Fantasy Dragons in the West

[Sherwood]

Nellens Zanaiya - Water Aspect - Dreaming of Roses


Lu Zheng Yi Long - Air Immaculate - Captain Hesperus


Mnemon Juriah - Earth Aspect - Random Word


Mnemon Vinh Yi - Fire Aspect - WarDragon


Tepet Prospero - Air Aspect - Vinom

 

[Sherwood]

Nellens Zanaiya


In a beautifully maintained mansion in the suburbs of the city of Arjuf, there is a young Dynast that is having a bad day. Lets cut to the chase and say that she is righteously pissed off. The servants are all running for cover as expensive crockery and breakfastware is being flung across the hall and smashing into the wall. One of the household servants sees Zanaiya and rush up to you. "Good mistress! Your sister is going crazy and is destroying everything! You are the only one that can calm her down! Please do something!" The plea for help is punctuated by the sound of Xandra letting out a screech that sounds like a wounded dire cat and the crash of something else fragile getting broken. When you make your way up to her room, you can see the casualties of Xandra's wrath lying in a scattered heap on the floor by the far wall.


Taking your life into your hands, you carefully walk over the rubble and into her room. Xandra's anima is billowing around her in full totemic glory in the middle of scattered pieces of broken couches and dressers. She has a crumpled up letter in one hand that seems to be the focus of her rage. Xandra sees you, and in a flash, she comes over to you. "Do you see this? This . . . abomination?! I was warned that this might come, but I had not idea that I would be seeing this for years! I'm being sent out to some backwater nation to whore myself out to some mere mortal! Ugh!" She throws the paper down at your feet and she storms across the room to hurl another decorative plate against the wall. The letter is informing her that she has been selected to be the one to honor the House and the Scarlet Empire as a whole as the one to be married to the Prince of Wavecrest. Her ship is set to sail in a week, and more disturbingly, she gets to bring a family member along to be her chaperone. Guess who she is going to pick to go with her? Since you are the only other member of the family currently in the mansion, you are the lucky one.


Iselsi Fayd and Ledaal Mithras


The two of you are currently sitting in a somewhat run-down tavern in the city of Juche, drinking a mug of the local brew and waiting for your contact to arrive with a message for you. While not the nicest part of town, the barkeep has done a good job in making his place a comfortable place to sit, drink, and to take in the local atmosphere. Smoke fills the air from the pipe in the mouth of the man at the table next to you, and there is a pair of other patrons playing darts, and there are scattered others in there enjoying their drinks.


After only a few minutes, a rather scruffy looking man wearing a distinctive green ribbon on his arm comes ambling in. He glances around the bar and slowly makes his way over to the table. He clears his throat and mutters, "Mind if an old man drinks with you for bit? I'm feelin' a bit parched." Unless you are mistaken, he is your contact with information on your next assignments.


Tamara and Iselsi Marinn





Standing at the bow of an expensive sailing ship, you are currently sailing around the Blessed Isle on your way to pick up cargo and passengers in the city of Arjuf to be taken to Wavecrest. The two of you are expected to be security for the upcoming wedding ceremony. You do know that there will be an honor guard coming onboard from House Nellens along with a dowry present of a gleaming jade warstrider that will be offered up as a present to the smaller island nation. While there, you are expected to make yourselves available to Cathak Wen, the ambassador to Wavecrest from the Scarlet Empire. From what else you know, there is a small intelligence network on Wavecrest that answers to Wen that will be useful to check up on, to help expand the network and uphold the interests of the Blessed Isle.


 
Mnemon Karasu





A pleasant breeze flows through the open window as Karasu sips at her cup of tea as she sits at a ornately carved table in the library of the family mansion in the Imperial City. Your quest for more magical power has led you here to find a long forgotten scrap of paper that might lead you to your next great discovery. As you carefully stir in some honey to sweeten the drink before you, your eyes devour the text on the ancient parchment that you were able to find, telling you of a long forgotten library hidden away in the mountains of Wavecrest's second largest island. The question that comes to your mind is, how much information may still be there, waiting for you to make your discovery? According to your research, there should still be quite a lot of texts there, some must be some magic texts still gathering dust. Now, how to get the funding for a dig?


Then you hear a couple of family members talking about a recent find in the islands of a large deposit of jade, and they are wondering just how much of that money will be flowing into the coffers of House Nellens when the wedding takes place? As you listen, you recall hearing about a treaty that will bring Wavecrest closer to Imperial control being wrapped up by some wedding between a member of House Nellens and the prince of the island. Perhaps you can find a way to get yourself invited to the party, and while you're there, do some digging?

