Fantasy The Chronicles of Solis

[SecretRock]

The Chronicles of Solis

The continent of Solis used to be one, united country under the banner of a single king. Things weren't always perfect, nothing usually is, but for the most part people were happy and well cared for. Things fell apart when the Gods started a war. The five gods who had created Solis no longer agreed on how they should work together. As they fought, the land they had cultivated fell apart due to the negative energy flowing from them, splitting into five different countries within it's borders and beginning to attack itself.

Centuries later, the Gods have reconciled their differences, turning their attention to the mortal world once again. They were horrified to see what their neglect had caused, chaos reigned the world and people suffered. Unable to intervene directly, each god chose a champion that represented their values and imbued them with powers. Now trusting these people to get the world back on track, the Gods can only wait, but they don't realise that in their absence a darkness has been growing...

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  -Stick to RPN rules please.
  -Please try to post regularly and tell the rest of us if you're going to be away.
  -Don't godmod or injure a character without the other player's permission.
  
• 
  Champions:
  Empthys - Sebastion Ariston by Grouse
  Kymir - Awahina by TyVibes
  Acorr - Finley Orowen by Berries
  Soros - Theris Fey by SecretRock
  Anemis - Amber Moorhardt by Disco
  
  Non-Champions:
  Merce Avrong by Aine
  
• 
  Aplia
  Situated on the planes in the middle of the continent, Aplia consists mostly of farmers. It's the largest country formed from the remnants of Solis and is run by a governing body in the capital city. Unfortunately, the Government has very little reach past the walls of the capital, the farms outside being set upon by bandits and extorted just to stay alive. Some villages are attempting to form a resistance against the hoards of bandits, though not many have succeeded yet.
  
  Esthines
  A very solitary kingdom, the leaders of Esthines live in constant paranoia. Their borders are lined with watchtowers and their military is one of the biggest in the five kingdoms. They live mostly in isolation, only trading for the necessities with other countries and trying to provide for everything themselves. Not many citizens are allowed to leave, and even fewer are allowed to return. Esthines is ruled by its leading military folk, mainly generals.
  
  Skon Thar
  Everywhere north of the Great Sea Pass is part of Skon Thar, a warrior kingdom. There is no permanent control on Skon Thar, control being passed around from chief of one tribe to the chief that killed them. Despite being at war most of the time, the tribes also know how to work together to survive in their harsh environment. Trading between themselves and other countries is their greatest strength.
  
  Draesia
  On first sight, Draesia seems to have escaped the chaos that spread to everywhere else. The Holy Emperor that rules them is benevolent and shares funds and goods with his people. The cities seem prosperous and the people happy, but below the surface things are very different. Anyone who expressed unhappiness or any sign of dissent swiftly disappears, never to be seen again. Most paths through the mountains have been found and are guard by the Holy Emperor's men.
  
  Otrodor
  Otrodor is less of a kingdom and more of a piece of land that no one except the natives can survive in. Arid desert covers most of the land past the mountains, broken up by the occasional river or oasis where towns are based. While not very united, the one thing most 'Dorians have in common is sailing skills. Given the deadly nature of the sand wastes around them, sailing over rivers or the surrounding ocean is usually the safest way to travel if you know how to deal with pirates. The city that gives the 'kingdom' its name is ruled by a council of ten.
  
  No Man's Land
  South of the Draesian Mountains, and between the Aplian Planes and the Esthian border are stretches of land that belong to no kingdom. People still live in them, making what living they can without the protection or benefits of a kingdom to help them. The culture, type of people living here, and location of villages and towns can vary wildly.
  
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Northern Aplia could be cold in winter, chill spreading from Skon Thar and freezing anything that dare to be outside when the sun wasn't. The last frost had happened the night before and had thawed by the time the sun rose. Despite this, there was still a sharp chill in the air and the smell of winter on the wind. The light was pale as it lit the world, casting the small farmhouse in the distance in an almost ethereal glow.

It had been several days since the Champions received their visions from the gods, all of them having awoken from their slumber or daze with a path given to them. Those of them who knew Aplia well could tell that they weren't being showed the fastest route to their destination, but they knew it was the one they had to follow. Now they'd reached the Sacred Spire, just as instructed. The pale sun cast a shadow across the tall building, long tendrils of darkness reaching from the base of the spire and into the west.

The Spire itself was underwhelming. Time had done a good job on it, with the eastern pillar crumbling and most of the smaller buildings overrun by all kinds of plants. Most of the smaller pathways had fallen down or been washed away, but the main ones still stood strong, luckily for any who wished to visit. Putting aside the cracks and the plants and the general disrepair, the Spire did look pretty sacred. The stone was still a bright white after all these years, and it was as magnificent as anything in any other kingdoms, maybe more so. With their destination not only in sight, but within a few minutes walk, the Champion's journeys were about to really begin.
Grouse Berries Disco TyVibes​

 

[Disco]

Amber Moorhardt​

Amber tightened her recently 'obtained' wool scarf around her neck and face. The winter got to be bloody freezing and she still had doubts about traveling to the Sacred Spire. The monks had said to find herself spiritually. And she received a dream, no, a message, from what was supposedly the Goddess Anemis herself. If such was the right way to go, well, she can't really ignore that sort of vision. Even if it was just a crazed dream it felt worthwhile to come here. At the worst case she could just leave. Amber put a breath of hot air into her gloves and rubbed her hands as she walked forward toward the large spire; she kept the scarf close, its warmth reminding her of the southern monk temples. The dream just felt too real. It hit too many elements of pride for her. To see her brothers again? To know what her home was once more? These were the thoughts that clouded her mind and prevented the girl from achieving the spiritual balance the monks seek.

