It had been some time since he had first heard of the Keepers of Balance and now he had met four of them: Sanria, Vorcet, Orn and Kineada. He knew Kineada from long ago, remembered Vorcet from when he was a Crimson Guardian, and there was an inkling that he might have heard or met Sanria at one point, but if he had it was brief, Orn he had not met before though it seemed he was distracted by his young ones.
He talked with each one, answered their questions and asked some of his own, in the end he was welcomed as a Keeper of Balance. After the meeting he wandered the castle, taking it in. He perused the library, starting to read each book that the thought might hold some information of use. After several days of reading, feeling frustrated, he decided to see what was on the outside of the walls of the castle, maybe go visit the town that he had been told of.
Exiting the castle doors he met with a tall emaciated person with a large bear at their side. Upon closer look it was a skeleton, a heucuva, he had known of a few of them long ago. After a brief inspection on both parties the heucuva introduced itself, with a bit of enthusiasm, as Kaz. He had been staying in the town and had not seen anyone actually exit the castle before, about how he had been staying in the town for some time helping the innkeeper. Wanting to see the town, Tenchi asked if he would like to show him the town, and talk some more.
Each taking a seat at the couch in the inn they talked, for awhile, about the Keepers and about Kaz's past. While Kaz was talking he took notice of Tenchi's hands moving to his legs, his robes were darkening red and beginning to stick to his legs. Tenchi tried to sidestep the question saying that it was nothing to be concerned about, Kaz wasn't dissuaded and insisted on wanting to know. Tenchi revealed that it was an injury he sustained some time ago, Kaz had wondered how he was even alive with such an injury to one leg, let alone both. Continuing to explain Tenchi said it refused to heal even with his natural regeneration ability, which was the reason he was still living, it only slowed down the decay. Kaz mentioned that it might possibly be a poison, something Tenchi had not thought of or even considered.
Kineada had showed up at some point, apologizing if he was interrupting and wanted to speak with Kaz for a little bit, but that was not on Tenchi's mind, he was busy thinking of what new research he would have to do as to see what poison might have caused such damage. After some time Kineada excused himself, Tenchi had been responding and answering questions, but that had not been at the forefront of his mind. Kaz had said to go seek an apothecary, and that was just what Tenchi had intended on doing.
Showing posts with label Kineada. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kineada. Show all posts
Redirected Attention
Sanria settled herself in Sandrine's Tea Shop in the castle amongst the cushions and looked over at a man who appeared average and non-descript. Tenchi was his name, and it was a name that had crossed her desk several times, though she had not had the mental capacity to even begin to deal with the application. Now, however, she was desperate to give herself a little distance with which to think. She needed to raise her head above the woes of her family circumstances and really do some work.
They spoke for a time, teacups in hand, about his discovery of the island and the Keepers. His voice was gentle as he spoke, as though humble and a little unsure. He also seemed to start when a member of the Keepers would arrive, each new face catching him unawares, as though he had been somewhere for a long while where no people had been.
Vorcet came, then Kineada, then Orn (accompanied by two crying babies which gave Sanria pause to collect her grandchildren that she had not seen in many days). The questions were from all angles, the interview, which it had become, was a success. The few hours spent in conversation with Tenchi helped to refresh Sanria in ways nothing else had. In a unanimous agreement, they welcomed Tenchi into the Keepers of Balance.
Though she wondered about his past, Sanria could tell that he was a good soul. Moreover since Kineada knew him from a previous time. She excused herself, swapping infants to give a pacified Regina to Orn in exchange for a squalling Reggie, and went to her office. She calmed the baby boy with a warm smile and gentle squeezes, then held him in her arm as she looked through the other accumulated papers on her desk. Others wished to join, others needed to be reached.
Sanria gave a deep sigh as Orn walked in and pushed the work to the back of her mind. She could sense Tenchi roaming the castle and she smiled. The family on the island had grown and for the better, she felt. "We have more who wish to join us, Orn," she said, nodding to the papers. "Oh, really?" he replied, looking quite flustered, Regina having started crying anew. He patted the baby's back with a new parent exasperation. "Soon," Sanria chuckled, taking both babies into her arms to give Orn a moment's peace. "We'll get to them soon."
They spoke for a time, teacups in hand, about his discovery of the island and the Keepers. His voice was gentle as he spoke, as though humble and a little unsure. He also seemed to start when a member of the Keepers would arrive, each new face catching him unawares, as though he had been somewhere for a long while where no people had been.
Vorcet came, then Kineada, then Orn (accompanied by two crying babies which gave Sanria pause to collect her grandchildren that she had not seen in many days). The questions were from all angles, the interview, which it had become, was a success. The few hours spent in conversation with Tenchi helped to refresh Sanria in ways nothing else had. In a unanimous agreement, they welcomed Tenchi into the Keepers of Balance.
Though she wondered about his past, Sanria could tell that he was a good soul. Moreover since Kineada knew him from a previous time. She excused herself, swapping infants to give a pacified Regina to Orn in exchange for a squalling Reggie, and went to her office. She calmed the baby boy with a warm smile and gentle squeezes, then held him in her arm as she looked through the other accumulated papers on her desk. Others wished to join, others needed to be reached.
Sanria gave a deep sigh as Orn walked in and pushed the work to the back of her mind. She could sense Tenchi roaming the castle and she smiled. The family on the island had grown and for the better, she felt. "We have more who wish to join us, Orn," she said, nodding to the papers. "Oh, really?" he replied, looking quite flustered, Regina having started crying anew. He patted the baby's back with a new parent exasperation. "Soon," Sanria chuckled, taking both babies into her arms to give Orn a moment's peace. "We'll get to them soon."
Current Character Description - Kineada
"There is no beginning, there can be no end..."
Standing at an average height, and with a strong physique that seems to clash with the wrinkles around his jade green eyes, the exotically clad fellow could be none other than Kineada, Wu Jen, Shadow Bushi. Once and again a follower of the fire-haired diety of passion and vanity, Kineada now walks his path with his own sense of purpose.
His outlandish dark green and black armor seems to shine with a brilliant light from within, perhaps a reflection of the fire in his eyes. Two swords hang at his waist, always at the ready, along with his repetoir of magickal spells.
Standing at an average height, and with a strong physique that seems to clash with the wrinkles around his jade green eyes, the exotically clad fellow could be none other than Kineada, Wu Jen, Shadow Bushi. Once and again a follower of the fire-haired diety of passion and vanity, Kineada now walks his path with his own sense of purpose.
His outlandish dark green and black armor seems to shine with a brilliant light from within, perhaps a reflection of the fire in his eyes. Two swords hang at his waist, always at the ready, along with his repetoir of magickal spells.
Missives in the Dark
*Snow-white, Ferin wings his way to you. He perches, his head cocked, and looks at Kineada with a question in his eyes. He seems to understand something, and once the missive has been read, takes the scroll in his beak and arrives at Orn's side. He drops the beak-creased scroll into his lap and gives a screech. He vanishes just as fast to deliver his remaining missive to Vorcet.*
Kineada and Vorcet,
I write this because I have been quite involved in my newest family and growing settled in here has been... new and a slight bit difficult. Change ever is.
At any rate - I met with Ror some time ago and he showed interest in bringing culture and education to Westbridge. As I have a past with him, I was hoping that one of you might arrange to speak with him and consider what he has to say. I'm not opposed to seeing a library and school in Westbridge for the newly liberated.
We can offer at least something - be it teachers or scribes perhaps to aid in getting the endeavor on its feet - if we choose to involve ourselves.
Should you have need of me, I can be found in the cottage in the eastern section of the Druid's Grove. I will likely be here for a bit longer, attempting to settle Matinus into some semblance of a family life that he's been missing for so long. He reminds me so much of Orn - a strong boy with a good heart and capable mind.
Wishing you well,
Sanria
Kineada and Vorcet,
I write this because I have been quite involved in my newest family and growing settled in here has been... new and a slight bit difficult. Change ever is.
At any rate - I met with Ror some time ago and he showed interest in bringing culture and education to Westbridge. As I have a past with him, I was hoping that one of you might arrange to speak with him and consider what he has to say. I'm not opposed to seeing a library and school in Westbridge for the newly liberated.
We can offer at least something - be it teachers or scribes perhaps to aid in getting the endeavor on its feet - if we choose to involve ourselves.
Should you have need of me, I can be found in the cottage in the eastern section of the Druid's Grove. I will likely be here for a bit longer, attempting to settle Matinus into some semblance of a family life that he's been missing for so long. He reminds me so much of Orn - a strong boy with a good heart and capable mind.
Wishing you well,
Sanria
Family Life
Sanria had a moment to herself. Gilean was still at the temple, as he had been for many late nights. He would come back to the cottage worn out, the people of Westbridge still needing healing and help long after the battle with Kefka had passed. She had put Nioma to bed, tucked Matinus in after reading to him (a pasttime the boy seemed unable to get enough of), and settled herself in the library with her pack.
She found her unfinished note to the Keepers and cursed herself. In all her time with Gilean and settling in to a new life she had completely forgotten Ror's request. It was simple enough to finish the missive to her fellow leaders and send it off. After the last time in the cafe with Ror, she felt it best she remain as much out of his life as possible. Being strictly business with a past flame was never one of Sanria's strong suits.
