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This page provides a simple browsing interface for finding entities described by a property and a named value. Other available search interfaces include the page property search, and the ask query builder.

List of results

• Hana Grayhope  + (Hana's mother was a member of a trading gr …
  Hana's mother was a member of a trading group that made a great loop through the cities of the realm, in an ongoing nomadic caravan. The girl spent her early life traveling, seeing goods from around the world, and speaking to many varied people. Perhaps that's why she became tired of traveling early on. Some people dream of seeing the world, but Hana's already seen it; her dreams are of waking in the same place for more than two or three days in a row, of getting to know one's neighbors. To know a city not as a tourist, but a resident. Still, if traveling gave her anything, it was an appreciation for many different styles of crafting. Bows from two different cities would have distinct looks. Blades from one city had stylistic elements that another lacked. To someone who knows the language of weaponsmithing, everything has a story to tell in the line of the blade, the shape of the crossguard, even the chips and dents of use. And a crafter can use that same language to tell a story. Now Hana's come to Arx, seeking to hone her crafting talents and perhaps make a comfortable life for herself. And maybe even meet the father she's never really known: a man named Aureth Grayhope.
  really known: a man named Aureth Grayhope.)
• Yvon Baseborn  + (Handsome, courageous, honorable, polite, r …
  Handsome, courageous, honorable, polite, righteous; as a young (obscure, provincial) Valardin prince, Yvon learned his lessons well. And when he swore his Knighthood Oaths, he felt them as a calling: defend the gods; act with courtesy and honor, fairness and kindness; keep your word sacred, show valor in combat. For years, as a knight, he fought the Abandoned fiercely, and he fought them well. Then he fell. He was taken hostage, beaten savagely. After the first agonized, feverish months, he thinks he was moved to another camp, or sold to another group ... he doesn't know who spent years torturing him. He escaped, he was recaptured, and his toes slowly removed. He doesn't know if he was tormented for fun, for revenge, or in terrible abyssal rites, but he knows this: they broke him, until almost no trace of the previous Yvon remained. And finally--for no reason that he knows--he was freed. He spent years recovering, as much as possible. Reading, arguing, and hewing to a worship of the Thirteenth that alienated his family, whose pity curdled to disgust. He refused to stop; he was denobled. No longer Valardin, no longer prince. So he came to Arx, a new man. Reborn as 'Baseborn,' broken by the knowledge of his weakness. Maybe he'll learn a few things.
  weakness. Maybe he'll learn a few things.)
• Haramus Walrington  + (Haramus has been the chief minister of the …
  Haramus has been the chief minister of the palace for as long as any can remember. Presumably he was once a young man when serving Alaric IV's grandfather, but if he was ever less than an officious, supercilious, and obnoxious pedant, no one has shared any memory of those times. While a nuisance to nearly all who know him, he has an encylopedic knowledge of the minutiae of palace protocol, which he mistakes for importance.
  rotocol, which he mistakes for importance.)
• Hardwicke Morgan  + (Hardwicke has been a Sanctum guardsman for …
  Hardwicke has been a Sanctum guardsman for almost as long as he could hold a weapon. It was his unwavering loyalty, family history of service, and strong sense of command that eventually earned him the position of Captain of the Guard at Sanctum. It was a visit to Farhaven as part of a Valardin contingent that first brought him into a chance meeting with a dorky Northern baker named Symanthe. She was the one to start sending letters down to Sanctum after he returned (addressed quite seriously with openings like "Dear cutie butt" and "Dear serious face") and, since his duty belonged to Sanctum and hers belonged to wherever she chose to put it, she was the one to pick up her life and relocate after deciding she was going to keep him. That he managed to land such a beautiful, vibrant sort of bride was the source of much consternation to his colleagues. Their contrasting personalities proved to be a good complementary balance for both of them. They had their first child when Hardwicke was 22 and Symanthe 20, and they had another six before she declared quite firmly that she was done now that she had a brood large enough to harass her unsociable husband for the rest of his life. Their marriage has not been without strife, but it's several decades later with all their children (mostly) grown and they haven't quit yet.
  (mostly) grown and they haven't quit yet.)
• Harper Grayhope  + (Harper Ashdown was born among the denizens …
  Harper Ashdown was born among the denizens of the Lower Boroughs, before being relinquished to the Tragedy upon the untimely deaths of her parents at the behest of a serial killer. She grew up close to the most impoverished in Arx and witnessed their oppression, their suffering, and their helplessness. Someone needed to stand up and protect them, and that someone would be Harper. She made sense of the chaotic, disorderly world she grew up in by formulating her own code of ethics and behavior. It was almost knight-like, if it wasn't obvious she distrusted knights. After teaching herself how to wield a blade by befriending a retired soldier and convincing him to adopt her, she decided to join the weakened Iron Guard after the betrayal of their former Lord Commander, sensing her chance to change it for the better and protect the city she loves.
  the better and protect the city she loves.)
• Harper Ashdown  + (Harper was born among the denizens of the …
  Harper was born among the denizens of the Lower Boroughs, before being relinquished to the Tragedy upon the untimely deaths of her parents at the behest of a serial killer. She grew up close to the most impoverished in Arx and witnessed their oppression, their suffering, and their helplessness. Someone needed to stand up and protect them, and that someone would be Harper. She made sense of the chaotic, disorderly world she grew up in by formulating her own code of ethics and behavior. It was almost knight-like, if it wasn't obvious she distrusted knights. After teaching herself how to wield a blade by befriending a retired soldier and convincing him to adopt her, she decided to join the weakened Iron Guard after the betrayal of their former Lord Commander, sensing her chance to change it for the better and protect the city she loves.
  the better and protect the city she loves.)
• Perianithill Crown  + (Has since childhood done and seen many different things never being content with what he was doing, so the only way to constantly experience new things is to travel from place to place in pursuit of different experiences.)
• Haven Leary  + (Haven loved music, ever since she was a yo …
  Haven loved music, ever since she was a young child. She loved to sing as well as play instruments, though she rather enjoyed the latter much more. Her mother got her into books, however, wanting her to get a scholarly education as well as a musical one. She always told Haven stories about when she was young, for she was previously of a common house, and wanted her children to always remember to be thankful for what they had. As a result, Haven has always had great manners, which partially came from the noble side, of which her father gently and patiently taught her. She does, however, respect those of lower status to her, and believes that yes, they may be lower in class, but not in rights of their humanity. She is the second eldest of four, and loved to help her parents care for her younger siblings. She is now beginning to make a life for herself and be on her own for the first time, but she keeps in contact with her family quite frequently.
  contact with her family quite frequently.)