She pressed on until she reached near the base of the tower. She had heard of the tower and its presence. But seeing something like this in person was another story entirely. The shining white glory of the tower dwarfed whatever architecture she remembered from home. The slums certainly didn't have anything so marvelous and the monks, while well kept, didn't have anything as showy. Amber recalled the other champions in her dream. The Goddess said they'd supposedly show up as well. If she remembered correctly: there was to be a tall burly woman with scales armor, a man without an arm, a fellow with long hair and freckles, and the last appeared a sharper more dangerous sort. Amber figured that these other 'champions' would be quite easy to see coming along. After all, with her in the group, it might end up a freak show of misfits. Amber was good at and preferred being low-key, and thus the open environment of the spire made her slightly uncomfortable. She'd find a spot that could be relatively hidden near the spire to get herself in a more relaxed place. There was some plants and overgrow at the base of the spire. Amber sat down and raised her legs up so that she may hug them with her arms, plopping herself to back on the spire-base and chin resting on knees. Here she'd wait in silence to see if anyone else shows up clueless like she was. If one isn't too observant, they might actually miss the small woman sitting at the side among the wild growth.

 

[Grouse]

Sebastian Ariston
Champion of Epthys (app)​

Saved by a goddess -- the irony was not lost on him.

Religion was not … encouraged in Esthines. They believed in the gods as they believed the sun rose every morning, but ‘believe’ held another meaning -- one which every Esthinean child was taught not to feel towards any so-called supreme being of Solis. After all, they were abandoned by them, left to fend for themselves. What use was there in paying tribute to forsakers? Sebastian’s attitude towards them was no different.

In his mind, he was only repaying a debt.

After all, he had just finished repaying his other saviours -- a travelling group of artisans who tended to his wounds, and nursed him back to life. At no price, irritatingly. He loathed to be indebted to someone else -- much less those foolish enough to refuse any type of payment -- but in time an opportunity arrived in the form of a few dumb bandits armed with nothing but dull knives and even duller minds. He had paid his debt in full then.

Epthys’ call came shortly after -- the perfect excuse to take his leave among people he no longer owed anything. Even still, the artisans were kind enough to leave him some parting gifts: A few silvers, some ale, what bread they could spare, and a token of their guild, should fate ever draw them to each other again. As they said their farewells, some of the men and women imparted some wisdom on Aplia and Sacred Spire -- what to expect, where to go, who to avoid.

As grateful as he was for any relevant information, Sebastian’s own bewilderment overcame any preparations he may have made in advance. The strange, excessively grandiose architecture; the incessant buzzing of foreign tongues around him; the occasional lingering looks from locals who could feel his discomfort -- they were all too much to take in at once. These past few weeks were his first journey anywhere outside of his homeland. Now, he wished he could just go home.

The swarm of people seemed to thin the further he went. Sebastian tried to ignore the sinking feeling in his gut. As much as he hated the noise, he appreciated the safety of a crowd.

The man pulled up the hood of his fur-trimmed cloak, shivering as the winds of winter lashed at his face. Even his horse -- a black, Skon Thar-bred war stallion he’d bought with all his remaining coin -- felt compelled to stop, to turn back, but a few strikes to the side persuaded it to keep going. The rider kept one hand on the hilt of his sword, and the other on the horse’s reins. He tried to keep an eye out for the other champions -- they should be easier to spot now -- but he had no idea what to actually look for.

More importantly, there was no one here. Sebastian drew his sword, sapphire eyes checking the perimeter, mind willing his breath to stay even. This was the perfect set-up for an ambush.

 

[SecretRock]

Theris Fey
Champion of Soros
The trekking had been the easy despite the rough terrain, it was the cold that bothered Theris. Even with a coat, it seemed to infect him. His nose and cheeks were burning, his fingers were numb and felt like they were stuck around the strap of his bag. The cold was something he'd despised since leaving Otrodor, with it's relentless pursuit of everything in winter. At least the cold in the desert only lasted until the sun came up again.

Theris wasn't sure how long he'd have to wait for the others that he was told about, but the last village he'd stopped at had allowed him to line his pockets quite a bit. They were a pretty superstitious bunch. Theris might actually consider himself among them if the message didn't turn out to be a fever dream or something. Still, they'd asked for enough fortunes to let him buy a couple of days worth of food, mostly salted meat and the like. And he still had his potion supplies, so those could be useful.

He was a little nervous about crossing the bridge to the Spire. The rest of the bridges didn't look like they held up well, he didn't want to be on one when it fell. It did seem like his only option, though, so he began to cross. Not too far away he saw what looked like a guy on a horse. He couldn't see much detail from where he was, but he had a feeling. He raised one arm to wave, hoping to catch the guy's attention as he moved closer to the centre of the Spire.

 

[Grouse]

Sebastian Ariston
Champion of Epthys (app)​

In a way, the winter was a boon, the thin layer of remaining snow enough to dampen the sound of his horse's hoofbeats. A quiet arrival would give him time to observe, to size up any newcomers -- be they fellow champion, or enemy. Alas, the breastplate and the pauldrons hidden beneath his cloak betrayed him, clanging as he moved forward, trembling from the harsh winter chill.

