Fantasy Iridia- The Golden Kingdom

[LostPrimarch]

Lumina, Capital city of Iridia.

As the sun reached its midday apex the capital cities white marble structures seemed to gleam in the suns glow, the massive statues overlooking the streets below seemed to catch the majority of the suns rays and cast them on the populous below. The sight surly was beautiful, but those who could sense magic would find the gorgeous gem of the city a bit unnerving, after all it was radiating magical power. Of course it often was as the base of operations for the mage corps was in this city, but on this day the heads of the seven noble families were there, their unique magics just as potent and powerful as the combined might of the mage corps, not to mention the upwards of four hundred golden knights stationed there a number which grew with each passing hour as more came from further out. Already this maddening surge of powerful people to the city had been going on for two days and no one could really put a finger on when it would end. The air smelled of delicious foods, merchants were hard at work peddling their wares to the younger nobles, the hired hands, and many sought to purchase valuable exotic items from the golden knights as they returned from their arduous journeys across virgin lands, and of course facing the harsh beasts and wonders of the still untamed east. But this is not the story of merchants and common folk, nor the story of kings and Nobles. This is a tale of legends, mighty figures whose names will be remembered long after this story reaches its conclusion, for destiny itself has touched a select few and their deeds will shape the tapestry of history.
~~~
Kyriss Shendoa, Frostborn Noble.

As the caravan came to a creaking stop outside the gates a few guards approached the rider at the head of the group. “Please provide a charter of your goods and passengers.” The guard would ask kindly. On the other side of the rider would be another guard with two more stationed within the guard hut which was built into the left side of the wall. While it may have seemed like relatively lax security for the current situation it was the unseen that was cause for concern, for you see atop the wall, nearly sixty feet above the gate and the guards were two golden knights their keen ears hearing every word spoken, and their eyes surveying each caravan that entered looking for a sign of trouble at which point they would descend with a fury and force that had made their title feared throughout the lands.

Luckily they seemed to see no problem with the Shendoa caravan. As the rider and the guard spoke the young Lady Kyriss would poke her head out from inside the wagon. Just as the rider passed the charter to the guard. Her voice would still hold the tone of the yawn she had just let out. “Have we finally arrived? It truly felt like an eternity.” She stated and at nearly the same moment the guard read her name off the charter. “Lady Shendoa!?! Such an honor!!! Forgive me ma’am but i am under strict orders to hold you here briefly, your uncle asked me to message him upon your arrival, he wishes to escort you personally. Please ma’am i know its outside of protocol and you need not heed my orders, but Lord Hyde asked nonetheless.” The guard spoke almost the entire sentence which fumbling with his pike to make a salute without it falling to the ground. Kyriss simply smiled. “Of course he did…I shall wait for him. May my escorts continue to the palace? I am certain they are just as eager as i am to be done with this journey.” The guard nodded and gestured to the two in the guard shack to open the gate. “You may wait in the shack if you’d like milady, it is a hot day especially for you id imagine.” Kyriss would smile all the wider and make her way towards the door he pointed to, after all it was hot and she could already feel her hair growing heavier with sweat despite yer limited time in the sun. “Thank you Sir, you are too kind.” She stated before closing the door behind her.
~~~

Knight Commander, Obhad Nahreel.

The old Knight sat crosslegged in the center of his room with his right eye closed and the pearl that sat in his left eye socket shimmering with pearlescent magical light. While his body may have been here the ancient warriors mind was elsewhere. Two kilometers above the capitol to be exact. From his high vantage point he could identify the market portions of the city where one of his ravens had just spotted his target. It shouldn’t have been so difficult for him to find a person but with all the crowds he found himself often having to look closer, besides a busy woman was rarely occupying the same space for long. Nonetheless as he pushed his disembodied field of vision towards the market district he did see his target. Nava was her name, a young herbalist and physician, likely not the greatest in the kingdom, but nonetheless she was beholden to none of the noble families, had no ties to the throne, and even seemed to be free of any sort of legal trouble. A perfect example of exactly what he needed. He had already tasked his own personal expert mages with checking the kings body for any signs of magic being used on him, and barring a eh bedroom performance enhancing enchantment the king seemed curse or magic free. The Spymaster Kyrie already had her agents meticulously study the kings corpse and they confirmed there was no foul play they could spot, not so much as a tiny pinprick could be found on his person and he lacked any signs of poison. It was Kyrie who then suggested he employ a physician to see if there was perhaps natural causes after all, and while Obhad had his doubts he couldn’t argue with her logic.

He noted the direction she was going, it seemed she was heading in the the same westward direction that her small shop was and he decided that must be where she was, if not then Fen could still track her down if they were that close. Within a fraction of a second of making that decision his pearl would stop glowing and his field of vision would rocket back to his body as he opened his eye and began to rise. The moment a movement was detected the large furry head of the wolf in the corner of the room rose with a little questioning yip. “yes fen i have found her, lets go old friend.” Obhad would say as he made his way to the tower window. “Come on boy, you can still keep up right?” The ancient knight said with a smirk earning an excited yip from fen as the wolf finished stretching its back. Without another word he lept out the window, slid down the slanted rooftop landing on the roof of the shorter building directly in the center of the stone walkway built upon the apex of every roof in the city. Walkways meant for the golden knights to quickly navigate the city free of obstructions like civilians and shops, though still a structure appreciated by the gutter and chimney cleaners. Obhad remained still for a moment ensuring that he heard the soft thud of Fen making the landing behind him before he continued towards the market district on the pathways, occasionally he would have to leap the gap between buildings, the particularly long gaps he would only hold out his arm in a loop and fen would leap into the mans arms so he could cover the gap for the two of them. All together their trip would cover nearly seven miles of cityscape and the duo completed it in just under two minutes, a slow pace for a golden knight, but a respectable one for a wolf. With a notably flair less landing outside the herbalist shop Obhad would pivot on his heel and raise his fingers to deliver three loud but not threatening knocks to the door.

Skyrte niqlo Crooked Edric Blight noxrequiem 4scorelightnings Megalodon20157 SharkBark

Mentioned (Kyrie Canelo)
Interactions (Nava)​

 

[SharkBark]

*Backstreets of Lumina, Iridia -- Apollo Kingstriker *​

One hit. That's all it should've taken to incapacitate them. But, here Apollo is, swinging endlessly while trying to take down this crook. He didn't expect them to be this fast. The 6'2 man with a decent build easily evades or blocks Apollo's attacks. Apollo had amazing speed but, he didn't feel like trying right now. "This..this is a bit troublesome." Apollo says in a dull tone. Sighing, he hesitantly switches to a sideways stance. Taekwondo. Not particularly his favorite style but, it allows him to fight from mid range. Swiftly, Apollo attempts a low leg sweep but the crook retaliates by jumping back. This guy had height, that's not really a problem. Speed? Maybe. Muscle? Kinda. But all three? Seriously? Pick one. For a human, that's just unnatural.

Now, Apollo was getting impatient. He had heard someone cry out while he was patrolling and expected a quick one punch job. Now, he's late for a report to Obhad. "Honestly, you should've just given up." Apollo tells him blatantly. Giving him an angry look, the crook yells at him in another language. "What?" Apollo asks. "I don't understand you. I mean, I know a ton of languages but, I don't have the time to try to recall them." The man continues yelling at Apollo, now dropping his hands from his defensive stance. There it is. That was a mistake. With ease, Apollo does a spinning hook kick and slams his heel into the man's jaw mid sentence, breaking his jaw and knocking him to the side. The man slams onto the floor yelling in pain and clutching his mouth. Now, even if he did speak English, Apollo still wouldn't understand it. "See, I tried to warn you. Anyways, someone will come and arrest you. So, could you not run away? In fact," Apollo chops the back of the crook's neck, immediately knocking him unconscious.

Apollo checks the man's pockets and finds a ruby emerald. It's probably what he had stolen. He walks back to the woman who had cried out, making her flinch when he gets there. "Here." He throws the emerald to her and then quickly walks off. "P-Please take this oh, Great Knight." The woman says from behind him, holding the emerald out to him. "Lady, I don't want this." he says, but still, she walks over to him and puts it into his hands. She then bolts off, blushing intensely. This is all but enough to make Apollo shake his head. What did she think this would do? Make him respect her? Or maybe she was expecting him to give her something? How naive. He didn't understand humans, even though he wished he did. Either way, he could just give the emerald to a merchant, maybe they'd make good use of this.

*Obhad Nahreel's Room -- Lumina, Iridia*
​

Apollo knocks softly on Commander Obhad's room door. He was late but, Commander Obdah probably already knew that. His forethought was phenomenal. "Commander? It's me, Apollo." He says through the door. "I apologize for being late. I got caught up with a criminal." Apollo waited for a response. Nothing. Slowly, Apollo cracks the door open. "Commander?" Looking around the room, Apollo sees that he's gone. Weird. He rarely leaves the room. Closing the door behind him, Apollo enters the room and sits on small chair. Might as well wait for him to come back.

