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"Her father was a cousin from a cadet bran …
"Her father was a cousin from a cadet branch of the Nightgold family out in Stonedeep. Her mother was a from a similarly distant branch of the Hawkmours that had come from Brassfall March. North met south in the capital city one summer and unified in a marriage of mutual love and desire to ally, creating their own small family: Nighthawk. By that winter, on an evening that heralded the birth of their only child, Vesper, Lord Nighthawk gained his heir - but lost his wife. Vesper entered the world, squalling, and covered in the blood of her dying mother. Her father was taciturn and serious, but he probably had one soft spot -- and one that he was overly protective -- his daughter. The son he wanted turned into the daughter he had but that still did not stop him from ensuring she knew how to protect herself. If she were to be his heir she would know how to balance being a Lady and being a Knight. So, she learned to fight with a sword as well as dance. She was taught history and religion, though a broad overview of both the Pantheon and shamanistic practices, not one specifically, so she could know enough of the Faith and bargain well with the Abandoned. Like her father she was an intimidating woman when she needed to be and he found, when he let her take up some of the trade bargaining, that she had a good intuition and perspective for judging people. Of course, teaching her was a problem when she was not sneaking away to listen to the rangers talk about the best places to go hunting and learning various survival skills if she were to be caught out on her own. One even took up teaching her to ride while fighting, and a bit of brawling -- but her Father did not want to know about that. Sometimes, her father would wonder, behind that stern countenance, if she had any heart at all anymore. Then he would catch her in moments when she thought she was alone ? singing off-key while she strummed a broken mandolin with two strings, that she found out in the woods chasing a deer on horseback. Yes, his little girl was quite a thing and... he was proud of her. She would make a wonderful woman, with no regrets that she is not the proper Lady. With her father's blessing, Sir Nighthawk sets out to return to the capital city of Arx to seek her future as a knight or Sword to her mother's Hawkmour kin if they have need - or seek a new venture for herself as a mercenary for hire. More recently, she embraced the Knights of Solace, and took her vows as a godsworn knight placing her family behind her, and joining the Faith of the Pantheon."
r, and joining the Faith of the Pantheon." +
"I can barely remember the Saffron Chain. …
"I can barely remember the Saffron Chain. I was but a small child when my family came to the city. My father was a merchant, patriarch of the family. He sought to bring his business here to make a name for himself and the family. Unfortunately, he never quite made it as big as he had dreamed. We really cannot complain though, we have shelter and food. We do not go without our needs. Though,he had always dreamed of more. Mother had a talent with cooking and she always seemed to enjoy providing for the family. She always did father's biding with a smile on her face. Many men envied him for the wife he had. However, she took ill and died when I was twelve. Since then, father was not the same. He drank. He lost interest in the business. The family began to suffer for it. One thing I learned from mother was how to sew. I am actually quite good at it. The actors and actresses come to me for their costumes when putting on their plays. People around the city seek me out to make new garments for them. I have used this to help build the family back up. It all goes back to the family.
y back up. It all goes back to the family. +
"Let the silver fall, boy!" The echoes of …
"Let the silver fall, boy!" The echoes of Ajax's father still crawling through his skull. He was a surprisingly happy child before the fall of Tyde under the strict tutelage of his father and mother both well respected if not ruthless merchants of the realm which led to an unfortunate bit of scrutiny on the otherwise happy go lucky child. As he aged into the world properly he never found himself taken with further education provided by his parents and as he simply seemed to lack the patience required to be a merchant. In his teenage years, he spent time away from his mother and father to learn the art of sword play from a distant uncle. Learning chivalry, and the art of the sword spoon fed the tales of war and adventure against the elves. Ajax was being prepared for service to a knight when Tyde had fallen. When the news had reached the land he had disappeared only being spoken of in rare passing. During the start of Ajax adulthood he would be found amongst the Redwood mercenary company, often guarding the roads, fighting in small skirmishes for coin. Eventually, parting to earn his own way in the world. While those who encounter him claim he cares for little for status, he seems content in his own dreams in hording a large stockpile of coin
reams in hording a large stockpile of coin +
"Poetry" is not a word that most outside o …
"Poetry" is not a word that most outside of the Mourning Isles would associate with the place, but it does exist there. When he was a young boy, Griffin Redreef displayed a remarkable ability to compose verse, to the point that his first collection was published when he was only twelve. That collection, and several subsequent folios, received widespread acclaim around the Isles, and he was hailed as an emerging virtuoso, who in time would perhaps become the defining poet of the Isles. His parents, Dua and Spencer Redreef, were happy that their youngest son was bolstering the family's reputation, but honestly weren't terribly interested in a poet. They're part of the most staunchly traditionalist branch of the Redreef family tree, and were far more keen to lavish attention on their two older children, Gehenna the diplomat and Nimue the horse-breaker. Perhaps that's what seeded Griffin's progressive leanings. As he grew of age, Griffin became more and more willing to speak out in favor of progressivism in the Mourning Isles. When Baron Landis Redreef died, his brother Tiberius laid claim to Redreef Shores, but this claim was contested by Landis's daughters, Ember and Marina. When the swords were drawn, Griffin sided with Ember and Marina, to fight for the progressive ideals he believed in. Griffin fought valiantly, even though his prowess was much more 'acceptable' than 'exceptional.' Still, he survived. But for him to survive, others had to die. Griffin slew six men on the battlefield over the course of the drawn-out conflict, and he remembers each of them clearly, and the looks on their faces as life left them. He also remembers the looks on the faces of those on his side who were cut down, and the smell of dirt made wet with blood, and what it was like to walk around in the quiet after a battle, looking for the remaining pieces of bodies that used to be his friends. When Ember won the conflict and established herself as Baroness, Griffin thought he was ready to return to poetry. He imagined that he would compose an epic about the struggle, but when he sat at his desk to write, no words came. As months passed, he found no words coming to him about anything else, either. His gift felt as though it must still be there within him, but always just out of reach, taunting him with potential. In the absence of writing, Griffin took to reading. He became a ravenous autodidact, exploring whatever took his fancy, particularly as it pertained to Death, the Wheel, and other things that weighed heavily on his mind after his time fighting. This led to his initiation into the Harlequins, where he hopes that in helping others and sifting through the legends, his inspiration will return to him.
gends, his inspiration will return to him. +
"Since I were a child I have no family to …
"Since I were a child I have no family to relate. Raised by a drunk oldman I had to work everyday and struggle to keep my life. I learned how to fight in the street to keep my coins. Early I found a sage and he taught me how to read. Since then I collect books to get the most knowledge and skills I can. I became attached to heroic stories, moral issues, logic, occultism. My physics are just a little above average. But my mind is sharp. I acquired a lute wich I started to learn, since the songs can calm the beasts. I have a short sword wich I can handle in an avarage manner. I'm always with a book wich I trade every time I finish. I have no home, so the book serves me as pillow too. To survive I'm always finding freelances and tasks people needs other people to do. My work is honest though. I seek for the world mysteries while trying to find my own path to my destiny."
trying to find my own path to my destiny." +
"Such a clever girl." That was often heard …
"Such a clever girl." That was often heard in regard to Tescelina from a very early age. The sole daughter of Baptiste and Antoinette Wyrmguard. She possessed -- besides a love of star-gazing and reading for long hours in the library -- a fierce sense of right and wrong. Throwing herself into harms way on numerous occasions for relatives and close friends. Her father put her on the path to becoming a knight, which she accomplished by the age of 18. Alas, she had gone questing from her home only two years later and taken up residence in House Bellerive's county during the height of the turmoil regarding the Great Road. Reports of these events are scarce. However, while visiting a small villa, it was beset by attackers late in the evening. By dawn's light, only Tescelina remained alive. Wearing her night clothes, drenched in blood, and clutching her sword while standing in the villa's expansive sunflower field. She could not and would later be unable to recall what transpired. But all were found brutally mutilated. This is believed to have been Abandoned before they were driven to the border. Some speculated that she was the slayer but this could not be proven. For despite her appearance, her sword had not a drop of blood on it. They began, in whispers, to simply refer to her as the Knight of Sunflowers. She has come to Arx after a few months of recovery and /encouraged/ to take the trip by her parents who believe that the city will do her good -- and keep her out of the minds of those back home in the Oathlands.
minds of those back home in the Oathlands. +
"Why do the sun and the moon constantly sw …
"Why do the sun and the moon constantly switch places?" a young girl asked her tutor. "Why can't they be out at the same time?" The girl pulled a flower blossom from one of the vines growing in the palace garden, studying it carefully while dismantling the bloom one petal at a time. The blossom began to turn to ash in the girl's hand and the tutor looked down on her, reflecting back her own face in his mirrored mask. "Death does not want anything to live eternal, so it kills the sun and the moon and makes them to be reborn each day in their time." It's later, years later, and a different robed figure in a different mask guides an older girl through some labyrinthine hallways. Through the wooden door they pass a woman screams, heart-wrenching and piercing. "Why do they always scream?" the girl asks her current tutor. "Because they have been brought near to death through their injuries, and now must be yanked back from the claws of that jealous Goddess," the Magister answered. And so went Jasra tutoring for years. Each week she would spend time with tutors who would show her how to be a diplomat, and an equal amount of time being shown the religion of the Silent City. This was the life of a Princess of the Silent City. Until one day the question became, "Why do I have to leave?" and the answer was, "Because the Dune Emperor will not leave you alive if you do not flee." Since then Jasra has been running. Running until there was vast water between her and man that supposedly wanted her dead. Running until she was working for the Skal'dajans under a false name. Running until she was able to be 'liberated' by the House or Pravus. And now Jasra is just another refugee. Another exotic face and voice clogging up the streets as she looks for a way to retake what was hers, seeking out others she's heard of that may have similar goals. But that's not enough for her mind; it's needs challenges. So she's joined the Faith as a Mirrormask, ready to put her questioning mind to use.
ready to put her questioning mind to use. +
"You've got no right, with you head lost i …
"You've got no right, with you head lost in stories... put that daft book down and help me wash these floors, Ori." - Mama Orick was born to an unhappy tavern wench on a cold and dreary autumn evening in the worst part of Tor. He was a very inquisitive child and yet he possessed a certain caution from a young age, getting himself into perilous situations and almost always scraping by without being caught. He often stole food from the kitchen where his mother worked and when he got a little older he stole books and others things from the patrons in the tavern. Orick had limited formal schooling but his natural talents as an autodidact made it possible for him to absorb things through trial and error or mere observation. When he was nine years old he stole a book from a member of the Faith without realizing who he was trying to rip off. Before young Orick could even read it the victim of the crime was pitching a fit to the owner of the tavern. Fed up with the boy's antics, the tavern owner made Orick return the book and then fired his mother from her position at the establishment. Times were tough after that and it was a very harsh winter but eventually his mother found work as a scullery maid in the kitchens of a Fidante household. His father was an unreliable drunk who became more estranged as the years drifted on until he was a mere memory from childhood. Living a servant's life in a noble house gave Orick better access to books and he absorbed the knowledge around him at every opportunity. At age seventeen he sought a place in the College of Apothecary. Orick offered to work as a doctor, apothecary and general alchemist for the Fidante family if they would help finance his education. That was over a decade ago and now he works as a professor at the college and a private alchemist and medical consultant for the Fidante family.
medical consultant for the Fidante family. +
%T Lissa Ardellian's history is unexceptio …
%T Lissa Ardellian's history is unexceptional. That isn't to say it's boring, but in a land ruled by turmoil and the constant machinations of a strange political machine, the life of a peasant is a very meager one in comparison. The young knight-aspirant isn't really too eager to tell of it, either. Maybe one day, there'll be a tale or two spread about her time weeding the farm or rooting up potatoes. Maybe.
ng the farm or rooting up potatoes. Maybe. +
%T Raknorauth was born in the furthest nor …
%T Raknorauth was born in the furthest north, deep within the Everwinter Wood where the souls of men are rarely welcome. In such climates, men have no time for foolishness or flights of fancy, for every hour wasted brings a lazy soul three steps closer to death. But even in such an environment, curiosity can bloom. It is said, mostly by himself, that the first word he spoke as a babe was 'Why', and in the years since, his innate curiosity has only grown. %T Though he warred and clashed with other tribes, worked hard to survive every Deep Freeze, and strove not to disappoint his tribe, Raknorauth could never quite rid himself of his constant need to understand things. So, at the conclusion of his 26th Deep Freeze, he packed up his few belongings, called to his dog, and set off south to find the answers to his questions. Many among his people called him a traitor, others a fool. he was forbidden ever to return. But still he left, convinced that if he were ever to learn what the world was, and why, he would have to look elsewhere. %T For three long, dangerous years he traveled through the Shav lands. Often he came close to death, many a night he spent cold and hungry. But eventually he made it. And after a brief adventure and short brush with death, bent the knee to House Redrain and the Crown, swearing to abide the laws of the pact in exchange for acceptance into this new and exciting culture.
ptance into this new and exciting culture. +
%TAs a child of a Child of the Sun and Moo …
%TAs a child of a Child of the Sun and Moon, Behtuk and his father were nomadic travelers. About wenty years ago, when Behtuk was only a child, their tribe came across an abandoned vessel on the ice. In the course of looting this vessel, they came across a dying man. Behtuk and his father stayed behind to nurse the man back to health as thanks for bringing them the bounty of the vessel. %TThe stranger learned their tongue, and taught them his. He taught Behtuk the trick to forging steel, for in his homeland he was a smith of renown. When the stranger recovered from his wounds, he took his leave of Behtuk and his father, claiming that it was too dangerous for him to stay as he was a hunted man. He was only too right. %TWithin a single moon of the strangers' departure the hunter came. Behtuk's father said: 'This is a demon, run! Don't look back.' And Behtuk obeyed. He returned a day later to find his father dead, and all their supplies stolen. Behtuk was unprepared to care for himself in the unforgiving North and he did not know how to rejoin his nomadic tribe. %TSo Behtuk left the North, travelling to the land the Stranger was from, someplace where he would be able to hide his crimes. When he entered Redrain he found it welcoming. He already spoke the language, and he was able to apprentice as a smith with the knowledge the Stranger had given him. For the past twenty years he has served as an apprentice or journeyman. It was slow going, but he has just completed his masterwork and come to Arx to support his House and ply his trade. If he still holds onto the knife the Stranger gave him and secretly hopes to meet him again in Arx. He is uncertain though whether he owes the Stranger a debt, or if the Stranger owes him one for his father's death.
anger owes him one for his father's death. +
%TBecka spent the first ten years of her l …
%TBecka spent the first ten years of her life growing up in the march of Fair Harbour. Her parents were merchants and took the best care they could of the girl. She had a good childhood, but that all changed once her parents left to Arx for a new opportunity and different life. On the trip over they all became ill, and Becka barely survived the death of her parents. Orphaned and left alone, the girl found her new home on the streets, where she remains today. The only difference now is that she is the one helping the misfortunate children.
the one helping the misfortunate children. +
%TKyden started life as an orphan in Arx, …
%TKyden started life as an orphan in Arx, though she remembers little of the city she's recently returned to. She was adopted at an incredibly young age for the sole purpose of being raised as a deckhand upon a ship that ended up being owned by pirates. Whether this was charity, or some sick plan to breed the perfect sailor is unknown, as the ship in question crashed along the shore of the Navegant when she was but 13 years old. She washed ashore on the island of Escuma, where she spent most of her time living off charity and theft. %TNot much is known about her time amongst the pirates, nor her time spent upon Escuma, but it is there that she began to sculpt. Obsessively. Ceaselessly. There were natural resources nearby, but she soon grew tired of raw clay and mud. She began to steal more and more, but amateur criminals do not last long in such small populaces, and soon she was being shipped off to spend some quality time as a Thrall in Donrai's workgangs. %TUnfortunately, she had little desire to work on anything but her mad art, and her insolence had her in and out of the dungeons, until one day, she simply disappeared...
, until one day, she simply disappeared... +
%TLuck rarely seemed to be on the side of …
%TLuck rarely seemed to be on the side of Nottie, especially as an orphan that was born to parents of the Redrain fealty, who lived in the Lower Boroughs. Her parents died when she was but a tot, her relatives that were to take care of her abandoned her to live in the streets and she had no siblings. This made life for her rough but she managed to scrape by with the kindness of those with more means than her. %THowever, her luck continued to fail her as quite often she fell ill or someone she was close to fell ill. If it was not an illness it was someone from the Boroughs robbing her quite blind. Truly, life was rough for poor little Nottie. During her time growing up in the Boroughs Nottie had a run in with the leader of the Ulbran family, much to her fear. She had been with someone he knew and she was telling the person of things that happened to her. Theodoric thought she was taking this person for all he was worth but, somehow, she managed to get some of the luck that keeps missing her. He didn't do anything ill towards her and, instead, took her into his family. She thought her luck was changing for the better when she found her husband but, alas, it did not for very soon after they were married he was made a Thrall to some noble within the Thrax family with a debt quite high. So, she has been working on raising funds to help buy his freedom back.
aising funds to help buy his freedom back. +
%TMarcus was the sort of boy that could be …
%TMarcus was the sort of boy that could be found more often in the fields with the animals and crops then learning the needful things a nobles son might be required to learn. Something that was of little concern at the time being from the 'off' side of the family. And there was always plenty of work to be done. %TWhen duty fell apon Marcus's family after the Tor-Southport war it seemed a heavy burden. Still his father raised no dogers of duty in his household and Marcus set about doing as he must to befit this sudden new station he found himself in. %TSent off to learn the ways of war, the gentle hearted young man found himself to be a disapointment to warriors and of great boon to the healers. Offered the role of medic he eagarly chose that role instead, starting to add to his decent store of knowledge about plants and animals as well as friendly brawls with his fellow soldiers. Eventually earning himself a name as a great fighter with his fists and feet.
s a great fighter with his fists and feet. +
%TThe remnants of the Morien family has al …
%TThe remnants of the Morien family has always told stories that before the Reckoning, they were a great clan with land, but they were mostly slaughter by the White Legion, and their lands overrun. The family never achieved the power that they once had, and was one of the dozen clans that were crushed in battle that led to the formation of the House of Halfshav. Morien family is now a collection of distant cousins scattered around the north. %TThis "interpretation" of their family history inspired Tarik to want to be more than simple commoner like the rest of his family, even if he didn't completely believe in the story himself. He realizes at a young age that he would never be able take over his mom's duties as a weaponsmith, so he decided to use the weapons that his mother designed to find his way in life. His mother wishing to encourage her son decision to find his own path would give her customers' discounts if they would teach her Tarik to fight. By the time he reached 18, he felt that he had enough basic skills to begin his life as a sellsword. Tarik's first job was being a guard for some caravans. He was so excited, until the other guards betrayed the caravans to the bandits. Tarik had to fight the other guards and the bandits to protect the caravans. He saved the caravans, but he still supports a visible scar from that battle by his ear and neck. He received the other guards share of the money, there was no other rewards, no songs of glory, and only the slightest gratitude offered in the appreciation of his efforts. When he was counting his extra coin, he learned in that moment that to achieve his goals in life that just being lucky or good with sword was not enough. As a sellsword, he has done a stint in the military, he served as a body guard for merchants, protecting caravans, and has even helped find "missing" people. He tries to keep himself very busy by immediately looking for another job. once the previous one has ended.
ther job. once the previous one has ended. +
%TToste Redrain grew up in Farhaven with t …
%TToste Redrain grew up in Farhaven with the other Redrain children and spent most of his early childhood running around the surrounding forests hunting imaginary wolves or bears and occasionally much fiercer things with wooden sword in hand. Brave and loyal to a fault, he had a strong sense of right and wrong and more than once he ended up getting in trouble, or a bloody nose for sticking up for one of the smaller kids. %TOnly ever an average student, Toste discovered his passion when he was presented with his first horse on his ninth birthday. He quickly showed promise as a rider and throughout his teenage years trained rigorously with the spear and threw himself into a study of tactics, becoming a capable cavalry officer. %THe never lost that idealistic streak though. Raised on stories of questing knights, he regularly competed in tourneys and the like, even winning a few, though he's now setting his sights on bigger things. Tired of chasing shavs around the Northlands and small tie local tourneys, he's set his sights on Arx and dreams of winning glory and renown.
rx and dreams of winning glory and renown. +
'Born to House Malgentilega - a vassal hou …
'Born to House Malgentilega - a vassal house under House Pravus - Farrah grew up among the spoiled and feckless youths of high society. Granted every desire, and shielded from the consequences of her mistakes, she didn\'t quite understand life. Her mother died when she was young and her father might have wanted to keep her innocent of the world, but in truth he was inattentive and busy with his own social and financial ambitions. He believed that money was an acceptable substitute for love and did not pay attention to Farrah as long as she did not cause a serious embarrassment for the House. As might be expected, Farrah\'s freewheeling lifestyle led her into trouble. When she was fourteen years old, she was already involved with drinking and carousing with the children of other nobles. By this age she was almost considered an adult and given considerably more freedom than she enjoyed as a child. Her associations and revelries bored her eventually. She sought out more exciting pastimes and found herself gradually associating with a rougher crowd. Many of her friends at this time were nobles also seeking excitement, but into this circle of friends came some who were more interested in her money than her friendship. One of these suggested that thievery would be very exciting and enticed her into the trade. Her early failures were covered over by her family, or by "friends" in high society, and eventually she grew more skilled. But, fate took a hand as she turned nineteen years old. She planned a robbery of a temple, and during this daring raid her partner abandoned her. She was caught and created a tremendous scandal for her family. After paying a hefty fine and receiving widespread scorn, her inattentive father decided she needed to be ironed out with something to keep her out of trouble, and she was given a choice: travel to Tor and agree to study at the renown Apothecary College to learn a craft to worship Jayus and learn some discipline, or be cast out of the family and left to fend for herself as a commoner. To someone like Farrah, it wasn\'t much of a choice. She went to Tor and studied under her strict, no-nonsense uncle for three years. She grew to accept routine and the temptations which usually led her astray were removed. When she returned home her father was delighted by her progress, but Farrah had little interest in becoming a Mercy or scholar and found herself directionless once again. She reacquainted herself with the intrigues of the court, and she kept her eyes and ears open, occasionally selling information to a small group of influential clientele. Eventually, through her contacts and information brokering, she caught the eye of one of Setarco's foremost courtiers. Seeking a new thrill and being naturally suited to the profession, she traveled to Setarco and became a lovely courtier of modest noble birth, much to the chagrin of her parents who wished for her to avoid intrigues that could tempt her into scandal. But at least she was home, and she wasn\'t stealing any more. As far as they knew. House Malgentilega was destroyed along with its liege House Argento by House Pravus for treason in the fall of 1006 AR. While her father was found guilty of the same crimes of his brethren and executed, she and her siblings were given a choice to join him or to bend the knee to the new Count Amadeo due to their blood ties with House Pravus. Farrah wisely decided to do the latter, seeking to stay on House Pravus\'s good side even in spite of the family\'s losses. Farrah began to look for a way to better her social standing among her peers outside of being a courtier, and started marriage negotiations with several prominent families. In the end, however, those within the Lyceum were reluctant to commit so soon after the downfall of Argento and its vassals and Farrah began to look elsewhere. She traveled to Arx and situated herself at court, and eventually she found herself a husband in the newly ennobled Baron Silas Whitehawk.'
the newly ennobled Baron Silas Whitehawk.' +
*Background: * For the first many years o …
*Background: * For the first many years of his life, Estaban grew up in the Saikland Greens where he stayed and learned to hunt and cared for his family, learning the basics of diplomacy from the noble around him. While he was a boy he learned how to hunt and helped teach his sisters how to enjoy nature, putting them in trees, having mud fights with them, and doing other fun children things with his siblings. When Estaban was fourteen years old his parents sent him off to foster his sense of adventure and desire to be on a boat. He sailed with many people but while his sister, Arcelia, was in Nilanza he often traveled with Argento sailors so that he could frequently visit her. He eventually taught his sister how to sail when her own curiosity consumed her. When Arcelia left the care of the Argento's he went to spend time with the Malvici where he spent four years learning more about the military arts.
rs learning more about the military arts. +
A Malvici cousin raised in Southport, the …
A Malvici cousin raised in Southport, the former Lady Amanita Malvici, now just Amanita - was raised with an extensive emphasis on both knowledge and fighting. It was an exhausting childhood. Her mother, who came from Valardin stock, was a renowned alchemist and healer who named Amanita herself after a type of mushroom. Her father was a soldier who rarely spent time at home but doted on Amanita and her siblings when he was there. Between schooling, learning how to fence, learning which dinner fork to use, how to dance, and what to wear to which occasion, Amanita found herself in want of something more than the life of a noble - particularly a Lady. Despite the relative freedom that her mother was granted, she still found it too restrictive, and the prospect of arranged political marriages scared her. As some of her siblings got married off, Amanita realized that her time would likely come sooner than later and with some finessing, she talked her parents into sending her to courtier training. A gawky, uncoordinated teenager went into a school - and a tall, slightly better coordinated young lady came out. After spending some time as a courtier in Southport, Amanita has made her way to Arx to seek out her fortune and join the renowned Whisper House, hoping to glean more education from them and perhaps become a great Whisper in her own rite. At the very least, her extended family is in the City, and she'd like to visit.
y is in the City, and she'd like to visit. +
A Prodigal from the Mourning Isles, Claude …
A Prodigal from the Mourning Isles, Claude is rather private about much of his history. This much seems to be true: once upon a time, he was a shav carpenter with a family. His tribe's village was one of the many that fell to the Gyre, and whatever family he had was lost. He made it to Arx during the Silent War, but moved on quickly enough to Old Oak after befriending Dame Zhayla, House Deepwood's Sword. It was the tragic death of that same friend that eventually brought him back to Arx, seemingly renewed in his desire to do some good amidst all of the dangers facing the world. At least as much as a quiet, artistically-minded carpenter can do. He'll make a start by joining the Faith's disciple ranks as a Liberator of Skald, serve as a vassal of House Deepwood, and go from there.
ssal of House Deepwood, and go from there. +
A Ravenseye cousin, Jayden grew up in Stor …
A Ravenseye cousin, Jayden grew up in Stormheart as a quiet, content and attentive child. He was an imaginative young man, often just staring at the cold wind as it rustled through the winter trees around the, lost in something that mesmerized him. His father taught him when he was old enough to hold a knife steady how to carve and widdle, intending it to just improve his reflexes and the strength of his hands, but little did the man know but he was dedicating his son to a future of art and beauty. That's not exactly typical for the his house. Sailors and the like for the most part, the life never suited Jayden. As he grew older, he became fascinated with the idea of instruments-- wood and wind, his favored spirits-- and turning his creative talents into making them. He came to Arx a couple years ago, and has made a name for himself for the quality of his instruments that he makes, names, and then gifts to those who are of need or worthy.
gifts to those who are of need or worthy. +
A Redrain prince, born to shepherd the nor …
A Redrain prince, born to shepherd the north, and be a blade at the front. From a young age, it was clear that Leif had a wisdom most children his age did not. He was both empathetic and patient, even as a bratty child, that often drew respect from his elders. As he grew this only increased, Leif began to train as a warrior, though many turned to him for his point of view and perspective. He often was able to see the issue from both sides, and mediate whether it be for peer or elder. He approached issues with a calm, and open demeanor which garnered him respect from both the warriors that were under him and led him. Leif's younger sisters were a prize to him. He spent as much time as he could with them when he was not being called on for his warrior or princely duties. The young Redrain prince was becoming something quite promising, an inspiration to his people, a strong blade, and a kind and wise man. At one point Leif's popularity was nearly unrivalled at one point, there were simply not many that could find a quarrel with the man. Of course you cannot be all things to all people, but it was hard to dislike a man who only poured out kindness and loyalty to those around him. And then Stormwall happened. The Pirate King attacked the Compact, and of course Prince Leif Redrain was amongst the warriors who defended the city from the attack of the undead. He cut down many of the enemy but eventually was separated from the rest of his forces. Early on, it was thought that Leif perished in Stormwall. Until it was later revealed that the Prince did in fact survive, rescued by a company of Templar. After he returned, there was a short amount of time until Leif no longer practiced shamanism. And only a short amount of time after that, did Leif renounce his title as a prince and take vows as a Godsworn Templar in the Faith of the Pantheon. His decision was pretty unpopular in the north, and despite the criticism that he has received, Leif has maintained a deep love and respect for his people. He has a deep respect for their history and their roots of shamanism, but he cannot deny the path and the calling he has found from the Gods. Adamant and passionate about his new solidified faith he has determined, it is the way forward. And so, Leif reports to Arx as a Godsworn Templar. While some will say he has abandoned his family, and others will call him a brave hero for his choice, Leif maintains that he must love and protect both sides. Hated or loved, he is called to serve, and he will not turn from that calling.
e, and he will not turn from that calling. +
A brother of Kastelon, Kendrick joined him …
A brother of Kastelon, Kendrick joined him in helping protect the people of Oakhaven. While he was inclined to become a huntsman alongside him, he quickly noticed the difference between him and his sibling. He realized that he would be an ideal fit for a Knight - the strength of arm and personality that were required were clearly found in him. Growing up with his brother, they diverged paths, with Kendrick realizing he had a different plan to serve the Keaton family, and the Compact at large. As a young adult, he serves House Keaton, protecting Oakhaven with his martial prowess, obtained through years of training. He continues to grow in strength, hoping to achieve his goal of obtaining Knighthood.
achieve his goal of obtaining Knighthood. +
A child of the Mourning Isles, Lora was bo …
A child of the Mourning Isles, Lora was born and raised in Grimhems Point, where trying to Out Thrax House Thrax is no rumor, it is the way of life for House Grimhall. She is one many children between Anton Grimhall and his wife, Helena Grimhall nee Hawkmour. From a very young age, Lora exhibited her love for the arts, specifically music. Before she learned to speak, she was humming the songs her nannies would sing in order to lull her to sleep. By the time she was three, she could play simple tunes on the piano. The dull, overcast skies would suddenly brighten whenever Loralei would entertain her family with music. She has a way about her, an energy, an aura, that draws others to her and as a result can count on many she considers friends. Like her siblings, Lora spent many years under the tutelage of myriad instructors. Her training, while mainly consisting of social graces, often dabbled in a few lessons that focused on the high seas and adventure. It is no surprise then that the young Grimhall lady often jumped at the opportunity to join her mother during diplomatic visits to the Lyceum. The Southern city-states held an exotic flavor to them that resonated deeply within Loralei. Tor in particular held her interest with their rich history, their location on the opposite side of the Lycene split, world renown roses, emeralds, and apothecaries, one can say the city seduced her and she found herself quickly married to Nico Fidante, cousin to former Duke Leo and his sister Calista Fidante. It was a gorgeous ceremony that took place in Spring proper while all of the roses were starting to bloom. Like most marriages, Lora and Nico fulfilled a political arrangement, but there was genuine affection between them as well. As a Fidante, Lora continued to excel in all areas of social decorum. It has been noted quite a few times that her style and fashion is copied time and time again. As for her love of music, she founded a small school of the arts in Tor that provides education for less fortunate children. When Nico died at sea during one of the heinous battles against the Gyre, Loralei was heartbroken. The story of a young widow is sadly not an uncommon one. After what seemed like an appropriate time to mourn her husband, Loralei set off to Arx from Tor to reinvent herself, offer her assistance to her Fidante family, and keep her promise to Nico that she would accomplish all the things she originally set out to accomplish while they were married. A transplanted rose from the Mourning Isles by way of Tor can surely set roots in the capital city. Come abyss or high water.
he capital city. Come abyss or high water. +
A child of the Oathlands, born in Oakhaven …
A child of the Oathlands, born in Oakhaven to a pair of Keaton Trackers, Apollo might have had an idyllic childhood in the woods. But while traveling between Lyon's Redoubt and Keaton Keep when he was six, he and his parents were ambushed by bandits. His parents were killed, and he was kept; life as a bandit would have been an ironic twist for the child of peacekeepers. But other Trackers eventually found the hideout, and Apollo, recognized, was taken to Keaton Keep, where Countess Margerie took him in. Nigh silent, owlish, grieving, the genial warmth and friendships he found in Oakhaven nurtured him from near mute to merely skittish. His early artistic impulses were noticed, and connections made with local artisans; when he found tanning, he found his first love. He swiftly rose to local prominence for his craft, and Marquis Kael tapped him to come to Arx. He might have been a big fish in a small pond - but he wasn't. Apart from exceptional tradecraft, his care for his liege house, his customers, and his fellow crafters had him lending an ear, a set of armor, or assistance as often as he was taking commissions. And then more often. He became Co-Guildmaster of the Crafters Guild of Arx, a position he held for more than two years. Though often uncertain about his skillset and utility, his time bent toward diplomatic and economic work, outreach with Abandoned, and cultivation of ties between crafters, houses, and organizations for projects and mutual assistance. He took up with Whisper House, first as an associated courtier, then Apprentice Whisper, leaving House Keaton to serve as a Whisper in mid-1014 after a successful diffusion of tensions in the Oathlands. Then in 1015, in answer to his service to House Darkwater and its vassals, he was offered ennoblement. He accepted, stepping down as Guildmaster and retiring as a Whisper, though his ties to both organizations remain. In truth, though his life has changed to a vast degree, much remains. He is a maker of art and a builder of connections, and it is rare a day that passes without some of both. Now, after a brief, quiet betrothal, he's joined House Malespero as Marquis-Consort, where he'll doubtless bring those same instincts to the people of Nilanza. And where better for an orphan like himself?
d where better for an orphan like himself? +
A child of uncertain parentage, Rylan was …
A child of uncertain parentage, Rylan was born in the year 983 on the island of Nilanza and fostered amongst a family of scribes in service to House Argento. Never quite one of the family, he was yet raised well, with food in his belly and kind words when they were earned, and given an education in all the things a scribe should know - at the least a neat hand and a good memory. He never quite took to the notion of being quiet and unobtrusive in the manner of a discrete scribe however, finding far more joy in hearing tales from the many visitors to the island, not to mention drinking and gambling with them. While he did serve Argento as a scribe in some small matters in his mid to late teens, the vocation never really 'stuck'. During the destruction of the treacherous House Argento in 1006, he chose to leave the island and seek his fortunes elsewhere, intending to send earnings home to his foster family who found themselves abruptly out of work - at least until House Malespero was formed and took their place. By that time he was already situated in Arx, having held a dozen simple jobs over the years - a labourer at the docks, serving drinks at any number of bars, carrying messages for merchants and more, and continued to do so until he reached the age of 30. Each job teaching him something new, but nothing that could be called a career or vocation. Finally in 1013 he decided that he should put his people skills to good use, taking up as an apprentice with Whisper House, learning to serve the great and the good. And everyone else at that.
t and the good. And everyone else at that. +
A childhood spent growing up on one of the …
A childhood spent growing up on one of the lush fragrant vineyards that surround the village of Saikland Greens sounds idyllic, a vision painted in dreamscape. In truth it was incredibly dull. Nothing of note happened throughout Saedrus' youth. Much of it he spent working on the family land, small as it was, with his six sisters and little else. They were a close family for many years but slowly one by one their numbers drew short as each of his sisters wed and started their own families leaving Saedrus to care for the vineyard alone, what with his father's failing health. It all came to an end when his father passed. Saedrus had the choice then to keep making some of the most tantalizing wine as his father had done, and his father before him, or he could become more than a simple farmer. Wanderlust had always been in his heart but it was not until responsibility to his family had faded that the want for adventure became unbearable, that and the group of troubadours passing through Saikland Greens added just enough push to drive Saedrus towards his ambitions. He stayed with the troupe for some months, travelling through the south and with them began his love for the arts, specifically music and dance. There would be more to learn though, and he could not stay with the musicians forever. The search for adventure and all the knowledge that comes with it saw Saedrus travel much of the continent in the first handful of years, never staying long enough to grow roots in one place. What called to him in all of his travels though were the schools of Courtesans where beauty and talent were drawn by the same brush and wrapped in silken finery; that was where he wanted to be. Where he could pursue his great love for performance and could bring that splendour to others, bring just a little colour and wonder into the darkness of the current state of the world. For the last four years he's studied at a small variety of schools along the eastern coast on a path that has lead him back to Arx. Saedrus has passed through the city on countless occasions, who knows how long he might stay this time.
ho knows how long he might stay this time. +
A country cousin from a lesser branch of H …
A country cousin from a lesser branch of House Zaffria, it's fairly well-known that the former Lady Magden Zaffria is a bit soft in the head. Her home near Gemecitta employed a rather skilled -- some might say renowned -- apothecary and physician to tend her mother's poor health. Though her mother died when Magden was still a child, the physician remained, taking the young girl on as a promising pupil. When her father died and her older brother had no interest in being responsible for her, she was taken in by the Rubino-Zaffrias in Arx. Unfortunately, Lady Magden's mental condition deteriorated while she was in Arx, resulting in a number of embarrassing public incidents. Her moments of fractious indelicacy and blindness to protocol made her relationship with her house particularly tense. Shortly after a disastrous duel to settle a matter of insult between herself and Duchess Nightgold, Lady Magden made a proclamation officially renouncing both her title and the Zaffria name. Why //specifically// this was done is a matter for speculation. She herself, now simply Magden, will often answer inquiries with wild and impossible tales -- or not at all.
ild and impossible tales -- or not at all. +
A cousin fairly far down the line of succe …
A cousin fairly far down the line of succession, Edwyn hasn't accomplished anything feast-worthy since birth, save perhaps for that time he'd managed to eat twenty bacon muffins the fastest. Like most of his kin, he was behooved to partake of the knightly tradition although despite his physical talent he has no particular love for the art of war, disdaining the troubles of hard campaign and the chore of having to chase down Shavs. %T Fortunately, he's been saved from further responsibility in Sanctum to find instead his own calling in Arx. He doesn't exactly know what it'll be, but who knows. It could be books, adventure, love, storytelling, getting shitfaced in the other wards, anything except counting coins for the Valardin and riding out in patrol, please, Edwyn's happy enough without that.
please, Edwyn's happy enough without that. +
A cousin to the current Duke, Baldwin was …
A cousin to the current Duke, Baldwin was from the start a deeply spiritual individual. It was this spirituality of his, this faith, that tempers the occasional impulses for which he was known in his childhood. After all, what little Baldwin loved more than to hear the stories of warfare and House Fidante's many glories was to brawl his relatives, or play-pretend with wooden swords a little too aggressively. As he grew, a certain contemplative nature also came about, and he would often be found in the various temples, meditating and praying when he wasn't compulsively training for what he believed was his true calling. He was fostered with a Southerner Knight Templar, then, both to complete his training and to assist the man in his fight against the Abandoned menace. Many years were spent as the young man flourished into a martially-inclined, highly competent adult, thanks to the spartan upbringing that ensued. Once he was knighted, following a particularly harrowing attack by the Abandoned at a westward holy site the newly-made knight decided to ride back south, after hearing of unrest in Tor. Once there, he joined forces with the Duke against the pretender Count. His training paid off; riding at the vanguard, his mettle was proven again and again in the field of combat, although some whisper of carefully measured brutality visited upon the foe, concealed beneath the veneer of valor at arms. Once Duke Leo was reinstated, he pledged his sword to him, willing to serve House Fidante against enemies without and within, as his liege requires.
without and within, as his liege requires. +
A daughter of a dying House - her father w …
A daughter of a dying House - her father was a Count within the Oathlands before his death. He always intended for her to marry someone influential to stave off the death of their House - she always refused. When he died, her older brother took his position, and she left. As her older brother had no children at the time of her departure, she is technically next in line for the County - but she refuses to have any part of it. Instead, she enjoys her status as a noble wanderer - intending to live her life in freedom and go with whatever comes her way.
reedom and go with whatever comes her way. +
A distant cousin of the Darkwater Family, …
A distant cousin of the Darkwater Family, distant enough to be considered fully out of the line of succession, Eamon was left on his own to come up with a way to make a living. Enrolling in the Navy, his connections let him rise through the ranks quickly - backed by his sharp mind and keen ability to turn conflicts around. As he was trusted with greater and greater command, his aptitude only grew, and soon word started to spread about the man, with many nicknames given - but none seeming to stick. He seemed to have hit the height of his progression without formal rank right before the Pirate King appeared and the war began in earnest. Darkwater Watch was ravaged. Even Eamon's mind wasn't enough to pull out a miracle, and when he found his ship surrounded, there was nothing he could do but barely manage to survive on a piece of driftwood until he was picked up by a passing merchant ship. But out of chaos, opportunity arises. With Darkwater's ranks severely depleted, his opportunities have skyrocketed, and so Eamon heads to Arx to make the connections needed to make his family strong once more.
eeded to make his family strong once more. +
A former lower class who was knighted upon …
A former lower class who was knighted upon loyalty and commitment in bringing in criminals of the Crown by working with the Knights and using his lower class status to go undetected mostly. Picked up his skills from a young age, fending for himself and making the most of his circumstances. Strong willed.
most of his circumstances. Strong willed. +
A foundling, originating in mystery and no …
A foundling, originating in mystery and no closer to clarity than when she began, Segrid grew up the ward of a certain nobleman since he discovered her in a port city on the far edge of the continent. Blonde and green-eyed, dressed in exotic tatters and utterly mute, she was able to capture something in him that compelled his care. Having been well-educated and trained, she has grown into a cultivated and sophisticated young woman with enough personal charms to recommend her to a good position. Mute until she was nearly adult, she seems unlikely to spill secrets even now.
seems unlikely to spill secrets even now. +
A frequent face around the Bank of Arx, He …
A frequent face around the Bank of Arx, Herbert Gavius is one of the type of men there that would live his entire life surrounded by other people and could disappear without a trace without any notice at all. With no friends or social ties whatsoever, he is many ways a perfect banker- he goes in, does work with the Bank of Arx, leaves, and it is as if he ceases to exist outside the confines of the Bank. Bland, reliable, and utterly forgettable.