Stealth was never Sebastian's expertise, but this was just embarrassing. It felt like his very presence was tempting fate. His dark cloak stood out against the towering ivory spires overhead. Sure enough, it was not long before he made out a vague silhouette of someone to his far right. The stranger stood on one of the main bridges leading to the base of the tower, appearing to beckoning him over. Commanding his stallion to halt, Sebastian paused for a moment, studying his surroundings, looking for escape routes should this turn out to be a trap.

When he was content, he rode over to meet the stranger, abandoning his interest in reaching or exploring the centre of the spire, even just for this moment. Sword still drawn to his side, he stopped a couple of feet near the stranger, close enough to be within earshot of each other, while maintaining a wary distance.

'State your business.'

 

[Berries]

Finley Orowen | Champion of Acorr

Three days ago, it had been, when Finley had received a strange dream. As of recently, he had not dreamed in the longest time - the only things that appeared in his sleep were nightmares; growling, bleeding nightmares that tore through his soul. It had been this way ever since he had remembered the fate of his family. However, the dream from three days ago had been different. In that dream, a man had appeared to him who had claimed to be the God Acorr. Usually, Finley's dreams faded, but this one had remained seared into his memory and had placed an intangible weight upon his shoulders. After waking up that day he had felt that a path had been set before him. He had not yet told anybody for he had received a strange power afterwards in which he could feel the presence of objects in the ground and he wanted to first ensure that he had proper control of himself before he extended this new knowledge to others.

Besides, his companion and friend Lyrie was herself a worshiper of the God Acorr and Fin wasn't sure what she would say if he revealed to her he seemed to have received the God's blessing. As such, he had kept the knowledge to himself, and had gone out secretly during the nights to practice his new gifts. Of course, the creature Barthelemy knew of his change. The amphibian creature had been the first to witness Fin's use of his powers and remained the only one. After coming to terms with the strange chain of events, Finley had set himself upon the path that had been set before him. To Lyrie, he had said that they had to move within the walls to stock up on supplies. He knew that his destination was the Spire and so engineered their trip around the fact that it was close to a good market for buying and refurbishing weaponry.

However, as the path led him along a strange indirect way to reach the Spire, Finley had been forced to make up more stories. Both himself and Lyrie new the land well and she would have been able to easily sense that their path was unnatural. Claiming to be having flashbacks and recognizing the area, Finley had led her along a trail until the Spire finally loomed on the horizon. His guilt about keeping secrets from her was great, but he desired to keep her safe, especially after all she had done to help him and teach him. It was because of her, primarily, that he had learned to use a sword and thus she was the reason he had been able to pursue his justice and his family in the first place. Turning to her now, Finley gestured to the Spire. "I feel there are people here I have to meet." He said vaguely to her, beginning to approach the Spire.

Already there two men who seemed to be conversing: one with an impressive black stead, the other appearing to be an ordinary man. However, Finley's quick eyes picked up another form - a female one - in the brush. She was the one Finley approached. "Hello," he greeted plainly. His eyes were unnaturally sharp for his usually clam demeanor. "What is your business here, today?" He questioned.

 

[SecretRock]

Theris Fey
Champion of Soros

The man he was waving to got closer and closer, and Theris began to recognise him. His sharp features and frown, they were familiar from the vision he was shown. The chances of it being a fever dream were getting slimmer and slimmer. He grinned at the man, continuing down the bridge even as the man and his horse stopped, his sword very visible at his side. Theris's was still hanging by his waist, his hand holding the strap of his bag. He got within a comfortable speaking distance just as another called to them.

Looking back, Theris knew for sure that this was real now. The other man he'd been shown by Soros, long haired, dark eyes, pierced ear, was approaching now too. He felt a little better knowing he wasn't crazy, but at the same time his heart sunk. No one will survive had been Soros's words. Recognising these two, it just meant the dream was real. Sure, the power he'd noticed over the past few days could have counted as proof, but he grew up with a witch. Magic wasn't foreign to him. Knowing people from dreams was. Despite his concern, the grin stayed put on his face as he paused in his step.

"I suspect I'm here for the same reason you are," Theris told the two. He gestured towards the Spire vaguely, and continued down the path. There were two left to arrive, both of the girls he saw. In fact, as he scanned the Spire it seemed like a girl was there already. He couldn't make out many details, but it was possible, if three of them had arrived at the same time already,

 

[Grouse]

Sebastian Ariston
Champion of Epthys (app)​

Was this man a champion like him?

Epthys' instructions were vague. She spared Sebastian neither faces nor names -- only an ambiguous warning, and then she was gone. He suspected it was a deliberate choice. No matter. He was trained to seek no dependence from god.

His eyes narrowed as he inspected the easy-going man, gaze automatically drawn to the weapon sheathed at his side. So the stranger was armed. His stature, of course, did not suggest a military background, but what did Sebastian know of other kingdoms' soldiers? Barely anything. He maintained caution, but decided to follow, reassuring himself that he had the advantage of a mount should he need to retreat.

As they turned to continue down the spire, his attention divided between the man beside him, and, a few yards ahead, the two figures that were not there the last time he looked. The brown-haired man appeared to have just arrived himself, but the blonde woman seemed to have just been hiding all this time. Inwardly, the soldier cursed himself. How could he have missed her? He needed to be more careful.

The one-armed man's ambiguous response only further twisted Sebastian's features into a glower. 'You will need to be more specific than that.' For all Sebastian knew, he was bluffing. 'Who sent you here?'

None of them appeared to know each other. Good. As a gesture of his own goodwill, Sebastian returned his sword to its scabbard. At any rate, should a fight break out between them, his best option was escape, not retaliation.