• Archibald Kitt  + (Having been a successful teacher serving t …
  Having been a successful teacher serving the King's Own, Archibald's early life was pleasant. He served well and even earned a parcel of land to call his own. During what had been a successful retirement, his land was raided. Though he fought to stop the raiders, he was left for dead and all of his family slaughtered. Permanently lame in his leg, he went to request aid from the crown, but it was determined resources could not be spared and he was given a token gift to assist him in his hardship. Crippled, alone, and feeling betrayed, he has lived the rest of his existance in the lower boroughs teaching riff-raff instead of soldiers.
  hs teaching riff-raff instead of soldiers.)
• Terris Deepwood  + (Having been born to the Tehoa peoples of D …
  Having been born to the Tehoa peoples of Deepwood forest, Terris lost his tribe when he was 7 years old. The Greenwood tribe, led by Thesarin, raided the much smaller nomadic tribe at the break of spring of that year. He was saved only because his hound puppy, Nico, had fled from the cave where his tribe was wintering, and Terris had gone to chase him. By the time the young lad returned, the Greenwoods were just finishing with their looting, and slaying the last of the women. Terris saw this from a distance, and watched as the war party's leader urinated on the fire at the entrance of the cave. A face that faded from his mind's eye, as the years passed, but never from his memory. Those years were spent in the forests, largely. Tehoa peoples were taught young how to survive in the wilds. As he grew larger, he would send Nico to distract someone at a stream, washing clothes, then sneak down and steal whatever he could grab and run away with. He would hunt mostly by way of snares, still, or with Nico's help, sometimes using a length of stick with a fire hardened tip as a spear. This was just enough to stay alive. Eventually, Terris' thefts were noticed, but given his young age and wild nature, the tribes of Deepwood that he would steal from became more curious than angry. Why was a lone boy of such young age by himself in the forests? And so, one of these tribes intentionally left a bag of clothing, near where they did their wash. Also in the bag was some dried foods, as well as a small obsidian knife. The knife was a treasured tool for the youth, now into his early teens. He came back in the spring of the next year, and there was another bag. More clothes. More food. The year after when Terris went to the spot, he left several uncured pelts of winter rabbits, fur white as snow, as thanks. This sort of trade happened for several more years, until the spring of Terris' 16th year. He came to the spot and there was the bag, and sitting in front of a camp fire, a man. Terris cautiously approached the man, who didn't stand, but just smiled and turned the spit containing a pair of pheasants. Terris was invited to eat, and then questioned by the man. When his benefactor offered Terris a place in his tribe, the Othalas, Terris initially refused. The man understood, and asked if the boy would like to learn to hunt with a bow. Man and boy spent the spring doing just that. Terris took quickly to the weapon, and his ability to hunt increased many fold. The following spring, he had not only hare pelts, but a pair of white wolves, and fox furs, and even a badger. Again the man made the offer for Terris to join his tribe, and Terris refused, though he did accept a fine overcloak made from the hide of a bear, that had belonged to the man himself. The third year, Terris' 18th, he finally accepted the offer to come and meet the tribe, but initially made no agreement to join. It seemed almost a sign when, resting peacefully with his head upon Terris' lap, Nico passed away. As if the hound was able to go beyond, believing Terris would be taken care of. Terris was touched when the Othalas shared his grief, and, tentatively, joined the tribe. So skilled was Terris with the bow, and at hunting, that he began teaching the children of the Othalas. He knew many tricks that the tribe, more reliant upon the bow for their hunting, did not know. 4 peaceful years passed for Terris, who grew into manhood, accepted fully by the Othalas. Then, when Terris was 22, living in the Deepwoods with his new people, Tolmar Brand besieged Arx. The Othalas were one of many Shav'arvani to take the knee. Terris was against the move, but these people were his family, and so he joined them. One of the Rangers of the Deepwoods saw Terris' skill with the bow, and enlisted him, explaining that he could protect his people against Tolmar Brand's forces by using his skills to hunt men, instead of game. After the siege ended, the Rangers of Deepwood were like another family to Terris. One that he needn't see very often, but found comraderie with, sharing the occasional campfire in the woods. And it is in this capacity that Terris was sent to Arx. A messenger for the Rangers. Despite his independent nature, he learned to follow orders, and so when Marquessa Samantha asked for one of the better archers of the Rangers be sent to teach new recruits in Arx, Terris was given the dubious honor.
  n Arx, Terris was given the dubious honor.)
• Glenn Took  + (Having been one of many children of a weal …
  Having been one of many children of a wealthy merchant family with connections he was sent off at a young age to page for a local knight. Even for a young boy he was clumsy, slow and weak. He was taught by his mother how to read and write and had a great interest in books however at the age of 16 he had become a squire, to the shock of many and undoubtedly due to his family's local influence. That same year his mentor died and since then Glenn served a new Knight every few months, traveling from fiefdom to fiefdom in hope that he one day might become a Knight himself, growing distance from his own family and surviving of the ever dwindling financial support he receives from them.
  g financial support he receives from them.)
• Lyria none  + (Having never met her father, Lyria travele …
  Having never met her father, Lyria traveled with her mother since she was little picking up crafting lessons, a little bit from every trade. Whenever she asked who her father was her mother just shook her head, unwilling or maybe unable to answer. Practicing all kind of crafts, she couldn't keep everything she created so because she didn't want to throw them away she gave them to people in need, clothes to small children, keeping for herself only a few. When she turned 19, her mother died because she was too sick and the fever overpowered her. After grieving, Lyria knew that she had to find her family. Or if not her family, then a place of her own. A place where she could live, not be dragged all around by someone. A place she could call home, with friends who wouldn't be lost when she was forced to leave. Because she was alone she ended up selling most of the things she owned so she wouldn't catch the attention of thieves. Selling small things she crafted to people for food or money, she promised herself that her story was just beginning.
  herself that her story was just beginning.)