 

[DreamingofRoses]

Nellens Zanaiya


"Enough, Sister. Are you some impetuous Fire-aspect to be carrying on so?" Zanaiya scolds her sister absently, crouching to pick up the note and reading over it with a sigh. At least it wasn't her, although given her history it wasn't surprising, and she would have to go with her sister if only to make sure Xandra doesn't run out on the deal. She folds the letter up and stores it in a pocket insider her sleeves and looks at her sister evenly. "What would Father say if he saw you? Or mother?"

 

[Sherwood]

Zanaiya


Xandra lets out a low growl as she glares at you, then she shakes her head as if to clear it. "Don't you lecture me! Mother and Father didn't get shipped off to some literal backwater province and married off to a . . ." She takes a deep breath and continues in a more sedate tone. "I'm sorry I snapped at you. Its not your fault that I'm being chosen to go into this arranged marriage for the good of our House. If my fiance was at least an Exalt, that wouldn't rub me so raw. But he's just a mortal. I guess the good news about this is that I'll get to outlive him. It shouldn't bother me so much, after all, I was raised to expect that I would be involved in a arranged marriage. I can get some solace in the knowledge of my betrothed is a member of the royal household. Malfias!" You are not used to hearing her swear, so that takes you by surprise. She comes over to you and gives you a sisterly hug. "Zana, will you be there with me to to help me get through this? I don't know if I can get through this without you."

 

[Phyre]

Mnemon Karasu


She stands with the parchment in hand and a book she had brought up to the room. The wind pushing though the open windows barely moving the edges of her hair. Karasu wears an emerald silk gown, covering her modestly in style, yet ever so slightly cute short enough to draw the wondering eye As the enchantress walk, her practiced stride reveals a grace that would have an artistic sculptor in bliss, movement captured in motionless art of a statue. She hides the parchment "back in a book with a title, "Love on the Petals of War." One of her pillow books that keeps others from opening prying. Just before she reaches a set of beautifully carved double doors that leads to her balcony the book is put down on a shelf.


Karasu opens the emaculate double doors of reddish cedar that leads to her balcony. The voices of a couple of her cousins grow a bit louder as she appoaches the marvelous view of Daana'ds which is underneath her. Off further along along the gardens crew of workers try to continue with maintenance in the shadows of the two exalted men, who are laughing as speaking about this Wavecreast wedding. Karasu moving to the edge of the balcony call out "Zion and Gu, what do you know of the financial prowess that may soon be for the taken by House Nellans?" And about this wedding who is making the choice on who goes within our house to honor the....lucky couple? She smiles at her distant relations with that signature smirk and devious red eyes of her that she hasn't lost since puberty. " Why don't you too, come up her and share drink with me?"

 

[Sherwood]

Karasu





The three of you sit down on a plush couch and a servant brings over a tray of drinks before vanishing into the background the way a good servant can. Gu sips his wine then holds up the glass to look at the color of the drink in the light. "You haven't been out of your books long enough to hear, but there has been discussions going on between the Realm and Wavecrest for many years. The treaty covers many different topics, including expanded access to the harbor for our navy ships, establishing a small military base with a garrison of our troops, a mutual defense pact, and preferential trade rates for our merchants. House Nellens has taken the point in these talks, and in return, they will reap the highest benefits. But, to seal the treaty, there will have to be a wedding ceremony between one of the Dragon Bloods of Nellens and the royal family of the islands." He leans forward in his seat. "What makes this a much bigger deal is the recent discovery of a large jade deposit on Pearl, the second largest island in the chain. With the deal currently in place, House Nellens will be able to be the first to invest in the cost to mine the jade."


Zion nods. "If what I hear is true, the find is going to be worth millions, not just for Nelllens, but for the Realm as a whole. This also will put them up a notch in the efforts to put one of their own on the Scarlet Throne, having enough money to afford the extra troops needed to keep secure. Quite a bonus, if I do say so myself. I know that several Houses are planning on sending a representative to the wedding, hoping to get a cut of the fortune that is about to be had. Gu, do you know if anyone from our House has been picked to go? I know that we had no interest in this before, but things change. I can't go, because as a Magistrate, I have a busy trial schedule to keep, or I'd love to have a tropical vacation. What about you, Gu?"


He shakes his head. "My company of the Legion is being kept here in the Imperial City to maintain order, so I can't go. Karasu, why don't you see if you can be there for House Mnemon?"