Finished with the missive, Sanria opened her window and called to Ferin. Though it was dark, the falcon appeared on wings nearly as silent as an owl. "Take this to Vorcet and Kineada my friend." She sent a mental image to the bird and watched as he vanished into the trees.
As Sanria stared out into the star-studded night sky, a movement caught her gaze. She looked down into the trees and caught the small motion of a tiny red light move in a small arc. In the darkness it brightened, then dimmed as it went back down again. The motion repeated once again before it vanished. It was unsettling, not knowing what it was before her, and Sanria closed the window and drew the drapes. Something wasn't right.
She found her unfinished note to the Keepers and cursed herself. In all her time with Gilean and settling in to a new life she had completely forgotten Ror's request. It was simple enough to finish the missive to her fellow leaders and send it off. After the last time in the cafe with Ror, she felt it best she remain as much out of his life as possible. Being strictly business with a past flame was never one of Sanria's strong suits.
Finished with the missive, Sanria opened her window and called to Ferin. Though it was dark, the falcon appeared on wings nearly as silent as an owl. "Take this to Vorcet and Kineada my friend." She sent a mental image to the bird and watched as he vanished into the trees.
As Sanria stared out into the star-studded night sky, a movement caught her gaze. She looked down into the trees and caught the small motion of a tiny red light move in a small arc. In the darkness it brightened, then dimmed as it went back down again. The motion repeated once again before it vanished. It was unsettling, not knowing what it was before her, and Sanria closed the window and drew the drapes. Something wasn't right.
Mrs. Gilean Eosos?
"And so he asked you?" Enmach said, her expression patient as she paced the small section of the library where Sanria had holed herself up. Sanria sat in the chair, her feet tucked beneath her, a closed book on her lap. This wasn't what she had in mind when telling Enmach the news, the silver skinned companion hounding her for answers. Sanria felt as though she were reporting to her mother.
"Yes. He did ask me."
"Sanria, I have to advise against this. I truly do." Emach finally sat down, giving Sanria the chance to rest her eyes on a still being.
"What am I supposed to do, Enmach? Why wait? What am I waiting for?"
"Time and distance."
"I don't want distance."
"I mean between you and Colin and you and Thasmudyan and, have you even given yourself time since you left Ror?"
"No..."
"Precisely. You can't possibly take on a commitment like this and expect to use it to hide."
"I'm not hiding!"
The outburst drew a quick glance from Melanie Moles, the librarian, who gave a scathing shush and vanished once again in the stacks. "I'm not hiding," Sanria repeated in a harsh whisper. "I'm moving on. I'm making a choice and sticking with it. I'm choosing a family for Nioma and Matinus, one with a father and a mother and a house, and maybe even a dog."
"Sanria. Nioma has no need for a dog, and she is just fine here with every- one that has a hand in caring for her. You know that. I know not this other child you speak of, but I'm certain his father will do what is best for him."
"I've already said yes," Sanria said plainly.
"Then tell him no, tell him to wait, I'm sure he'll understand. Besides, what if one of the others comes back and you do something... ah, foolish?"
"I've already told Thasmudyan I am choosing Gilean, I've already told Colin, and Ror... well... I've..."
"Not spoken to him even though he's sent that letter about Westbridge."
"Vorcet or Kineada can speak with him regarding a school."
"Hiding."
Sanria stood up, gripping the book, 'Medicinal Chemistry,' at her side. "I am not hiding. I'm choosing."
"Choosing to be foolish and do something you know you're going to regret."
"I'm not going to regret anything."
"You certainly are defensive for not regretting anything. Normally when you are this wound up, you've already done something wrong." Enmach avoided looking at Sanria, which infuriated Sanria all the more- but the point was made.
"Would you let this go if I talked to Ror? If I told him my plans?"
"I just think that it may be best for you to take time away from choosing. You've already done a lot of choosing and perhaps it's time for a moment of rest and reflection."
"I can't."
"Can't what?"
Sanria sat back in her chair and looked at Enmach with a frown. "Can't sit still. Can't rest and reflect. I hate myself when I reflect on the things that I've done and the other choices I've made. Gilean makes me feel like- there's something good about me, even with the screw-ups I've had."
"I think the other men in your life have forgiven you, after all, they're still around. One of them can't even remember you and he is trying to stay in your good graces. Are you so foolish you can't see that?"
"I just don't see what time is going to do, Enmach."
"Time will reveal the truth, and the truth will show you balance. When you find balance, you'll find happiness. But if you try to thread the needle with a whole spool, you'll find it won't fit. Patience, trust, and time."
"Sometimes you make me so mad, Enmach, with all your..."
"I know," the silvery woman replied with a smile. "But when have I been wrong?"
"Yes. He did ask me."
"Sanria, I have to advise against this. I truly do." Emach finally sat down, giving Sanria the chance to rest her eyes on a still being.
"What am I supposed to do, Enmach? Why wait? What am I waiting for?"
"Time and distance."
"I don't want distance."
"I mean between you and Colin and you and Thasmudyan and, have you even given yourself time since you left Ror?"
"No..."
"Precisely. You can't possibly take on a commitment like this and expect to use it to hide."
"I'm not hiding!"
The outburst drew a quick glance from Melanie Moles, the librarian, who gave a scathing shush and vanished once again in the stacks. "I'm not hiding," Sanria repeated in a harsh whisper. "I'm moving on. I'm making a choice and sticking with it. I'm choosing a family for Nioma and Matinus, one with a father and a mother and a house, and maybe even a dog."
"Sanria. Nioma has no need for a dog, and she is just fine here with every- one that has a hand in caring for her. You know that. I know not this other child you speak of, but I'm certain his father will do what is best for him."
"I've already said yes," Sanria said plainly.
"Then tell him no, tell him to wait, I'm sure he'll understand. Besides, what if one of the others comes back and you do something... ah, foolish?"
"I've already told Thasmudyan I am choosing Gilean, I've already told Colin, and Ror... well... I've..."
"Not spoken to him even though he's sent that letter about Westbridge."
"Vorcet or Kineada can speak with him regarding a school."
"Hiding."
Sanria stood up, gripping the book, 'Medicinal Chemistry,' at her side. "I am not hiding. I'm choosing."
"Choosing to be foolish and do something you know you're going to regret."
"I'm not going to regret anything."
"You certainly are defensive for not regretting anything. Normally when you are this wound up, you've already done something wrong." Enmach avoided looking at Sanria, which infuriated Sanria all the more- but the point was made.
"Would you let this go if I talked to Ror? If I told him my plans?"
"I just think that it may be best for you to take time away from choosing. You've already done a lot of choosing and perhaps it's time for a moment of rest and reflection."
"I can't."
"Can't what?"
Sanria sat back in her chair and looked at Enmach with a frown. "Can't sit still. Can't rest and reflect. I hate myself when I reflect on the things that I've done and the other choices I've made. Gilean makes me feel like- there's something good about me, even with the screw-ups I've had."
"I think the other men in your life have forgiven you, after all, they're still around. One of them can't even remember you and he is trying to stay in your good graces. Are you so foolish you can't see that?"
"I just don't see what time is going to do, Enmach."
"Time will reveal the truth, and the truth will show you balance. When you find balance, you'll find happiness. But if you try to thread the needle with a whole spool, you'll find it won't fit. Patience, trust, and time."
"Sometimes you make me so mad, Enmach, with all your..."
"I know," the silvery woman replied with a smile. "But when have I been wrong?"
Letting Go
Sanria had enough time to check in with Leandra, who had been staying at the cavern alone with her husband, Askari and their baby, when Orn's voice sounded in her mind. "Leandra, can you watch Nioma while I check in with your brother?"
"How long are you going to be?" Leandra asked, hand on her hip.
"I... please? It shouldn't be long."
"Yeah, sure." Leandra took Nioma into her arms with a nod. "You gotta be sure you're back soon, though. I know how Orn is and how he thinks he's like, the most important thing on the planet."
"Leandra-"
"I know, I know. He still gets on my nerves."
Sanria arrived in her office to find Orn already waiting. She had a feeling, that could only be described as a curling cold in her stomach. When Orn pulled the note she had written to the clan from his pocket, her worst thoughts were confirmed. Everything in her wanted to send him out of the office right then, but she would have to listen. She tried to turn off her own motherly instincts, her face going authoritative to hear what she knew was coming: "I got the missive. And I want to help."
"Alright," Sanria said, leaning on her desk. "What was it that you wanted to do?"
"Reggie and I, we can help to free Westbridge."
"And... how are you wanting to do this?"
"These Radiant Heart people... they are supposed to be helping to liberate the city, right?"
"Yes, they will be doing the fighting. Not us." The look on Orn's face gave away the fact he had caught her in her own lie. "But you said they need help."
"We don't know what they need just yet."
"Then why did you ask for people to help if you don't want them to sign up to help?"
She couldn't keep up her facade, and her shoulders slumped ever so slightly. She would have to come clean with her desire. "I... I can't have you putting yourself in that position."
"What? Mom. And if Kineada or Kronk were to come and say he was going to help them fight, would you tell him that you don't want him doing that?"
"No. I wouldn't. But he's experienced in fighting and he's not my s..."
"Mom, I didn't join the clan so I could be treated differently because I'm your son."