• Jophiel Bisland  + (Having spent many of his formative years a …
  Having spent many of his formative years as a ward of House Melaeris, Jophiel's passions as an adult remain forever colored by the experiences and perspectives gained from his father's birthplace of Astarrea. Much of his professional reputation as a talented mediator and secular counselor centers around his work with former thralls and those members of the peerage responsible for helping to free them. Never one to pass up an opportunity to foster new friendships, Jophiel remains famously slow to alienate or condemn those still economically reliant on the practice. In fact, marriage contract negotiations with a princess of House Thrax and the Bisland lord were in talks for some time. The arrangement might have been a great success had the relevant Voices not proved unable to reach a happy compromise. In the wake of the Battle of Pridehall, Jophiel set aside his longstanding humanitarian efforts in Thrax fealty territories to return to the Crownlands. His work there soon shifted towards assisting those suffering from wartime bereavement and battle fatigue. It remains his focus to this day.
  fatigue. It remains his focus to this day.)
• Grady Deepwood  + (He doesn't talk too much about his past - …
  He doesn't talk too much about his past - what he does mention is how hard he worked to learn the trappings of diplomacy. Always he has been the peacemaker - between his siblings (the middle child is always caught in between), because his parents (they fought with each other frequently), between his friends (children are terrible to each other). He was always sick as a child too, though as time passed he finally grew out of that for the most part. Happiest were his moments in the woods, when he could be alone. He would take books and read there, but of course his family's library was not extensive. So he found himself reading even the driest and dustiest treatises on politics, diplomacy, and history - and finding he had a propensity for it. Avidly he read and re-read, and started using some of the theories espoused in dry and dusty tomes to start settling those fights, and found he was good at not just understanding these theories but using them as well. And so he began his life as a diplomat, building a reputation for a level head and a genial nature that encouraged communication and compromise. Then he met the woman who would become his wife - she was in the woods too one day, tilting at trees to practice her swordwork. And as the poet said, 'No sooner met but they looked; no sooner looked but they loved; no sooner loved but they sighed; no sooner sighed but they asked one another the reason; no sooner knew the reason but they sought the remedy; and in these degrees have they made a pair of stairs to marriage.' So it was that when his wife determined she would come to Arx and rejoin her family by heritage, so too did he as her faithful companion.
  , so too did he as her faithful companion.)
• Joxur Deepwood  + (He grew up far from Arx, one of many in a …
  He grew up far from Arx, one of many in a large family. But of all of them he knew what he wanted from an early age. Of course, it's fairly easy to become the best swordsman in a town with no swordsmen, so he traveled early. Gone more often than not in search of training, Joxur saw enough of the world around him to get a pretty good idea of what he wanted to do and be. And then he went home - and instead of finding his family waiting for him, he learned that his two favorite sisters had left for Arx. One of them with a husband in tow that he'd never even met! So he set his sights on Arx and headed out once more - sword by his side, dubious armor worn and ready, to seek greatness among the denizens of Arx.
  seek greatness among the denizens of Arx.)
• Tulasam Waters  + (He grew up poor in a traveling mummers tro …
  He grew up poor in a traveling mummers troupe with the talent of song that he was forced to learn by his mother. Dragged from town to town, he would sing and dance for the wealthy slowly learning to hate this from the depth of his soul. As he grow up watching them never struggle or have to wonder where the next meal was coming from he took up the fine art of theft. Over time his skilled hands got him into trouble and his mother took the brunt of him crime and disowned by the group at the tender age of 15 and with nothing to do now but leave to work on his own. He made a quick name on his own performing for the courts till a Thrax lord picked him up for ownership as his personal jester. But that only lasted for 3 years now he is seeking in this name a land patron.
  he is seeking in this name a land patron.)
• Achard de Ange  + (He is a poor country boy taken in by a poo …
  He is a poor country boy taken in by a poor country knight, Sir Reggie de Ange of Sanctum, after the boy's family was killed by forest bandits. Growing strong and healthy, a quick study, he eventually was accepted as a squire to Sir Reggie. He grew into his 20's as a man-at-arms under the knight, patrolling the forest roads north of Artshell. One day, against bandits, Sir Reggie was unhorsed and the younger man fought over his knight's stunned body, finally killing three bandits while wearing only leather armor and wielding a club. Reggie advocated for the boy and Achard was knighted. Present day, the young man is 33 and has been a knight for maybe eight years, gradually gaining a reputation as a skilled and strategically clever warrior.
  skilled and strategically clever warrior.)
• Jareth Crown  + (He was born on the streets of Arx to a lig …
  He was born on the streets of Arx to a light-skirted woman who couldn't claim to know the identity of Jareth's father. At a young age he joined with the other children on his street into a loosely formed gang, picking and scratching for scraps to supplement what little they were provided with at home, but it was evident early on he lacked the brawn to roll drunks in alleys, or the deftness to separate heavy purses from expensive belts. Jareth's strengths lay in his confidence and his ability to charm those around him and to convincingly embrace whatever role was required of him. He was a fast-talker, a patter man with a silver tongue and the ability to blind the eyes of his audience to the streaks of dirt on his face and the shabbiness of his clothes. His ability to talk his way out of (and into) trouble didn't go unnoticed, however. He fell in with the Black Rose Mummers, putting his natural charm and talent for acting to use for himself and the troupe, though it is clear he supplements his income as an actor through any means his silver tongue allows.
  hrough any means his silver tongue allows.)
• Jareth  + (He was born on the streets of Arx to a lig …
  He was born on the streets of Arx to a light-skirted woman who couldn't claim to know the identity of Jareth's father. At a young age he joined with the other children on his street into a loosely formed gang, picking and scratching for scraps to supplement what little they were provided with at home, but it was evident early on he lacked the brawn to roll drunks in alleys, or the deftness to separate heavy purses from expensive belts. Jareth's strengths lay in his confidence and his ability to charm those around him and to convincingly embrace whatever role was required of him. He was a fast-talker, a patter man with a silver tongue and the ability to blind the eyes of his audience to the streaks of dirt on his face and the shabbiness of his clothes. His ability to talk his way out of (and into) trouble didn't go unnoticed, however. He fell in with the Black Rose Mummers, putting his natural charm and talent for acting to use for himself and the troupe, though it is clear he supplements his income as an actor through any means his silver tongue allows.
  hrough any means his silver tongue allows.)
