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| Rites; Part 2: The City of Four | |
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| Topic Started: Mar 11 2012, 03:14 AM (738 Views) | |
| Volksgeist | Mar 11 2012, 03:14 AM Post #1 |
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The City of Four was a sight to behold. Darieal had been there plenty of times throughout his life; countless were the times he had stayed within its walls, countless the times he had stood guard at the smaller High Temples. However, once they finally entered the last section of the mountain pass, The City finally became visible and all of the memories were abolished. Instead, all that stood was the corporeal, and it was strange, and alien, and extremely beautiful all at once. There were six towers, three on each side of the pass, as they made their way toward the Crescent Gate. Shortly before the first set of towers, the gravelly ground gave way to hard cobbled stone, and the steady thump of horses announced their presence. The first set of towers were squat and wide, and like the others, set into the black glassy slants of the mountains that encompassed them. Atop the towers were great bell-holds, and as they passed Darieal could see faces from the small archer windows flash away to tell the other guards of the approaching party. Almost as if on cue, as soon as they had passed the first set of towers, the bells in the towers struck once, ringing off the surrounding area and announcing the approaching party. The second set of towers was taller, and when they passed these towers the bells sounded twice to signify their closeness to the gate. Finally, they reached the gate. On either side of the gate stood the last towers, tall and slender and monumental in height. Guards of the Four Thrones, the Aegis as they were called, came from the towers and greeted the party of hedge knights, merchants, Edon, and Darieal with the utmost courtesy. They were led to the gate, which was made of thick black stone in the shape of the top half of a circle. Inset in the gate were images: the bottom depicted men fighting with swords and shields, on horseback and on foot; above was a depiction of the night sky, the moon watching ever silently as a sharp-edged crescent on the bloodshed below, a blanket of clouds cutting it apart from the fighting itself; finally, above that were four men in four thrones, crowns floating above their heads as if mystical halos bestowed upon them by The High Pantheon themselves. It was a piece to remember, the triumph of the Four Thrones and the peace they brought over the darkness and bloodshed of the Era of Blood. The guard moved his hand and shouted to other guards high above on the thick wall that connected the towers and in which the great door was set. There was a thick clunk and they heard as strange and hidden mechanisms turned within the wall, cranking the thick slabs of obsidian that made up the gate open. The party was ferried inside. The City of Four stretched as far as the eye could see. All of the buildings were cubic in structure and the ones closest to the wall were low and only one story, though they did have basements. As the buildings continued toward the center, they rose higher and higher in tiers, the poorest living near the wall and the richest living closest to the center of The City. In the very center stood the monolithic castle that housed the Four Thrones, known to all as the Alabaster Keep. There were four towers at least twice the size of those at each of the gates, each of those towers pointing in a different compass direction. Inset slightly more and raised up were four more towers, pointing in the diagonal directional. Finally, raised up one more tear with many adornments and a wide dome upon its top was the actual castle itself, flying the banner of The Four Thrones, silver and emblazoned with a black crown, and below that the banners of each house that made up The Four Thrones. It was near the center of The City, directly next to the castle, that the High Temple of Ambriel stood in all of its alabaster glory, colored windows sparkling in the light to depict all five gods. It was a wondrous sight to behold. They traversed the city and made their way to the castle, the merchants moving away from the group and out into The City. It was not long before they had reached the steps of that lead to the great doors of the High Temple of Ambriel. Edon and Darieal climbed it and, once they reached the top, they were quickly met by two other Templars who ferried them inside. When an Abbot questioned Darieal about the "boy" he was with, he replied that it was his nephew come for the Tourney, and all was dismissed. Surely they knew that Darieal was a bastard, but this did not mean that he had no siblings and so a nephew was plausible. Both were given quarters within the Templars' quarters. Once established, there was some free time before Darieal's shift of watch began to look around The City, a place so strange to Edon who had lived in the Witchwood her entire life. |
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| Flynn The Rambler | Mar 27 2012, 04:44 PM Post #2 |
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I Get things Done, by being Big and being Bad.