 

[Phyre]

Karasu


As the three sips on wine Karasu listen intently like it was a new lecture at the Heptagram and she wanted to ace the assignment. "What me?" "I know you two are busy an all, I am still trying to find something to get into to help the House. How does anyone take house Nellens seriously? They don't even respect their Dynast as they should, let them grovel over crumbs. I think we need someone smart to get us as much the income as possible out of the entire ordeal. There are better uses for the use of jade then giving it all to a such a Scavenger like House as the Nellens, well at least they shouldn't get so powerful as to try for the throne! I can see why grandmother is all into getting someone to head over there. Come to think of it.." pause as she finishes her drink. "I am confident I am the right one for the task, besides I've gotten restless of late, I need to stand on some new soil for a moment."


She raises, "Well cousins, I would be much appreciative if I can have both of your support as I propose tonight?"

 

[DreamingofRoses]

Nellens Zanaiya


Her face softens and she hugs Xandra back, stroking her hair soothingly for a moment. "Did you forget what House we are, Xan? It's...a surprisingly good opportunity, considering we get to represent the Realm." A teasing smirk crosses her face. "Of course I will. After all, who else will make sure your robe isn't inside out?" She kisses her sister's forehead and pulls back, "Now, since you made this mess, you are going to help the servants clean it up. And then we can start getting ready. We have a week to prepare and pack."

 

[Darsk]

Tamara of house Tepet


Having been ordered to go to Wavecrest made Tamara uneasy, he had grown up in that country and he had many fond memories from his childhood that he knew would be spoiled when he returned. It was going to be tough to go back home and secure an alliance that most likely made the nation a puppet of the Empire but the nation would benfit from the arrangement, that much he had to believe. They would gain protection from the skullport influence... And he knew just how bad it was to deal with the dead after all and that was probably why he'd been sent by house Tepet to this weeding. To secure it and to advance his knowledge of the dark powers.


He did, however, have at last a few days before that happened and he could allow himself to enjoy being on the sea again. Looking at the other dragon blooded he introduced himself "Tamara of house Tepet" and offered his hand and then continued "So, what do we know of the bride? I have not heard anyting about her and I'd like to know who I'm protecting with my life..."

 

[Crocodile]

Ledaal Mithras


Mithras lazed back shirtless as usual with his Old Realm tattoos on full display along his strong frame. His arm currently around the shoulders of a legion soldier he'd taken an interest in. He'd developed a reputation for having a taste in mortals of either gender if only to conceal his various lovers were often being recruited to serve in his own vast web of agents and informants. This one he wanted for both reasons if only to keep up appearances, but more so his deployment coming up would possibly net him some new intelligence on some undead activity. Like many of his House, Mithras had a growing concern of the actions of certain undead beings.


"You know, Fayd, your welcome to join us later if you'd like," Mithras offered with one of his more debaucherous smiles.


His gaze shifting to the old man and his request to join them, interrupting his antics. He tuts and whispers into the legionnaire's eager, promising a bit of fun later before sending him off. When he looks back at the old man he gestures to one of the open seats.


"I have no objections on my part," Mithras said as he drank from his tankard.

 

[Sherwood]

Karasu


Your two cousins nod. "We need to have a Mnemon there to make sure that these amateur league hicks don't ruin our chances to get a piece of that fortune. I'm sure that mother will be able to pull some strings with those that hold the pursestrings to get you on the trip." Gu leans over and whispers in a more conspiratorial way, "But be careful. If the wedding doesn't go through with the Nellens girl, you are cute enough that the prince might just want to snap you up! How funny would that be! Hahaha!"


It doesn't take long for you to make the arrangements to meet the wedding party out at Eagles Launch to sail on the luxury ship across the ocean to Wavecrest. After doing some asking around, you hear that the party is going to be loading up a Warstrider as a dowry gift to the islanders. House Nellens seems to be taking this wedding quite seriously.


Zanaiya





Xandra looks around at the devastation of her room and has a blush cross her features. "I guess I kinda overreacted, didn't I? Perhaps I should have been a Fire Aspect with as quick-tempered I am. I just have to keep a positive outlook on this." She bends over and picks up a piece of a broken vase. "It could be in the middle of the desert, right? At least its a island, where there is plenty of water for me to swim in."