"Orn... I can't have you fighting. Please... if there's something else, anything else..."
"Mom. I know how to fight. Dad taught me a lot... before... and it's not exactly like they need someone to gather intelligence from trees."
"You're not my little boy anymore."
"No Mom, I'm not."
"Then what more can I say?"
"That you believe in me?"
The statement left Sanria speechless for a few moments. She did believe in him, but he was also her child, and she couldn't shake the feeling that Colin would be of the same mindset. Still, it was this moment she also realized that the child she and so many others had protected was as much a man as the men of her clan. She watched Orn go, promising to let Radiant know they could count on him, and felt the overwhelming need to get home. There, she could let herself feel in privacy. There, she wasn't a leader, but a mother who had just promised her son in battle.
"How long are you going to be?" Leandra asked, hand on her hip.
"I... please? It shouldn't be long."
"Yeah, sure." Leandra took Nioma into her arms with a nod. "You gotta be sure you're back soon, though. I know how Orn is and how he thinks he's like, the most important thing on the planet."
"Leandra-"
"I know, I know. He still gets on my nerves."
Sanria arrived in her office to find Orn already waiting. She had a feeling, that could only be described as a curling cold in her stomach. When Orn pulled the note she had written to the clan from his pocket, her worst thoughts were confirmed. Everything in her wanted to send him out of the office right then, but she would have to listen. She tried to turn off her own motherly instincts, her face going authoritative to hear what she knew was coming: "I got the missive. And I want to help."
"Alright," Sanria said, leaning on her desk. "What was it that you wanted to do?"
"Reggie and I, we can help to free Westbridge."
"And... how are you wanting to do this?"
"These Radiant Heart people... they are supposed to be helping to liberate the city, right?"
"Yes, they will be doing the fighting. Not us." The look on Orn's face gave away the fact he had caught her in her own lie. "But you said they need help."
"We don't know what they need just yet."
"Then why did you ask for people to help if you don't want them to sign up to help?"
She couldn't keep up her facade, and her shoulders slumped ever so slightly. She would have to come clean with her desire. "I... I can't have you putting yourself in that position."
"What? Mom. And if Kineada or Kronk were to come and say he was going to help them fight, would you tell him that you don't want him doing that?"
"No. I wouldn't. But he's experienced in fighting and he's not my s..."
"Mom, I didn't join the clan so I could be treated differently because I'm your son."
"Orn... I can't have you fighting. Please... if there's something else, anything else..."
"Mom. I know how to fight. Dad taught me a lot... before... and it's not exactly like they need someone to gather intelligence from trees."
"You're not my little boy anymore."
"No Mom, I'm not."
"Then what more can I say?"
"That you believe in me?"
The statement left Sanria speechless for a few moments. She did believe in him, but he was also her child, and she couldn't shake the feeling that Colin would be of the same mindset. Still, it was this moment she also realized that the child she and so many others had protected was as much a man as the men of her clan. She watched Orn go, promising to let Radiant know they could count on him, and felt the overwhelming need to get home. There, she could let herself feel in privacy. There, she wasn't a leader, but a mother who had just promised her son in battle.
Coming Clean
*A missive appears in your hands by magic, the handwriting is that of Sanria, and is an open letter to all of the Keepers.*
Keepers,
Greetings. This missive is will be short, but its purpose is to keep you all abreast of developments that I and Vorcet have acted upon and will offer to you to discuss.
We have recently reached out to the Hoard and Radiant Heart in an effort to aid in the overturning of Vector's forces in Westbridge. This was not done in an attempt to bring our clan into war, in fact, we have done this merely as a helping hand as our current place is not on the field of battle... our family is much too small to truly be effective in that regard.
Dryden, a leader of the Hoard, has made it clear that they are waiting on Radiant Heart to make their invasion, but have accepted Vorcet's offer to aid in recognizance. Vorcet has taken on this responsibility of his own choosing and with his own methods, for which I am grateful and respect his choice.
We still wait to hear from Radiant Heart, which seems to be where the Hoard also stands, as there has been inaction for quite some time. I ask that if you wish to be involved or offer your assistance, that you speak with myself, Vorcet, or Kineada that we may reach out to Radiant Heart or the Hoard and make the offer.
As of this time, however, we wait patiently and hope that soon the pain being felt by Westbridgians is not too great. With luck, we will be able to bring about balance and hopefully garner some support for our clan as well as new faces by having our name on a grand plan. With this, we hope to push for the truth in balance so that Westbridge never has to face such an occupation again.
Please be in touch if you wish,
Sanria
Keepers,
Greetings. This missive is will be short, but its purpose is to keep you all abreast of developments that I and Vorcet have acted upon and will offer to you to discuss.
We have recently reached out to the Hoard and Radiant Heart in an effort to aid in the overturning of Vector's forces in Westbridge. This was not done in an attempt to bring our clan into war, in fact, we have done this merely as a helping hand as our current place is not on the field of battle... our family is much too small to truly be effective in that regard.
Dryden, a leader of the Hoard, has made it clear that they are waiting on Radiant Heart to make their invasion, but have accepted Vorcet's offer to aid in recognizance. Vorcet has taken on this responsibility of his own choosing and with his own methods, for which I am grateful and respect his choice.
We still wait to hear from Radiant Heart, which seems to be where the Hoard also stands, as there has been inaction for quite some time. I ask that if you wish to be involved or offer your assistance, that you speak with myself, Vorcet, or Kineada that we may reach out to Radiant Heart or the Hoard and make the offer.
As of this time, however, we wait patiently and hope that soon the pain being felt by Westbridgians is not too great. With luck, we will be able to bring about balance and hopefully garner some support for our clan as well as new faces by having our name on a grand plan. With this, we hope to push for the truth in balance so that Westbridge never has to face such an occupation again.
Please be in touch if you wish,
Sanria
Plans and Revelations
Sanria sat at her desk surrounded by a mound of parchment and books. In the passing of days, she had found herself looking deeper into the one thing the Rilmani wouldn't share with her, the thing that took Colin so far away that he couldn't be found. Planar travel. She shared this with no one, and as Vorcet knocked and entered her office, she took care to hide the parchments and close the books. The obsession was slowly growing, and she had considered, briefly, finding the necklaces that were hidden away - even if they were dangerous.
They were quick to reach the matter at hand: the occupation of Westbridge and the idea that perhaps the time was now to end it. The keepers would not bring about that battle. "The Rilmani have made it clear they will not aid us in this endeavor," said Sanria.
"I can certainly understand their point of view in this. The way things are headed this ends with the city in the control of the TriPower or one of the other forces involved. Which is just as imbalanced as it is now."
"That would be something we would have to discuss with the other sides, a neutral ground. No one wants to see Westbridge back in the hands of an occupying force."
"A Council of the various groups that use Westbridge as a hub would not be a bad idea."
"Indeed. If it were a place for all governments, then it would be unlikely that it would fall again. The people could live in some sort of peace for a change."
But how likely the other forces at work would be willing to see it was beyond Sanria. She had never done anything remotely like involving herself in politics. Not in a fashion where she would reach out to make an offer without having anything to bring in return. The Keepers did not have an army, they did not even have the backing of the Rilmani. They were more of a citizen group, and to top it off, she was moving ahead without waiting for a reply from Kineada.
When Vorcet pulled the Vectorian armors from his pack, they knew then the angle they would have. "Perhaps it is time I put this garment to use," Vorcet said. "I leave my phylactery secured in a place nobody but me can access."
"We might be able to use it if you are willing to gather intelligence. If we can promise Hoard and Radiant that we will aid them without their incurring damage, they may be willing to play by our rules."
"If I am able to successfully infiltrate those guarding the town I may be able to find a weakness in the defenses."
"I don't want you to put yourself in a situation if you aren't absolutely certain," Sanria said, realizing how motherly it sounded. "Danger is the least of the worries. Vector... well... they're..."
"I know well the evils that lie within Vector's borders and what they are capable of."
"Alright. I'll work up a proposal. With luck, they'll accept. If we could get Westbridge balanced... just think of it."
After Vorcet left the office, Sanria glanced over at the stack of planar parchments. With a steeling inhale, she left them at the side and pulled a blank piece from her desk. She then drew up an entreaty to the heads of Hoard and Radiant Heart. She felt a warmth thinking that perhaps Throm would have been proud.
They were quick to reach the matter at hand: the occupation of Westbridge and the idea that perhaps the time was now to end it. The keepers would not bring about that battle. "The Rilmani have made it clear they will not aid us in this endeavor," said Sanria.
"I can certainly understand their point of view in this. The way things are headed this ends with the city in the control of the TriPower or one of the other forces involved. Which is just as imbalanced as it is now."
"That would be something we would have to discuss with the other sides, a neutral ground. No one wants to see Westbridge back in the hands of an occupying force."
"A Council of the various groups that use Westbridge as a hub would not be a bad idea."
"Indeed. If it were a place for all governments, then it would be unlikely that it would fall again. The people could live in some sort of peace for a change."
But how likely the other forces at work would be willing to see it was beyond Sanria. She had never done anything remotely like involving herself in politics. Not in a fashion where she would reach out to make an offer without having anything to bring in return. The Keepers did not have an army, they did not even have the backing of the Rilmani. They were more of a citizen group, and to top it off, she was moving ahead without waiting for a reply from Kineada.