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Darieal was tired, but excited. After the story of his "nephew" took hold, he was more than happy to be in the Temple. The Grandest of all Temples. He lost himself for a half hour, just wandering the halls, viewing the grand paintings and the stain glass. He then knelt and prayed for a few minutes, to give thanks... and to ask for guidance for what is up a head. Truth be told, Darieal was slightly ashamed of himself. He had horrible thoughts about Edon, he actually caught himself thinking it might be best to end her. He had long shook the thoughts from his mind, but he prayed for forgiveness all the same. He then had a small smile, wondering if the High Pantheon would even punish him for such thoughts. He decided that he would do nothing to her, it would be wrong to so. At least that is what he believed in. He also was struggling with the things her mother had said, her words were still clear in his head. As if she had just spoke them, he tried to better understand what this all ment, he also tried to figure out how he truly fit into it all. Shame washed over him again as he remembered how she looked, how she was... nude. While Darieal was very familiar with battle and death, he had never seen a nude woman. He was a healthy man who had his curiosities, but he had always remained loyal to the teachings. That and he did enjoy the stories of true love, and he knew the difference between love and lust. At least he thought he did. He pushed the thought of her body out of his mind and again prayed for forgiveness. He was caste, for the good of the Temple. He stood after his prayer, and scratched his head, he breathed in deep the smell of the incense in the air. He decided it would good to talk to his nephew, he wondered how she was handling all of this. He had in fact been selfish the past hour dealing with his own worries. He shook his head. A better man would have made sure she settled in, rather than praying for his own soul. Others before thy self. He walked off toward their rooms, he walked up to her room door and gave it a knock. He spoke softly, as was tradition in the church, It is Darieal, I was wondering if you wished to speak. He smiled slightly as he realized how odd this would seem for an uncle to do. He was just glad he was alone in the hall. He waited for her to reply, he would never intrude, she could be indecent after all. ((Sorry for the delay! I have been busy!)) |
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| Brackenwood | Apr 12 2012, 09:53 PM Post #3 |
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Come in Uncle! Darieal heard Edon’s voice answer through the door, still playing the part of the Templars nephew. Entering the room, Darieal was greeted with the sight of Edon, sitting cross-legged on one of the beds, Witchknife in hand. He could barely get the door shut behind him before she started in. You’re a fool Templar, do you know that? What Uncle asks for his nephew’s permission before entering a room? Were you trying to protect my honor?. Edon’s eyes stayed focus on Darieal as though trying to burn a hole through his head with her will. The Witchknife hummed as she fiddled with it, as though it was chiding him as well. Though the gesture is appreciated, it is a gesture best discarded. Men do not fear to see other men naked especially if they are kin. Edon finished her scolding with a slight sigh, slipping the knife back into the loop on her belt. To answer your question, no, I do not wish to talk, but I take it that you do? Or if not; then you at least have questions for me? Ask them then, there is no reason to stand on ceremony. Edited by Brackenwood, Apr 12 2012, 09:57 PM.
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| Flynn The Rambler | Apr 17 2012, 04:24 PM Post #4 |
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I Get things Done, by being Big and being Bad.