Obhad's room was extremely interesting. He had many ancient relics and weapon. Anyone would have all this if they had been alive for 1017 years. Damn, he's old.

 

[Megalodon20157]

Howard Livingston, Army soldier

As I sit on this barstool waiting for my drink to come. The whole bar was echoing with rumors of King Borgio's death. I just love hearing them roar. "He was poisoned for sure. Many people wanted that king dead." said the lady maiden passing drinks around. A smile appears on my face. All they talk about is the king, who cares about him. All he did was pleasure himself with the power of a king, only caring about himself instead of the people. For what it's worth, Borgio had it coming to him. I do have to say his death is a bit of a mystery. Powerful people can take this opportunity into their own hands. Someone could become king, or whatever noble there is these days can come into power. All I want is my drink. I have been having these headaches every day, probably because I didn't get one good night's sleep. Something warm was placed on my left shoulder and a drink appeared on the counter in front of me. My head turns to the left. I see the maiden looking at me with a smile. Maiden moves her hand down to my left thigh and leaves it there. “You seem, tired soldier, the room costs 10 gold pieces and 20 if you need company.” The maiden said with a wink. I look into my pounce and grab out 30 gold pieces. I give it to the lady. "The drink is what I came here for lady." I spoke. I grab ahold of my drink and walk out of the bar.

After some time of walking, I’ve finally seen the gate I was supposed to guard. I do not want to hear from the guard about why I am missing during my duties. I wish to drink in peace. Looking around me, all I could see me drinking privately was the shack. Walking towards the door of the shack and opening the door, then I turn around and close the door behind me. Thank God I’m all by myself. A gasp I heard behind me. I turn around to see a lady. She looks rich from her attire, like a noble. I wonder who she is.

Interactions: LostPrimarch (Kyriss Shendoa)

 

[Skyrte]

Sol Redthorn /// Cenehar Allisec
Iridian Capital Gates​

Cenehar held his bandaged arm against his body, he had to fight back tears for the few hours, having never been hurt like that before. But he felt proud of himself, and he noticed something in most of his bodyguards. Their tones became more respectful, they had become more accommodating, when they first started this journey he was just the son of Lord Aleksey, and now... he had proved something to them. Cenehar honestly wasn't sure what, but it was something that his father must have proved to them as well, a long time ago. He felt proud of himself, but also concerned, for his Guard-Captain. Sol Redthorn was an odd, but friendly man. He listened and considered Cenehar's thoughts, and the two often conversed about history, magical theory, and a whole host of topics as they traveled together. It seemed like Sol was a bit of a scholar, like Cenehar, and that brought a smile to his face. But Centurion Sol Redthorn had allowed him to be injured, and he could only imagine the cold fury his father would have for Sol upon hearing the news.

Solana Allisec was at the head of the pack of six travelers, she felt... concerned... and proud, and... it was complicated. It had taken her a while to identify those feelings. Proud, because Cenehar had shown great bravery and concern for those under him, concerned because he was going into the den of snakes known as the Capital, and that he had been hurt.
She had been asked by Lord Aleksey to watch over his son, Cenehar, to make sure he could stand on his own, and to make sure he didn't get hurt too bad. After hearing what he was like from his father, Solana had fully expected Cenehar to flee when that band of robbers showed their faces...

Sol said it would take about five days of hard travel to get to the Capital, so Cenehar and his group packed light. Only essentials, and on six horses, no carriages. Cenehar remembered his riding lessons, having not been too long ago, but the House Allisec Guardsmen and Centurion Sol must have been riding horses for years. That thought made Cenehar a little apprehensive, and he had hoped he wouldn't be too slow for them. But his fears were cast away once they actually got going. Sol had seen his inexperience with travel, and instead of staring in disgust, or admonishing the young Noble, or laughing at him, Sol had instructed him. Shown him how to more easily mount and dismount his horse, how to set up a tent, and how to create and maintain a campfire. The other four Guardsmen watched in amusement, sometimes offering their own advice or experiences. And honestly, Cenehar thought the trip was rather quite fun.

Until mid day on the third day. Riding through a patch of forest, they were stopped by a group of three ragged men with weapons. They declared that they were being robbed, to which one of the Guardsmen behind Cenehar stifled a laugh. What truly stifled his laughter though, was Sol revealing that it was not just three robbers. They were bracketed by a total of thirty. Cenehar had honestly no idea what the band of robbers were thinking, they were all wearing the crimson red of House Allisec, one of the more militant of the Noble families, with the lion crest on their cloaks and buckles. There was no mistaking that they were nobility from House Allisec. It was said that a single Guardsman of House Allisec was worth five men alone, were they so desperate? Or... were they ignorant? Cenehar's thoughts were broken by the collective shout of 30 men, who rushed at them from the foliage and trees. Terror filled Cenehar as he gripped the reigns of his horse tighter, but his four Guards dashed forward, making a circle around Cenehar. Sol himself had dismounted and sent his horse away to safety, positioning himself just a few feet away from Cenehar's protective circle. The robbers had mostly polearms, spears with hooks, large axes, weapons designed for reach, to take down men on horses. Cenehar and his four guards were men on horses. And Sol had just made himself an easy target by dismounting.

Around Cenehar, the battle had already commenced, Sol was dueling six robbers on his own with his spear, and his four guards were expertly parrying attempted blows, until one of them didn't. A hooked spear snuck up on Guardsman Gavirn, catching on his pauldron, and he was pulled down into the dirt.
He glanced back down the road, seeing that was open, he could flee but...
"Agh!"
Cenehar looked to the source of the shout and clatter of armor against dirt, seeing Gavirn on the ground. A robber with a dagger was already leaping onto him, ready to plunge the knife into the gaps between Gavirn's armor. No! Cenehar found his body reacting before he could command it, and he leapt off his horse, colliding with the dagger armed robber midair, the both of them tumbling to the ground. Cenehar scrambled off his back, seeing that a second robber already had a sword bearing down on him. He screamed, and threw his hands up. The blade cut into his left forearm, and pain seared into his body. He screamed again, not in terror, but in pain, and when he finally forced his eyes open, he saw Sol in front of him. His spear had been pushed through three robbers, piercing their torsos, and Sol was mid leap, warhammer in one hand, dagger in the other, burying both into enemy combatants. Cenehar would have stared in awe, if it were not for the pain. What Sol did must have terrified the robbers, he started hearing shouts of fear, and the robbers scattered into the forest. His guards did not pursue, and almost immediately, Sol had put down his weapons, and had knelt down next to him with a rolled bandage in one hand, and a small pot of salve with the other.

Cenehar swore that he would never forget what Sol had said to him, as he was wiping away the blood, applying the healing salve, and wrapping his arm in the clean bandage. Although Cenehar couldn't see Sol's eyes through his helmet, he knew the words were sincere.
"Thank you for saving Gavirn. What you did was brave, braver than most. I'm proud of you."

Now that he was just in front of the gates and tall walls of the Capital, apprehension came back as the reality of where he was going set in. There was even a line of caravans and carriages, and they had all looked clean and proper. And then there was his group. Sol had blood stained armor and robes, he had done his best to wash it out, but some of it just didn't come off. Gavirn's armor was muddied, most of the dirt had been washed off, but Sol made them keep pace, giving him little time to clean. The rest of the guards had a layer of dirt and grime, and Cenehar himself, the young Noble, had bloodied clothes, hadn't bathed in near a week, with a bandage wrapped around his left arm. All in all not very presentable.
Cenehar had his horse walk next to Sol's, bringing him side by side with his Guard-Captain, his... friend?
"I wonder what the other nobles will say. Surely some of them are here waiting in this line like us."
"Most of these caravans are merchants. Don't worry. And don't mind what the other nobles think of you. You know what you think of yourself, that is all that matters, and for the cost of dirtying your clothes, and bleeding a little, you have saved a life. A worthy trade, no?"
Cenehar smiled, "I suppose you are right. How many other nobles can claim they have rescued a man in pitched battle?" He chuckled, "Not very many my age, I can guess."
"You guess correctly. Many young nobles your age are more concerned with appearances and... girls." Sol said, matter of factly. "Still though, we should find a healer in the Capital, your arm should be tended with more than just battlefield medicine."
"To prevent scarring?"
"Yes."
"Don't the girls like scars?" He joked.
"Depends on the girl." Sol replied.
Cenehar smiled at the stoic Guard-Captain, noted that the line moved excruciatingly slow, and while his words helped soothe some of his concerns, he and his entourage still looked like they had marched here straight from a battlefield. Which quite honestly was very close to the truth.