Bland, reliable, and utterly forgettable. +
A heedless but handsome fellow. Was having …
A heedless but handsome fellow. Was having a stroll when suddenly all went black. The next thing he came to feel, was the intensive throbbing pain and the crusty rinlet of blood coming from the back of his head. Without having a clue as to where he is, nor where he came from, he's seeking out for someone who might be able to give him some guidance. He has a thing for good literature and some talent for finding lost stuff. He's also a goodhearted fellow and usually honest. Even though he might not be able to remember much as to who he was, before he woke up bleeding and in pain, at least he still knew his name. Not knowing where to go, he sets out to find civilization and get at least some basic wound treatment.
d get at least some basic wound treatment. +
A humble family whose matriarch is a seams …
A humble family whose matriarch is a seamstress in a barony outside of Bastion, the Rosens are no strangers to hardship. Jay was born a middle child in a household of four other children while his mother did her very best to keep them all sustained with her occupation. She is credited for keeping her family together after her husband died unexpectedly while on a winter trip to the Northland. Jay's sisters found jobs as soon as they were old enough and he did most of the manual labor whenever a repair around the house needed to be done. He was no stranger to gardening, building fences, stable duty, or cooking while his mother worked. In his youth, Jay discovered a talent for mending his own clothes whenever he found a tear in his pants or shirt from outdoor work he had been doing. Needlework brought a sense of deep satisfaction whenever he could repair a garment and save it from being tossed out. When he was of proper age he acquired an apprenticeship at a local tailor's shop where he learned the basics of running a business. In addition, the proprietor introduced him to the art of fashion and that's when he found his one true love: making clothes. He began to design and sew his own clothing, only to branch out and tailor for others when his confidence and experience grew. The more clothes he made, the clearer his vision became: he knew he was meant to become a Disciple of Jayus, join the Crafters Guild, open his own shop, and create clothes for all in the city of Arx.
create clothes for all in the city of Arx. +
A humble family whose matriarch is a seams …
A humble family whose matriarch is a seamstress in a barony outside of Bastion, the Rosens are no strangers to hardship. Joel was born a middle child in a household of four other children while his mother did her very best to keep them all sustained with her occupation. She is credited for keeping her family together after her husband died unexpectedly while on a winter trip to the Northland when her children were young. Joel's sisters found jobs as soon as they were old enough and he did most of the manual labor whenever a repair around the house needed to be done. He was no stranger to gardening, building fences, stable duty, or cooking while his mother worked. During that time, Joel discovered a talent for mending his own clothes whenever he found a tear in his pants or shirt from outdoor work he had been doing. It was by pure happenstance when he began to barter with local shopkeepers for yards of fabric to bring home that it all made perfect sense to him. Rather than save something old, why not obtain something new through trade? Bartering was a skill that he sharpened over the years and his path eventually led him to the city of Arx where the opportunity to open his own shop as a clothier beckoned to him.
is own shop as a clothier beckoned to him. +
A lawyer and dabbling-merchant specializin …
A lawyer and dabbling-merchant specializing in maritime affairs, Lord Alecto Threerivers served as Voice to the late Count Trevor Threerivers and momentarily as Count-Regent in the days immediately following that man's death and prior to the new Countess of Highrock announcing herself. That Alecto sided with Magaen's succession claim over that of her sister in what he charmingly refers to as 'the trouble with having twins' was considered a big coup for her by outside observers, but privately the pair had been quietly allied for quite some time. Much of the influence Highrock enjoys on the system of nearby riverways crisscrossing the Northern-Oathlands border can be attributed to Alecto's efforts on behalf of his former house. It gives him no satisfaction to see that influence wane in the absence of his nuanced stewardship. Now, Alecto has the prosperity of Glacial Grove to concern himself over. With House Charon inheriting a virtually uninhabitable tower castle, decrepit defensive walls, a crumbling infrastructure, and a withering Prodigal population, the newly conquered holding is bound to keep this consummate worrier up at night.
keep this consummate worrier up at night. +
A love match, rather than a strictly polit …
A love match, rather than a strictly political marriage, brought a Blackram woman to take the name Sanna and move into the Redrain fealty. On paper, Peyton Blackram secured the use of some minor mountain causeway for trade that would extend Sanna's reach through the winter, but outside of the official story everyone knew that the marriage was going to happen or a bastard was going to a stain. So it was that just a week after the vows had been said, Peyton and Benedikt welcomed their baby boy, Corwin, into the world. They said from the start he could scream loud enough to start an avalanche. When it came to his lessons, things involving reading were not high on Corwin's list. Once he learned how to get out of those lessons, usually by sneaking or just not showing up, he tended to go missing at least four times out of ten. He hated being indoors, and the tutors never wanted to be out of doors. It was, really, just a match asking to fail. When it came to going with Benedikt on a hunt, or working with a weaponsmaster, or learning to stalk a beast, that's when Corwin paid attention. The outdoors, the thrill of tracking something, of catching it, gavae him something that made his blood stir. And on the days when he was really on his game, the wind seemed to always be at his front, keeping his scent away from the prey and making his cloak billow dramatically. As he grew, it became clear that Corwin was not going to be learned, merely adeequate. He was, instead, destined for the life of a ranger. He'd spend his days out of doors, leading hunting parties, skirmishing with shavs, tracking warbands to relay back to the armies. And as long as he was outside, he was perfectly fine. Now he's been summoned to Arx and he's about to find out just host much outdoor camping one can do in a city.
much outdoor camping one can do in a city. +
A man of humble birth and family. He alway …
A man of humble birth and family. He always had a fine curiosity in the natural and unnatural around. How the most simple and complex things growing around us all can be used to aid and for intrigue. Much of his craft was learned from his own personal reading along with lengthy testing. His family was encouraging in Terno's studies but they did know know all of his mischievous pondering.
now know all of his mischievous pondering. +
A man who grew up in dire straits, Kador. …
A man who grew up in dire straits, Kador. He did whatever it took to survive, as he did not have much family growing up. All he had was his size to help him. It didn't take long before a band of mercenaries picked him up, helping him on his way to become a warrior for pay. He grew into a very large, strong man, who knew how to hold his own in a fight. For years, he stayed on this path of his, never straying for long.
this path of his, never straying for long. +
A member of a lesser known barony in the M …
A member of a lesser known barony in the Mourning Isles, the barony of House Morewind, it was a surprise for many among the peerage when Duke Trevor Helianthus took the enigmatic noble woman as his wife. The domain seems to have thrived since she joined Helianthus and she -is- a noble woman right? so there's little reason for any concern. Of course, there are whispers that she was never seen in the domain of House Morewind in the decades prior to her marriage. Even if the family do claim her as their own.
n if the family do claim her as their own. +
A member of one of the lesser houses of th …
A member of one of the lesser houses of the Lyceum, Leonora was a sickly young woman. Often bed-ridden and secluded, the noblewoman lived predominantly through books and the vicarious tales of her friends who came to visit on occasion. Yearning for a chance to be a part of the society she so often heard of, she saved all her allowance and paid an old woman -- a traveling alchemist -- in hopes of a miracle cure. The alchemist provided a potion for her, and soon Leonora found her strength increasing. While she never will be fully hale and hearty, the potion she was given gave her a new lease on life. And so Micaela decided to join the lands with those of House Malespero, Leonora came along as well, hoping to make a new life within the capital city of Arx. As for the alchemist who had so helped her? Though she's searched, Leonora has found no sign of the woman.
d, Leonora has found no sign of the woman. +
A member of one of the lesser lines, Vega …
A member of one of the lesser lines, Vega was shown from a young age that if she wanted something better than to be just another princess, she would have to find a way to make it happen. So she went into the study of people. She practiced through trial and error in her younger years, found older girls who knew more and begged, blackmailed, or pulled rank on them to get them to teach her what they knew. As she grew, matured, and learned, she realized the mistakes she was making and starting correcting them. With a sister and two younger brothers, she had plenty of subjects to test her wiles out on. As she got older and her skills refined further, she started putting them to use for her family. Helping negotiate deals, brokering treaties, keeping hard-won peaces... her delicate hand was there, her patient smile suggesting she has all the time in the world. When she reached the age of marriage, Vega began looking for a suitable match. The right House, the right man, the right contract. She went through three courtships early on, none of them ending in marriage. By the time she turned twenty-five, her parents stopped pushing young men at her. But she didn't stop looking. Vega Thrax found her match in Raimon Fidante, just months after her 30th birthday, long after her family had given up hope. While visiting Tor, she met Raimon, sized him up, then requested a courtship period. At the end of three months, a contract was drawn up, and the pair were quietly married in Tor. Newlywed to a man that seems her opposite in every way, Vega and her new husband head for Arx to join the family once more.
head for Arx to join the family once more. +
A middle child among a gang of six sibling …
A middle child among a gang of six siblings, Delfina grew up half-wild, learning stubborn resistance to bullying and bossiness as well as how to charm gifts from adults even before younger, cuter children. The siblings were raised in an environment of benevolent neglect in a small but firmly established noble House in the Lyceum, with a father who attended to the business of the vineyards under the family's control and a mother often abed with a chronic illness. Extended family taught the children as it amused them, some with lessons far too mature for their tender years. Delfina learned discipline only as a teen when an uncle took her under his wing to teach her swordsmanship, finally managing to harness her drive and intensity. She seemed clever enough that he first thought she might make a good military commander, but it was one-on-one where she really came to shine. Under his guidance, she began to learn when to shove and when to smile, when the point of a pen might be more useful than the point of a sword. She came to love puzzles and secrets, in the way information might sometimes be used as a weapon to greater effect than force. She was on the cusp of departing the family villa for a grand adventure, perhaps going to Arx itself, when her great uncle the Count informed her of a political match to be made with a House in the Mourning Isles. No tears or wheedling would change his mind, so it was a stubborn and resentful woman who showed up on the docks of Darkwater Watch, loudly complaining of the damp and the chill. Was she disappointed when she first laid eyes on the lean, tumble-haired antiquarian who was to become her husband? For a few years, they managed to develop what seemed to be a companionable relationship. Delfina spent her free time honing her skill with the sword, becoming a knight sworn to House Darkwater. She took the opportunity to travel on House business, seeking the adventure she had wanted since childhood. Until, that is, the journey she took made her seem to vanish from Arvum entirely. It was years later that she returned to Darkwater Watch, unwilling to speak much about where she had been, but quick to rededicate herself to rebuilding what was destroyed in the Pirate War.
ding what was destroyed in the Pirate War. +
A native of a hamlet outside of Tor, Cato' …
A native of a hamlet outside of Tor, Cato's early life was identical to that of his forefathers for generations: The halcyon existence of a goatherd. A poor but idyllic life was his for some time, until his father perished in a riding accident when he was 16, and his mother died five years later to a pox. With no family and few prospects, Cato sold off the last of the family's assets set off for the city to find work. At 22, he found work as a drover; at 24, he found love, and a wife in the Corsetina family. A few short years later, war found him. The Tor-Southport conflict kicked into high gear, and Cato was among many of the eligible young commoners levied for the troops of the Fidante. The mud on his hands was traded for blood, and Cato found no glory or happiness in combat. Fortunately, he discovered something else: An uncanny knack for gambling and reading eyes at the card table. This skill would stay with him for life; gambling remained a side hustle for him throughout the campaign and after it. At the conclusion of the war, Cato ended his service at the earliest possible opportunity, eager to return home, only to find that his wife had perished in childbirth, along with their unborn child. Widowed, childless, and now out of a job, Cato's fortunes were only improved by profits from war spoils, and his veteran's dispensation. These, he used to return to a life familiar to his old one; at 31, he purchased the beginnings of a goatherd, and worked a spit of land just outside the city. Time and patience brought rewards; for the past two decades, he has tended and expanded his goatherd, and brought up small pools of other livestock as well. The wheels of his progression have been greased considerably, however, by the card table. Huddled over eights and aces, Cato came to rub shoulders with the jacks, queens, and kings of Tor's lower elements, and in place of a second marriage, he became wedded to complex trade networks which shy away from prying eyes, from Arx to Tor and back. It was here that Cato began to shine. After all, when the guards were searching for smugglers, why would they suspect the old guy who sold them their evening mutton? All the better for him; at 53, Cato has already outlived both of his parents, and for all the connections and satisfaction his day and night jobs bring him, he still has no legacy to show for it. Who shall tend to his goats when he passes? Who shall manage his complex finances? To whom shall he teach which guards to bribe and which to blackmail? And most of all, who's gonna look after his dang horse? Cato's made his life by reading eyes at the card table, but the glassy gaze of Arvum is, so far, opaque. And worst of all, the gambler's temptation never fades. There is always more to be won. Perhaps, in his twilight years, it's finally time to double down...?
ears, it's finally time to double down...? +
A near-brother (cousin) to the king of Esw …
A near-brother (cousin) to the king of Eswynd, Haakon grew up on the sea. Being of noble blood among the Abandoned meant being a warrior, and he was raised with callouses on his hands from oars, rigging ropes, and spear hafts. Never able to openly challenge the Thraxian navy, his people were raiders of the reavers, striking any merchant ships or fishermen who fell within their reach, and fleeing from any war fleet. Twice he was part of a battle against Thrax warships; neither could be called a victory. The Darkness in the Deep was known to the Eswynds for many years. At first, Haakon and his kin had been all too willing to accept bloody silver to hunt the Arvani (they did that, anyway) but as the shadows spread and tales of the blood madness trickled out, Eswynd's old allegiance to Marin grew dangerous. When Margot Tyde and her diplomats came to them, offering alliance and protection, backed by the threat of destruction before a united Thraxian fleet, the Eswynds accepted There were noises made about honor and their ancestors in protest, but for such things "the wind does not care." All that mattered was surviving the coming storm. His near-brother the king (now Marquis) married an Arvani woman to seal the alliance and remained in their home island, making heirs. Haakon and his people took their small fighting ships to sea for battle among the Tyde fleet, and did their duty against the Gyre. After the war, Haakon was sent to Arx on Eswynd's behalf, to represent his people in the court of their ancient enemies, now overlords. What could possibly go wrong?
w overlords. What could possibly go wrong? +
A nephew of Duke Vercyn Halfshav through h …
A nephew of Duke Vercyn Halfshav through his mother, Celina, and father from House Redrain, it was fully expected that Otakar's upbringing would be a martial one, battling the tribes of the Shav'arvani under his uncle. And indeed, he fulfilled that expectation with the grim resolve demanded of him, although he took time between his military training to learn much from books both his uncle and mother had sent up to Whitehold. Once he could patrol, he spent time making sorties against the Abandoned on the outskirts of the Everwinter - and then came the battle of Stormwall. Taking to the field with his uncle's forces, the Northern knight acquitted himself bravery, if what he saw there changed his life dramatically. Now, in Arx, he has come to join the Duke's retinue and help battle future enemies to come.
ue and help battle future enemies to come. +
A nephew of the Duke of Telmar, Percephon …
A nephew of the Duke of Telmar, Percephon began his life as a disappointment. As a baby, he was ill often, collicky and hollering. He wasn't expected to survive, but did so anyway, to become a child that was sickly and lacked the bulwark's strength common for the bloodline of the Telmarch. Yet for all his weak lungs and constant sneezing in certain seasons of the Oathlands, he proved an able student to his tutors, and plunged deep into fact hunting. Even as he grew a little older and stronger, he created problems by not being the kind of son his father would want -- or more importantly, the kind of nephew his uncle would find convenient. It wasn't that duty didn't interest him; he felt a strong, strong pull of duty to the realm and to his family. But the fact is, he was a reed in a family of oaks, a willow in a family of mountains. Even when he reached adulthood, he was ill often. When he traveled to the capital, he was sick for a week on arrival, which actually put the kibosh on a potential marriage alliance that had been treated for him, as his family had thought they might be able to marry him out to a Velenosa vassal -- why not, the warmer, lusher climes of the south might be good for him, and it would get him out of their hair, and there are worse houses in the Lyceum than the Fidantes -- but what it left him with was the life of a square peg in a round hole. A noble in the capital, of good bloodline, but still, a fish out of water.
bloodline, but still, a fish out of water. +
A no one born to nobody, that's Verity. Sh …
A no one born to nobody, that's Verity. She was one of many, many children had by farmers who raised feed for the horses bred for noble use in Chevalle. It was a rough and tumble childhood full of hard labor and much mischief, and Verity emerged from it a scrapper with dreams just a little too large to be contained by such humble surroundings. The way to rise was to impress those higher up and so she set out to do just that, through a string of odd jobs that left her with a curious and diverse range of skills that eventually landed her on the career path of Most Eclectic Courtesan in All of Arvum. But once again, her environment proved too stifling. She might be as steadfast and driven as any Valardin-born, and as much a stickler about keeping true to her word and her honor, but she and the stuffiness of better society in the Oathlands parted ways. To Arx she came, expecting to make her fortune. That it seems to be in the midst of deadly crisis is just a bonus, really.
of deadly crisis is just a bonus, really. +
A noble family member of the Ravenseye tri …
A noble family member of the Ravenseye tribe, Anwen was born in the Redrain holdings. She has never forgotten this, nor has she forgotten the Shamanistic origins of her people. Her first love is the sea, and while she prays to Mangata, she respects the ancient traditions of the Path of the Elders as well. Anwen has spent her life near the sea, on the sea, and in it. When spending too much time on land, she grows restless.
too much time on land, she grows restless. +
A noble of a lesser branch of the Igniseri …
A noble of a lesser branch of the Igniseri family, Amieli is the only child begot from the tragic story of Lisa Igniseri, younger sister to Emilisia Igniseri by several minutes. As an adult, Lisa wanted nothing more than to raise a family. Infertility would have been tame--instead, after three consecutive miscarriages, it became clear something was very wrong. Most of the Lyceum simply sighed with relief Lisa was not ruling head and went about their lives. But the lady herself, grief stricken and determined, was nowhere near as content. She turned to midwives, physickers, even alchemists in search of help. Despite reassurances and postulated solutions, the results were far from satisfying. Amieli should have been the youngest of seven; she was the first of one. IN a final twist of pitch irony, Lisa's only successful birth was also the cause of her death. The fate of her father is even less certain. From childhood to young adulthood, Amieli lived an almost nomadic life in the Lyceum, her upbringing distributed across branches of the Igniseri family and close relatives or friends, sometimes even in other houses. She learned to own little, travel light, and learn everything she could while the opportunity was at hand. Connections were many but shallow, and her solace was in those fragments which became permanent: appreciation for proper etiquette; her study of the sword; and even the difference from one place to the next, finding a story here, a poem there, and piecing the world together as best she could. For the displaced lady, the turn to Arx was only natural; yet another patch in her patchwork of homes. Except this time, she could choose where to go--and what better place than the heart, jewel, and crossroads of the Compact?
art, jewel, and crossroads of the Compact? +
A noble of the Deepwood family Zoriah has …
A noble of the Deepwood family Zoriah has a reputation as a young brat, that can back up her threats in an instant. Prone to bitterness and spitting venomous words has made her many rivals and as many friends as well as a few that simply enjoy her hijinks. To gain Zoriah's attention is a double edged sword that often is as much a blessing as a curse.
at often is as much a blessing as a curse. +
A noble son to Elnora Malvici and half-bro …
A noble son to Elnora Malvici and half-brother to Pepper, Santi has not pursued his half-sister's path and has earned himself a name throughout the House as someone to watch. He is a tall, broadshouldered man who had already towered over his friends before he turned nine. Like all Malvici's, he was brought up to fight and do-so with the intent to win. His skill was hard to match and many of the people that trained with him as a boy would follow him everywhere like a small, well-mannered gang. As he got older and it became clear that the family intended to make him an officer, he fought tooth and nail to stay with his fellow soldiers rather than lead them. Reluctantly, the family allowed it and he quickly rose to that of a highly respected Sergeant and instructor. He is both loved and feared for his brazen equality treatment given to new Prodigals and willingness to provide outreach for them - few dare challenge him on it. He has come to Arx to see how the government works and learn, not just from the politics and people, but to gain experience and perhaps find a new way that may interest him. Officially he is here to help advise on the nature of Prodigals, assist in cavalry training, and explore service in the Guards. The latter of these is hoped to potentially break him of his attachment to the commoner soldiers.
f his attachment to the commoner soldiers. +
A once proud and strong leader hailing fro …
A once proud and strong leader hailing from the Everwinter. Bearing the banner of the wolf and broken down by the harsh realities of war. Repeated battles of attrition have taken their toll. The men who fought beside him now long dead. He blames himself for every man lost, though the odds were never in his favour. After his tribe swore allegiance to the crown, he traveled south hoping to open a store in the more populated lands of Arvum in order to get more customers for his small smithing business. His wares aren't great but he charges a fair price for fair work. He now tries to make a living for himself as a simple blacksmith in Whitehold, praying that he never has to fight again. Though in public he claims to be religious, he often doubts that the gods really exist.
e often doubts that the gods really exist. +
A product of Oathlands custom, Adelphie's …
A product of Oathlands custom, Adelphie's story does not deviate far from the ideals held high there. While a penchant for trade and commerce might have just as likely pleased her kin, her appetite for combat proved too great to overlook. There are few memories of her youth beyond the backdrop of the training yards or dining hall, fueling up to get right back out there. Amidst troubles associated with the Great Road, the Adelphie crossed paths with some Knights of Solace and felt compelled by duty and faith to help them in their task. This is how she found herself in Arx, having chaperoned a group of travelers to safety. Well, let's be honest... relative safety.
Well, let's be honest... relative safety. +
A recent arrival to the glittering city of …
A recent arrival to the glittering city of Arx, Brace is but a pebble lost in a quarry filled with gems. Minute details are known of the woman and her origination, the ocher tan of her skin giving clue to a life that began in the desert, unrelenting inked imagery along her body revealing time upon the sea.
long her body revealing time upon the sea. +
A second cousin to Kael Keaton, Rane has e …
A second cousin to Kael Keaton, Rane has ever been focused on his family and fealty. As a young boy, he fought with wooden weapons among friends for fun and instructors for practice. There was only ever a singular focus driven into him by family and instructors: duty. Duty to the Oathlands, his family, and those unable to defend themselves. Idealistic were the teachings to the point that there was room for little else but perfection in training and pure obedience to the tenets of Gloria. Rane married a lovely young woman at the age of eighteen, Lilliana. She carried their first born when a band of shavs captured them in the night and assassinated her in front of him. It was only by luck that the knife found in his own chest did not kill him. Some would call that good luck. For many years, it was the darkest thought in the Keaton's mind. He courted death for some time afterwards, longing for an end to his torment. But it's only recently that someone else had come into his life to lift that grim veil from his eyes.
life to lift that grim veil from his eyes. +
A second son, Cassius was never destined t …
A second son, Cassius was never destined to rule, so his lessons on leadership were taken less seriously than his training to become a Knight. Long hours were spent with the seraph appointed to Stonedeep, arguing the finer points of the Pantheon versus Shamanism. Torn between an ingrained Northern pride and a calling toward the Faith, Cassius looked for signs of what he was meant to do, and he found one in the Knights of Solace. Spending time with the pilgrims being escorted toward Arx, many of them recent converts from shamanism, Cassius found his calling. With his family's blessing, if not their full understanding, Cassius set out for Arx where he could begin his training in earnest. Slow to master the blade but quick to pick up on the nuances of the Faith, Cassius worked hard to overcome prejudice against his Northern roots, the way paved for him somewhat due to his noble origins. Well-versed in navigating the mountainous region of his birth, Cassius was often sent along with more experienced Knights on treks that involved fetching pilgrims from areas closer to the Everwinter. It was one such trek Cassius was on when his group was set upon by a band of Abandoned. On the defensive due to the unarmed faithful accompanying them, several Knights were slain. Leading those remaining alive and injured toward Stonedeep to rest and resupply, Cassius was greeted with the news that his father had disappeared, and that just days prior, the severed fingers of his brother and other relatives had been delivered to the Stonedeep gates. Furious with his father for leaving and with himself for not being at Stonedeep when he could have been of use, Cassius lost himself for a time to alcohol, abandoning the Knights of Solace and leaving his sisters to maintain order in Stonedeep on their own. Weeks passed like this, with Cassius getting into drunken brawls, having blackouts, and waking up with chunks of time missing. Things came to a head when one night in a fit of rage over a Poker game, Cassius wrapped his hands around a man's throat without any true intent, but without his wits about him all the same. When he came to from this particular blackout, he was in the company of the Knights Solace once more. No one offered any information about the night prior and he didn't ask any questions, instead packing his things and getting back to the trail, redoubling his focus on bringing those who desire the comfort of the true Faith to Arx.
sire the comfort of the true Faith to Arx. +
A sharp wit and a tactful tongue can carry …
A sharp wit and a tactful tongue can carry a young man far in this world, given the right encouragement and resources. Atreyan was blessed to find both from birth. While not of the finest blood, his parents had means and desire to see themselves elevated in time. His father was an able-bodied man of the Iron Guard, and his mother put hand to gem, selling fine jewelry to nobility. Through their professions, they saw the privileges of the nobility in all things, and wished for their son to be better positioned to move within greater circles. To that end, they put their resources to education and betterment of the boy. He took to words, etiquette, and new knowledge with vigor- taking great joy in every sentence he constructed. Words yielded to him in a way that nothing else ever would, and before long he was surpassing his tutors. From there, it was a matter of what paths would offer him the greatest opportunities- and to further his abilities he was sent forth to the City-States of the Lyceum in the midst of his adolescence. Where a more militant boy might squire and aide to a warring man, he worked briskly in the trades of courtly stewardship, learning the proper way to guide a book and to assist lowly Lords with their correspondences. Many a letter was written in his hand, and by his mind, with another name attached. The intrigues of the Lyceum also bred in him a healthy paranoia for unsigned gifts, and a respect for the viciousness of the nobility. He was ever the respectful servant, and worked as honorably as anyone within the Lyceum may. By the time of his return to Arx, his sharply-educated mind had been honed by the practical rigors of his vocation. Within Arx, Atreyan found his greatest challenges being the de jure colliding with the de facto. Outside of the Compact, the laws of the realm are as varied as its people, and exceptions grow like weeds to every writ. Over the last few years, he's worked as a steward for a variety of well-off merchant families- ensuring that their trades adhered to the laws of the land, and doing what he could to give them an edge over their competition.
give them an edge over their competition. +
A shav born into the cruelty tribal warfar …
A shav born into the cruelty tribal warfare. When his tribe came under attack Lothair's family attempted to escape but they were captured and turned into slaves. Spending his childhood as a slave doing manual labor. Lothair was given the chance at freedom by fleeing after Brand had attacked the tribe that was enslaving him. Running as fast as he could away from the conflict, Lothair came in contact with some travelling merchants and pleaded with that he would pledge himself to the Compact if they allowed him to live. When the merchants returned to Arx, Lothair pledged himself to the compact and did away with his past, giving up on shamanism and embracing the Pantheon. Lothair was gifted with clothes and weapons, left to be a free man.
lothes and weapons, left to be a free man. +
A shav scout discovered baby Ilira abandon …
A shav scout discovered baby Ilira abandoned, well-swaddled and tucked against the base of a tree. She was carried home with him, to a small tribal village by the coast. Situated within a forestal patch on the southernmost island of the Saffron Chain, the people thrived through nature, their structures built from and on the boughs. At campfire that night, the infant was presented, and elders agreed to adopt her as the tribe's own, if a search for parentage came to nothing. In the next days, speculation on her origins buzzed: the product of a broken fidelity contract? A change of mind? Perhaps she was lost, or stolen? Meanwhile, word of her was spread without answer; none knew of or claimed the child. Thus, at one of their nightly fires, a call was made to name her as their own. Ilira bloomed into an absolute ball of energy, under the care of Healers Lilia and Ahria Starling. She learned quick, became a deft hand at the bedside of the sick, and developed repute for her wit and sweetness. Her affinity for animals drew rebuke when once, in the village's makeshift library, she gathered a menagerie of bunny, mouse, and chipmunk to read with her. It baffled grownups how she managed to catch them, and more so when she began to teach other children. Her other keen talent, as evinced at each campfire, was her musical inclination. She had babbled along to the villagers songs before she could speak, and at four-years-old, stole a lute from an elder to strum. Her voice always carried a force and soul, powerful beyond her age, and her way with words translated to clever lyricism. She picked up a myriad of instruments--flute, lyre, fiddle--but lute became her favored. That fire in her music reflected throughout her personality, in her vivacious demeanor, the quirk and whimsy of her manner, and her propensity for goofy shenanigans. Throughout her childhood, Ilira grew curiouser of references to the world beyond the forest, to a silken city, to the Pravus, the Thrax. Upon request, she was told of the Thrax Dynasty and their sovereignty over the Saffron, of Pravus wiles and custom, of a luxurious city called Setarco that dripped with silk and scandal. She wanted to go. Thus, when a pair of traders mentioned a trip to Setarco that would fall close to her tenth name-day, she requested that she might accompany them and potentially linger there for a while. When she arrived, the city intoxicated her in color, fragrance, chic, and culture alien to her. At a garden party, her mischief drew the attention of the Radiant of the Whispers. Ilira expressed her love of art, music, and described her roots, which endeared the Whisper, who offered to take her in as a protege. Interspersed with visits to her village, the following three years refined Ilira's every grace and talent. Her Radiant mentor trained her to weave and sew fine materials, set her hands on new instruments, and supplied her with a range of books, as well as lessons in etiquette and finesse. On spare days, also, Ilira would join the sailors on the docks and learn of the boats and the sea. It all mesmerized her. After a while, she began to catch eyes and attentions with her ability, and as she grew, her budding beauty. She contrasted those around her with her delicately pale skin and wild dark hair, but worth more remark was the way her ears curved to fine points, the tilt of her eyes and gold within the blue. Her beauty struck, strange and increasingly luminous. On her thirteenth name-day, she returned to her village in the forest and remained for the next few years, though a restlessness built in her. She would go on explorations by herself, often for days at a time. While as spirited as before, she developed a reserve, and many suspected there to be a paramour she kept to herself. At 16, she decided to act upon her desires, and obtained her own sailboat. She said she would return after a few months, and wished warm farewells to her tribe with one last song around the campfire. She never did. Until now, Ilira has been away and seems somewhat reticent to speak on all those years. She is different, keened and refined by her experiences, with a competence in combat unafforded by her upbringing. Despite this, there is a warmth and deep joy evident in her return, and she faces Arx with fresh intentions and two swords at her back.
esh intentions and two swords at her back. +
A sickly child from the Lowers who nobody …
A sickly child from the Lowers who nobody much noticed for his first ten or twelve years. Parents dead, or dusted? Fostered into a family? Something like that. Too week to grow into a proper earner, but a disgraced clerk, charlatan, or addict--or all of the above--took pity on the clever, often-bedridden boy and taught him. Maybe from kindness--maybe hoping for a better income from an educated Elisha. In any case, the boy took refuge in the written word more than the spoken one. Though when he does talk, he talks fancy, as educated as a silk--'uppity little shit,' the neighbors mutter, with more than a hint of pride. He makes the odd coin working as an unofficial scribe in the rare case that someone nearby needs reading or writing done, as he is extremely literate. Elisha is known to tell fantastical stories to his neighbors, sometimes in exchange for a bite to eat, tales which the kids occasionally spread throughout the Lowers. He's also known to beg from the silks if he gets hungry enough.
g from the silks if he gets hungry enough. +
A strong sense of pride and honor was inst …
A strong sense of pride and honor was instilled into Konstantine from a young age, coming from the Harrow family. The once-noble families fall has not weakened the wills of its future generations, however, as Konstantine inspired to achieve great things from a young age, constantly pushing himself to new heights. His strong sense of morales naturally lead him to the Templars. This new life came with many obstacles, though Konstantine met each one with stubborn dedication.
ine met each one with stubborn dedication. +
A sunny and precocious young woman of a Le …
A sunny and precocious young woman of a Leary branch, Asphodel could be found wherever there was merriment. A roadside inn at harvest-time was such a place one evening, with Asphodel laughing among and enjoying the company of common folk. All shared song, drink and warm jests. Asphodel, always sharp-tongued but kind enough with it, made a jape about a man's fashion, setting the room to laughter. Most would laugh it off. But some innocent mockeries cut more deeply than the dealer could ever expect, and the hearts of men can be both bitterly vengeful and shockingly explosive. Asphodel had visited the inn without a guard. Foolish. Outside, as the night's festivities waned, the mocked man pulled Asphodel from the palfrey she'd mounted to depart, threw her to the dirt, and buried a hand-axe in her face with a choice word shouted. He would have struck again, had a wayfaring Knight of Solace not been stepping from the inn just then. The knight arrested a second axe stroke and saved Asphodel from death, but not from a lightning bolt of shattering pain, her darkest year to come, and a life forever changed. All due to a thoughtless joke. She awoke days later. Medicine cured the infection, but could not make her whole. Ahead lay a year of shadows in a shut room, each day a series of objects thrown in anger, curses, desperate prayers, wailing and sobs with enough pain to drive the servants from hearing. But after months of anguish came an equilibrium of silence. Books and a quill saved her from worse. In solitude, she exhausted the library, as servants pleased to see her occupied brought tomes to her room on request. She devoured history, legend, poetry, philosophy and fiction. Unsatisfied, she began to add her own work, but given her limited experience, mustered only critiques of certain dated historians and poets. Foremost of her learning was that she had so much more to learn, and that one library could not satisfy. She needed more to read, and more to write. Where to find it? She'd read of Arx. With a year passed, she at last left her room, more pale than before, more inquisitive, and altogether changed, for the city.
ive, and altogether changed, for the city. +
A true child of the north, Brianna has alw …
A true child of the north, Brianna has always wanted more. She's proud of everything about her heritage, taking particular pride in her family House Halfshav winning glory for House Redrain and laying low the worst elements of the Abandoned in the North. Despite that pride, she yearns to see more, and she grew up of tales among northern nobility about the wild customs and fashions of the south and the pageantry of the court of Arx. When she was finally old enough to accompany her father south to court, it seemed to be all she had ever dreamed, delighting in all she found and even meeting the king, becoming King Alaric IV's frequent companion. Shortly after the king's marriage, she was forced to return to the north, but has since returned after the tragedy of the King's Rest. Still bright and vivacious, she also has a newfound determination and intensity about her, the tragedy of recent events with the coma of the king and deaths of so many others weighing heavily upon her mind.
any others weighing heavily upon her mind. +
A wanderer, Farmhand, Traveling companion of a minstrel, and village midwife for a time. Can ride well and is a decent shot with a bow and arrow, oddly enough, but her main talent is in persuasion and a knack for planning. +
A woman between worlds, Khalana dances the …
A woman between worlds, Khalana dances the fine line between House Crovane's wild Abadoned roots and the 'social refinement' she was taught when sent off to Farhaven as a child to learn a thing or two. Spending those few years along Freja Redrain left an impression and the pair were always off in the wilds, causing trouble, or getting into anything and everything they shouldn't just for the thrill of it. The childhood pasttime grew into something of an obsession for Khalana; even after she traveled back to her own ancestral home she found herself always seized by the need to go looking, searching for answers when others had given up ages ago. Now something of an 'Investigator Extraordinaire', the young woman finds her calling in Arx and while she is far more comfortable in the wilds of her home, she'll laugh in the face of any of the court's challenges with that infamous, untamed Crovane pride.
with that infamous, untamed Crovane pride. +
A woman not made for courtly graces, Princ …
A woman not made for courtly graces, Princess Freja Redrain has always felt at home in the wilds past Farhaven, prowling the wilds with a talent few can match. While many in House Redrain train for martial prowess, most of those soldiers become knights or commanders, as those of royal blood stand for the leadership for the House and rally all the northlands among them. Princess Freja pursued an entirely different calling. Something about Aunt Drea's teachings on shamanism and the old ways of the Northlands resonated deeply with the young woman, as she was raised on stories of Valeria and other women of cunning and strength and how they survived in the deep wilds. She started to train as a scout, an occupation far more frequent with commoners due to its immense dangers, and the bold and utterly fearless woman has showed little regrets of her choice. On more than once, she's led small, highly capable teams of Redrain soldiers patrolling the deep places where the shav forces hide, and leading nimble forces in dangerous games of cat and mouse agaisnt other stalkers in the wilds. As the daughter of Torrud Redrain, the former Sword of Farhaven and champion of the house, and sister to the current one, a degree of courage is expected from her. But the wild woman takes the fearlessness to a degree that catches enemies of House Redrain offguard, and is utterly relentless in seeing the North is safe and respected.
in seeing the North is safe and respected. +
A young Grayson Prince who has come from B …
A young Grayson Prince who has come from Bastion. While he has spent most of his time in Bastion, that doesn't mean he is not aware of the changes happening all around Arvum. He is. Or at least as far as the recent news. It took a while for him to convince his Bastion bound family that he was better off helping the Compact. Specifically since he has dedicated most of his life being a dedicated scout, tracker... A ranger if you will. He figured he could lend his aid, whatever aid that was, to the main family. Lucky for him, his family approved. With their blessing he has come to Arx, intent on defending it after news had spread about the compact's wars and struggles. John has always respected his family and as such he is a proud man of what his family name means. It is this pride that has led him to believe that, just as the Grayson claims none other greater then, he must do everything in his power to make sure House Grayson remains being the greatest of all. And he will protect it from any threats. Even if those come from within Arx itself.
Even if those come from within Arx itself. +
A young princess flowering in a well-tende …
A young princess flowering in a well-tended garden, Keely is cursed by little more dire than a preponderance of sisters. Well-educated in the palatial family estate at Bastion, Keely grew up a wistful child, dreaming of a different kind of _more_ than the kind that might populate the dreams of those without her advantages. A quiet life is not a Grayson direction, and Keely always found some of her more adventuresome siblings honestly more worrying than not. When her older sisters removed to Arx to make their way in a world that embraced their heritage, Keely stayed home, studying with the seraph of Bastion and learning about different dances and the history of her House, all the while her elder sister, Liara, rose to the challenge that House Grayson had to offer her and accepted the mantle of High Lady from His Majesty. When Keely set forth for Arx, it was as a sheltered, privileged girl, hoping to reach for womanhood in a capital city full of the shades of reality that she never really saw before beyond her garden walls. She wishes to grow into the kind of powerful woman who dominates a dance floor, a courtier of Renown and Poise. Up until now, she has not been great at Poise. A young girl with powerful and diverse sisters, she has always been shadowed by their accomplishments, but one day, perhaps she shall grow into something fantastic in her own right.
into something fantastic in her own right. +
A young princess flowering in a well-tende …
A young princess flowering in a well-tended garden, Keely's childhood was cursed by little more dire than a preponderance of sisters. Well-educated in the palatial family estate at Bastion, Keely grew up a wistful child, dreaming of a different kind of -more- than the kind that might populate the dreams of those without her advantages. A quiet life is not a Grayson direction, and Keely always found her more adventuresome siblings honestly more worrying than not. When her older sisters removed to Arx to make their way in a world that embraced their heritage, Keely stayed home, studying with the seraph of Bastion and learning about different dances and the history of her House, all the while her elder sister, Liara, rose to the challenge that House Grayson had to offer her and accepted the mantle of High Lady from His Majesty. When Keely set forth for Arx, it was as a sheltered, privileged girl, hoping to reach for womanhood in a capital city full of the shades of reality that she never really saw before beyond her garden walls. She wished to grow into the kind of powerful woman who dominates a dance floor, a courtier of Renown and Poise. A young woman with powerful and diverse sisters, she had always felt shadowed by their prolific and profound accomplishments. However, since her arrival to the capital, Keely has undergone remarkable growth, embracing the tapestry of the city and its inhabitants. Deep wells of empathy have been unearthed within her, allowing her to forge unbreakable bonds with the diverse souls she encounters, and her unwavering compassion has become her trademark. Now, united in matrimony with Oathlander Marquis Kael Keaton, Keely stands as the Marquessa-Consort of Oakhaven, embarking on a new adventure by her husband's side. Together, they lead and protect their people, embracing the challenges and joys that come with their noble duty. Keely's journey of growth and self-discovery is far from over, as she continues to learn, evolve, and unravel the depths of her own potential in the ever-unfolding world at her feet.
l in the ever-unfolding world at her feet. +
A young woman of new Imperial province Ton …
A young woman of new Imperial province Tongdjiyi, purportedly half-elven, if not, in fact, a byblow of the Horned Traitor. Haunted by abyssal whispers encouraging her to let go of her name and her loyalties to her people, she accepted a writ of the Undying Empire. She is grateful for the protection, and the silence in her mind. She travels the province and beyond, searching for other of half-elven blood who might be vulnerable to the influence of the Abyss. She's also training to be an adept. Word is.
e's also training to be an adept. Word is. +
A younger daughter of a lesser line out of …
A younger daughter of a lesser line out of Giant's Reach, Flora was called, young, to the Pantheon, in a holding that where shamanism was predominant. It wasn't that Flora felt any need to neglect the spirits particularly, but somehow she knew, Knew, with a whole heart, very young, that the gods were real, were necessary, were critical to her existence. Of course-- especially young children in an area of the North that could be scrappy, well, she ended up in a lot of ... scrappy little fights. Young and fierce, she drew the attention of a knight who was there with an entourage of Oathlanders who were seeking to potentially court one of the Marquis's family for a marriage alliance, and somehow, what with one thing and another, it was agreed that she would squire for him. Flora worked very hard as a squire, in service to Gloria and the Sentinel. It was the culmination of her life's work and her life's faith when she finally was sworn a knight before the Grandmaster of the Templars. She is still young and new to this career, but loves it with the fullness of her heart.
t loves it with the fullness of her heart. +
A younger son of a branch off the main lin …
A younger son of a branch off the main line of the Grayhope family, Aureth was an odd child: quickfingered and resourceful, the middle class child of an artisan with questionable ties, his most frequent punishments were from wandering away from the family and being a focused observer of the human animal. Apprenticed early to an older woman who decided his powers of observation might be useful, she taught him to tell fortunes. When she grew too old to patter convincingly, he eventually inherited some of her customers and made a name for himself as a predictor, a card player and a source of sensible advice to those who knew to ask the right question. Unlucky in love (or resistant to social pressure), he claims he just hasn't met the right girl.
claims he just hasn't met the right girl. +
Aahana is the youngest sibling of Ruslan V …
Aahana is the youngest sibling of Ruslan Volkov which gives her the title of baby sister. Perhaps her being the youngest out of so many is what makes her shy to new people at first, tending to always prefer familiarity to something new or unusual. She has really been like that since she was old enough to crawl. Most consider her shy but in truth she likes to observe before acting upon things. As she grew up one of only two woman in the family she tended to be fiercely protected by her brothers and elder sister. This just aided in her quiet observing all the time. Even when they would occasionally go into town she was study over the nobles and watch their interactions more than anything else. And as she aged, she would eavesdrop upon lessons in economics and diplomacy. Often she would masquerade as a noble to learn what little etiquette she could before she would be found out and having to vanish. When Ruslan bent the knee, there was a lot of unrest among the tribe. Some of the family liked it, some didn't. Aahana was more excited than the others in truth though she did her best to hide it. And now that her eldest brother has sworn their family to the fealty of Fidante and in turn Velenosa, she is determined to try and keep her family out of trouble while they all adjust to the new ways of Arx. No more needing to pretend.
w ways of Arx. No more needing to pretend. +
Aahana is the youngest sibling of Ruslan V …
Aahana is the youngest sibling of Ruslan Volkov which gives her the title of baby sister. Perhaps her being the youngest out of so many is what makes her shy to new people at first, tending to always prefer familiarity to something new or unusual. She has really been like that since she was old enough to crawl. Most consider her shy but in truth she likes to observe before acting upon things. As she grew up one of only two woman in the family she tended to be fiercely protected by her brothers and elder sister. This just aided in her quiet observing all the time. Even when they would occasionally go into town she was study over the nobles and watch their interactions more than anything else. And as she aged, she would eavesdrop upon lessons in economics and diplomacy. Often she would masquerade as a noble to learn what little etiquette she could before she would be found out and having to vanish. When Ruslan bent the knee, there was a lot of unrest among the tribe. Some of the family liked it, some didn't. Aahana was more excited than the others in truth though she did her best to hide it. And now that her eldest brother has sworn their family to the fealty of Fidante and in turn Velenosa, she is determined to try and keep her family out of trouble while they all adjust to the new ways of Arx. No more needing to pretend. During her time within Arx she made many a friend and ally. Then there was Domonico, there was something about him that caused her to become smitten, so smitten she sworn off shamanism and worked diligently to become a token prodigal. Her work paid off as when she married him to become Lady Aahana Malvici, it was deemed true. There the birth of their precious daughter Palania on the tenth of April in 1011. Then the unthinkable happened when she was travelling to visit her family with the baby. They disppeared just has the massacare of Volkov Woods happened. For those two years, it was though that both were dead. However the unthinkable happened. Aahana and baby Palania returned to arx unsathed and unaged on the sixteenth of March 1014 AR. She is still playing catch up but intends to help the now Count Domonico and the isles of Cyrto Major with all her being.
e isles of Cyrto Major with all her being. +
Abbas's mother, Princess Marjory Thrax, wa …
Abbas's mother, Princess Marjory Thrax, was no proper Thraxian woman in the eyes of Donrai Thrax. With far too much interest in sailing, Princess Marjory defied her father by accompanying a daring expedition to sail east to the rarely contacted continent of Eurus on a perilous voyage. Worse in the eyes of his grandfather, not only did Marjory have the temerity to succeed, but she returned with a husband, married without permission of her family, to the exiled Prince Asad of Petrioch, a royal fleeing a lost war of one of the distant Dune Kingdoms of Eurus. Prince Donrai Thrax had little choice but to recognize the marriage of the royals as Marjory was already with child, but it proved short lived- Prince Asad was found complicit in the plotting of the Tyde Rebellion and was executed by House Thrax, and Princess Marjory Thrax was all but exiled, married off to a Lord of House Pravus and unwelcome to the family. This provided the Thraxian child with a difficult life ahead where his mother and father were considered traitors to Thrax. Abbas Thrax dreamed of a life of reaving to prove himself true to Thrax and at a young age the man took to battles and studies. His focus was complete and nothing else even remotely entertained him as a child that was not anointed in violence and his grandfather (Donrai Thrax) encouraged and aided in molding the man into a callous butcher. Abbas barely related to other young children nor did he possess friends. His was a singular desire to rise and lead the Thraxian fleet into glory and to earn a proper Thraxian heroes death. Individual fights quickly bored the mind of Abbas. And he began to listen and put himself in a position to learn of fighting at a higher level. There was not enough glory in hand-to-hand slaughter; tactics and strategy became his religion. Abbas lied about becoming a man in order to fill his urge to oar and sail upon the endless Salt. This led to his early years as a reaver being rough and he danced with death being overpowered, outmatched, yet he rapidly became addicted to the spilling of life and the riches of taking from the sea what you wanted. The young man was ruthless and fate saw him survive his first few overmatched raids; where the physically weaker Abyss was forced to kill against the odds. Abbas was hardened to the "Salt Life" early to the life of taking captives and using them as thralls. He possessed a strange affinity for understanding currents and sailing in an uncanny way. The Thraxian quickly distinguished himself and became a very young (perhaps one of the youngest) captain as a teenager. Abbas began to build a reputation early on. He would systematically target islands and begin to kill the elderly and snuff out the wisdom to make future raids easier. As the younger generations aged absent the wisdom of their more wise leaders he began to wear down the defenses. His brutality earned him a fierce reputation and soon after a couple of years many village and settlements would simply pay tribute to avoid the Thraxian wrath. Abbas fame and renown began to grow and the Thraxian was afforded more authority and allowed to operate autonomously. When Abbas was called to Arx two years ago he arrived with little experience but that of reaving and killing. It was a rough adjustment for the Prince but soon circumstances found him rising quickly in the ranks of the military. Abbas found himself upon the death of Donrai in a position to support the new Thraxian High Lord; Victus. Victus anointed Abbas as Warlord and gave him control of the Thraxian military. Abbas at the age of twenty-four is likely the youngest Warlord in living memory to lead the Thraxian war machine. Abbas ruthlessly secured Victus' power and was brutal in his tactics once more. Those who spoke against the new High Lord or loyal to Donrai were flayed alive. The military was used to brutally stop any insurrection and Abbas earned the title of the Bastard's Butcher. A campaign against the abandoned tribes on the periphery of the Gyre that threatens Thrax and the compact has thrust Abbas into heavy controversy. Abbas purposefully spread disease and plague amongst the abandoned populace to quickly end the fighting to those who did not bend the knee. The body count was unheard of as he systematically depopulated the islands of abandoned and quickly put an end to a prolonged war. This met with outcry and the hatred of many in Arvum, as the genocidal tactics were seen by the vast majority of the Compact as dishonorable and an offense to the goddess Gloria. During the siege of Arx Abbas was able to return the fleet to join the war due to his questionable strategy. He led the fleet from shore to rush through; relieving the Seawatch Gate and filling a hole blown in the wall of Arx where the Bringers sought to put an end to the Compact. With the help of the Redrain the Warlord was able to hold the wall at a great cost of life, winning that part of the battle. Though he distinguished himself well, he remains an extremely controversial figure- respected in the Isles, admired by many who hate shavs with geonocidal fury, but viewed as murderous and dangerous by most.
viewed as murderous and dangerous by most. +
Abigail's family is well known to some, at …
Abigail's family is well known to some, at least the name. Her father, Treveus, is Uncle to Marquessa Demura Lyonesse, and his wife Isabella married into the family. While she may have not be so called 'noble' before her marriage her family was not the normal or complete commoner either, just a lower rank. Abigail's father was and still is a most trusted and well known Knight for his family name, though age has started to catch up to him and that is the only thing possibly slowing him down. Her mother was a archer of high skill and quality, her knowledge with herbs was also high as her family was well know in the art of herbal healing. Isabella trained and taught her daughters to carry on the skills she had taught and to never forget them. Abigail has four siblings all sisters, she being the youngest of the bunch. Sundari and Idrissa are her elder twins sisters, and then there is Roselin and Jaelynn. When it comes to handling a bow Abigail is on par with her mother having picked up the skill rather easy. During a hunting trip, Abigail's mother was killed and many felt it was staged but others have said the woman took on too much, thus being cut down by the prey she was tracking. Abigail and Roselin were with her at the time and while her daughters have called for something to be done it is still being overlooked. Since this has happened Abigail was sent to stay with her cousin Demura Lyonesse by her father and Roselin is set to join her in the coming months. Abigail is attempting to keep an open mind and move on but it is hard with she knows something has happened to her family and she wants answers.
pened to her family and she wants answers. +
Adalbern was born in the hills surrounding …
Adalbern was born in the hills surrounding Bonespire, just south of the Everwinter to a warrior of the Stahlben clan, and a woman he'd taken to wife from the Everwinter Shav. Sadly, he never knew his mother as she died shortly after, his birth a difficult one. His father raised the boy as best he could, but he was often away and unable give the proper attention necessary for a young troublemaker. The boy spent much of his youth exploring the crags and tundra near his home, learning the ways of the mountains and the frozen north; largely unsupervised and turning into quite the little savage until his father decided he was an of an age to start training with the other young warriors-to-be of the clan. As he started spending more time amongst the others of his people, he met the girl who would grow to be his wife, Skada. Once the two were of age, they soon married and it wasn't long before a little one was on the way. It wasn't meant to last, however. Shortly after the birth of their daughter, Vigga, the Undying and their servants spilled forth from the Everwinter. Skada was lost during the first rush of the horde, though Vigga managed to escape into the mountain stronghold that her father would help to defend. A part of Adalbern seemed lost, and he flung himself into the battles of his clan even more fervently than before, leaving Vigga to his wife's parents at the time. When Magnus bent the knee to Sanna, Adalbern decided to uproot himself and Vigga from the Bonespire and the memories it held, and now they seek a new life in Arx and the Compact.
ey seek a new life in Arx and the Compact. +
Adalyn was the one child born of the marri …
Adalyn was the one child born of the marriage between Sir Norwood Clement and his late wife. She was treasured and adored by her father and didn't lack for love in the slightest in those regards. An argument could be made that he shouldn't have gone carting her around to /quite/ so many of his knightly duties however. She spent hours watching him train Jael and Klaus Laurent, picking up bits and pieces of swordsmanship from observation alone. Yet he was reluctant to give his own daughter the same instruction, despite her pleas. She was too young! It was too soon! He didn't want her learning the blade .But Adalyn would have her own way about this. Because all that adoration and time spent indulging her, it had made her a little spoiled and all too stubborn. So at ten years old, she began 'training' on her own. With a heavy stick and some pots worn for helmets she sparred against one of the other children in Artshall. It was all going fine until she brained him nice and good and knocked him unconscious. Thankfully, he was fine. But poor Norwood was forced to admit that wasn't going to be able to deter her from her wishes, so he might as well train her. Before someone /really/ got hurt. Over time, she has grown into quite the talented warrior. She has more swish and swagger than her father might care for and her showmanship truly grates on his nerves sometimes. She often makes grandiose remarks of how she'll take that sword from him someday! Before laughing brightly and jumping into a tale of her latest escapade. And there are many, many escapades. Her current plot to cause her family distress has been to runaway from the Oathlands and appear in Arx, unprompted. She's decided she wants to join the Champions Guild! And that mercenary group, but no, not the one run by Duke Telmar's son! The one by that Lycene Baron! The Valorous Few! He seems like fun.
aron! The Valorous Few! He seems like fun. +
Adelais was born out of wedlock, the produ …
Adelais was born out of wedlock, the product of a young dalliance between a merchant-prince and a middling serving girl. Fortunately for her, she (and her mother) were set up by her father's family in a town near the family's sprawling estate once they realized what their reckless son had done. The family resisted the pressure for marriage, but they did their best to accept her and her mother into their family - albeit still beyond that inner ring. Still, she had a decent education and a decent life growing up, living in relative comfort with her mother and provided for by an extended family that she didn't quite understand until she grew older. As she grew, she felt awkward and a touch out of place, especially when her father married and had another child: a younger half-sister named Mateline, who stood to inherit. Their relationship wasn't always good, but Adelais did her best to be a decent elder sister. However, determined that she wasn't going to rely solely on the largesse of her extended family, she left home once she came of age to seek her fortune as a soldier. She spent five or six years of her life training with the blade and working as a sellsword, despite her mother's worries over her new station in life.In a way, it helped her purge her private demons and she learned a great deal about the uglier side of the world and the power of violence. Adelais eventually returned to her extended family when she heard that her father was dying of a wasting disease and despite her misgivings, found that she couldn't simply leave her younger half-sister to pick up the pieces by herself. Since then, she's essentially bulled her way back into the family business ,serving as a bodyguard and the right-hand woman for Mateline, dealing with some of the more unsavory aspects of the business and arranging protection for their business interests whenever necessary. If she has anything to say about it, they'll prosper.
anything to say about it, they'll prosper. +
Adelie Pravus, second wife of Ahern Halfsh …
Adelie Pravus, second wife of Ahern Halfshav, was unhappy in Whitehold from the moment she arrived following her marriage to the widowed lord. Khanne and Arik were never really hers and this world was cold and miserable. It was likely that there would have been a divorce, but then Aine arrived in a screaming bundle on one rare, gloriously warm day in the far north reaches. And Adelie had something of her own, which Aine was raised to be. She was not raised with or like her half-siblings, allowed to form their own paths in the wilds, especially after Ahern's death. She was raised as a Southern lady, her mother's own little audience just as trapped as Adelie felt but in a different way. The call of her Northern blood was a thing to be ignored as she studied and worked on her wits and charm. It's only as Khanne rises that Aine has found an escape. She has been allowed to come to Arx, to see the city for the first time, and notable without her mother in attendance. There's hardly a party, or event in the bustling capital that Aine isn't attending. If she wants to make it somewhere in this world, she knows that she's going to make the right connections. Sister of a Duchess is not all that she wishes to be.