The man positioned himself so that his back was facing away from all three. If they were who he hoped they were, then everyone's display of reticence was a good sign. It assured him that they were at least somewhat competent.

'My name is Sebastian Ariston.' There was nothing to be lost in simple introductions, so he thought. Sebastian lowered his hood, dispelling the shadows that partially obscured his face. 'Lieutenant General of the Esthinean Imperial Army.' His voice dripped with pride that bordered on sheer arrogance, until his ears caught his own words, and his features softened a little. 'Former Lieutenant General.' His own correction left a bad taste in his mouth. Sebastian turned to the others, expecting them to return the same courtesy.

 

[Disco]

Amber Moorhardt​

By now Amber had tightened her clothes in attempt to get a bit more warmth. Luckily, her natural wear was already a bit warm with gloves and longer sleeves. Draesia was far enough north to get cold winters as well. Amber tugged her hat over her ears and her scarf to cover all the way up to her nose. This let the woman breathe hot air and insulate it within the scarf. It wasn't a way to keep warm forever, but it was something. Amber had found herself now getting comfortable and in ease as she sat here.

Two men had approached near the spire. One man on horse back, whom, seemed to be the tough looking man from her dream. It was hard to tell at a distance as it really could've been anyone. She considered his appearance just convenient until another man arrived. He was waving towards the others and they seemed to be talking. Two men showed up? Then there should be a third, shorter man, along with a burly woman. Amber watched them carefully from her little hiding place until the third and final arrival came.

"Hello," he greeted plainly. His eyes were unnaturally sharp for his usually clam demeanor. "What is your business here, today?" He questioned.

Amber took a good look over the man before responding. Her eyes darting all up and over his frame and image. Long brown hair and freckles? He was for sure one of the men from the dream Anemis sent. This made the likelihood of the other men being champions far greater.

Unfortunately, this one blew her cover. Amber stood now, patting herself off before finally looking up at the man. Her clothes still covered her greatly, to the point that it was difficult to see more than her eyes.

"I'm here to meet four others at the spire." She said. Amber's sharp gaze, small appearance, and quiet, soft, husky voice made her almost seem cat-like. One would have to listen carefully to hear everything she says properly.

"I can only assume you are here to do the same?" She questioned back at him. "You'd be the man with long hair and freckles I saw in a vision." Amber peaked past Finley to get another look at the others. "And I'd bet coin those are the others."

She returned her look to Finley. It was almost as if she could be quite intimidating despite her frame. "Unless I have the wrong person. Then you can just assume I'm a mad-woman." Amber smirked to herself. A bad joke only she'd find funny.


Berries

 

[SecretRock]

Theris Fey
Champion of Soros

As the man's face twisted further into an unpleased expression, Theris struggles to keep his flat. A war horse, a hate of vagueness. Theris didn't miss the look at his sword either. This guy was uptight, no doubt about it. Useful in some situations, sure, but mostly just fun to mess with. Theris stopped and turned to face him as he asked for clarification. He didn't miss how he sheathed his sword either.

"Soros sent me," he told the other guy. "He was kinda vague, but I think 'saving Solis' was the main reason he sent me here." He watched for a reaction.

The man, Sebastian he introduced himself, kept talking. Theris couldn't miss the smugness. It almost seemed purposeful. He also couldn't miss the disappointment in the correction. It seemed like a sore spot. Theris didn't understand it, he thought armies were kind of stupid with how they worked. The best were taken away from the fighting, the ones with the least training were sent right to the heart of the battle. Sebastian obviously disagreed.

"Theris Fey, no title." He told Seb. "I do have some sweet potions though, if you ever need something like that." He offered. He glanced back to the two by the plants. "Those two are champions as well, if you want to go repeat that to them." He pointed over to them.

 

[Grouse]

Sebastian Ariston
Champion of Epthys (app)​

Soros. One word was enough to explain everything -- the meaning behind his deity’s words, at least.

‘Epthys warned me about you.’ Sebastian sighed, a frosty mist forming as his breath escaped his lips. He attempted to render himself expressionless, suspecting that any sort of reaction was exactly what the other man hoped for, although Sebastian’s own irritated tone might have done a sufficient job.

This man -- Theris Fey -- appeared to have a way with words where Sebastian had none. Certainly a worthwhile skill to have on such a quest -- the soldier hardly expected anyone to be charmed by his perpetually sullen face -- but, pragmatism aside, that didn’t mean he had to enjoy the Theris’ company. Nevertheless, it was important to get to know those with whom he would be travelling: What they were capable of, and how best to utilise them.

‘You are an herbalist by trade?’ The words came out sounding more fit for an official interrogation than awkward small talk. As he spoke, Sebastian dismounted his horse, iron greaves hitting the surface beside Theris. Though he still made sure to keep an eye out, the other man's reveal had put him on relative ease.

Keeping one hand on the horse’s reins, he continued their journey into the centre of the spire, blue eyes locked onto the talking pair ahead. Neither appeared to be trained warriors -- going by their clothes, at least. Then, he suspected, the Champion of Kymir was likely not among them. Not yet, anyway.

‘Which one do you suppose is Acorr’s, and which is Anemis’?’

 

[SecretRock]

Theris Fey
Champion of Soros

Epthys had warned him? Well, that showed who he was the chosen of, but why would Epthys feel the need to warn Sebastian about Theris? Judging from Sebastian's voice, the warning hadn't been that he could be annoying. In fact, since Sebastian had only responded after he mentioned his god, maybe the warning had been about Soros. No point thinking about it now.