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Darieal stood for a moment, in shock. Anger then began to take over, he had been nothing but tolerent of her and her strangeness, and yet she continued to spit in his eye. He closed his eyes and shook his head. His large frame filled the room. He let his hands clinch into two large fists. Then he looked at her, Shooting her the first angry look he has yet to do. I am not a fool! I may not be as wise as some men, but I am no fool. I may not understand as much as you do, or as much as you act like you do... but I would greatly appriciate it if you at least pretended to show me some respect. Good day. Darieal's hushed voice seeped in anger. He was tired and felt as if she was constantly proding at his good side. He closed his eyes and left the room, quietly closeing the door behind him. He walked along the hall of the church and allowed his anger to fly from him. He then asked for forgiveness for show such anger, it was not something he should do. He contiuned to walk about, looking for the Father, maybe find what he could do to help. A large strong hunter of the tainted is normaly nice to have about to keep order. |
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| Brackenwood | Apr 17 2012, 06:20 PM Post #5 |
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Darieal didn't have far to walk before he found who he was looking for, or rather, who he was looking for found him. From a narrow hallway leading away from the cloister a lone abbot shuffled into view. He was a willowy man, possibly in his late thirties. Tall and gaunt, though now where near as tall as Darieal. As he shuffled toward Darieal, it became clear he was perturbed by something. Narrow, skeletal hands, the color of fresh snow, wringing themselves red, dark sunken eyes shifted from side to side. His balding head hung low, long nose pointing straight at the ground. He was muttering something about "trouble in the nave" as he ran headlong into Darieal, crying out with surprise as the collision ripped him from his thoughts. Oh! Oh, most blessed Darieal Letholdus, thank the heavens you are here! Please come quickly, you are needed in the nave. His Majesty, Lord Rodrick Greford is has graced this temple with his presence. As he spoke he began to tug Darieal in the direction of the nave, like a small child. But those absolute FOOLS, that serve as temple guard had the audacity to interrupt his visit! Can you believe it? The sheer nerve! Bothering one of the Four over a simple pickpocket that they apprehended, it's a disgrace! He threw up his hands in frustration, and sighed before continuing the exasperation slowly draining from his tone as hope for a quick fix to the problem took over. Please, take you nephew to the nave and help sort things out. A good bit of experience for him, wouldn't you agree? OH! OH! A thief? Here?! Do I get a sword, Uncle?! Do I? As though on cue, Edon came bounding down the hall, acting every bit the excited nephew that she was supposed to be. She fixed her eyes first on Darieal, then the abbot. Bowing deeply she spoke again. Don’t worry sir, Abbot. My Uncle and I will take care of that thief! Her large grey eyes shot back to Darieal expectantly, Right uncle? Darieal didn’t get a chance to respond before the abbot was behind them, giving them both a light shove in the direction of the nave. Yes, Yes, of course. Now be on your best behavior young man, Lord Rodrik of the Four Crowns is here, and I will not have him offended. And, thank you most honored Darieal, for your unwavering service to our Temple. Once you have resolved the thief issue, could you and the boy stand watch? We are a bit short handed at the moment, and having you stand gaurd would be most appreciated. And as always, may the Pantheon smile upon you! With that the abbot returned to his shuffling. And Darieal was once again left alone with Edon. Please go to Public - "The High Temple of St. Ambriel" and make your initial post there. Follow the rules! Edited by Brackenwood, Apr 17 2012, 06:21 PM.
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| Brackenwood | May 9 2012, 03:22 PM Post #6 |
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Darieal's trip back to the private quarters was anything but peaceful. Though the halls had been empty, Darieal's mind had lost in a fog of intrusive thoughts that refused to quiet themselves, the feeling of unease weighing heavily upon him. Are you feeling unwell Templar? Edon’s voice called out to him from somewhere behind him as the door closed with a soft thud. You seem ill at ease. Did something or someone in the temple offend your noble sensibilities, or are you finding your thoughts drifting to something less...pure? For the briefest of moments She flashed Darieal a knowing, all be it smug smile and awaited his response. |
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| Flynn The Rambler | May 10 2012, 04:12 PM Post #7 |
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I Get things Done, by being Big and being Bad.