When Vorcet pulled the Vectorian armors from his pack, they knew then the angle they would have. "Perhaps it is time I put this garment to use," Vorcet said. "I leave my phylactery secured in a place nobody but me can access."
"We might be able to use it if you are willing to gather intelligence. If we can promise Hoard and Radiant that we will aid them without their incurring damage, they may be willing to play by our rules."
"If I am able to successfully infiltrate those guarding the town I may be able to find a weakness in the defenses."
"I don't want you to put yourself in a situation if you aren't absolutely certain," Sanria said, realizing how motherly it sounded. "Danger is the least of the worries. Vector... well... they're..."
"I know well the evils that lie within Vector's borders and what they are capable of."
"Alright. I'll work up a proposal. With luck, they'll accept. If we could get Westbridge balanced... just think of it."
After Vorcet left the office, Sanria glanced over at the stack of planar parchments. With a steeling inhale, she left them at the side and pulled a blank piece from her desk. She then drew up an entreaty to the heads of Hoard and Radiant Heart. She felt a warmth thinking that perhaps Throm would have been proud.
New Directions (1-2)
Sanria sent the missive to Kineada and Vorcet, then sat back in her chair. Nioma cooed contentedly on the floor, a rather quiet child by all measures. She closed her eyes. She had to talk to someone, and Enmach was far from helpful in matters where emotions were at stake. The silvery woman was so stoic as to be nearly useless when discussing matters close to the heart. Sanria did the best she could on her own, but nothing was working. Things at her home were falling apart, and if things fell apart there, they'd soon follow her to the castle. A situation she couldn't afford. "Fenlauch," she called in her mind, "Might I see you?"
The tall Rilmani entered her office with a friendly smile, his bright eyes shining from within as he looked at her. "I was very close, in case you were wondering."
Sanria managed a smile. She talked to Fenlauch at length about Colin and the black makou within him. "We've not found a way to clear it from his blood without killing him, and the one hope I thought we might have had has..." Sanria glanced at Nioma and back to Fenlauch. "Well, he's been absent for a long time now. I'm suffocating beneath Colin's fears and his insecurities to the point I'm lying to him to get away. I can't deal with it anymore."
"It makes sense, but the lies?"
"I really don't want to go into detail, but they're horrible."
"I see."
"Please tell me there's something you or your people can do. Anything."
She held her breath as Fenlauch put a hand to his chin. He looked at Sanria for a long time, as though sizing her up from the inside. She couldn't help but feel that he was measuring her worth, making some type of calculation as to how much he could truly trust her. At long last he spoke. "I can escort him to our home plane. We have brilliant minds that could look at him and perhaps determine a solution."
"Your... home plane? You mean he'd have to leave here?"
"It would appear that given your story, it's the only hope he has."
"Yes, but I don't know that he'll do it. He's..." Sanria sighed deeply.
"I believe if he is told what is at stake, he will go willingly. It sounds as though he cares deeply for his family."
"Obsessively so."
"Then he will have no other option but to see his last resort."
Sanria appeared in the large cavern opening to her home with Fenlauch at her side. The Rilmani took a moment to look around, nodding to himself.
"Pretty."
"I think so," she replied, opening the front door to bring them both inside. She gave a small smile as Fenlauch attempted to duck and squeeze through the doorways. While he could stand perfectly well within the home, doorways were far from nine-foot tall entrances. "If you don't mind waiting until I call for you, I think it would go over better," Sanria said, leading Fenlauch to the library. "Of course."
Sanria walked into the bedroom where Colin lay on the bed, sweating and turning in his sleep. He jerked awake as Sanria shook him lightly. He seemed utterly exhausted - she knew he would be. He always was when the darkness used him. She felt horrible. This particular episode was her fault entirely, but she couldn't carry the guilt. She had reached her breaking point as well. She could no longer live with Colin as he was. Something had to give, and it did.
At her call, Fenlauch walked in and Sanria watched the light scowl form on Colin's face. The black makou was already driving him once more to anger -Colin blamed Fenlauch for her desire to heal Westbridge. And once more, tiringly so, she had to beg him to stop. Miraculously, Colin did quiet his anger.
Fenlauch hadn't been told anything about her plans for Westbridge, but he refrained from saying anything more. He told Colin that they might be able to help him, and at Sanria's urgings, Colin finally chose to go. It took only moments for Fenlauch to cast an unintelligible spell and vanish through the fabric of reality with Colin behind him.
Sanria sat for a long moment on the bed where Colin had just lain. She knew she might never see him again. Though she had tired completely of the smothering black makou, all the anger, the outbursts, the distrust of everyone, she still loved Colin. If he could come back to her, without the other piece that she had grown to loathe, there would be hope for them. Still, if he never came back, she would be alone. She looked to her lap and finally let herself cry.
The tall Rilmani entered her office with a friendly smile, his bright eyes shining from within as he looked at her. "I was very close, in case you were wondering."
Sanria managed a smile. She talked to Fenlauch at length about Colin and the black makou within him. "We've not found a way to clear it from his blood without killing him, and the one hope I thought we might have had has..." Sanria glanced at Nioma and back to Fenlauch. "Well, he's been absent for a long time now. I'm suffocating beneath Colin's fears and his insecurities to the point I'm lying to him to get away. I can't deal with it anymore."
"It makes sense, but the lies?"
"I really don't want to go into detail, but they're horrible."
"I see."
"Please tell me there's something you or your people can do. Anything."
She held her breath as Fenlauch put a hand to his chin. He looked at Sanria for a long time, as though sizing her up from the inside. She couldn't help but feel that he was measuring her worth, making some type of calculation as to how much he could truly trust her. At long last he spoke. "I can escort him to our home plane. We have brilliant minds that could look at him and perhaps determine a solution."
"Your... home plane? You mean he'd have to leave here?"
"It would appear that given your story, it's the only hope he has."
"Yes, but I don't know that he'll do it. He's..." Sanria sighed deeply.
"I believe if he is told what is at stake, he will go willingly. It sounds as though he cares deeply for his family."
"Obsessively so."
"Then he will have no other option but to see his last resort."
Sanria appeared in the large cavern opening to her home with Fenlauch at her side. The Rilmani took a moment to look around, nodding to himself.
"Pretty."
"I think so," she replied, opening the front door to bring them both inside. She gave a small smile as Fenlauch attempted to duck and squeeze through the doorways. While he could stand perfectly well within the home, doorways were far from nine-foot tall entrances. "If you don't mind waiting until I call for you, I think it would go over better," Sanria said, leading Fenlauch to the library. "Of course."
Sanria walked into the bedroom where Colin lay on the bed, sweating and turning in his sleep. He jerked awake as Sanria shook him lightly. He seemed utterly exhausted - she knew he would be. He always was when the darkness used him. She felt horrible. This particular episode was her fault entirely, but she couldn't carry the guilt. She had reached her breaking point as well. She could no longer live with Colin as he was. Something had to give, and it did.
At her call, Fenlauch walked in and Sanria watched the light scowl form on Colin's face. The black makou was already driving him once more to anger -Colin blamed Fenlauch for her desire to heal Westbridge. And once more, tiringly so, she had to beg him to stop. Miraculously, Colin did quiet his anger.
Fenlauch hadn't been told anything about her plans for Westbridge, but he refrained from saying anything more. He told Colin that they might be able to help him, and at Sanria's urgings, Colin finally chose to go. It took only moments for Fenlauch to cast an unintelligible spell and vanish through the fabric of reality with Colin behind him.
Sanria sat for a long moment on the bed where Colin had just lain. She knew she might never see him again. Though she had tired completely of the smothering black makou, all the anger, the outbursts, the distrust of everyone, she still loved Colin. If he could come back to her, without the other piece that she had grown to loathe, there would be hope for them. Still, if he never came back, she would be alone. She looked to her lap and finally let herself cry.
Delivered Parchments
*A rolled parchment appears in the air before you and settles into your hand. It unseals itself and opens to the words within.*
Kineada and Vorcet,
There are a few issues I need to discuss with both of you and given our schedules, I feel a missive will be best for preliminaries. As you are both aware, Westbridge has been under Vectorian occupation for some time. Though TriPower had once geared up for an assault on the backward government, with Throm's demise and the seeming retreat of their armies, it has once again been left to the citizenry to fight for themselves. It is no surprise that the oppressed have grown accustomed to their treatment, too afraid to make a bid for their freedom, as Vector's punishments are brutal and swift.
I feel it is left to those of us who aid in keeping balance to restore Westbridge back to what it should be - an open hub for all, a diverse city where many races can freely travel, and many governments and clans as well.
It falls to us, then, to begin a crusade to squash the occupation, but I must have the agreement of both of you before we begin seeking out others who will readily aid us. This in itself will be difficult, as where I see numbers, other clans see affiliations and may not readily work side by side to garner support and free Westbridge. However, this is a secondary issue to the primary. Do we feel the obligation strongly enough to embroil our clan with the political mixings of Vector?
My vote, of course, is an unequivocal yes. It is important, people need help... I feel it is time to bring about balance for Westbridge once more.
