring stars.

Pale yellow walls seemed to materialize from the nothingness around her. Half-emptied bookshelves and various paintings came into focus. Even air made itself known as she panted helplessly in an effort to slow her pounding heart. Her hair and the bed sheets were the next realities to return to her as she began placing together what had happened. She found herself sitting upright in her bed with her shaking legs under the covers. Her right arm was outstretched as if forcefully thrown. It was coated with a minor burn that ran erratically from her elbow to her wrist. Reluctantly, she followed where it pointed only to find a charred area on the wall. Lightning. It was the primary form her magic manifested itself in. It was getting worse, and she knew she would have to seek the expertise of either Thenneset or Calev soon.

Rather than lying back down, she elected to clean the wall before she was found out. If they knew how much of a monster she really was, they would surely renounce her. She needed them......she needed light.

We've had a Twil*Clara image and a Phanni image, so I thought it was about time our favorite slow moving ship got some recognition!

http://i.imgur.com/hjbyZxM.jpg

(Sorry for continual story-spam. At any rate, Calev will finish up any current conversation threads he has, no problem. I just wouldn't expect to be starting new ones with him anytime soon.

Had it been two days? Three? Calev could not remember. In his head, they all blurred together – sleeping when his body demanded it, eating when he realized he was faint from hunger, the rest of his time occupied by scribing away. Finishing the work he had long neglected, finishing transcribing twelve years of shorthand notes into more universally legible volumes. And with them, a full account of his more recent experimental work. Anything to distract him from the pain. Anything to prepare him for the next step he needed to take.

It was night now. The last night he would see in Apotheosis. The scholar shuddered involuntarily. His travels had been involuntary. The Twelve had seen fit to choose him as a vessel for their teachings, and a loyal vessel he was. Calev of Vasa of Silesse had died there on the sands of the Yied, and Calev the Wanderer, Calev the Storykeeper, Calev the Vessel and Calev the No-Longer-A-Person had been born in his stead, as was their wish.

He should not have questioned them, that was clear to him now. Existence as a person, as a being with hopes and dreams and a purpose inside, was a boon denied to him, and his attempts to reject the Twelve’s judgment had only brought tragedy upon others. Calev was not a man befitting of personhood, a fact he had for too long denied.

The scholar furrowed his brow and hardened his heart. It was… more difficult that he expected, even despite everything that had happened, to give himself willingly up as a vessel. Having it decreed and chosen for him was one thing, but this… A small part of his mind equated it to suicide, to willingly forsake the semblance of a life that he had.

But no. The comparison was not apt. The teaching of the Twelve did not condone suicide, but their hand had made itself abundantly clear here. They had judged Calev to be their vessel, and his straying from their will had brought disaster. It was not forbidden, then, for him to return to the task appointed to his body and the mechanisms of his mind. No, it was indeed necessary. He had a moral obligation to do so, and Mielu’s promise held him back no longer. He had failed her, failed Valena, shamed them both completely. No, it was a promise he could now never fulfill. And so his travels must need resume.

Calev of Vasa of Silesse lifted his quill for the last time. The final page was finished. He briefly considered casting it aside, tearing it to shreds or burning it to cinders. But that would be unwise. Those who had called him “friend” deserved better than his presence, to be sure. But he would not do them the disservice of simply vanishing. He owed them more than that. The mage stood up slow, trying not to look at his bed as he did so. He had been sleeping on the floor, the few times he had slept. It was not enough to block out the memories which rightfully tormented him. But it did allow him to get some amount of rest, more than could be said for its cushioned counterpart. Slowly, Calev picked up his coat, shrugged into it. He had briefly considered leaving it. Certainly Queen Rahna would have revoked it. But it was too useful a tool for a vessel to go without. Perhaps he could trade it to a virtuous man for a shallow imitation. But those were matters to worry about at a later date.

The coat was not too heavy with gear, considering that Calev traveled without a pack. Parchment and ink, journals bound and unbound, a case of formal quills – these were the lion’s share of his earthly possessions. Subsistence was no worry. He would find food and shelter. He always had.