"Potion maker is more applicable." He told Sebastian. He didn't mind the tone he was using too much, sure he wasn't being friendly but he wasn't being mean either. Theris had dealt with a lot worse. "They can be remedies but I can make more...magical things, I guess." It felt a little dumb to describe them as that but Theris didn't know how else to describe it. Saying 'mystical' would have been worse. The awkwardness of his word choice felt a bit lessened by Sebastian no longer being on top of his horse.

He looked over to the other two as Sebastian posed his question. The girl was a lot more visible now, though no more of her had actually become visible. She was just wrapped up in clothes. Maybe she was as averse to the cold as he was? It felt nice to see a kindred spirit. He assumed she wasn't the one he'd seen in scale armour, Kymir's champion most probably. She looked too short for that. The man, though his face could be seen, didn't give much more away. Long hair didn't give much away.

"I have no idea," Theris admitted. It seemed like it could go either way. "Maybe if you smile at them they'll tell you." He joked. The guy really could do with lightening up a little bit.

 

[Grouse]

Sebastian Ariston
Champion of Epthys (app)​

Theris’ quip was met not with words, but with a low grunt. Sebastian cast the man a sideways glance to make his displeasure known. The soldier took pride in many things, but his sense of humour was not one of them.

So one of his companions made potions for a living. Good. It should cut down their expenses for the journey ahead. Potions were a necessity; battles would be inevitable in their quest. Otherwise, why would Epthys choose someone like him? He was no good at anything else.

The second part of Theris’ response caught his attention more than he’d like to admit. Interest shifting, Sebastian turned his gaze back to the man beside him. ‘Could you enchant weapons? Armour? You must show me.’ Of course, to the quintessential Esthinean soldier, their weapon and their armour were extensions of themselves. Sebastian was no different; the idea of leaving his equipment in someone else’s care was … agitating, to say the least.

Still, he needed to remind himself that trusting his companions was imperative if he wanted to give their mission a chance -- no matter how minute -- to succeed. It already looked like they had a path full of obstacles and tribulation ahead. None of them appeared to have any significant political sway, or boundless wealth, or an army to stand behind them.

Then again, he supposed, perhaps the last Champion would redeem all of their deficiencies.

The ghost of a smirk danced on Sebastian’s lips, though his eyes did not move. How amusing would it be if their missing companion was Draesia’s very own delusional Emperor?

‘Did Soros supply you with anything for this … assignment?’ What answer he sought, even he could not tell. The ambiguity was deliberate; he did not know if the others were bestowed an ability, simply given words of wisdom, or perhaps supplied with a magical artifact or two.

 

[Berries]

Finley Orowen | Champion of Acorr

Finley had his shoes removed, as he had soon come to realize that he was better able to sense objects within the earth when his skin was in direct contact with it. His feet were very cold in the low temperatures but he had only just taken them off to ensure he had an extra layer of protection in the event that anybody here ended up being hostile. He looked forward to getting this interaction over with so that he could warm his feet back up, but for the moment he scanned the ground for potential weapons in case any of the four who seemed to be gathered lashed out.

Splitting his attention between listening and scanning as the woman in front of him spoke, Finley was surprised to hear that he had been apart of her vision. Apparently his dream wasn't unique, though he hadn't been shown the images of any of the other people he was supposed to meet. Nodding at her words, Fin furrowed his eyebrows slightly at her last comment. "You are correct, and hardly seem like a madwoman." He responded easily, and at the mention of the two others he turned to face them.

Meanwhile, he had located massive rocks beneath the surface of the earth as was common for cities such as these. Assured that he had a method of defense if he so needed it, Finley glanced back at the woman. "I received no vision, but I wouldn't doubt that they are indeed the other two we seek." He commented, shuffling his feet a little bit in an effort to retain some warmth in them. Luckily, his feet were hardy from years of working in the field so he didn't immediately contract a case of frostbite.

Not being one to hesitate, Finley turned his attention back towards the duo across from them. Taking a couple strides to close the gap, the man offered a friendly albeit reserved grin. "Would you two happen to be here for a gathering of four at the Spire?" He questioned, his phrasing iffy but his point clear.

 

[SecretRock]

Theris Fey
Champion of Soros

Enchanting weapons felt a little beyond Theris' ability if he was being honest. After his vision, when Soros had mentioned sharing "his divine power", Theris had tried out a couple of things. It was mainly moving things, he'd found, but he'd done something that he felt could be classed as enchanting. He hadn't been able to do it before, though. It was something new.

"Armour might be a stretch." Theris admitted. And then, yet another question. This conversation felt very one sided. "Hey, enough about me, what can you do?" He asked, tearing his eyes off the other two to look at Sebastian. As the other man approached, he looked away again.

He was definitely the other guy from his vision, and the lack of shoes was very noticeable. He seemed at ease, which was probably good. Maybe Sebastian would say it was very bad. That guy did seem to be on edge a little. Though, if he came from Esthines, who could blame him.

"Gathering of five, I think," Theris corrected. They were basically right next to the Spire by now and Theris could see what he'd really class as the main attraction: a column of perfectly smooth, black rock stretching between the floor and the white ceiling above them. Small flowering plants were protruding around the base and at around head height for the average person was a small circular indent.

"I'm Theris, this is Sebastian." He jabbed a thumb in Sebastian's direction. "Can I ask who you and the girl are?"