 

[Edric Blight]

*Central Market District - Mitchell Markstrom*

There was a whole lot of buzz surrounding Iridia's newest selected young golden knight. But for now, his higher ups had him laying low for the moment. It was a bit disappointing for the new knight, who thought that'd he'd be stationed somewhere a little bit more "action-packed." The CO for the young golden knight Mitch's assignment today was an older knight named Hyde. Mitchell was stationed in the Central Market District, with Hyde assigned as his commanding officer. Hyde, one of the veteran knights, was a surprisingly relaxed man. It almost seemed as if nothing could possibly bother the guy. He was the definition of "go with the flow." This would be Mitchell's first time as a knight being posted out in a more public area. Here he was well in the view of the public- of the common person. While quite a boring assignment: standing guard in a public market square, Mitch was happy to comply and did as he was told being stationed there. However, deep down inside of him, Mitch truly wished for more. His number one priority right now was to somehow get to the gate. There he believed, would be a much more interesting setting. All day, the desire to go see the palace and the gate bubbled within him as he stood stationed in the market for hours with Hyde.

It was certainly true that Mitchell's appointment as the newest golden knight this year was the talk of the town. It seemed that everyone, from the other golden knights, the soldiers, and even the nobles were talking about Iridia's newest knight. Mitch found the attention to be quite desirable and a bit ego-boosting. Even in the town among commoners, people in the market where Mitch was posted would stop and stare, often hurrying off and whispering various things amongst themselves at the very sight of the new golden knight. Mitch just stood next to his commanding officer, smiling proudly and striking a bold pose. Mitchell just stood there, obediently for a few hours, standing guard in the market where he was stationed . But after a while, the rookie golden knight couldn't help but get restless. He wanted to go to the gate, not to be stuck here amongst the commoners. While he enjoyed the gawking and admiration from the passing by commoners, he wanted to hang around the big guns: the nobles and other more experienced golden knights.

His CO, Hyde, stood casually on guard just a few feet away from him, occasionally looking from side to side. Luckily for the pair of knights, there wasn't much action in the central market today. Mitch could hear Hyde sighing, "Real boring today huh little dude?" said the veteran, crossing his arms as he relaxed himself, leaning against a post. Mitchell looked to his side at his CO, "Y- yes sir, it is." Mitch said, agreeing. Mitch sighed as he tried to keep focus on his task at hand: staying stationed in the market. He felt his feet getting tired from standing in the same general area for a few hours. "Mommy? Is that the new golden knight?" said a voice belonging to a small child. Mitchell looked in front of him and saw a mother with presumably a child that was her son. "Yes it is, now let's leave him to his work," said the older woman, almost hushed as if she didn't want the young knight to know they were looking at him. Mitchell just nodded once and flashed a bold and arrogant smile at the pair, proud to be recognized. The mother and child both stared at Mitch for a while before the mother prodded along her son, out of view of the golden knight.

Eventually, Mitchell could hear the footsteps of someone running up to his CO. It appeared to be one of the lower ranked guards- a messenger boy- with some news for the CO. "Officer sir, Lady Shendoa requests your presence at the gate sir," said the messenger panting, clearly a bit out of breath. Hyde stood up a bit straighter, no longer leaning casually on the pole, as he raised an eyebrow of interest. "Hmm, Lady Shendoa? What for little guy?" asked Hyde. The messenger took this as an opportunity to catch his breath a bit, steeling himself before he finally spoke once more, "She requests that you escort her sir, the nobles are going to meet and she would like if you would accompany her, sir." Hyde nodded as he took his weapon, which was leaning somewhat haphazardly against a pole, and put it in its sheath. "Of course, I'll be right there." Hyde responded, preparing to leave for the gate. Mitch's attention was captured though, and the young knight became a bit jealous that Hyde was getting to leave the post in the market. From just the few hours Mitchell had been stationed with Hyde, he could tell that his new CO was a bit more relaxed and understanding then say some of the other veteran golden knights. He decided he would shoot his shot and ask his CO if he could accompany him. Truthfully, Mitch really wanted to go to the gate and to possibly come into contact with someone from the noble family. Surely, he thought, he would be a big topic of conversation up at the gate amongst the nobles. "Sir?" Mitchell asked, turning towards his CO. Hyde turned to the shorter young knight and looked down at him smiling, "What's up little dude?" Mitch gulped before speaking, "Well sir I was w- wondering if maybe I could accompany you to the gate?"" Mitchell almost winced a bit after asking the question. Hyde just smiled and threw his hands up and shrugged his shoulders, "Well I don't see why not! Ahh what the hell, sure! Come along little man!" Hyde said, gesturing for Mitch to follow him. Mitch smiled with glee and now, with renewed energy, walked with Hyde, eagerly by his CO's side. "Thank you sir!" Mitchell said gratefully as the two golden knights made their way to the gate. Hyde just chuckled and smiled, obviously a lot less hyped than the golden knight to go to the gate and see the nobles, as this was a regular occurrence for him. He could understand the young knight's excitement though to get a first glimpse at the gate and a noble. "Ahh don't mention it little dude! Besides, you've been the talk of the town, I'm sure there's a few nobles that are dying to meet ya." Mitch's eyes went wide with wonder. "Wow," he thought to himself in his head, "the nobles would want to see ME?" Just the pure thought was insanity to him. While he knew he had elevated status as a golden knight, he certainly never thought that he would WANT to be seen or noticed by a noble.

*Approaching the gate - Mitchell Markstrom (and Hyde)*

Eventually, the pair of golden knights reached their destination after walking all the way up from the central market district in a nearby town where they were originally stationed. Mitch's eyes widened in wonder as the great gate came into his view. On the other hand, Hyde looked more casual, certainly not impressed at the sight of the gate as was the younger knight. For him, this was just one of the thousand times in his long life that he had been to the gate. Being the great great great uncle of the noble Kyriss Shendoa, Hyde was well accustomed to making stops to the palace, often being told to escort her to various different places. The two passed a slightly tipsy looking soldier who Mitch assumed was assigned to stand guard at the gate. It was there she stood, the noble Kyriss Shendoa. She was dressed in some of the most beautiful and lavish clothing Mitch had ever seen. His mouth opened slightly in awe as he caught his first glimpse of a noble from the Shendoa family. Mitchell promptly got down on one knee and bowed respectfully, in the presence of the noble. Hyde however, did not do so, and seemed to take a more casual approach when interacting with the noble. Mitch thought it odd, but decided not to speak on it or think on it any further, trusting his more veteran counter part and giving him the benefit of the doubt.

Interactions: (Lady Kyriss Shendoa LostPrimarch )

 

[Megalodon20157]

Howard Livingston, Army soldier
The gates

Great, this is what I need in my life. A noble lady and some golden knights. Can’t my life get any better-- Actually, no. I just want to drink in peace, and this is the thanks I get. I swear the gods and sun goddess curse me with such terrible luck today. I guess it doesn’t matter what I do, things just happen. I was taken by surprise as one of the golden knights was kneeling for this woman. But this knight here said nothing at all to the woman. I mean nothing. The way it looks from here is ridiculous. I take a step closer to the kid. He looks awfully young for some golden knight. Like some child, you find lost. I thought golden knights were always supposed to be old. In my gut, I feel like this kid doesn’t belong here or anywhere in this matter. Hell, when I saw the kid, he was in awe of this noblewoman.
Maybe he is a rookie? He reminds me of every young kid I fought with.

Memories were flooding my mind. I squinted at the pain. All the people I remember are gone! Dead on the battlefield, lying for help and screaming as they bleed out and the pain is unbearable. They scream for me, wanting my help and saving them from their misery. I couldn’t let them die a painful death. I ended their life as the final breath leaves this earth. It was my fault that they were dead. I need to flush these memories out of me. They must leave. Please stop coming back to me. My hands were shaking and seemed to be moving on their own. Bottle in my hand reached my lips. I take a swig of it. I drained the bottle without leaving a single drop behind. Then it stops; no horror of the past comes to haunt me, and I am left with nothing. I threw the bottle on the floor in a fit of rage.

I was furious at this boy. Bringing this suffering back to me. I ran up to him.
“Stand up boy! To be making a fool of yourself in front of this noble! You should be ashamed of yourself. You're nothing but a disappointment to all golden knights!” I scream to this golden knight. I realize what I have done. My body starts to tremble, and my legs give way. I fall to my knees. I couldn’t believe I did this. To say such horrible things to him. I white-knuckle my fights in the air. I continue to shake, and I am lost for words. Both of my eyes look up to stare at the knight I screamed at. Pity has taken over me.