Duchess is not all that she wishes to be. +
Adrian avoided influence of his avid famil …
Adrian avoided influence of his avid family. His father worked as a carpenter and was widely social and his mother worked in an inn and had the same effect. He himself, however, avoided such and focused on a sort of self study, whatever he could get with what little he had from both of his parents. This sort of thing continued on until he decided to stay on his own.
ed on until he decided to stay on his own. +
Adriel was raised, along with his twin sis …
Adriel was raised, along with his twin sister and best friend, Korka, by parents whose first loyalty was to the Telmars, and that loyalty is generational. But while his twin sister was constantly sticking her nose in things and getting into trouble, Adriel toed the line: a conscientious, well-behaved child, who was only very rarely drawn into hijinx past Korka’s ability to talk them both out of it. An able and attentive listener, he learned quickly at his lessons and served as soon as he was old enough in the forces of his lords’ retainers, learning a spear and shield along with the rules and laws of the regiment.
g with the rules and laws of the regiment. +
Adventure, of one sort or another, has alw …
Adventure, of one sort or another, has always been in Neilda's blood. Though humble for nobility, her family comes from a long line of warriors and knights, and she grew up on stories of their grand adventures and courageous deeds. She also grew up on stories of those from her family who strayed from the warrior path, and got into exploration. Her uncle Carmello told her about how he got stuck in a cave on an island for several months, surviving only on the edible mosses and mushrooms inside, and then before he fuond his way out he found the buried treasure of a pirate. Inside that treasure he found an tiny stone that glowed that made him feel stronger for touching it, along with a journal that suggested the stone might have other unusual properties. He's long since lost the stone and the journal, and often grumbles about having his ship boarded by pirates and how they stole it back from him. What was the stone? Why did it glow? And, more importantly, why was it stolen back from him? Of course, the family passed his stories about the stone and the theft of it off as tall tales and superstition. Stones don't just glow. But, her uncle hasn't stopped thinking about it, and neither has Neilda. So no one was really surprised when a 10 year old Neilda one day declared that she was going to be an explorer herself, obsessed with the story of the stone, and other stories like it she's discovered since the tale her uncle told her. She put everything she had into learning how to be the best and brightest adventurer she could be, and while this may have dismayed some, hoping for another fighter in the family, no one ever tried to quell her adventurous spirit. She would often bug her brother Estaban, or her cousin Kima, begging them until they'd give in and teach her the skills she needed to survive. She thrived under their training, and as soon as she was old enough and able, she set off on the first boat she could to Arx where she heard about the Society of Explorers in Arx. She's been busy doing expeditions and missions for them for the last year and a half, and has finally decided to stop and take a bit of a break and check on how her family is doing.
reak and check on how her family is doing. +
Aela grew up invisible as the youngest of …
Aela grew up invisible as the youngest of 3 children. Her sister was adored by all for her other-worldly beauty while her brother was praised as a scholarly genius from a young age. Aela was, indeed, smart and beautiful, but in the eyes of her parents, she paled greatly to her siblings. Neither a disappoint or a child to pay attention to, Aela grew up mostly isolated from her busy siblings and with generally anything she needed, except the love from her parents. During her lonely childhood, she would often sneak out and explore the city and make friends with the unknowing commoner children. From them, she learned the cunning ways of the streets, the beauty of music, and the fun of adventures.
eauty of music, and the fun of adventures. +
Aelius was born into a minor branch of the …
Aelius was born into a minor branch of the Mercier family, to traditional scions who were interested in keeping the family business on wedding wines alive and well. His father, Vibius, was a dedicated merchant, often assisting to the former head of household in meetings and contacting relevant people to the trade deals. However, a young Aelius wasn't meeting up to the expectations of his father, preferring to spend his time studying scholary matters and painting, instead of learning the family business. Naive as he was, Aelius spent most of his time daydreaming of buildings he would create, tall creations that would impress The Pantheon themselves and he planned to dedicate such buildings to them. It was only when his father suffered a severe disease that Aelius realised his role in the family, he would spend his days trying to learn as much as he could from his dying father, working to fill up his boots and setting his dreams aside, at least for now, so he could help the cause of the family. Vibius passed away around Aelius' 27th Summer and Aelius decided it was time to put his ideas forward and advance the family business to a next level.
vance the family business to a next level. +
Aery's been an orphan from a young age and has as such never been able to learn many good skills. Despite all of this, she's remained a positive outlook on life, somehow managing to stick to living through odd ends here and there. +
Aethan, the oldest of three brothers, has …
Aethan, the oldest of three brothers, has always felt the oldest child's weight of responsibility, and it only got heavier with time. He went to sea at sixteen, followed soon by his brother Porter, and then by nine year old Ian. Not yet twenty, he found himself wearing the hats of brother, of father, teacher, and guardian. He drove himself hard, taught his brothers to do the same, and by the time they'd graduated from escorting merchant ships to hunting pirates on a ship that Aethan himself captained, the brothers Kennex were a force to be reckoned with, a force forged from the strength of the oldest brother's will. Aethan got so much respect for how well he taught his brothers that he was the one tasked with teaching the ungovernable Washburn Grayson to sail, more responsibility that he bore without breaking. These few years, riding high on the waves with his brothers by his side, were the happiest of Aethan's life, and they ended too soon when Ian, while trying to sail a prize ship through a storm, fell from the rigging and nearly died. The fall left Ian paralyzed -- and Aethan knew that it was his fault. He should have seen the signs that the storm was coming. He should have checked the prize ship's rigging. Unable to stomach the guilt, unable even to look at his broken little brother, Aethan lost himself in the bottle. He also lost himself in the comfort of a woman. Invierna Winter, the daughter of a wealthy Thrax-sworn merchant, came to him in that darkest night and soothed him. Only weeks after meeting her, they were married. Aethan loved her ardently enough that, at least for a couple of years, he was able to drown out his own self-loathing. But this moment of peace was ephemeral. Aethan lost his father, his mother, and his wife all in quick succession -- his father died of a lingering illness that had plagued him for months, and then a few weeks later, his mother and wife died suddenly during the same night. The Aethan who turned up in Arx weeks later was a shadow of the man he had once been, held together by copious amounts of alcohol and little else. He was reunited with his brothers, and as they gradually healed their relationship, he began to heal, as well. He became admiral of Stormward's fleet and served with distinction, spearheading the House's efforts to rebuild into something even stronger than it had been before the freeing of the thralls had driven it to the edge of ruin. Then he was needed for a greater and weightier calling -- Duke-Regent. It wasn't a responsibility that he was comfortable with shouldering, but he did it anyway, just like he always has done. If he's not equal to the task, he'll just have to force himself to rise to it.
just have to force himself to rise to it. +
After Prince Argus Thrax's affair that led …
After Prince Argus Thrax's affair that led to the birth of a bastard, Prince Drake Thrax gave his brother an ultimatum. Marry politically or be cast from the house. Argus obeyed and a match was secured. Princess Natasha was born years later from the connection, the younger half-sister to Victus Baseborn. Her youth was often spent being tutored in matters of law, stewardship and scholarly pursuits, as is tradition for Thraxian women. Natasha took to her studies naturally, soon becoming the honor student for her teachers and a shining example of Mourning Isles discipline. Prince Donrai soon ascended to High Lord of the Mourning Isles, he ensured Princess Natasha would be set on the path of law and order. Into her teenage years and onward, she was groomed to act as a magistrate for Maelstrom's needs. Natasha took to the role with frightening efficiency. Solutions were devised of a purely pragmatic approach, earning her praise and ire from those effected by her contributions. Her desire for the perfection of justice eventually led her to taking up a discipleship with the Faith, after meeting the Palace Seraph Ailith by chance. She came to venerate the Sentinel. The Faceless God was fairness in its purest form, something she aspired to in all of her responsibilities. Through the years, she has been a constant creator of order for the Mourning Isles. Lawlessness and chaos were the two things she abhorred the most and she sought to make it right wherever she went. Several Islander peers have had her assistance in managing their domains. Surprisingly for one so driven to constant improvement of one's House, she even eschewed taking a political match as to not interfere with her duties. Instead of searching for alliance, Natasha took up a role with the Inquisition. Dedicated to rooting out trouble and madness through her individual merit. The death of Donrai and the raise of a usurper was a frightening prospect. To her, it was perhaps the worst crisis that could've befallen her home. Natasha sought to maintain cohesion and stability as best she could through a turbulent time, a role she played well into the wars of Tolmar Brand and the Gyre. Ensuring that the institutions that protected her people would be safe, through and through. The Princess was a bedrock of tradition and a force of consistency through hardship. In recent times, Natasha finds herself growing too sedentary. Rumors and tales of myth and legend have begun to circulate back to her ears. People who speak of demons, of Abyss, of apocalypse and ruin. What were once simple stories are taking shape as real, physical concepts among the populace. What's more, reformation and change has begun sweeping through the Isles to a tune of uncertainty. The world she'd known for so long has begun to quake and shadows fall in its wake. Unsatisfied with remaining on the Isles with such growing tension in the back of her mind, Princess Natasha has sailed to Arx to join the rest of the world. In search of answers and devising a solution.
search of answers and devising a solution. +
After being sent off to become a scholar o …
After being sent off to become a scholar on a far-flung island as an extra lady who was too rebellious for the Argento family, Carissa heard what happened to the nobles of Arx and returned in a panic a few years too late, after the Gyre had been defeated. Her family mostly dead, and her March given to Lianne, she yearned for something to do to gain back some measure of trust for herself and the name Argento. However, after learning some hard truths about that name, Carissa is humbled, thankful, and even grateful to Lianne for welcoming her home with open arms and kindness. She is working hard to regain herself, after so many years of anger. She's always been rebellious, it's true, but now she's trying to live up to the new family name she proudly wears.
to the new family name she proudly wears. +
After the sudden and tragic passing of his …
After the sudden and tragic passing of his father, Ruslan Volkov rose to power, claiming the title of Horselord. He had spent his entire life preparing for the position and now a wicked fire burnt in his ice blue eyes. His first year of rule was tumultuous. The Horselord bent the knee, becoming a vassal underneath the Compact and sending waves through the tribe. To this day, he deals with the aftermath of his decision. Yet, Ruslan doesn't see it as an act of weakness. Rather, the way forward into a brighter future.
r, the way forward into a brighter future. +
After twenty-six years of marriage, her pa …
After twenty-six years of marriage, her parents hadn't expected a sudden conception of a daughter. Neither did their House, but everyone was thrilled for the marriage of the retired general Cristofer Lyonesse, then 53, and his wife Merylda (nee Bisland), 44, to finally bear fruit. While doting parents (they had waited a very long time for her) it's hard to be the only daughter of a general as anyone can guess but it's probably harder to be the only daughter of a retired general, who has nothing better to do but to turn his beloved daughter into a miniature version of himself. As she grew older, and especially after her mother died when she was 10, the two were inseparable, realizing that her father's days were likely numbered as well. Seeing to her education himself, even their time marked for recreation had an educational bent to it. Camping trips were focused on hunting and survival and visits to ally lands were always accompanied by drills. From the ages of 13 to 17, her summers were spent with the Bislands as a foster though her overprotective and widower father was known to accompany her on these trips. Most of his time, however, was preoccupied with catching up with Duke Gabriel Bisland - a man he had worked and served with off and on throughout his youth and respected and admired greatly - leaving the Bislands to do their job fostering her. When she finally came of age, she began to serve House Lyonesse proudly and had only begun to find her feet when her father passed on and left a hole in her life. Somewhat lost, her attempt at forging her own path manifested in the first step of heading to Arx to be with the family in a time of crisis as the Compact braces for war with Apostates and foriegn forces. It seemed like the job she was meant to do.
t seemed like the job she was meant to do. +
Agostino was born to one of the barmaids a …
Agostino was born to one of the barmaids at the Black Fox tavern, a lively woman named Marina Alonso, some time ago. Her family had lived in the Ward of the Lyceum for two generations, tracing their blood back to servants who accompanied members of house Argento to Arx as servants from Nilanza. An only child, he fell in easily with some of the troublemakers in the Ward as he grew older, running the streets with them and getting into all manner of mischief. Though he never missed any of the lessons with the Scholars that his mother insisted on, otherwise he could be found all over the city by the time he had reached his teen years. His knowledge of the streets of the city became increasingly valuable as he approached adulthood, beginning with working in the same tavern as his mother, carrying messages for the customers. This quickly translated into more silver for him when he realized that the value of the content of some of those messages, to the right sort of people, was quite high. Along with what he learned from the Scholars, he developed a strong appreciation for knowledge of all sorts, particularly the sort that was risky or difficult to obtain. Over time, he developed a reputation for having access, or gaining it, to all sorts of interesting tidbits, and for years, he did so freelance, selling what he found to the highest bidders. Most of his customers were Lycene, though, given where he grew up, and many considered it merely a matter of time before he was hired by one of them. This happened only recently, however, with the formation of house Malespero, in a way bringing him full circle, since they now have control of the city his own family originated in. It took him some time to get used to the idea of having an employer, but now he has settled into his role within the household comfortably.
his role within the household comfortably. +
Ahmar grew up in Stonedeep and was closest …
Ahmar grew up in Stonedeep and was closest to his sister Azolla. Because of her illness as a child, and his lack of social skills and book smarts, he took to training, telling himself that at the very least he could keep his little sister safe. Once he became older and Azolla began to flourish more he began branching out a bit, offering his spear, sword, or axe to any who needed it. He see's it as his duty to keep the people of the north safe. He saw many battles in his time up north. Most of which ending in him being injured so bad that most people wouldn't think a human could survive, but be it luck, the spirits, the gods or /something/, he always managed to make it out the other side without permanent damage, some of course requiring more recovery time than ever. Despite this, it never stopped him from picking his weapons and armor back up and going back at it. More recently his sister came to Arx, and being distrustful of people he doesn't know, he decided to follow, just in case.
know, he decided to follow, just in case. +
Ahriman Pravus (married Grayson) was born …
Ahriman Pravus (married Grayson) was born the fourth sibling and he was a long way from inheritance of the Pravus leadership which meant outside of treachery he was never going to sniff much significance with Setarco and it seemed he was destined to be marriage fodder. Ahriman was left to find his way through military conquest and focused on the sea. A cunning man he was seen as ambitious om his pursuit of sailing; yet perhaps lacking in the Lyceum manner of doing whatever it takes to move upwards within the ranks. He quickly found himself captain upon the High Seas and earned a small measure of prominence through his exploits and leadership. By his siblings and family he was seen as a distant threat due to his familial loyalty and nature. He was never seen as possessing the cunning treacherous aspirations stereotyped within the Lyceum. When Ahriman was married off (sight unseen) to Princess Alarys Grayson the marriage was a suitable match for him. Ahriman married up due to the need of the Grayson fleet of capable commanders. Secondarily the marriage would help tie and improve relations between the Lyceum (and their massive fleets) and the Grayson family. And when viewed through the lenses of Thraxian instability and rebellion that left the seas volatile and unruly; the marriage was a perfect opportunistic match of the time. And so he was content to marry up and the man found himself enjoying his newfound family and position. Ahriman showed his prowess at sea and as he sailed and led Grayson ships to war the man earned notoriety and was seen as a great rising commander whose sights were set upon command and control of the Grayson fleet. At home his marriage blossomed and the birth of his first daughter (Lou Grayson) and concluding with his third and youngest daughter (Reese Grayson). All of whom favored their mother's lighter complexion. He was a firm yet caring father full of energy and warmth to his children and his family. He grew to love his wife very deeply. Ahriman was far more reserved outside of this circle behind closed doors and was perceived at times to be a bit cold and firm in his person outside of his closed circle. He was very much a firm authoritarian in his personality when removed from the presence of the joys in his life. Ahriman was next in line to inherit the Grayson fleet when he sailed out with a small number of ships on a searcg mission into Abandoned waters in 994 AR in search of the lost Alaric III. The small contingent of vessels never returned and many considered Prince Ahriman Grayson a casualty caught up in either a victim of piracy or having been lost to violent storms that were reported in the area. No word of the presumed dead Prince surfaced for many years until recently. Rumors began in late 1009 AR of a man found many leagues into Abandoned and Gyre waters that capture a barely sailable skiff and found refuge in Lyceum waters near Setarco. Weak, gaunt, and barely alive he was taken to the Mercy's where he was nourished back to health until only recently did he regain consciousness. That man has identified himself as Prince Ahriman Grayson. He remembers little or nothing of what happened seventeen years ago on his voyage. His life the last seventeen years was spent as a slave in Abandoned lands he recalls well. It was not until disease wiped out his captors (one his Arx immunities saved him from) that he found and eventually won his freedom. The layers of scars and whip marks upon his flesh validate much of his claim along with the clear aged deformation around his throat due to his slave collar. Now Prince Ahriman has returned to Arx to see what became of his daughters, his wife, and his Grayson family. He has been reported to be distant and if not a little troubled from his ordeal but mostly of sound mind and body. His physical prowess though has waned given his captivity and torment.
has waned given his captivity and torment. +
Ahrsen was born on a tiny island to the so …
Ahrsen was born on a tiny island to the south. Expansion pushed larger houses outwards, and those, in turn, pushed smaller houses even further out. Soon the tiny island was usurped by a greater house and made into a barony after a terrible battle that saw most fighting men dead. The boy's mother would sing to him at night and tell him stories of the old kingdom and what it was like to be a part of his people. Having fled their little island the boy and his mother grew up in relative peace until he came of age. It was around the age of 14 or 15 that Ahrsen begins to show an interest in a sailors life. He threw in with mercenaries early on and soon was sailing the clear blue waters of the south seas and raiding. Within a matter of years, he soon had a ship of his own and a loyal crew. His silent, brooding nature and short way of speaking garnered a fair amount of loyalty and respect from his crew, and they were feared in those waters. The captain was in it for the money and glory, nothing more. As a captain, Ahrsen learned more things than the art of sailing and combat. He learned things like music and poetry, things he had no skill at but grew on him. A love of animals, wildlife, and art also entertained his thoughts. All these things were as much a part of his adventures as they were the upbringing by his mother, a lady who had once had great influence on the little island where he was born. His mother passed shortly after his 20th year but not before giving a ring that belonged to his father. The mercenary group had turned into a sizeable fleet after some time, and they begin to run into trouble as they gained a little too much attention. Rather than fight to the bitter end or be captured and imprisoned, Ahrsen and his crew sold their ship, disbanded most of the crew and then purchased a new one. In that vessel, they sailed to Arx with plans to do business closer to the capital. For now, they have been raiding Abandoned and doing mercenary jobs, the Captain waiting for the right time to take in a big haul.
for the right time to take in a big haul. +
Aibek Grayson is the youngest child of Rod …
Aibek Grayson is the youngest child of Roderick Grayson and Daniela Grayson nee Bisland. A scion of both House Grayson and House Bisland. He studied combat under his uncle duke Gabriel Bisland along with his older brother Ainsley. But he leaned more toward smaller, faster blades than his older brother. His parents had all but given up on getting one of their children to be a politician by the time that Aibek was old enough to start being guided in life, so while he was given tutelage and taught how to be a noble as all members of his family-- he was also somewhat spoilt by his parents. He was allowed to put his attention more toward the physical, becoming quite acrobatic. But he also had a wanderlust, and he ended up travelling for some time with a relative, and then joining the Knights of Solace as a disciple. Squaring with a knight for a time to help protect travelers.
ight for a time to help protect travelers. +
Aindre Grayson was a bold and capable soul …
Aindre Grayson was a bold and capable soul from his youngest years, always a strong-willed handful and into everything. His parents and teachers realized early on that his liveliness of spirit would need to be channeled into something productive. The sword was a natural fit and he was allowed to pursue it so long as he gave an equal amount of dedication to his lessons in strong leadership, sound diplomacy and whatever else his parents thought to be the hallmarks of a great political figure. This left him with the well-rounded education a prince should have, but anyone could see that while it was duty which drove him to learn the importance of maneuvering through the political machinations of the realm, his training in arms was where his passion was allowed to blossom. Between the excessive number of exceptionally talented members belonging to both halves of his Grayson and Bisland lineage, Aindre was never at a loss for older role models nor was he ever lacking in extraordinary cousins to test himself against in matters of the sword or the silver tongue. A veteran of two wars - the Silence and the Gyre - it was only a matter of time before his duties carried him to Arx on a more long-term basis in the Spring of 1012 AR at a point when tensions were high, the last of his siblings to do so. How his story unfolds from there is anyone's guess, but Aindre Grayson cut his teeth on tales of his family's storied history and the words of his House might as well be etched into his soul, so many in Bastion expect even greater things from him. No pressure, right?
eater things from him. No pressure, right? +
Aisha was one of several siblings and a m …
Aisha was one of several siblings and a member of the Inverno family. She was expected to uphold the traditions of her family as well as be a proper woman of the Velenosa fealty. Duty was hammered into Aisha since birth. This sense of duty never escaped her even as it became clear as she grew that she was a person who got lost in her own thoughts far too much. However, she never failed to take up her duties. One is not noble, according to Aisha, and forgets their duties towards their family, their fealty, and their Gods. That is the way of things. At one point in her life Aisha realized she, like many of her family seemed to be inclined, wished to become a Mirrormask. She realized her more notable personality traits were at odds with each other, just as a reflection typical is.
ch other, just as a reflection typical is. +
Aksel hails from a commoner family Nygard …
Aksel hails from a commoner family Nygard that has been loyal to the Nightgolds for as long as anyone can remember. Like the clan of enterprising shavs so many generations ago, they too bent the knee to Arx and its rulers. The Nygard clan ended up being small, but proud family of miners, which they had done for generations before being brought into the fold of Nightgold. Good work, hard work, but fulfilling work. They worked the mines, were paid decently for their services and really couldn't be asked for much else. They were neither popular or disliked, the Nygards were seem more as a staple and anchor in Stonedeep. So long as a Nygard worked the mines, all would be well. Aksel, in the beginning, barely entering his teen, joined in the family work, taking up the pickaxe like his father, brothers, and ancestors before. In his clan, it was something as priviledge, grateful to the mountain that allowed them to take their bounty from it. Aksel's life took a turn for the different, the day a tribe of shavs, still unwilling to bend knee and finding the hold of Stonedeep and affront to their way of life, attacked one of the mines worked by the Nightgold. Aksel's father older brothers were there that day, and were killed in the resulting cave-in that ensued, created by the attacking shavs. For all his life, Aksel had intended on just being another miner, an everyman, a common man, and was content with this. But now being the eldest of the family and burning with anger at the family taken from him, he enlisted in the duchy's armies to serve his cause and get his revenge after the tribe led to the collapse of a mine tunnel, entombing his father and eldestborn brothers with in it. Come to his surprise, his more than anyone else's, he had a knack for combat. It came naturally to him as it did taking a pickaxe to ore. And this talent was picked out by the Nightgolds, one of their elder soldiers having an eye for raw, but bursting talent when she sees it. She took young Aksel under her wing, having him train alongside Nadia and her elder brother Dustin. A rather odd thing to do, which made Aksel nervous to no end, not thinking he should be anywhere near them, but oddly enough, the three of them formed a bond and fast friendship between them. And so the training and fighting continued, Aksel, somehow making a name for himself as one of the better soldiers in Stonedeep, a point of contention the man always denies, having no want or need for songs sung or ballads told about him. Which really, only endeared him more to common folk of Stonedeep, being his humility and the simple statement that he was only doing his job. It was, and still is, something he hasn't gotten used to, being the center of attention. He's more happy to stand in the background and let the nobles have their fun. His likes are simple ones, such as his hobby of carving jewerly from soapstone. Years and personal accolades later, Duke Neddim Nightgold goes on one of his "famous walks" that he was known to do and never comes back. Weeks pass, and after enough fretting and worrying, Dustin and a number of other Nightgold family members and soldiers go after him in search and end up missing as well. Some time later, a sack is sent to doors of Stonedeep. Inside the bag is nothing more than a number of severed, frostbitten and bloated hands back with rosegold signet rings. None of them were the duchal ring, which meant there was chance Duke Nightgold still lived, resulting in Princess Nadia to send a war party out for blood and take revenge. She appointed Aksel, her friend, to led that war party, though word is he requested to lead it because of his friendship with Dustin. The shavs, and it was shavs who committed the act, were killed to the man, Aksel as the one who killed their chieftan in single combat, leaving the latter dead and former with a scar on his face for his efforts. It was to be this story that would be told for some time. Rescuing the Duke Nightgold and avenging the losses of the house, Princess Nadia named Aksel Sword of Stonedeep as a title, and giving him the relic weapon which represented that house. And yes, to this day, Aksel still downplays his involvement. He's just a soldier, even if these days Nadia keeps dragging him along in whatever she happens to get wrapped up in.
whatever she happens to get wrapped up in. +
Alayne's history, since childhood, was lac …
Alayne's history, since childhood, was laced and tied to calamity that was no public secret. Her father, a famed alchemist under the hire of a now diseased vassal of Redrain, practiced his trade openly in the red ward of its fealty. A particularly treacherous night called for the explosion of his laboratory, a combination of fire; of nameless concoctions with terrifying, gaseous nature spelling the doom of him, his Lord and his family name. Alayne was cast aside as one of the few surviving elders of her already shattered family. The youngest were taken in as wards of the surrounding houses- pages, squires, or stableboys. The relatively older Alayne, however, shed her name and took to the only thing she knew; mixing potions and working her father's trade as yet another nameless figure in patchy browns amongst the many, chasing battlefields and death to ply medicine and healing. As an omen of strife to surely come, it is no secret why the woman has returned to Arx.
secret why the woman has returned to Arx. +
Alban Farshaw is a cousin of the Duke of W …
Alban Farshaw is a cousin of the Duke of Westrock Reach, slightly out of line of succession given his age. His mother was the youngest sister of the old Duke of Westrock, who died without an heir of his blood-- passing the duchy to Ryhalt. Alban has never been concerned with the line of succession for the duchy, however. His concerns have always been on the troops of Westrock. At a young age it was decided he would become the General of Westrock-- his father, after all, was the previous once. So when he was old enough he was sent to the mainland and to Sanctum to squire with a knight there. He took the lessons of honor, chivalry, and fealty quite to heart. When he graduated from his squirehood and was knighted he returned home to take over the duties as Minister of Warfare for Westrock Reach. While he's still a young commander he's got a natural charisma and calming quality to him. He's a staid and serious young man. He is dedicated to his family and to his troops.
dedicated to his family and to his troops. +
Aleksei was born a middle-child to a well- …
Aleksei was born a middle-child to a well-respected commoner family serving in Sanctum which a long history of service for House Valardin. While his father had earned a place of trust and respect as Captain of the Guard in the city, and several of his children siblings seemed certain to follow in similarly honorable footsteps, Aleksei was -- a bit of a trouble. He took to the sword with a truly obnoxious amount of skill, but by the time he was sixteen he had grown too restless under the pressure of potential honor; he packed his things and left. Over the years since he traveled up and down Arvum, serving as a mercenary, man-at-arms, random muscle, and general adventurer. As luck would have it -- and luck often seems to have it where Aleksei is concerned -- he was back in his homeland of the Oathlands when he rather inadvertently ended up saving the children of one of the smaller noble houses there. It was their gratitude that had them thrusting a knighthood upon Aleksei; it was not long at all after saying the vows (vows?!) that he was making a break for his next adventure, heedless of whether he'd be confirmed by the high lord or not. It was Arx that he eventually made his way to; it had enough diversity and diversions to satisfy his cravings for a few years serving as a duelist, Champion, and occasional instructor for those with less skill and more money than him. It was something of a shock when he decided to take his vows and join the Faith as a Godsworn seemingly out of nowhere. Sir Aleksei became Brother Aleksei, despite all previous evidence of irresponsibility and general distraction from any matters of the divine. There were even some rumors around the end of the Siege of Arx in 1006 that he served as some sort of Paladin against Tolamar Brand, leader of the Silent Army, but what exactly that entailed is less than clear. It wasn't long after the siege ended that he was named Archlector of Skald, one of the three newly-returned Lost Gods of the Pantheon. To a lot of the senior Faith, the appointment came rather ridiculously early in his career -- particularly for someone who wasn't exactly known for his devoutness before taking his vows -- but they couldn't exactly refuse the decision from the Dominus himself. He's taken to some parts of the priesthood...more than others. During his tenure as Archlector, he raised millions of silver the Faith used to liberate some several thousand thralls and set up a new Faith initiative to help care for all those freed from bondage moving forward: a chance to start their new lives with Faith support wherever in the Compact they chose. It didn't make him many friends among the Mourning Isles, but it did help prepare the Faith to be able to respond when House Kennex suddenly abolished thralldom in their lands. In January 1009, Legate Orazio announced Aleksei's resignation from the Faith "due to certain personal needs." The announcement was rather sudden and without warning, as well as less formal scuttlebutt that a hitherto unknown son might the catalyst of the decision, and brought with it thirteen days kneeling in front of the Shrine of Limerance as penance. In the end, he returned to the life of a commoner, now without rank or title, to start the next chapter of his life.
le, to start the next chapter of his life. +
Alessan's beginnings were quite humble. H …
Alessan's beginnings were quite humble. He was born to a father who was a fledgling poet and a mother who worked as a seamstress fashioning dresses that some of the members of the ruling family wore from time to time. If it had been up to his mother, he might have found himself in the life of a crafter, but there was another path for him. He grew up on his father's poems and stories and they fascinated him, there was always something about the construction of a poem could convey so many more meanings than the words themselves could. As he reached his adulthood, he struck out from Tor to travel around the duchy in order to experience what life had to offer. He spoke to everyone he could in order to discover their own life experiences and in one small village he came across a bard. The man was older and had a way of entertaining folk with stories, song and other small tricks. Alessan found himself captivated by the older man and set off from the village with him. Their travels took them all over the lands of House Velenosa, but Tor was always home for Alessan and after ten years of travelling with the old bard, he returned home and began to make a name for himself around the city and the duchy with the skills he picked up on the road. He's spent some years doing this, but now he finds that the call of Arx is loud and he wants to see what new adventures his life has to offer.
what new adventures his life has to offer. +
Alessandro was a youth who pushed limits. …
Alessandro was a youth who pushed limits. He got into trouble a lot, and set his overbearing will against the dominance of his elders generally and his parents in particular. He was a handful, a struggle; generally, a big pain in the neck. As he grew older, his mischief grew more obscure and intellectual. His favorite game began to be pitting his intellect against that of instructors he believed couldn't keep up with him. Of course, when he was 12, it turned out he was rarely right about this -- the amount of knowledge an active preteen can absorb, no matter how much time he spends in libraries and harassing scholars for information, is not really a match for most trained adults. But he never really lost his taste for the game. He hated sword lessons. He hated learning about poisons and antidotes. He was fortuitously allergic to horse dander and exaggerated his allergy to get out of more and more things so that he could spend more time with his books. He learned etiquette and mastered it expressly so that he could push the limits of being rude, and, enchanted with his own cleverness, earned himself several enemies in Lenosia's court. At least one of them is dead now, and it can't actually be traced to Alessandro at all, but he's always been on the lucky side. Theology lured him, especially the theology of doubt, and while his cousin Isolde soared into the panoply of the Mirrormasks and reached heights of elevation as a disciple leader, he personally found much more lure in the practicum of their craft, and focused himself almost entirely on the scholarship of law and politics. By the time he defended his first case as a Mirrormask serving in the Court of Lenosia, he was certain he couldn't lose, because he knew the law that well. It turns out there is more to defending a case than being right, though, and Alessandro learned some humility in practice that he had never had before. A perfect record is impossible as a defense attorney, but defending the indefensible is the greatest challenge of Faith for a Mirrormask, and Alessandro grew skilled in the balance of ego and humility, doubt and certainty, necesssary for the work. He also learned very valuable lessons from his family about the critical impact that sartorial perfection can have on one's effect.
orial perfection can have on one's effect. +
Alessio Moretti was born in the twin citie …
Alessio Moretti was born in the twin cities of Gemecitta as the third and last child to Niccolo Moretti, a kind and passionate jeweler of some renown, and Fiore Moretti, a struggling artist with a big heart and a frail mind. It was a tumultuous childhood at the best of times for young Alessio. Between his apprenticeship in his fathers shop, a mother who was slipping into her own world for long periods of time more and more frequently and a sister who had inherited her mothers fragile psyche and was more or less constantly depressed and needed taking care of, there wasnt much time for friendships or fun. One of the few friends he did have was Vittoria, the daughter of a tailor living only a few houses down the street from his own. Their fathers were good friends and her mother often came over to help with things around the house, bringing Vittoria with her. They quickly bonded and the bond only grew tighter as the years passed, the two of them spending most of their waking hours together when daily work and chores had been seen to. She was four years his younger but every bit as smart, a sharp-minded and determined young woman even from an early age. His father was a warm and kind man, but also a ruthless perfectionist when it came to his craft and it wasnt easy being his apprentice. It was, however, a highly effective way of learning, even if it meant many sleepless nights studying or trying to perfect yet another of the delicate techniques needed for the craft to meet his fathers expectations. The rigorous training and mentoring proved not to be lost on Alessio, as he quickly rose in both skill and understanding of the art of jewelry making. At age twelve the first creation made by his hand was sold in his fathers shop and at the age of 15 he was starting to rival even the skills of his father and mentor. As the years passed, little changed save for Alessios ever increasing skill at his craft and his bond with Vittoria growing closer and into something more than just friendship. He would work, take care of his mother and sister and spend what free time he had by Vittorias side. But then, one day, things suddenly did start to change. The relationship between himself and Vittoria had kept growing and had evolved into more than mere friendship to a degree where none of them could hide or deny it any longer. Roughly 4 years ago, shortly before his twenty-eighth birthday, they were married after a very short period of being together as a couple. They didnt need more time, they already knew everything about each other from a life spent by one anothers side. Not long after the marriage, Fiore, Alessios mother, recovered from her ailments seemingly overnight, returning to the real world once more and not long after that, his sister started to recover, even if at a more modest pace than their mother. No one could fully explain how, but the little family didnt seem to care about such things as why or how, too busy caught up in the joy of finally having mother and wife, sister and daughter, returned to them. It was a happy time and the following years went by fast. About two years ago, Vittoria approached him with the idea of Moving to Arx to start their own business and their own family. To get a new start in a new place, to define a future for themselves, a future forged by their own hands. Alessio was hesitant and not immediately ready to leave his home and family, still unsure whether his mother and sister would remain in good health and continue their recovery from all those years lost to them. He wasnt completely opposed to the idea, he just.needed a little more time. Vittoria didnt give up or abandon the idea, however, and over the following two years she slowly convinced him that it was the right thing for them to do. With his mother and sister not showing any signs of relapse and the increased passion and longing in his the eyes and words of his wife, he finally agreed. And so, the two of them would set out on the longest journey either of them had ever undertaken, traveling halfway across the country to the capital city of Arx to start their new life.
pital city of Arx to start their new life. +
Alexander and his twin sister, Alexis, wer …
Alexander and his twin sister, Alexis, were born to Alphonse Wyrmfang, then the Sword of Blancbier. Coming from a respected family of Knights, both of the siblings were raised in the martial tradition, destined to become Knights in their own time, and the importance of the family traditions of honor, loyalty, and service were drilled into them at a very young age. Alexander was always the more skeptical of the two, and tended to take the tales they were told with a grain of salt, though the lessons they were designed to impart were certainly not lost on the deep thinking young man. When not out on the training field, Alexander could usually be found in his youth with his nose buried in a book - the older the better. History and philosophy fascinated him from a very young age, and he studied both topics intensely, sometimes even to the detriment of his other training responsibilities. This isn't to say, by any means, that he didn't take his martial training serious as well. He has, for as long as he can remember, been a natural with a blade in his hand, and has always tended towards smaller, faster weapons, making good use of his keen agility and long reach. Coming to Arx after the death of his father, Alexander has every intention of pursuing both his martial and intellectual skills, set on finding a place and position where he can make good use of both talents. He intends to do whatever he can to help and support his twin as well, who, after the death of their father, was named the new Sword - a fact which has garnered no ill-will from Alexander. He had resigned himself at a very young age to the fact that he would not be named as the Sword, and truthfully, has always felt his sister to be better equipped to handle the charge.
o be better equipped to handle the charge. +
Alexander, or rather, Xander to everyone n …
Alexander, or rather, Xander to everyone not his mother, came from a poor family, barely more than serfs that lived on the outskirts of Southport. And like many famlies, he came from a large one, with a rather inordinate amount of mouths to feed. Xander, who was the eldest, was listless in his youth, unmoved by any particular direction to go in. Until one day, at supper, seeing the meager amount of food they were given to eat, realized that if he gave his portion to the rest of his siblings, they'd eat better than him. Which was the point he realized he needed to do what he could to not be a drain on his family's income. He joined the Southport military the next week, to join the rank and file of a man-at-arms, like so many others. Instead of doing it out of the mandatory elistment for all young men and women, he joined before it was his time, and sending his payment of service to his family, putting the food they needed on the table. It was not out of patriotism or some kind higher call. He was just a young man doing what he could to provide for his family that scaped by payday to payday. The Tor-Southport war his first taste of life of war that would eventually become a career spanning over twenty years. And in those twenty years, he often found more strife than easy times. And a great deal of sacrifice. When he lost his arm, his first thought was not if he would die, only how would he be able to do the job that he come to do very well, and had been, at that time, on a list of short names to become the next Sword of Southport, one of the few swordsman in the city who excelled with a blade to a degree to be considered one of the best. Those dreams were dashed the moment the surgeon removed the infected limb from his body. But Southport military is not one to toss away a valued asset, especially when that asset has no desire to see early retirement. And Xander did all but beg to stay on as a Sergeant within the ranks. While he had no desire to be removed from the front lines, a position offered to him by the Duchess Malvici to come to Arx as a drill instructor was a chance to keep earning his pay while still doing his duty. But the alternative was much more bleak. With no other options left to him, Sergeant Trevisani left for the great city.
ergeant Trevisani left for the great city. +
Alexandros once strived to be a sterotypic …
Alexandros once strived to be a sterotypical boyscout. He was polite, honest, brave, and obedient to his social superiors. He served a few years as a rather unremarkable though dogged Templar, often going on pilgrimages to help those in need and to right perceived wrongs, only it's become apparent to those who know him best that he's withdrawn into himself and is now an empty shell of what he used to be. Where he was once a cheerful lad with dreams of heroism, he's become something of a crestfallen recluse that seems to be married to his letter of his job and has grown oddly apathetic and listless to the spirit of it.
pathetic and listless to the spirit of it. +
Alheri was born to the Melaeris family, fa …
Alheri was born to the Melaeris family, far from Old Oak. Her mother served as lady-in-waiting to Princess Kellen Grayson, and when the Princess married the Marquis Melaeris, Lady Maira struck up a friendship with his cousin, Maleck. After a few years there was a proper courtship - and after that, a marriage and eventually four children, of which Alheri is the oldest. And then there was the tragedy of Old Oak. For as long as she can remember, Alheri has faced various disappointments in life - early dreams of romance were quashed by the pragmatic love her parents held for each other, and for their children. Her desire for a sister never quite manifested. She didn't quite have the aptitude for blade and battle that would let her be a storybook knight. And her friends would fail her in various ways as well. In short, Alheris accentuated the negative. The world was a disappointment. Only in her dreams - and in her ideals - could she find the perfection she craved. But even that wouldn't last long. She had a natural touch for brush and clay, but despite others declaring her genius, she could always find a flaw. Always find something to be unhappy with. She has striven for all of her (admittedly short) adult life to chase perfection. Eventually, she decided that she'd rather seek it at Deepwood. The Conscience of the Peers was far from perfect, but in Samantha, Alheri saw someone who might wish to attack the flaws she saw, rather than be made uncomfortable with them. Besides, Deepwood needs the numbers, and Alheri is happy to oblige. And her family, of course, were happy to return her and strengthen the bonds between Melaeris and Deepwood, and the two fealty chains (in theory). Alheri has barely been in Old Oak for a year, but she's ready to make changes. And ready to assist the Marquessa in making changes. And maybe, just maybe, she'll set aside some time for herself, to chase perfection. Arx is the melting pot of the Compact. If it can be found anywhere, it can be found here. Right?
und anywhere, it can be found here. Right? +
Alina was born to an unimportant branch of …
Alina was born to an unimportant branch of House Redreef and raised in an almost painfully ordinary manner, as befits any noblewoman from the Mourning Isles. When other children played outside, she was taught to balance ledgers. When her siblings went out sailing, she stayed and studied the great lawgivers. And so it was that when a great dispute arose one day, between two utterly unimportant members of the nobility, Alina Redreef stepped forward to settle the dispute. And there it was that a great secret was revealed to all: Knowing a lot about the law doesn't mean that you know the first thing about people. After the great embarrassment that was her first foray into society, Alina's parents discreetly shipped her off to Arx. Returning without substantial improvements in station, it was quite strongly implied, was not an option.
quite strongly implied, was not an option. +
Alise is the youngest of three daughters, …
Alise is the youngest of three daughters, one of which has married into the Thrax fealty and another into the Grayson fealty. Her mother was a Lycene Lady, and as such, she was sent to foster in the Lyceum when younger. She was to marry a Fidante, when she was sixteen, a contract involving a route to trade roses and pomegranates in the offing but since the recent skirmishes between the Lyceum and the Oathlands sprung up, the contract has been annulled before they were properly wed, and she caught the first ship to Arx to get out of the islands before things could escalate. She cannot help but think of those years as the best of her life, but cannot even bring herself to take pride in that side of her heritage of late, and wants even less to be married into a future there. She has opted to keep some of the fashion, but has a deep seated loathing for the /expected/ treachery of the politics, viewing it as dishonorable and beneath anyone aiming to call themselves noble. This is something of an irony as she has the unfortunate reputation of haggling like a fishmonger. This is actually rooted in her refusal to make it look like she is not involved in anything she is involved in. In fact, she has a tendency to both macromanage and micromanage coin around her, and feels that using a go between to make it look like she doesn't is just dishonest.
t look like she doesn't is just dishonest. +
All he has ever known or more can remember …
All he has ever known or more can remember is the house of Thrax, from when he was very young he had been taken and placed as a thrall in the service of one lord or another until he reached ten. Only then was he placed with the man that would be his adopted father later in life Torvin Wavehowler. Torvin was a blacksmith, his specialty was weapons, but he had some skill with armor as well. It was a hard place to be for someone so young, but over the next five years he toiled and sweated under Torvin's tutelage, thinking he wasn't doing more than manning the fire and fetching tools. At fifteen years Torvin put him in front of the anvil and a hammer in hand. He was amazed how much strength he had built up over the years and in a short time having watched so long, sometimes only listening, that he was able to craft decent weapons. After anther five years he had made enough weapons and become good enough with other materials other than steel that he had earned his freedom. It wasn't only his freedom, Torvin himself adopted him and kept him working at the weapon shop he owned. Torvin never had children and Haati was more a son by that point then he would ever have born from another. It started showing when he began growing weaker and a few years later could not even hold a hammer. They didn't know what was wrong, but he died soon after taken to being bedridden, the life, his craft and he could not do it, crushed him. The shop was owned by the local lord and he wouldn't recognize Haati's inheritance of it. Things will be and things that are, his skill was useful on the for the Thrax ships he found himself a mariner, pirate to some, employing what skill he had with a bow and his weaponsmithing to good use on the oceans that were so close to what he had called a home. He spent his time on the waves, on a ship, an archer for higher and a weaponsmith t keep the money in his pocket flowing. He acquired a taste for the hopping from one wharf and docks bar to another carousing and drinking. So until recently he has done mostly what he wanted, but then House Thrax had came to him and made an offer he could little refuse. To take up shop in Arx, support their interests and he would receive all he ever desired.
and he would receive all he ever desired. +
All too common, Leta's family just barely …
All too common, Leta's family just barely a step above the rabble of the slums, and clung to that hint of respectability even when coin was all too scarce. She'd had a few surviving siblings, all older than her, and all seemed destined for a dreary life of menial labor, aspiring to some lesser craft at best. Her mother worked in a tavern, and the time Leta spent there and the colorful folk who'd come by instilled in her an admiration for the loud and bold warriors and adventurers who'd return from the field with pouches full of coin to spend. She learned the rudiments of swordplay from some of the regulars, and one day she was off to join a mercenary company. It wasn't easy to talk them into taking her on, and it wasn't easy to earn her place, but over the last few years she's proven herself, if largely against bandits and in minor disputes between lesser nobles.
d in minor disputes between lesser nobles. +
Althea was born to House Pravus and set he …
Althea was born to House Pravus and set herself apart for all the wrong reasons. In her youth she took more interest in helping her siblings, cousins, and other family members in their studies. She was punished for her lack of killer instinct and her drive for cooperation over competition, but it did little to curb her "unnatural" impulses. Those most generous to her were certain that she would grow out of it once puberty hit. They swore that there had been Pravus before who came to their senses as a coming-of-age rite: Some psychic wound or personal loss would harden her heart to the world. Puberty came and went, and the weight of family ambition did little to crumple the butterflies and daisies flitting in her heart. If anything, it seems to have reinforced them. Althea became the black sheep of the family, but she was still *family*. Instead of puzzling out how to change her, they instead decided to use her love of charity and helping others to their own less-than-innocent goals, and innocent Althea goes along with it none-the-wiser, ever trusting in her darling family.
iser, ever trusting in her darling family. +
Although born a Grayson, Triscali was of n …
Although born a Grayson, Triscali was of no special status or importance within the family. What was special about her, though, was her gift for magic, and it was on account of that gift that Triscali left her family to train as a mage with the Metallic Order. Before she could take her Name or forsake her family, circumstances called her back to the Compact, to become Queen-Regent. It turned out, she was a more powerful Queen-Regent than anyone bargained for, could not very well be controlled by the Great Houses of the Compact, and did, in fact, a great deal more controlling herself. A Queen of iron will is difficult to reckon with; a Queen of iron will AND powerful sorcery is entirely impossible. History remembers her for many things (or it would, if the Despite would allow it): for the breaking of writs in the Compact, for the wars with Cardia that followed. For her love of Macdon, and her grief at his loss. For her disdain of nobility, for her Black Rose Theatre. It remembers her, in the end, not as Queen-Regent, but as Queen -- though she left the world heirless, and gave up power of her own accord, to disappear into the annals of history (and then to disappear entirely, when that history was all but devoured).