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Darieal looked down at her, peer at her though his helm. He remained calm, but couldn't help but brew anger at the way she continued to goat at him. Sometimes these things happen. One can find themselves being the target of stones. He shook his head and went into his room. Closing the door behind him, he sat on his bed and took off his helm, he then looked up at Edon. He placed one hand on his chin, allowing his head to rest. It is true, I do have less than pure thoughts, I am only man. If I were to lie and try to act as if I had no imperfections, I would be much worse off. As far as my thoughts, they have been drifting to battle. I fear that danger might be in places it is not. That man with the straw hat... there seemed to be something off about him, I could Feel it. The hunting of the... Tainted, the tracking them down and sending them back to the gods... It almost became second nature to seek out the guilty. Now here I set, with You off all people. Too stupid to put you down... making myself a failure to the Templars and to myself. Heh, oddly enough... I wished that I was important... Vanity... something I should not have, I guess i just... well I... Darieal hung his head, avoiding her gaze for a few moments, letting out a large sigh. He then raised his head and looked at the "young" witch. I wished that I did in fact have someone who wanted me to return... how funny... So... Edon, now what? You have followed me here, why do you plague me still? He leaned back onto the wall and looked at her, he still couldnt believe how old she was, and how young she looked. At least she looked better fed now. His mind drifted about thinking about the witch, wondering things. He felt slightly better geting his emotions off his chest. As strange as it was, Edon was the closest thing he had to a friend.
Edited by Flynn The Rambler, May 10 2012, 04:12 PM.
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| Brackenwood | May 12 2012, 03:34 PM Post #8 |
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At first, Edon said nothing, merely watching the Templar for a moment as though stunned by his last query. Making her way to her own bed she quietly sat on the side, her legs swinging idly. After a few moments she focused her gaze upon Darieal, her voice breaking the long silence. No one can fault you for looking for evil when that is all you've known for so long Templar. I for one believe it to be one of your best qualities. However, when you go searching for evil, it is often evil that finds you, and it often comes from the most unexpected places. Men guided so strongly by their beliefs that they would burn thousands of innocents In blind zealotry and and call their actions just, that- She severed her words mid sentence and cleared her throat. Unexpected places Templar, remember that. As for the fool in the straw hat, well. you were right to question him. He was hiding something, poorly. The man that accompanied the young Lady, knew that just as you did, did you see how he sent the fool away when he offered his services? The man is not to be trusted, though I doubt he seeks confrontation. In fact, it seems as though he wants to hide. And as for me Templar... I have told you. You have set in motion a chain of events that will....alter the course of this land. I don't know how, or when, but there will be change, and I need to be there when it happens. Beyond that, my reasons are my own. You needn't know more. So Templar, tell me, how do you find yourself now? Still lost? Or was this chat enough to clear your head a bit? |
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| Flynn The Rambler | May 12 2012, 06:10 PM Post #9 |
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I Get things Done, by being Big and being Bad.
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Darieal listend to her watching her movements. He understood what she was saying, but she was still frustrating him. So I am somehow part of some "thing" that you dont even know when will happen, and you wont even tell me why your still following me about, even though its my life, and yours, that you are putting in danger? That is wrong, Tell me what you have in plan, I have risked my life to hide you, you could at least trust me with that. He looked at her and waited for an answer, his eyes glared at her. He was mad, he felt like she was talking all he knew and spiting on it. |
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| Brackenwood | May 16 2012, 04:33 PM Post #10 |
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If Edon was picking up on Darieal's anger, she wasn't showing it. Her eyes remained as they always did, Resolute and unblinking. Darieal, if I actually knew, what was going to happen, I would tell you. My only plan has been to follow you, to observe the change you will bring upon this world. My magic does not give me all the answers to my question. At best, I get hints and feelings. That's what i get from you Templar. I feel that you will be an instrument of great change and that i must follow you and witness this change. I am sorry but I can give you no more, for I have nothing left to give. I do trust you Darieal, that is why I chose to follow you, chose to intrust you with my secret. You are a good man Templar, I ask only that you trust me a little while longer. With that, Edon simply turned and walked from the room. Leaving the Templar alone. What he would do with this solitude was up to him.
Edited by Brackenwood, May 16 2012, 11:54 PM.
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| Flynn The Rambler | May 17 2012, 03:38 PM Post #11 |
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I Get things Done, by being Big and being Bad.