• Jareth Masque  + (He was born on the streets of Arx to a lig …
  He was born on the streets of Arx to a light-skirted woman who couldn't claim to know the identity of Jareth's father. At a young age he joined with the other children on his street into a loosely formed gang, picking and scratching for scraps to supplement what little they were provided with at home, but it was evident early on he lacked the brawn to roll drunks in alleys, or the deftness to separate heavy purses from expensive belts. Jareth's strengths lay in his confidence and his ability to charm those around him and to convincingly embrace whatever role was required of him. He was a fast-talker, a patter man with a silver tongue and the ability to blind the eyes of his audience to the streaks of dirt on his face and the shabbiness of his clothes. His ability to talk his way out of (and into) trouble didn't go unnoticed, however. He fell in with the Black Rose Mummers, putting his natural charm and talent for acting to use for himself and the troupe, though it is clear he supplements his income as an actor through any means his silver tongue allows.
  hrough any means his silver tongue allows.)
• Kyler Keaton  + (He was often the odd child out, growing up …
  He was often the odd child out, growing up. The Keatons by and large being a rather rough and tumble, outdoorsy lot, Kyler did not fit in amongst the other Keaton children. So he made friends with the adults, learning how to smile, how to bat his lashes and win over the ladies with his outlandish ways. Soon enough he never lacked for company, entertaining guests more than twice his age, impressing them with his precocious charm, even as he amused them with his effortless wit. Among his favorite pursuits, aside from entertaining, is match making. There is something very powerful in uniting two hearts; for a night or a life time, Kyler has a gift for finding even the most unusual or unexpected pairings that bring delight to the paired. Well. Most of the time. One of his most popular skills is his stunning ability to arrange the perfect bouquets. Having mastered the language of flowers and the subsequent subtlty in messaging that goes with that at a very young age, Kyler still enjoys sending messages through gorgeous arrangements of flowers and plants. One of the rare outdoor activities he has shown a proclivity for is hunting. Not for food of course, how crass. He hunts with falcons. Because hunting should be left for the birds, why should he get blood on his clothes? Kyler is more than happy to stay on his horse and let his falcons do all the messy work. As soon as he came of age he lit out of Oakhaven for Arx, eager to embrace the culture, the parties and people to be found in the Compact's greatest cosmopolitan center.
  he Compact's greatest cosmopolitan center.)
• Gerry Taken  + (He's a shady trader, the kind who doesn't …
  He's a shady trader, the kind who doesn't ask where the goods come from. From some of his scars and his stance, he knows how to handle himself in a tough spot. He arrived in Arx not long ago, less than a year, and has made his business mostly in the Lower Boroughs. With hm he brought his daughter, Catryn, for whom he has a real protective eye. Already a few wandering hands have resulted in quiet retaliation in a back alley until the word's spread that he doesn't take kindly to showing her disrespect.
  n't take kindly to showing her disrespect.)
• Mahan  + (He's always had a knack for telling stories and tales, with his expressive nature and ability to exaggerate. Raised mostly by his grandmother, the duty of family has always been of the utmost importance.)
• Conrad Drayton  + (He's seen the worst war can offer. A forme …
  He's seen the worst war can offer. A former Grayson soldier from an unremarkable village in the Gray Forest, Conrad and dozens of his friends were conscripted in the war to pacify the Reavers in the Gray Forest during those campaigns. He knew it was coming at least, and enlisted the help of a veteran from previous campaigns to teach him the basics, while his friends simply laughed at him for taking 'shavs' so seriously. In the end, most of those friends only survived the year long campaign because they stuck with him and learned to keep up with proper formation work in the infantry lines after their first real combat. When Conrad went home from there, the village just... wasn't the same. His friends went back to hunting and farming. His family expected him to do the same, but Conrad had gotten a solid taste of the power of a sword, and wanted to earn a much better living doing that, as he'd heard from the soldiers that mercenaries get paid very well if they're good enough. Having heard in passing about the Crimson Blades, Conrad went to Arx to sign up. His time among the Grayson armies had already given him an edge in experience, so when the time for promotions came around, Conrad was an easy pick. He's served as an officer in the Crimson Blades for a while, now.
  er in the Crimson Blades for a while, now.)
• Vittorio Gilden  + (He's the oldest son, but not set to inheri …
  He's the oldest son, but not set to inherit anything unless several other members of his family die prematurely, and he's hoping that never actually happens. He's more than content, happy even, to be left to his own devices, to make himself useful to the family, but not have to be in charge of anything but numbers and silver amounts. Vittorio's father was fairly typical for the family, loyal, steadfast, good with a sword, kind but blunt. However, Vittorio is entirely different than that, and seems to take more after their mother. He's kind, of course, but there's a sharpness to that kindness, the slick sort of sell you a bridge across those two islands over there aura that surrounds him. Even when he was a kid he was always hustling for something, working hard at that extra piece of cake, or the prized possession of one of the other kids...if he wanted it, he'd find a way to convince them that it was best served being given to him. As the oldest of several kids, he always looked out for his siblings, made certain that they were well taken care of. As he's gotten older he's turned his attention towards various charities, speaking loudly and proudly of his devotion to Gild, and the pantheon, the family and how it behooves everyone to help each other in darker times. Recently he's decided to head towards Arx to put his skills to use for the family there.
  ut his skills to use for the family there.)

• Rafael Bisland  + (Healer to the Crownlands elite, Rafael's r …
  Healer to the Crownlands elite, Rafael's reputation for quality care often precedes him. Unfortunately, so does knowledge of his great lacking when it comes to matters paternal. A noblewoman and warrior of rank, Rafael's wife bravely fell during the Battle of Pridehall and left him to see to the upbringing of their young children. This mostly translated into governesses, various tutors of repute, and the affection of family members better equipped than he, creating the type of cavernous distance that Rafael still works to mend now that they begin to reach adulthood. While serving in his capacity as a Mercy, Rafael was accompanying an incapacitated nobleman along the newly minted Great Road to Arx when their traveling party was attacked. Made overly confident by the vocal dissents of House Grayreeve at the time, assailants surrounded them and their protectors. There was a scuffle before the assailants fled, leaving Rafael with injuries of his own that saw any return to Pridehall delayed. By Rafael's own account, he made the terrible mistake of appearing at all useful during his stay and was consequently asked to remain in Arx by House Bisland's leadership.
  main in Arx by House Bisland's leadership.)