Mithras





The stranger nods in appreciation, then signals the bar maid to bring a tankard as he sits. He spends about an hour there, having a casual conversation with you until he decides that it is time for him to be on his way. The man tosses a handful of coins on the table to pay his part of the bill and heads for the door, but a keen eye can notice that he has left a small envelope on his seat, well out of sight to the rest of the room. It is a simple action to slip it into your hand and read it. Apparently, there is a wedding taking place between a Dynast of House Nellens and a noble in Wavecrest that you are to look after. It is imperative that the wedding takes place to seal a treaty between the Blessed Isle and the smaller island nation, to keep Skullstone and Coral from getting their claws into the supply of jade that has been discovered. Arrangements have been made for you to sail from Eagles Launch on the West coast of the Isle with the wedding party, all you have to do is get there on time to catch the boat.

 

[Phyre]

Karasu


The second Gu mentioned Karasu being possibly pursued if the wedding plans fail through, Karasu looked at him as if he lost his mind. "The prince is lucky to have any exalt willing to marry him. Besides, don't wish that bad word of marriage on me. Hopefully none of the other houses find me as a suitable wife, why else did you think I went to the Heptagram for?"


Once Karasu knows she has secured her invitation, heads out to the local market. As usual she goes about covering her dress with a large cowl hooded cloak, her purpose is to find a tailor to make her some new dresses for the occasion. She thinks five fine kimono's, a couple of boots, a few sandals, several dinner gowns. A travel cloak as well as three other silk cloaks of fine design. She is welling to pay for some but hopes to find a few tailors willing to produce some items for free, in return for her favor in the future.


For traveling purposes she requests specific water and air hearthstones (see her character sheet). Karasu will spend most of her time up to leaving at the libraries researching about what she can on Wavecrest, Skullstone, and Coral. The last thing she wants is not knowing anything about where she is going. If she can get details on the Prince of Wavecrest and his family she will look into that, as well as the bride to be. She would also like a list showing all the dynast representatives going. She likes to know about who she will be travelling with. Karasu also wants to research ancient lores of Wavecreast to narrow possible areas to begin her own digs.


Karasu will make arrangements for most of the things she will be bringing to be loaded on the luxury ship so that she can arrive with only carrying her most personal items on her person.

 

[Sherwood]

Karasu





When you look over the list of Exalts heading to the wedding, you are at least familiar with all of them, even having met a few during various dinner parties and get-togethers that you have been to. There is a Immaculate Order priestess that is going to be traveling with the bridal party; a Air Aspect monk named Tomiko. She is a rarity among Dragon Blooded in the fact that she has forsaken any claim to a House, and right now, you are even having trouble finding any information on what House she may be from. When asked, the monk says that she serves the Holy Dragons, and they do not recognize anything as prosaic as a House or other Terrestrial Bloodline. Some suspect that she is a Lost Egg that is from somewhere in the Threshold, and that is one reason why she has gone with the 'I serve the Dragons' schtick. You do know that she has spent some time at the Heptagram, and has learned at least the basics of Terrestrial level Sorcery. Other than that, Tomiko is a bit of a mystery, even though she is quite famous in the Immaculate Order.


Your time in the market is quite successful, and your bank account certainly feels the pinch of so many purchases. It was well worth it, though. With some of your dresses, you will probably out-shine that silly Nellens girl on more than one occasion.

 

[Phyre]

Karasu


(Thoughts)This monk Tomiko has got my interest. Her position as not representing any house as her own is perplexing for me. I will make it a goal to watch her closely. I am beginning to feel that this wedding is very precarious and that it may not go as smoothly as planned. King Roland apparently is weak and his brother Duncon and the Admiral of the Wavecreast Army I don't trust. Since I am now getting suspect of this entire ordeal my plan is simple, watch them all as best I can, keeping my guard up as best I can. The most troubling though is the Skullstone Ambassador, Voice That Whispers in The Heart of Darkness. Not only is his threat level uncertain, I think such a "pirate" could be prone to attempting to sabotage the wedding. Mental note to self, see if Cathok Wen has any intelligence on those, that have been or are currently against the alliance with the Realm when an opportunity presents itself once I arrive on the island.


After getting a good amount of rest, Karasu will prepare for a special incantation that must begin promptly at sundown. Since she cannot be disturbed and won't complete the spell until midnight she will make sure that no one disturbs her until the sun nears mid-day tomorrow. three hours before sundown Karasu eats a light meal of fresh fruits, a few thin slices of beef and a couple small pieces of cheese. She completes her meal with a small glass of water and politely excuses herself from the family and servants of the manse. She heads to take a soothing hot bath, with rose petals for both fragrance and the beauty of the petals twirling within the water. Just before ending the bath Karasu shaves unwanted body hair. She uses no perfumes, just an unscented lotion that was given to her after exalting. She wraps herself in a silk brown long hooded robe. The robe are long enough that the edges touches the floor. She doesn't need any other clothing underneath.