, when that history was all but devoured). +
Although she was born three years later th …
Although she was born three years later than her elder sister Viviana, in many ways the siblings were cut from the same cloth. They looked similar and both had a restless nature about them that made them ill-suited to the life of a typical lady. Yet where this led Viviana to seek physical challenges, it led Lianne in the opposite direction - to seek mental ones. Even from a young age, it was rare to be able to walk into Liannes chambers without having to step around scattered diagrams and models, or to not find her hard at work dissecting some sort of animal or another upon her fine, mahogany armoire. She was never able to settle on just one discipline, bouncing from one to the next almost every month, but her keen mind devoured them all. When she blossomed into a beautiful young lady, her mother was initially keen to marry her off for political advantage. Yet whenever a marriage offer seemed close, Lianne would instantly turn her mind to aiding in issues of politics, government or economics and prove so valuable that the marriage would be put off. Of course, this would last only until the risk was gone, to the great exasperation of her mother, before shed return to her books and personal studies. She was largely uninvolved in the crisis that occurred during and immediately after the reign of Piero as Duke, happily working on her research. But in the aftermath, she was called upon by Belladonna to do her duty and use that keen mind to help rebuild the House to glory.
n mind to help rebuild the House to glory. +
Although she was born three years later th …
Although she was born three years later than her elder sister Viviana, in many ways the siblings were cut from the same cloth. They looked similar and both had a restless nature about them that made them ill-suited to the life of a typical lady. Yet where this led Viviana to seek physical challenges, it led Lianne in the opposite direction - to seek mental ones. Even from a young age, it was rare to be able to walk into Liannes chambers without having to step around scattered diagrams and models, or to not find her hard at work dissecting some sort of animal or another upon her fine, mahogany armoire. She was never able to settle on just one discipline, bouncing from one to the next almost every month, but her keen mind devoured them all. When she blossomed into a beautiful young lady, her mother was initially keen to marry her off for political advantage. Yet whenever a marriage offer seemed close, Lianne would instantly turn her mind to aiding in issues of politics, government or economics and prove so valuable that the marriage would be put off. Of course, this would last only until the risk was gone, to the great exasperation of her mother, before shed return to her books and personal studies. She was largely uninvolved in the crisis that occurred during and immediately after the reign of Piero as Duke, happily working on her research. But in the aftermath, she was called upon by Belladonna to do her duty and use that keen mind to help rebuild the House to glory. In the years since, Lianne has taken over leadership of the march of Nilanza, formed her own house, abandoned her Pravus legacy to remain with the Lyceum and even married well. Who knows if her mother is proud.
ed well. Who knows if her mother is proud. +
Amalthea is a paranoid woman of the woods …
Amalthea is a paranoid woman of the woods from a remote farm whose production is lead by crops and horses that were broken by her. She is a survivalist whose skills revolve around her knowledge of the harvest and hunt. No last name meant no family, she doesn't remember any either.
o family, she doesn't remember any either. +
Amber is one of those rare Arvum dwellers …
Amber is one of those rare Arvum dwellers who has spent time on the continent of Eurus, and even farther to the east - all the way towards the far sea - in the kingdom of Daobujin Bo. There she met her husband, Nisoi. Foreign stranger or not, he fell hard for Amber's exotic coloring and her soft, sweet laugh, and she was just as taken. Together, they dreamed of finding a safe route through the vastly uncharted seas to reach Arvum, opening up lines of trade between the distant, distant peoples. Nisoi died before that dream could be realized, but Amber made it home to Arvum, to the forests around Bastion. She's still committed to the dream she had with her love, and bears a few treasures from Daobujin Bo to sell so she can finance it.
Daobujin Bo to sell so she can finance it. +
Amongst tribes that are full of strong hun …
Amongst tribes that are full of strong hunters and warriors, Tove is a bit different. Where strength is valued, she uses intelligence. It's never been a particularly easy path, but having proven more than useful to the clan with her ability to help heal the wounded and aid the sick, she's made herself an asset rather than a liability. With the ability to handle herself with the traders made her place amongst her people all the more solid.
ace amongst her people all the more solid. +
Amorria's parents traveled a great deal, m …
Amorria's parents traveled a great deal, mainly to sell what they had made from what they gathered along their traveled. As a wanderer in her own sense, Amorria often would pretend to be more than just the commoner child she was. She would save every bit of nice looking fabric she had and drape herself in the knotted together scraps to form dresses and outfits that she imagined was the most beautiful. Her parents sheltered her for the most part, her father always being close by her side even as she grew into a young woman. Her mother, more often ashamed of her child's whimsical nature would often be seen walking in front or a few steps behind her husband and her daughter. Unless it was just herself and Amorria, in which case Amorria would be seem close by her side but with her head down and curious eyes never turning up from looking at her own feet. There is very little known about her family, or her, only that they never lingered long in more than one place and Amorria was not always seen in their company.
rria was not always seen in their company. +
An Orphans life is, generally speaking, no …
An Orphans life is, generally speaking, not a very nice one. The Tragedy Orphanage of the lower Boroughs is definately no exception. Overcrowded and underfunded, no one was happy to have another mouth to feed. Those who can afford to adopt rarely do, and those who do adopt usually do so out of necessity for an extra pair of working hands. As lovely as Lola was she became just another face shunted from house to house and back to the Tragedy again. Her only exception to the rule is that she was always happy to go, and always just as happy to return. Sometimes she would be fostered out for months, working with a fishmongers wife to gut and scale the catch of the day and she was happy for the work, for the new faces and the change of scenery. However, she was rarely kept for too long as food and money would simply become too meager to keep her on, so back she went. She loved the other children of the Orphanage and plied them with exagerated stories and little gifts whenever she could. If she ever had the fortune of coming across any kind of money, it was usually spent on them. She was simply a happy girl with a generous heart. She never had grand ides of where she came from or who she was. She was Lola of the Boroughs and that suited her just fine. As she grew older and began showing promise of a sharp intellect and various interests was taken on as apprentices by various shops around the city. She was always pleased to help out, and any coin she was given for her exceptional standards was almost immediately spent on clothes or books for the younger children of the orphange. Her only flaw, and one that proved to be dissapointing to many a merchant, was her complete and incompetent awkwardness when any of the Nobility entered a shop. She could barely string two words together and proved herself to be hopeless as a shop girl. Everyone hated sending her back to the orphanage, but they would often have no choice. They would give her what goods they could so she never returned empty handed - but she soon began to despaire of a future for herself. Then a stroke of luck was offered to her and she found an apprenticeship with Ferron Arms and Armor. Under the tutelage of Ida Ferron she found a niche that kept her just out of the limelight of the gentry and gave her hands something lovely to create. Despite her small build and frame she showed promise at smithing and hopes to one day be as skilled as Ida herself.
s to one day be as skilled as Ida herself. +
An immigrant, hailing from the poorest rea …
An immigrant, hailing from the poorest reaches. Another man looking to make his share in Arvum. Primarily working as a carpenter, but, often works small and frequent tasks and errands around town. He doesn't particularly specialize in much, and his life is mostly mundane, and so he's often been known to make his way through taverns and pubs and stir fights and chaos as a form of amusement to break up the monotony of peasantry life.
o break up the monotony of peasantry life. +
An old commoner focused primarily on shamanism and mystical assistance, Enya was adopted into House Blackram as a mystical advisor after giving spiritual council to a member. +
An only child, Nimm fled from an abusive h …
An only child, Nimm fled from an abusive home at the young age of ten. He was taken in by Delando, a travelling merchant who sold leather goods. During their seven years together, Delando taught Nimm the craft. Sadly, Delando was killed by highwaymen two years ago. Nimm narrowly escaped, and has a long scar on his left forearm to prove it.
long scar on his left forearm to prove it. +
An orphan of Abandoned raids, the boy who …
An orphan of Abandoned raids, the boy who would become known as 'Halsim' was taken in by the Darkwaters at a young age. Becoming one of the young house staff, assisting where requested. With so many different parts of the Redoubt accessible, it was only a matter of time before the young boy wanted a slice of the life the 'nobility' had, and started to pilfer little things here and there to sell. Becoming a skilled thief and spy, the boy built a reputation among the black market of the Darkwater domains over his teenage years. Sure, people noticed when things went missing, but the boy had learned the nooks and crannies of the Redoubt... and his small body allowed him to reach places the adults could not... so the game of cat and mouse that occasionally broke out continued. People took to calling him 'the wraith' for the way he just... disappeared. This, of course, came crashing down around him. One slip. All it took was one slip. By the time he was eighteen, he had outgrown one of his hiding places. It didn't take long for the Darkwater Guard to catch him, and for Draevor Darkwater to have him brought to him. Instead of executing the almost adult thief though... Draevor asked him if he was 'the wraith', that had been terrorizing his domain for years. The boy said nothing, but a momentary flinch told Draevor all he needed to know. So, he gave the boy a choice; only those guards in the chamber and Draevor himself knew he was caught. Renounce the petty thievery and learn the tradecraft of spies for the betterment of House Darkwater, or be put to the axe in a public execution a week from now. With little choice, Halsim accepted... and disappeared from the public eye. His old name? Forgotten. His old life? Forgotten. He was House staff once upon a time, but eventually, 'Halsim' emerged into the public eye two years later. Now a House scribe to the public, Halsim became one of Draevors spies... and within a year, his unofficial spymaster. This continued for a few more years, until a scandal was pinned of himself, and suddenly he was without a patron. Sensing it was time to move on, Halsim instead disappeared from the Darkwater lands and went to the Inquisition, having the talent and purpose of serving the Compact. In the decade that followed, Halsim has served the Compact and Inquisition well.
s served the Compact and Inquisition well. +
An orphan of Abandoned raids, the boy who …
An orphan of Abandoned raids, the boy who would become known as 'Halsim' was taken in by the Darkwaters at a young age. Becoming one of the young house staff, assisting where requested. With so many different parts of the Redoubt accessible, it was only a matter of time before the young boy wanted a slice of the life the 'nobility' had, and started to pilfer little things here and there to sell. Becoming a skilled thief and spy, the boy built a reputation among the black market of the Darkwater domains over his teenage years. Sure, people noticed when things went missing, but the boy had learned the nooks and crannies of the Redoubt... and his small body allowed him to reach places the adults could not... so the game of cat and mouse that occasionally broke out continued. People took to calling him 'the wraith' for the way he just... disappeared. This, of course, came crashing down around him. One slip. All it took was one slip. By the time he was eighteen, he had outgrown one of his hiding places. It didn't take long for the Darkwater Guard to catch him, and for Draevor Darkwater to have him brought to him. Instead of executing the almost adult thief though... Draevor asked him if he was 'the wraith', that had been terrorizing his domain for years. The boy said nothing, but a momentary flinch told Draevor all he needed to know. So, he gave the boy a choice; only those guards in the chamber and Draevor himself knew he was caught. Renounce the petty thievery and learn the tradecraft of spies for the betterment of House Darkwater, or be put to the axe in a public execution a week from now. With little choice, Halsim accepted... and disappeared from the public eye. His old name? Forgotten. His old life? Forgotten. He was House staff once upon a time, but eventually, 'Halsim' emerged into the public eye two years later. Now a House scribe to the public, Halsim became one of Draevors spies... and within a year, his unofficial spymaster. This continued for a few more years, until a scandal was pinned on him by Count Draevor to avoid public embarrassment, and suddenly he was without a patron. Sensing it was time to move on, Halsim instead disappeared from Darkwater lands and went to the Inquisition, having the talent and purpose of serving the Compact. In the decade that followed, Halsim has served the Compact and Inquisition well. Then Maxmillian Darkwater recalled Halsim back to House service just before the Silent War, and was convinced by the Count to investigate various matters for the House with a delicate hand. For various reasons, Halsim agreed, and his investigations commenced for many a month. Eventually though, he found what he was looking for; Soon after, Blackshore Keep was razed to ashes, with Max inside. Halsim has since returned to the business of safeguarding the Compact against threats both internal and external... and been adopted into House Darkwater as a proper Lord.
ted into House Darkwater as a proper Lord. +
An orphan that knew no parentage, Wynna gr …
An orphan that knew no parentage, Wynna grew up a street urchin that persisted off the generosity of others on Arx's streets. When she became old enough to get by without one guardian or another, she became a cut-purse that ran with multiple youth gangs as needed, drifting between the roles of distraction and thief in equal measure. It was here that she learned best how to keep herself subtle, manipulate people into getting what she wanted, and when all else failed how to run quickly. Things changed when she was attempting to steal the purse of an older Scholar of Vellichor - his spectacles had fallen and shattered in the attempt, and Wynna was struck by a bad case of sudden empathy. Abandoning her gang's scheme, she escorted the old fellow, Tristan, back to the Archive, where he proceeded to reveal that he knew her game, to question her unfortunate lot in life at such an early age. Influenced by his words and bearing (and importantly his not throwing her to a guard), she needed little convincing to take up an offer to learn to read and write. While she never quite lost her more conniving touch and her thrill for various rushes of dexterity or fast-talking, Wynna swiftly transformed into an insatiable amateur scholar. Obsessed with all things having to do with reading and writing, she savored the written word like drops of water to a woman dying of thirst. History became a passion as she learned of old places that were ill-visited, of tremendous events occuring in the past and how they may influence the future. She committed names to memory, dates and stories, much to the humble pleasure of her older tutor. While Tristan had to eventually move on to other pursuits and students, it was with some pride that he left Wynna to pursue her own ambitions of learning. Not content with simply being a scholar, Wynna yearned to experience adventure as well - to find the old places she learned of and to uncover their secrets, and to reveal things forgotten so that they might never be again. Her survival instinct as a former thief might yet save her life when her scholarly drive gets the better of her.
er scholarly drive gets the better of her. +
An unusual man with a very common origin, …
An unusual man with a very common origin, Lot isn't very forthcoming about his youth, but most believe he was born to a family of farmers in some unremarkable barony of the Grayson fealty. There was nothing notable about him other than being an especially big peasant boy, and there is no mention of him in any rolls until the Silent War. Among the masses of peasantry displaced by the advancing army, Lot reported for the levy as was his duty. He was good at soldiering. Most of it was just waiting around doing nothing: stand where you're told, wait there without fleeing, and if the other side came close enough, hit them until they all went away. He didn't overthink things. After the siege of Arx, he and his family went back home and found their village utterly gone. There were survivors who were intent on rebuilding, but having left his village for the first time and seen Arx, Lot wasn't enamored of the prospect. Having had a taste of the military life in the larger world, he wanted more. After growing up on a farm, the notion of being paid to just stand around and be bigger than everyone else was an alluring one, and Lot promptly fell in with a mercenary company he had met during the Great Siege. With typical middling peasant wit, he was oft nicknamed "A whole Lot" or "A-hole Lot" depending on the mood of the big man and his fellows. He's followed by a number of colorful rumors ranging from the curious (he once cut a horse in half with one swing, he sank a rowboat by stepping into it and refuses to fight on a ship again, he's a former Shav king) to the fantastic (he's descended from actual ogres, and his ancestors were cast out as traitors by an ancient king), but this much is true: if you've coin, Lot Medraut is for hire.
: if you've coin, Lot Medraut is for hire. +
Anders was born a lord of House Nightcove, …
Anders was born a lord of House Nightcove, a vassal of House Helianthus. He's spent his years in the loyally serving the Marquis of Eastcrest and rising steadily to the position of Voice and admiral of his family's naval forces. He has an immaculate and impressive career, and is personally responsible for claiming significant tracts of land for his house.
significant tracts of land for his house. +
Andrel was born the middle son of the Mont …
Andrel was born the middle son of the Monteaux family. He was considered the golden child of his family, and paraded around as the jewel of the Monteaux sons from his promising physical stature to his honorable demeanor. Despite this, when their father perished on a hunting accident, it was his older brother, ever envious of Andrel, that received the family wealth, and estate. He ensured Andrel received only enough to live on his own, but now Andrel has set off to make a name for himself in the Kingdom greater, independent of his brothers.
gdom greater, independent of his brothers. +
Andrina is the daughter of Andrew and Anas …
Andrina is the daughter of Andrew and Anastasia Thornborn-- a wealthy baker and his iron guard wife. Her mother and father pampered her and spoiled her (by commoner standards). She grew up in a nice home in the upper boroughs with a sheltered and rather idyllic life. Her parents encouraged her to follow her passions. She flittered around in several apprentices as a teenager before she finally landed on her true passion-- painting and sculpting. She knows how to sew, melt down an ingot, and how to tan leather but she doesn't really have much interest in it. No, instead, she would rather be reading stories of larger than life heroes and bringing those tales to life on a canvas or in marble.
se tales to life on a canvas or in marble. +
Andromeda has always been athletically inc …
Andromeda has always been athletically inclined, coordinated and possessed of a strong build. Her resilience, however, was something that needed work. She'd always been described as soft of heart, and while her mother assured her there was nothing wrong with that, she warned her about kindness and mercy. These are principles that warriors of Andromeda's caliber simply can't afford. Everyone who knew her growing up remembers a time in which the apprentice Sword was idealistic, maybe even naive. That all changed when she was taken captive during a battle waged against the enemies of Tremorus. A particularly brutal tribe of Abandoned spent months torturing her for information they could use to fight against their enemies in turn. She was never allowed a moment of peace, but they knew that at the very least their "noble" hostage needed to remain whole enough to be used in negotiations if it came down to it. Andromeda managed, after a lengthy confinement, to trick her gaoler into letting her out. When she got her hands on a sword, it was only a matter of time. She slaughtered everyone who got in her way, and then she slaughtered everyone else at the holding. They call it the Night of Long Screams, and it is a tale that has endured in the history of the Proscipi. When Andromeda returned to her people she wasted no time in informing her kinsmen of the knowledge she had gathered while being kept prisoner; enemy movements and other inside information that allowed them to smash the opposition on every front. In the final battle she fought their Champion one on one with the stipulation that the victor takes all -- despite the protestations of her brother Remus who felt it was pure folly. Andromeda's cold methodology and skill with a blade allowed her to carve through him like a cake. After which, of course, the rest of the clan quickly disarmed and bent the knee. The shattered blade of her foe remains on display in the museum of the Leporidae and since then she has become something of a ruthless pragmatic. After Tremorus and Leporidae bent the knee, she was introduced to the concept of the Champion's Guild, which quickly caught her mind, and fascinated her. It wasn't long before the Prodigal Champion joined their ranks, eager to find new ways of testing herself, and of emerging victorious.
sting herself, and of emerging victorious. +
Angelica comes from a branch of the Sanna …
Angelica comes from a branch of the Sanna family split free, obscurely referenced in Farshaw and fairly unremarkable. Several generations back, they settled in a small village north of the Redrain capital, called to an obscure purpose and excelling at it, tending sheep, mining, and joining the locals in their trade of bookbinding. Their success is a little above modest, the village able to support itself without much interference from the outside world, encouraging a work ethic that's reflect in their respected goods as well as their day to day. Angelica is a product of such a community, her calm demeanor rarely ruffled, her focus intense on whatever she sets herself to.
s intense on whatever she sets herself to. +
Annabella was fortunate enough to have bee …
Annabella was fortunate enough to have been born to the Grimhall family, and as such her upbringing was a bit more fortunate than a commoner child. Through she was raised with the proper etiquette and formalities of a noble, Annabella never much cared for the supposed worth in her noble blood, and instead found solace in libraries and apothecaries, where she could gather as much knowledge on healing and medication as possible, as she quickly found this to be her true passion. In her hands, the tools to save a life are just as valuable as the tools of war most of her Grimhalls employ in their tactics. Where that fails, she isn't too bad with a knife.
hat fails, she isn't too bad with a knife. +
Another day, another orphan, another life …
Another day, another orphan, another life into the Lowers. Perhaps Andry's parents are some line of royalty, perhaps great nobility runs through his blood, perhaps he's a bastard child of a former king, perhaps there's magic in his blood! Or perhaps his parents were just no ones who got ran off or killed and he's just another baby in the Tragedy of the Lowers. One of those being more likely than the others, Andry lived his life with pragmatism. An urchin and an orphan in the Lowers, Andry was quick to learn he couldn't make it alone. Not being a sizeable boy, he was not one who would survive many of the scraps that took place in the Lowers. So he found himself a big boy, an older boy, and endeared himself to him. Jeffeth Bayweather. The two took on the same surname, both of them without real families, two orphans decided they could be their own family. With Andry's wit and Jeffeth's brawn the two were able to survive the lowers and grow well enough. While Jeffeth was swayed by the stories of the Knights Solace, Andry made sure they had solid connections to the Cullers, a family with known criminal connections in the Lower Boroughs. He always appreciated the thought of just taking what you want in this world. And so he made sure to endear himself to the Cullers, that they would look upon him kindly. But when his adoptive brother became a fully Godsworn knight, Andry wasn't far behind. Becoming Godsworn meant a life being taken care of. Of course he had to become a bit more in tune with the Gods that he was originally inclined, and eventually he took a great liking to Gild. Feeling more of a kinship with the Goddess than he expected. While still much was expected of Andry, it was never very hard for him. Looking after his pocket of trusted individuals, Andry became a well known Knight of Solace, famed for his keen eye and sharp wit as well as the edge of his blades. Andry is always sure to keep those he is close to happy and safe. While they may be on either side of the tracks, Andry feels deeply indebted to both the Cullers and the Knights of Solace. Though now, his duty is to protect those who could not protect themselves. And hey, make some money on the side.
s. And hey, make some money on the side. +
Ansel knows that many are extremely jealou …
Ansel knows that many are extremely jealous of any noble that has the good fortune to be born the son of a powerful and influential duke, but all things the same he would have been much happier being raised a farmer's son. Duke Arn has a reputation as gruff, mean spirited, painfully blunt, callous, ruthless, often dishonorable, and unrelentingly unlikeable. And those are by his allies. Ansel, on the other hand, is the Duke's son who was born after a disappointing string of older siblings (who Arn never forgot to inform them of such) and then finally settling on his bookish, good natured, and gentle-hearted son. Those traits, of course, would simply not stand. Ansel's earliest memory was his first kindly tutor being put in stocks and publicly whipped before being exiled from the Telmarch for having the audacity to suggest that Ansel, with his love for book loving, would make a wonderful Scholar of Vellichor. It was a slight to suggest that any son of Arn's (and, still to date and much to Ansel's dismay, since his elder brother Tobias feld he receives most of this attention), would be anything but a ferocious warrior and ruthless knight to carry on the battle legacy of House Telmar and defend the Telmarch. Briefly, Ansel had the fond hope that his uncle Lord Everard would keep the position of Sword of the Telmarch and remain champion of the house, and allow Ansel to do anything but train relentlessly in the questionable art of killing people with sharp objects. Sadly, his father Duke Arn dashed those hopes, and made certain that Ansel knew (and repeatedly reminded him every day during brutal drills) that the sword was just in his uncle's keeping, and Ansel would be a great warrior and the new champion of the house when he came of age whether he liked it or not. And would of course represent the family in duels of honor and fights to the death if need be. And Ansel had better like it. The thing that really disturbs Ansel the most is he might even like being a knight if it wasn't for his father. Training with swords is fun, even if he prefers books and could probably have done without his father graphically describing just the best way to end an opponent's life in the most unnecessarily vivid detail. But even though he didn't ask for it and didn't particularly want it, he still he feels he could be a better Duke of the Telmarch on that fateful day when Arn finally dies, if for some reason the Duke passes over his siblings. He hopes he can be a better man. Ansel is pretty sure he can't be much worse.
sel is pretty sure he can't be much worse. +
Anyone could forgive Donovan's extended fa …
Anyone could forgive Donovan's extended family, those countless cousins, aunts and uncles, if their memory of the little Prince is somewhat lacking. It is easy to overlook a quiet younger sibling in the presence of their older, more socially apt and bright brother; not that Donovan was ever bitter over this fact. Donovan was never far from his brother's side, or just an arm's reach behind him, keeping quiet and trying to emulate even just a sliver of Calarian's gift with people. Children grow up though and Donovan eventually found his own fascination, and talent, in law. Lacking the usual Grayson heroic streak, Donovan wasn't interested in the 'guards and robbers', 'good guys catching the bad guys and being a hero' sort of law; rather the 'you know about this loophole, right?' sort. That he was exceptionally good at it came with its drawbacks; sharp wit and legalese made his adolescence almost unbearable for his parents. As an adult he refined his knowledge, and honed his wit for the benefit of his family acting as legal counsel on various affairs, all of which were handled with due discretion and settled quickly. He moved about the Crownlands with it, dealing in disputes and minor conflicts between vassal houses within the realm of the family's holdings. He may not have always made friends, but then, Donovan squared with himself a long time ago he is not here to be friends with people -- he is here as a representative of the law, and the law does not yield to emotion. Anyway, a person doesn't become a lawyer to be popular, do they? The city of Arx offers a great deal of opportunity for a young Prince, one of which, would be to make a name for himself outside of his own family within the various courts of the Compact. This at least, was what his mother informed him. Donovan is not quite so convinced; what with Calarian already present, being wonderful and casting an obnoxiously long shadow to stand in.
ng an obnoxiously long shadow to stand in. +
Anyone who is anyone should know the Varan …
Anyone who is anyone should know the Varano family. According to the Varano family, at least. Zetta is the matriarch of the family, having stepped into the role after her cousin recently died. This means that she now controls a small, but profitable, merchant family that has been operating around the Lyceum. They are known for being able to get things from point A to point B, and they are fairly typical when it comes to merchant families. Some might accuse them of being uppity for commoners due to the wealth they tend to flaunt. But despite that, there has never once been any indication that any member of the family has ever stepped foot out of their place. Not even rumors, it seems. Zetta herself is the third child, but the oldest remaining living child, of the previous matriarch of the family. Her mother ended up stepping down when she was having difficulty with her eyes, letting her sister's son take over the family and the business. Zetta, for her part, was married and busy being a mother and simply working as part of the well-run business of the family. She was never being eyed for taking over, never even seemed to want it. Until her cousin abruptly got sick and died. Of course, there were whispers and rumors...but it was proven fairly quickly that her cousin had in fact done the deed to themselves by eating the bad shell fish that came in off one of the boats. Everyone in the family had warned him about it, too. As appropriate, there was mourning as her cousin was well liked by everyone, including her. But business is business, and she stepped into the role. By now her children were old enough to be off on their own adventures, her husband was dead long years ago, and Zetta needed a new adventure of her own to occupy her time. So she decided to pick up stakes and head to Arx to see what she could find.
nd head to Arx to see what she could find. +
Anywhere else in the Compact, Donella woul …
Anywhere else in the Compact, Donella would have been born the heir presumptive to a great house. But she was not born anywhere but Maelstrom, and to no other family but Thrax in a time when only sons would rise. All the same, before the untimely deaths of good Prince Elton and Princess Dena, she was well-educated and trained to exemplify Thrax virtues. She learned to embrace ALL her heritage with clear-eyed realism, and learned statecraft, diplomacy, and economics, while her siblings were allowed more idealistic pursuits. Amongst a generation of war-orphaned princes and princesses, Donella showed the most early promise as an administrator and politician... or simply provided the best means to shame the princes, as Prince Donrai made her his Voice. Probably, some expected her to end as a cautionary tale, but instead she proved resilient. Her leadership went a long way toward stabilizing the Isles after her grandfather's death and the rise of another High Lord; one who also made her Voice, and later heir. Her time as Voice opened the way for women, as a proponent for the measured undoing of customs serving only to weaken, and divide the Isles from the rest of the Compact. It seemed Donella might standing behind the throne in the Isles forever, until she unexpectedly accepted an offer of marriage from Prince Darren Redrain of Farhaven. A smart match made, they say, for love of all things.
ch made, they say, for love of all things. +
Apollis was born in Granato and became the …
Apollis was born in Granato and became the eldest brother of four. Through his whole childhood he'd have to endure constant scrutiny and suspicion, much deserved. He was a hellion and rabble rouser. He was often the one inciting others to fight rather than being the one to get into a fight. Then during the chaos he'd make off with the coin purses. He'd often go off on his own urban 'adventures' where he'd come across 'hidden treasure' just sitting around. While his sisters were content with a different kind of adventuring he was often playing with Abandoned children and getting into places he had no business being in. After growing up a little the boy mostly put aside his troublemaking ways but his path was definitely chosen. He wasn't going to be a stuffy noble do-nothing. He was going to go out and experience things. That's why his match to his Malvici love was so opportunistic. They both shared a love of treasure hunting - some might call it grave robbing and ruin looting. They traveled all over Arvum together before she was suddenly befallen with a strange illness. In a matter of days she had died in the Northlands during one of their adventures. Once again Apollis was met with scrutiny and suspicion on his eventual return to Southport. He wondered if he'd ever live it down or if anyone would offer him the comfort he needed in his time of mourning. Unsatisfied with how he was being treated he left once again to find his fame and fortune in Arx.
again to find his fame and fortune in Arx. +
Appolonia is the daughter of Isabella Prav …
Appolonia is the daughter of Isabella Pravus, a minor daughter of that great house, and Admando Seraceni, a seasoned corsair who died of an infection in war with the Argento. From a young age, Appolonia struggled against the restraints of knowledge. What happens when we grow older? Why are some things hidden from us, for "when we are older" or never at all? What dangers does such information hold? How can we prepare for these dangers if we don't know any better? (Such latter lines of thought spoke of a budding talent for social manipulation.) Appolonia sought to spite her tutors, learning more by her womanhood than many of the highborn learn in their entire lives. She soon exhausted the stock of common knowledge, although she retains it and deploys it at her command. She sought the restricted, the unknown, the hidden. To know that which few, or no-one else knew. It was the only way to be... Safe. Mother encouraged this. Mother helped her daughter learn the hidden ways, such as they were. Some people in Seraceni raised their eyebrows, but Isabella's grace and charm poured oil over ruffled feathers. (Is that the analogy? Ducks have oil, you know, in their tails. When they preen, they're smearing it over themselves.) Appolonia struggled with the new Marquis, Dario, on this matter. Her occult studies were a rift between them. Of course, such matters have moved along, although she is often feared in a subtle way within the household. Whispered about, but never to. Less cryptically, Appolonia is also fascinated with tales of foreign lands, although she has taken a special interest in Eurusi culture and fashions and more. She is fluent in the Eurusi language (if perhaps not perfect - few people to practice with in Arx) and hopes to travel the world, one day - perhaps simply as a tourist, perhaps as more. Appolonia wants to find something - not simply power, or wealth, or even love, though she is no ascetic. She seeks something else. She herself has trouble articulating it... or reluctance; and the two are awfully hard to tell apart.
nd the two are awfully hard to tell apart. +
Arcadia, Cady to her family, had the misfo …
Arcadia, Cady to her family, had the misfortune of being born into an incredibly loving family who had the bad grace to be uniformly bookish and scholarly. Where her family enjoyed lengthy dinner discussions about the newest research one of her siblings was engaged in, Arcadia thought she would much rather stab herself with a fork repeatedly; at least it would be more exciting. She had the best of tutors, so long as the tutoring was in history or science or theology. Instead, she longed for tutors of her own choosing: swordmasters, adventurers, hunters, sailors, knights! Over the years (and often with the help of formal presentations created by her sister Elloise), Arcadia would lobby her well-meaning parents to allow her one of these. Any of these! Just pick one! And they finally relented. A bit. Arcadia was allowed to train once a week under one of Leaholdt's hunters. Off with him in the woods, a bow in her hand, stealthy and on the hunt - that's where Arcadia spent her happiest childhood years. But still, she longed for more. More to do! More to see! More to try! As Cady got older, Elloise started recruiting her for help with her scientific experiments. Cady didn't particularly care about the experiments or their results, but she was all too happy to run off to hunt down whatever rare ingredients her sister might need for them. An adventure! Or as much adventure as one can get in Leaholdt, anyway. And when Elly started petitioning their parents to send her to Arx, Arcadia threw herself in with her. "It will be fine!" she promised. "Elly and Fairen will make sure I stay out of trouble!" Arcadia knows it's only because of Elloise and Fairen that she's being allowed to go, but who cares! She's on her way! An endless world of possibilities await her, and a city full of people to teach her things!
a city full of people to teach her things! +
Arcelia was born in the Saikland Greens to …
Arcelia was born in the Saikland Greens to Giovanna and Aaron Saik where she was raised until she was twelve years old, spending a couple months a year down in Southport. During her early childhood it was discovered that she had a talent for performance, specifically dancing. The lady was a fun loving type of woman and being raised as a noble around many warriors she developed a love for being beautiful and for adventure. She loved playing in the mud, throwing it at anyone she wanted to get to play with her. Likewise, she enjoyed climbing trees and jumping out of them at her friends. And eventually she learned to enjoy sailing as well. She loved playing with the other Malvici and Saik children when she was able, tagging along with the older kids and terrorizing some of them with mud when she was able. She was attentive and loved to learn but she could never sit still, swaying and dancing while she listened to lectures. Though, this did not stunt the woman's ability to pick up the skills she needed and in fact made it easier for her to learn. Arcelia had a strong relationship with her two siblings growing up. Estaban developed a very protective side for Arcelia, his beloved outlook on her always keeping danger away. Even from lovers in her teen years. She was close to her sister as well, the two of them being close enough in age to have played with one another in their youth. When she was twelve years old she moved to Nilanza where she was fostered by the Argento. Salazar Argento seeing that she got a good education so that she could be a future diplomat. She had some rare but very valuable encounters with Venta Darkwater(Venta Argento), seeing the woman for some of her educational needs whenever the woman was there and available to tutor the young girl. She learned how to sail with the Argento as well, Salazar being one who ensured she was able to nourish her adventurous side. Estaban Saik and two women assisted in teaching Arcelia when they were in the area as well. The two women teaching Arcelia how to be a stronger woman as she faced dangerous storms and lecherous sailors. During Arcelia's time in Nilanza she met many people and created many bonds. She became known there for being overly curious and difficult to keep a watch on, the girl sneaking out to spend time away where she could explore and learn about the world. Though by the time she was sent home Arcelia was a bit more tame, time having taken its course in helping her grow up a bit... but only a bit. When Arcelia was sixteen years old she returned to the Saikland Greens and her family. It was felt that her education there was complete and that the best way for her to continue her growth was to go out and test her skills directly. She was told to be patient and seek out a good mentor for future training, someone who would help give her real experience as a diplomat. Over the years she has never attempted to approach anyone, so far as it is known, about this. When Arcelia was back home again she spent a lot of time missing Nilanza and the friends she had made there. As a result, she went through a small period of depression, adapting again within a few months and finding the joys once experienced as a young girl. Arcelia refused any conversation of marriage for years, only coming to terms with the idea in recent months. Though, the idea of falling in love was one she openly said she did not want to do, going as far as to beat a boy who spoke to her in poetry until he agreed not to pursue her heart anymore. She had no desire to marry and would do so only for her family and love was a scary thing that caused her friends and family pain, she vowed that she would not fall in love until she was married. It was the silly hope of a naive young girl who did not understand that the heart has no master. While she was in the Saiklands, Arcelia did a lot of volunteer work. She helped secure resources and jobs for people in need. Food, water, and medicine being brought to people directly by the young noble. She even helped people find jobs and shelter and watched over children when their parents were ill, finding them new homes when parents passed away. Recently, Baroness Kima called for Arcelia to join her in Arx, the woman having some plans for the girls future. There are whispers that the young Arcelia is here to search for a husband as well as aid her family in diplomatic matters.
l as aid her family in diplomatic matters. +
Archene is a thrall from Cielos Encantador …
Archene is a thrall from Cielos Encantadores, an island that is part of Darkwater Reach. Son of an apothecary and a dockworker, he was apprenticed to his mother, from whom he got his love for perfumes above other crafts a proper apothecary must learn. During his childhood, he met and befriend the local Lord's youngest daughter, Ariel Darkwater, who was only a years younger than himself. After years helping his mother, he soon obtained enough to buy his way out of thralldom. And having heard that his noble childhood friend moved away to Arx, he gathered the resources he accumulated for a few months before setting off.
lated for a few months before setting off. +
Archeron was born about 15 minutes before …
Archeron was born about 15 minutes before his sister Lethe, and thus, born both the oldest and a Tyde Lord, the mantle of 'being the responsible one' was given to him at birth by both his mother and father. From infancy the notion that he is would be responsible for caring for and protecting the family imbued all of his early life lessons. When the twins were 6 years old, their mother Lady Gilda, took them to visit her birth family the Ashfords just before the onset of the Tyde Rebellion and upon hearing of the death if their father, Lord Raymond Tyde, the three were all quietly absorbed into the Ashford family without a word to anyone and there they stayed for the next 13 years. For entirely different reasons than his sister, Archeron flourished in the Grey Forest, there seemed to be something right to him about steady ground under his feet that he had never experienced in the unsteady world of ships and sea. He climbed trees with his cousins, learned to hunt and track game as a boy and for many years it seemed as he would fall comfortably into the life of a ranger and warden. And then the Silence came to the Grey Forest. Archeron served with the rest of the Ashford rangers to stave off the vile corruptions that wished to destroy his home and for this he is marked forever having gotten caught up in the thorny whip wielded by one of their Shav minions before he was able to put an arrow in underling's eye. When the war ended, the world changed again when word reached them that their father's family had been restored under the union of his cousin Duchess Margot and the former prince and heir to Maelstrom and Archeron's mother asked that he go with his sister to Arx to rejoin their birth family, saying that their opportunities may be better there where they can be what they were board to be. The truth is Archeron aches for the forests he knows and understands already but he knows that his reprieve is over, it is time to pick up the role he was born for to be the protector of not just his sister but his family again.
not just his sister but his family again. +
Argos is from humble beginnings, but all h …
Argos is from humble beginnings, but all he has really wanted to do in his like is to become a knight. He left his family's farm the first shot he got to start training, despite his father's protests. He has spent his whole life training for the chance to show some noble that he is better than any knight despite his rank. He quickly developed his fighting abilities and got noticed by a guard. He then got proper training and a job. After a year or two he left this post to seek out a proper lord to serve. To Argos nothing is more important than the his duty.
thing is more important than the his duty. +
Aria was the sort of child who loved to sw …
Aria was the sort of child who loved to swordfight with sticks, sneak into the pantries, terrorize the maids, and climb the trees. Her health declined as she grew toward the age of ten, however, and as she spent less tiem outside she spent more studying and endearing herself with the household. She's become a conscientious woman who often acts in her uncle's stead as a representative of House Gilden or manages the household when he is away. Arianna is one of the likely choices for heir as he seems unlikely to have children. Much remains to be seen, of course. She is known to be dependable and conscientious, as well as bright. While she'll never be athletic Arianna's health seems to have improved and she'll take walks and join for parties that she didn't as a youth.
in for parties that she didn't as a youth. +
Arianna is the only daughter in the Stonew …
Arianna is the only daughter in the Stonewood family. She was born to her mother who was a proper Lady from a vassal house in the Lyceum, Lady Vayla Pravus. Her father being the Count of Stonewood himself, until he died and her eldest brother Malesh inherited the title. She grew up with a fascination for culture and anthropology. Always a people watcher and a clever girl from the start, she learned how to read before she was able to walk and she spoke quite early. She was pale of skin and fair, her family could not be more proud of their newest addition. Though she was never directly subject to the pressures of her family, their reputation as the reigning house from Pride Hall to Whitehawk was an immense weight to bear. Arianna learned the subtlies of people's mannerisms and customs, the way they held themselves when they were proud or broken. The little tells that people had when they were lying. All of these aspects of psychology intrigued her and she quietly learned by throwing herself into the proverbial lions den. Having been born to the courts and becoming intimately familiar with it, she realized her natural talent at finding out what people needed and providing it for them. Arianna cultivated favors like a farmer cultivates his crop. While the young woman had briefly considered many different vocations, none was more intriguing than that of truth seeker. Or scholar. Though that didn't stop her from also being intrigued by the possibility of becoming a linguist, diplomat, expert on esoterica, or an investigator and skilled in martial pursuits. All in all quite an eclectic array of interests for someone so young, but none the less she has used her talents to further her family's ambitions. While she traveled Arvum for the first time she discovered many interesting things but truly only ended up with more questions than answers. Ever loyal to the causes she devotes herself to, in the time that she has come to the city she has joined several organizations and devoted herself to helping the city thrive after it's most recent tragedies.
y thrive after it's most recent tragedies. +
Arianna was born the only daughter in the …
Arianna was born the only daughter in the Stonewood family, born to a Lycene mother from Setarco. Lady Vayla Pravus instilled a lot of herself in her daughter and insisted on raising her child in the Lyceum. It was an unusual request, all things considered, seeing as it was in Lenosia and not Setarco that the girl was raised. Alongside other notables within House Velenosa like her Pravus cousins and Luca, the little Crownlander existed practically as a member of the fealty. She spent summers in Setarco and learned about the paramount House of the Silken City while she did so but rarely did she ever return to the lands of the House which she and her mother owed fealty. Her brothers and cousins in House Stonewood were not too keen of this but her father did not seem to mind it so and nothing was done about it until the man died and the Marquis Malesh took his place. She was summoned back to the House and parted ways with her mother who did not wish to return to a that House when she was welcome back in Setarco. Arianna's return was met with mixed feelings but her clever ways and principled upbringing in the Lyceum made her savvy and a useful advisor to her brother whom soon after appointed her his Voice. For a long while she did an excellent job at this, staying out of court politics and tending to the affairs of her lands that had belonged to her father. She was unhappy with her place in life and took to many hobbies to fill the voice, in time these hobbies became pursuits and these pursuits into careers. Trained in the Ministry of Defense as an Agent, working as an Investigator with the Iron Guard, spending time in the archives with Scholars, and even going so far as joining a company of sellswords that fought in many of the Compact's most recent wars. Being a famous sellsword and having a penchant for dark humor didn't win her many friends, but since she did so well in her duties as Voice that the public backlash for her activities and penchant for scandal washed over her brother like water off a duck's back. Of course, this put tension on the relations between native Stonewoods and this Lycene girl in Crownlands clothing. Inquiries were made and loyalties were tested and ultimately the House was better served without her leadership, and even if her brother hadn't decided on this for her - the Pravosi girl threw in the chips and stepped down not just in Stonewood but elsewhere. She withdrew from the world at large and returned to Stonehearth to, presumably, attend Reform School. It's the worst kind of punishment for Lycene, especially when attending an institution with dour matrons and delinquent Crownlander nobles. Suffice to say upon her return Arianna was quite well behaved and leaned even more so upon her Lycene upbringing. She left Stonewood to join Fireviper as the Sword of Cinder at her brother Gailin's request but even still she grew more distant from the Crownlanders and looked to home. Eventually the Count of Fireviper released her from her oath of fealty so she could return to Pravus and so she did.
she could return to Pravus and so she did. +
Arianwen can be maddeningly tight-lipped a …
Arianwen can be maddeningly tight-lipped about her past, but can anyone really blame a Lower Boroughs girl for her privacy? Especially one that grew up in the rowdiest and darkest slums in the lowliest section of Arx? Nevertheless, most know by now that Chanse Grayhope either practically raised her, or perhaps he just happened to be nearby while she grew up on her own. Whatever the truth, she often casually introduces herself with the Innkeeper's family name appended. Regulars at the Murder of Crows would have also heard something terribly unkind occurred to her biological parents, which caused her to experience a short stint as a street urchin before her double digit years, and before appropriating a room at the inn. These days, she's happy to make a living as the preeminent tavern maid for the underbelly of Arx - singing numerous merry tunes, demanding the compliance of drunken ne'er-do-wells, and making a pretty penny washing clothes or tending to bar brawl injuries on the side. Famous for her beauty and the melodramatic stories sung of her by sea-bound sailors, it is the rare individual that dares to truly harm the beloved Star-Eyed River Nymph of Arx.
the beloved Star-Eyed River Nymph of Arx. +
Ariel is the the youngest daughter to a Lo …
Ariel is the the youngest daughter to a Lord of Darkwater and a Lady who was from the noble family of Moonriver. She has an older sister and an older brother but sadly their mother died while birthing little Ariel. Their father, Santiago, had much sorrow when this occurred. Due to the sadness that was caused by the loss, the fact they were living at Darkwater Watch made things easier for her father, Ariel took up dancing as her passion. Now her father has sent her to Arx to assist her cousin Max with whatever he will need. She is quite excited to explore the city, though not to eventually seek out a husband as he father wishes. All on her mind is family, dancing and the sea being her only mistresses for the time being. She is quite the little social butterfly and absolutely adores throwing parties.
ly and absolutely adores throwing parties. +
Arion Harrow is the youngest of a rather l …
Arion Harrow is the youngest of a rather large family with ancestors who were Prodigal. Growing up in the Lower Boroughs with his siblings and grandfather after his parents died was exceptionally hard on the gentle tempered yet sharp minded boy. He was often the target of the other boys who found the weak bodied Arion and his long red hair all to easy to pick on. However the crimson haired boy was fast on his feet and charming enough to convince some of the older boys to 'discourage' his bullies. Arion learned at an early age to be creative and charming to get things done. An inquisitve child Arion often found himself exploring outside of the Lower Boroughs. The fact that his kneen sense of smell and vanity drove him to take great pains to keep his appearance clean and neat helped him not look too out of place as he explored the finer parts of the city. He managed to catch the attention of a local apothecary who worked in the Ward of the Compact and after a few years of running errands and doing chores, the man finally agreed to teach the young Arion his art Arion enjoyed learning. It started a near obsessive desire for knowledge in his mind and after his mentor taught him how to read and write he began exploring every text he found interesting. His mentor had studied several subjects and Arion enjoyed learning about as many of them as he could The next few years were spent in quite study until the young man came of age and was deemed a proper apothecary in his own right. Now he is trying to make his own way, either by starting up a shop of his own once he has the funds or by offering his services to another. While he remains somewhat untraditional for a Harrow, he has still kept good relations with most of his siblings as well. Now he just has to make a name for himself and prove that even though he has no desire to oin the Iron Guard like his ancestors he can still be useful.
like his ancestors he can still be useful. +
Armani is one of the children of Kordelia …
Armani is one of the children of Kordelia Gilden. She was, most assuredly, a child of the seas. Almost before she could walk and talk Armani was making her way onto boats and trying to travel out to the seas, to feel the wind on her face and to taste the salt on her tongue. Her life was devoted to becoming a Captain of the Sea, though, her mother felt the need to assure Armani had a feminine touch to her and built up her interest in shiny things as well as got her into scholarly things. This divided Armani's love into four things: jewelry, the sea, reading, and writing. As she proved to be a skilled seaman she quickly rose through the ranks of the Gilden naval forces to become the Admiral of the fleets.
orces to become the Admiral of the fleets. +
Around Bastion and in the Grayson manor, s …
Around Bastion and in the Grayson manor, she's known as Aunt Julia. No one can quite remember how exactly they're related to her, and most just assume it's so far out on the fringe as to not matter. And so this older Grayson has simply taken on the name of Aunt Julia. Most of the younger generation can probably remember a time when they've sat with her around a fire, eating sweets and listening to harrowing tails of ghost stories or of her adventures throughout the Gray Forest and Beyond. And do no be fooled into thinking that the stories she weaves do not have at least some measure of truth to them. Julia has spent her life working as a kind of bounty hunter, feeling drawn to the work. It's not escaped prisoners she looks for though, but the requests of towns who have nowhere else to turn for assistance. It's the strange adds in taverns advertising a basilisk in a nearby swamp; the village that claims to be haunted by the damned undead; or the hamlet that's known no sleep since the banshee wail begins. Most folks would tell you those things are fictional. The ghosts were just prospectors trying to run off the locals from a silver mine. The basilisk was some large lizard. And most of the time Julia would just smile and say, "Of course, but the work needed doing." Most of the time. Then, a few years back, Julia surprised the family by announcing one day she was taking her Godsworn vows. Since then she's been in service to the Pantheon, mostly hanging out with the Harlequins and the other Death Priests. She had a real calling for it. When asked she'd mostly joke it was all the years she'd spent ghost hunting, only now she got to do it in the service of a goddess.
got to do it in the service of a goddess. +
Arta Fatchforth, a daughter of the industr …
Arta Fatchforth, a daughter of the industrious Fatchforth family. She was born and raised in a farming community among farmers. Her education and skills have been very much effected by this, she is also the adoptive big sister of Sparte Fatchforth whom she used to torment relentlessly during their time together most often beating him in a competition or another being six years his senior. Growing up she became a stablemaster of some skill and renown for having a natural way and a bond with animals. She was also more or less skilled in herblore which led to her developing a secondary career in medicine. However her medical career wasn't as prominent as her stable.