Sanria
Kineada and Vorcet,
There are a few issues I need to discuss with both of you and given our schedules, I feel a missive will be best for preliminaries. As you are both aware, Westbridge has been under Vectorian occupation for some time. Though TriPower had once geared up for an assault on the backward government, with Throm's demise and the seeming retreat of their armies, it has once again been left to the citizenry to fight for themselves. It is no surprise that the oppressed have grown accustomed to their treatment, too afraid to make a bid for their freedom, as Vector's punishments are brutal and swift.
I feel it is left to those of us who aid in keeping balance to restore Westbridge back to what it should be - an open hub for all, a diverse city where many races can freely travel, and many governments and clans as well.
It falls to us, then, to begin a crusade to squash the occupation, but I must have the agreement of both of you before we begin seeking out others who will readily aid us. This in itself will be difficult, as where I see numbers, other clans see affiliations and may not readily work side by side to garner support and free Westbridge. However, this is a secondary issue to the primary. Do we feel the obligation strongly enough to embroil our clan with the political mixings of Vector?
My vote, of course, is an unequivocal yes. It is important, people need help... I feel it is time to bring about balance for Westbridge once more.
Sanria
Thunder Crash
Sanria tried to focus on the letter on her desk. She clenched the pen in her hand and pressed hard, her hair continually needing to be pushed back as she wrote. She had gone home and talked to Colin about what her plans were only to be met with a desperate plea for her to stay out of political affairs. "Send someone else! There has to be someone else!" Colin had growled. He was angry at the Keepers, as though they somehow had put her up to the plot. He was just angry. Sanria knew that the black makou in him was at fault, but it had gotten increasingly difficult to do the job she had signed up to do while Colin wanted her closer and closer to him. It was stifling. When she told Colin she had terminated her most recent... mistake... she watched him do everything short of tear down the cavern. Nioma now sat in Sanria's office, laying on her back, playing in quiet contentment with her magical toys. Safe from the rampage back home.
The truth was, Sanria hadn't done anything yet. She hadn't done anything but try to push Colin away, push him to the brink, make him want to leave her side. She'd acted on nothing. She shook her head. It was no one's business what was going on with her body. No one needed to know, not yet. There were reasons, she knew, for Colin's desperation. A singular one, more than the others, that lay cooing to herself on the floor. A child that he didn't make yet was raising. Sanria shook her head again and pulled in her focus.
"Kineada and Vorcet, There are a few issues I need to discuss with both of you and given our schedules, I feel a missive will be best for the preliminaries."
Sanria paused again. Her throat closed up, her eyes burned. The last thing she needed was anyone doubting her capacity to lead and make decisions. She clenched her teeth, forcing every emotion that roiled within her to the back of her mind.There was business to take care of now that would get her every attention.
The truth was, Sanria hadn't done anything yet. She hadn't done anything but try to push Colin away, push him to the brink, make him want to leave her side. She'd acted on nothing. She shook her head. It was no one's business what was going on with her body. No one needed to know, not yet. There were reasons, she knew, for Colin's desperation. A singular one, more than the others, that lay cooing to herself on the floor. A child that he didn't make yet was raising. Sanria shook her head again and pulled in her focus.
"Kineada and Vorcet, There are a few issues I need to discuss with both of you and given our schedules, I feel a missive will be best for the preliminaries."
Sanria paused again. Her throat closed up, her eyes burned. The last thing she needed was anyone doubting her capacity to lead and make decisions. She clenched her teeth, forcing every emotion that roiled within her to the back of her mind.There was business to take care of now that would get her every attention.
Discussions
The clanning of Kronk and Orn was complete as Sanria sank behind her desk. She was happy to have her son among the ranks, happy to have Kronk finally given a home, but her concerns had nearly immediately turned to Ror again.
It had been some time since she'd spoken to the elf, a fact which didn't bother Sanria by any stretch. The less she had to speak to him, the better. It meant she wouldn't have to dredge up Throm again. But when they had spoken about Westbridge, her mind turned. She had been content to remain out of the fight, but lately her comfortability had begun to wane. Her answer was not sufficient. Knowing people were suffering still under the oppression of Vector, that she was content to sit back and do nothing, it sat heavily on her mind.
She breached the topic with Kineada, who was eager to hear the outcome of her conversation with Enmach - when she had it. But his question as to how they would manage such a feat strummed in Sanria's ears as she waited for her Argenach counsellor. In a flash of silver, Enmach appeared and bowed deeply. "You called, Lady Sanria?"
"Enmach, thank you so much for coming."
"Of course. What is it you wished to speak about with me?"
"Westbridge."
"The settlement to our east?"
"The same. It is overrun by Vector. TriPower had once deigned to clean up the city - had mounted forces to free the people of the tyranny there, but-"
"It has not come to pass. I am aware. And what would you determine to do?"
"I'm not certain, but... I do not believe it is a balancing force to have a government bent on oppression in power over such a diverse city."
"I would incline to agree, but are you speaking war?"
"No... not war. Just, an end to the tribulations."
Sanria watched as Enmach bowed her head, her fingers steepled at her lips. "This will require far more hands than what you have amassed, and this particular fight would be yours alone - the Rilmani could not step in to give aid."
"Why?"
"For the same reason we brought you here in the first place, Lady Sanria. Your Keepers are to help us maintain the mortal side. The... ah..."
"The fights too small for you to concern yourselves with," Sanria said pointedly, watching as Enmach merely bowed her head. "I see. But I don't even know where to begin."
"I suggest you call a meeting of your fellow leaders. Determine their mindset on the issue. Beyond that, you will need help, and lots of it. The potential for bringing disaster on yourselves is great."
"Nice to know you're honest. By the way... Sir Kineada sends his regards." Sanria chuckled inwardly as Enmach's face scrunched slightly.
"No. My answer still stands. I have no interest in his bedchambers."
"Suit yourself," Sanria shrugged. "Just know that he is quite tenacious."
Enmach scoffed and shook her head. In a flash she was gone, leaving Sanria to stare at her desk with a deep sigh. The time for doing nothing was gone, a comfort she could no longer afford. She would gather Kineada and Vorcet and determine their next course of action. It could no longer wait.
It had been some time since she'd spoken to the elf, a fact which didn't bother Sanria by any stretch. The less she had to speak to him, the better. It meant she wouldn't have to dredge up Throm again. But when they had spoken about Westbridge, her mind turned. She had been content to remain out of the fight, but lately her comfortability had begun to wane. Her answer was not sufficient. Knowing people were suffering still under the oppression of Vector, that she was content to sit back and do nothing, it sat heavily on her mind.
She breached the topic with Kineada, who was eager to hear the outcome of her conversation with Enmach - when she had it. But his question as to how they would manage such a feat strummed in Sanria's ears as she waited for her Argenach counsellor. In a flash of silver, Enmach appeared and bowed deeply. "You called, Lady Sanria?"
"Enmach, thank you so much for coming."
"Of course. What is it you wished to speak about with me?"
"Westbridge."
"The settlement to our east?"
"The same. It is overrun by Vector. TriPower had once deigned to clean up the city - had mounted forces to free the people of the tyranny there, but-"
"It has not come to pass. I am aware. And what would you determine to do?"
"I'm not certain, but... I do not believe it is a balancing force to have a government bent on oppression in power over such a diverse city."
"I would incline to agree, but are you speaking war?"
"No... not war. Just, an end to the tribulations."
Sanria watched as Enmach bowed her head, her fingers steepled at her lips. "This will require far more hands than what you have amassed, and this particular fight would be yours alone - the Rilmani could not step in to give aid."
"Why?"
"For the same reason we brought you here in the first place, Lady Sanria. Your Keepers are to help us maintain the mortal side. The... ah..."
"The fights too small for you to concern yourselves with," Sanria said pointedly, watching as Enmach merely bowed her head. "I see. But I don't even know where to begin."
"I suggest you call a meeting of your fellow leaders. Determine their mindset on the issue. Beyond that, you will need help, and lots of it. The potential for bringing disaster on yourselves is great."
"Nice to know you're honest. By the way... Sir Kineada sends his regards." Sanria chuckled inwardly as Enmach's face scrunched slightly.
"No. My answer still stands. I have no interest in his bedchambers."
"Suit yourself," Sanria shrugged. "Just know that he is quite tenacious."
Enmach scoffed and shook her head. In a flash she was gone, leaving Sanria to stare at her desk with a deep sigh. The time for doing nothing was gone, a comfort she could no longer afford. She would gather Kineada and Vorcet and determine their next course of action. It could no longer wait.
Journey to The Island
*feeling vibration on the floor*
*feeling vibration on the floor*
Demosthenes realized that something is not right, he started to get up from his evening nap to check what he felt something since he has his disadvantage of not being able to hear. He has raised his awareness what was surround him.
He noticed something moving outside of window by mantle. Begans to walk over to investigate something that he had a glimpse what he saw through the window. Indeed, it was Vorcet, I invited him in and wondering why he showed up unexpected but brushed it off as Demosthenes was glad to see him since it has been a while and, also in hoping that Vorcet would explain what he is doing here.
"Sorry for showing up unannounced", said Vorcet. "No, no need to apologize, it is always good to see you, my old friend...what brings you in the town?"
"I have a news to tell you about our discovery, this woman, name Sanria who discovered something and we happened saw each other and she shared this to me and this person name Kineada" said Vorcet.