• Helena Redrain  + (Helena had a happy childhood, because her …
  Helena had a happy childhood, because her sister already paved the way for her. They had already gone and done things their own way, so by that time, her family was amenable for Helena to find her own path. She's tried to follow in Agatha's footsteps once. Stole her practice sword and managed to mow down a large section of hedges and topiary, taking the head off of a rather interesting rendering of an elephant. After a few more nicks and cuts, she gave it up for a while - deciding that her training can come later when she's ready. Then she followed in Elgana's footsteps. Literally. She trailed after her sister like a baby duckling and begged and pleaded for her to pay attention and play tea party with her. Elgana would spend hours sitting with her sister, and they had some tea parties that could be in books and fairy tales. Handsome frog Prince's, talking pigs and probably even a few benevolent emperors attended these teas. The middle sister doted on her little sister, and it was Elgana who helped her sister find her passion. That passion was books. They were her first true love (besides her family), and to this day her most persistent. She devoured books like they were food, and could be found hiding in a tree, nestled in between some stones, tucked in a nook in the house, or even hiding in the kitchen eating an apple as she was reading. When her sisters went to Arx, she remained behind, but after a few months of solitude she couldn't stand it anymore and followed them there. Time to be a pest again.
  lowed them there. Time to be a pest again.)
• Helewise Redreef  + (Helewise Redreef was the eldest daughter o …
  Helewise Redreef was the eldest daughter of a small family in the Isles whose lands could be best described as "bleak." Her purpose in life was to be a perfect individual match in order to further these parlous fortunes, but there was a falling out, for Helewise chose other than her father when future Baroness Ember rose her way to challenge the laws of tradition. Helewise had little to offer save a sharp mind and a willingness to work, but she took to murdering people in heavy armor like a duck to water or a Lycene to treachery, and was rewarded in the fallout of everything. She did not confront her father on the field of battle: but then, not everything makes a neat little story.
  not everything makes a neat little story.)
• Helia Redtyde  + (Helia was born of Victor and Cibale Andras …
  Helia was born of Victor and Cibale Andrasko, both favoured servants of House RedTyde, who served faithfully up to the death of their House, standing proud with their Lord when the Thrax came to lay waste. Helia herself was pulled from the burning rubble of her home by Fredrik RedTyde, who then fled with her in turn to exile, so very small and growing up with no memories of that horrible night of fire and death. She was raised by Fredrik RedTyde, who treated her as a daughter in truth, even if not in name, living with him on his ship as he plied the waters of the Compact. Never taking truly to her father's teachings on economics and business, she instead grew to love the feel of the waves, the roughness of the sailors they sailed with, and the life-or-death play of swords. Her father may have worried, but she grew into the role of a swashbuckling, outspoken woman with aplomb, even if it meant a flash of steel (or, more often, with her father having to soothe feelings with words or coin). Following him since she was old enough to make the choice, she has only known of Fredrik's true status for a short time, and was shocked to learn that her father was, in fact, a Lord of some stature. Once she grappled with that secret, she kept it well, and was understandably infuriated when he went to Arx without her, claiming he would 'send for her when it was safe'. But Helia doesn't /want/ to wait and just run freight or sit in Tyde hall (as an honored guest). She wants to be where the pulse of civilisation throbs; where rings glitter on the fingers of the silks, and steel flashes in the hands of quick-witted scoundrels; where the booze runs freely, and so does the silver. What could be better than that?
  he silver. What could be better than that?)
• Hella Redtyde  + (Hella was born of Victor and Cibale Andras …
  Hella was born of Victor and Cibale Andrasko, both favoured servants of House RedTyde, who served faithfully up to the death of their House, standing proud with their Lord when the Thrax came to lay waste. Hella herself was pulled from the burning rubble of her home by Fredrik RedTyde, who then fled with her in turn to exile, so very small and growing up with no memories of that horrible night of fire and death. She was raised by Fredrik RedTyde, who treated her as a daughter in truth, even if not in name, living with him on his ship as he plied the waters of the Compact. Never taking truly to her father's teachings on economics and business, she instead grew to love the feel of the waves, the roughness of the sailors they sailed with, and the life-or-death play of swords. Her father may have worried, but she grew into the role of a swashbuckling, outspoken woman with aplomb, even if it meant a flash of steel (or, more often, with her father having to soothe feelings with words or coin). Following him since she was old enough to make the choice, she has only known of Fredrik's true status for a short time, and was shocked to learn that her father was, in fact, a Lord of some stature. Once she grappled with that secret, she kept it well, and was understandably infuriated when he went to Arx without her, claiming he would 'send for her when it was safe'. But Hella doesn't /want/ to wait and just run freight or sit in Tyde hall (as an honored guest). She wants to be where the pulse of civilisation throbs; where rings glitter on the fingers of the silks, and steel flashes in the hands of quick-witted scoundrels; where the booze runs freely, and so does the silver. What could be better than that?
  he silver. What could be better than that?)
• Tila Sanna  + (Her childhood spent under the close watch …
  Her childhood spent under the close watch of her family, Tila found surcease from scrutiny with her studies. It wasn't that the nobles of Giant's Reach were expected to put that much store by propriety, but growing up under a regency as the younger child, there was potential for her to be used as a pawn in any number of games, and it was much better for her to be sitting quietly in the cavernous halls of Giant's Reach, studying, reading, and learning many old songs and stories of the spirits. The shaman who was her most frequent teacher was also one of the driving forces of her childhood, an old woman who passed away when she was still young, but not so young that she did not treasure her lessons for the rest of her life. As her older brother became the March in truth, Tila had only a few close, quiet friendships to treasure, and the rest of her time was dedicated to her work. She mistrusted his loud nature and his boisterous pride, and knew -- even in her teens -- that he would need a steadier hand to focus him and prevent disaster. She was a passionate student and a fierce truthspeaker, and when she was only 20, she became the Voice of Giant's Reach. Her career and competence grew over time and now, five years later, she is both the Voice of the March and one of the premier lawyers and promising young writers in the North.
  and promising young writers in the North.)