William screams at Mitchell Markstrom
Interactions: Edric Blight (Mitchell Markstrom)

​

 

[BLK]

Gerard Ashcourt
Outside the Capitol Gates, Iridia​

Gerard stood in line, leaning against a small tree. He was waiting before of a cart of rugged travelers, commoners, and merchants waiting to enter the city to peddle their wares. Ahead of him rode a number of clergymen of some kind, likely coming to the city in the wake of the king's recent passing. Their caravan was extravagant and their robes even more so. The stark difference in fortunes struck him. Gerard thought in wonder for a moment, reflecting on the differences between the two and how curious it was that they found themselves in the same line. He thought the gatehouse to be a welcome change of pace despite the inconveniences it posed. Before the gate all were equal. Uniquely Iridian, Gerard said to himself. While wholly incorrect, his idealism kept him happy while waiting in line. Little lies such as those always put his mind at ease.

He was pulled out of his thoughts when he turned to look behind and saw a curious entourage. On foot, as he was, they were clad in bloodstained armor and dirty ragged robes. Almost in defiance of their condition, each haggard traveler carried to crest of House Allisec on their clothes. The six were dressed in the garb of guards with one clearly standing apart as the leader, a nobleman perhaps. They all clearly answered to a lord of some kind. The short one, Gerard guessed. Looking the group down for some time, Gerard was lost in thought as he tried to bring to mind the few Allisecs he knew. Naturally he knew of their Lord and Lady, but he struggled to recall any younger members of their family. Nonetheless he had stared far too long. He had likely been spotted by one of the guards, meaning now was the time to move.

With a soft step he began to approach the group. He cleared his throat loudly, making sure to make his presence obvious to the soldiers well before he was close so as to signal he was not a threat. "Hail, Allisec!" He called, setting a hand over his brooch to try to conceal the Ashcourt crest.
"It is a pleasure to welcome you to the capital." Gerard bowed lightly as he stood ahead of the group. Keeping his head lowered, he awaited a response. It would be unwise to reveal himself before he got a name out of the young nobleman and a fair assessment of beaten bunch. Perhaps he could make something of this chance meeting.

Interactions: Cenehar Allisec, Solana Allisec ( Skyrte )

 

[Skyrte]

Sol Redthorn /// Cenehar Allisec
Iridian Capital Gates
With Gerard Ashcourt ( BLK )​

"Hail, Allisec! It is a pleasure to welcome you to the capital." A man greeted.
Cenehar jumped at the sudden greeting, he looked over with surprise clear on his face. The young lordling glanced at his guards and noticed that all five of them had already been looking at the newcomer, and Cenehars ears reddened. An Allisec Lord was expected to lead soldiers on the field, not just be a leader of the people. Cenehar felt a little ashamed of himself for letting a stranger sneak up on him. A moment of silence passed between them before Cenehar noticed that Sol had his helmet turned slightly towards him, and Sol nodded.
"Ah. Um- Greetings to you as well, a pleasure to be welcomed." Cenehar replied to the man, with a voice not as loud as the newcomers. Once the bowing man rose his head, Cenehar bowed his own head in acknowledgement. The young noble noted the newcomers clothes, they were clean, well tailored and well dyed. Was this newcomer a nobleman like him? Or a wealthy merchant? Or just a man well dressed? Cenehar concluded that it was the capital, of course many people would be well dressed, not just nobles or officials. This was probably just a merchant or a well dressed man. He glanced to Sol again, who once again, gestured towards the newcomer with a nod. No help would come from his guard, this conversation was for Cenehar. He turned back to the newcomer "I am uh, Cenehar, and your name is? And by any chance do you know of a decent healer in the Capital? Or a bath house? Maybe a tailo..." Cenehar rambled, then trailed off, getting quieter and quieter, slowly realizing his informal speech, he gulped and turned to Sol slowly. Fearing a scolding, as his instructors did whenever he forgot the manners of a nobleman.
His Guard-Captain blinked. "You did well. Your father may have tasked me with being your guard but I am no instructor of manners." Sol explained quietly, plainly.
Cenehar gave Sol a small smile, and came to the realization that neither his father or his instructors were here looming over him. He was in the company of his guards, who couldn't care less if he spoke with vulgarity, or with the posh manniersms of the nobility. Then he turned back to the newcomer, "Er, yes. As you can tell we're in need of some mending, both our bodies," Cenehar spoke with a renewed confidence, and holding up his arm momentarily to more easily show his injury, a newly applied bandage over his forearm, "And our equipment. So if you have any advice as to where to go in the city, it would be greatly appreciated, Mr...?"

 

[4scorelightnings]

Nava

​

Even on the western side of the Capitol, where at the edge of the wood you could hear the birds chirp louder than the people at dawn, things were feeling tense and bustling from the moment the golden sun shown herself over the green moors. Nava opened her eyes, large and brown and doe-like, to the wooden panels of a roof that needed repairing. A draft came from the morning dew and early wind mingling like the sounds of Nature and Man. Things had never been more busy than in the last few months. And it wasn't just because of the influx of nobles.

Her father's friend, who had been apprenticing her for some time, became more and more homesick as Nava expounded on the newer tales of her village, and the man, getting old and weary, finally decided to pass his position on to her so he could travel there more often. She wasn't shocked by this, as it had been a few years of training under his guidance, and she felt she could tell the world every fern and bush that grew on these lands and what ailments they could remedy by heart. But she was shocked to hear about his old wife, who he had rarely been able to see since moving, who felt so attached to the homeland that she could not get up and move off of it and into the Capitol, even with the promise of more opportunity. Instead, she chose to stay in Chahna, the village where Nava came from too, like a widow to a husband resolute (or perhaps, some would say blinded) on being successful.

It made Nava realize that although the Love could be short-lived for those who struggled most of their lives, it was nice to know that some journeys are cyclic, slow-moving like honey dripping from a hive, and that if the maiden can wait, and the young man is faithful, Love can find its way back to home, even after all these years.
It seemed that romance had more influence than it gave itself credit to do, even in these troubling times. The thought of this made Nava smile to herself that morning as she left the now emptier shop to gather the herbs for the day from the small wood nearby.

"Rosemary, hollyhock, sage, and yarrow," she whispered, the phrase coming out so many times through the morning it became a kind of song, different verses to be added depending on the morning, on what and who she encountered as she did the work she always done at the cusp of dawn.

• * • * •​

"And in the tall grass there lay a hare there, O' I see bleached quails soar, a shelled snail snores," she was mumbling now and her basket was full of the herbs she needed for the day: for those who had bad circulation, congestion, pain relief, to stop the bleeding, the list went on and on. Her black curls trailed behind her like small waves, down a brown trail that was her common linen dress, as she went back to the shop, hearing already the loud exclaims of someone already intoxicated, or perhaps just angry at the state of the land, on the edge of the Capitol ahead, the horses and traveled peoples visiting from lands farther than hers. She hardly noticed the raven that had been watching her, and then something quicker than anything human fast approaching. All she noticed was the just after midday sun gleaming down on her.

As soon as she had gotten inside and put her things down on the wood table, there was a knock, and she with no break in her stride, made a beeline to the door and swung it open to reveal someone she had never seen before, and a lot more important-looking than any commoner she had had to attend to. At his appearance, she curtseyed, though not taking her eyes off of his as she did so--for his were far too interesting to look away at first glance.

"err.. Sir," was all she could muster, not knowing how else to greet someone who looked so highly ranked.

(Small Mentions: The voices of Howard, Kyriss Shendoa, Mitchell Markstrom; Interactions: Obhad Nahreel)

 

[niqlo]

Kyrie Canelo, Spymaster
The Gates, Lumina, Iridia​

"...and his foot was never quite the same after that incident!" Kyrie chortled, a knowing smile on her face as she finished a shaggy-dog story of a joke she loved to tell at parties. Despite their apparent weariness after hours of travel, the caravan that she had embroiled in conversation—a group of merchants, businessmen, and their charges—had erupted into a chorus of laughter. The younger ones seemed reinvigorated by the story, their youthful faces lighting up as they started nudging each other, as if in realization that they've finally arrived at the capital, and that—wait, is an actual, honest-to-goddess Golden Knight really joking around with us—

The older members of the group had a more muted response however. Though they were genuinely delighted that a Knight was there to receive them, there was an undertone of... unease, Kyrie observed, in their actions and mannerisms. She noted that some of these older folk exhibited similar habits as her telling of the story went on—an avoidance of direct eye contact, tighter than usual grips on the reins of their horses, and quite noticeable fidgeting, as if unable to find a comfortable sitting position atop their wooden carriages. All-in-all, it seemed that despite their initial receptiveness towards Kyrie, they really wished to be in any situation apart from the one they're currently facing right now.

These commoners appeared to be more knowledgeable than I thought. How amusing! The Spymaster's smile widened ever so slightly, hands clasped behind her back as she regarded the caravan before her. Kyrie considered her auspicious station within the Golden Knights as an honor bestowed upon her after centuries and centuries of service towards the country. She owes it to not only the Kingdom, but also to the numerous people she's known throughout the years, be they commoner, noble, or another Golden Knight like herself, that helped her keep their beloved Iridia heads-and-shoulders above every other country in the world. As such, it's always a treat for her to see others become aware of that fact as she interacts with them. Maybe even too much of a treat, if she was being honest with herself.