career wasn't as prominent as her stable. +
Arthen Dayne's life was always going to be …
Arthen Dayne's life was always going to be a thing of stories, whether he was telling them, or part of them, or chasing them into the wild forever of the great unknown. Even his origins were a mysterious thing, brimming with potential for tales. Quite simply, he showed up at the front door of an orphanage in Arx, swaddled in wool and furs, with a small pouch of silver and a short note that was light on helpful information and a bit thick about pleading to the establishment that he should be taken care of. And so he was. Mostly. At least until he could get around on his own. Arthen grew into a child full of questions, held captive by the wonder of the world around him. No rock ever went unturned, even if the better of some of those rocks ended up in his pocket for the sake of mischief or self-defense. It can be hard being half-raised by the streets, and harder still when your natural inclination is to get into anything you shouldn't. As much as curiosity was a part of his life, so too was trouble. Even so, while the ruffian's want for answers would carry him across the width and breadth of Arx, it would carry him also into books, and those books would carry him across the rest of Arvum, in time. Though a young Arthen Dayne loved daring stories of adventure, it was the histories that really set him on his path. Or rather, the realization that they didn't just lie in dusty old tomes, but happened out in - and as part of - the world, and so many of those histories were unfinished, forgotten, or just plain wrong. If there were things yet left to be discovered or corrected, Dayne decided he would be the one to do it. His intentions were entirely altruistic and for the sake of knowledge, no matter what some rumors said or how many times he might have secretly fenced off an importart part of cultural history to a private collector for considerable sums of silver. A man has to eat, after all. Years before those with an exploratory bent were formalized into an actual society, Arthen's tenacious hunger for glory and uncovering the lost past brought him to all corners of Arvum, mostly working independently for the highest bidder so he could afford to also work on his own personal projects. Eventually a chance encounter and some shared stories with Darren Redrain would land the lifelong adventurer a place in Redrain's fealty as a personal historian and acquisitions specialist for the north's Greatest House. During the Siege of Arx, Dayne disappeared without a word, presumed dead, and remaining as such until the Winter of 1009 AR, when he returned more full of tales than ever. Though he looked a bit older, and life had roughed him up a little, that was all that had changed. No danger was still too great for him, no mystery too small, and he carried a thirst to uncover them all. To the last.
thirst to uncover them all. To the last. +
Arthur Russo was born into a very impoveri …
Arthur Russo was born into a very impoverished part of Southport. His father was a brute, thief and compulsive gambler, while his mother was addicted to a handful of very terrible drugs. The fact that he managed to get out of that life and into a better one is a miracle in and of itself, since he knowsd of more then a few people from his old home that never did. When he was about seven the abuse got too rough, and he finally fled home. He ended up an urchin, begging and stealing and doing odd jobs to live. During one especially rough winter he snuck into a leatherworker's home and tried to steal some food. He was caught by the man and his wife. They took pity on him and brought him in. They had been trying, unsuccessfully, for children for several years, and saw this as a chance. The two were stern, but loving, and Arthur became the man's apprentice. It turned out Arthur was a natural, and he loved the work. He adored other forms of creation as well, whether cooking or other things, and he took strongly to the faith of Jayus. He considers him a personal patron, and he tries to live his life by his teachings (Though he charges for his work). Eventually he was doing many of the more intense works for his 'father', though often the credit was given to his master, since he was a credited leatherworker, and not some young apprentice. Eventually a member of the Malvici came to the area, and he made her an incredible set of leathers. She discovered it was really Arthur that did the work, and she made a mental note of it. Years later, Arthur began his military service, and the Malvici saw some of his more recent work. She arranged things for him to serve the House as a smith for his military service, and now here he is...
is military service, and now here he is... +
Artorius grew up in Southport along with t …
Artorius grew up in Southport along with the rest of his Malvici cousins and his sister Caelis. Like all who grow up in this regimented military meritocracy, he easily found his way to the sword. Childhood was fairly easy for him, but that all changed during the Tor-Southport war. Not quite old enough to fight, and not young enough to forget, Artorius was permanently shaped by the events of that conflict. As time moved on and Artorius' travels eventually lead him to the southern end of the Gray Forest, where he had the fortune to run into a Lady Victoria Ashford. She with her sly passionate way about things seemed to lure him in almost immediately. It wasn't long before the two of them were wed. Their marriage was blessed with a child shortly thereafter. A little girl they named Serah. Only two years after Serah's birth, Lady Victoria Ashford contracted an illness and died. Her death left Artotius absolutely heartbroken. He wandered Arvum for a few years, coming home to visit with his daughter as often as his broken heart would allow. It was only when he had heard his sister was called to help the Malvici family in Arx that he too decided it was time to pick up his blade in service of the family once more. Taking Serah with him this time, her journeyed to Arx in hopes of making a difference on the Compact's war efforts.
a difference on the Compact's war efforts. +
Artur was a happy child, with the joy and …
Artur was a happy child, with the joy and energy of a young boy raised by parents with a good balance of benevolent distance and bland-edged discipline. His closest supervision was from a crotchety old shaman whose stories evolved as Artur aged, retaining his attention cleverly by incorporating more boogers and farts once Artur reached a certain age, and peppering his storytelling with blood and guts liberally throughout his childhood. Indoors, Artur had a little sister to equal parts torment and defend; outdoors, he had worlds to conquer, many of them entirely fueled by his own mind. As a boy, every day of his was filled with imagination games. One day he would be an evil wizard bent on world domination -- "please make sure you clean your hands and wash behind your ears when you're done building your sorcerous tower, dear" -- and the next day, a shining beacon of purity and light, showing the world the benefits of a true paladin -- "what a clever sword, Artur, did you make it from a stick?" -- and the day after, a secretly infiltrated dwarf agent, stealthing through the manor with daring surreptitiousness -- "we can see you hiding under the table, my prince, as I'm afraid your boots are sticking out." As he grew and learned his lessons and studied with swordmasters and trained in (oh no) etiquette like a good prince, his imagination games grew no less colorful, if they grew subtler; in his teen years, his flights of fancy he kept to scribblings in his journal, artistic translations of this visiting diplomat into an elven infiltrator bent on seducing his mother, or that complex arithmetic economics problem being illustrated with dragons and eggs instead of sacks of grain. He doodled constantly, and made stories in his head, and although he wasn't secretive about them, he became aware as he moved towards adulthood that they were -- if not childish things to be put aside -- private treasures to be kept to those he trusted. "Today, I shall go on a hunt," would be his itinerary, and then instead, while hunting pheasant he would imagine himself agriffonback, chasing the winged terror of a dragon marauding the countryside. "Today, I shall go with my father to an important meeting," would be the plan, and in his head, one of the councillors was replaced by a luring mirrorborn with destuctive appetites (the drawing from that day was paticularly spooky and splendid). Yet still, even as he grew to adulthood, his imagination pictures stayed with him. Even today, as he rides towards the capital, he imagines himself alive with derring-do, questing for adventure, rather than doing what he is supposed to do exactly, which is go to Arx and support the North's political, economic and military goals potentially by securing an alliance somewhere in the Southlands.
g an alliance somewhere in the Southlands. +
Arturo's sire was a drifter, and drift he …
Arturo's sire was a drifter, and drift he did. He was in Arx just long enough to knock up Arturo's mother, a lower-class Grayhope. His mother was a performer, singing in taverns, acting small parts in the theatres, and cooking and cleaning when she needed more to feed herself and child. Despite the reputation of her family, Arturo's mother never was one to dabble in the shady side of things. As a youth, he shared his time between roaming the streets and following in the footsteps of his mother, learning to sing, read music, and play instruments. He grew talented at it, as well, earning enough to make his way as a poor bard. He had the potential to attract a patron, and continue such a career. And then he smoked his first bowl of dust... Everything changed after that. No amount of coin could keep enough of the drug for him, and the poor income he earned from being a bard certainly couldn't. Situation forced his hand. It was at that point that Art turned to his cousins, seeping into the darker side of the Grayhope family. Addiction fueled him. Always desperate for his next fix, he became willing to do whatever was asked of him.
e willing to do whatever was asked of him. +
As a boy, Baldessare's energy was often st …
As a boy, Baldessare's energy was often stoked by the fires of competition. Reared on legends of his House and often witness to the efforts - academic and athletic - of his cousins, he always wanted to prove that he was as good as any of them, and frequently pushed himself to terrible extremes to prove himself. Especially as an adolescent, he pushed himself. He wanted to be the top of his class, the best fighter, the best racer, the best everything, but of course, the perfection that he demanded of himself was impossible, and in those days, he threw fits and tantrums often, furious that he wasn't measuring up to his own self-image. Eventually, he settled down and evened out. The perfectionism would remain with him, but it was tempered by reality, an understanding of human limitations, and the patience of tutors. The older he grew, the more he demonstrated focus, and fierceness. He learned to control his temper and to channel it, so that the outbursts grew fewer and further between. His favorite way to blow off steam was on horseback, and he would ride out in solitude for hours, communing with the animals and feeling the freedom of their gait beneath him. His father took both Benedetto and Baldessare to sea in their early teens to teach them how to behave, and assigned their squirage as cabin boys on several voyages that were designed to look more adventurous and exciting than they were. Baldessare stuck to his father's elbow like glue, wanting to learn everything there was to learn about being a sea captain and caring for his men as a protector and a commander. He also learned that grog will knock you on your ass, especially when you're fifteen. As an adult, his generally attentive and ambitious nature proved useful to the family, as would that of any aspiring, aggressive military officer with an eye for horseflesh. As his sister's social star climbed in Arx, he and Benedetto were dispatched to Arx. Baldessare has high ambitions for demonstrating his prowess in service of his House. As far as he is concerned, the capital hasn't seen anything yet.
ned, the capital hasn't seen anything yet. +
As a boy, Benedetto often skated on the ve …
As a boy, Benedetto often skated on the very edge of trouble. Refinement was far from his reach, particularly at the beginning. But with a father who was frequently at sea, he and his identical twin brother, Baldessare, were reared largely by the house staff of the Lenosia estate, children bearing witness to the development and elevation of cousins with blood closer to the main line - and wards of no particular good blood at all. Benedetto cut his teeth on legends of cunning and cleverness and lagged behind his brother's academic achievements. He got into trouble constantly for being too forthright, too open in anger or in contempt or in confidence. He masked little, and had to be trained better - "What kind of Fox even are you, boy?" was a common refrain around the schoolroom. The older he grew, the more his energy came to be channeled into performative behavior, mugging and imitating his betters in ways that would have been more insulting if he didn't have such a knack for heart-melting puppydog eyes. His father took both boys to sea in their early teens to teach them how to behave, and assigned their squirage as cabin boys on several voyages that were designed to look more adventurous and exciting than they were. Benedetto was quickly a favorite of the men for his willingness to scale rigging like a monkey and do just about any jig or dance they came up with in exchange for nothing more than a kind word. He also learned that grog will knock you on your ass, especially when you're fifteen. As an adult, his generally biddable (if lazy) and flashy entertaining nature proved useful to the family primarily in social situations. As his sister's social star climbed in Arx, he and Baldessare were dispatched to Arx. Benedetto suspects that there may be marital plans in his future, but maybe he'll prove as talented at deflecting those as he has at everything else permanent. You never know!
everything else permanent. You never know! +
As a boy, Lord Elyid was sent to populate …
As a boy, Lord Elyid was sent to populate House Acheron as another ward of his cousin Mydas. Following the revelation of his caretaker's princely status, it was decided that Elyid would remain at the Glacial Fortress for stability's sake rather than return to Stonedeep. Despite not being much older than him at all, Marquessa Rhea came to be Elyid's legal guardian until he came of age. It was, according to Elyid, the longest three and a quarter months of his entire life. Despite no sibling or parent bothering to share a similar claim, Elyid enjoys anecdotally touting out dramatized rumors of his familial relation to the fallen House Aviaron. While it could be argued that ANYONE with Nightgold blood could make such statements regarding Aron Nightgold's fallen line, nobody's ever bothered to contradict Elyid on his insinuated exclusivity. Oh, it's never the same! Sometimes he's a third cousin and sometimes, he's a second cousin once removed. The important thing to remember is that Rhea's got his total support. She's, uh, like a mother to him! With the construction of the Whisper Palace of Aviaron's Peak, Elyid has taken full advantage of his family's position. He's among the first crop of Northerners to receive an education in refinement, beautification, and diplomacy there. Instructed to glide on the palace's gilded ballroom floor and to entertain beneath the music conservatory's canopy of hand-painted nightingales, the courtier-in-training now travels leisurely back and forth between the picturesque Crimson Peaks and Arx, where reside many of his kin and the legendary Whisper motherhouse.
kin and the legendary Whisper motherhouse. +
As a child Isolde was considered shy and w …
As a child Isolde was considered shy and withdrawn, an introverted young woman of rare smiles and haunted eyes. Her family would try to break her out of her shell by including her constantly in every minor social function, which she appreciated but remained just as reticent afterwards. Then came the Mirror's Masquerade. The Eclipse of Mirrors is the largest holiday of the Lyceum, that bloodmoon of every few years when all the houses of the Lyceum pay homage to the Thirteenth, particularly at the Mirror's Masquerade. Isolde was forced to attend by her family, just another masked young woman to enjoy the games of the feast day as a mirror-masked actor played the part of the Dark Reflection, dancing and jesting with all the guests in honor of the dark god. In a rare departure from tradition, the actor picked Isolde as the evening's 'favorite', a rare blessing by the Thirteenth that is blasphemous for an actor to give... but even more blasphemous for the audience to scoff at, and cast doubt upon the actor. The party all cheered for the dark god's favorite, the dances continued, and for that night Isolde was the pinnacle of Lyceum society. She changed after that. She was now confident, charming... and determined to preach the benefits of the Thirteenth to the rest of Arvum that allowed superstition to cloud their appreciation for his gifts. It's not uncommon for high born nobles to become disciples of a particular god, but it's very rare indeed for a younger sister of a duchess, let alone the Grand Duchess of the Lyceum, to become a disciple of the least worshipped god of the Pantheon. She knows full well that spreading understanding of the Dark Reflection is quite an uphill battle, but the shy girl is long gone. She believes in herself, her family and her faith, and will win over others.
y and her faith, and will win over others. +
As a child, Octavia was bookish and abrupt …
As a child, Octavia was bookish and abrupt. She learned courtesies out of necessity but not inclination, and never favored prettiness or softness or quiet. She had few friends, though those she did have she treasured closely. While her younger brother, the heir to Stormward, was educated on the mainland, Octavia reigned supreme in the household. After her mother's death, she was the lady of the house and claimed it early with the full force of her personality behind it. She spent much of her time when not actively managing the household with an iron fist learning as much as she could in the library -- first the Kennex library itself at Stormward, and then in the libraries of the other lady scholars near her rank within her own fealty. She was disinterested in marriage politics, and she had sufficient force of personality to cause her father not to press the issue, which was remarkable in itself. Then again, she was basically the accountant, quartermaster and general historian of the entire Stormward navy by that point, and -- basically -- to hell with it. When Ford Kennex inherited the title, Octavia's elevation to the judicial role in life was as much to clear her imperious tyrant fist to make room as it was in line with her own ambitions to be more than simply Lady Octavia.
tions to be more than simply Lady Octavia. +
As a child, Thomas was a bright, cheerful, …
As a child, Thomas was a bright, cheerful, and proud little lordling, the youngest son given free rein to wander and play through the halls of the family citadel and explore the crater of Brassfall March with a lifetime of opportunity ahead of him. His mother and father were very fond of him and were in the habit of indulging whatever fancy struck him...perhaps too much so, but it was difficult to hold this favor against him, and he was well-liked among the people of the March and armsmen of the House. He spent many hours simply talking with the servants and listening with obvious fascination as they explained or demonstrated their various crafts, and it was said with pride among the smallfolk that he would one day be a fine leader - if he could only learn to focus with the same passion on the lessons his tutors painstakingly tried to enforce. As he grew up, he was very close with his older brothers Erik and Duncan - he tagged along after the nearly-inseperable pair like a faithful hound pup, and Thomas admired Duncan fiercely for his devotion to the House and his position as heir. While Thomas loved his father dearly, it was no secret that he sided with his brothers without question in everything; so it was that when the Tor-Southport war broke out in all its horrible ferocity, he demanded with all a child's stubborness that they be allowed to fight for their leige lord, as this was what Duncan and Erik so desperately wanted. More was the pity. When news came home of Erik's death, something changed in the lad, a bitterness that snuffed out much of his former joy - and when both of his parents were lost to illness only a few years later, that bitterness hardened into a dark resolve. Thomas threw himself into learning the blade and soldier's craft, volunteering for every border skirmish and Abandoned raid he could and throwing himself at his foes without remorse. Though he was respected by the men and women he served beside and eventually lead, he was no longer well-loved as much as feared for whatever terrible ruthless cold had rooted in his heart. As youth faded, Thomas served as a noble general for Hawkmour's forces loyally and competently for years...and yet even he was unprepared when Duncan was assassinated. Stunned, shocked, he was nearly hollowed out and ended by his despair...but instead a thirst for vengeance flared bright in his breast, burning away almost all traces of sorrow and filling him with grim purpose. Knowing how badly his family now needed him, and that answers would be waiting there - and maybe, somehow, justice as well -- Thomas packed his things and left for Arx, to offer his service as the House Sword to the Marquessa-Regent.
s the House Sword to the Marquessa-Regent. +
As a clever, quiet child, Elonso learned t …
As a clever, quiet child, Elonso learned the value of patience young. A confidante is not really something that exists within the watchful walls of House Pravus, but a co-schemer and willing tool? That is what Elonso became for Belladonna at a very young age. While their father's compassion and weakness slowly eroded the legacy of House Pravus in Setarco, Belladonna was not content to sit idly by and watch her birthright sink into the sea, and neither was Elonso, as her shadow. He had innocent eyes and good ears, and he was small and slight, clever enough to fit into small places, and his coloring was inobtrusive enough to make him not above playacting and pretending to be less than the son of a duke. Elonso learned the dangers of kindheartedness. He learned the dangers of a loose tongue. He learned the hazards of ambition overweening caution. He learned all this watching the mistakes of his father's vassals as his sister schemed, arranged, and reforged power that might have been lost. As a young adult, with his sister serene in her new post, Elonso thrived under the mantle of her authority, spreading his artistic talents, focusing on his religious pursuits as a mirrormask, and learning to apply himself for the power of House Pravus in subtle, interesting ways. It might be that in another life he would have been an actor (or a bartender). But in this one, Elonso was born to be a politician.
s one, Elonso was born to be a politician. +
As a girl, Aislin demanded tales of advent …
As a girl, Aislin demanded tales of adventure in which the pretty princess was the heroine and the dashing prince was the plucky sidekick, and side by side the two of them would take on the world, seeing the sights and mapping the secrets of Arvum. As a woman, Aislin isn't wasting her time waiting for the dashing prince to accompany her on her adventures, and instead of having tales recounted at her bedside, she is living her dream. An explorer with impressive locales under her belt, Aislin is her own hero. She's blazed mountain trails and mapped coastlines, categorized artifacts and delivered manuscripts to the Scholars of Vellichor, though her fierce independence has thus far kept her from outright joining their order. She does spend quite a bit of time in Arx however, seeking out like-minded scholars and explorers to exchange stories and obscure bits of lore, and sometimes to team up with those self-same people for further adventuring.
self-same people for further adventuring. +
As a prince of Valardin his youth was a se …
As a prince of Valardin his youth was a series of predetermined benchmarks. Fostered to an ally of the family at the appropriate age, squired when he'd proven himself worthy and skilled enough to not get himself killed or worse make an ass of himself and shame the knight to whom he was squired. Knighted when he came of age with other squires of the same year and skill set, Caius spent his twenties on one campaign or another, doing his share of fighting the good fight. Taprooms and taverns filled the spaces between fights, a near decade of ultimately wasted years until he'd matured enough to long for something more. He eventually matured enough to think first - then think deeper - before reaching for his sword. He'd finally steadied in his late twenties, become less of a wild eyed fighter and begun to explore the years of diplomatic training that had been long buried in his education. It was in this transition that he would find himself on the business end of a mail-clad fist in one of his last regular visits to a tavern. Unintentional as it was, he was left with a broken nose and two black-eyes as a result. Caius would face endless weeks of laughter when his comrades and fellows learned that the knight who'd smashed his nose was the Lady Brennan. For him, however, it was the catalyst for his determination to win the heart of the Lady Knight. Two years of effort and persistence followed before they were betrothed properly then wed. One thing that Caius would often preface any statement about his wife were the words, 'My Brenn, she does have a temper' often said with a contented smile and no small amount of affection. Not every marriage is built on a great romance, in fact, most marriages are built on common ground and the need to establish or cement networking and ties that bind. Caius and Brennan were a fly in the mix, genuinely fond of each other, genuinely well-suited for one another and, by all rights, happy with each other. Thus, in the usual passing of time their first child was born, and five years later, a second. Only months after their second child was born Brennan was visiting family when the worst of all nightmares came to a head, culminating at the Tragedy of Sanctum. His wife was one of many that died that day, but Caius was deeply affected by her loss. He retreated from the world, taking only the household staff that would keep everything running smoothly and focusing himself on his children and the management of the family estate and assets. Eventually, he was called upon by his family to engage once more, to take up the duties of a child of Valardin. Reluctant but duty-bound, Caius returned to the vanguard of house affairs.
returned to the vanguard of house affairs. +
As a very young child the memory of scream …
As a very young child the memory of screaming, jostling and the scent of just everything that can burn blazing away - Filusae still stares into the dark at night, remembering the dim gloom of days being carried away by frantic hands and a trembling voice she can only remember as Mother's. The sound of cracked lightning and feeling constantly soaked upon a small, questionable vessel through dark waters and heavy rains. Clammy hands, attempting to be comforting only creating a more horrifying experience to gaze upon a once serene face tear-stained with pale hair disheveled. Where was father? What was happening? The capacity to understand escaped her, only to be brought to light as she grew in the home of her Mother's inlaws, among House Groverfield, far from the destruction of the Sack of Tydehall and the fall of House Tyde. Murmurs through the years from her mother revealed that maybe it could have all been different if her grandfather were alive, were there. While the years passed by, Filusae was brought up fairly sheltered but well educated in things that brought her interest, taking a past-time in collecting objects that would shine or make pleasant sounds she naturally found an appreciation for coin and dealing with it. Only twice did those in the home she was raised by and with attempt to take her near the docks and ships, ending in a wildly violent exchange with some staggering away nursing scratched arms or a face. The absolute panic of being so near a ship for so little a reason as 'a fun trip' did not strike her well; Maybe just being at the docks would not have been so bad were it not for the intent to convince her to board the vile ship for such an unacceptable reason. Maybe were it to visit a pen-pal, one of two she would have been encouraged to try. Maybe. Recently a worn-looking old man has come to the door, blue eyes as so many. She shut the door in his face, a hint of unease settling over her. Only later to find the very same man in the parlor with her mother looking pale and confused... What grandfather? Who? That man would be ancient and was supposed to be long-assumed dead.
and was supposed to be long-assumed dead. +
As a young child, Ahzan was tutored under …
As a young child, Ahzan was tutored under a teacher named Merrin. In the beginning he had no real interest in learning, not only that he would regularly try to find away out of having to be taught. Eventually his teacher decided to sit him down, showing him what he can do with simple techniques such as writing and reading, allowing him to open his eyes to a new world. He started to spend more time studying and learning, leaving his previous kid ways of life for a more distinguished and set path. Evere since then, he has always upheld the uses of the scholarly pursuits, although definitely never pressing it onto others.
definitely never pressing it onto others. +
As a youth, Perrach showed promise with we …
As a youth, Perrach showed promise with weapons, and his father -- a man-at-arms for a noble household -- was all the ready to push him forward as soon as he was old enough to swear into service. He was the only son of a mostly daughtered house, and his family was hungry for honor. Perrach was a fresh, raw boy crewing a ship of the fleet. He was nineteen when he followed Prince Donrai Thrax to crush the Tyde Rebellion, and distinguished himself mainly by fighting with wild abandon. He earned his first scars, then, too, and at length, his knighthood, distinguishing himself by quick thinking abovedecks as much as by bloodshed. Thrax's waters are rarely without incident, and he was a restless young warrior, sailing in search of sea monsters or glory or who knew what. He grew more jaded over time, spending months at a time at sea, and finding himself far removed from the concerns of land folk when he came back. Sworn as a knight for House Thrax, he served, and fought, and bled, and killed, and he loved it. Perhaps it is his ten years long service of the family that has made it harder for Perrach to hold his tongue, but over the past year or more, he has begun to speak his mind more and more often, regardless of his rank. He was never a long-tempered man, but as threats grow surrounding his home and all the lands of the Compact, he grows restive and less tolerant of what he perceives as "nonsense".
lerant of what he perceives as "nonsense". +
As chaotic as the lives of her kinfolk. +
As far as anyone knows, Mark is in Arx aft …
As far as anyone knows, Mark is in Arx after spending extensive time in the Northlands. He professes that he's a tracker and a hunter, if pushed for details. It's an explanation that suits, as he's certainly dressed like a person who has spent significant time outdoors and his manners also befit someone that is possibly less skilled with people than others.
ibly less skilled with people than others. +
As is often the case among the Abandoned, …
As is often the case among the Abandoned, life for Lorna before she bent the knee was difficult and fraught with danger. Her people preferred to remain settled in one place for as long as they were able, but they were regularly forced to relocate due to hostilities brought by other clans or conflict with the Compact. She was still young when all-out war was waged and her clan was cut down nearly to the last; only a few children survived, sheltered in part by Lorna's cleverness in finding for them a good hiding place until the fighting was over. When the dust had settled, Lorna led her small contingent of orphans to the nearest safe haven they could find to beg for shelter. That she proceeded to do so in passable Arvani rather than the native tongue of her shav'arvani clan is likely what encouraged the lords of Stonehearth to oblige her pleas. Some ten years later, Lorna is now one of the so-called 'prodigals' and serves House Stonewood as a trusted steward and translator. She has a natural ear and talented tongue, well-versed in several different shav'arvani dialects, and strives to learn more and more. Her experience in the great melting pot that is Arx, however, has only just begun...
at is Arx, however, has only just begun... +
As luck (or the gods) would have it, Saito …
As luck (or the gods) would have it, Saito started his life as a comonner, born in the lands of the Charon family. The start of his life was harsh. Having been born as an orphan, Saito had no choice but to live in the streets, feeling grateful for everyday that he managed to survive. Fortunately, this didn't last long: One of the nobles, a girl close to his age took notice of his situation and, for some reazon, decided to help him. To show how grateful he was, Saito vowed that he would always serve the family, as long as he breathed. This was tacken seriously and before his servisse to the Charons could start, he was properly educated. He alsso spent more time with the girl, who's name he learned, was Clarisse. They quickly became friends. Aside from his education, Saito started to develope skills in combat. Noticing that, Teague, Clarisse's brother, gave him an order which he still follows to this day: Protect and guard Clarisse. His training was encouraged and Saito became a skilled warrior, having a preference for bows instead of swords. When Clarisse moved to the ocuntryside to deal with a personal trauma, Saito acompanied her. It was in that peaceful atmosphere that the two of them became even closer, Saito being the first person that Clarisse spoke to after her trauma. In the countryside, Saito continued to practice and to protect Clarisse. There, he found a sense of peace. His promotion to knight came as a surprise to Saito. He hadd never sought any kind of power for himself, being simply content to serve the family that had helped him when hee most needed. When Clarisse decided to return home, Saito followed, staying behind only to settle their affairs in the countryside. Now it is his hope to reunite with her again, to see what the future has in store for them and for their family.
as in store for them and for their family. +
As one might expect from the name, Watcher …
As one might expect from the name, Watcher isn't particularly keen on sharing personal details about her past, though this manifests largely as disinterest rather than evasiveness. She's said she's originally from Farhaven on occasion, she's certainly a commoner, and if she has any family, she's just as disinterested in talking about them, though the impression she gives is that there's no one to actually talk about. She seems equally comfortable working within the city and the wilderness, though, if pressed, she clearly prefers the latter.
f pressed, she clearly prefers the latter. +
As one of several sons of Kelda Grayhope, …
As one of several sons of Kelda Grayhope, Brady grew up a curious, acquisitive youngster. He rarely wanted for anything, especially pies to stick his fingers into. He learned the ins and outs of the Boroughs, back alleys a specialty, and served while still very young as a salty, scrappy little shit aboard the decks of smuggling ships. He frequently stole from the rich to give to the poor, which would have been more Robin Hood and less little shit if only he'd had any need to do so instead of doing it for the adrenaline rush. Speaking of the adrenaline rush . . . Brady's brother turned traitor a few years ago, and it turned his life upside-down. While Corrigan ratted out the business interests, lit the launderers on figurative fire, and turned over their /mother/, Brady scrambled to course correct. He was broke for basically the first time in his life, and found that his skills at getting into and out of trouble were all he had to fall back on ... so of course he fell back on them as hard as he could. Luckily, the Grayhope family connections to business legitimate and otherwise are not few, and he was able to set himself up as a handyman: that is, a man handy for all kinds of jobs, just generally a good guy to have in your corner in the crunch. Especially if you need him to be quick with a dagger -- which is how he ended up moonlighting with the Valorous Few (he'll tell you for sure, he looks great in hats). Or, you know, a little bullshit artistry. He's good at that, too. On demand.
tistry. He's good at that, too. On demand. +
As one of several sons of Kelda Grayhope, …
As one of several sons of Kelda Grayhope, Corrigan wanted for little as a boy. His mother was ambitious to improve the social and financial affairs of the family and she threw herself into doing that, enhancing the Grayhopes' position in the merchant class by hook or by crook. The emphasis was on the crook; by the time Corrigan was 13, he knew way too much about the borders between the Upper Boroughs and the Lower, and by the time he was 15, he'd already been a drug runner for several smuggling operations. Kelda was firmly ensconced in selling legitimate wares and laundering money for the family business. Corrigan was involved in literally everything. When he was nineteen, he ran afoul of the Inquisition tracking down dirt on Kelda, and a particularly clever and rather surly Inquisitor offered Corrigan a choice, an out: information in exchange for an absence of the less than savory methods the Inquisition might bring to bear. His subornment was mild at first. He turned over information in dribs and drabs, never enough to tip off the family or really enough to do much for the Inquisition. But treachery is a slippery slope, and his ability to burn the candle at both ends ended pretty sharply and sourly a few years into the proposition. Unable to make more traditional charges stick on Kelda when she disavowed all connection to everything even under torture, the Inquisition ultimately took Kelda as a witch for violating Limerance's Fourth Law. Ultimately, Corrigan's internal cover was compromised and he was forced to choose which life would be his: the investigator's life, taking confessions, or the criminal's, avoiding them. It was a complicated decision that he reached, but with a family that would not take him back, Corrigan chose to crusade against his own former life instead.
usade against his own former life instead. +
As one of the younger members of the Ulbra …
As one of the younger members of the Ulbran family, Sasiri was born in the Lowers orginally. As she grew she went from disillusioned by her family to outright disappointed and disgusted. While Sasiri showed great talent in design and carpentry her cousins and siblings were out commiting crime. So it wasn't a hard choice when at eighteen she decided to leave home and become a Whisper. A year passed and she studied interior design meanwhile, adding it to her collection of abilities and talents. Her family tried to 'visit' her to convince her to help them with their various projects but she always turned them away. When she was growing up all she remembered them doing was taking and destroying, she wants to create and build and those two philsophies simply cannot coexist peacefully or so she believes.
not coexist peacefully or so she believes. +
As suggested by her looks, Rukhnis hails o …
As suggested by her looks, Rukhnis hails originally from the Dune Kingdoms of Eurus, and is willing to concede under sustained questioning that she was a priestess or wise woman or some vaguely similar manner of person among some clan of desert tribesmen roaming the back of beyond, whose exact name and location she declines to give. She also seems to have spent some time as a scholar in the Mourning Isles, which perhaps explains her rather good command of the Arvani language and her haphazardly patchy knowledge about the land of Arvum itself. She is disinclined to speak about her reasons for leaving either Eurus or the Mourning Isles, or to explain just how she wound up in the service of Lord Rysen Crovane as his personal retainer, but it seems to be this latter circumstance that brought her to Arx. Since her arrival in the city she has largely avoided drawing attention aside from establishing herself as a healer of some small note and a trusted servant of Crovane. Joining the Physicians guild early on, she had the chance to prove her medical abilities when a Eurusi ship collided with the city docks, depositing a few dozen liberated slaves who had become afflicted with an epidemic illness. Eventually she received the great honour of being appointed Assistant Guildmaster by the legendary healer Marquessa Reigna Keaton, and was also assigned the post of Crovane Minister of Medicine. While dividing her time between her house and guild, much of her work is directed towards improving the lives of the poor and marginalized and she can often be found working at the Commons Clinic in the Lower Boroughs.
the Commons Clinic in the Lower Boroughs. +
As the eldest son of Alda and Malcolm Gree …
As the eldest son of Alda and Malcolm Greenmarch, Jamie enjoyed the first couple years of his life being the sole focus of their attention. He was an energetic and impulsive youth with a fearless streak that often got him into a bit of trouble. As time passed and more Greenmarch children entered the world, it was difficult for his parents to spend the amount of time necessary to keep him busy. Being the oldest, Jamie very quickly established a close bond with his grandmother, Maryn Greenmarch, who enabled his free spirited nature by passing on the family's old traditions and teachines in the ways of Shamanism. The concept of spirit and being in touch with the wilderness around him was the perfect answer to his personality. It shaped him in many ways into adulthood, including the advantage of understanding two different belief systems and opened his eyes to new ways to perceive the world around him. As he grew into a young adult, he was ultimately knighted and earned a place with the Knights of Solace, though he was quite the unorthodox member. His knowledge of the land and tactics saw to it that many of his responsibilities and missions revolved around scouting, establishing forward operations, and protecting healers and the populace on the fringes of friendly territory. Though he is a Knight, more often then not the people he has directly fought alongside and for have referred to him as the Ranger for the way in which he fights, his understanding of topography and how to best use that to the advantage of his allies, as well as his tendency to remain segregated from those around him, including his brothers-and-sisters-at-arms. A couple years ago, he was sent out on an escort mission to ensure the safety and well-being of healers who were traveling to the outskirts to provide medical care and attention to the underserved populations. In time, his mission statement evolved as he began to face off against not just simple bandits and raiders, but pirates and darker things. Protecting the common folk at these areas and the healers he was initially sent out to escort has earned him somewhat of folk hero status amongst the fringe populations. They call him the Spear of the Greenwood for his first to fight attitude, always at the tip of the proverbial spear defending those that cannot defend themselves. His combat style, his experience, and the man that he is has been rooted deeply in Shamanism and it is not something he will readily give up. He walks a fine line between the Pantheon and Shamanism, though those who have fought beside him or been saved by him care little about his personal beliefs so much as his actions. Returning home after years of service, the prodigal son finds that the world he was once a part of has continued to spin despite his absence. With his return just over the horizon, Jamie signed on as an instructor with the Academy of War to not only pass on the knowledge and experience he has developed over years at the frontlines, but also to strengthen Greenmarch's ties to House Keaton and the Compact.
ch's ties to House Keaton and the Compact. +
As the firstborn son of the Duke of Setarc …
As the firstborn son of the Duke of Setarco, Niccolo was groomed from birth with the expectation that he would eventually rule the powerful Lycene city-state famed as the home of the silk trade. House Pravus possessed a reputation for producing strong, ruthlessly effective rulers and Niccolo appeared that he would be no exception- he eschewed the pampered lifestyle that would have been easily available as the firstborn of one of the highest nobles of the Lyceum, instead training relentlessly with the house soldiers or learning all he could from his family about the dangerous intrigues of Lycene politics and how to be maneuver its treacherous waters. As a young man, he repeatedly led the city-state of Setarco's military forces into battle against against the Sea Reavers, a powerful clan of the Abandoned which have been foes of the Lyceum for the past thousand years. With a calmly astute leadership style and formidable mental discipline, Niccolo won reknown for prowess as a battlefield commander and looked to be all the people of Setarco could ask for in the next duke. And then he met Princess Carlotta, the heir apparent of the Archduke of Lenosia, and future Grand Duchess of the Lyceum. Immediate attraction quickly became something undeniably deeper, and both immediately made their wishes known. Unfortunately like most nobles, however celebrated great love stories might be in the commons, neither the current Archduke of Lenosia or the Duke of Setarco benefited much from the match and immediately dismissed the idea. Carlotta's father pointed out that the ties with Setarco were already strong and attempting to strengthen the bonds with another marriage when they had other city-states to bring to heel was foolish. Niccolo's father was even more horrified- as House Pravus was ostensibly a vassal of the Grand Duke of the Lyceum but quite nearly a peer to the Velenosa ruler, Niccolo would be forced to marry into the Velenosa family and pass his claim as the next duke of Setarco on to his brother, and everyone rightly saw Niccolo as a fantastic future duke. Both rulers encouraged their respective children to forget the follies of youth and be prepared to properly marry as befits their obligation to their houses, but Niccolo was in no way dissuaded. At the next great Tournament of Roses, the festival in honor of the god of love, Niccolo managed to emerge as the champion of the tests of the body. By long tradition, each of the victors at the Tournament of Roses can request a boon from the Compact, with the Crown speaking for the realm in recognizing the worthiness of the boon. As with no few star-crossed lovers, Niccolo asked in front of most of the assembled peers of the realm and thousands of commoners for King Alaric the Elder to grant his marriage to Princess Carlotta Velenosa. The king agreed, and it is a very rare house that would refuse their liege under those conditions. The next two decades oversaw the restoration of House Velenosa prestige and power under the new Grand Duchess of the Lyceum, Carlotta Velenosa, heavily assisted by her talented husband Duke Niccolo. Niccolo was almost immediately appointed a Voice of House Velenosa, speaking with the full authority of the Duchess, and the two together ruled with all the deft agility and ruthless dispatch that any house in the Lyceum would envy. Niccolo was responsible for smashing most of clans of the Abandoned near Velenosa lands, creating far more stability around the city-state of Lenosia than it has known throughout its history. Tragically, the demands of leadership kept the married pair apart for sometimes years at a time, with Duke Niccolo remaining in Lenosia and making certain the vassal city-states of the Lyceum stayed firmly under control while Carlotta resided in Arx to manipulate the politics of Arx repeatedly in House Velenosa's favor. When Niccolo heard of his beloved wife's death in Arx, it is known that he stayed uncharacteristically out of contact with nearly everyone for a month while in mourning, seeing only his daughter Esera at her coronation as the new Archduchess of Lenosia and Grand Duchess of the Lyceum. Tragedy followed not long after with his daughter Esera's death by being pushed from Sovereign Bridge by the Dominus Fawkuhl, with the elder statesman very reluctantly assuming the position of Grand Duke of the Lyceum for a time, a position that weighed on him and his grief, though he found brief happiness with a marriage to Princess Deva Redrain. Even that brief happiness was not to last with Deva's mysterious disappearance, causing many in the Lyceum to believe the poor man was cursed. The respected Lycene nobleman abdicated the position of high lord to allow his niece, Princess Eleyna Velenosa to ascend and allow her the chance to rule, with him stepping into a more comfortable role as voice and trusted advisor.
ortable role as voice and trusted advisor. +
As the oldest of many siblings Dylan took …
As the oldest of many siblings Dylan took life seriously as a child, learning to be a sailor just like his father and his father before him, and so on, but it didn't take Dylan long to realize that I was not what he wanted to do with his life. So, against the wishes of his father Dylan went off adventuring to find just where he wanted to be in life. It didn't take Dylan long to discover it. Alcohol. Brewing it, more specifically. He ran into a brewmaster in his travels across the Compact lands and from him Dylan learned how to make a variety of drinks. It proved to be quite the enjoyment for him. His training to be a sailor, at least the strength, came in handy for lifting the heavy barrels to move them to storage and what not. Dylan spent much of his adult life training in brewing so that he could be an expert at it. Once he learned all he could from his mentor Dylan travelled once more, learning different styles of brewing and learning of the land to best know what would optimize his brews. During these travels he met the woman who would eventually marry. It was just after she had been freed from Thralldom, still a child. She was timid and content to hide in a little corner sewing. Sheena. At the time she had no name but she was eventually adopted by Coldrains. It took him many months just to get into her affections. He knew very well she did not talk much, if at all, of her relationship with him. So, his convincing her to marry him took several months. It was not that she objected to him or his desire to wed her, it was her extreme shines and timidness. Eventually, though, he reached her enough to get her to agree. As in it was just days before he decided to join her in Arx. September 1009. That is when he finally wed her . He met her in the Mourning Isles to make it happen then joined her in Arx.
to make it happen then joined her in Arx. +
As the owner and proprietor of the Murder …
As the owner and proprietor of the Murder of Crows Boardinghouse, Chanse Grayhope is not one would call a soft man. He's survived the better part of two decades running the establishment most favored by those needing to disappear for a while by being the kind of man that seems to have very few (living) enemies, but somehow still knows far more than he ought to about anything and everything. He always seems to be given more respect than most would expect from the dangerous sorts living in the Lower Borough, and not just due to a willingness to crack a few skulls from those that get carried away in his establishment. More than a few rough sorts that have crossed the boardinghouse owner have gone missing, and even among some of hard cases of the Lower Boroughs there is a surprising amount of fear for the businessman. For a man living among the lowest of the low of Arx, he seems relatively content exactly where he is and has made little effort to change his station in life. Some of the thugs wonder just how he gets away with it, rarely seeming surprised by anything and showing a shocking amount of lese majeste to some nobles that visit without repercussions. He never asks others their business, and has implied it's extremely wise to do the same to him.
it's extremely wise to do the same to him. +
As the younger brother of Eirene and Roxan …
As the younger brother of Eirene and Roxana, Olivian enjoyed a golden childhood, surrounded by a family that loved him. Eirene looked after him and Roxana made him into a pet and a favorite, and he was happy being coddled and fussed over, a pretty boy who liked pretty things. But Olivian was also a Malvici, and military service wasn't something he'd be able to put off forever. When his time came, he told himself he's put his head down and just get through it. It was only a couple of years. Then it would be over with and he'd never have to touch a sword or sweaty armor again. Then the worst possible thing happened: Olivian discovered that he was good at it. Really, REALLY good at it. Principles of combat that it took the others hours of practice to master came to him like he'd always known how to do them. His instincts for what his opponent was going to do in a spar were so good that he was able to react to things that were going to happen several seconds down the line. Not that he enjoyed any of it, mind. He didn't like being dirty. He didn't like being sweaty. He ESPECIALLY didn't like being sore, and seeing a lot of blood at once, especially coming from him, made his stomach do flip-flops. But he discovered that the easiest way to make someone who wanted to spar with him go away was to just beat them into submission as quickly as he could, and that motivated him to become an even better duelist. Still, Olivian was deeply relieved when all that mess was over and he could go back to the indolent life of a worthless rich boy, frittering his time and money away on the finer things of life. He ran across the occasional person who remembered the breathtaking natural talent he'd displayed with a blade, and sometimes those people even managed to maneuver him into a fight, but with every year that passed, more people forgot. Soon, he was pretty universally dismissed, and he liked it that way. His ideal life came to an end on a day when he, along with a bunch of friends, took what turned out to be an ill thought out country carriage ride. They were ambushed by shavs. The deeds that Olivian did that day (actions taken mostly to save his own skin) were the stuff of instant legend that only grew bigger in the telling. People talked of the way that he stood over the ladies and single-handedly fended off five... no, ten... no, FIFTY giant bloodthirsty shavs (or were they actual giants who REALLY drank blood?). He was called a hero over his own protests, and worse, he was soon delivered a summons from the Duchess herself. Southport needed a Sword and she, it would appear, had found just the man for the job. That's not the sort of thing a person says no to, so Olivian packed his things and reluctantly made his way to Arx.
hings and reluctantly made his way to Arx. +
As the youngest born to a lesser branch of …
As the youngest born to a lesser branch of the Thrax family tree, Jasher is far removed from the line of succession. In the aftermath of his parents' execution for treason, he and his four siblings were placed under the protection of their dictatorial grandfather, Donrai Thrax, the late Prince of Maelstrom. Living under his watchful eye meant deriving relief at being overlooked as often as he was, and ultimately contributed to the development of his sharp observational skills and appreciation for structure and certainty. He was more or less left to his own devices, free to discover for himself where he fit into the family and world at large so long as he did not shame his house in the process. One day, at the ripe age of thirteen, Jasher slipped his house guards in disguise and enlisted to become a cabin boy aboard a trade vessel. Isles lords taking to sailing is hardly unusual, but the prince was far too young, and did so without the explicit approval of his grandfather. When he was eventually located and retrieved, Donrai considered what ought to be done about it. Rather than punish Jasher for his impetuousness, he decided that if the boy would chase the salt so ardently, he should give himself to it in full, but the proper way. Thereafter, he was provided hands-on training aboard a ship so long as he agreed to keep out of trouble and tend to his studies. Each job well done was rewarded with additional opportunities, and in time he grew to be an exceptional sailor and respected leader. While many of his family members moved to Arx upon reaching adulthood, Jasher was justly putting pirates to the sword aboard his own ship, the Sea Drake. What little time he spent ashore was shared with books or family, rarely with strangers. Societal pressures and constraints inherent to nobility have always frustrated him. The prospect of marriage was approached as a grim duty he'd someday be expected to fulfill, yet while there has been no shortage of eligible women, he has never shown an interest in courting them. He rarely entertains romantic overtures in general, but it is common knowledge that he is strictly attracted to men. Over the years, strong familial ties and lasting friendships inevitably sank their deep hooks into Jasher, and those long periods spent away grew fewer and farther between.Threats of all forms bid him return to support and defend House Thrax and The Compact at large. He is a veteran of the Gyre War, Silent War, the Lodge and the Battle of Pieros Bay. He returned to Arx at a most auspicious time, on the eve of the sacking of Bastion, and the cusp of yet another series of bloody conflicts.
of yet another series of bloody conflicts. +
As the youngest brother of the Duke of Tel …
As the youngest brother of the Duke of Telmar, Lord Everard Telmar strove to be the honorable paragon that was everything his elder brother was not. He clung hard to a knightly ideal, gaining the respect of the forces of the Telmarch as he helped lead them in battle, and quickly rose to being a well-respected knight all throughout the Oathlands. Briefly, he even held the sword of the Telmarch in his stewardship, until Arn's own son came of age to wield it as the Champion of House Telmar and the Sword of the Telmarch. Lord Everard served loyally and honorably in the wars against the Shavs for many years, before recently coming to Arx at Prince Radley Valardin's suggestion and due to his influence was appointed the Lord Commander of the Iron Guard by King Alaric Grayson IV. As Lord Commander of the Iron Guard, he has a reputation for honesty and integrity that stands in marked contrast to the sometimes corrupt reputation of the guardsmen that might abuse their rank and privileges over the lowest in Arx. While the Iron Guard is by no means perfect, Lord Everard has resolutely sought to combat their excesses and make them a force for law and order.
s and make them a force for law and order. +
As the youngest child she had far more fre …
As the youngest child she had far more freedoms than some of her older siblings might have had. It gave her the chance to pick up and put down more things than many get to try in a lifetime, before she settled on the fact that she wanted to pick up a sword and become a warrior like her father. Long swords, those seemed to be the ones that she favored over anything else, although she's proficient enough with shorter and lighter swords as well. Her dedication to her father was so strong that she had a tough time when he passed away, finding her solace at the bottom of a bottle instead of in the arms of her family. She didn't let that get her down forever, though, and eventually crawling back out enough to become functional. Not perfect, no, a large part of her heart was gone, but she was on the hunt for a new purpose. To that end she went to Arx to find a new purpose in serving the family there.
a new purpose in serving the family there. +
As the youngest of Duke Barton's legitimat …
As the youngest of Duke Barton's legitimate children, Olivia enjoys something of a privileged status, not expected to lead she's been coddled more than Ashford's usually are. One would expect such treatment to have turned her into a maniacal brat, but somehow it has not. Certainly she is mischievous, and she sneaks around more than one might expect of a young woman with such an innocent face, blending into the shadows of furniture as a child, and moving through the shifting shadows of trees as an adult. She's no warrior, stalking the trail of tribal shavs, but rather she's avoiding the animals that plague the forests of her home. She's not scared of them, they are a necessary evil if she's to find the perfect blossom for a bouquet, or that one specific plant she's promised to find for the apothecarist. But she will walk miles out of her way to avoid a family of geese, or avoid an entire part of the forest during mating season. Her love of nature stops at the greenery, for certain. Prickly thorns and poisonous saps are all part of the adventure, but cuddly rabbits are simply loathsome and more than once she's released her cousins' pets into the wild where they'll be free - and no longer underfoot. The plight of Alaric IV has drawn Olivia to Arx, his condition sounding quite unlike anything she's ever seen before - and she's seen plenty, from poisonous roots contaminating a march's water supply to stinging beetles blinding infants in a tribe of Ravashari. Surely there is a cause and a cure to be found, and Olivia means to have her name mentioned upon this discovery, and many more.