• Dora Malvici  + (Her father was Darko Blackram and mother w …
  Her father was Darko Blackram and mother was one Wendy Malvici. A second cousin among a sea of cousins. She was raised going between Southport and the Cloudspine, her parents intent on exposing her to both of her heritage. When she was two the Southport-Tor war broke out and they were on their first trip to the Cloudspine. It was a lucky thing for the family and they managed to avoid some of the upset. During time spent in Cloudspine they were free to lavish attention on the girl. Being far from home, everyone went out of their way to make her happy. Perhaps that was a bad idea. From a young age she was always wandering off. It terrified her parents and they did their best to have her under careful watch. After all, they had tried so very hard and struggled to have her. But it became a game to escape and run off on the governesses and nurses tasked with her. As she grew older she grew bored with just running off. The thrill less. And so she got into other trouble. Mostly pulling pranks on anyone who wasn't careful, or filling her little treasure chest with stolen knick knacks. When they returned to Southport in 995 they hoped that, perhaps, the militant training would work. If anything it only made her rebel worse. Oh she took to the lessons, and was skilled as any Malvici might be expected to be, but she made it clear this was not what she wanted to do. And so she wouldn't, except when she did. It led to many headaches and pains for her parents. It was only when a group of explorers came through, hosted by her parents, that some hope of reining in the wild child came. They stayed for a month and promises of tales are all that got her going to the academy regularly. Yet it wasn't what he parents hoped. At 13 she stowed away on the explorers ship and managed to hide for nearly a month. There was no turning back, only apologies to be made. True to her stubborn nature it took wile and three years before the crew were able to get her back to Southport. And her rather infuriated parents. But she was unrepentant, even bearing a tattoo hiden beneath her clothes, and all around behaving little like the lady they had hoped. It drove a huge gap between herself and her parents. During her travels she had picked up a fascination for alchemy, specifically in its use for body inks. When she returned they put her under house arrest. It started a battle of wills that drove her mother to drinking and ended with Darko sending her off a few years late. It was a desperate attempt to temper her. In 07 she went to Caer Morien just after Artorius was made its Count. Little did they realize the delight Dora would find in the native people and their own traditions. Without meaning too she managed to learn something of their culture. In so doing she helped to bridge some of the gaps between House Magnotta and the prodigals. Too bad she got bored again...
  prodigals. Too bad she got bored again...)
• Aconite Fidante  + (Her father was a Eurusi warlord wannabe wh …
  Her father was a Eurusi warlord wannabe who decided to harass a Fidante trade vessel. Then he hounded it. Then, with men, he boarded it during the night and took it captive for ransom. Fidante's response was to find out who this man is, hunt down his family, take his daughter, and offer HER as ransom for the ship. The story gets muddled but, some say he cracked immedietly. Others, that he denied her existence and caused the deployment of some secret strike force. Others still, that he yielded, but upon seeing how Eurusi are treated by other Eurusi, the Fidante in charge did not let her go, sent a strike force to destroy the enemy, and decided to keep her as one of their own. To do her a kindness.
  as one of their own. To do her a kindness.)
• Aconite Unknown  + (Her father was a Eurusi warlord wannabe wh …
  Her father was a Eurusi warlord wannabe who decided to harass a Fidante trade vessel. Then he hounded it. Then, with men, he boarded it during the night and took it captive for ransom. Fidante's response was to find out who this man is, hunt down his family, take his daughter, and offer HER as ransom for the ship. The story gets muddled but, some say he cracked immedietly. Others, that he denied her existence and caused the deployment of some secret strike force. Others still, that he yielded, but upon seeing how Eurusi are treated by other Eurusi, the Fidante in charge did not let her go, sent a strike force to destroy the enemy, and decided to keep her as one of their own. To do her a kindness.
  as one of their own. To do her a kindness.)
• Jacali Crown  + (Her father was some high-up in the city gu …
  Her father was some high-up in the city guard here or there, the details are a bit muddy and typically left well out of the conversation. Her mother was a herbalist, some unwashed nobody that captured the heart of that crusty old city boy. None of the family got along. Her father wished for her to join the guard, or the army, find some sort of direction in life. Her mother wanted her to be a free spirit. Apparently they couldn't decide on the best course of action, so they sent her away, made her somebody else's problem. That somebody turned out to be an apothecary, one which made her his apprentice. Shucks, you know, she doesn't really know where he is now, but rumour has it he wasn't exactly the best guardian in the world. What's it matter, ey? She's here now, shop of her own, destined to be the very brightest of shining merchant stars! ... Don't believe it? Just watch.
  stars! ... Don't believe it? Just watch.)
• Jacali  + (Her father was some high-up in the city gu …
  Her father was some high-up in the city guard here or there, the details are a bit muddy and typically left well out of the conversation. Her mother was a herbalist, some unwashed nobody that captured the heart of that crusty old city boy. None of the family got along. Her father wished for her to join the guard, or the army, find some sort of direction in life. Her mother wanted her to be a free spirit. Apparently they couldn't decide on the best course of action, so they sent her away, made her somebody else's problem. That somebody turned out to be an apothecary, one which made her his apprentice. Shucks, you know, she doesn't really know where he is now, but rumour has it he wasn't exactly the best guardian in the world. What's it matter, ey? She's here now, shop of her own, destined to be the very brightest of shining merchant stars! ... Don't believe it? Just watch.
  stars! ... Don't believe it? Just watch.)
• Danielle Valardin  + (Her great grandfather was a part of the li …
  Her great grandfather was a part of the line of succession in the house, if only just. Technically, Edain is a distant great uncle, but she is closer related to Ectorion, in their respective distance from any sort of inheritance or succession, his mother Lyllindyl being her aunt. Her father died fighting the forces of Tolamar Brand. Her mother died during childbirth. She has half a dozen or so half brothers and sisters from her father's later marriage. She idolized the man, and took to learning a weapon from the time she was old enough to hold one, quick to emulate her childhood hero. Her own training only recently came to any sort of formal conclusion and then only because she was so anxious to be done with learning and get on to the doing! More than any other God, her dedication is to Limerance. Though she does love the idea of love, it is more because of the importance of oaths, the reliability and accountability meaning more than any romantic elements. Of late, with the Compact seemingly teetering on the edge of war, she's come to the Capital, with the hopes to find glory on the front lines of battle, even if it's the last thing she ever does.
  even if it's the last thing she ever does.)