As the conversation started to lull down into an uncomfortable—for the caravaneers, not her—silence, the head of the caravan, a portly man of diminutive height and graying hairs, noticed the very apparent unwillingness of his peers to do anything but look anywhere near the Spymaster, with the woman in question content with merely staring at the group themselves. "What a truly fascinating story! Color me even more enthralled when it was told by none other than one blessed by the goddess' blood Herself!" He managed to sound both unsure and over-enthusiastic as he spoke, letting go of his reins as he clasped his hands in front of his chest appeasingly. "Yes, well, let it be known that not all Golden Knights are hollowed out husks bereft of the ability to tell jokes, I suppose." Kyrie gave him an unimpressed look. The Spymaster was well aware of the Golden Knight's general reputation amongst the commonfolk, as unfeeling demigods closer to automata than humans, which isn't entirely inaccurate, so she couldn't exactly blame these commoners to have such a notion embedded into their mortal heads. Pointing out that fact to a Golden Knight directly on the other hand...

The caravan head flinched hard, though to his credit, he recovered almost immediately. "Indeed! W-Why, one can even say that the Golden Knights are also blessed with the preternatural gift of humouring others as well!" He started nodding to himself, seemingly unaware of his fellow rider right beside him shaking their head in exasperation. Kyrie barely suppressed the urge to laugh, opting to raise an imploring eyebrow instead. She was having too much fun. "In fact, I remember my cousin's wife, having met another Knight herself, saying that—"

"You're nothing but a disappointment to all Golden Knights!”

The disgruntled, nay, disturbed voice of a man screams out. To this, the Spymaster immediately snapped around to see the source of the noise. There, she sees four figures. One appeared to be a man in his early thirties, clad in the armour of an Iridian regular, on his hands and knees with a shattered bottle of what she assumes to be alcohol right beside his fallen form—most likely the origin of such profanities being said. He was before Lord Hyde of the Mage Corps, Lady Kyriss of House Shendoa, and the newest member of the Golden Knights, Mitchell Markstrom whom was bowed before the Lady.

For half a second, the facade of the eccentric, yet well-meaning Kyrie was replaced by the brutal Spymaster, her eyes promising nothing but death to this lowlife who had the nerve of uttering blasphemies upon the sanctity of the Golden Knights' name. Who was he, a mere mortal, to determine who falls short and who is deserving to be called a Golden Knight? Perhaps she needed to put this person in his place, permanently. And it would be too easy, too. Press charges of lèse-majesté upon this lowlife, with the judges 'conveniently' spurred to pass judgement immediately, and this person is beheaded by the end of the week at most.

One. Two. Inhale. Three. Four. Exhale. Control yourself, Canelo. Outbursts like this one aren't unheard of from the Iridian soldiery, or more specifically, the mortal veterans whom have miraculously managed to live through battles and war over the years. Their psyche was as fragile as their bodies, Kyrie was reminded, a fact she had realized early on in her career when soldiers under her control buckled and fled like the cowards they were in the Black War.

The Spymaster knew she could use this to her advantage. A peaceful resolution to this situation would potentially endear herself to Lady Kyriss of House Shendoa, leading to more opportunities down the line as she was one of the potential candidates to succeed the fallen King. Not only that, but by appearing to be in firm control of the situation she would give the right impression upon Markstrom, that a Golden Knight must be able to adapt to any situation life throws at them. Hitting two birds with one stone, if you will.

"...It would appear that I am called to attend to other matters." Kyrie turned back to the portly man, who seemed all but grateful to be relieved of his 'dealing with a Golden Knight' duties. Not waiting for a response, she put her fist atop her chest, with a resounding clink! as her gauntleted hands hit the chestplate of her ceremonial armor. "Glory to Iridia. Do take care." The utter lack of emotion in her words visibly unnerved the man, though she paid it no heed as she made a beeline to where the quadruple where at. "A-ah, yes, glory to Iridia indeed..."

"Now, what seems to be the problem here, hmm?" The Spymaster asked inquisitively, head tilted to one side and a questioning look on her face. Her gaze had a strange, almost eerie look to it however, as her eyes moved from Lady Kyriss, the new Golden Knight, and the soldier on the ground.

[Interacted; Kyriss Shendoa ( LostPrimarch ) , Mitchell Markstrom ( Edric Blight )]

 

[noxrequiem]

Morrigan Nevaux
The Palace, Iridia
​

Morrigan looked down at the city below her from where she stood on a palace balcony. It was busy, bustling and full of life. Seemed ironic, given the circumstances for the activity. She felt incredibly uneasy. While everyone else in sight seemed joyful and carefree, she felt anything but. The king was dead, and they knew neither how or why at this point. And if the other kingdoms wanted to make a move on Iridia, now was just the opportunity.

Or maybe she was thinking too hard about this. It wouldn’t be the first time, her mind was always wrapped up in the matters of war and death, only capable of seeing the worst-case scenario. Though in her experience, you could almost always expect the worst to happen. She shook herself out of it. She’d allow herself to worry about that all later. She had other matters on hand right now. Literally.

She had gripped the letter so tight while she had been thinking that it had crumpled. With a sigh, she smoothed it out again, examining the letter from her sister. “Meet me at the Gates? Dad said he’d meet with you at the palace, but I want to see you as soon as possible! ~Lydia”

The note had been delivered to her not too long ago. The courier saying her family’s caravan was less than an hour away at the time of the delivery. Morrigan felt a wave of disapproval at Lydia sending a courier all this way just for something trivial like this. But she couldn’t bring herself to be truly upset. Her little sister loved her, and it had been quite some time since they had last seen one another.

“Right…” she mutters under her breath, turning and briskly walking away from the balcony.

...
The Gates, Iridia
​

Morrigan walked down the streets of Iridia, keeping a quick but steady pace akin to a war march. She dressed now in a simple but tasteful and well-tailored deep maroon tunic, matching leggings, a set of black riding boots, and a heavy dark grey cloak over her shoulders. It wouldn’t be until later that she donned her armor, for the formal events to come. But as always, her gleaming silvery longsword was strapped in its scabbard at her hip, partially hidden by the cloak. Though she lacked her signature dark suit of armor, the way she carried herself was unmistakable. People looked at her, as they often did, but she ignored them. Always ignore them, is what she would tell herself. Besides, she wasn’t here to be looked at or to interact with anyone. She was here to see Lydia and that was it. She could see the gates coming into view before her when she heard a bellowing yell.

"You're nothing but a disappointment to all Golden Knights!”

She whipped her head in the direction of the voice, eyes immediately falling on the group of four. She recognized all four of them—Lady Kyriss of House Shendoa, Sir Hyde of the Golden Knights, the newest Golden Knight whose name she couldn’t recall, and the soldier. She recognized him as Howard Livingston, and he was on the ground, the obvious source of the yelling. Well, shit. She needed to step in and do something, for Howard’s sake. As she approached the group, walking with the grace and formality of any disciplined officer, she saw Kyrie Canelo, Spymaster of the Golden Knights approaching as well. Shit, indeed. She could feel her jaw clench, but her expression remained neutral as she stepped up to the small assembly.

"Now, what seems to be the problem here, hmm?" The Spymaster said with a tilt of her head, and it was here that Morrigan stepped in.

The army Captain bowed deeply, a hand to her chest as she addressed the Knights and lady. “My sincerest apologies, Lady Shendoa. Sir Knights.”
She stood up straight again, arms crossed behind her back and posture rigid as she continued, glancing down at Howard. “I’m afraid this soldier has had a rough night. I will reprimand him and see that such a thing does not happen again.”

With that, she reaches down, grabbing Howard by the arm and hoisting him up to his feet. Her grip is firm, but gentler than he would have expected. She helps to hold him steady.


Interactions: Kyriss Shendoa LostPrimarch ; Howard Livingston Megalodon20157 ; Mitchell Markstrom Edric Blight ; Kyrie Canelo niqlo

 

[BLK]

Gerard Ashcourt
Speaking to Cenehar Allisec and Sol Redthorn, Outside the Capitol Gates, Iridia​

A hawk flew above the gate. From above it could see the never ending lines of expectant Iridians waiting to enter the shining city. It's wings beat as it rose before it settled onto a smooth gust of wind carrying it inwards towards the gate. Looking down, the bird saw a number of armor-clad figures outside the gatehouse. The five seemed to be drawing ever closer to an unsavory resolution. The hawk turned away, however, letting out a shrill cry as it turned back from the gate.

"... It would be greatly appreciated, mister..." The young man said. His voice seemed to trail off. He had done so once before, leaving Gerard amused at his lack of self confidence. In the short few sentences Cenehar spoke he somehow seemed to grow more confident despite his earlier uneasiness. Perhaps it was the affirmation of the guard standing to his side, or the young lord was simply rattled from whatever had caused the tarnish to the party's wear. Despite this, Cenehar Allisec had surprised him. Gerard had never expected to run into the heir to the Allisec house outside of a public gate.