tioned upon this discovery, and many more. +
As the youngest of the Selikis, growing up …
As the youngest of the Selikis, growing up he was something of a Mama's Boy, always running to his mother and grandmother whenever he was afraid. But held rapt by his mother's stories of adventure and bravery, and wanting to please his father, he struggled to face his fears, and by the time he was twelve years old, had taken his first cliff dive, a frequently enjoyed sport of the region. The act in itself was a release; he realized to confront a fear was to conquer it. When his mother died, he was devastated, grief spurring him to challenge himself, sometimes recklessly, facing the ultimate fear of mortality. He dove into his martial studies, becoming one of his father's knights, fighting in battles ashore and at sea, eventually setting his sights on a project of vision and extraordinary scope, in good faith and aware of the risks, but unafraid: The Great Road. The Great Road has brought the best and worst out of the people of Arvum, arvani and shav'arvani alike, Kaldur included. He was terribly disheartened by the strife the Road stirred and ignited, buoyed then by family and friends to remember why he began the work in the first place. He joined the Knights of Solace to walk and protect the Compact's roads. With friends and allies, he led a pilgrimage to walk the entire length of the Great Road, something he thought he would not be possible in his lifetime. Upon return, one of the original inspirations for the Great Road - overland transit to far flung Stormwall in the wake of its destruction in war - became a bond by vows of marriage, Kaldur joining House Crovane as Duke-consort to Duchess Fianna Crovane. The marriage put to rest the remnants of strained relations between Stormwall and Old Oak.
d relations between Stormwall and Old Oak. +
As the youngest of the Selikis, growing up …
As the youngest of the Selikis, growing up he was something of a Mama's Boy, always running to his mother and grandmother whenever he was afraid. But held rapt by his mother's stories of adventure and bravery, and wanting to please his father, he struggled to face his fears, and by the time he was twelve years old, had taken his first cliff dive, a frequently enjoyed sport of the region. The act in itself was a release; he realized to confront a fear was to conquer it, and so he took to learning the martial disciplines with gusto, and started to find the anticipation of danger to be somewhat thrilling. When his mother died, he was devastated, and it pushed him further into the notion of challenging his fear, of which his true remaining one is ultimately death. Now, he serves competently as one of his father's knights, but still takes the time to challenge himself with new experiences and enjoying that thrill that certain types of danger can bring.
ll that certain types of danger can bring. +
As the youngest of three sons of a non-rul …
As the youngest of three sons of a non-ruling branch of the Redrain, Baelos had a childhood unburdened by duties or significant expectations. Instead, his devout focus on swordplay, soldiering, adventure, brawling, taverns, and trouble made him something of a minor celebrity among Farhaven's soldiering classes, if not a favorite of his father. Blood on his blade, ale on his lips, and a pretty girl by his side - from all appearances, Baelos was more than satisfied with this life. This all changed after both of his brothers left Farhaven, and both found themselves dead. Now, with his father Vigsi grief-stricken and near death, Baelos for the first time is laden with duty - duty to represent his family in Arx, to serve the Prince of Farhaven at court, and to make his mark in the South.
court, and to make his mark in the South. +
As the youngest sister of Cristoph, Jael, …
As the youngest sister of Cristoph, Jael, and Cassandra she was free of much responsibility and was free focus on whatever it was at the moment that captured her fascination. For a while she thought she might be a singer or something like a bard. The next, a lawyer. The next focus was animal husbandry and then maybe even medicine. While she shied away form the martial aspects of life, she excelled at whatever she put her mind to. More recently, her father has died and Cristoph has taken the reigns over Artshall and while her heart broke for her father she couldn't be prouder of her older siblings. Now, having come of age she's been loosed upon Arx to find her path and her footing.
upon Arx to find her path and her footing. +
Asha grew up as the daughter to a favored …
Asha grew up as the daughter to a favored Champion in Lenosia, but never the less a commoner. Through the relative fame of her mother, she grew up comfortable and although at first her mother intended for her to learn another craft, when she got into her teenage years there was no question Asha sought to follow in the footsteps of her mother. The scars she wears today are a mark of her early days in the guild back home, but with time she too earned herself a reputation. Taking up the way of the spear, the serpent's dance as she calls it she lingered in Lenosia for sometime, but it proved difficult to manage in the shadow of her mother, the famed Sara the Serpent. She has travelled across all of Arvum since then, mainly seeking cities as that is where a Champion will find work. And eventually Arx, for where are there more nobles in petty disputes than in the capital?
les in petty disputes than in the capital? +
Ashlyn Velenosa was born Princess to the f …
Ashlyn Velenosa was born Princess to the family of the Lyceum. A bit of a hot-tempered child she was sent off to boarding schools and recently a propierty school. She grew up amongst the nobles, used to getting what she wanted but through schooling learned that making a fuss was not the way to get those things. If anything the schools taught her how to be proper and how to walk amongst the peers as an adult. She's just recently returned to be set out into the world as a Princess ready to be beholden to the proper man.
ss ready to be beholden to the proper man. +
Ashlyn was born to Camilla Velenosa and ra …
Ashlyn was born to Camilla Velenosa and raised by servants and maids, never truly knowing her father and his lack or presence. Naturally she was spoiled as a child with a bit of a temper, thinking she could get whatever she wanted. She was sent off to boarding schools to learn that this behavior was not okay. Her brother Jarek is a wandering priest who well left the city and many heartbroken in his wake. Ashlyn has just recently returned from a propriety school educated and well mannered to maneuver her way through society. Like a ghost forgotten she seeks new connections and to learn more about the others and the city.
learn more about the others and the city. +
Asriel Darkwater has ever been a notorious …
Asriel Darkwater has ever been a notoriously private person. Still, not every facet of his long life has been masked by the sort of mystery he so often cultivates around himself. What is it they say in the law courts of Arx? Just the facts, please. Asriel was known to be a precocious child, nobody would argue that. A noble's education and a hunger for knowledge would find him growing into a young lord of House Darkwater with a brilliant mind and a bright - if sometimes questionable - personality full of idiosyncracies. Yet no amount of radiance would help him to escape from beneath the long shadow cast by his brother Draevor, a man who better espoused the qualities a Darkwater was thought to need at the time. It could be fair to think that because of this, a younger Asriel Darkwater might have already harbored a healthy resentment for his more brutal brother even before whatever passed between them that would cause an informal falling out. In the years leading up to Draevor's death, a distance grew between Asriel and his family at Darkwater Watch. Where once he had put his keen mind to use handling finances and other important details for his House, more and more he failed to come home altogether. Every stretch of absence was longer than the last, until one day he disappeared entirely. Before he seemingly fell off the face of Arvum, Asriel had been pursuing the life of an antiquarian. Though the return of the Darkwater lord wasn't inevitable, it wasn't an accident either. It was by the hand and efforts of the newly-elevated Countess Carita that the letter which would finally convince Asriel to come home would reach him. While he isn't always quite the outgoing socialite he once was, his philanthropic nature and driven curiosity has remained intact through whatever ravages time has brought down upon him. Many of the Peerage expected that perhaps Draevor's brother might pose a challenge to the latest Countess to grace the head of House Darkwater's table, being the neo noble that she is, but to their surprise his return has found him steadfastly vocal about his support for her.
eadfastly vocal about his support for her. +
Asterion Havmarke is the firstborn and las …
Asterion Havmarke is the firstborn and last living child of Dallon and Odelia Havmarke, and the only remaining scion of the Havmarke line proper. Two younger brothers and a sister were born after, though both younger boys faced health complications that led to early deaths. Like his father before him, he was a farmer by birth and by profession, and was resigned to such a life long before he ever reached adulthood. An avid reader, he consumed every bit of ink and parchment he was able to get his hands on, primarily via discarded missives and historical texts. It was this sharpening of his mind that led to a surprisingly competent military career. It served as an escape from the monotony of agriculture and a method to elevate his own station, eventually resulting in a commission to officer. It was at this time that he took a wife, Vorina, and soon after inherited his family's lands after illness claimed the lives of his parents. She too would be taken by ailing health, accelerated by a complicated pregnancy that left Asterion widowed and without any progeny. Rather than fall into any despair, he threw his life into duty - cultivating his lands, serving his commission, and reigniting a passion for literature, now with the agency to acquire proper books to expand his library. Eventually, his military service was ended by injury and subsequent illness that threatened to claim him just as it did the whole of his family. It was this distinguished military service, though, that led House Byrne to invite Asterion to serve as a steward and agent of Cedar Vale following his recovery, a role that he has acted in with ruthless efficiency. The duty would carry him to Arx to serve the Vale from afar, and so it was that he escaped the destruction of Cedar Vale at the hands of the Abandoned. He returned when the County was given to Lord Gailin Stonewood, seamlessly transition from service of House Byrne to service of the newly created House Fireviper. So it is that he has carried on in stewardship of House Byrne, then Fireviper, and now Byrne again. He has remained through it all in a number of capacities, the only consistency a loyal and steadfast service to Cedar Vale and to the House that holds it.
Cedar Vale and to the House that holds it. +
Astor grew up in a family of simple farmer …
Astor grew up in a family of simple farmers and ranchers on House Grayson's lands. Harboring greater ambitions than a typical farmer's son, Astor decided the best thing to do was to give up his claim on the family business and start one of his own. He apprenticed under a traveling merchant who dabbled in alchemy until he was old enough and knowledgeable enough to set off on his own. He made his way around for a few years, and after a string of run-ins with bandits and scammers, he decided it was best to find a place to settle down. Now that he's in Arx proper, he's not quite sure what to do, at least not yet. He does at least believe that he's wise enough to figure it out, though.
he's wise enough to figure it out, though. +
Astraea was born mere minutes before her t …
Astraea was born mere minutes before her twin sister but the two might often go back and forth on who was actually the first brought into this world. Though she may be identical in looks to her sister they are quite different in some ways. Astraea is the more thrill-seeking, physical type who enjoyed tussling with the boys and getting dirty. Unafraid of a little danger, she always managed to find herself getting into trouble. Her mother was afraid of losing her daughter to the wiles of her whimsy and did her best to reign her in. There was no way in hell that Astraea would ever enjoy embroidery or needlepoint. Knowing her daughter well, the Igniseri noblewoman managed to procure the services of a well known sellsword from a foreign land. Due to her natural inclination toward athleticism she was an excellent student and picked up swordplay quickly. This only bolstered her eagerness to partake in dangerous ventures for that rush of adrenaline. Storm-chasing, rock-climbing, extreme sports, diving, exploring, and just about anything that risks life and limb was on her checklist. Astraea managed to undertake many exciting adventures but her career as a daredevil came to an end when she got married. It was politically motivated and she had never met her intended before they were engaged. As she got to know him it seemed alright and the Igniseri girl felt like perhaps she might even grow to love him. It was with a heavy heart that she left her family and home in the Southern isles to go and live in the icy north. Life can be good, but it isn't always happy endings and for Astraea this was quite the case. Her husband died three years into their marital bliss, his body was found terribly mangled and the cause of death was never discovered. In the weeks following the investigation into the Redrain Prince's death the grisly details were kept from his widow. After the news was delivered to her, Astraea sunk into depression and mourning, thus shattering the hopes and dreams of the southern-but-northern princess who had expected to live a long life with her Prince Charming. Many long months have gone by since then and once again Astraea has fallen prey to her wanderlust and taste for a good fight. Ever a devotee of Gloria, this princess is highly devout and her love of the Gods is second to none. It's no secret that she walks with the Sentinel and has a special place in her heart for the Queen of Endings but she carries a flame of passion in her heart and soul for each member of the Pantheon; finding their combined philosophies and teachings the most beneficial to the soul. Strangely enough she is not actually a member of any single discipleship but the Redrain princess frequents the shrine and the Cathedral. When she isn't pursuing a life of piety, Astraea pursues her interests quietly and tends to avoid the politicking of Arx. Her sister, Aurelia, and her spend a great deal of time together and tend to be synchronous with their moods. This doesn't always mean the pair of them are in agreement but even in their discordance they manage to echo one another's thoughts and feelings as if they share a soul or at the very least a mind. There are no limits on her love for family and the people, all people. Some might see this as naivete or weakness but Astraea has always seen the best in humanity and has an amazing capacity for love. She enjoys meeting people with warmth and open arms, and though she may not always see eye to eye with someone she does her best to keep an open mind. How she arrived in the city is a bit of a mystery, but the why is something she hasn't been quite forthcoming about either but she has set about throwing all of her efforts into maintaining the peace and bringing down the Compact's foes.
eace and bringing down the Compact's foes. +
Aswin doesn't really know if he was born a …
Aswin doesn't really know if he was born an Ulbran, or if he simply fell in with the family around the time that he took his first steps. He has no memories of his mother or his father, they simply were never there. The streets of the Lower Boroughs are a tough place for a child to grow up, especially by themselves, and while his parents were not there the Ulbrans were. Survival became not only possible, but he learned at the instruction of his family how to thrive in the dangerous streets. As soon as he was able, he was put to work as a lookout and pickpocket, the innocence of his youthful appearance presenting an opportunity that was not to be wasted. And then by the time that he entered into his teens he was being trained to fight and sent along on more dangerous work, a life that Aswin took to quite well. Now in his twenties, he fills whatever role the family needs of him.
lls whatever role the family needs of him. +
At an early age Wrakjon Lacerhaft fell in …
At an early age Wrakjon Lacerhaft fell in with a bad crowd with such velocity that he left a crater, and he has been digging into it ever since. He is most notorious in gambling circles, where he owes so many debts that he mostly keeps his fingers by dint of too many people arguing with each other over who gets to cut them off. He is also kept alive by being a surprisingly reliable source of salves and a decent sawbones, skills he's picked up in a curious sort of natural selection where he managed to undergo all the experimentation that was dangerous enough to learn from but not dangerous enough to kill him. Anyone he's stitched up reports never feeling any pain after he gave them a bracing drink, although it took several days for the walls to stop crawling with pixies.
or the walls to stop crawling with pixies. +
At the young age of six, Gogil had gotten …
At the young age of six, Gogil had gotten lost in the forest outside his family's home. Near the same time a group of marauders tried to storm the modest estate by walking right up the front gate. They were slaughtered and Gogil returned home with a fantastical tale of a group of traveling singers wanting to perform for their family. When he was nine it is told that he was to go spend time at Darkwater Watch, but a mighty tempest sent his ship he was traveling on off course and badly needing repair that they ended up in New Hope, house Blackshore's lands. His charges were not too pleased to find that the young lordling had disappeared into the city only to be found several months later staring at wonder at a burnt down warehouse that apparently revealed a trove of stolen goods being ferried through the town. At the age of twelve another attempt to see Darkwater Watch and visit his cousins was attempted. The tale from the survivors says they could see the city as they sailed past being harried by pirates. They were cut off from the port and being dark at night they had to sail southwardly. Long month's past as Gogil's ship stood just out of reach of the raiders before a stroke of luke saw they hidden in a lagoon. The sailors and even Gogil don't talk much about those they met on the island, but there is a song about a boy and his golden eyed duck that those sailors still sing from time to time. At fifteen Gogil was thrust into the world of academia. Not overly inclined to military pursuits and only showing passing skills as a sailor he was given the task to learn numbers and history. A task that he seemed to flourish with. Especially with numbers and the seeing of patterns and stories he says lie with them. On his eighteenth birthday he was sent for by Urime, a master accountant in Maelstrom. Apparently word had reached him of Gogil's prowess with numbers and wanted to take on an underling. About a year later he was on his way home, more knowledgeable on numbers, but confused by the sudden disappearance of Urime. He was even more confused when a Princess kissed his cheek before he boarded his ship home. At twenty one he was asked to look at the books for the family that was in Arx and immediately asked to go to the city. Eagerly wanting to help fix whatever problem he had seen in them. He didn't make it. He doesn't talk about this, and the ship he was delivered on was not the one that he left on. Not until he was twenty four, he finally reached the shores of Arx. A little shocked that his cousin Ember was now Baroness, but still eager to help the family in the city in any way he can.
the family in the city in any way he can. +
Atherton's origins are mostly unknown beyo …
Atherton's origins are mostly unknown beyond the past few years. A few whisperings of offering his services to the Abandoned linger. In the more recent past he's been seen doing mundane work such as escorting merchants about, intimidating young bandits off farmers' property, and the like.
ndits off farmers' property, and the like. +
Atria is the second of three children, the …
Atria is the second of three children, the middle child that's always so troublesome. Her eldest brother was trained to be lord of the manor and now rules House Ulixes. Her youngest sister was married off at an early age to secure trade agreements to grow the house's trade port which it so desperately depends on for life. And Atria? Well, her early years were a mix of being taught to be 'the spare' to having her time left to her own devices. She would spend many of those free hours playing the drums, for which she would find her lessons banished to the far side of the manor for the first year. She would spend other hours going to the Senate with her father and brother, listening to what she felt was worse caterwauling than anything she was mangling with her drums. The years would pass and Atria's ability to keep a beat, to lead a song or the cadence of war band would grow. And her interest in the Senate would sharpen as she realized these sometimes vitriolic proceedings held sway over countless lives. Not only that, she understood why her father took her and her brother, and not just the heir. The work their house would do could never be handled by just the Head of House; her brother would need her help. At the young age of 22, Atria lost her father. He went to Eurus, and he's never been seen or heard from again. His ship did not return and it's believed he was lost to attack. Since that time, Atria's served as the right hand to House Ulixes. Which made it not at all odd when the family contingent that arrived in Arvum included its calm right hand.
ved in Arvum included its calm right hand. +
Atrid is of House Darkwater The son of A D …
Atrid is of House Darkwater The son of A Darkwater nobleman and a Grimhall noble woman. When his mother married his father they went back to his fathers keep south of Darkwater along the deeps. It was on an Island in the middle of the deeps. The keep itself was a lighthouse the Island was called La Isla De Muerte Negro. When Atrids mother left the she brought her body guard to help keep her safe when her husband had to be away. Over the years with his mother and fathers influence and teaching he became a good and charismatic if not strict leader, learning from his mother and her body guard the arts of warfare and the brutality often times needed "the ends justify the means" right? And from his father he learned more of the sleight of hand and trickery, also inheriting the more liberal way of looking at those below his station. Through his teen years he decided to start following in his fathers footsteps hed turn out the lighthouse light allowing a cargo ship here or there to wreck on his island and pillaging the goods and money from it. Now hes left to seek out his fortune and carve his place in the world to leave his own legacy.
lace in the world to leave his own legacy. +
Attending the Apothecary College of Tor, R …
Attending the Apothecary College of Tor, Raphael Gallo would meet a trader from the north name Lianna, and eventually the two would claim each other as husband and wife. Raphael became a moderate success as a perfumer, while Lianna would sail further and further afield from home to find equal success in her own endeavors. And somewhere, along the way, Rinaldo would be born to the rocking of the sea beneath him. Rinaldo would be a sickly child, never growing to the stronger build of his family, and spend much of his childhood under the treatment of healers and his father's herbalism to get rid of coughs, fevers, and so on. At eighteen, Rinaldo would return to Tor and attend the college to become an apothecary himself. He took to perfumes and dyes more than medicines, and after graduation from that academy has come to Arx and joined the Whisper House. Enamored of their beauty and grace, Rinaldo has taken his place as somoene that can enhance his fellow Whispers more than he spends time courting his own customers. He provides perfumes, soaps, hair dyes; he offers services with accounting, bookkeeping, and helping run the administration of the house. While he may be pretty enough to catch some patrons of his own, Rinaldo much prefers the role he's in. After all, it allows him to hide the illnesses that continue to plague his adult life.
es that continue to plague his adult life. +
Audric changes his background story with e …
Audric changes his background story with every telling, lying for sympathy or just because he finds it wildly entertaining. In the (very) rare cases when he is forced to be honest, such as talking to the high and mighty of society who could have the rogue hanged under the entirely correct assumption he must be guilty of something or other, Audric would be forced to admit that he grew up in the rough Lower Boroughs of Arx untroubled by burdens holding him back such as parents, a family, or basic human necessities. Audric contends that while being a waifish urchin was a promising career track, he quickly discovered the far more lucrative field of talking oneself in and, more importantly, out of trouble. Noticably vague about how he first learned swordplay and made the acquaintance of other sellswords, the scoundrel quickly learned that a captain of a sellsword company is not so much the best swordsman as a leader of other soldiers. Or, in Audric's far superior case, someone who can present a reasonably facsimile of a leader while cashing in big on the work that mercenary groups are hired to do while trying to avoid the work of actual bothersome fighting. Also extraordinarily vague on the real details for how he came to be the head of the Valorous Few sellsword company, which is neither few in number nor anything resembling valorous, he has a remarkable talent for being hired while never actually fighting. It's not easy to be an honorable man, which is why Audric is devoutly glad he is instead profoundly not that.
ly glad he is instead profoundly not that. +
Aurelia was birth was the first blight upo …
Aurelia was birth was the first blight upon her mother's honor, but it would not be the last. Her mother was sister to the Duke of Pravus, a cutthroat woman who relished power and adored those who would wield it sharply. Although arranged in a political marriage with those Houses who would later rebel against the Duke of Pravus, she fancied a pirate lord as her bedmate, a thinly-tolerated practice given his open defiance of maritime law. When she became pregnant, she asserted often and loudly that it belonged to the pirate lord and not her husband. From a young age Aurelia took after the Duke of Pravus, who was determined to reform Pravus's image. She studied the songs of Valardin bards, and the great legends of their Dragon Knights protecting the innocent. The Duke showered her with the tender love and fatherly affection that her pirate lord of a father did not, and shaped her romantic's heart from a young age. Just before the conspirators raised their rebellion against Pravus, she was sped away to live with her father. Soon her mother joined them with news that the Duke had been assassinated, but his heir Belladonna, new Duchess of Pravus, had put down the rebellion. She wept for days until news trickled in that her trueborn siblings had been slain. Although she had never been as close to them as her uncle, the grief was too much to bear and she threw herself into the sea. Hours later she was discovered huddled on a beach, covered in black seaweed. She said that she had been saved by beautiful beasts from the sea. After that day, some thought she was touched in the head and strange, though no examination showed any lasting harm. She lived among the traders, smugglers, exiles, and cutthroats of the island for a time, and reportedly gossipped and performed often. A sudden sickness that swept the pirate cove put her father's life in peril, and with it, the guarantee of her safety. Although her mother refused to leave her beloved's side, Aurelia had no such warmth for the man who had not been the father of her heart. She paid a smuggler to take her to Arx, where she penned a letter to Belladonna Pravus, requesting clemency and an audience.
avus, requesting clemency and an audience. +
Aurus was ever happy to do what was expect …
Aurus was ever happy to do what was expected of him. He was, truth be told, everything that Stuart Wyrmguard could want in a son: skilled with a blade, purposeful in his quest to excel, stately, and a bright shining star of the family after Caras's fall. He had never spared a second thought to being a younger son, confident in his own abilities and goals. He was also much unlike his cousin Damon, who tended to want to stick his nose into books and histories, rather than into the thick of things and make it himself, and in this, too, he strove to take up the mantle of everything his uncle had wanted. And though he and Damon were unlike in many ways, he still felt a great affinity towards him. Strangely, in the wake of the tragedy of Sanctum and secondarily Damon's untimely death, Aurus seemed to be one of the least affected. Some think that's because his smile is too bright to falter, or, as some have disapprovingly thought, that the young knight is just not as serious as he should be. With the turn of threats to the Compact to the east, the young crusader has come to Arx proper to support his sisters and cousins, and join the ranks of the beleaguered defenders of the Crown.
of the beleaguered defenders of the Crown. +
Austen Ferron is the baby of the family, t …
Austen Ferron is the baby of the family, though he may look far from it. He and his family resided in a small hamlet within the Oathlands and he spent most of his youth doing farmwork and growing strong through manual labor. The older youths of the village would often pick on him, until one day he shot up and wasn't quite so scrawny any more. Then he beat them up. Austen did not particulary want to become a farmer, nor did he wish to become a smith like his eldest sister Ida, so when the opportunity arose he joined the military as a soldier. It did not take quite as well as he thought it would: after running afoul of a vengeful noble he was discharged, but at that point he was just about done with that foray anyway. He returned home, still a teenager longing to be something more in the world. One day, a perfect opportunity arose: on his trek to the nearby city he came across the beleaguered caravan of a knight, and after helping fix the wheel the knight offered him a position as his squire. He happily accepted, and for the next two years accompanied the knight errant on his travels, learning what he could. Early into his eighteenth year he was knighted to little fanfare, but knighthood fit much better on Austen than farmerhood. He arrived in Arx and joined the Iron Guard at the recommendation of a friend of a friend. The intricacies of city law still puzzle him, but he is slowly getting the gist of it.
, but he is slowly getting the gist of it. +
Austin is not terribly well-known outside …
Austin is not terribly well-known outside of his personal circle; he grew up the son of dirt-farmers, scrabbling to provide for their family. His brothers became petty thugs; his sisters became either disreputable, or married off quickly to any man who could piss in a pot. Austin, however, had no intention of living in squalor. Growing up, he viewed his peers as petty, reckless fools, and had little love for them, regarding them as more children than proper adults. Thankfully for him, he also found that they rallied around any figure who could make an empty promise--also like children. He took his time sowing his wild oats in the lower boroughs of Arx. Those who know him know of his past of petty thievery--and the occasional transfer of currency from the pockets of others into his own. He was known to associate with criminals of various levels of repute. Often, he recruited other young folk to help carry out his dirty deeds, most desperate to make something of themselves despite their dismal life prospects. But thankfully, by some miracle, he straightened himself out by his young adulthood to enter legitimate social circles. He clawed his way into the middle class by gathering a small company of sell-swords and hirelings, known as the Letters of Marque, which he still operates out of the lower boroughs to this day.
tes out of the lower boroughs to this day. +
Avaline often heard stories about the wint …
Avaline often heard stories about the winter storm that blew the day that she was born, one chilly February night. Never one to wait for long, she arrived early, while her mother was still on business in Farhaven. Snowed in from the storm, she came into the world defiantly screaming out her protests, fists clenched in her tiny fury with hair as white as the snow that cascaded outside. So that was how she came to spend her first months in Arvum in Oathlands, until finally she was old enough to travel back home. Time back in Granato was typical of a southerner of her station. From a very young age she took a great interest in strategy games, and began looking in earnest into the history of wars and great strategists. Many war games were set up with her siblings, games of strategy and tactics. Eventually she began to see herself as the general of all of her sisters and brother, and it turned into a very real interest in becoming one in earnest. Of course becoming a general isn't something that is just handed to young women, so as she grew older she knew she would have to be a soldier. She trained with her blades as surely as she honed her craft as a strategist, and over time she really did find that she had a knack for it. She squired from a young age, until finally when she came of age swore her oaths as a knight. It was her calling, and her life's passion. She quickly made a name for herself in small skirmishes as a talented fighter, adaptable and ferocious. She eventually gained true renown as a commander when she picked up the banner of a fallen commander, while surrounded by enemies. Outnumbered and outmatched by a much larger force of shavs than they had been expecting, Ava pulled the remaining soldiers back, only to press forward once more when she'd found more favorable conditions. Her victory was well regarded and earned her the attention of a young Velenosian prince. It was a whirlwind romance, and perhaps due to her own renown in the previous battle she was allowed to marry into the family where she continued her service as a Lycene Knight-Princess, serving to drive back the silence in her own campaigns, enjoying the brief respite to birth two children of her own, and with the new threats looming from Darkwater, Avaline finds herself travelling to Arx with her children to reuinte with her siblings, and assist the increasingly disparate situation bearing down upon them.
isparate situation bearing down upon them. +
Avasyn has never been the luckiest of sort …
Avasyn has never been the luckiest of sorts. Raised in a very poor family devoted to the House of Valardin, she's lucky enough to even know how to read and write. Her father a drunk and her mother a lowly maid, Avasyn grew up as the youngest amongst her family, with three other siblings. She was the last, an unfortunate mistake on their part, and they looked down on the girl with an unhealthy amount of resentment. After all, she was another mouth to feed. But their dislike of her went far beyond regret, and bordered on near mad superstition. They weren't the brightest of people, and living with one foot in the gutter, the other in the grave, was enough to drive most of them mad. It was no surprise, but somewhat strange, when a thirteen year old Avasyn retreated to the heart of Arvum to forge out her own life without her family, alone, penniless and scared.Swearing fealty to the Crown, she was taught by an old healer and mixer of posions, learning everything she knew before she passed away. And she found sanctuary with the Cullers, who opened their arms for her, and became more a family to her than our blood family ever were. But still, the events that drove her away still haunts her, along with the ache of being loathed so by those she'd spent her childhood years with. It leaves a deep, bleeding ache there, and the guilt can sometimes be seen in her eyes before they turn cold and secretive.
eyes before they turn cold and secretive. +
Aviana growing up was a happy child, her p …
Aviana growing up was a happy child, her parents worked hard to give her what they could. Growing up she listened to her mothers teachings on how to sew and as she got older she was able to use that to sell at the local market to help her parents. Growing up a only child was good in ways but bad in others, it meant a lot on pressure of Aviana but she seem to handle it. Her mother would tell she had a calm soul a lot because in times of stress Aviana would be able to stay calm. One of the things she enjoyed very much was watching the nobles and knights sparring and jousting, but her mother use to tell her all the time to get her head out of the clouds that she was the daughter of a farmer and a tailor and she two was just like them a commoner it was a harsh lesson but Aviana down deep understood.
sh lesson but Aviana down deep understood. +
Avovorinth was born to a Pirate Lord by th …
Avovorinth was born to a Pirate Lord by the name of Zothar and a prodigal mother from a people who hail from an island in the middle of the sea that nobody has ever heard of. Avorina, the mother of Avo, became a fortune teller, a false one of course but such is the way of the Darkcrows. This worked for a time and Avorina was able to provide for her child till he became of age to sail and do the work that sustained the Clan, this was when the little guy was first able to set to sea by his papa's side. Avo's father was infrequently involved with business at sea. Some might call raiding or thieving but others called providing, but none could say he was anything but a good father. Often, he would return after many months with small treasures and tall tales and his son was entranced by these tales and imagined his father as a heroic adventurer. One day a woman entered Avorina's home and asked for a reading. Avorina did as always, telling her what she wanted to hear, or so she thought. This woman was in fact a truly talented woman with mystic insights that bordered on the impossibility. She was furious with Avorinas deception and in her rage she cursed her child and his entire bloodline, or so the story goes to explain away the whimsical fate of madness beset upon the boy. Avorina was horrified, and slipped into a deep, unnatural sleep. For one month she was bedridden and had constant nightmares until eventual she died, nearly a week before Avo's father returned. Zothar had finally become captain of his own prize and was joyous upon his return, only to find Avo crying in a corner covered in blankets and his wife dead from wasting sickness. So they said. The father of this unfortunate child knew no other remedy, and thinking the entire situation too strange to deal with he took the child and brought him onto his ship and left the Roost. Avo was a small boy, not deemed very much of a sailor from appearances sake, but nonetheless gained favor with the crew by quickly picking up several of the tricks of the trade. He would traverse the ship with swiftness and grace, helping here and there with the tasks that needed doing. All the while he suffered from madness which struck him blind and senseless on occassion. The sailors were uneasy at first and thought him tainted by the red waters but of course his father's stature and the fear he cultivated from his men kept them from tossing the boy overboard. After several years on his father's ship, he had learned to do nearly everything that needed done on a ship. The crew loved Avo despite his odd nature and strange mannerisms. So it was only natural that when Zothar was aged he was promoted to captain. By this point his madness had grown into a core part of his being and through it he gained a reputation for being insightful in ways that bordered on the impossible and yet still he turns to drugs, drink and the embrace of solace to deal with his problems. Not a bad thing at all and for this very reason his family line managed to avoid much of the extinguishment that the rest of the Darkcrows suffered beneath the hands of the Seraceni's righteous steel and the flames of war. Perhaps this is why he serves the House today, coming all the way from the Roost to serve the interests of the Clan and the House alike.
interests of the Clan and the House alike. +
Azova was a treasured daughter who grew up …
Azova was a treasured daughter who grew up with the pampered life of a noble and yet found it left her empty and cold. Instinctively conscious of her privilege even at a young age, she observed her family’s place in the world with a certain level of native uncertainty for its justice, and focused hard on her studies with the seraph on anything that she could learn that might justify her position. So it was not that surprising, as she blossomed into an earnest, educated young woman, that she blossomed into one with a keen desire to find ways to give back to the world and to help others. Well-intentioned idealism is not the only pathway to the physicians’ guild and the Mercies of Lagoma, but it is a well-traveled one, and there were friends and mentors to help guide Azova on her way. With the support of her family and a dewy-eyed hope about the future, Azova ventured forth to Arx. During the Silent War, she cut her teeth on battle, and saw horrors that quenched her initial idealized version of being a battlefield medic in blood and terror. Others might have wilted back and sought a quieter life, a quieter service, when subjected to such early trauma in their career, but not Azova. She was a noblewoman, a daughter of House Darkwater, a lover of Lagoma, and above all other things, a healer. She had studied to be a doctor where she was most needed, and this was a trial by fire that left her with grim determination to succeed.
ft her with grim determination to succeed. +
Background +
Bahiya grew up a beloved child of minor no …
Bahiya grew up a beloved child of minor nobility, her peaceful, idyllic childhood marred only by a singular accident that robbed her of her sight. Adaptation required a strength of character that bloomed easily and surpised no one; sightless or not, her family found it hard for her to be anything less than independent and gracious. Well loved and well educated, there wasn't anything she didn't want to learn, the girl having an especially keen ear for language fostered early. It's very difficult to grow up loving your life, your people, your place in the world, even the path that unfurls before you, when you disagree so heartily on something so fundumental to it all: slavery. It's a dangerous thing to disagree with salvery among the Eurusi, but from a young age Bahiya struggled to keep her ideals hidden. Life as a courtier, an influencer, and an advisor, settling into the official role of diplomat came naturally to the educated young woman. Finding her words weighed seriously by members of court, both the respected and the powerful, it was Prince Damik'uhl'daja who eventually brought her into his retinue. Kenjay, her bodyguard, was a slave in her service until they came to Arx, Bahiya's first order of business to free him gaining her an unexpected companion in this foreign country. His freedom is a release of her own as well, as she no longer needs to hide her formerly forbidden ideals among the people of the Compact.
en ideals among the people of the Compact. +
Baltus Darkwater was born to the life of t …
Baltus Darkwater was born to the life of the sea, like many of the Saffron Isles. Being a man of the sea goes is in his blood for it goes back generations. His love of the waters might be aided by the fact he was born on the Isles, more specifically Cielos Encantadores. There he was raised, mostly by his mother, along with his siblings. He was taught a mix of being a proper nobleman and sailor, making him both regal and crude, yet charismatic as a leader. When he was old enough he started travelling with his father on the seas, learning the way of a future captain of a ship. He spent his times in port in the arms of a woman he could seduce with his confidence and charm, though, because he was on the more serious side his choices were limited despite his looks. When his mother died at the birth of his youngest sibling Baltus and his father agreed that Baltus would spend a little more time on shore attending to his siblings to assure they were properly raised. He still spent time on the sea but less until his younger siblings were old enough to take care of themselves. During one of his times at port in Arx, a very brief port, Baltus met his wife to be. A Whisper and the epitome of beauty, at least to him. During his time in Arx he spent every available moment with her, trying to woo her. He managed to woo her enough to get her to agree to keep in contact via letters and to meet each time he managed to get to Arx. Baltus took every trade he could to get to Arx and spent his time there with the Whisper, Carita, and with her he built a grand romance. He had to fight to make Carita his wife, for she was common - even though she was a Whisper. Carita was his grand love. With her he has, thus far, had one child. And yet things took a dark turn soon enough, and they went from a grand romance, to estranged, to divorced. Still she remained a Darkwater, something very difficult for Baltus to understand - particularly when she was made a Voice over him. But all of that seemed less important after Darrow died defending Darkwater against the Fleet. Though Carita had ordered the place evacuated, still this was his home, and now he has determined to spend his efforts showing what a true-born noble can do - rebuild his home, strengthen his people, and lead well into the future.
his people, and lead well into the future. +
Barik's life begun in the Western oathland …
Barik's life begun in the Western oathlands that belonged to the Kingdom. His family was one of proper means- his father an auspicious, and beloved bard who went from home to home leaving little crumps of happiness, and sometimes more than that. His mother wouldn't complain, he always came home with coin, and for a woman who had spend her whole life in poverty it was sufficient for her. The inherently independent Barik took to hunting rather than singing; he took to trekking through the wilderness and adventuring to far-gone townships rather than inherit the legacy set by his lascivious father. Since his departure from family grounds, Barik has been on a quest of acquiring meaning- meaning that hasn't been manifested, yet hopes to find in the very Capital of the continent.
find in the very Capital of the continent. +
Bashira was a Thrall, much like her brothe …
Bashira was a Thrall, much like her brother, Caspian. As were her mother and father. Her parents died and they inherited their debt. To say that their life was not easy was an understatement. But there was a light in the form of Princess Donella Thrax releasing them from their Thralldom. Bashira was sixteen and Caspian was nineteen. Going from life as a Thrall was not hard for her, that was until Caspian said that he was going to leave for Arx and become a mercenary. This did not upset her. Her brother needed to walk his own path and he had taken care of her. She was a bit upset with him when she found out that he'd changed his last name, but, she let it go. She stayed in the Mourning Isles, determined to find out more about their Tribe. Wanting to find some remnant of their family. But that turned out to be far more difficult. So she started to learn a trade, working on merchant ships as a sailor. When she wasnt working, she was doing her best to absorb every bit of knowledge she could about the Island Shav culture and things related to it. Caspian wrote her diligently. Through these she learned more of what he was doing, but she knew something was amiss. Call it sibling intuition. She continued to work hard though, finally going back to learning new skills. She was surprised recently by a letter from her brother, asking if she can meet him when he visits the Mourning Isles on the Champions Tour.
the Mourning Isles on the Champions Tour. +
Basilio or "Basi", as his crewmates call h …
Basilio or "Basi", as his crewmates call him for shorter name convenience, is not one with much to be recorded in the annals of history. Hailing from the Saffron Chain, grown up around Darkwater docks, he had neither memory nor keepsake of either of his biological parents as he was thrust into this world of salt, sea, and scoundrels. He was taken in and raised by a crusty old cook who lived in the company of the tropics' Lower natives and worked on a Thraxian ship. While occasionally a pilferer when the need or urge arises, Basilio thrives more when able to jump from one odd job to the next. As such, he has garnered a bit of a reputation back home as "that boy who can probably do the thing". His foster father managed to squirrel him into some more stable employ on the same sailing vessel as a rigger. The ship has recently docked in Arx but, unfortunately, some political issues surrounding their current Captain and Quartermaster have left the crew in shambles and Basilio without a job (because good cooks are always in demand).
(because good cooks are always in demand). +
Bastien came to Arx as a young man in his …
Bastien came to Arx as a young man in his early twenties with far more pride and attitude than the silver in his pockets warranted and with ambition of great artistry. Surprisingly -- to Bastien, at least -- these ambitions were not /immediately/ fulfilled by wild success and acclaim. He's been toiling away, mostly in the underbelly of the city, but eventually towards more of the mediocre middle once he found enough steady work over the past decade. The focus of his work is in playwrighting, and he became known -- at least within a small community of arts lovers -- for having a particular affection for plays of political and cultural commentary with a taste for the avant garde. Of course, sometimes he just needs to write a comedy where everyone gets married in the end, if for no other reason than to pay the bills. But he doesn't do it /gladly/.
the bills. But he doesn't do it /gladly/. +
Baz is a Thornburn, and she couldn't have …
Baz is a Thornburn, and she couldn't have been born into a better family. Full of artists already, it's how the woman's writing was nurtured, and so one can't say lack of nurturing is why Baz turned into an acerbic recluse, obssessed with finding the perfect muse, with writing plays that shape the Dream itself. She's had critical acclaim, she's tasted the dizzying, drugging heights of seeing her work spread across the land. But the mercurial playwright has also sampled the bitter dregs of bad reviews, has fallen into black despair at the smallest criticism, hiding herself away in her family home back in Arx, chainsmoking and writing drivel for months until the cycle repeats.
drivel for months until the cycle repeats. +
Beaten into shape, that is how Tobias woul …
Beaten into shape, that is how Tobias would describe having spent his childhood. He was everything his father is not, but being the oldest son, he was expected to one day take over as General from his father. Indeed, Tobias threw himself into his studies and training quite well, but compensated for his own sanity with indulging himself excessively outside of his daily training... a fact that drove his father to press him even harder. After all, if he had the energy for pursuing sports and women, he had energy to do more training. This vicious cycle took most of his teenage years... until finally, he seduced Beatrice Grimhall at a wedding reception, and spent a month doing semi-nightly 'meetings' with her before they were caught by the Telmar Guard. Furious, Duke Grimhall demanded that Arn arrange a marriage to his daughter. Never more than a casual dalliance to find some measure of enjoyment in his fathers relentless schedule, Tobias outright refused, setting off a dispute between father and son that ended with Tobias disappearing a week later, under the cover of night. It's been many years since that night, with Tobias coming back to public Compact life as the Lord General of the Crimson Blades. He's spoken very little of the five years he had disappeared to anyone, and has seen the Crimson Blades through the Silent War with skill and professionalism, along with many other contracts. Tobias might be the black sheep heir of House Telmar for now, but there's no denying he's a skilled general and warrior in his own right.
lled general and warrior in his own right. +
Beatrice's parents ran a shipping business …
Beatrice's parents ran a shipping business out of Caith. The family did well enough, though at any given moment their entire fortune was wrapped up in some expedition or another, or it was drained to repair a ship, or something else meant constant scrimping and saving. As she grew, she watched her parents celebrate new deals and weep when a ship was lost. She saw how the pair went to bed every night exhausted. She watched as years and years of grueling, painful work netted them almost nothing. Beatrice decided that was not the life for her. The woman was allowed out of the warehouses and away from the ledgers when she turned seventeen. It wasn't that she wasn't an excellent bookkeeper, she just wanted to see more. She was soon first mate aboard one of her mother's ships. At twenty-one, after a most unfortunate accident during a storm, Beatrice's ship was out a captain, and she was quick to take the job. By twenty-three, Beatrice was soon raking in piles of silver, all off the books and without her parents' knowledge. Beatrice had learned quickly the fine art of smuggling. She had fallen in with the Argento family, who ruled Nilanza back then. After financially supporting a failed attempt to overthrow the Pravus family, Argento was hurting for funds. They turned to illegal goods, and Beatrice became their primary mover. It was good, easy, fun work. In the next couple of years, Beatrice left her family's company to work exclusively for Argento and oversee their ports and smuggling operations. Things were going well, until it seemed the Pravus family had figured out everything. Fearing Beatrice might flip on Argento, the family ennobled her. If she was an Argento herself, they reasoned, she'd be seen as guilty. She would be unable to turn against the family without getting herself imprisoned or worse. And they were right. Beatrice fed information to the Pravus family. She saw the coming wave. She knew this would only end one way. And when the soldiers came to collect her, as they came to collect every Argento, she went into her cell with chin held high. A year later, Beatrice has emerged from the dark of her imprisonment. In that time she not only convinced Marquessa Lianne that she was the one who had turned against her oath-breaking family, but that she was also ready to serve once more... not to mention too useful to have locked away. Beatrice was declared innocent of treason, and the time she served plenty to cover her other misdeeds. She surely wouldn't pick back up her old illegal ties, not after being granted her freedom! No, surely not. Now, she is still a noble, sworn wholly to House Malespero, and eager to get Nilanza back in proper order.
eager to get Nilanza back in proper order. +
Beatrix and her twin sister Margaux were b …
Beatrix and her twin sister Margaux were born in the beautiful city of Tor to a branch of the Corsetina family. Unfortunately for them, their youth was during the troubled time of the Tor-Southport War, when Count Lucien Malvici had usurped the rule of the Fidante family, and their early years was spent evading the horrors of war, the cruelty of the well born, and dreaming of one day having the peace and luxury of the nobility for themselves. As women the two sisters rose notoriety. Beatrix was a well-known muse to many artists in the city, her dalliances with upper crust commoners and even some nobles sparking many rivalries and a lot of drama, her ambition and boldness unafraid to make the occasional enemy. Margaux's fame was darker, the shadowy woman having become a criminal of ill-repute who avoided capture time and again, ahead of those who set themselves to catch her every time. Their paths diverging, the elite called Beatrix their White Thorn, bright and perfect, and in time a noblewoman of the Fidante vassal of House Floris was so taken by Beatrix, the noble asked her in marriage, giving up rank and title (if not wealth) to join in marriage. The tragedy that followed quickly became the talk of some of some of the Lycene city-states, and the common consensus was the following drama occured: Feeling like she had been left behind by her sister, the violent Margaux murdered Beatrix's wife a day after their wedding. The White Thorn woke up that morning by her dead spouse's side, the former noble's chest carved open by with a single, bloody white rose stuck into the exposed heart. The noblewoman-turned-commoner's former House couldn't accuse Beatrix of the deed as she would be the one to lose any benefits gained from tying herself, even if haphazzardly, to nobility. The answer was obviously Margaux, and the hunt began immediately. Beatrix, alone and afraid, worried that once the Floris were done hunting down Margaux they could come for her. She was just a commoner, after all, why would they stay their vengeance and stop at one Corsetina? With the heat too much for to handle in Tor Beatrix left for Arx where she has since found and sought refugee with the rest of her family, hoping she can rebuild her life away from Tor and her sister. But Beatrix is already recovering. Bloodied and hunted she might be, she's still the ambitious young woman that was unafraid of obstacles in her path. She'll have her wealth and safety again, and woe be to those who stand in her way.
and woe be to those who stand in her way. +
Because he was the second child of Duke Ed …
Because he was the second child of Duke Edmund Laurent by a number of years, Cristoph was educated as the 'spare' to his sister's heir. He showed considerable aptitude for the soldier's trade, and generally expected that it would be the knightly service of the ducal seat that would be his life's work. Yet his path was not so set when she struck herself from the rolls of House Laurent. His sister was in her early twenties when she left the laity sisterhood of Gloria to be truly godsworn and throw herself into the Faith. That left Cristoph a boy coming to his adulthood in a changing universe. (It also killed a potential marriage alliance with another ducal house, but never mind. There will always be more potential brides, right?) Yet the mantle of heirdom did not sit easily on Cristoph's shoulders. He was accustomed to a soldier's trade, a soldier's goals, and he hungered for the glory of the battlefield. He risked himself early and often, leading from the front and leading the charge ahorse against the Shavs even as a young man. Badly injured to within a few inches of his life in a skirmish a few years ago, his men prevailed upon him to control his more glory-hound impulses; his father had lost one heir to a different kind of duty, and it would be terrible to lose another, particularly with his younger sister so very much younger. In order to accustom Cristoph to responsibility and grow him into his role as the future duke, he was made Voice of Laurent, and threw himself into the work with a will to prove himself, first while he lay recovering in an infirmary bed, and then afterwards when he was wholly recovered. He proved a pragmatic thinker and a capable organizer. So it was that when the duke fell ill and died in the spring of 1005 and he took the reins of the duchy, it was with several years solid experience under his belt, as a leader of men whose vibrancy was newly tempered by patience.
e vibrancy was newly tempered by patience. +
Bedivere Tyndall is a retired general know …
Bedivere Tyndall is a retired general known for commanding the 8th Lancer Unit of the Bisland army during many skirmishes against hostile shav'arani tribes in the Crownlands. A son of Sir Harry "the Hotspur" Tyndall, Bedivere was groomed for command at an early age and distinguished himself apart from his peers once he joined the ranks of the Bisland military, at the ripe age of eighteen. He made friends and quickly ascended the ranks, culminating in him becoming one of the youngest generals to ever be appointed. He developed a reputation as an expert horseman and set an equestrian high-jump record that stood for almost 15 years. Ahead of him seemed to be a promising military future -- one likely to be longer than that of his notoriously hot-headed father. That is, until he suffered his first true loss on the battlefield and was captured by a particularly vindictive chieftain. For having slaughtered his sons, the chieftain refused to execute Bedivere outright, and instead severed his right hand, killed his men in front of him, and proceeded to torture him for weeks on end. He was saved by another unit, and he recovered physically, but the mental scars were permanent. In anguish, Bedivere retired from the military at the age of thirty and returned to his home in Old Oak, where he married his childhood sweetheart and began a family. He attempted to become a farmer to acquire the income to support his family, but his injury made him heavily reliant on paid help, and the fickleness of the harvest made their financial fortunes precarious at best. In early 1006 AR, his wife Lynette fell ill and unexpectedly passed away, leaving him to raise his two children alone. As fortune would have it, his nephew would be ennobled later the same year, and offered him a position as Marshal of Hawkhold -- and with it ennoblement and enough silver to comfortably provide for his family. Bedivere accepted, his mind still sharp as ever, though his reflexes notably less so. Upon visiting the city for the first time in many years, Bedivere accepted a position within the Knights of Solace, seeking a position to re-train his rusty skills and lend his assistance to a worthy cause when his duties at Hawkhold do not overwhelm him.