• Calypso Malvici  + (Her mother Adona had a reputation as an ex …
  Her mother Adona had a reputation as an excellent judge of character. As Calypso grew up, she realized how well-suited she was for the military path the Duchess laid out before her. In the aftermath of the Tor-Southport War, she embraced the martial life that defined House Malvici and the city of Southport. She had always stood apart; her younger brother's enjoyment of politics saved her from a role she never wanted. Calypso was in field training by the age of twelve and commanding patrols by fifteen. She lived and breathed strategy, logistics, tactics, and leadership, but it was the time among soldiers in the field that she appreciated most. She grew to love them as much as she did her brothers. The inevitable deaths and losses among her troops led her to work them and herself harder. She was a highly-demanding commander, never settling for less than the best and scant with praise. Her success at bearing the same burdens as the common troops as her training prolonged their lives won her fierce loyalty from Southport's soldiers. When her mother abdicated in favor of her younger brother Hadrian, his first act was to make her the commanding general of House Malvici's armies. She wasn't yet twenty-five years old, but some said the promotion was overdue. With the tension in Arx, Calypso finds herself needed for her counsel and good judgment as much as commanding soldiers. Though she gratefully passed the responsibility of rule off to her young brother so she could follow her passion for martial mastery, she is still determined to help. She intends to make the most of her first diplomatic excursion outside the Lyceum, aiming to learn as much as she can about potential enemies, seek out allies among those who respect the pragmatic use of force, and set her tactical experience to work in the ballrooms and audience halls. After all, she reasons, diplomacy is war by other means.
  reasons, diplomacy is war by other means.)
• Sonnet  + (Her mother claims Sonnet fell off the back …
  Her mother claims Sonnet fell off the back of a turnip cart when she was a baby and the grocer was gone before the woman could give her back, so she raised little Sonnet to be a skilled assassin and sent her to murder the errant grocer as her first kill. It's probably true, too; Sonnet's mother believed heartily in the satisfaction of a long con.
  eartily in the satisfaction of a long con.)
• Sonnet Crown  + (Her mother claims Sonnet fell off the back …
  Her mother claims Sonnet fell off the back of a turnip cart when she was a baby and the grocer was gone before the woman could give her back, so she raised little Sonnet to be a skilled assassin and sent her to murder the errant grocer as her first kill. It's probably true, too; Sonnet's mother believed heartily in the satisfaction of a long con.
  eartily in the satisfaction of a long con.)
• Valery no family  + (Her mother was a beautiful woman, and her …
  Her mother was a beautiful woman, and her father was a jealous apothecary. Valery lived locked in the store most of her life, leaving just when the whole family would go out together. Once her mother died, this chances decreased terribly and she almost never was allowed to leave the house. She learnt all she knows about herbs, remedies, parfums and poisons by looking at her father work on his store. One day she just got fed up of the situation, stole her father's money and left the house, running away to never come back.
  he house, running away to never come back.)
• Valery Frost  + (Her mother was a beautiful woman, and her …
  Her mother was a beautiful woman, and her father was a jealous apothecary. Valery lived locked in the store most of her life, leaving just when the whole family would go out together. Once her mother died, her chances decreased terribly and she almost never was allowed to leave the house. She learned all she knows about herbs, remedies, perfumes and poisons by looking at her father work on his store. One day she just got fed up of the situation, stole her father's money and left the house, running away to never come back.
  he house, running away to never come back.)
• Emily Deepwood  + (Her mother's father was a Deepwood, first …
  Her mother's father was a Deepwood, first cousin to the main Deepwood lineage, who married into the Grayridge family two generations ago. The Grayridge holdings were so far from the seat of Deepwood that neither Emily nor her mother ever went on Deepwood lands, but even so she knows that's her heritage. "Be as serene as the deepest wood," her mother told her often, and she tried to take that to heart as she explored the woods in the Barony of Grayridge. But she always wanted to be more than the daughter of a minor noble, destined for obscurity and trying desperately to resign herself to that fact. And then Samantha Deepwood came to Arx and was recognized as a noble there - and Emily knew this was her moment. This was her moment to come to Arx and claim her ties with the Deepwood family. She could be something here, and she could be more important than a minor noble in the middle of nowhere, marrying and living her life without ever traveling, or adventuring, or seeing anything new. And so she came, and now she's here with a wanderlust and a curiosity about life and everything to do with Arx. She's ready to make her name as Lady Emily Deepwood. She's ready to take her place among the rangers of the Deepwood that Rymarr has so painstakingly trained. She's ready to stand against ancient threats and current enemies alike. She'll be brave, and bold, and forge right on in to this new place and family. And nothing's going to stand in her way.
  . And nothing's going to stand in her way.)
• Hickson Gales  + (Hickson was born in Darkwater Watch, the f …
  Hickson was born in Darkwater Watch, the first of five children. His father was a trader and a seaman, and his mother worked in the Darkwater household as a servant. When he was old enough, Hickson joined his father as a cabin boy aboard a trading vessel bound to Arx. It was attacked in route by pirates, but he was recovered by a ship flying the banners of House Seliki, and transported safely to his original destination. Once in Arx, he was delivered into the care of the representatives of House Darkwater. Hickson decided to remain in the city, and, after his experience on board the ship, he turned his attention to assisting the Iron Guard with criminal matters, and found himself well suited to information gathering. He has since dedicated himself to serving the Sentinel and the people of Arx.
  erving the Sentinel and the people of Arx.)
• Ilsa Innes  + (Hillward. A town in the Oathlands of littl …
  Hillward. A town in the Oathlands of little renown. But it was home. From the moment of Ilsa's birth, a place of hard work and graft, of joy and delight. A place of simple pleasures for simple folk. Folk who knew the wisdom of the woods and who gave thanks for the gifts they were given by the gods. Ilsa was born into a house of wise women, her own mother, having lost her husband soon after her daughter was born, lived with her sister's family, with her mother and aunts. A family of women tending to their own. From her youngest days, she trailed at the heels of these wise women, learning their ways, learning the secrets of herb and flower. The power of poultice and potion. The wisdom of speaking to the gods and to the spirits of the land. And when she came of age, she took her place as a wise woman herself, tending to the needs of the town and of the countryside. Knowing, always, that the day would come when she would find her way to the wider world, to places of greater renown and grander vistas. A place where she could ply her craft and hone her skills. And now, her chance has come. And Arx awaits.
  now, her chance has come. And Arx awaits.)
• Taldolf Ridge  + (His family came to the Marche almost the s …
  His family came to the Marche almost the same year it was formed and thus Taldolf has always had a legacy of involvement with House Sanna and some might think a tradition of honoured service through his family. Ever since a young age, due to him always being quite strong and agile, he was trained in a very militarized fashion. And as he grew older he was honed and refined for field combat. His commanding voice and composed nature as made him quite the asset in Giant's Reach. Now he is coming to the city to offer what aide he and his troops can give to the Marquis.
  he and his troops can give to the Marquis.)