Karasu heads out of her room, deep in thought, she needs total dedication and strength of will to pull this spell off. She turns down a long corridor where several of private rooms for sorcery is held. The door she wants has all the extra supplies she demanded form this areas personal staff to bring. She opens the door, and bends down grabbing the requested materials. Once inside the room she closes and bolts the door. Tonight will be a trying ordeal.


 
Karasu begins with the required tools and starts placing both a summoning and protection circle leaving a portion of the protection circle undone.. She places incense, candles, and symbolic objects all in their proper places. Just prior to sundown she lights all the candles and incense. The sorceress walks into the protection circle and completes the circle's drawing. Karasu, sets all other thoughts from her mind and begins shaping her Terrestrial Circle Sorcery. As she spends the necessary energy of essence and commits her will to the the specific spell. The expenditure of so much essence in such a short time erupts her anima in white and yellow lights glittering about her like that of gems and an image of a giant white stone obelisk appears to briefly appears around her. The sound of the earth rumbles loudly. As quick as the obelisk and rumbling sprang to existence it is gone. Only the yellow and white glittering remains gleaming brightly as she utters in Old Realm, "Demon of the First Circle." She then continues speaking in the remaining required words specifying that she will an Erymanthoi to heed her call. Once the final words are spoke Karasu stays focused on forcing her spell into existence. She stands motionless her face looking up to the ceiling, arms outstretched with her palms facing up. Periodically chanting Erymanthoi. Karasu continues her spell to midnight, when a green light the size of a pebble that rapidly grows to cover the height of the room and widens to nearly the width as well. Her chanting completed, the portal shimmers its sickly green color that supposedly is the light coming from the sun of Malfeas. The enchantress mouth closed when the portal begin to open. Her arms finally allowed to fall to her side, she braces herself in the stillness. Moments pass, how much time she is unsure but eventually begins to smell a fetid order of old blood. Minutes later the hulking form of an apelike creature with dull red fur and horny protrusions along it's head and back comes through the mystical window.


[ The frail looking women prepares herself for a battle of wills. Her plan is to bind the demon to servitude. She wants a bodyguard with her and she plans to hold the demon to it for no less than a year and a day. She requires the demon to remain de-materialized at all times except under two conditions. One if she requires its physical presence she will demand so. The only other condition is at any moment a being attempts to do her physical harm with the intent to maim or kill. The demon is to do as she says at all times, if she doesn't state other wise it is expected to stay near her, but far enough away that she can not smell it at all possible times, baring obvious danger when the creature should stay near enough to protect her. If anytime a being attempts to kill Karasu she expects the demon to kill the being, unless she specifically states other wise. It must be prepared to hold itself back when demanded to not kill or continue attacking. In return during the creature service all kills it makes may be feed upon freely and when the creature does well she will ensure it is given fresh blood when she deems fitting.]


The vicious looking creature speaks in High Realm demanding to know why it has been disturbed!

 

[Sherwood]

The summoning proceeds without any trouble. The vast preparations you went through prior to the summoning ritual aided you in your battle of wills with the creature from Malfias. After only a perfunctory attempt at resistance, the demon succumbs to your wishes, especially with the promise of blood and death at its hands of those that would seek to harm you. Now bound to you, the Blood Ape fades from normal view as it dematerializes and takes its position hovering in the air next to you.

Spoiler

Thats quite the description of your prep work. So long as you do not go into crazyland with how many demons you wish to summon, I'm not going to complain of you having one at your beck and call. Counting this as a three die stunt for the complexity you went into, you have no difficulty beating the demon in this occasion. Good posting, btw!

 

[Sherwood]

It is a bright, sunny day when the sailing vessel Ocean Pearl pulls into the harbor at Eagle's Launch. As the large vessel slowly works her way into the dock, Xandra can be found standing at the prow of the ship, watching the activity on the shore. By this time, everyone traveling overland has arrived, and with the few Exalts onboard the ship, the entire wedding party will now be complete.


From the shore, several people are watching the Ocean Pearl pull in, including Tomiko, the Immaculate Monk that will be performing the wedding ceremony. She is standing with a pair of retainers, also from the IO, that will be assisting her in the preparations for the wedding, including teaching Xandra the details of who's who in Wavecrest.