s duties at Hawkhold do not overwhelm him. +
Being a young girl who has never known her …
Being a young girl who has never known her parents, life has been rather difficult for Anastajia. She knew her strengths were in making people happy, and decided she would make a living out of doing just that. You may think one in a situation such as hers would lose their way in life, but she resolved to keep her head held high and take it one step at a time, literally. Entertaining people was in her blood, and with the various skills she had picked up along the way, as well as her aptitude for dance, she was able to make a enough money to get by. She may not be wealthy, and may appear to be all alone in this world, but the fact remains that she is gifted with the ability to touch the hearts of everyone she meets. Because of this, she never feels like she is alone in the world.
ever feels like she is alone in the world. +
Being born a Lord of Grimhall was to be bo …
Being born a Lord of Grimhall was to be born to privilege he never wanted, and obligations he never asked for. From a young age, he was fascinated by the court of Arx, with its fashions and grandeur, but that wasn't what was expected of a Grimhall lord. He was to be a solider, to set aside any frivolity, and to marry a wife in a political match eventually. His sister Jadzia was set to marry someone far off in the Lyceum by the time they were 18. It wasn't what she wanted, but she was more resigned to her familial sense of duty than Bjorn. He still hoped he could avoid it, spending time with a handsome courtier named Thomas who acted as a tutor, and filled the young man's head with tales of the capital city of Arx Still, despite wishing to do little more than spend time with the young man who had won his heart, Bjorn was to be a soldier. While Bjorn was far from weak as a young man, he had always been built for speed and agility compared to his hulking and brawny older brothers, who mercilessly abused him in training and mocked him ruthlessly as he learned. His father, without consulting the young man, informed Bjorn was due to marry in the Oathlands, and would be marrying out of the family. He'd likely not see home, and Thomas, again for years. Rather than face that, Bjorn did the near unthinkable for a noble, and renounced his title, traveling to Arx to live with his sympathetic Aunt Mahin in the Ward of House Thrax. That put him in contact with the Crimson Blades who had been hired by Aunt Mahin to protect her very small estate. He began to spar with them and soon caught the attention of their Lieutenant. It wasn't long till he was signing papers with his aunt's blessing, and despite the heartache at leaving home and those he cared about behind, he felt happy. Briefly happy. He received word of his aunt's brutal murder during his Crimson Blade training. Apparently, he had not been gone a day before someone killed her. Sliced her flesh into ribbons. House Thrax's guardsmen even permitted the Inquisition to look into the matter, but the guilty were never found. Her last wish was he be happy and do well in the Blades, to follow his heart. And so he has. Throwing himself into the Blades that welcomed him, despite his name, like family. And it became real a few years later when Thomas joined the Blades as an adjunct healer for a contract. They fell in love and got married. Everything was going so well. Then came the Silent War. At the end of it he survived, but according to records his husband's position was overrun. He never even saw the body. Other men would have fallen to drink or worse, he fell to killing and focusing on his work. Taking the pain and making it useful.
ork. Taking the pain and making it useful. +
Being born in Velenosa means that eventual …
Being born in Velenosa means that eventually, all citizens must learn to either deal with the many tricks, machinations, and horrors the houses inflict on each other, mostly in 'private', or learn to ignore and avoid them. Lekan learned at an early age that he had a steady hand, a lack of issue with the shedding of blood, and a desire to have the fine things of life. At first, he was a steadfast worshipper of the Pantheon, but years of harsh, vicious back-alley fights and backstabbing intrigue that, despite all prayers to the contrary, has left almost everyone he ever knew (family, friends, loved one) dead in gutters or vanished? He believes in nothing. Well, that's not quite true. He believes in his own sword-arm. He believes in coin he can touch. He believes in women, or at least that they exist. He believes that people can use him. So he comes to Arx, the sour taste of a deal gone badly being rather hopefully left behind as he hopes to make a new life in this city.
he hopes to make a new life in this city. +
Being born into the Ironfoot clan meant be …
Being born into the Ironfoot clan meant being as hard as the metal from their namesake. His ancestors got their name because they were so tough, so relentless that none could match their stamina in battle. Being the second second of Tuscak, an Abandoned shav traditionalist who was fed on the fires of hate for the Compact, he was raised to raid and burn the fields of his enemy. His mother shook him from her skirts when he was old enough to stand on his own. Any weakness or tenderness was beaten out of him by the time he was ten. When his father put a bow in his hand, because his leaner stature and keen eye made him a natural, he practiced with the intent that he would make his father proud. Brand was a plaque upon the Abandoned Tribes of the Oathlands. He took the fuel of hate that lived in the Ironfoot's hearts and fanned it out of control. Kanean was there along side his father and brother, possessed by the dark magic to deal death to the citizens of Arx. He felled many that day. But the Gods that protect the Compact managed to break Brand and release the Abandoned tribes that were under his sway. Leaving the once proud tribe broken, leaderless. His father was angry the day the Oathlanders came to the encampment to gloat over their handiwork. He urged Kanean and his brother to enter the crowds, warning others not to listen to the false promises that bending knee would bring. He watched as his cousin was brought on stage, a boy too young to be cheiftain. Then it all fell apart. An Oathlander with the help of Rivenshari arrested his brother and himself. He was sent to prison with the outrageous crime of trying to murder his own cousin. He was caged with his brother for months, even after his father died in a trial by combat. It was during his captivity that he learned the truth, the horrible story of how his father tried to get his cousin to light himself and his sisters on fire to protest the Compact. How his father tried to start war again before his people had even recovered. When they were brought to trial, to speak to the tribunal, Kanean denounced what his father had done and gladly bent on knee to Count Athaur Rivenshari. He took an oath that would bind him to the Compact that he once fought. While he will make up for his past wrongs, he is not broken. He is still of Ironfoot.
he is not broken. He is still of Ironfoot. +
Being born into the Ironfoot clan meant be …
Being born into the Ironfoot clan meant being as hard as the metal from their namesake. His ancestors got their name because they were of Iron, unbent by war or bloodshed. They were a proud family with a strong heritage. Abellus has tried his whole life to live up to his name. Being the first son of Tuscak, an Abandoned shav traditionalist who was fed on the fires of hate for the Compact, he bore the same hatred for those that would try to break the Abandoned Tribes and force them on their knees. His mother was a wise woman who had her man's back. She never let him cry as a child, and made sure he would be as strong as his father. Yes, the early years of training and fists were hard but they forged him to be stronger, better than the weak Oathlanders that hide behind their armor and castle walls. When his father taught him in all manner of weapons, from the bow to the great sword. He favored the great axe in his mighty hands. Brand was a plaque upon the Abandoned Tribes of the Oathlands. He took the fuel of hate that lived in the Ironfoot's hearts and fanned it out of control. Abellus was there along side his father and brother, possessed by the dark magic to deal death to the citizens of Arx. He felled many that day. But the Gods that protect the Compact managed to break Brand and release the Abandoned tribes that were under his sway. Leaving the once proud tribe broken, leaderless. His father was angry the day the Oathlanders came to the encampment to gloat over their handiwork. He urged Abellus and his brother to enter the crowds, warning others not to listen to the false promises that bending knee would bring. He watched as his cousin was brought on stage, a boy too young to be cheiftain. Then he was betrayed by another Abandoned, arrested and brought to prison before he could blink. An Oathlander with the help of Rivenshari arrested his brother and himself. He was sent to prison with the outrageous crime of trying to murder his own cousin. He was caged with his brother for months, even after his father died in a trial by combat. It was during his captivity that he learned the proganda, the story of how his father tried to get his cousin to light himself and his sisters on fire to protest the Compact. How his father tried to start war again before his people had even recovered. While he did not wish to see his cousin die, he does not hate his father for his desperate actions. When they were brought to trial, to speak to the tribunal, Kanean denounced what his father had done and gladly bent on knee to Count Athaur Rivenshari. He took an oath that would bind him to the Compact that they once fought. Abellus was forced to make a decision. He could refuse and die. Or he could swallow his pride and go on bended knee. Even though he knew his father was rolling in his grave, he knealt and took an oath so that he could continue to watch out for his brother. He will keep his oaths because he is a man of honor.
ep his oaths because he is a man of honor. +
Being born with parents who travel a lot c …
Being born with parents who travel a lot can take a toll on young children, stripping them of their ability to make friends. Especially when that young child grows up an only child, to a family that favors books than socializing. Ilmia Leary, on the other hand, is a unique case. All of these obstacles were just challenges for the young Leary girl, and oh, does she love a challenge. Everywhere her family went, Ilmia immediately put in the work and effort to make as many friends as she possibly could before the next move. It was practically like a game to her, with a ledge she kept to record her 'score' as she went. Not that she needed a book, considering her exceptionally keen memory. When she came of age, Ilmia set off on her own, seeking to make a name for herself rather than just piggy-backing off of her father's name and relic collecting reputation. No place is safe. From the coldest of Redrain lands, to the most liberal cities of the South. Now, however, it's time to explore one of the most prominent cites in the whole Compact: Arx.
prominent cites in the whole Compact: Arx. +
Being one of seven children has its challe …
Being one of seven children has its challenges. For starters, if you're not the oldest or the youngest, you might end up blending somewhere in the middle. Eithne blended into the mix for many of her formative years until she decided enough was enough. Her mother always wanted her girls to pick up a trade and be skilled. Her father didn't seem to care what they wanted to do. When Eithne decided on following in her father's footsteps, it irritated her mother who doesn't think a woman's place is in a forge but her father couldn't be more thrilled. He took her under his wing and showed her everything he knew. A father couldn't be more proud of his child when Eithne not only learned the trade but excelled. It wasn't long before Eithne was showing her old man a few tricks of the trade. Born and bred in Arx, Eithne's family the Thornburn's are from the Upper Boroughs. Her siblings are all pretty successful in their own ways. These days, Eithne has herself a great clientele of customers who live and breathe in their armor. She's even secured a few who are daring enough to be 'guinea pigs' for some prototypes she's been working on. Nothing concrete yet, nothing that she can actually sell or market, but at least she's innovative! I comparison to most young women her age, Eithne isn't interested in marriage or children at the moment. She's very focused and driven on her career. There are so many other more important things to do than to be tied down, barefoot and pregnant. For example, learning how to fight and competing in amateur competitions or spending all night playing cards at the local tavern.
l night playing cards at the local tavern. +
Being the eighth of eigth children is some …
Being the eighth of eigth children is something of an achivement. It signals the end of an age, the definite decision of a mother that she is quite done with bearing children into the world. And the distinct impression of being unwanted, of being that one extra bite of the cake soon made to regret by an uppity stomach. Itzal's childhood was not one surrounded by motherly warmth, but rather by the rough upbringing expected from older siblings, various uncles and aunts, and the harsh words of a resentful progenitor. Itzal wasn't alone in this situation, however. While having been born so shortly after the seventh was most likely one of the reasons why his mother chose to never have children again (and keep that oath till death came for her), it also gave him a sibling of his age to share much of his experiences with. That sibling was Mae, his older sister, and she proved a lifeline of sanity, madness, peace and trouble that he could never have done without. It should come as no surprise then that he developped a similar way to avoid trouble, and tasks. Indeed, he swiftly became known to vanish as soon as work needed to be done, and prove so difficult to find that doing it themselves was usually less work for his family than to find the youngest Culler. While his skill at hiding would eventually force him to perform particular jobs, it also granted him more free time than most. That free time, he would spend listening to the various musicians of the city, listening to reciting poets or sneaking into the theater to witness the latest plays. It changed him, those outings of his, and soon he was making his own music and writing his own poetry... with various results. It's not that he was bad at it, though he had much to learn. It's that he found entirely too much amusement mocking his audience as impressing it, making fools of nobles that might have proven wealthy patrons with his wit and sharp sense of humour. The life of a courtier held no interest for him, yet if not that, what? The answer came when he was seventeen. One day, he was simply... gone. No word, no warning, just gone. Off to travel the world, it was assumed, when he didn't return for days, and then weeks. Gone, or dead. It hardly mattered for anyone but those closest to him. Time passed, till five years had come and gone. The King had fallen to his restless sleep, woken up again, Arx had suffered an invasion and siege and now prepared for another battle, High Lords and Ladies had come and gone, and Itzal returned as if nothing had happened. Giving various tales, each grander and more impossible than the last, he never gave a straight answer as to where he had gone, or why he had left. Yet he has returned, and now seems happy to have returned to the Lowers of his youth... and resume his various other activities.
. and resume his various other activities. +
Being the youngest child of the youngest c …
Being the youngest child of the youngest child of his grandfather is a crime against fate that Seth will never forget. It didn't help that his brother Padraig grew tall and strong while Seth faced a childhood filled with sickness. He may have recovered, but it was too late, his father, Gregor, had already poured all his hopes and dreams into Padraig, and Padraig was even knighted by his uncle Frederik. There was no resentment towards Padraig, no, Seth spent the better half of his life despising his father, for his harsh criticism, unyielding loyalty to Frederik, and last but not least, the biggest crime of all: not loving Seth. But how could he, when Padraig was so great? Seth more then looked up to Padraig, he worshipped the ground he walked on. Padraig taught Seth how to trust no one but himself, how honor is only as important as what it earns you. This is why Seth agreed to follow his brother's scheme to depose Frederik and put the Chillhearted on the seat of the Highhill. The plot didn't go as planned. While Padraig fought Frederik in an honor duel in the Great Hall, Seth's job was to hold his cousin Sara and her mother Lydia hostage. It went poorly, even with his sword drawn and her unarmed, he was no match for the knight Lydia was, and by the time his brother was slain he was already locked in the room he planned to hold them in. It was Frederik's mercy after an oath of fealty that led to his release, and while the rest of the Steelharts grieved over the next tragedy, Lydia's suicide when her son's corpse was carted home, Seth sulked. What the future holds for him, only time will tell.
future holds for him, only time will tell. +
Being the youngest of many siblings meant …
Being the youngest of many siblings meant that there would be no great inheritence or weighty duty for Lenne. At best she would see a political marriage or minor office to oversee. Some would find that a bitter fate, but for Lenne it meant freedom her elder siblings couldn't have. She used it to its fullest. As a child, she was a parent's nightmare, vanishing for days into the forest, to return filthy and babbling excitedly about what she saw. She was delighted to be scolded with being homebound, pestering others for stories, or sneaking into the libraries. It never got better. She was equally infuriating as a youth, and worse as a teenager. Anatomy, history, theology, naturalism, spirit lore. No subject was safe from her scrutiny. No question was too obscure to escape examination. In desperation, her parents directed her to hobbies, and to their credit, it was somewhat successful. Some of her hours were spend safely working as a Mercy's Aid. Others with the Scholars, where her curiosity could be, at least, tolerated. Of late, her passion has been the unacceptably fractured history of the world. So when her parents announced she was to be sent to Arx, to gain proper 'seasoning' befitting her standing, she was overjoyed. What better place to figure out the truth of things than at the seat of so much of history?
gs than at the seat of so much of history? +
Bell Cleck (not his original name) is one …
Bell Cleck (not his original name) is one of the many Eurusi refugees settled in the wake of the "freeing folk in the Saffron Chain" matter, and one who chose to go Crownsworn rather than settle on holdings as a serf. He says little about his old life. He's about looking forward. While he dabbles, generally, with selling and reselling, his key focus is on his apothecary business. As he will say with a gently sardonic smile, "Any slave worth his salves learns how to cover up the scent of blood."
earns how to cover up the scent of blood." +
Bellamy Redrain is the-later-in-life-child …
Bellamy Redrain is the-later-in-life-child of a Laurent Lady turned Redrain Princess. As an infant they were concerned that she would not survive. For the first months of her life she struggled to draw enough air to breathe, but somehow she made it into her first year and then beyond. Her mother would remark that has a baby she was utterly determined to live... She should have grown into a woman with a steel spine. She should have grown up with the same sort of dogged determination as her older sister. She didn't. Nor did she grown into a person with the sense of adventure and wonderment that her older brother did. No, instead, a cossetted, pampered, and perhaps just too sheltered, childhood lead to a soft, sensitive woman. In childhood while many Redrain princesses might have trained with the sword, or shield and spear, or perhaps an axe... She was not. She took an interest in it once, and it took quite the argument and persuasion with her mother to allow her to even begin her lessons. And as soon as she got the fainted of scratch (and started crying over it) she was forbidden to try again, and the tutor given a stern lecture. And this was how it was for every thing that Bellamy might have pursued. As soon as it became a touch difficult she was either forbidden by her mother to continue or was allowed to stop because her mother couldn't bear her tears. And so, the only thing she became good at were non-dangerous things or things she had a natural aptitude to for; such as research (strictly in the archives, of course), and social interactions with others. Indeed, if she weren't so kind hearted she might make a skilled diplomat. However, even The Softest Princess can ignore the call of adventure and the excitement of Arx for so long... and after a year of fighting with her mother she was allowed to travel south and join her older siblings in the great city.
join her older siblings in the great city. +
Benedict is known to be the son of a black …
Benedict is known to be the son of a blacksmith, in a very long line of blacksmiths. Though years after swearing fealty to House Fidante, and serving in the ranks as a soldier in their Army, he attained the rank of Sergeant. Not long after which, amazing deeds and acts of bravery and fighting skill earned him a battlefield promotion to Lieutenant, and soon after, Knighthood within house Fidante.
on after, Knighthood within house Fidante. +
Berenice grew up afforded all of the privi …
Berenice grew up afforded all of the privilege and benefits one might expect for a Velenosan princess: she has never wanted for much, and what she did want for, she often wheedled her way into getting. She had a knack for the social web of Lenosia that her family identified and cultivated early, and she did well having some direction rather than letting her whims take her wherever she wished. As a rather indirect cousin to the main branch of the family, she had to make a bit of noise to get noticed, but she was nothing if not willful. Unfortunately, she was also not /entirely/ tamable to her family's will: when a potential match with an upstanding Valardin prince began to be arranged, and she found herself violently, VEHEMENTLY against the idea of being shipped off to the OATHLANDS, she /may/ have misbehaved herself /just/ enough during a visit to muddle the whole affair before it got too far. Instead of the Oathlands, she ended up shipped to Arx, where it was determined she would make herself useful if she was going to make a mess elsewhere.
if she was going to make a mess elsewhere. +
Bernardino Corsetina will be the first to …
Bernardino Corsetina will be the first to admit that he's not pure of heart, selfless, or has any pretentions to be a hero, but then go right along in deeds that might amount to doing just that. As a very young man, he was listless and flighty, first thinking he'd become a great courtier, charming everyone at court when he finally got the chance to visit Arx, and maybe even becoming a Whisper. Then the dream was to be a scholar. And then he was studying swordsmanship under every local bravo he could in his tiny village of Setara Downs, a few leagues outside of Setarco. Unlike his flashy cousins making names for themselves in Arx, the young man found himself trapped in a provincial life and refused to be satisfied, much to the exasperation of his seamstress mother and scribe father. Tragedy changed all that. His latest whimsy had been studying with the Faith as he considered becoming a mirrormask, but all that came to a sudden halt when his parents were murdered during a festival for the Eclipse of Mirrors, underneath the light of the bloodmoon. Dino doesn't speak about the incident save that it haunts him that he could not save his parents, but it caused him to immediately set out for Arx, and swear to protect his family. The young man still has a bit of flighty behavior to him, and an optimism that borders on the naive, but it's tempered with a new determination. He might not call himself a hero, but he'll fight for his family, and to never be helpless again.
is family, and to never be helpless again. +
Bethany is the youngest child and only dau …
Bethany is the youngest child and only daughter of Adlai Mercier, a Grayson wine merchant of increasing wealth and repute. While most in the Borough scrape by, Bethany and her siblings enjoyed a childhood within the comfort of a large mansion in the Upper Borough. A great part of her early education came from her mother, who consulted Archscholar Aldwin Aurum for advice and hired a skilled Scholar of Vellichor to regularly tutor her children. In these studies she excelled: by the age of nine, Bethany could read and write three languages. Though he was often away from home, Master Adlai doted on his daughter and frequently boasted about her intellect to his social betters. Through her close relationship with her knightly brother, Bethany has even acquired knowledge of the basics of swordplay, though she lacks the physical strength needed to wield blades larger than a rapier. As a teenager, Bethany attended a noble wedding and impressed Lady Alarys Grayson with a performance on the piano. Upon being informed of Bethany's many talents and her father's desire to see her in high places in society, Alarys secured a position for Bethany within the royal household, if only as a servant. She was initially lukewarm towards the idea - though serving the Graysons was an honor, it hardly seemed to make use of her talents - until she met the young king in the Palace, and his Majesty Alaric Grayson IV seemed so shockingly indifferent to matters of economic policy that he actually asked the brand new young servant's opinion out of the blue on a matter of finance for the entire court. She quickly learned that most important matters were handled by his ministers and particularly the Voice of House Grayson, Lady Dawn, and that provided all the motivation she needed to know that even as a minor servant, her voice and talent could be meaningful at court.
e and talent could be meaningful at court. +
Big and dumb, those two words have set the …
Big and dumb, those two words have set the path for Hammar's life to this point. He has no real idea as to when he was born, just knows the date he was brought to the Orphanage, and so this is considered his birthday, for all that it matters. Hammar grew up in the Lower Boroughs, beating people up to get food, clothing and anything else that he considered essential goods. He was given a crudely made warhammer when he worked as a guard for a smithy in his youth, and has taught himself what could be considered the crude Lower Boroughs form of combat with said weapon. He knows he is likely too dumb to learn the proper use of the weapon, but his savagery when he is mad more than makes up for any practical training. Hammar went from job to job, working as a debt collector, bodyguard and selling his warhammer skill to get him through life. Hammar has used this skill to try and do better in his life, but he being not the most intelligent of men, he finds it difficult at times to figure out a sure path to get himself in a better situation. Despite this, he tries to get his name out there as a good whacker, and is certain he will make a difference eventually.
tain he will make a difference eventually. +
Blacktongue the Harlequin, the jester of H …
Blacktongue the Harlequin, the jester of House Velenosa, wouldn't have said that being a fool was his first career choice. He's never felt there was much job security in being a fool professionally when so many other people are willing to do it unwittingly for free. That said, he enjoys making others laugh, and Blacktongue vastly prefers his current method of making others laugh (telling jokes, for example) than his old one as the long time cupbearer and poison-taster for Archduchess Carlotta Velenosa, the Grand Duchess of the Lyceum. Given the choice, he's pretty sure anyone would rather tell a joke than produce scattered giggles by choking loudly and twitching on the ground, but he supposes there might be individuals of strange cares who would lean towards the latter. That being said, he enjoyed his time as the poison-taster for the most popular assassination target in the Lyceum, and leaving the post to become instead her fool wasn't really his choice and not really his fault. He simply become so tolerant of poisons that not only was he hardly harmed by some of the more popular toxic agents, some he could no longer detect at all- it only took one near miss with his beloved Archduchess for him to step down and no longer be the honorable Donato Artiglio, trusted hand of Archduchess Carlotta, and become instead her jester- Blacktongue the Harlequin. All things considered, it could be worse. By all rights, Blacktongue should have been dead a hundred times over; his tongue being coal black is a not-so-subtle reminder of that. But since he possessed the special providence that the gods always seemed to reserve for fools, and he had completely mastered the 'fall down and twitch' routine after trying most drinks sent to Carlotta by her innumerable enemies, it was a pretty natural progression. The way he figures, every single day he's granted is some questionable gift by the gods, and if he's making -them- laugh, then the rest of humanity should be no problem at all.
t of humanity should be no problem at all. +
Blair was born to one of the lesser famili …
Blair was born to one of the lesser families. She grew to the age of ten before her apparent abilities for the spirits came to light. She was pulled up by one of the elders of the family, taught in many of the traditions of the ways of the Shamans. During this time as well, she was trained to fight. She worked to master her combat and her shamanism. This is how she came to her position as a warrior, or as many might say, a knight. At the end of her tutelage, she was told to go out and experience the world, for her experiences would temper her soul and grant her wisdom beyond her years. Blair wandered for a few years until meeting up with the Crimson Blades. She was invited to join the mercenary band, as one of the newer Privates.
cenary band, as one of the newer Privates. +
Blessed, or cursed, with being one of many …
Blessed, or cursed, with being one of many cousins from a great big old family, there's little fear Donaldo will ever have any real responsibility. Or Power. There's a name and a title, sure, but there are more siblings and cousins than there are crowns and ministers. Bounced around from task to task as a youth, never really finding something that held his heart long enough to make a life with. Former Apprentice Cartographer, Former Apprentice Botanist, Former Apprentice Scribe, the list goes on and on. Somehow after wearing so many hats, he finally found a hat he could keep on for more than a year. For some years now, he's made his way as an explorer. Having gotten quite good at this, path-finding and plotting out things and discovering other things, he has come to Arx to expand his network. It's an interesting hobby, some will whisper, but if the specimens he manages to collect and the artifacts and tomes he uncovers keep his travel accounts full, then for once at least he can commit to being one thing for once.
he can commit to being one thing for once. +
Bonibel Barleycorn was born in the North …
Bonibel Barleycorn was born in the North to a small farming family. The second eldest of thirteen, she helped raise her cadre of brothers and sisters who al lent hands around the farm. Hard work and practicality were passed through the family, like hand me downs. Her mother had taken on the role of the healer and herbalist (and brewer) of the village and took Bonibel under her wing when she began to show signs of interest in tending sick animals and more than one occasion was found 'experimenting' in her mothers still. When Bonibel turned twenty she was swept off her feet by a foreigner visiting from the Crownlands. A roguish sort that took a liking to her both for her talent at brewing and her untamed wit and passion. The two married in a whirlwind romance and after a year with her family the whisked her off to a port city where he said he had found work for both of them. Her Husband's work was aboard a ship in Arx and while he was out to sea half of the year - his time away cause for the lack of children - and the young Apothecary was left in their small home in the Lowers to make extra silver. Three years later her husband's ship was said to have been lost at sea, taken by pirates or perhaps just lost in a squall no one could tell Bonibel for certain. Now a widow Bonibel works in the lowers brewing up scents, liquors and various tinctures to help aid the locals while keeping her larder full. She's kept to herself until recently but even a grieving heart can mend and the world can become new and exciting again..
world can become new and exciting again.. +
Bonnie was a child of two very different w …
Bonnie was a child of two very different worlds. Sir Bentley Shepherd, her father, was the sort of stiffly honorable man that seemed to believe that one couldn't even crack a smile or make a joke without somehow undermining the seriousness of one's duties. Even if those duties weren't particularly serious. But time and again, she was grilled on obligation, duty, responsibility, honor, and a dozen other roughly equivalent synonyms that made for life's most tedious thesaurus and childhood. Her slightly older brother, Malcolm, even caught more of it as the first born, but Bonnie decided from an early age that a knight's life was not even remotely for her. Yes, it was incredibly fascinating how a few hundred years ago they were part of a ducal line that was dishonored and cast out, and there still was a line of Shepherds that ruled a duchy, but it had absolutely nothing to do with her. On the other hand, unlike her brother, Bonnie took to the sword fighting practice with her father with as one of her first passions, though it was maddening to her father when Bonnie veered away from his knightly style and leaned immediately into the flamboyant, flashy Lycene duelist style that her mother Andromeda had mastered as a retired member of the Champions Guild. It was her father's loud condemnation of it that was the start of several fights that led to his divorce, and Andromeda running off to be a pirate. For Bonnie, this was a reminder that you can't please everyone, and set her on a fiercely independent path. After a few more years of trying to make it work with her father, the provincial and tedious life and constant lecturing about disciplined living just proved too much, and she set off to find her mother. Turns out, having an incredible natural talent with a blade, a scoundrel's flexible take on morality, some natural charisma, ambition and a very capable teacher really makes for a winning combination in being an exceedingly successful Naval Acquisitions Specialist. Her start at privateering startedly with (mostly) legal exploits such as fights with Abandoned raiders, acting as a sellsail, and convoy guarding, but she's fairly confident there's at least a half dozen smaller domains with grudges it would be unwise to visit. After her mother's comfortable retirement (the beaches in Setarco -are- very nice, she writes), Bonnie acquired quite a few names for herself (Black Bonnie? Bonnie the Red? Bonnie the Fashionable? Why are the memorable ones not repeatable in polite company?). She also acquired one of her best friends, Simon, an author and adventurer she rescued from Grazagh the Incoherent, an Abandoned Chieftain of the Deeptides clan. A few letters back home from an increasingly despondent brother convinced Bonnie that it was time for a change, and she and Simon went home, rescued poor Malcolm, and founded the adventuring (and sellsword) company named the Valiant Effort. The name was definitely her idea, and don't believe anyone claiming otherwise. She fully expected to do questionable deeds for adventure and profit as a former pirate for the rest of her days, and definitely never expected to hear from her father again. And she especially didn't expect to hear that the old, stuffy warhorse had apparently reconciled with the noble line of the family, become the house sword, died in glory, and been posthumously ennobled and had Malcolm declared heir. With her also ennobled with him. The idea was preposterous to her. But all right. She'll see this through. What's the worst that could happen?
rough. What's the worst that could happen? +
Born Amelie Steelhart, she was the younges …
Born Amelie Steelhart, she was the youngest daughter in the Ducal line, so she grew up knowing that she did not really need to be concerned with learning the ins and outs of being a Countess. She grew up training to be strong enough to successfully explore the ruins she found such wonder and excitement in. Given that she often was so focused on her training and studies, she often found herself spending most of her time alone. As a gift for her eighteenth birthday her father, Count Frederik, gifted her a ship, a crew, and a map to unpopulated island. with rumors of ruins to explore. Her arrival to the island did not live up to the expectations she had in her heart, as her ship crashed in rough seas as they arrived, stranding her and the crew that survived. With the fall of Highhill also coming, she and the crew were forgot about, only recently escaping their unintended prison when a trading vessel happened upon the island. So now she has returned to the mainland to find her family has been replaced with a new one.
r family has been replaced with a new one. +
Born Arrigo Corsetina to a poor but large …
Born Arrigo Corsetina to a poor but large family in Setarco. No one-- /no one/ --calls him Arrigo, however. His name is Ari. He considers this so much his name that when he had a daughter he named her after himself and her mother. Who was Miraya, a lovely girl who flunked out of the Setarco school for Courtesans-- she just wasn't suited to that life. She was too carefree and flighty. She met Ari when he was naught but nineteen and was just about to go on his first tour sailing with the Pravus navy. Their was a fierce, passionate romance that ended with them married within three months. By the time that Arrigo returned from his tour at twenty his daughter-- Mirari --had been born. He managed to take assignments that kept him nearby for two years. Watching his daughter grow. However, he got an offer he could not pass up and he sailed out for a longer tour. Officially, his ship was lost at sea. In truth, his ship was raided by pirates and Ari was forced into piracy. The next eighteen years were spent with him slowly gaining the trust and loyalty of the rest of the crew-- until he could finally lead a mutiny against the pirate captain. As soon as this happened he set sail for Setarco, and flying the Pravus colors came to port to find his wife long dead of a lung sickness, and his daughter "gone". His wife's family wasn't very forthright about what happened to his daughter... Gone somewhere. He agreed to join the Setarcan navy as way to sail the world looking for his daughter. Never meeting the Duchess, never quite making the connections that would allow him to see that his daughter was closer at hand that he ever realized. In recent years he was called to serve with the Setarcan navy against the Gyre. His ship and crew distinguishing themselves in a small skirmish, and after the battles were done he was called to Arx to receive an honor from the Duchess.
Arx to receive an honor from the Duchess. +
Born Costas Voducce, the young third son o …
Born Costas Voducce, the young third son of an unexceptional minor house expected only to live a life of relative obscurity tallying casks of wine and bolts of silk in one dusty counting house or another. His parents, notorious misers not much beloved by their liege or peers, spent little time on the twice-redundant son, boarding him at a series of schools only to ensure that he would not become an economic burden on the lineage. It had been three years since he had seen his family when he received word from his sister that the family was relocating their interests to a more favorable location in the Saffron Chain and that his brothers had decided he need not hasten to join them until his studies were complete. She begged him to join her so that their greedy brothers could be prevented from squandering the family fortune. All he need do was secure a ship to meet them mid-voyage along the secret route they had travelled together as youngsters on their family's ships. She had even arranged a ship.% So it was that Costas Voducce brought ruin to his house. The ship he rushed to board, eager to reclaim a place in his family, was a pirate vessel. It did not occur to him to ask why, if his sister had secured the ship, she had not also provided the destination. A helpful Costas was eager to assist. It was not until the flags of his family's company were spotted that the pirates raised their own, and he was tossed in the hold. After the battle, he was tortured for five days before they were satisfied that he had no more information that could be made into a profit. He would have been dumped overboard there, throat slit, save for that the ship's navigator pointed out that he could use a man who knew letters if they were to command a fleet of prize ships. For three years Costas swabbed decks, cooked meals, and copied endless nautical directives for ships in the pirate fleet. Never fully accepted into the crew, he was subject to routine beatings. When after one particularly rough drubbing Costas sustained a fractured arm that put him off his work for weeks, the navigator decided to begin training him in the sword so that he might defend himself. He took to it quickly, finding a talent completely unlooked-for and a sense of confidence he had never known. When three months later their ship was attacked by a rival band of pirates, Costas killed four himself. Though he was not added to the marines despite his skill, owing to his value as a navigator, he would be force to repeat the act many more times over the next four years. While it was not a life full of much happiness Costas had come to accept his place, just as it was upended one more time. On a cold and moonless night, while seeking quarry closer than ever before to the southern ports, a patrol of Malvici pirate hunters caught them in a bad wind and a fierce battle ensued. Faced for the first time with the prospect of having to fight someone that wasn't a pirate, he made the decision to try to flee in a dinghy. Magata had other plans. A storm rose up during the height of the attack and he was quickly capsized as the engaged ships battered against one another in a cacophany of splintering wood. When he next awoke, it was to the prodding spears of Malvici bannermen who found him floating among the wreckage. He would have been put to the death there, had not one of them spotted the seal of a noble house on the simple leather strip he wore around his neck. Though long since dispossessed of its lands and titles, the name of Voducce would have a final grace to extend to its last scion.
a final grace to extend to its last scion. +
Born Rias Venelana, Vena as she prefers to …
Born Rias Venelana, Vena as she prefers to go by, was born into a family of commoners working the lands of House Redrain. Coming from a strong and hearty family young Vena was very much rough and tumble like her liege lords. Having a fairly active upbringing, between being a tomboy and performing simple labor fitting for a child of low family Vena grew more and more the tough and strong girl she already was predisposed to. As she entered her adolescence Vena wanted to get out and become famous and make more silver, not an original dream for a low-born peasant girl. To her advantage however one day at Farhaven, while helping to unload goods for her parents to sell in the market, she caught the eye of Prince Sherrod Redrain who saw potential in her. After making arrangements with Vena's parents the young woman started to be trained as a pit-fighter, as the prince saw potential to make a good bit of money off the unusually strong girl. As it turned out she was both agile and quick, and also blessed with a good bit of stamina she had the raw potential to be a skilled fighter. Her speed and limberness assisting in her ability to largely avoid blows combined with favoring an unarmed fighting style which basically just boiled down to "use whatever works". Her skills and physical conditioning continued to improve over the next couple decades after she fought more and more bouts bring both her, and especially her patron, a good grip of silver. Vena turned into a ferocious and vicious fighter, cold and emotionless with only victory being the goal and willing to go all out to get it, she gained a reputation as an opponent most learned to be cautious of, and due to her uncharacteristic style and how she fought she came to be known as "Demoness" within the pit-fighter community. As she grew into her late twenties Vena had a solid reputation as a fighter, feared and respected by many, and largely on top of the world. She was doing something she enjoyed, treated well by her patron, and while she lost plenty of fights she won many as well. Things changed in her last fight, having grown arrogant and with a chip on her shoulder due to a string of victories and being in the community for so long a fight was arranged that was to bring in a lot of silver. Vena and her opponent were fairly well matched, but Vena's stamina and superior ability to dodge or deflect away blows from her opponent ultimately gave her the upper hand. Towards the end of the fight Vena was clearly in the lead, having pinned her opponent and repeatedly striking them like a madwoman, not uncommon for her in such situations. Strangely though she was more wild, none of the spectators had noticed but her opponent had the stronger will and kept trying to get back up over and over no matter how many times Vena hit them. Vena's ego was struck, she was winning, she wasn't going to lose, he was going to be knocked out even if she had to kill him. Such was her thinking before after a few minutes with the man still trying to get up from under her she snapped out of her rage and realized what she was doing. This was a fight for glory and coin, not a deathmatch. Having stopped suddenly she slowly rose and took a few steps back, as her opponent looked like he was the victim of an attack by the entire forests population of animals. He slowly started to get to his feet as Vena recoiled in shock of his will and the horror of her own actions. He took one step forward as he started to raise his fists, only to collapse as fatigue finally beat his immense will and Vena was proclaimed the winner. Vena explained what had happened when her patron asked why she behaved so odd at the end of the match, out of sympathy and her skill he offered to take her off the circuit for awhile so she could recover. Instead she asked if she had enough to buy out her contract, she had more than enough, and she did. Vena retired from pit-fighting after that. To further distance herself from that life and the shame and regret she had for herself she also swore fealty to the crown, though she did explain her reasons to her patron. He wasn't entirely pleased about it, but he could understand enough why she felt that way, also she had bought her contract so she could do as she pleased. Vena does remain on good terms with House Redrain to this day, though she moved to Arx to once again, distance herself from the life she feels shame over. Vena met a man around her own age after coming to Arx, a man that helped to soothe her soul and lighten her heart. After only a few months he asked her to live with him and she agreed. It was soon after she was pregnant with her daughter Mira. Four years later when Vena was thirty-one Vena and her lover parted ways, they simply didn't get along anymore and Vena took possession of their daughter. Now a year later Vena continues to be the best mother she can for her child, she'll still get into fights from time-to-time but nothing too serious and more often than not it is to protect someone of to blow off some steam as it were. The catch is with a growing child and the costs of living, one can only live off of collected wealth before it runs out before you have to start working again. Largely Vena is a very different person, from the last fight that haunts her to her precious daughter she'd die and kill for, and simply a relatively quieter life Vena has lost her arrogance, gained joy, and is even known to be seen dancing at times, largely dancing of her own style and often with her daughter.
her own style and often with her daughter. +
Born a Fidante 23 long years ago, this lad …
Born a Fidante 23 long years ago, this lad fell into the hands of a southern tribe of Abandoned during the Tor-Southport war when but a toddler. Sold as a slave for a few years he ended up in the service of a Witch Doctor who was steeped in the Demonic traditions. While never truly allowed to forget his place as a slave, he gained great knowledge of the enemies of the Compact, of their religions and their tactics. For some reason the Witch kept him always near but never allowed him to be taught any vocation other than that of a menial servant. When found and rescued in a raid only a year ago, the young Fidante finds himself in a world he had only really been able to imagine, or dream of based on his most distant memories. Now suddenly a noble, instead of a slave. The fated Fidante has his future to find.
The fated Fidante has his future to find. +
Born a Stonewood, Dion had adventure on th …
Born a Stonewood, Dion had adventure on the brain from a very early age. He was the oldest of his siblings, and should have had a better sense of responsibility but he was far more interested in what was over the next hill, hidden in those trees, or written in code in that book. So as soon as he was old enough he left home, and hasn't looked back since. Not because he didn't love his family, he did. But he wanted more than just staying at home, doing his duty. It was during a trip through Arx on his way somewhere, from somewhere else, that he met Annika Navegant and swept her off her feet. Together they have roamed around the east, but alone he has ventured further across Arvum, delving into whatever he could find. As age started to overtake him, he began to roam less and less, turning his attenion to collecting his own adventures in the pages of books, but also others. He'd read, write, and listen to the stories of those that can roam further than he can these days. Because of this, when his wife suggested they head to Arx he lept at the chance to return, and to take part in new adventures there.
and to take part in new adventures there. +
Born a bastard of Tiberio Pravus, the Swor …
Born a bastard of Tiberio Pravus, the Sword of Setarco and another Lady just three years prior to Lucrezia, her life was spent between the sea and Setarco. Luxury was the highlight of her young life and even at a young age was intrigued with matters of fashion and the Court. When her father was poisoned, all that changed and her mother spirited her away to foster under her wings, elsewhere. When she resurfaced a number of years later, it was to announce her courtship to Marquis Duncan Hawkmour. A political match undoubtedly, and since the Hawkmour family was vastly under-represented in Arx Lycoris moved straight away to Arx to manage the family's affairs in such a tumultuous time.
amily's affairs in such a tumultuous time. +
Born a bit more than three decades ago to …
Born a bit more than three decades ago to a smithing line that can claim generations of metal workers, Jayeth was named in honor of the god Jayus, another hand to wield the hammer of the Black family in a tradition unbroken in the memory of his ancestors. He took to the craft from a young age, fierce expectations set on shoulders that would one day be broad enough to support them. An active, boisterous youth, he often fought, played and got in trouble, though his general good nature and hard to repress smile held through even the strictest of punishments. By his twelfth year, he was already larger than most men and his physical growth would not stop any time soon, the rambunctious smith touched by his love of craft and life. He was a smith in his own right by his late teens, but hadn't opened a shop until he was in his twenties. He spent years mastering his craft, refining his abilities to their utmost even while maintaining an irrepressible nature. In the winter of 1004, after the Alaric had fallen ill, Jayeth's own luck turned, a commoner that would end up disappearing in the tumult after the Night Grove incident. Another, smaller, incident happened. Reyna happened. He discovered her injured just outside his smithy, two others corpses not far from her. He took her in and, when others came to see about her, knocked enough heads easily enough to change minds. It was a mistake, in many ways, as the person he'd rescued was pursued by a jumped up merchant with noble aspirations. Even worse, she was a bandit. Still, he forged his path as he did all things in life, a friendship growing between him and the bandit girl. Weeks of quiet lowered their defenses enough that, while out shopping, Jayeth's smithy was burned to the stone. Many men searched for them at this point and, with little help and his family at risk, they fled. It was months of skipping from town to town, laying low for awhile before they were forced out once more. It was only when they got to Arx that the pursuit stopped. There was no reason for it, no way to know why or how, but they found shelter in the Lower Boroughs and respite from their chase. With few options left, Jayeth has set about looking for work or patronage, he has the skills, he just needs the space and maybe then, they can breathe.
he space and maybe then, they can breathe. +
Born a commoner and the only child of Giov …
Born a commoner and the only child of Giovanni Artiglio, Talen's memories of that time and even that man are hazy at best. As he grew, Talen was told stories of the Captain of House Velenosa's guard, and the finest duelist in the Lycuem. The tales told of how Giovanni died saving his liege lord, the then Archduke Consort Niccolo Velenosa, after being poisoned with Kingsbane tasted in his cup. In his last moments it was his wish, spoken to the man he had saved, for Talen to be raised as a Ward of House Velenosa. Talen was never quite sure whether to feel grateful for his father for that, in truth. Being raised as a commoner child surrounded by princes and princesses was not the easiest of childhoods, and so he fell into a nebulous state of being part servant and part foster child. It tooks years of service before he was ennobled, a ward and then a Sword, a knight and then finally a prince, adopted by Niccolo himself. It wasn't long after that he married Eleyna Velenosa, whereupon a new chapter of his life began, as they ascended to the throne of the Great House and there he sat beside the Archduchess as her Consort to rule over the Hundred Cities with aims to unite Lyceum once and for all.
ith aims to unite Lyceum once and for all. +
Born a commoner, Vaela's parents were less …
Born a commoner, Vaela's parents were less than thrilled with her arrival. They hadn't planned to have a child and they made that well known during her childhood. She was raised well enough, she supposed, despite their neglect. Vaela set off on her own in her early teens. While her mother and father are still alive somewhere, she couldn't care less about them. Instead, she choose a life of small time thievery, even if it was out of necessity. She often introduces herself as an orphan, her loyalties lying only with the crown. She'd always had a rule that she'd be an honorable thief, only taking what she needed to survive, whatever it may be. She told herself that she would never steal for profit, but lately things have started to look awful tempting. She struggles with her own conscience often, swaying in either direction at times.
ten, swaying in either direction at times. +
Born a cousin of the main branch of the As …
Born a cousin of the main branch of the Ashfords and the older sister of Addison, Avary had the distinct honor of being noble by blood, at least. She was a reckless youth, as many Ashfords are known to be, flinging herself head first into any kind of adventure. She loved her home, she loved her family, and she was loved in return. Yet, at the age of 19, something changed suddenly for the young noblewoman. She shut out her family and walked away from her title and claims to join the priesthood without a word of explanation why. She was a different woman after that; she applied herself fiercly to the studies of the Faith and the questions of it, but she withdrew inward. She travelled, seeking out answers, even as she devoted herself to the Sentinel, never seeking out her Ashford family despite their closeness to Arx. She only returns now, called back by the Faith that took her in, to step into the shoes that Legate Orazio has left behind to become Archlector of the Sentinel.
hind to become Archlector of the Sentinel. +
Born a distant cousin to the ruling branch …
Born a distant cousin to the ruling branch of the Keaton family, Kastelon never considered the necessity for all the political niceties and simply focused on the good, honest work of keeping the people of Oakhaven safe. He easily took up the skills of a Huntsman, efficient with both sword and bow, trained to walk stealthily through forest and field. He was good at his work, and soon found himself in need of a challenge. So it was that he began hunting more dangerous game. Not just bandits and poachers, but the creatures found deep in the woods, the sources of rumor, of legend and myth. Mostly he finds really angry, really messed up bears. Sometimes he finds things he'd rather not speak of. After a particularly difficult mission, he has decided that he's earned himself a bit of a rest and a chance to recuperate with his family in Arx.
ance to recuperate with his family in Arx. +
Born a few minutes after her sister Neilda …
Born a few minutes after her sister Neilda, Medeia grew up in a branch of the Saik family not meant to inherit the barony. The pair were raised hearing the stories of grand adventures and courageous deeds carried out by members of both their mother's and father's families, but unlike Neilda, she did not dream of adding to those tales. A bright, inquisitive, soft child who doted on her dolls and was dazzled by elaborate gowns, the family expected Medeia would be a useful spare for making a political match. And all seemed to be going according to that plan as the girl took to her lessons with acuity. By her early teen years, she had shown natural talent for many of the skills ladies of the Lyceum are prized for, in addition to an interest in the process of turning fruit into wine. It was idyllic, until an incident while fostering in Nilanza with her uncle - Marquis Marco Argento - left her scarred, terrified, and paranoid. At just 15, she ran away, believing it was the only way to keep herself - and her family - safe. Medeia found her way to Arx, where she could hide among the throngs of people. During those few years she was away from the barony, she lived as a commoner and learned midwifery and basic medicine. When she learned about her brother Estaban's death and returned to Saikland Greens, it was to a baroness-regent who was a stranger - and who did not believe she was who she said she was. Thankfully, her parents confirmed her identity, and Lucita welcomed her back. However, a deep rift left relations with her parents strained. Even so, Medeia quietly tended her duties in the barony, attending lessons to make up for her time away and taking on the oversight of the wine and spirit making. When called to Arx, she was excited to join the peers of the Compact and experience the city in an entirely new way. That return has changed her life considerably with a surprising betrothal request, travel to far off places, and earning some powerful allies (and enemies). Now, with children of her own to protect, she finds herself on political and literal battlefields while trying to do what is best for the Compact.
trying to do what is best for the Compact. +
Born a few minutes after her sister Neilda …
Born a few minutes after her sister Neilda, Medeia grew up in a branch of the Saik family not meant to inherit the barony. The pair were raised hearing the stories of grand adventures and courageous deeds carried out by members of both their mother's and father's families, but unlike Neilda, she did not dream of adding to those tales. A bright, inquisitive, soft child who doted on her dolls and was dazzled by elaborate gowns, the family expected Medeia would be a useful spare for making a political match. And all seemed to be going according to that plan as the girl took to her lessons with acuity. By her early teen years, she had shown natural talent for many of the skills ladies of the Lyceum are prized for, as well as interest in viticulture and medicine. It was idyllic, until an incident while fostering in Nilanza with her uncle - Marquis Marco Argento - left her scarred, terrified, and paranoid. At just 15, she ran away, believing it was the only way to keep herself - and her family - safe. Medeia found her way to Arx, where she could hide among the throngs of people. During those few years she was away from the barony, she lived as a commoner and learned midwifery under Tanith Grayhope's wing. When she learned about her brother Estaban's death and returned to Saikland Greens, it was to a baroness-regent who was a stranger - and who did not believe she was who she said she was. Thankfully, her parents confirmed her identity, and Lucita welcomed her back. However, a deep rift left relations with her parents strained. Even so, Medeia quietly tended her duties in the barony, mastering lessons to make up for her time away and taking on the oversight of the house's wine and spirit making. When called to Arx by Lucita, she was excited to join the peers of the Compact and experience the city in an entirely new way. That return has changed her life considerably with the assassination of an uncle - Dominus Orazio Saik, a surprising betrothal request, travel to far off places, and earning some powerful allies (and enemies). After five years of marriage spent in a Prodigal house of the Mourning Isles during a civil war that pitted her against her own blood and beliefs, an unexpected (and quiet) divorce finds Medeia back in the Lyceum.