"Gerard Ashcourt, your highness." He said, sliding his hand off his chest. Gerard took a quick look between the soldiers and Cenehar one last time before speaking again. Measuring his words carefully Gerard continued, "I would be delighted to acquaint you with my tailor, although I suspect you would not find his work to be of the finest quality. As for the rest of your concerns, I must apologize as those would be best suited to the soldiers who await us at the gate. I am sure any officer would clear their schedule for the day to show you the city." His words flowed out, one after the next with hardly a break between. He felt like a merchant selling his wares in one of the city's many markets. Perhaps the Allisec would do their part and bite.

Despite the confidence with which he spoke, Gerard was burning. His palms had begun to clam up and the hair on his arms stood like soldiers waiting for orders. He did his best to conceal his nervousness by placing his hands behind his back but any observant onlooker would have had ample time to see his unease. The Allisecs are unusual. He thought to himself. Perhaps a reassurance or simply an idle thought, Gerard found himself inspired nonetheless. "While I presume you must have a place to stay, if such arrangements have not been made I would be delighted to help you find a place to room." He added. Harmless in nature, Gerard could not help but smile at his words. He was playing the part of the fawning noble marvelously. After all, the best actors take inspiration from themselves.

Interactions: Cenehar Allisec, Solana Allisec ( Skyrte )

 

[Megalodon20157]

Howard Livingston, Army soldier
The gates, Lumina, Iridina

Morrigan lifted me, and she was my support as I struggled to stand up. What just happened was my fault. Anger got the best of me, created a scene.
What I needed were an explanation and an apology. Adrenaline was coursing through me.
The need to run and defend me from everyone. No, I can’t do that. Mistakes were made by my actions, and I must take full responsibility. Shadowy figures appear around everyone. They were accumulating by the seconds as my vision could only see darkness, and no light could not penetrate through. I was surrounded, with nowhere to go and nowhere to hide. Breathing of mine becomes sporadic and no longer at a steady pace.

I pushed away and threw what was holding me by my arm in a panic. Unsheathe my sword, draw into position. “Why must you follow me everywhere you go? What purpose do you bring here? Leave me alone! Let me have peace, please! If I must fight to survive then so be it!” I said like it was my last. Golden rays of light shine come from behind. Instantly turned around to see the enemy. Rise the sword high above, ready to attack. I froze like a statue in shock.

My mother was there. I have never seen her so beautiful and holy. Wearing a white dress, silky smooth hair touched her shoulders and her pretty face smiling. “Mother,” I said so softly. She comes closer, reaching her hand for me. I move forward wanting her touch. She cups my right cheek. Let go of my sword and sheath it back to my hip. “Close your eyes, my sweet baby.” Mother said to me. Closed my eyes and waited. A small kiss touched my forehead.

Nothing happened after that. I open my eyes. Started to look around me, and the whole world was back to me. I realized they were watching me, Morrigan, Lady Shendoa, and the golden knights. “I am sorry for my actions, leading to this moment. My harsh words disrespected a golden knight and claimed what a golden knight should be. Irresponsible for me drinking while on duty. I more likely upset Lady Shendoa and ruined her day. I’m sorry If I hurt anyone. What your decisions for me are up to you.” I said clearly. I turned around to face them and kneel to the ground. “I await your orders and face my consequences,” I said full-heartedly. Waiting in silence.

Mentions: Howard's mother
Interactions: noxrequiem (Morrigan Nevaux), niqlo (Kyrie Canelo), Edric Blight (Mitchell Markstrom), LostPrimarch (Kyriss Shendoa)

 

[LostPrimarch]

Kyriss shendoa

The noblewoman has just decided to start trying to wipe some of the dirt off of her feet and face from the long travels when the door to the guard shack opened causing her whirl around in surprise and let out a shocked “eep”. The guard would turn to face her and a long moment of silence would pass between the two, “um” she started to say before the door once again opened to reveal A young knight in ornate armor, she would recognize this man as the newest golden knight “markstrom i think ” she thought to herself, right behind him was her Favorite family member her uncle Hyde. She was about to step forward to embrace her uncle but the kneeling knight surprised her by kneeling and introducing himself. Her face had begun to flush red as she blushed and was about to speak again when the guard seemingly erupted in anger causing her to flinch a bit. Finally the last person to enter the small room did so, this one was a person who mustve been important because even Hyde straightened his spine just a little when she entered the room. “What seems to be the problem here” the woman said and kyriss finally found her voice and said “Im not sure but i assure you its okay…i think it may just be a misunde-“ Despite finding her words they must’ve come out too softly because another woman continued speaking this time about reprimands and the soldier even seemed to have found his right mind and was also mentioning some form of consequences. This time Kyriss intended to make sure she was herd. “ITS FINE!!!” She said practically yelling, before once again turning the color of a tomato as she realized she had raised her voice. “Sorry…i mean its fine, we all have a rough one from time to time…would it be okay if we just let this one slide? I d-dont want anyone to get in trouble.” She said seeming to trail off towards the end and obviously feeling quite awkward. Hyde would just chuckle and grin crossing the space between him and his niece in one graceful step before embracing her. “There you have it dudes, no harm no foul…long time no see Kyrie. Were actually on our way to the palace after this do you know if the other noble families have already arrived?” while Hyde spoke with the woman kyriss inclined her head towards The golden knight markstrom to both acknowledge his greetings and to try to put him at ease about the way the interactions had gone so far. Her gaze shifted between the golden knights and the guards with a but of nervousness but clearly she was starting to relax a bit more.

Interactions: Megalodon20157 noxrequiem niqlo Edric Blight

Obhad Nahreel
Nava’s Shop

Obhad hear the muttering behind the door shortly before his knock and smiled upon hearing the footfalls moving towards the door. He kept that smile even as the door opening hoping it would disarm the woman. “Good afternoon Miss Nava, I am Knight commander Obhad Nahreel. The kingdom has need of your services. If you will accompany me to the palace You will be fairly compensated for your work and i can personally ensure your safety with my own life as collateral.” He spoke very professionally with a gaze locked into her eyes as if he were trying to read her very soul. Yet Despite his professional demeanor, his reassuring words, and his smile he could not hide his nature. His eyes or rather his eye would bear the gaze of a man who had likely killed more people than the average person had met, it was the gaze of a inhuman predator, a very clear sign that this was a very dangerous man standing upon her porch, even if he wasn’t a danger to her personally.

The loud caw of a Raven would serve as a much needed distraction as the mans spine chilling gaze shifted to the bird. It would peck the tiles of the roof twice and swipe its beak to the left, then right, before squawking again and unfurling its left wing. Obhad seemed to understand because he would call out “Hostile?” The bird would lower its wing tilt its head back and let out a strange hiss like groan. Which caused obhad to breath a sigh of relief. “Fen…it seems our meeting with Kingstriker has been bumped up. Go home and lead him to the palace mausoleum.” The wolf which up to this point was just out of sight thanks to the doorframe let out a deep yip before taking off towards the barracks he had just left from. Turning his attention back to Nava he would say “Forgive me, i have a guest at home it would seem. No matter however this task takes precedence, again forgive me but i must demand a answer now.”