 

[Disco]

Amber Moorhardt​

Amber couldn't help but notice the bare feet and missing shoes. Maybe she should be calling him mad for not wearing anything on parts as sensitive as feet in this weather. She still wanted to keep herself bundled. So long as the air was crisp and the windchill present, Amber refused to put down the scarf or adjust her clothes as they are. She was perfectly comfortable like this. Even then, it acted as a safety measure. Amber wasn't keen on others peering at her and observing her, like Finley had done. And she presumed the others would as well. She did so to Finley just now. It was a matter of trying to gauge how useful your companions would be. Amber was well aware of this, she just didn't want to be stared at.

She noticed the others approaching them now. Now that Amber could get a better look at them, they were without a doubt those from her vision. A shame, almost. Amber was more keen on hoping all of this was some sort of delusion. She had her new found power but she still wanted nothing to do with being some champion of the world. Amber thought a bread-thief like herself didn't deserve such a prestigious spot in the world. She walked idly behind Finley as he closed the distance with the other two. Even now she hid herself in some way; Amber keeping her posture facing away from the other men.

The others were conversing amoung themselves now. Amber did notice that they had one of the supposed champions missing. The huge, burly woman. And she figured the woman wouldn't be hiding anywhere as it'd be near impossible to miss someone like that.

"I'm Theris, this is Sebastian." He jabbed a thumb in Sebastian's direction. "Can I ask who you and the girl are?"

The thief didn't like the phrasing of that. The girl. It felt demeaning to ask that of someone else when she's right here as well. Amber coughed to herself, albeit loudly enough to make a presence. "Amber." She answered simply. Her voice still coarse and small regardless of what she did - It'd be hard to imagine her shouting. Amber forgo the surname as she figured none would care for a whore-name or a bastard-name.




SecretRock Berries Grouse

 

[Grouse]

Sebastian Ariston
Champion of Epthys (app)​

‘I am a soldier. What can a soldier do?’ To Sebastian, the answer was glaringly obvious. The state chose his calling -- his fate -- and the logical option was to answer it. His skills were rooted in combat, but no more. Anything else showed a lack of focus, or worse, defiance to the state’s decisions.

But perhaps that wasn’t exactly what Theris was asking for.

‘As for Epthys,’ his voice bore an uncharacteristic tinge of uncertainty, ‘I suspect she has meddled in my affairs beyond just our encounter.’ Sebastian looked up to the heavens, turning a gloved hand so his palm faced the sky. He could feel the winter loosening its grasp -- not just at this moment, but in the hours beyond.

Beyond that, there were the storms. Those, he was still ambivalent of. ‘She has supplied me abilities, but I lack the training for it.’ The admission came easier than expected. ‘I would experiment with it if the consequences were not detrimental to my own well-being.’ Neither did he know how to even trigger the storms -- to him, they simply just happened. But this was an admission that must come later.

The barefooted man approached them not long after. Sebastian raised an eyebrow at the lack of shoes, not bothering to hide his bewilderment. In this weather, he risked losing his feet to frostbite.

How wonderful. Their journey had just started, and already they were already missing two feet and an arm.

After Theris had introduced the both of them, and the woman called Amber returned the gesture, Sebastian could no longer contain his apprehensions.

‘This is an odd choice for a rendezvous.’ He crossed his arms, eyes darting around them. ‘Appears abandoned, with the nearest settlement at a considerable distance.’ As much as he understood the need to get away from prying eyes, this was far too much privacy than he’d like. ‘The area is vast and open, but the debris and clutter make for good hiding spots.’ He cast a meaningful glance at Amber; perhaps it only spoke to his own deficiencies that he hadn’t detected her, but her appearance suggested she might be perfect for reconnaissance.

‘In Esthines, this would be a haven for dangerous renegades.’

 

[SecretRock]

Theris Fey
Champion of Soros

It was almost scary when Sebastian seemed unsure of himself. Or it would have been if Theris cared a little more about him. Sure they were meant to be teammates, or comrades in arms, or something, but he'd known the guy for maybe a minute. The ambiguity was worse, especially after he'd seemed so put off by Theris talking like that earlier. Still, if he wasn't sure what it was that Ephtys had given him then maybe ambiguity was all he could do.

Theris looked to the girl. He hadn't realised that she'd approached as well. The fact that she was using her scarf to cover her face was both understandable and unnerving to him. She looked around the right height for the girl he was shown, one of them at least, but he couldn't be sure. The chances of someone else knowing about their little quest was slim, though. That wasn't the only reason though. With her scarf like that, he couldn't see her face. Words could be misleading, faces usually weren't. Not unless someone had practised with them, anyway. he smiled at the girl, repeating her name in his head. She was probably Anemis's champion, if the other man's bare feet were anything to go by. So, she was all about balance. Or she was meant to be. Theris wasn't exactly high on the belief scale of things so who really knew.

"It is called the Sacred Spire," Theris reminded Sebastian. It seemed an odd name if it had nothing to do with the gods, and an even worse meeting place. "Maybe we're supposed to get another message here?" He suggested. If he was totally honest with himself, though, this place looked as abandoned by the gods as every other place he'd seen. Maybe ever more so since there were no people here for upkeep either.

 

[idalie]

Hassan Rakim Al-Zahrani​

He had no God to guide him. Only that dark voice in the back of his head, which had recited chilling words on a holy night. In a voice that froze men to the bone, he had prayed to Kymir for forgiveness and set out. Across borders and through towns. Although he'd never felt so alone. It was as if no God looked over him on those travels, further and further venturing from his home. How the desert winds would howl in his absence, and the sands would shift - it was only enough to dream. But it was wrong, that path he walked, a weight on his heart breaking from something. Hassan was never meant to leave Otrodor.