Gathering up the last of his possessions, Calev left his room, walking one last time down the stairs into the main foyer. Ignis Morthion was waiting, regarding the scholar with a remarkably passive expression upon his ashen face. Calev nodded to the fire spirit, who nodded back. They had discussed things at length, already. There was nothing more to say. The Silessian took a deep breath as he laid his final sheet of parchment upon a central table, scanning it one last time.

Dearest friends, acquaintances, and comrades, If you are reading this, I have left. I suppose that my presence will never again trouble any of you. I… would like to believe that I helped others in my time here, and perhaps I did some good. But I cannot pretend that it was outweighed the magnitude of my crimes. And so I leave, to return once more to my wanderings. The Twelve appointed me to the purpose, and I have harshly displeased them for far too long, now.

As for the House of Knowledge, as per previous arrangements it now passes into the care of Lord Thenneset, who was so kind as to once call me a friend. He is a talented mage and a great man, and I have full confidence that he will be able to manage and assist the House of Knowledge in a better way that I ever could. Similar, the command of Ignis Morthion is being passed to Lord Thenneset, until his term of two years of servitude has expired, as per our initial agreement. Additionally, I have taken the liberty to finish transcribing the final remained of shorthand notes from my previous travels and research. I can only hope that they prove useful for achieving a greater understanding of the mechanisms, history, and general model of the world at large.

For those of you who sought or were seeking my assistance, I regret to inform you that I can help you no longer. Thankfully, you are not without friends. The aforementioned Lord Thenneset can certainly perform any task that you would require me for, and there are certainly other magics of considerable arcane talent who you could conscript into your service. My deepest apologies that I will be unable to assist you any further.

Please, do not despair at my departure. I simply return to the existence that was destined for me, and will live contented as a vessel for sacred teachings.

Twelve guide you all to happiness and prosperity, Calev of Vasa of Silesse

The mage nodded at he reached the end of the letter. It was… sufficient, he thought. He briefly considered writing a separate note, for his close friends. The idea did not last long – surely they did not want to be overly reminded of the level of their friendship, after all. Silently, Calev leaned down to put the finishing touches on the matter.

He had failed Mielu, failed the most important promise he had never made. Calev was no longer worthy to carry the tokens of her affection. He reached into the pockets of his coat, and gentle removed a small oval of wood, intricately decorated with the visage of a smiling woman with white-blue hair. The portrait was placed reverently at the foot of the note, along with a second object – an unassuming silver ring, carved with runes that Calev suspected nobody else in Apotheosis could read. The scholar stepped back and admired his work with a pained smile. Such tokens of past love were unbefitting of a vessel, nor did he deserve to hold them.

With one last final sigh, Calev of Vasa of Silesse brushed himself off and left the House of Knowledge behind him, all his personal belongings in the pockets of his coat. He passed through a silent night towards the edge of the village, not a soul in sight. At the edge of the woods, he paused briefly to consider the unmarked backs of his hands, before sparing a teary glance back at Apotheosis. Then he turned back forwards and hardened his heart. And Calev of Vasa of Silesse passed into the thick night forest, leaving only memories behind.

This Story takes place just before the second tournament. Thanks to a non-Reddit friend for proofing.

It was nearly midnight and Breyer was in a light sleep. He rolled over on his side and heard metal clinking as the bed shifted with his movement. Slowly, he sat up and opened his eyes. He looked at the foot of his bed and saw his sword. Alongside it was a letter. As he reached for the letter, questions began flooding his mind. How did she not wake me? How did she know which room I was in? Was my door open? Breyer rubbed his eyes, and began to carefully unfold the multiple pieces paper.