The captain of the Pearl is a Fire Aspect Exalt from House Cathak named Roogan that has found his vocation on the open seas. He is a gruff man with his crew, but has been very respectful of Xandra and her sister Zanaiya, and polite of the other Exalts that have been sailing with him from their various departure points on the Blessed Isle. He looks over at his lieutenant, "Take care of loading our cargo while I see to our guests. Make sure that everything is well secured for the heavy seas." "Yessir!" With that, Roogan goes to the gangway plank to be the first to greet the members of the wedding party.


As Tomiko comes onboard, Roogan takes her hand and helps her take the last few steps. "Ah! I am truly a lucky man to be sailing with so many lovely ladies! My dear, I am honored to have you on the Ocean Pearl."


"Thank you, captain. Such flattery. You have a wonderful ship! I have never seen such a vessel before."


"She is a First Age design, and despite her size, she is remarkably fast."


"I look forward to seeing what she can do. Tell me, Captain Roogan. Do you have a shrine onboard to the Dragons? If you don't mind, I would like to perform a blessing on your ship for the voyage."


He nods. "Of course. I will have the crew assemble once the cargo is loaded and secured, and all of our passengers are accounted for."


Speaking of cargo, along with the needed supplies of food and fresh water, a gleaming Warstrider equipped with a massive jade daiklave and a Essence Cannon on its shoulder is being swung over the railing of the ship and is slowly lowered down into the midships cargo hold. From what everyone that is a part of the wedding party has heard, this is a gift to the people of Wavecrest as a dowry for Xandra. Truly a priceless gift.


Cathak Roogan makes a point to greet each of you as you come onboard, offering his own personal greeting as you step onto the deck for the first time. The men get a firm handshake and the ladies are given a gentle kiss on the back of the hand, and even the servants and retainers are given a polite welcome from him. He says, "For those that are not used to such a ship, I must warn you that your cabins are somewhat small, since it is expected that you will be spending most of your time up on the deck enjoying the fresh sea air." Each of the Exalts have their own sleeping chamber, while the servants are sent aft to a bunkroom large enough to house them all.


It takes roughly a half hour for all the gear to be stowed away and secured well enough to keep it from bashing the ship to pieces if you run into rough waves. During this time, Tomiko is preparing the small shrine to the Dragons on the wheel deck for her blessing. It is a simple ritual, but one that has been observed for many hundreds of years to call upon the favor of the Elemental Dragons for good weather and smooth sailing. Everyone knows the words of the blessing, but far from being boring, Tomiko's enthusiasm and religious fervor make the ceremony upbeat and very positive. It is clear that she is a true believer in the teachings; probably why she was chosen for such an important role in this treaty.


Now that the ceremony has ended and things have calmed down from the chaos of everyone and their belongings getting loaded onto the ship, you have time to look over the fine vessel. For those that are interested, make a Perception + Awareness roll for any details that you might be able to spot.


Preparing to escort your ship is a smaller but more heavily constructed ship that will be housing the honor guard of twenty five soldiers from House Nellens. All are mortal, but they have all been hand picked by House Nellens for their good standing and loyalty to attend to the security needs of Xandra.

 

[Phyre]

Karasu


My short height and shapely body stands out as I approaches Ocean Pearl. I'm wrapped in a large cloak, red in color with the hood drawn over my head. Some of my Platinum locks extends beyond the covering. You can see the lower half of my pale flawless grey-white skin of my face exposed, red lips shine from the gloss. Different pieces of a black kimono with red and white accents are uncovered from the wind and my own graceful stride. On my neck a beautifully designed golden chain holds a jade amulet of shaped like a pyramid, parts of a shimmering opalescent blue orb encased inside can be seen. My small delicate hands appear empty, yet a giant Reaver Daiklaive carried on my back stands out, the ornate jade hilt is mostly wrapped in black leather ending in an empty talon.