• Jozef Blackram  + (His father is a noble man known for his sk …
  His father is a noble man known for his skill with forging blades, a skill he had to put aside once he became more known in the court, from Sanna in Redrain who married a Valardian lady from Blackram in the Oathland. When Jozef was born they moved south to Cloudspine, where he was raised, learning their customs and religion in favor of his father's. With a bright education from a university in Artshall under his belt, Jozef became a squire of Duke Edmund Laurent, serving under the man for many years, and eventually becoming a knight himself. Then his mentor died from illness and Jozef, stricken with grief, left Artshall and the Oathland to never be heard from again. He fled north where he took on his father's trade, as a blacksmith, and camouflaged as a courtier inside the Sanna court. During his time in the north, he met a Patheon missionary and the two came to be close friends. The priest helping him practice their religion. Jozef also learned about the stars from the priest. He became obsessed with the notion that stars could fall on Arvum, that he wanted to see one himself. So much, in fact, that he left home for a second time, this time though to chase falling stars. The wilderness was cruel but Jozef had to learn to live off it as the clans do. After many years in the wild, looking up for falling stars, he returned to the court to look for his priest friend, and hearing that his friend was among the clans, trying to convert them, he ventured to track him only to encounter what was carnage left behind by wild shavs. His priest friend left on a cross for the birds to eat him alive. The sight was so intense that it buried an image into his mind. He brought the priest down, giving him a proper burial. Nowhere else to go, he came back to Cloudspine, his mother's house, to face her and his father for the shame he brought when he left the service of house Laurent. He swore vengeance through duty and to appease his family, offered himself as a potential bachelor for house Blackram to dispose of in an advantageous marriage.
  to dispose of in an advantageous marriage.)
• Nicos Ulbran  + (His father was Marcus, and his mother was …
  His father was Marcus, and his mother was April, but he never truly got to know them. When he was 12 years old, his parents had to flee Arx due to owing money to all the wrong people. He was always good with numbers, math, talking to folks, always one step ahead, so when they bailed on him, getting himself a job at a local store, doing the finances. He was able to carve out a name for himself as a wiz of financial means, also was friendly enough to get a job working at a local shop doing the finances. Through giving up his pay, he was slowly able to pay back his family debt. His folks have never returned to Arx, seeming to have vanished off the face of the earth. But, after a few years, he has a handful of clients working at their backrooms. Making a name for himself as a crack accountant can help anyone no matter how poor be able to budget.
  yone no matter how poor be able to budget.)
• Jasper Steelhart  + (His father, Lord Aaron Steelhart was cousi …
  His father, Lord Aaron Steelhart was cousins to Roslyn, Frederik, and Gregor Steelhart. A minor lord, he supported the main family by manning his fortress by the sea and assisting his cousins with protecting the shoreline. He married to Lady Lilian Ashford, while still in his mid-twenties and bore Jasper shortly afterwards. The oldest of three, he often found himself the protector of his two sisters. With his mother's tales of knights and valor, bolstering his Valardin heritage, and his father's fine example, Jasper knew that more than anything he wanted to be a knight. For many years, Jasper's life was consumed with his training. He excelled with not only the joust but also in melee with his sword. He even had an opportunity to foster with Frederik, developing connections with his other Steelhart clan. He spent time with Lionel and Sara. Even Padraig and Seth. When news of their betrayal that led to Lionel's death and Lady Lydia's suicide, he was devastated. His loss did not stop there. His parents were murdered at the Tragedy of Sanctum, suddenly trusting him sooner than he wanted into being the head of the family and caring for his little sisters. He met a woman, claiming to be Lady Blackshore, who was suddenly there as a friend, a confident. She had recently lost her fortunes and being the kind host, he offered sanctuary to the woman until she could contact her family. With all the pressures, he found himself leaning on her more and more. Obligation become love and finally he proposed marriage. Everything moved quickly as his bride urged him not to wait, to move forward. Eager to start his own family, he went along. Except the wedding never happened because his bride disappeared the night before their wedding day. He contacted the authorities, fearing the worst had happened to his bride, only to find this woman never existed. She was false in her words and took advantage of a young lord. Jasper learned a hard lesson on trusting others. The next several years were spent getting things back in order, rebuilding his finances and seeing to the education of his sisters. Dreams of being that dashing knight were put aside for more practical matters. Although, with the recent rumblings of war and call to banners, Jasper has felt the stirring once again. He finds himself in Arx to find husbands for his sisters and perhaps become the knight he originally put aside to see to his family.
  originally put aside to see to his family.)
• Holden Morgan  + (Holden's life has been one of expectation. …
  Holden's life has been one of expectation. The Morgan family has a long history of distinguished service for House Valardin, and this weight settled most squarely on Holden's shoulders as the oldest of seven. He was born to Hardwicke Morgan, Captain of the Guard at Sanctum, and his wife Symanthe, first of a long string of children over the years that followed: Elise, Sergio, Aleksei, Warrick, Sasha, and Briseis. Although his mother was a bright, vivacious, and somewhat dorkily-humored sort of woman, it was his father that Holden rather quickly took after: stern and serious, with a constant weight of responsibility on his shoulders. While all of his siblings (save Aleksei) took on the general mantle of expectation to serve responsibly and productively as commoner vassals of the Valardins, no one took it quite as seriously as Holden. He grew up with a sword in his hand and served as a guard, soldier, and man-at-arms -- whatever was needed at the time -- for the Valardins. He earned commands of his own by his actions in the field, recognized quickly for a clear natural aptitude for leadership and an unwavering sense of dedication and loyalty that outstripped his skill with a blade, and he was a friend and ally to the Valardin heir, Prince Vance. It was no surprise that he proved himself a hero at the Tragedy at Sanctum, saving many lives at the risk of his own. The knighthood that he earned for his actions -- a recognition he would once have been so humbled by and proud of -- was little solace for the fact that his own husband and child were among those who died that day, as well as his friend and compatriot Prince Vance. He continued to serve, as life can only move forward, but recovery has been a slow, private process. And now, with Bringers at the door several years later, he has been sent to Arx to continue his service for the High Lord and the rest of the family there.
  igh Lord and the rest of the family there.)