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Darieal watched as she left, he felt bad now. He didnt like hurting other peoples feelings. He was mad at her, but it was wrong to have gotten so mad at her. He laid back on his bed, and just let out a huge sigh. letting his anger roll away from his body. He would have to apologize to her later. How will I change the world? Why has this happened to me, why am I important? ...heh, isnt that what I just asked for? Gods I am truly lost. My mind a whirl and the image of Edon's mother still burned into my head, I wish I knew I was doing the right thing! I wont hurt a child, I know that much, nor will I allow her to come to harm. Even if... she is a witch... I have shamed myself, havent I? Perhaps it is time to sleep, worry not of the past, and dwell only on the present. Yes, and the present says sleep. For a little while... After laying down and thinking for a good hour or so, Darieal decided to take a nap. He figured that he should treat Edon more like the "nephew" she is supposed to be, maybe he would take the time to show her something with a blade. With that he tried to go to sleep. |
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| Volksgeist | May 23 2012, 08:12 PM Post #12 |
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OOC
Thread is on hold until others reach the Tourney time. Please wait patiently! You gained 2 Stat EXP! You gained 2 Skill EXP! Profile Updated! |
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| Volksgeist | Jun 1 2012, 04:02 AM Post #13 |
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The time of the tourney had arrived. People were milling about all over The City of Four. There were members of every main house and many of the minor houses, all lodged in different inns, and each day the roads of The City seemed a little more crowded. Many merchants and peddlers had appeared within The City, seemingly overnight. With the massive crowds, the makeshift tents set up all over the street, and the general congestion of the roads, it was almost impossible to navigate on foot, let alone on horseback... and yet the Aegis still maintained such an air of authority that people parted easily when they passed. This made it much easier for all of those from major Houses of Peleras to make it around The City, and often one could tell when those noble faces were making their way around The City by the parting and watchful eyes of the people. It was the night before the tourney, and many a peasant were coming in and out of The High Temple of St. Ambriel to petition The High Pantheon for aid in the tourney the next day. Darieal was on watch with Edon by his side, as per usual. Perhaps nothing of supreme interest would happen... but with so many people, that did not seem so likely. |
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| Flynn The Rambler | Jun 1 2012, 04:12 PM Post #14 |
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I Get things Done, by being Big and being Bad.
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Darieal looked about the crowds. He was watching, and waiting. The Faceless helm of the Templar slowly moved left to right, gazing over everything. He paused a moment and looked down at Edon. She still pestered him, but he couldn't help but admire her bravery. He reached a hand down and ruffled her hair, he smiled as he did so, not that it could be seen. Tis an interesting event eh? Not like to see for quite some time... I have always wondered what it would be like to compete in such a thing... though something of the sort is out of the question. Are you hungry my boy? Darieal looked down at his "Nephew". He was proud at her good behavior today, and was thinking about giving her a bit of copper to buy something tasty. He couldnt help but smile to himself, the fact he was doing something helped put his mind at ease, but never dulled its senses. |
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| Brackenwood | Jun 4 2012, 07:59 PM Post #15 |
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A bit Uncle, but it won't keep me from my duty! Edon piped up,answering her "Uncles" question while keeping up the ruse with tireless, and somewhat surprising enthusiasm. The pair had been on watch for some time now and she too had been scanning the crowds, Mimicking Darieal's stance and demeanor almost perfectly, earning her a few giggles and coos form passing women, who found her actions cute. Though seemingly sincere in her desire to help Darieal with his job, All Edon's short stature really lent her was a good look at peoples waists, which, in and of itself, could have proven to be useful. But for now, all she could really do was to measure how wealthy people were by the size of their guts. Why can't you compete in the tourney uncle? She spoke up again after a short pause. I think you could use the break, and I bet you'd have more than a fair shot at winning. Besides, all i see around here are some common folk and a few merchants. Maybe the occasional drunk, but surely nothing the temple guards can't handle. Although... Her grey eyes shifted up as though deep in thought, a mischievous grin slowly spreading across her face. Given their knack for mistaking Nobles as pickpockets....maybe it is best we stay here. |
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12:14 AM Jul 11