Invisibly maybe 5 yards behind is my extra-dimensional servant "Niumowang" (as I have begun calling him) in tow. When I get to the base of the entry ramp i hesitate to get a grip on the fact I am still uncomfortable getting on vessels in large bodies of water. Although it seems like an hour I stand there stiff as a statue, yet it has only been five to ten seconds. I begin my way up the ramp, as I reach the captain and extend my hand I look up exposing my face to him, the bright red eyes of mines contrasting with my pale hair and skin take notice of his looks. With a perfect smile and a curtly bend I wait for him to introduce himself and graciously allows him to kiss my hand. When he says Cathak my mind wonders of the materials used to construct this ship and how well Roogan has a grip on anger management. Coming out of my drift, I sputter out, "Good day Captain Roogan, I feel at ease knowing this ship and our lives are in excellent hands. It would be wonderful if you could have someone show me to my room. I would like to get familiar with it and place a few things within. "


During this time I won't be approaching anyone but will politely address those who initiate any contact with me. Instead I will respectfully cut any long conversations short and get to my cabin as soon as I can (without running). Once inside the room I will place Justice Beyond Earthly Reasons, in the middle of the bed instructing Niumowang to guard it with his life. I then find something to cover any windows up, the last thing I really want to see is any water, though I conquered my childhood fear, I still remain uncomfortable in it. After all, rocks sink!


I will attend Tomiko's ceremony, take not of the bride and her entourage and if the princess to be sees me I will be sure to wave. I plan to analyse everyone I can during times we spend at the mess, as well as respectfully introducing myself to my fellow travelers during our first meal together. Outside of that most of my time will be spent in my cabin.

Spoiler

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[DreamingofRoses]

Nellens Zanaiya


Zanaiya had barely slept, spending the days leading up to the departure in a flurry of letter-writing, gathering, packing, herding Xandra, and secretly preparing her own personal gifts to her sister. It is a relief to finally board, since it means most of the organizing is over and the biggest issue is getting herself and Xandra settled into their cabins.


It hadn't been too bad a trip to Eagle's Launch. She can tell that Cathak Roogan, as unusual as it is to see a Fire-aspect at sea, knows his craft well and is the perfect image of respectful. Despite the obvious implication that the treaty is too important to risk on petty House squabbles, there is a knot of tension that unwinds from Zanaiya when she realizes there will be no snide comments about lineage from him. With that concern out of the way, the time at sea, but still near the Blessed Isle, is pleasantly lulling.


She comes above board to stand behind Xandra when they begin to dock at Eagle's Launch, curious about the people who will be joining the wedding party. When the warstrider is loaded Zanaiya is torn between giggling like schoolchild and being absolutely floored by how badly the Realm wants the marriage and alliance to go well. Her resolve to be especially careful of those boarding the ship strengthens as Tomiko prepares the shrine


Following the ceremony, duly impressed with Tomiko's exuberance, Zanaiya pays the various Dragon-blooded who have come aboard as representatives while putting on her best 'make nice' smile, particularly noting a young woman with blonde hair and red eyes. She looks over the ship at the same time, trying to take in as much as she can before she sidles up to her sister. "Are you okay?"

Spoiler

[dice]3665[/dice]

 

[Sherwood]

Xandra lets out a little sigh, then smiles at Zanaiya. "Yeah, I guess so. Its just starting to sink in that I'm not going to be able to see home for another several years. I've never been away for so long. I'm a little . . . depressed, I suppose. But, from what I've been reading, Wavecrest is a nice place to live, and it won't be that long in the overall scheme of things."

 

[Sherwood]

Looking over the beauty of the ship, she is a large, two mast vessel with a pair of paddle wheels on each side. The paddle wheels provide extra speed and more precise maneuvering in tight quarters than would be possible on a ship of this size. The Pearl is a luxury ship, providing a Dynast a comfortable home away from home when traveling by sea. She has many magical amenities not available on other ships, including hot and cold running water and light globes powered by a hearthstone that has been set into the control console. Also, the ship's hull is hardened to withstand damage, the sails are enchanted to be self-regenerating, and a spell has been placed upon them to keep the sails filled with wind no matter what direction the ship is going.


Despite the creature comforts of the Pearl, she also has teeth. There are weapons mounted onboard; two Lightning Ballistas on the stern and a Medium Implosion Bow on the bow, this is in addition to the crew that has a total of two Dragon Blooded among them, and all are trained not only to provide exquisite service to the passengers, but also to protect them from boarders. Undoubtably there are more secrets to this ship, but you will have some time to discover them as you travel to Wavecrest.


Once the blessing ceremony conducted by Tomiko is complete, Captain Roogan gives the order to set sail. At once, the skilled crew leap into action, working with practiced ease to move the large vessel out from the pier and out to sea. For those with any skill in Sail will be impressed with the quality of the crew and how well they work together without having to say more than a word or two to each other. Roogan does not shower praise on his people; instead he gives a satisfied nod and a slight smile at the performance of his people.