Al-Zahrani had slaughtered bandits, the occasional bloodthirsty creature, and trudged through some of the more uninhabited landscapes of this land; realising why they were uninhabited with a quick escape. It was a sigh of relief that overcame him when the Spire appeared in the distance. Each step leading up toward it. Time had crumbled the structure, no matter how sacred it happened to be, causing the once formidable piece of architecture to appear a shadow of its former self. No doubt still intimidating, as grand as anything Hassan had seen. For the desert wasn't a place of grandeur, but where survival was key. The buildings of it displayed that, made hardy to withstand the sandstorms and tribal infighting.

Dressed in traditional garb unsuited for the cold weather, Hassan wrapped himself in his cloak tightly, shivering continually he was only glad he wasn't wearing sandals or his feet would've been frozen. Finding his way down the main path, all lined with greying white stone.

Atop the staircase which led to the spire he saw them. The collection of champions. Pulling his headscarf forward, the swordsman fought his way up the steps and stood upright. His deadpan expression, almost comical. "I haven't missed anything, have I?" Hassan remarked, cracking the slightest of smiles whilst glancing over the few strangers who tentatively made their introductions. Eventually, his cinnamon gaze landed on the familiar features of Theris. "Can't believe you of all people got picked by the divines."

On his observation of the odd crowd, he noted the lack of shoes from Finley and evidently expressed something between alarm and confusion. Biting his tongue from any comment. "I should apologise for the interruption. It's been a while. I've had a surprising week or so."

 

[Grouse]

Sebastian Ariston
Champion of Epthys (app)​

‘That word means nothing to me.’ Sebastian’s voice contained no hint of malice, his empty expression suggesting he was merely reciting facts. If the gods had sent them here simply for another message, then they had better make it quick. Even in the presence of three of his would-be companions -- all of which seemed perfectly capable of holding their own in a fight -- he felt unsafe in this area. As a temporary bout of silence passed the party, Sebastian thought he’d detected something that gave credence to his fears.

‘Quiet. Someone approaches.’ His hand reached for the hilt of his sword, ready to draw his weapon at the slightest threat.

The newcomer, however, did not appear hostile -- although he certainly appeared like he could be if he so wished. His garb hearkened back to the sandy dunes of Ostrodor -- not that Sebastian had ever been there himself, but the Esthinean border had more than enough share of desert merchants looking to sell them various wares.

This one was looked far from a common merchant, however. The excessive gold trimmings on his clothes spoke of immense wealth -- something that perhaps the owner was not afraid to flaunt. Almost automatically, Sebastian’s blue eyes gravitated towards the weapon at the man’s hip. It remained sheathed, but he did not doubt that the blade was of the same calibre as the rest of the man’s wardrobe.

As the man talked, Sebastian cast another sideways glance at Theris. The stranger’s words suggested familiarity towards each other. That he failed to mention this was a mite irksome, but for now he was willing to give the other man the benefit of the doubt. After all, Sebastian himself knew not who the other champions would be.

‘I didn’t realise you were acquainted with Kymir’s champion.’

 

[Disco]

Amber Moorhardt​

"‘The area is vast and open, but the debris and clutter make for good hiding spots.’ He cast a meaningful glance at Amber"

Amber couldn't help but smirk at that. She fully noticed his words and glance and would take it as compliment. She just made herself small and tucked away, but Amber was quite experienced with not being caught by others.The other words of Sebastion had Amber quite curious. He seemed a militant sort and one that was paranoid at that. The thought of such gave the woman a bad taste as she's had more than enough dealing with paranoid guardsman and soldiers in a lifetime.

Once Hassan approached, the stage was beginning to crowd. Who in the world was this man? He was acquainted with Theris and seemed dressed in possibly the worst possible attire for the bitter cold. Barring Finley's lack of shoes of course. The very exuberant choice of clothes made another problem, and not one only the stranger would have to deal with. He had flashy gold-trimmed clothing. It was a sign of wealth for sure, and with wealth comes those who wish to take it. He may be more trouble than its worth.

"I didn’t realise you were acquainted with Kymir’s champion.’"

Was Sebastion not aware of who the other champions were? Just who was shown what? Just who was told what? She figured everyone would be on similar pages but his words contradict such. Amber simply found herself more and more bothered by just about everything that was going on. They needed clarity, something the gods should've provided.

"He's not the champion of Kymir." Amber spoke sharply, and with a toxic spit to her voice. She didn't trust others walking in on this conversation. "There should be three men and two women. Such is what Lady Anemis had shown." Amber adjusted herself in defensive posture. Arms crossed and body kept away from the stranger. The only variable making her give Hassan a chance was the fact that he was friends with Theris.


Grouse idalie SecretRock

 

[SecretRock]

Theris Fey
Champion of Soros

Of course Sebastian didn't care for sacred things, why would Theris expect anything except fighting to mean anything to a guy from Esthines. He could tell that working with this guy was going to be hard, hopefully it was something he'd get used to. Hopefully, Seb would get used to the rest of them as well, drop that high and mighty act. It would probably take a while though. His skills did come in handy, Theris realised, as he warned them of someone approaching. Theris expected the Champion of Kymir, after all, the gods had seemed to get the rest of them here at the same time. Instead, he saw a very familiar face. He struggled not to gape at the sight. With a small glance at Amber, displeased with her tone, he spoke up himself.