Demosthenes seems a bit dazed, "What is it? What are you talking about?"
"It is about balance that we both have looked for so long time", Vorcet took his time to breath, "I know its such a short notice, but if you please come with me to Hoan Dor forest and I will explain more on the way." Vorcet smiled, "You will be in for surprised. this is what we both have always hoped for."
Demosthenes paused, "Now, this is very short notice but I am willing to go with you." Demosthenes got everything packed up while wondering what he is in for. Both were ready to leave out the door and start the journey to our hope begins.
After a long journey, both has arrived at Hoan Dor Forest but Demosthenes noticed something that the light is a little off. Vorcet nudged Demosthenes and pointed upward, and Demosthenes looked up and his eyes widen and was in astonishment. Demosthenes said, "Is that a land mass floating up in the sky?"
"Indeed", nodded Vorcet, "We are here now, we have to go up there". Vorcet utters the words, 'yrl' as he casted on Demosthenes and his feet has begin to rise.
"Now, lets fly toward the 'floating island' as they called it for now", Vorcet grinned, "you'll meet two people that we were in this together"
Both flew off the ground toward to the island and landed on the island, and it opened Demosthenes's eyes and realized how beautiful the view was at the edge of the island. They begin to walk through the island.
Their journey has come to the end soon. Demosthenes cant help but wonder what he is in for as Vorcet mentioned that there are hopes for us.
"Look Demosthenes, they need you, and I think you would be a great fit for Keepers of Balance that I have been telling you about" said Vorcet. "You need to meet Sanria and Kineada and when you see them, tell them that I sent for you, and remember what I said all the details about the Keepers of Balance. It is a perfect opportunity for you that we both had hoped for" as Vorcet tried to encourage Demosthenes. Vorcet pointed at the path toward to the Castle, "this is where you will find your opportunity to be one of us."
Demosthenes nodded in agreement, "I will meet them and I hope this will be a good future for us" Demosthenes walked toward the path that points to the Castle.....
*feeling vibration on the floor*
Demosthenes realized that something is not right, he started to get up from his evening nap to check what he felt something since he has his disadvantage of not being able to hear. He has raised his awareness what was surround him.
He noticed something moving outside of window by mantle. Begans to walk over to investigate something that he had a glimpse what he saw through the window. Indeed, it was Vorcet, I invited him in and wondering why he showed up unexpected but brushed it off as Demosthenes was glad to see him since it has been a while and, also in hoping that Vorcet would explain what he is doing here.
"Sorry for showing up unannounced", said Vorcet. "No, no need to apologize, it is always good to see you, my old friend...what brings you in the town?"
"I have a news to tell you about our discovery, this woman, name Sanria who discovered something and we happened saw each other and she shared this to me and this person name Kineada" said Vorcet.
Demosthenes seems a bit dazed, "What is it? What are you talking about?"
"It is about balance that we both have looked for so long time", Vorcet took his time to breath, "I know its such a short notice, but if you please come with me to Hoan Dor forest and I will explain more on the way." Vorcet smiled, "You will be in for surprised. this is what we both have always hoped for."
Demosthenes paused, "Now, this is very short notice but I am willing to go with you." Demosthenes got everything packed up while wondering what he is in for. Both were ready to leave out the door and start the journey to our hope begins.
After a long journey, both has arrived at Hoan Dor Forest but Demosthenes noticed something that the light is a little off. Vorcet nudged Demosthenes and pointed upward, and Demosthenes looked up and his eyes widen and was in astonishment. Demosthenes said, "Is that a land mass floating up in the sky?"
"Indeed", nodded Vorcet, "We are here now, we have to go up there". Vorcet utters the words, 'yrl' as he casted on Demosthenes and his feet has begin to rise.
"Now, lets fly toward the 'floating island' as they called it for now", Vorcet grinned, "you'll meet two people that we were in this together"
Both flew off the ground toward to the island and landed on the island, and it opened Demosthenes's eyes and realized how beautiful the view was at the edge of the island. They begin to walk through the island.
Their journey has come to the end soon. Demosthenes cant help but wonder what he is in for as Vorcet mentioned that there are hopes for us.
"Look Demosthenes, they need you, and I think you would be a great fit for Keepers of Balance that I have been telling you about" said Vorcet. "You need to meet Sanria and Kineada and when you see them, tell them that I sent for you, and remember what I said all the details about the Keepers of Balance. It is a perfect opportunity for you that we both had hoped for" as Vorcet tried to encourage Demosthenes. Vorcet pointed at the path toward to the Castle, "this is where you will find your opportunity to be one of us."
Demosthenes nodded in agreement, "I will meet them and I hope this will be a good future for us" Demosthenes walked toward the path that points to the Castle.....
An Announcement, Of Sorts
With a grunt, Kineada wrenched his katana free of the corpse it had just laid to rest. Wrinkling his nose, he looked about for something to wipe the bloody remains of the foul creature just slain from the blade.
Powerful magicks had been consumed in order to accomplish killing the beast Tchazzar and her guardians, not to mention the foul Tielmon before that, but by his estimation it was an expenditure of energies well worth it. Besides, if...no...WHEN the Gods returned, he was fairly certain he could sweet-talk Sune into replacing some of the trinkets whose magic he had used up in order to defeat these creatures on his own. It was also the last time he intended to use magic as a crutch...it was time to re-develop his swordsman skills, hence, his desire to form the Order of the Sword within the larger scope of the Keepers of Balance.
After casting a dweomer on the giant corpses to preserve them, Kineada started rummaging through his bag for the various spell components he would need to teleport them all to his destination.
"We need to announce our presence," Sanria had said to him, or some wording to that affect. Of course, with all the work she and Vorcet were doing to prepare the Keeper's Hall, it fell upon Kineada to figure out some sort of suitable 'announcement' for the denizens of the Realms that the Keepers of Balance were now accepting into their fold beings of a like mind.
"Well, if this doesn't get their attention," Kineada muttered to himself, "I have no idea what will..."
Market Square was soon to have a few more inhabitants, albiet lifeless ones, courtesy of the Keepers of Balance.
Powerful magicks had been consumed in order to accomplish killing the beast Tchazzar and her guardians, not to mention the foul Tielmon before that, but by his estimation it was an expenditure of energies well worth it. Besides, if...no...WHEN the Gods returned, he was fairly certain he could sweet-talk Sune into replacing some of the trinkets whose magic he had used up in order to defeat these creatures on his own. It was also the last time he intended to use magic as a crutch...it was time to re-develop his swordsman skills, hence, his desire to form the Order of the Sword within the larger scope of the Keepers of Balance.
After casting a dweomer on the giant corpses to preserve them, Kineada started rummaging through his bag for the various spell components he would need to teleport them all to his destination.
"We need to announce our presence," Sanria had said to him, or some wording to that affect. Of course, with all the work she and Vorcet were doing to prepare the Keeper's Hall, it fell upon Kineada to figure out some sort of suitable 'announcement' for the denizens of the Realms that the Keepers of Balance were now accepting into their fold beings of a like mind.
"Well, if this doesn't get their attention," Kineada muttered to himself, "I have no idea what will..."
Market Square was soon to have a few more inhabitants, albiet lifeless ones, courtesy of the Keepers of Balance.
All Things Considered
The six beings reconvened in the large meeting room and sat at the table. Fenlauch seated himself at the head of the table and looked from Sanria, to Vorcet, to Kineada. "So, do you three feel you could aid us in our task?"
Sanria smiled broadly. To her, it was the beginning of a new mode of living, a new beginning that she could not have anticipated being placed before her. "Of course," she replied. Kineada leaned back in his seat with a smirk, his hands folded loosely over his lap. "I suppose a new adventure is in order." Vorcet gave a nod, reminiscent of a solder. "I admit I am beyond intrigued, and what you have shown me may very well help me understand even more of this realm."
"Then it is settled," Fenlauch replied with a nod. "Now, we will entrust the three of you to set to rights the imbalances within the realms. You will do it not for power, not for fame, but for the assurance that balance is the way to ensure a measure of peace and knowledge and, above all, truth. You'll need a name. Something for those of your realm to know you by."
Sanria looked toward the table in thought while Kineada merely shrugged, "Names aren't quite as important to me," he replied.
"I'm not certain what we should consider ourselves," said Sanria.
Vorcet leaned forward, his face concentrated, his gaze focused. "I believe we should call ourselves the Keepers of Balance."
"Simplicity I can appreciate," Kineada said with a nod.
"As can I," replied Fenlauch with a smile.
Sanria nodded as Fenlauch rose from the table. He looked at each of them. "Go forth and gather your fellow keepers. Let us stabilize this period of time, and every day into the future."
Sanria's eyes welled and her heart filled with pride. She finally had a new place to call home, and a way to bring others to a peace she had no doubt she would soon find.
Sanria smiled broadly. To her, it was the beginning of a new mode of living, a new beginning that she could not have anticipated being placed before her. "Of course," she replied. Kineada leaned back in his seat with a smirk, his hands folded loosely over his lap. "I suppose a new adventure is in order." Vorcet gave a nod, reminiscent of a solder. "I admit I am beyond intrigued, and what you have shown me may very well help me understand even more of this realm."