At this point, he turns to the gathered Exalts on deck. "Dear guests, it would be my pleasure to offer you the hospitality of my table for dinner this evening. Just let my exec know what you would like to eat, and he will have the chefs prepare your meal for you. If you would prefer to dine in the privacy of your cabins, do not feel that you will offer me any insult. Sometimes, after a long journey, all one wants is to settle in and have some peace and quiet."


After reaching open water, Xandra makes her way aft and stands at the rail, looking back at the slowly fading cliffs of the Blessed Isle. If anyone heads back to stand with her, she is quiet unless addressed as she watches the land fade away behind the ship.

 

[Crocodile]

Mithras boarded the vessel, his red coat shifting about his broad shoulders while he regarded the events playing out. He had his instructions and hopefully he'd have his resources in. His own small entourage coming aboard with him of his various personal agents agents and servants. Every one of them personally loyal to himself and his network. It was a curious thing to be sent out here but he felt a thrill at the challenge. Something to put his own formidable mind to work on.


The Realm needed this wedding to work, to have the chance to gain new resources. More so though, this would let him grow his own power base more. His loyalty above all was to the Realm, and he dreaded things he'd heard whispered of late between his fellow House members. The Dead were restless more and more and some ghosts were proving to be... dangerous. The Realm hadn't recognized the threat yet, but perhaps here would be a chance for all to see the dire foes aligning against the Scarlet Dynasty.


Obviously it also would make him more powerful but House Ledaal wasn't seeking the throne. They had more important things to do like protect Creation from the dark powers. Thus he spoke the prayer with deep conviction at the ceremony, even while eyeing those present. Sizing up his fellow Dragonblooded, wondering if any of them might enjoy a bit of fun. If not there were plenty of mortals to amuse him. Mithras never concealed his appetite, reveling in it to disguise his true purposes. His eyes sweep about the ship, trying to assess everything he could.

Spoiler

[dice]3752[/dice]

 

[Phyre]

Karasu


"I accept your hospitality Captain Roogan and shall see you all tonight." Eyeing the bride I will follow her, noticing the crew as they explode into work. As usual I most of my face and hair remains hidden by the red hood. I will not stand as close to the ledge as my previous actions on this ship, it is more out of habit now than fear. Giving her some time and analyzing her body language for a few minutes. "So....Nellans Xandra, are you that excited for the wedding, or is it something else that occupies your mind?"

 

[Sherwood]

As Mithras looks about, there are several mortal women of the crew that catch his eye, along with several of Dynast ladies that have come onboard. Very nice eye candy. Perhaps one of them will be willing to provide you with some distraction from the long sea voyage to Wavecrest.


Karasu finds Xandra at the aft end of the ship, watching the rocky shores of the Blessed Isle fade away from sight. She looks up and smiles at you. "Oh, of course I'm excited. This is the first time I have ever been to Wavecrest, and I look forward to performing my duty for my House and my country. Tomiko is here to help instruct me on the movers and shakers of the island chain, so when we arrive I will have an idea of what to expect from my fiancee." Her body language and facial expression indicates no dishonesty, so either she is truly excited at this wedding or she has been well trained in maintaining a poker face.

 

[Phyre]

Karasu


"Well you look beautiful and I am sure that your duties will be fulfilled for your family. I am sure this wedding will be wonderful and all your hard work of preparation will be well worth it. Do you intend to dine with the Captain and guess this evening, I am sure it will prove very entertaining." I will continue to chat for a bit, trying to get to know this woman who would be princess. I won't pry to far just ask general questions and will leave her alone way before she tires of me. I will then head back to my room to mediate and wait for this evening dinner.


I will look for a way to take a bath and change up with a nice evening gown. Hoping to learn a lot from our guess.


When I leave from my small chat with Xandra. I will smile at Mithras, as he looks about wondering for carnal entertainment. "Hi, best of luck with you search Leedal. Hope you have more to offer to this voyage. Have a good day." I will slowly walk by, cloths brushing against him. He can watch me as I walk past continuing to my room.

 

[Sherwood]

As Karasu walks off, Tomiko comes walking up. She smiles at Mithras as he greets her. "Oh, my! Quite the charmer we have here! I'll have to watch myself with you, good sir! Now then, let me see the star of our show; our bride to be. Greetings and well met, Nellens Xandra! I have heard so much about you, and I'm looking forward to getting to know you better over the next several months before your wedding takes place." Xandra smiles, too. "I'm sure we'll be very good friends by the time the wedding takes place."


The ladies begin to chat, getting to know each other as the ship sails on.