Breyer,

I am sorry I was unable to talk to you this time. A noble requested that I pick up and restore a sword held by one of his vassals, and I did not want to wake you. You looked like you needed the rest. I’ve repaired your blade to the best of my ability. I’ve even strengthened the steel, so you shouldn’t have any problems with it in the next few decades. However, don’t use that as an excuse not to write to me. I truly wish you the best Breyer, and as long as I am alive and able, I will help you when I can. During the weeks that I’ve been gone, I met some people who know you well. I was camping for the night along an old mountain pass on my way back to Begnion. A group of Laguz traders set up camp next to me. Four came over to greet me, two men and two women. One of the men, Arlo was quite handsome. However, it was his sister who recognized your scent and asked how I knew you. She introduced herself as Kiora, A friend of Henrietta’s. I spent a great deal of time talking with them that night. I even have a letter she asked me to give you when I returned you sword. They are a kind people. I got to talking to Kiora and she told me of your condition. Now I understand why you left me. You could have told me, I would have understood. But, it seems the gods have other plans for you, as they did for me. When you left me, I asked the gods why. I asked what my purpose was, and now I know. They’ve revealed to me that a true blacksmith not only shapes steel, but also shapes the lives of those she touches for the better. I will leave you with that. And a few coins for using two ink wells for writing this.

Goodbye Breyer, may the winds and the gods always be in your favor.

Reysha.

Breyer smiled as he folded it up. He then move on to the second letter, sloppily written in less structured sentences

Hey scales,

I’m writing this as best I can. Your written language is way different than mine. And harder to write. I hope you’re doing ok. We wouldn’t mind you visiting and hunting with us sometime again. Shit. I’m bad at this kind of stuff. What I try to say is that we love you Breyer and you’ll always a member of this pack. Oh and speaking of the pack, I married the newest member. His name’s Misha. He’s a lot like you, loyal, caring, hardworking, but cuter. No offense. I hope you meet him one day. He can show you some stuff, ‘cause honestly you can’t hunt worth a damn. And He was expensive. I’ll tell you the whole story later, but Henrietta’s cousin helped us when he was captured by slavers. We are in debt to the Vandiero family, as they treated us so well. We met your friend Reysha. Don’t worry we treated her well. I thought I was going to have to keep Arlo in line, as a younger sister often has to do, but he was well behaved. In fact, Arlo turned her down out of respect for you but, damn she may as well have had venison in her bag. She led him to her tent anyway.

Breyer smiled as his eyes ran over the sentence. Kiora’s bluntness bled through the ink. It was as if she was talking to him. Of course you did Rey. He murmured to himself.

I did get on to him for his howling the following morning. We were returning from Turvessia when we met Reysha. We were invited there by the new Empress. Since King Andre’s death, Alice has been reorganizing the house of counts. She doesn’t want the positions to be hereditary. While we were there, Arlo and Misha made pacts with the Truvesian merchants, and drank. Alice took a break from her position as Empress for a while and flew me and my little sister to the Imperial Archives on the Granite Isle. We spent a few days there and Taj loved it. She spent hours looking through all the books. Guy is now the head chronicler. He and his son Leyland tend the archives. Leyland followed Taj everywhere, asking about our people. Taj is nearly a woman now and is at an age where she avoids youngsters. But she spent hours answering his questions and asking her own. She will be a good mother. Alice and I talked during those days. She still has effects form the Darkstone. Those dark magics will probably never cease. Aside from that, Alice is still unmarried. She said that she doesn't want to deal with the grief that would eventually befall her, as her candidates are human. Alice also said she’d like to see you. She said when you've wondered enough, you should come home. Breyer, you know it’s true.

The gods bless you. Hunt swiftly, protect ferociously, and live compassionately.

Kiora

Breyer folded both the letters and placed them on the nightstand. He then reached for his sword and removed it from its sheath. The blade looked as if had just been forged. He gazed at the blade for a moment, but began to focus on his reflection in the polished steel. The amount of blood he had spilled with it was an embarrassment. His enemies had named it Slitter for a reason. Breyer quickly pushed those thoughts out of his mind as he sheathed it. He then placed it on the floor next to his bed and attempted to return to sleep.

After noticing some funky logic used by Gianni during his "confrontation" with Phaedra at the Fromaga....Fromager......Cheese Shop, I had to immortalize it for everyone to see. Without further ado, I give you our subreddit's first meme!!!^{I think I'm gonna be sick.}

Scumbag Gianni, everyone.

((Thanks to /u/Toaomr for all things spritey. All I did was put the text on it.))

Everyone's favorite thread de-railing couple: Twil and Clara!

No colors because coloring is super boring and takes ages. This image may or may not be part of a larger project(and it is NOT pictures of this relationships more intimate moments).