"Then it is settled," Fenlauch replied with a nod. "Now, we will entrust the three of you to set to rights the imbalances within the realms. You will do it not for power, not for fame, but for the assurance that balance is the way to ensure a measure of peace and knowledge and, above all, truth. You'll need a name. Something for those of your realm to know you by."
Sanria looked toward the table in thought while Kineada merely shrugged, "Names aren't quite as important to me," he replied.
"I'm not certain what we should consider ourselves," said Sanria.
Vorcet leaned forward, his face concentrated, his gaze focused. "I believe we should call ourselves the Keepers of Balance."
"Simplicity I can appreciate," Kineada said with a nod.
"As can I," replied Fenlauch with a smile.
Sanria nodded as Fenlauch rose from the table. He looked at each of them. "Go forth and gather your fellow keepers. Let us stabilize this period of time, and every day into the future."
Sanria's eyes welled and her heart filled with pride. She finally had a new place to call home, and a way to bring others to a peace she had no doubt she would soon find.
Of Demigods & Dirty Old Men
"Sir...Kineada...my eyes, they are up here..." Enmach said in a peeved tone.
"Hmmm? Oh yes, yes, you have lovely eyes my dear..." Kineada replied, pretending to be distracted by Enmach's not-entirely-unpleasing figure, and ample bosom.
In reality, he was trying to take in as much of his surroundings as he could. Kineada had learned long ago that when being given a guided tour of a place, it was quite often the things that were NOT pointed out were of the most interest.
As it was, his chance encounter with Sanria was proving to lead to quite the adventure indeed. He had travelled the Realms far and wide, yet never heard of nor encountered any beings such as these 'Rilmani', and he was quite curious to learn what he could of them. He just preferred that such learning be on his own terms...
"If we could carry on, there is much still we'd like you to see," Enmach said, the tone of her voice beginning to take a slight exasperated edge.
"Indeed, indeed...feel free...I shall be looking at your behin...err..I mean, I shall be right behind you," Kineada deadpanned, sweeping his arm out and the rest of him presenting her a low bow.
"Yes, well, as you can see over here we have..." Enmach began speaking again as Kineada nodded his head and did his best to appear attentive to her words. Kin couldn't shake the feeling that life, his especially, was about to get a lot more interesting.
"Hmmm? Oh yes, yes, you have lovely eyes my dear..." Kineada replied, pretending to be distracted by Enmach's not-entirely-unpleasing figure, and ample bosom.
In reality, he was trying to take in as much of his surroundings as he could. Kineada had learned long ago that when being given a guided tour of a place, it was quite often the things that were NOT pointed out were of the most interest.
As it was, his chance encounter with Sanria was proving to lead to quite the adventure indeed. He had travelled the Realms far and wide, yet never heard of nor encountered any beings such as these 'Rilmani', and he was quite curious to learn what he could of them. He just preferred that such learning be on his own terms...
"If we could carry on, there is much still we'd like you to see," Enmach said, the tone of her voice beginning to take a slight exasperated edge.
"Indeed, indeed...feel free...I shall be looking at your behin...err..I mean, I shall be right behind you," Kineada deadpanned, sweeping his arm out and the rest of him presenting her a low bow.
"Yes, well, as you can see over here we have..." Enmach began speaking again as Kineada nodded his head and did his best to appear attentive to her words. Kin couldn't shake the feeling that life, his especially, was about to get a lot more interesting.
Among the Gardens
Sanria walked alongside Fenlauch in awe of the castle he showed her, finally, when he took her outside, he escorted her to a small hill and offered a view of the realms that took her breath away. "We're - on a floating piece of land?"
"A floating island," Fenlauch said, striding to her side. "Yes."
"Incredible," Sanria whispered. "How did it, I mean, how does it-"
"A mix of technology and magic. A balance." He smiled. "So, tell me of your meditations. Have they revealed new insights?"
Sanria leaned against the railing that hung out over the realms below. She furrowed her brow and let out a long sigh. "Well, I realize I haven't ever had balance in my life. I thought I did, but never had it. I've hoped for it, but never actually tried for it."
"Never?"
"No. What I thought would bring peace in my life was the opposite of what I should have been doing to bring it," Sanria said. She looked over at Fenlauch, who now stared at her with bright eyes. "Much of what you said makes sense."
"I've had a long time to dwell on it," Fenlauch replied with a chuckle.
"I suppose so."
Sanria let out a deep sigh and looked back over the realms. "Do you think it's possible to bring about balance? Truly?"
"It has been done in many other places. It takes courage, resolve, fortitude - but balance can absolutely be attained and maintained."
"I find that such an appealing prospect. It's... almost unreal."
"When balance is maintained, it is a good feeling. The knowledge that comes with it is tremendous, as well as the freedom that springs from it. Some might wish to see evil abolished, just as evil wishes good dismantled - but one without the other-"
"Cannot exist," Sanria finished with a smile.
"So it is," Fenlauch said with a nod.
Sanria looked up at the huge man. "You would really let us use this place to help in bringing about balance? To bring others here?"
"Indeed. Though my advisors were initially against the prospect when I discussed it with them, they came to my point of view when Garlech agreed. They also agreed knowing they would be your advisors as well. Having a hand in the making of a balanced material plane appealed to them."
"I hope Vorcet and Kineada see it that way."
"An interesting group, nearly a perfection in balance. You with an open heart, willing to learn and read to grow, one who fairly brims over with magical ability, and one who keeps his heart deep within and guards it with his blades. You did well in bringing them. I think each of you has something genuine."
"I don't truly know how it happened so fast..."
"I've been around long enough to know that nothing happens by chance. When you think thoughts, as the unseen forces of the magnet, what you desire comes to you. Call it the law of attraction, Gods, ether, but it will be as it is willed."
Sanria stared out over the realms for a long moment, looking at Westbridge far in the distance. Perhaps what she needed to do was stop dwelling on what she didn't want in her life. Perhaps she simply needed to shift her mind and start to dream once and for all. "Happiness," she whispered, and though said so low it was barely audible, Sanria felt the universe shift just a little bit.
"A floating island," Fenlauch said, striding to her side. "Yes."
"Incredible," Sanria whispered. "How did it, I mean, how does it-"
"A mix of technology and magic. A balance." He smiled. "So, tell me of your meditations. Have they revealed new insights?"
Sanria leaned against the railing that hung out over the realms below. She furrowed her brow and let out a long sigh. "Well, I realize I haven't ever had balance in my life. I thought I did, but never had it. I've hoped for it, but never actually tried for it."
"Never?"
"No. What I thought would bring peace in my life was the opposite of what I should have been doing to bring it," Sanria said. She looked over at Fenlauch, who now stared at her with bright eyes. "Much of what you said makes sense."
"I've had a long time to dwell on it," Fenlauch replied with a chuckle.
"I suppose so."
Sanria let out a deep sigh and looked back over the realms. "Do you think it's possible to bring about balance? Truly?"
"It has been done in many other places. It takes courage, resolve, fortitude - but balance can absolutely be attained and maintained."
"I find that such an appealing prospect. It's... almost unreal."
"When balance is maintained, it is a good feeling. The knowledge that comes with it is tremendous, as well as the freedom that springs from it. Some might wish to see evil abolished, just as evil wishes good dismantled - but one without the other-"
"Cannot exist," Sanria finished with a smile.
"So it is," Fenlauch said with a nod.
Sanria looked up at the huge man. "You would really let us use this place to help in bringing about balance? To bring others here?"
"Indeed. Though my advisors were initially against the prospect when I discussed it with them, they came to my point of view when Garlech agreed. They also agreed knowing they would be your advisors as well. Having a hand in the making of a balanced material plane appealed to them."
"I hope Vorcet and Kineada see it that way."
"An interesting group, nearly a perfection in balance. You with an open heart, willing to learn and read to grow, one who fairly brims over with magical ability, and one who keeps his heart deep within and guards it with his blades. You did well in bringing them. I think each of you has something genuine."
"I don't truly know how it happened so fast..."
"I've been around long enough to know that nothing happens by chance. When you think thoughts, as the unseen forces of the magnet, what you desire comes to you. Call it the law of attraction, Gods, ether, but it will be as it is willed."
Sanria stared out over the realms for a long moment, looking at Westbridge far in the distance. Perhaps what she needed to do was stop dwelling on what she didn't want in her life. Perhaps she simply needed to shift her mind and start to dream once and for all. "Happiness," she whispered, and though said so low it was barely audible, Sanria felt the universe shift just a little bit.
Discussions and Decisions
Fenlauch seated himself at the head of the table, Garlech at his side. "You have done well, Sanria," he began in a rich baritone. "Now, I suppose for the sake of your assembled company, I should begin by telling you who we are?"
Sanria looked across the table at Kineada, who seeming busy contemplating Fenlauch. Vorcet, by contrast, seemed to patiently wait for the introductory speech. She looked back and nodded. "Please."
"We are Rilmani, from the outer planes. We've been in this place, your material plane, for a very long time. Ever since the fall of Myth Drannor and the rapid appearance of demonic forces there."
"You mentioned that before," Sanria said. "Why?"
Fenlauch looked at her with a patient smile. "Balance. With an influx of evil, we had to come in order to keep watch and ensure that their forces could not gain a foothold and tip things out of order. We've noticed, however, other troubles since the Gods have gone missing, and it is this new threat that causes us to counsel with you."