"Amber's right," Theris confirmed, a small grin creeping over his face. "This is Hassan Rakhim al-Zahrani, a cold blooded mercenary who I half expected to be dead by now." Theris' voice was flat like he was presenting facts, but his smile and the humorous glint in his eye showed he was joking. "As for the divine influence, you know how charming I can be. You expect a god to be able to resist that?" He asked, and after a beat let the cocky charade drop a notch, chuckling to himself. The chuckle did have something to do with Hassan's reaction to Finley's feet too.

Theris finally paused in his jokes to actually look at Hassan. He was still dressed in clothes much better suited to Otrodor than Aplia, posh ones though. Mercenaries had always had a solid profession there. He as a person didn't seem to be doing as well. It could have been the cold, could have been tiredness, could have been something Theris didn't know about. He didn't want to push Hassan into telling him, especially with a bunch of strangers around them, so he let it lie. Then his mind circled back to Hassan not being chosen by Kymir. That was a puzzle.

 

[idalie]

Hassan Rakim Al-Zahrani​

"Cold blooded? You make me sound positively delightful." Hassan dryly replied, cocking his brow. "I should be dead, but me and death seem to be on good terms at the moment. Let's see how long that favour holds." Although the gold trim clothing seemed a little extravagant, most of it was alloy thread. The actual amount of gold reduced, and better for keeping the heat off his back. Pulling the dark crimson cloak further around his shoulders, he breathed outward. "I heard you were doing something stupid, I suppose I couldn't keep my curiosity at bay." Clapping Theris on the shoulder he gave a rare, crooked grin. "It's good to see you - in good health too. I was expecting you to have lost the other arm by now."

Nevertheless, he gave a slight bow toward Amber and Sebastian. "You flatter me, but I have not been chosen for this mission. As the young woman points out. I travelled fast enough I'm sure there's sand still in my boots."

He'd done well for himself, especially being the illegitimate son of the chief. However, he had some claim due to his mother's presence in the harem. Shamefully though, she'd never be one of the wives. It only made Hassan fight harder for his little piece of the future. He had the respect of the tribe and the freedom from it. He'd made his own way, and it was something to be proud of. Nevertheless, he looked odd outside of the Desert, as if plucked and dropped from the skies into the strange environment.

Al-Zahrani could almost feel the scrutiny at his apparel. "Perhaps your friends here would like me better if I dressed as a barmaid. It'd hold a longer lasting impression. My mother always said I had the eyelashes for it." He breathed into his palms, giving a playful glare to Fey. "Theris, my old and dear friend, you are about as charming as a ghoul wearing a whores lip paint."

 

[Grouse]

Sebastian Ariston
Champion of Epthys (app)​

A sellsword. Sebastian’s eyes narrowed into slits as he inspected the man once more. His right hand never left his sword, but at Theris’ latest remark, his grip only tightened further. For now, he would say no more -- but his distaste could not be concealed.

It did not escape him that had he not received Epthys’ grace, his own survival would have depended on mercenary work as well -- reduced to the same disgraceful fate as if he were merely another escaped dissident. Of course, had he not received Epthys’ grace, he would have long been reduced to a corpse himself.

Sebastian turned his head towards Theris, scowl settling on his face. It was a foolish move to tell one’s friends about the details of a supposedly paramount quest none of them barely even knew anything about. But then, as Theris spoke, his words suggested Hassan’s arrival came as a surprise to him as well. The mercenary’s response only served to confirm his suspicions.

Not good. From the corner of his eye, he caught the shift in Amber’s demeanour. He could only follow suit, shoulders stiffening, attention cemented to Hassan’s sword should the latter decide to draw it. Even his stallion appeared to sense his discomfort; it made a low growling sound as it nervously stomped its hoofs on the ground, as if it wanted to leave this place. Its master made no motion to calm it; he himself was beginning to grow more and more unsettled.

‘Who sent you here?’ He demanded an explanation, ignoring the fact that Theris appeared defencive when Amber expressed her own wariness for the man.

 

[Disco]

Amber Moorhardt​

Amber caught wind of the displeasure Theris sent her way. That, among Hassan's words, made Amber less defensive. He was a mercenary, simple as that. What he was doing here seemed a matter of personal investment rather attempt to ruin the others so early on. And similar to most mercenaries, he was very expressive with words. Amber closed her eyes for a moment, taking a deep breath. If Master Hui (who-eh) saw her this aggressive towards others he'd be more than upset. Her breath let out some air, even past the scarf. Amber forced herself to relax.

Despite all of this, Hassan was finding ways to agitate the young Amber. His phrasing of words, his attitude, it all carried a specific smugness to it that she wasn't fond of. Maybe it just reminded her of the slimiest of clients her mother had to deal with. The worst apples of the bunch.

What was most concerning now was Sebastion's change in pace. While Amber relaxed herself, Sebsation seemed more and more assertive. She could tell he was some paranoid soldier, but it borderline seemed like he was ready to cut Hassan down in a single stroke. "Sebastion." Amber perked up, loud as she would be comfortable with.

"He's just another merc. I assumed the lot of you were." Amber's gaze slowly trailed from each of them in order. "If someone sent him to kill us, he'd be a damned idiot to try and do so now." What was the most concerning about this conversation was the lack of consistency. They needed answers and an actual goal.

Amber cleared her throat quietly after this. It seemed as if Amber makes an active effort to make her voice larger, less coarse, but to no avail.

Grouse idalie SecretRock