Interactions 4scorelightnings
Mentions SharkBark

~~~

Spoiler: Content Warning!!! (Gore & Horror)

The Redflower plains, 917 kilometers east of Lumina

Cheyanne breathed in a deep breath only for it to crack with a sob of grief. Just this morning she had been happily baking bread awaiting her husbands return from his early morning hunt. However the sounds of horses and shouts drew her attention outside and in that instant her entire world turned upside down. Outlaws and bandits were raiding her town, in a panic she would make her way to the schoolhouse in an effort to ensure her son was okay. A sharp pain in the back of her head would make everything go fuzzy and when she finally woke up she found herself bound in chains in a carriage drawn cage with dozens of other townswomen and children. The sobs came when she heard them mention how they had slaughtered most of the men. The only solace she could find was that her son was with her…but was that really a good thing given where she was. As she looked onwards her heart dropped upon seeing the bandits camp. It was huge…there had to be at least two hundred people there not counting those escorting them there. She swallowed a fearful gulp knowing the hell that was waiting for them when they stopped. As the caravan made its way through the edge of the camp the horrid bastards started whooping and hollering, a few even started pooling resources to buy the newest “merchandise”. She wracked her brain seeming to look for anything that could help them out of this situation. That was when she remembered something she had heard as a child, “golden knights can hear a heartbeat from a hundred yards” it was something her husband was always going on about, he loved those knights and was convinced that they would always come and save the town if they needed help. Bitter tears fell as Cheyanne began to scream for help, she knew it was probably hopeless, that none were close enough to hear but still she shouted. Even as the men laughed and mocked her she would shout for the golden knights, eventually the laughs turned to jeers and even an occasional insult. From there it turned to abuse, she continued to shout even as she was slapped hard enough to draw blood. Eventually one of the men escorting her would say “thats it im about to shut this b**ch up.” He would say as he drew his dagger and began to step forward, but then the strangest thing would happen something that would leave cheyanne shocked for the rest of her life.

Something streaked by, she didnt know what it was, it made no sound and her eyes could barely make out anything other than a blur. But the man with the dagger had stopped wiry an incredulous look on his face. Blood would spurt from his neck and his eyes would roll as he fell his head separating from the rest of him as he fell. Simultaneously almost every man in the camp would shout and begin to draw swords. One even believed that she had something to do with it and was making his way towards the cage, his blood would spray cheyanne in the face as he fell in half split from his left shoulder to his right hip. Everywhere she looked geysers of red filled the air and limbs would go sailing through the air. The other women in the cage began screaming in horror and trying to cover the eyes of the pale faced children far to shocked to react to the carnage around them. Overwhelmed by the chaos cheyanne simply burried her face in her hands and continued calling for the golden knights in between panicked breaths. The camp began to fill with shouts quickly cut short and only when the silence was absolute did she open her eyes. One man was left there, though man was a strong term, this bandit couldnt have been older than fourteen or fifteen. He had his sword raised but it was clear this boy was terrified, he trembled and wept as his head and eyes darted all around him in a primal animalistic way that could only be achieved when a man is at the pinnacle of terror. She saw the blur in her peripheral vision and knew immediately what was coming. With all her courage she swallowed the paralyzing fear and shouted “PLEASE STOP!!!” At first she felt her voice catch in her throat as she saw the boy go flying several yards but he seemed intact and his gasping cry and clenching his side let him know he was still alive. She was about to utter thanks to whatever this was when she saw another figure standing near the cage. It was a tall man with long flowing blonde hair. In his hands there was a sword that was glowing with the heat of friction generated by cleaving through steel flesh and bone at speeds the human eye cannot register. Yet his gaze was by far the most terrifying thing she had seen. He gazed at her with the indifference of a man about to step on a bug and for a brief moment she wondered if she was safer taking her chances with the bandits.

She watched as he took his other yand which held the snapped blade of the young mans sword. His groans of agony in the snow would remind her that he was in fact still alive in that pile. She watched on baited breath as the strange blond man swiped the broken blade casually at the lock to the cage cutting it neatly off and gently pushing the cage door open with a finger. “Thank you sir knight.” She said flinching as he replied to her. “I am neither a knight nor do i require thanks. You will pass on a message for me as repayment for your life which i have given you back.” she let yer head hang as she thought about her life , yes she was alive but everything she knew was gone and the man she loved would never come home to her again, as if knowing her thoughts the blonde man would gesture towards the front of the camp. “If you have thanks to give than give them to your husband, i found him bleeding in the forest and would have left them there if he hadn’t told me about you and his town. Then theres you, it was your incessent mewling that led me to the camp.” she listened as the man spoke but couldnt find in herself to be offended by his obvious rudness, after all he had just told her that he had found her husband and apparently. “He has some horses and supplies taken from the camp, you will have a very long ride to the capitol even with my friends blessing your travel.” he waited for her to climb down and seemed to have not the slightest of cares for any of the other people there. “What is this message you want me to deliver? And to the capital no less?” As she left he turned and guided her to the front of the camp where she quickly lept into her husbands loving embrace and the two wept tears of joy even as their son joined the embrace. Yet the blonde man seemed only to grow annoyed by this. “Time is a factor, i did not just kill 211 men for you to sit here and contemplate making another child…Go to the capital and tell them what you have seen here. When they ask you why i sent you to them tell them simply this. The Ancient of Power requests an audience, there is much to discuss.” the two looked at the blonde man with obvious trepidation before nodding to him. Without another word he would turn and walk in the opposite direction to them. “I will retract my payment for this request should you fail…and bear in mind you were paid with your life.” his words seemed to echo behind him even as he vanished right before their eyes. With a shudder Cheyanne simply hugged her family and prepared to venture to the capital. After all she wasnt about to piss off the thing she just watched butcher so many. Initially she thought it was a man that had saved them but all things considered she wasnt so sure anymore.

 

[Edric Blight]

Mitchell Markstrom - The Rookie Golden Knight

The young kneeling golden knight was soon startled by the sudden shouting of a clearly disgruntled man, a drunk soldier. His heart pounded out of his chest as the soldier called him nothing but a disgrace to all knights. Who was this soldier, and why was he yelling a Mitchell? And why did this soldier feel that he had the right to say who was a true golden knight, and who wasn't. Besides, Mitchell was a golden knight, much higher above in status than the lowly soldier. While the young knight was certainly off put by the soldier's yelling, he reminded himself of his elevated status as a golden knight. He deserved to be chosen, and he knew he had a purpose.

But it appeared that as soon as the Spymaster stepped in, the soldier seemed to have realized what he had done wrong. Mitchell looked up to the now apologetic soldier from the ground where he was still kneeling in respect to the noble lady. His eyes were as wide as saucers as he looked at the soldier, clearly very distraught and regretting his previous words. Mitchell looked back to the Lady. She seemed much more relaxed. The young knight wondered if he should stop kneeling. Was this an uncommon behavior among knights? Hyde had not bowed in the presence of Lady Shendoa, was Mitchell making a fool out of himself by bowing in the presence of this noble woman? Mitchell's heart rate slowed as the soldier kneeled down, surrendering, awaiting whatever punishment awaited him for speaking out of tongue. Although the Lady's movements seemed to indicate calmness, Mitchell the young knight still couldn't help but be a bit nervous. Was he making a good impression, or rather was he making a complete fool of himself in front of the lady, the soldier, the spy master, and the other golden knights? Mitchell held his tongue, gulped, and closed his eyes as he bowed his head in respect to the lady standing in front of him. He figured that he wouldn't dare stand up unless instructed to by the lady. He was, after all, a golden knight- meant to serve the nobles. Although his emotions had still not yet been dulled, he figured he would make a good impression on the nobles and the other golden knights by showing them how loyal and respectful to the nobles Mitchell could be.

Interactions/Mentions: Megalodon20157 , LostPrimarch

 

[Skyrte]

Sol Redthorn /// Cenehar Allisec
Iridian Capital Gates
With Gerard Ashcourt ( BLK )​

Ashcourt. Solana stared at the young Ashcourt intensely, flashing with recognition at the symbol mounted on his chest, not intentionally of course, but she hadn't seen an Ashcourt in over ten years. Her hands previously resting by her thighs, closed and in one fist, she clutched a leather strap. Questions she hadn't considered raced through her mind, and she wanted to speak up immediately, to ask them. Were the Ashcourts okay? The reports from the XIIIth Regiment said they were, but they were only stationed in one part of their territory, and were they and their allies truly well and prospering? What of the people under their protection? How were their militia units? She had fought alongside many during her personal crusade in their lands, and she wondered about the fates of the people she had befriended.

Cenehar however, had no such revelations. He was relaxed, and had a friendly smile on his face. "Please, Mister Ashcourt, just call me Cenehar. 'Your highness' is far too formal for me. And I'm sure your tailor would be plenty skilled enough, after all, he is a tailor. And I would very much rather have one known to be decent than one who might be bad. I wouldn't be able to tell the difference between a good or bad stitching anyways." Cenehar joked, "You could stand closer? Your company would make this line all the more bearable." He suggested. He then turned to look at Sol, "Could the group rest with the Capital Guard?"
"Hm?" Sol asked aloud, broken out of his stare, he visibly relaxed, his hands no longer balled in fists, he took a moment of understand what was asked of him. "Yes. Of course. We can meet with them at Allisec Manor afterwards."