"You've been here a long while," Kineada said. "You've never sought anyone out in all that time?"
"No," Garlech said. His voice matched Fenlauch's, but his demeanor was much more businesslike. "We had no reason to interfere as there was not enough of an imbalance to reveal ourselves."
"I've been concerned with the void left by the Gods as well," Vorcet said.
"Indeed," Fenlauch continued, "there are troubles that concern us. Extremes, if you will, that aren't exact opposites, but are not in balance and harmony. We prefer not to make appearances if we can help it, but I'm afraid our time for anonymity is at an end. Unless you are willing to help our cause?"
Kineada sat back and Sanria frowned. It was a pitch. "What cause?" Vorcet asked.
"You are all here because you seek balance, correct?"
"Yes," Sanria answered.
"We will teach you how to gain that balance, provided you take that knowledge to others in the realms in the hopes of evening out the growing polarities. We will aid you by lending you our castle, our advisors, and even our libraries." Both Sanria and Vorcet seemed to perk at the mention of books. "We do not wish to be the driving force to the point we reveal ourselves fully. But if lead by their own kind, I cannot fail to see how the material plane and its citizenry would respond."
Sanria looked across the table. To learn to balance her own life, to spread that ideal to everyone, what an incredible world it could be. Something she'd chased, being right here, offered to her, it was too much to pass up. "It would require each of you to make a commitment," Fenlauch replied.
"Certainly," Sanria chimed without hesitation. Her heard fluttering with excitement.
"I'd like to ask my own questions, if you don't mind," Kineada said.
"Yes... I also have a few of my own," Vorcet said.
Fenlauch smiled and nodded. "I assumed you might. Why not ask as you take in the castle. Garlech, could you take our guest, Vorcet and walk with him? You," Fenlauch said, looking at Kineada apprasingly, "Seem to respond best to those of the fairer persuasion. Do you not?"
Kineada's face relaxed a bit as he gave a chuckle. "You see through me."
"Enmach," Fenlauch called, and in an instant, the beautiful silver-skinned woman was at the side of the golden man. "Take Sir..."
"Kineada," the WuJen replied, a smile on his features.
"Kineada on a tour of the castle. Answer any questions he might have."
"As you wish," she said with a bow of her head.
"And Lady Sanria, you will come with me and tell me of your meditations."
Sanria looked across the table at Kineada, who seeming busy contemplating Fenlauch. Vorcet, by contrast, seemed to patiently wait for the introductory speech. She looked back and nodded. "Please."
"We are Rilmani, from the outer planes. We've been in this place, your material plane, for a very long time. Ever since the fall of Myth Drannor and the rapid appearance of demonic forces there."
"You mentioned that before," Sanria said. "Why?"
Fenlauch looked at her with a patient smile. "Balance. With an influx of evil, we had to come in order to keep watch and ensure that their forces could not gain a foothold and tip things out of order. We've noticed, however, other troubles since the Gods have gone missing, and it is this new threat that causes us to counsel with you."
"You've been here a long while," Kineada said. "You've never sought anyone out in all that time?"
"No," Garlech said. His voice matched Fenlauch's, but his demeanor was much more businesslike. "We had no reason to interfere as there was not enough of an imbalance to reveal ourselves."
"I've been concerned with the void left by the Gods as well," Vorcet said.
"Indeed," Fenlauch continued, "there are troubles that concern us. Extremes, if you will, that aren't exact opposites, but are not in balance and harmony. We prefer not to make appearances if we can help it, but I'm afraid our time for anonymity is at an end. Unless you are willing to help our cause?"
Kineada sat back and Sanria frowned. It was a pitch. "What cause?" Vorcet asked.
"You are all here because you seek balance, correct?"
"Yes," Sanria answered.
"We will teach you how to gain that balance, provided you take that knowledge to others in the realms in the hopes of evening out the growing polarities. We will aid you by lending you our castle, our advisors, and even our libraries." Both Sanria and Vorcet seemed to perk at the mention of books. "We do not wish to be the driving force to the point we reveal ourselves fully. But if lead by their own kind, I cannot fail to see how the material plane and its citizenry would respond."
Sanria looked across the table. To learn to balance her own life, to spread that ideal to everyone, what an incredible world it could be. Something she'd chased, being right here, offered to her, it was too much to pass up. "It would require each of you to make a commitment," Fenlauch replied.
"Certainly," Sanria chimed without hesitation. Her heard fluttering with excitement.
"I'd like to ask my own questions, if you don't mind," Kineada said.
"Yes... I also have a few of my own," Vorcet said.
Fenlauch smiled and nodded. "I assumed you might. Why not ask as you take in the castle. Garlech, could you take our guest, Vorcet and walk with him? You," Fenlauch said, looking at Kineada apprasingly, "Seem to respond best to those of the fairer persuasion. Do you not?"
Kineada's face relaxed a bit as he gave a chuckle. "You see through me."
"Enmach," Fenlauch called, and in an instant, the beautiful silver-skinned woman was at the side of the golden man. "Take Sir..."
"Kineada," the WuJen replied, a smile on his features.
"Kineada on a tour of the castle. Answer any questions he might have."
"As you wish," she said with a bow of her head.
"And Lady Sanria, you will come with me and tell me of your meditations."
Meetings in the Mists
Sanria walked with her two companions westward and back into the deeper Haon' Dor. The travel was rather quiet, punctuated more with bird calls and squirrel chatter than amiable conversation. It suited Sanria well enough, her preference was silence in the wood, allowing nature to create its own symphony without her input. There was always enough talking when one visited the city or had company.
They had walked in silence until the large, marked trees greeted them. "It's just up ahead," she offered and rounded a few large oaks. There, the tails of mists slithered along the ground and she stopped to point it out. "We'll go in there and I'm certain he'll be along."
"Interesting," Kineada offered, his face otherwise unreadable.
"He lives in the mists?" Vorcet questioned.
"No, not exactly. He finds you in the mists... he lives... somewhere else."
Sanria walked ahead, going deeper into the mists, breathing them in. They had the distinct scent of lake water, but there wasn't such a place to be found, nor a source for their rise. She could feel the two men behind her, walking closer so as not to lose her in the deepening blanket of fog. "Hello?" she called out and no sooner than she called, the mists parted, revealing a man who was not Fenlauch, but looked nearly identical, save the blinding white light that shot from his eyes.
"You must be lost, traveler. I will send you on your way once more -"
"Wait," called the familiar voice of Fenlauch. "Garlech, these are my guests."
Sanria smiled and turned to see the faces of both Kineada and Vorcet rather frozen with what she could only assume to be awe and confusion. She turned back to Fenlauch and gave a bow. "I did as you asked. I brought others to learn."
"Now, wait," Kineada said in a low voice, "I never said I would go to learn, just to meet this man."
"Just... trust me, please," Sanria said.
"Vorcet Thopen, at your service," Vorcet said, approaching Fenlauch with a bow.
"Fenlauch, and my colleague, Garlech," both the huge golden men bowed, their impressive golden armor clinking. "Shall we?"
"Shall we..." Sanria began uncertainly.
Fenlauch chuckled and waved a hand. In an instant, they were in a beautiful meeting room, a fireplace burning at the end of the table. Globes of fire drifted on the air, not unlike Sanria's home, and tall windows gave a stunning view to beautiful gardens beyond. Fenlauch held a hand out to the chairs.
"Please. Be seated."
They had walked in silence until the large, marked trees greeted them. "It's just up ahead," she offered and rounded a few large oaks. There, the tails of mists slithered along the ground and she stopped to point it out. "We'll go in there and I'm certain he'll be along."
"Interesting," Kineada offered, his face otherwise unreadable.
"He lives in the mists?" Vorcet questioned.
"No, not exactly. He finds you in the mists... he lives... somewhere else."
Sanria walked ahead, going deeper into the mists, breathing them in. They had the distinct scent of lake water, but there wasn't such a place to be found, nor a source for their rise. She could feel the two men behind her, walking closer so as not to lose her in the deepening blanket of fog. "Hello?" she called out and no sooner than she called, the mists parted, revealing a man who was not Fenlauch, but looked nearly identical, save the blinding white light that shot from his eyes.
"You must be lost, traveler. I will send you on your way once more -"
"Wait," called the familiar voice of Fenlauch. "Garlech, these are my guests."
Sanria smiled and turned to see the faces of both Kineada and Vorcet rather frozen with what she could only assume to be awe and confusion. She turned back to Fenlauch and gave a bow. "I did as you asked. I brought others to learn."
"Now, wait," Kineada said in a low voice, "I never said I would go to learn, just to meet this man."
"Just... trust me, please," Sanria said.
"Vorcet Thopen, at your service," Vorcet said, approaching Fenlauch with a bow.
"Fenlauch, and my colleague, Garlech," both the huge golden men bowed, their impressive golden armor clinking. "Shall we?"
"Shall we..." Sanria began uncertainly.
Fenlauch chuckled and waved a hand. In an instant, they were in a beautiful meeting room, a fireplace burning at the end of the table. Globes of fire drifted on the air, not unlike Sanria's home, and tall windows gave a stunning view to beautiful gardens beyond. Fenlauch held a hand out to the chairs.
"Please. Be seated."
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