"...Is everything okay, Sol?" Cenehar asked, noticing that Sol had been staring at Gerard. It was very much unlike his guard-captain to be absent minded, and Cenehar wanted to say that, but he refrained from doing so. Cenehar just barely furrowed his brow, he'd only known Sol a few days, he didn't want to presume. "Do you recognize Mister Ashcourt?" He asked in a small voice, afraid. If Sol recognized Gerard, and knew him to be an enemy, Cenehar wouldn't have known what to do. The man seemed plenty polite and friendly, even offering to help them find a place to stay.

"I..." Solana trailed off, she didn't recognize Gerard personally, and she now found herself wondering if she had ever met him before, when he was younger. But to say that she recognized their House crest would be an understatement. She had fought alongside Ashcourt banners for years, rested in their camps, had meals with their militiamen, she helped protect their people. She would recognize their name, and their symbols, for centuries to come, if not for the rest of her life. She shifted in her armor, looking at Gerard again, noticing that he was just as uncomfortable as she was. "I recognize his family, I know them to be good people. Protectors. Eager for recognition, like every young noble family is." She wanted to say more. How she knew of Ashcourt soldiers who would put themselves between a massive swamp monster, and her, a Golden Knight. How she knew of a unit of cavalry who would ride tirelessly to villages and towns who had cried for help. How the Ashcourts themselves were welcoming, providing her with everything she needed, from whetstones to sharpen her spear to information about the land. They had certainly made a good impression, if that was their goal. But she didn't say more. If she did, there would be questions, innocent at first. Where she was when she met that band of cavalry, how did she come to be in the Eastern territories in the first place, and then Cenehar would piece together the puzzle. This quest to the capital was supposed to be all him, with guards that any in the Allisec Clan would take with them. This was supposed to be his father trusting his son. If Cenehar knew that his father had tasked a Golden Knight to take care for him, Solana wondered if he would be angry. Frustrated that his father believed that Cenehar couldn't even take care of himself, to such a degree that he needed a Knight to babysit him. So she kept her mouth shut. She wasn't certain how Cenehar would react to his father secretly assigning a Knight to protect him, but she was certain that she was annoyed.

Cenehar gave Sol a small smile, and turned back to Gerard, "Well, if Sol considers you to be friendly, then so do I. And... yes we do have a place to stay, but just between us, I think Allisec Manor sounds a bit dreary, and the Nerkull Monks there seem a bit unnerving... so we might actually take you up on your offer? If it's not too much trouble, I don't want to impose."

 

[BLK]

Gerard Ashcourt
Speaking to Cenehar Allisec and Sol Redthorn, Outside the Capitol Gates, Iridia​

The nobleman and the soldier exchanged words in hushed tones. Listening intently, Gerard wagered a guess that their conversation was centered on him. He couldn't help but feel pleased that the two were talking about him. The Allisecs alone could change his house's fortunes more than any amount of brown nosing in the many vaulted halls of the city. The differences in rank between the Aschourts and Allisecs was like comparing a hawk with a lion. Befriending any member of the Allisec house was essentially a ticket to the top for Gerard. He couldn't afford to botch this opportunity.

"You could stand closer? Your company would make this line all the more bearable." Cenehar invited. "Well, if Sol considers you to be friendly, then so do I. And... yes we do have a place to stay, but just between us, I think Allisec Manor sounds a bit dreary, and the Nerkull Monks there seem a bit unnerving... so we might actually take you up on your offer? If it's not too much trouble, I don't want to impose." The young man and the guard made an amusing pair to observe. Confirming his initial suspicion, Gerard felt his confidence swell when Cenehar beckoned him closer.
"Naturally, Lord Cenehar." He agreed. "I will do away with the highness, but I must insist you allow me to address you with some title at least for the time being."

What could the guard know? Gerard wondered. He did not recognize his face, but perhaps he served with his family. The Allisecs had a presence in his family's fiefdom, often serving as welcome reinforcements or playing the role of the heroes the solve problems that the Ashcourts did not have the resources to handle. The family-- Or perhaps the Knights themselves-- had sent their Golden Knights to protect the far reaches of the realm as well. Although their appearances were rare the Ashcourts knew they needed to make themselves scarce for their arrival. Gerard recalled a time he came unusually close to meeting one himself. Among all the many lords and ladies of the kingdom the Golden Knights stood apart. To Gerard they were symbols of everything wrong in Iridia: Exploiting powers which they didn't understand and stealing the gifts of the gods with little consequence. Sticking to their tall towers and meddling with the affairs of the common people with little care for right or wrong. Although he was not much different, perhaps. What right did he have to speak for the peasants and paupers of his realm?

Speaking up as he approached the group, Gerard continued, "My family has not forgotten your assistance. The people of Yellowseed continue to prosper under your protection. Housing you and your entourage would only begin to express our thanks." He reiterated. The mention of Yellowseed was intentional. The town was a point of embarrassment for the Aschourts. Banditry had always been an issue in the east. Occasionally entire companies of deserters and wrongdoers would ravage the countryside before inevitably being put down by a group of soldiers. But this took time, and with the East steadily unwinding, the eldest Aschourts decided that several hundred bandits were simply a cost worth bearing. But their calculation proved costly when the Second Rose Knight was dispatched to the region. The embarrassment and ridicule of the Wolf Toothed Pack paled in comparison with the loss of face the Ashcourts suffered from the occupation of Yellowseed. Losing the title of a village meant losing prestige, and in the Ashcourt halls prestige was the only currency. But in their loss Gerard stood to gain. Nearly two decades later he could at least use it's name to flatter the Allisec, or perhaps one of their knights if he stuck to Cenehar long enough.

"Now I suppose we must endure the line." Gerard joked, attempting to keep his own mood light.

Mentions: Sol Redthorn, Cenehar Allisec ( Skyrte )

 

[Skyrte]

Sol Redthorn /// Cenehar Allisec
Iridian Capital Gates
With Gerard Ashcourt ( BLK )
​

"Naturally, Lord Cenehar." Gerard spoke, "I will do away with the highness, but I must insist you allow me to address you with some title at least for the time being."
Cenehar smiled, remembering his father telling him that he'd have to get used to titles, recounting the times he himself had issues with titles. It was strange to hear that story of a young Aleksey trying to get everyone around him to address him informally, from cousins to house guard troops, much to his dismay none of his efforts worked. And today, his father held many titles. Lord Allisec, the Kind, the Silver Bowman, the Healer-Lord, the Ghost Commander, among others. Cenehar wondered if he ever would reach the same heights as his ancestors and his father, or even get close to earning a title for himself. Sure, he was good at studies, and at magic, but his father and the Allisecs of old felt like titans, statues that towered over him in his mind, each achievement of theirs making their pedestal taller and taller. Some of the Allisecs of the past were atop veritable mountains in his mind. The FIrst Lord, Rhydes, who united the clans under the Allisec banner and name, against The Raiding King, and won. Rhydes who lead the exodus to the Western Crags, and who negotiated the first trade agreements and non aggression pacts with the other six families. Rhydes, who sacrificed himself to save innocents from a Goddesses wrath. King Filat, the only Allisec King, who some argue ushered in a golden age. King Filat, whose aid organizations still stand today, helping the destitute, hundreds of years later. Compared to these giants, what was Cenehar? What would he become? Maybe his future titles would be Cenehar the Bookworm, the Caster-of-Parlor-Tricks.
"I suppose I'll have to live with that, Mister Gerard." Cenehar replied with a slightly strained smile.
As Gerard approached, he continued to speak, "My family has not forgotten your assistance. The people of Yellowseed continue to prosper under your protection. Housing you and your entourage would only begin to express our thanks. Now I suppose we must endure the line." He joked.

Cenehar blinked. Sol let out a soft sigh of relief, almost imperceptible.
After a short pause, Cenehar blurted out, "Yellowseed?" in confusion. "Ah, no, I didn't mean to offend. Forgive me I- I-... I'm very new to the whole... being a Lord, being an heir, having to remember all these names and places... just- being a nobleman in general I suppose." Cenehar said, hints of dejection creeping through. He blinked away his discomfort and attempted to chance the subject after clearing his throat, "Speaking of nobility, Sol revealed to me that you are one yourself. I uh, must admit I don't know what to call you. Lord Gerard? Is that proper?"

Solana let out a small sigh of relief, just now realizing she had been holding her breath. Yellowseed was doing well, straight from the mouth of an Ashcourt. She wondered if she could get more of her questions answered, in a subtle way. Though, subtly was never her strong suit, and if she prodded, that was risking her disguise being exposed. Quite. Annoyingly. She determined. She set aside that train of thought, deciding that she would debate with herself if she wanted to even try later. For now, she wondered if anyone from Yellowseed even remembered her, of course, they remembered the Daydreaming Knight, the Second Rose. But did they remember her? Her carefully practiced smile, her little illusion-magic plays she would put on for children and their parents, the bread she helped the local bakers bake. She found herself feeling the tugs of a smile at the corner of her mouth, so she tugged with it, and she let a small smile grow on her face underneath her helmet. And she also found herself staring towards Gerard. The only thing he could possibly see of her face was her eyes through the helmet visor, but her eyes were no doubt gentler than before. She glanced away, down at the ground, then turned to look towards the gatehouse. There was a commotion, some shouting. She wasn't paying attention to any of it. She looked higher, at the two Golden Knights stationed above the gate, on the walls. If they were still up there, it was fine. She blinked. They definitely knew she was Solana, and she wasn't particularly looking forward to the questions as to why she was in disguise. Not that their questions would be teasing, or malicious, it was most likely a genuine curiosity, but the situation was just complicated. She blinked again. She swore she saw one of them looking at her with a raised eyebrow. She rolled her eyes at the Knight above the gatehouse in response, letting them know it wasn't her idea.