) divorce finds Medeia back in the Lyceum. +
Born a few years younger than her brother …
Born a few years younger than her brother Odin, Shyanne has always been quiet. It was rare if ever that someone heard her talk, she stuck to drawing when she was young. Her moods were driven by the moon and its phazes Shyanne often hid herself away when the moon was high prone to fits of funning away often for weeks at a time with little memory of where she had actually gone. As she grew she took to healing and her skills with medicine grew, as so did her maturity. With maturity she has learned how to subdue her desire to flee into the woods, but it still happens from time to time.
s, but it still happens from time to time. +
Born a lord of House Farshaw, Ciaran never …
Born a lord of House Farshaw, Ciaran never show any interest in ruling: instead, his mind was fixed on adventure. While Farshaw might not boast much in the way of a war navy, Ciaran always managed to make an impact bigger than the military resources he had available--developing a reputation as an able tactician and intrepid explorer. Be it against barbarian tribes or long-lost settlements of the Abandoned, he showed a knack for moving through the far places of the world. There, he made both friends and enemies. In the Gyre war, he showed particular gallantry. Unfortunately, it was in that conflict, at that moment of triumph, that his life took a turn. Suffering a terrible wound to one of his legs, a wound that seems to have been in some part spiritual as much as physical, Ciaran now must live with a perpetual limp, and never fully regained his martial prowess. For a time, he bounced around the far corners of the map, and perhaps some places beyond its borders. Whatever obscure place he got off to, he has at last settled in Arx, where he intends to represent his family and support the ruling lords.
t his family and support the ruling lords. +
Born a minor Lord of House Pravus, Dimitri …
Born a minor Lord of House Pravus, Dimitri's life was never pre-destined to be anything but what he wanted to be. Far removed from any chance of ruling his House, the young Lord was afforded the opportunity to grow and prosper as he saw fit. Of course, this didn't stop various members of his family from trying to guide him in one direction or another, but ultimately, he would find his own path in life. And what a life it was. At a young age, it was easy to see that Dimitri would never be skilled in any form of the martial arts. Sure, he received some training in how to use a blade, but he's as equally likely to hit a friend as he is a foe. Coupled with his just plain .. disdain for learning such things, he found himself avoiding any such teachings. Instead, his love seemed to come from socializing. From spending time with people from all walks of life. From brash to kind to stoic, the young lord never seemed to have an issue with trying to make a new friend. But one can not spend all their time merely lounging around, no matter how much they may wish to do so and with Dimitri's apparent natural skill at talking with others, he found himself inadvertantly settling disputes amongst his friends. Playing the role of mediator and calming tempers was something that came naturally, it would seem, and as the years progressed, so did this ability. It wasn't long until he found himself being called upon by others to aid in matters of diplomacy and with his love of talking and socializing, it seemed as if he had found a calling, at least one that he could stand to do. It was during an event in Lenosia that his life really took a twist, in so much as he stumbled upon a Velenosian Princess, Cerys, who drew his eye almost immediately. Although the pair couldn't have been more different, where she was a skilled warrior and he was a minor diplomat, an easy friendship was struck. With House Pravus preparing for elevation to the status of Great House, it was the perfect opportunity to see one of their Lords married into House Velenosia, to try and strengthen a bond that would no doubt be strained as vassal became an equal. A whirlwind courtship was arranged and blessed and afterwards, the pair were married. Now, with the honeymoon phase having come to an end, the pair have made the choice to start their new life together in Arx.
e to start their new life together in Arx. +
Born a thrall under house Redreef, the sal …
Born a thrall under house Redreef, the salt twin of Mikani, Khari was given to one of the distant nobles of the house after her parents were killed. She worked all manner of jobs in the house, learning many good lessons for one who works in service to others. Most importantly she learned to keep quiet and not give anyone anything they could use against her. At the age of 21 she was smuggled out Redreef Shores and taken to the Saffron Chain. Eventually she found her way to Ischia, and found employment in the house of the Marquis, where she has served loyally since. Now she has come to Arx to help the family get everything in order.
o help the family get everything in order. +
Born a thrall, she comes from a thrall fam …
Born a thrall, she comes from a thrall family, who years and years ago was a minor noble house that had fallen and was taken and claimed by Thrax. The women of the Wojciech family made a long line of wise women, local healers, and keepers of hearth wisdom; knowledge and teachings that were passed down from mother to daughter, and so forth. A practice that was shared among the women folk. While Viveka did not go to any fancy academies, her grandmother's and mother's teachings, and her history and experience as a healer has served her well, and she is well renowned from the Isles she is from for being an exceptionally talented healer. She has always been a devoted follower of Lagoma, who like her foremothers before her, holds a very special place in her heart. Her husband Stevik was a ship captain for one of the various ships within the Thrax armada, and her oldest son, Marinus, was his First mate, and her other son, Rolf, served on the same ship as his brother and father. All of them died during the battle against the Gyre, leaving Viveka bereft from the loss of her husband, and her children. The grief of it still clings tightly to the woman. With no family left, and deeply grieving from her loss, she has left Maelstrom, needing to not be near that which is familiar. As such, she's moved to Arx, to throw herself into healing and assisting others, perhaps as a way to help her deal with her own grief; needing to keep herself busy. She seeks to assist Thrax, as well as Arx in the coming days, to help heal and bolster those in need. To kindle a new hearth, and share her knowledge that she learn from her foremothers, with other like minded people. And just maybe, to start again.
ed people. And just maybe, to start again. +
Born abroad to Carabelle Artiglio, sister …
Born abroad to Carabelle Artiglio, sister to Giovanni and Blacktongue, Lore didn't reach Arx until she was in her fifth year. Her mother brought her home to the family without a mention as to why, refusing to speak on the matter, ever. It lead Lore to being raised in the Lyceum ward, growing up alongside her cousins, and indeed, being sad when Talen was sent to 'the Big House' to live after Giovanni's death. Still, she found herself with plenty of playmates, growing from childhood to adulthood, travelling here and there with Velenosan merchant ships. She discovered a penchant for drawing, and a love of cartography, learning quickly to chart the lands and seas where she traveled. Lore even gained a bit of a reputation for knowing the best people to deal with, how to get where they wanted to go (quickest routes don't always mean safest, though!). A few years back, she sent a messenger to her family saying that she'd found a ship bound for Eurus and that she planned to sail with them, come Abyss or high water! And then nothing, for years. Not until a ship sailed into port bearing a young woman claiming to be Lore Artiglio!
young woman claiming to be Lore Artiglio! +
Born across a salty shore of Thraxian doma …
Born across a salty shore of Thraxian domain, for the longest of whiles; for the lengthiest passings of time as child, Elfriede only knew salt. And blood. She was peddled around as child like useful product when her known-parents were slaughtered beneath a raid after having survived many from a ship of black and crimson colors on a serpentine stretch for sigil. Too young to serve as an adult, yet too old to be flung into the sea as burden, she was raised in a kitchenette jury rigged together beneath the quarterdeck of a Thraxian boat. Made to wash, clean and rinse the dirt of sailors since she has known memory, with callouses to speak of it, when time begun to develop her the few remaining women in the ever-dwindling kitchen of the declining pirate coordination smuggled her back inland; back into the several holdfasts that stand at the feet of the Maelstrom. Life in the Mourning Islands was hard. She no longer cleaned for anything other than herself, but food; but production and want for a thrall of so-few skills then made her a target - it made her a victim - and victimization became her life in such teen years while living in a society where the hope of end's meet came at the expense and compromise of her values. What few she had left. Inevitably, violence returned to her life. And it did so in storm- she worked the streets as thief and eyes alike; she shared her perceptiveness with those that'd dare purchase it. Experience taught her the networked ecosystem of 'knowing' - and through this knowing she thrived as young as she was. In this life of humble burglary, she finally came upon a man; an old, hardy Knight born in the Oathlands. Happenings led them to strike an odd friendship, for none would dare claim they fit. He called her squire. They travelled long, and left the lands of Thrax together to reach the capital under the care of this knightly old thing. Age took him from her not too short after arrival beneath the wary trip, and Elfriede now finds herself roaming the streets in search of purpose, like one too many.
s in search of purpose, like one too many. +
Born along with his twin, Bree, Brannen Ha …
Born along with his twin, Bree, Brannen Harthall had his life set out since he was born. He never questioned the life put out for him. Never for a moment. Early in his years it was decided when Brannen was of age he would lead the forces of Harthall. He would train in the martial arts and become a respected commander. And he sure did. Brannen is very much an Oathlander. Conservative, stern, driven, bound by honor, and a tad humorless. Ever since he was a boy Brannen understood the importance of his duty and what he would need to take on over the years. While Bree took to fighting, Brannen took to command. He was still an excellent warrior, but it did not take long for him to earn the respect of the Harthall soldiers. Bree often would complain to him how she wanted to be out on the road, serving Gild, being a Knight of Solace. Brannen kept them grounded. To duty. But one day, tragedy struck. The heir to their house was killed in a horse race while both Bree and Brannen were present. Brannen informed the Harthalls that Odhran mismanaged his saddle and as a result died of it. Brannen Harthall in a moment of misery over his fallen cousin left with Bree Harthall. The twins became Godsworn and dedicated themselves to the Knights of Solace. Brannen has arranged himself in the Knights of Solace, aiming to be a martial force as well as a keen commander of the Knights.
s well as a keen commander of the Knights. +
Born amidst the beautific rose-gold arches …
Born amidst the beautific rose-gold arches and stone masonry of Stonedeep, Egil was orphaned, or, perhaps, abandoned -- he was never really sure -- to a life of filth, squalor, and blood. Wading clear of it didn't come easy, especially as an orphan, and were it not for the conjunction of his scrappy cunning, wanton savagery, and the favoring of fortune, he may well have never acceded to adulthood. It was in his teens that he first found his calling, earning coin by acting as servant to mercenaries, bands of men dedicated to wiping out troublesome villages of Shav'Arvani. The heat of combat soon propelled him from a mere servant to a fighter in his own right, and he earned his keep in adulthood by hunting and claiming bounties. While tracking a particularly problematic group of blood-drinking Shav'Arvani, he encountered Duchess Nadia Nightgold. After a dispute with the Duchess regarding his rights to claim the bounty he'd been hunting, they came to terms, and he aided her in tracking down the remnants of the tribe. Offering him handsome pay, she invited him to travel to Arx and enter her service.
im to travel to Arx and enter her service. +
Born an Ulbran on the streets of the Lower …
Born an Ulbran on the streets of the Lowers, Ferris soon proved that he was never going to be a pickpocket or a sneak thief, and temperamentally he just wasn't suited to the criminal life - so his mother found him an apprenticeship with a smith, and he found himself enjoying it. After mostly churning out nails for the dockyards for a few years, he decided to take to the road and learn more; nails became horseshoes, arrow heads and tools, and Ferris wandered the breadth of Arvum as a travelling smith. After the first few crude bits of plate armour left his anvil he realised that that was what he most enjoyed making, and sought further training; after spending time with the armies of various Highlords, and more importantly with their smiths, he found himself supplying the soldiers retaking Bastion. In the wake of that conflict - and with a good purse of money in his favour - he's returned to Arx to rejoin the family and set up shop as a professional armoursmith. After all, everyone knows how much money you can make in Arx if you're good enough, and Ferris is entirely confident that he's good enough.
entirely confident that he's good enough. +
Born and bred on the docks of Arx, Skriggs …
Born and bred on the docks of Arx, Skriggs often had to contend with the other children for consideration in games around the alley or, if the older children were on the prowl, quick enough to avoid their whallopings. This life suited a young Skriggs, who was often left to his own devices with his mother off tending to the sick in the hospitals and his father sailing to sea on whatever merchant ship would take him. The young commoner grew to love his home city for the many wonders it held just outside of his reach, like the many prim and proper towers and manses the nobles lived in. The only escape Skriggs found from his much smaller existence in the few blocks he called home was in his time in the Shrines of the Faithful. The grandeur of the sites put the boy into an awe each visit and fostered a muted respect for the priestly order in the boy. While any were free to join their numbers and this meant the odd nobility within the ranks, the Godsworn were a faith that sheltered and taught all who came to them. While the choirs and sermons brought breaks from a chaotic childhood of no supervision, Skriggs found that as he grew into a young man that their welcoming arms may not just hold peace for him but also a warm meal and the only offer of a roof over his head. With a particularly serious illness having spread through his neighborhood, Skriggs finally lost his mother. When his father learned the news on his return to port, Skriggs was not surprised to find he had left with another merchant the next day, and even less surprised to have never seen him again. Taken in by the Faithful, Skriggs took to learning his numbers and his letters, rounding out common education from the streets with much more theological ideals. Since taking his oath and swearing his fealty to the Pantheon over any House or family, Brother Skriggs has taken to brewmastery and in the pursuit of a good mead has become something of a adept bee-keeper amongst the Godsworn of Arx.
pt bee-keeper amongst the Godsworn of Arx. +
Born and raised a Northern girl, Salena ha …
Born and raised a Northern girl, Salena has made a reputation for herself in the travels from her homelands and into Arx's bustling streets as being a solitary warrior and beast trainer. With knightly arms and the company of a Shaman of her home, she spent months spreading good fortune along the countryside and in various villages on her way to the capitol. While her manners were always found to be lacking, the young knight has made a name for herself as being dedicated and efficient in her promises, often attempting to solve conflict without bloodshed, even if it meant beating someone with a sheathed sword. During her short time in the confines of Arx, Salena has kept to her former company of wild animals and a lone Shaman she has guarded in their travels from the North, keen to hitch her own name and fortune to the religious fanatic's sharp wit and captivating vision quest.
's sharp wit and captivating vision quest. +
Born and raised in Arx, Kalivan never had …
Born and raised in Arx, Kalivan never had the opportunity to meet his parents, his mother taking ill shortly after his birth, and the identity of his father unknown. Thankfully, he had his maternal grandfather Jerem Greene to take him in. For as long as anyone's bothered to remember, the Greene family have been apothecaries, physicians and healers sworn to House Thrax, respected for their quiet professionalism and discretion. Little Kalivan was more than happy to follow in the family trade, and the first sixteen years of his life was spent as his grandfather's apprentice, learning much under his excellent tutelage. Just shortly after his seventeenth birthday, though, the home/laboratory they shared was destroyed in a fire none could determine the cause of, but thankfully nobody was harmed in the blaze. Already in advanced years by the time he'd adopted Kalivan, he took the loss of his laboratory as an opportunity to retire to more gentler climes in the south. Kalivan, for his part, took this as his opportunity to see the world and learn, and set off to the north to try and glean something of their shamanic traditions. It's unclear whether or not that really panned out for him, but he did greatly expand his knowledge of herbs and plants while among the dark primordial forests. After about three years and a modest peasant fortune spent on his voyage, he returned home to Arx.
nt on his voyage, he returned home to Arx. +
Born and raised in Brassfall to a successf …
Born and raised in Brassfall to a successful mercantile family, she grew up learning the family trade. As a single child, it was devastation when at the age of 13 her parents were washed away in an accident that would have left her a penniless orphan til she came of age. That is, if she hadn't been something of a smooth-talking economically minded prodigy. Friends in high places petitioned for her emancipation and the inheritance of her family's business. It was a bit of a risk on their behalf, but it paid many dividends in the long run. Eventually, by the time she was out of her teens, she was even more successful than her family before her. By the time she was twenty-three she had chosen a husband that was equally as keen with his business sense and combined forces to produce one of the more successful mercantile companies the Lyceum has seen to date: the Mairelli Mercantile Company. By the time she was thirty, her husband was dead after he was a little overcome with greed and overreached a deal. He was barely recognizable in the state he was found in. Again alone, she carried on. Most recently, she's become good business partners with the new Marquessa-Consort, Lycoris Hawkmour. After several successful business transactions the two became penpals until Lycoris became convinced that she needed Kamaria in Arx to help her manage her House's affairs.
rx to help her manage her House's affairs. +
Born and raised in Farhaven as the oldest …
Born and raised in Farhaven as the oldest of three girls, Symanthe endured a bit of a rocky childhood with a stubborn sort of passion to systematically attach herself to a future she preferred. For her, she found joy and steadiness in the mathematical creativity of baking; people, after all, will always need bread. A visit by a contingent from House Valardin was what first brought a 20-year-old Hardwicke Morgan into her life, and she swiftly identified the gruff, awkward young man as another aspect of her preferred future. 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. +
Born and raised in Oakhaven, Amari is the …
Born and raised in Oakhaven, Amari is the only daughter of Lady Sallah and Lord Morden Keaton, one of the preeminent legal minds of the Oathlands. She was a sharp and exceptionally smart girl, and well suited, in Morden's opinion, to follow in his footsteps. He was certain that where her brothers had already failed him, she wouldn't. She was his last, best hope of another lawyer of his caliber in the family and she was lavished with attention and flattered accordingly. Unfortunately, with the attention came the smothering weight of his expectations and the strictness of his tutelage. They took their toll. While a warm and affable girl by nature, her stress would bubble over and pour out as intensely angry and often tearful outbursts. Needless to say, she had a somewhat lonely childhood as a result. Most of her days, in fact, were spent shut away in the library studying. There her only relief from the tedium and loneliness was found in vivid daydreams of the many elaborate and wonderful futures she would someday enjoy. Then a day before her seventeenth birthday she simply vanished without a word. Despite the Huntsmen searching near and far, and for months afterwards, not a trace of her was found. So when she unexpectedly returned two years later, it wasn't strictly to fanfare. After the initial relief, dismay and suspicion set in. Where she had been, and who she had been with she wouldn't divulge. Infuriated by her stubborn refusal to reveal in detail what had happened, and outraged by what little she did admit, her father decided and she strongly agreed, that she should join her cousins in Arx. She's resided in the city ever since. With exposure to new people and new ideas, her interests have grown far beyond the practice of law alone to include an eclectic variety of pursuits. Her once mercurial manner and stormy moods too, have improved with maturity and the broadening of her horizons. She's taken on various roles of importance and responsibility, and pursued a knighthood but the lingering sense of mystery about her still hasn't dimished. What is clear, is that the tempestuous girl who disappeared, returned a lady keen to see her dreams come true, by wit, charm or pointy end of the sword.
by wit, charm or pointy end of the sword. +
Born and raised in a small Shav'arvani tow …
Born and raised in a small Shav'arvani town controlled by the Totorcini, Caera was raised by her father who was a farmer of an orchard of trees. At a young age, she went to live with her aunt who taught her herbalist ways and the way of poisons, should the family ever be threatened. As she grew older, she went to apprentice with a local apothicary, leaning to make items to heal as well. As he retired, she took up moving to the city, honing her skills with a group of thieves. They showed her the ropes in trade for her helping with healing or...poison, as need would have it. Now she has spent the last year learning how to attend to ladies of stature and is applying to attend to Celeste
ature and is applying to attend to Celeste +
Born and raised in the city of Southport, …
Born and raised in the city of Southport, Alfio was the middle child of three siblings. His mother passed away after giving birth to his youngest brother, and his father was pretty much absent --spending most of what he earned on drinks. Practically an orphan, just like his siblings, he did whatever he could to survive.
ings, he did whatever he could to survive. +
Born and raised in the distant north, some …
Born and raised in the distant north, somewhere in that blasted desert of ice, Shiara grew up. Her life wasn't an easy one compared to her southern counterparts but the Abandoned House, Aldmeris, was one of the principal ones in it's region. Which afforded her luxury and comfort of a sorts, their holding a large one that was a very well known hub of business among the Abandoned. Like most of her family the history of the Compact and their culture were part of her studies, one must always know the enemy as they say. This was when she first began to fall in love Arx and the idea of someday traveling there grew on her until it became a nagging urge. Many of which she acted on compulsively in the past, this was no different. Without seeking permission from her father and mother she stole away from the city under the guise of a performer, conveniently timed with a troupe coming to Aldmer Castle in hopes of winning the favor of such illustrious and well connected people. Thankfully, she wasn't sold out by her companions who quickly realized how much danger they were in for helping her escape, as it were. After traveling with them for several months the scion of Aldmeris started southward. The journey was grueling and she doesn't talk about the things she had to do to get where she is today but it wasn't very long after her arrival to the city of Arx that her family contacted her and informed her of their displeasure but because she is beloved and spoiled, she was named their official Ambassador and told to help make new alliances, trade and military pacts with any of the Southern Houses of the Compact. Which she continues to work towards, quite successfully, to this day. Even though this ultimately means that she is trying to bring her family into the fold of the Compact during a time in which it is spoken against so adamantly.
n which it is spoken against so adamantly. +
Born and raised on the fringes of civilize …
Born and raised on the fringes of civilized lands, Rohyn has run wild through the woods since as long as she can recall. A doting father and a loving mother raised their only child with bow in hand and wind at her back. Rohyn's parents gifted her with a strong sense of direction, an earthy, deep-rooted sense of right and wrong, and the pride and confidence to fend for herself - no matter the circumstance. This last proved invaluable, as in time Rohyn's father suffered a hunting injury and died shortly after. Her mother fell into a languid depression afterward, and when she too passed away, Rohyn took her trusty bow and set off to find a new home far away from the lone cabin and all of its memories where she had lived all her life.
memories where she had lived all her life. +
Born and raised on the streets of Southpor …
Born and raised on the streets of Southport, Andreas was the eldest of three siblings. His mother passed away with the birth of his youngest brother Alexio, leaving his father to raise him and his siblings. Work on the docks of Southport hardly paid well, and the silver that it did pay didn't go far when the first thing on his father's priority list was booze, and not his children. Andreas and his siblings pretty much raised themselves, for better or worse. With no authority figure at home, it is little surprise that the three children ended up on the streets. Andreas, personally, developed a certain knack for the discreet transport and exchange of goods through witty and stealthy means. As he got more skilled in the fishy business, and what he transported became more valuable, he turned into carrying rather than simply for survival. What began as a means for sustenance, soon turned into a means of helping himself and his siblings attain the things that had evaded them for so much of their lives. The lad was around his mid-twenties when he managed to procure a ship of his own somewhere in the Lyceum. The nature of the vessel's acquisition remains a mystery to many; but, one thing is for sure, Andreas' face was nowhere to be found for some time in the south. Some say it was mere coincidence, while others insist it was not; but, not long after he left, rumors of a merchant having been swindled off his boat would have been running around the many markets of the hundred cities. Of course, there was no way to prove Andreas was the culprit. Not when the affected merchant had been allegedly drinking his fill on the night of the unfortunate event, and both Alexio and his other sibling were convincingly playing as the eldest Donatti's alibi. He spent his days supposedly transporting goods and people, legally, from one place to the other as a common carrier for various parties. It is said it was through these means that he made his small fortune - although, some dare argue the small fortune might be a bit bigger than it should. Nonetheless, now that his youngest sibling has successfully established his Import & Exports business in the shining city of Arx, Andreas has been said to have docked his ship in the Capital's port. Word on the street says he has been hired by Alexio as a private carrier of goods.
d by Alexio as a private carrier of goods. +
Born and raised on the streets of Southpor …
Born and raised on the streets of Southport, Alexio was the youngest of three siblings. His mother passed with his birth, leaving his father to raise him and his siblings. Work on the docks of Southport hardly paid well, and the silver that it did pay didn't go far when the first thing on his father's priority list was booze, and not his children. Alexio and his siblings pretty much raised themselves, for better or worse. With no authority figure at home, it is little surprise that the three children ended up on the streets. Alexio himself developed a certain knack for the acquisition of things he did not have through particularly sticky fingers. As he got more skilled with his thievery, and what he sold became more valuable, he turned to selling the things that he nicked, rather than simply for survival. What started as a means of survival, soon turned into a means of helping himself and his siblings attain the things that had evaded them for so much of their lives. As he came of age, he learned to use the skills that he had learned on the streets in matters of more legitimate trade, and soon discovered that he had a knack as a businessman. As such, he has made the journey to Arx where he hopes to expand upon his business opportunities and see what he can make of himself.
ities and see what he can make of himself. +
Born and reared in the Lower Boroughs of A …
Born and reared in the Lower Boroughs of Arx, Meranthe was raised at the Murder of Crows, just another Grayhope brat in and around the tavern. While she adored her family and felt most comfortable when surrounded by them, she also felt a deep longing to see the world beyond the Lowers and the walls of Arx. When she reached adulthood, Meranthe struck out on her own, taking up a position with a trading caravan. In this capacity, she saw the length and breadth of the Compact, from the Mourning Isles to the mountains of the North to the Hundred Cities of the Lyceum. Having worked as a guard and a sutler, she collected her fair share of stories and scars. Eventually, with her earnings, she became a merchant in her own right and over time began leading caravans of her own. There are few who know the roads and the wilds of the Compact like she does and she is very well paid for her extensive knowledge. Skilled with people as well as money, Meranthe been blessed by Gild with success in her ventures and found her own sort of happiness. But nothing lasts forever and the call of home was too loud to ignore, particularly after learning of the fall of Bastion and the complete destruction of Artshall. She was traveling the Great Road back to Arx when news reached her of the disappearance of the Grayhope family head, leaving a void with few with the right temperament to fill. So, she steps back into Arx, older and wiser and with a determination to protect her family from the threats of the world and, hopefully, see them prosper as well.
and, hopefully, see them prosper as well. +
Born around harvest time, Willow is the yo …
Born around harvest time, Willow is the youngest child in her immediate family, and the only girl among them. Between three extremely protective older brothers and her tendency to distance herself from others, she has never had a great deal of friends. Or, not human friends at the least. She got tattooed with a bloody crescent moon around her coming of age, the ink well hid beneath her clothes and serving more than anything as a symbol of dedication to the spirits and her ancestors. She was taughr by an older aunt to walk a Shaman's path, though she tends to trade in paintings.
h, though she tends to trade in paintings. +
Born as a thrall to his thrall father and …
Born as a thrall to his thrall father and mother, may she rest in peace. He grew up having to work hard for his meals and anything supplied to him by those of county of Stormchaser. His father fought long and hard to buy their family name out of poverty though sadly before their father could get everything he passed on from illness. This only drove his determination even more and he bought his freedom. And thanks to his vigorous training as a sellsword he set out and proved himself to and include the Champions guild. Now he has set out to Arx to find a certain tailor he grew up with having heard rumor they were here. And wishes to set a name for himself in the Champion circuit.
name for himself in the Champion circuit. +
Born as a thrall, Xander grew up without k …
Born as a thrall, Xander grew up without knowing much of his family as they were split up when he was fairly young. He started out as a Scholar's assistant in Grihem's Point to Duke Eugine Grimhall and thus, had a fairly typical traditional experience. Which means most of the time, it wasn't entirely a pleasant life. When thralldom began to crumble, however, his future became more and more uncertain until he found himself adrift in a new life. Traveling to Arx, he has embarked on his new journey and seeks proper employment with House Grimhall there as the winds of change continue to blow.
e as the winds of change continue to blow. +
Born as the fourth of five children and se …
Born as the fourth of five children and second daughter of armorsmith Carraghean Ironclad and her mother Alessa Folan who was a tailor. She never behaved as a normal girl even at a young age. She always wanted to work with her father and brothers on the anvils of their shop but her mother tried to teach her to behave as a woman should. She always kept to herself and found joy in the sound of iron smashing against a plate of metal whatever it was. She had learned the most basic forms of forging metals at the age of 13 and found herself already at 17 able to work a piece of metal perfectly within minutes into a sturdy piece of a great armor which she can forge in a mere two days provided with the right equipment. She had learned it all from her father while the education from her mother, unfortunately, didnt bear the same fruit. She never really had many friends except for her siblings and their two pet dogs. When her father died of mysterious causes while delivering a very expensive armor to a noble she started investigating his death only to be drawn into something far too dark and dangerous. She fled her home leaving behind her family and went to the capital where she was greeted by harsh reality. Now almost a year later she owns a small shop working again on metals and providing people with tools, weapons and armor as they order from her.
weapons and armor as they order from her. +
Born as the second son, with three more si …
Born as the second son, with three more siblings to follow, no one within the Saik family anticipated that summer plague that ripped through the deep south of the Lyceum and left many and more dead. Including Orazio's parents, and the twins, who were just too young and died as infants. With his eldest brother now the distraught heir, and his surviving younger brother studying within Arx, Orazio had a decision to make. The details are murky, but shortly after his family tragedy, Orazio appeared within Southport where he quickly joined the ranks of the military. Little of this time can be said, except that he served dutifully and with all the expected valour of any Southport citizen. As Orazio matured, he insinuated himself within influential circles. With a sharp, politically adroit mind, it came as a surprise to those who knew him when Orazio swore vows to become a priest of Sentinel. While serving with an even handed, tempered zeal, the political realm remained one in which Orazio 'occasionally dabbled.' Then there came the Tor-Southport debacle. Orazio, then Seraph of Southport, was disgusted by Lucien, but remained within the city of Southport for the war's duration. Shortly afterwards, he received the call to come to Arx, though he continued to maintain ties with the Malvicis, although such ties have become increasingly strained. After a period of several years spent as the Archlector of the Sentinel, Orazio was offered the position of Legate of Concepts, shortly before the Silent War. When Dominus Fawkuhl was accused of murdering the Archduchess of the Lyceum, Esera, Orazio worked with then-Archscholar Aldwin to call a rare Convocation of the Faith. The Convocation led to the stepping down of Dominus Fawkuhl, and the appointment of Aldwin as Dominus. Since then, Orazio has made a deeply controversial choice to revise the Fourth Law of Limerance to remove the prohibitions against non-Abyssal magic, if any such thing existed, and made several high-profile condemnations against various peers, while working to keep the more conservative and more liberal factions of the Church pointed in vaguely the same direction.
rch pointed in vaguely the same direction. +
Born as the third son to the Redtyde March …
Born as the third son to the Redtyde March, Fredrik was in no place to inherit any lands or real sense of political power, but he was blessed with a rather keen sense of observation and an attention to detail. And so he was often given the House's paperwork and left to tend to their businesses from as early an age as 16, a task he relished and embraced. And in time, he even married, a minor lady from a barony under Tyde, and they had two children, Garon and Alrik. Unfortunately, all of that was lost when the Tydes rose up in rebellion, washed away with the coming of thraxian banners. The Redtydes refused to abandon their liege lords, and were among the first houses wiped away in the Thraxian march to the Tydes. Fredrik managed to escape, but his wife and children, visiting the Tyde House at the time, were killed along with the rest once it was broken open and laid waste. Fleeing into hiding, Fredrik carried with him a bastard child of Tyde, along with a commoner child, and set to work disguising himself, posing as a merchant and eventually securing his own boat. He did all he could, never abandoning the Tyde cause and raising the children as his own. But many years have passed, and Tyde is reborn! After much caution and deliberation, Fredrik has come forth to meet with Margot, who he has been in contact with for many months, hoping to taie his place under the protection of House Tyde, and give his adopted children the home they deserve. And to serve. Always to serve.
ey deserve. And to serve. Always to serve. +
Born as the twin sister to Marina Redleaf, …
Born as the twin sister to Marina Redleaf, Ember Redreef endured the prejudice that left her and her sister treated like property by her father. She fought long and hard against the cage she was forced into, both in the social and martial worlds, spending a great deal of time outside the Mourning Isles learning the sword before finally returning after Thrax changed the law to allow women to hold lands and titles. Despite her small stature, Ember quickly grew a reputation as a frightening woman to spar against, having gravely wounded men who underestimated her without even a hint of remorse. Eventually, she and her sister found themselves as sailors on a ship, where they got their taste for adventure, working as an unparalleled team.
dventure, working as an unparalleled team. +
Born as the youngest of three brothers, Cy …
Born as the youngest of three brothers, Cyril grew up in the seat of House Melaeris. He was not content to stay there, having a deep love for the sea and sailing. Many of his early teenage years were spent learning the ins and outs of various types of ships or tagging along on raiding parties. The fighting itself was never a draw but the journey was. That changed, when he reached his early twenties. An accident during a storm left Cyril crippled, with family worried that the Lord might die. While confined to bed, Cyril's mother fretted and fussed over him--she wasn't a Thrax. She didn't buy Tears in our Wake not at Our Wake. So each day she would come to him and leave books, tell him of courtly gossip, and of politics. She'd been a lawyer, a Lycene woman and a Mirrormask. As a child, she'd taught him to question everything--to think before acting. And though at first he resisted, seeing the law and economics as woman's work, she taught Cyril to adore the social arena. His father and brothers quietly disapproved. More traditionalist Thrax openly gossiped. Cyril ignored them, carrying on to become both a lawyer and later a member of various trading organizations. His love for the ocean never quite abated but the Lord has stead-fastly refused to board a ship except in cases of dire need. It was a bit of a shock in fact, when he arrived to Arx in order to support his niece.
ived to Arx in order to support his niece. +
Born as third child to a branch family of …
Born as third child to a branch family of the honorable and historic Oathlands House of Telmar, Lord Etienne Telmar was very well aware that no matter how clever or competent he was (and from an early age, he possessed a great measure of both these qualities), his most likely outcome would be as trusted adviser or Minister for his more prestigious relatives. It was not enough, and so the young Telmar convinced his parents to support his induction into the Faith at the quite young age of eighteen. There, he discovered that his intelligence and familiarity with the movement of money gave him a gift for uncovering when the Faith's funds had been embezzled, stolen, or otherwise misappropriated. After a few years of instruction and training, he found himself often assigned to suspicious parishes across the Valardin lands, where he would plot out the flow of funds and discover any misuse of them. In the process, this ended up restoring a significant amount of charitable funds to their rightful recipients. This made Etienne quite popular in some quarters (particularly those priests who valued the charitable works of the Faith, and the recipients thereof), which he parlayed into increasing roles of responsibility. But not a Seraph's position, as that would have chained him to a single parish, rather than allowing him to expand his knowledge of how the Faith was run. At least, until the Seraph of the Telmarch was discovered to be in conspiracy with the White Stewards, a secret cult which had a major part in starting the Silent War. This, and the accusations of collusion with the traitor Telmar in command of Arx's Iron Guard, could have drowned Etienne's career in suspicion and shared guilt. Instead, the priest thrived through his clear outrage and immediate request to help the Faith purge itself of other Steward collaborators. In the aftermath, he was appointed Seraph of the Telmarch, and it was thought that he would serve in that post for years before seeking another promotion. However, after the resignation of Archlector Caras, Etienne quietly called in a number of political markers in the Faith to make it clear that not only was he interested in the post of Archlector of Gild, but that he was clearly the best candidate for the job. No one is quite sure if this is simply an ambitious priest taking advantage of a shift in leadership of the Faith, or if he has a personal goal which requires him being in the heart of the Faith.
uires him being in the heart of the Faith. +
Born at a young age, Nedios grew up on the streets. He's smaller than others so his way of survival was trading information. Be it cheating at games, blackmailing a noble, or just to embarrass someone, Nedios likes collecting and using secrets of others. +
Born between Oddmun and Braith, Ora's life …
Born between Oddmun and Braith, Ora's life was pretty laid out for her. She grew up as a lady of the Compact, knowing that one day she'd be married to someone that could benefit her House and her family. She embraced this sense of duty, and found joy in the arts-- things which she could never be left without, no matter which corner of the Compact she found herself in. The charming young woman never could have predicted the Silent War, however, and how it would change her life. Brand swept down, and a prodigal tribe to the North bent the knee to Sanna. She was married to the Chieftain's brother, Timur, as a way to cement the alliance, and Lady Ora Sanna became Lady Ora Stahlben. She liked Timur, for what little she knew him. He was a warrior, and spent most of the next three years fighting against Brand and his Bringers of Silence. Near the end of the war, Timur disappeared. No trace of the man could be found, not even a body. Though her husband was presumed dead, Ora decided to stay with her new family and continue to be a link between the two Houses.
tinue to be a link between the two Houses. +
Born between his siblings Reiker and Sorre …
Born between his siblings Reiker and Sorrel, Alexandre proved to be difficult to predict as to what kind of a man he would become. Displaying admirable intellect from a young age, medicine proved to be an early passion for the young Wyrmguard. It would not be altogether uncommon to find him in the company of Mercies, with questions aplenty about something he'd read, or about their current work. Such curiosity in the youth was encouraged, and might have led him down the path of becoming a Mercy himself, had it not been for a fateful day. Fateful, for on that day the young Alexandre witnessed an injustice. He was still young, and had not yet learned the harsher truths of the world, when he beheld such. An older boy, more man than child in physique, the reverse in spirit, bullying a younger and far smaller girl. Alexandre didn't ask what it was about, and certainly didn't ignore it. Instead, he threw himself at the boy, intent on fighting the boy off. Predictably, it didn't go well. Alexandre had yet to receive any martial training, and the boy had the advantage of size, strength and experience. Still, Alexandre never yielded once throughout his trashing, getting back up every time he was slammed down. It might have continued, and might have caused permanent harm, had someone not saved him. Dame Anna Redwood, Godsworn Knight of Solace, quickly broke up the fight, and once Alexandre had said who he was, escorted him back to his family. On the way there, she faced the usual deluge of questions the child usually kept for Mercies, about who she was, what she did, and interrogations about the Knights of Solace that his education had not yet covered. Her answers found a receptive mind, and by the time they reached his parents, he had asked her to teach him, and made the same request to his parents when they arrived, a tad worried to see their son in such a state. Dame Anna could not stay, of course, but she made a promise. She would return when she could and, if Alexandre's parents allowed it and he was still interested, would teach the young Lord and, when he was older, would take him on as a squire. Children being what they are, perhaps those involved expected Alexandre to discard this momentary distraction with time and return upon what truly interested him. Yet the opposite occured. He was still interested in medicine, devoted much of his time to it still in fact, but it was now equalled to more martial pursuits. Even as his understanding of the healing arts grew, so did his understanding of riding, the sword, and matters of war and leadership. His education was completed by Dame Anna's visits, when, as promised, she would further not only his understanding, but the virtues of the Pantheon, nurturing the compassion and kindness she saw in him, as well as the protective nature that had made her notice him. Time passed, and eventually, the time came for the second part of Dame Anna's promise to be fulfilled. Alexandre left his family and Blancbier at the age of fourteen, to serve as the Dame's squire. From her, he learned not only the duties and demands of knighthood, but also the dangers that awaited the those traveling upon the Compact's roads and paths, dangers the Knights of Solace were sworn to guard against. It was a harsher life than the one he had lived thus far, yet Alexandre only seemed to thrive, the fire within him brightening. It was during that period of time that he would visit the Cedar Vale most often, whenever Dame Anna would visit her Redwood family. These were pleasant times, and even to this day, Alexandre cherishes their memory. Yet all good things must come to an end. Eventually, Alexandre became a man, and it was time for the Lord, no longer a squire but not yet a knight either, to return home. There, he spent the next few years serving his family and Blancbier, his concern for the people seeing him involved in not only charity, but tangible efforts to improve their lot as well. Indeed, he'd often be seen joining the city patrols on their rounds within the fortress city and beyond. He also joined the Knights of Solace at the time as a disciple, though he did not see Dame Anna Redwood again, not till the Silent War begun. At once, Alexandre volunteered to join the Compact's efforts against Brand, and actively participated within the war, one among countless others fighting back against the evil that had spilled forth from the North, and threatened the Compact itself. Refugees came in drove, often sick and wounded, requiring Mercies and the Knights of Solace to care for them. It was during one such event that Alexandre and others, including Dame Anna, were tasked with sheparding such refugees to a local haven, where Mercies awaited with supplies. Unfortunately, the enemy was aware, and sent a force far outmatching the Knights of Solace and the local garrison to destroy the haven and take its supplies. Shav forces struck at dawn, and though the defenders rallied to face the attackers, they were outmatched. One after the other, Alexandre saw his brothers and sisters in arms fall, the burden to protect weighting heavier on the survivors with every death. For they knew those within would find no mercy. The enemy had come to kill, the only thing they would take with them were the supplies. Evening came, and of the local forces, few remained. The Knights had been reduced to two, Dame Anna and Alexandre. Hope was bleak, even as the enemy pulled back, giving defenders some respite. Not for long. The next clash saw Dame Anne Redwood die, slain by an archer with too much luck or skill. The last of the defenders were forced to push back into the local shrine of Lagoma, the only stone building large enough to contain the refugees and the Mercies that still stood. Alexandre felt despair then, for the first time in his life. He knew he would die. Knew there was no hope, no way out. Thoughts of flight crossed his mind, desperate plans to escape. And as the dread threatened to overwhelm him... He saw them. Families clinging to each other, parents comforting their children though they knew what awaited. And the Mercies, still taking care of their charges, even now holding true to their oaths. Moved by the light of Gild and the warmth of Laghoma, by the selfless sacrifice of those dead and those that yet lived, Alexandre strode forth, and met the enemy's full might in battle. He spoke to his fellow defenders with such conviction, that when he told them to hold the line, they did. Against the Abandonned intent on the destruction of those they were charged to protect, they held the line. Against the horrors of Silence, they held the line. One after the other, they fell. But they did so holding the line. Yet it was enough. When reinforcements came to the rescue, they found Alexandre wounded and battered, his sword broken, more dead than alive. But still holding the line. Alexandre collapsed soon after being told the area was safe, and for a time, it was uncertain whether he'd live or not. Yet he recovered, sent back to Blancbier after the war's end. It was there he was knighted for his actions, though he did not remain for long. New threats arose, banners raised to face the Gyre, a Holy War proclaimed against those that would bring an end to not only the Compact, but the Faith itself. He joined others from the Oathlands to defend Stormwall, surviving the costly victory as far too few did. Now, he has come to Arx. With a light and fire brighter rather than dimmed, he comes to serve House Wyrmguard, the Faith and the whole of the Compact. Not as the sword to pierce the black hearts of demons, but as a shield. To protect all beneath the Compact's aegis, and hold the line.
th the Compact's aegis, and hold the line. +
Born during a late summer, early autumn th …
Born during a late summer, early autumn thunderstorm, Trueth Melaeris was eerily calm when she was born - calm enough to startle the midwife into giving her quite a smack to get her crying. Even her cries were quiet still - but the girl thrived, content to stay near the bosom and bask in love. As she grew older, her family would wish for that quiet time. It was soon enough she was asking "Why?" constantly. "Why is the sky blue? Why does the wind blow? What makes the roses red? Why does the ocean get bigger near the sand sometimes? Why do the servants polish the silver?" Amused and exasperated, tutors were hired. Trueth had a love for knowledge and nature that was not easily contested. It helped that she was smart, too - smart enough to keep her tutors on their toes, when they weren't scolding her for her constant daydreaming. She watched her younger sister Llewella rise to have more responsibility, while she was merely challenged by her tutors. After a long, painful introduction to societal responsibilities for nobles, a marriage was in talks. Then another marriage. And another... until one took. At age 22, Trueth was wed to Roland Redreef, Tiberius Redreef's eldest son. For a variety of reasons, Trueth herself believed the marriage would never work, not only due to a large age gap but due to the fact that she was no Redreef. She preferred gardening, alchemy, and well - not owning thralls, nor did she have any fighting bones in her body, whereas Roland was a decorated soldier with a long battle record. Unexpectedly, love bloomed between them. Roland was kind and gentle with Trueth, accepting her strange, femining ways and putting up with her unending questions. They had an interesting dynamic and Trueth seemed to smooth some of Roland's rough edges. She learned to love the Redreef family, even if she did not completely agree with all of their ideals - until tragedy struck. Just as she was due to give birth to her first child, Roland was struck down in battle. Three years of wedded bliss, barely even time to get to know one another truly - but they did - and Trueth loved him. Trueth, in her grief, locked her and her son away for three long years, more or less. But now she has returned to the City with the little one to split her time between the Melaeris household and the Redreef family, aiming to reconnect with her families and raise her son to be his own person, do things in his own time, and perhaps find another happy ending for herself.
aps find another happy ending for herself. +
Born far from the Compact's borders, withi …
Born far from the Compact's borders, within the last mountain of the North, Magnus' life promised to be no different from his father's, and his own father's. The son of the Chief of the Stahlben, he was expected to keep the watch over the Everwinter, pay the proper respects to the ancestors as Bonesinger, that they might entreat with the Firstborn, and ensure the Stahlben and the people that depended on them prospered and thrived. He exhibited early abilities as not only a leader, but one motivated by the need to look out for others, rather than the power and thrill of leading others. These qualities, along with a voracious curiosity and intelligence, only grew further as he aged and became a man. Duties and responsabilities grew, but he never shied away from them, meeting each challenge head-on, determined and diligent. Failures and successes were met the same way, with a clear and open mind to the rich lessons taught by either. Yet he would only be truly tested shortly after his father's death and his becoming Chief. When the Undying and their servants spilled forth from the Everwinter. Stahlben warriors and allies were gathered, and faced the oncoming tide of destruction with the strength and valour that had seen them triumph for centuries of conflict. They lost. Badly. Forced back to their mountain stronghold, besieged by a foe whose hunger for more death seemed unending, Magnus led the desperate defense to save his people from extinction. The fortress didn't fall, the enemy moving down south instead, to the relief, and dread, of the defenders. They had survived, yes. But Magnus was all too aware of the losses of his people and allies, and their failure at containing the Everwinter's monsters. In the months that followed the Compact's victory over Brand, another foe rose to attack the weakened Stahlben. Now facing either destruction or slavery for his people, Magnus gathered his advisors, and a third option was taken. To bend the knee to the Compact, become one with the victorious kingdom of the Silent War, and adapt to the new world only now awakening from a long darkness. The Stahlben stood unchanging for centuries, yet it is now Magnus' task to guide them during the first and difficult years of new loyalties and culture suddenly before them. He has been tested before and shall be again. But he will succeed. For his people. For the Firstborn. For the Compact.
ple. For the Firstborn. For the Compact. +
Born for royalty, Elizabetha grew up in a …
Born for royalty, Elizabetha grew up in a dream as reality. She found it terribly romantic to be a princess, a damsel, her favorite archetype in the stories she adored throughout childhood. This sparked an early romanticism, which she first expressed on canvas and stage. Innately an actress, she took to performance around age 5, when a Grayson dinner party was witness to an impromptu song and dance atop the table. Art, nevertheless, she names as her true calling. Her work won a plethora of contests, competitions, submissions throughout her years, her growth evinced in each flux of style. Eventually, her touch was lent to halls of marble and gilt. In adolescence, she maintained all that life and vibrancy, with a newfound curiosity that rooted itself in something beyond the typical: the study of alchemy. Her interest budded from a yearning to push the boundaries of painting, but progressed into a deep love of knowledge and academia. Her pursuits led her to experimentations, often safe enough, though she did pick up a few of the less acceptable practices-tattoo artistry a result. Moreover, she adapts the science into her art, the product either disastrous or ingenious. As she matured, Eliza began to note the world around her, the potential it held for her. A budding hunger for exploration drew her from her gardens and halls, to the place where all converge: the capital. Arx is her canvas and her stage, hers the next mark to sweep its expanse.
, hers the next mark to sweep its expanse. +
Born four years before Sasha, Jacque was a …
Born four years before Sasha, Jacque was a boy who dreamed of being a chronicler, a writer, an explorer. He fancied himself becoming a wise man that would teach children the right ways of the Oathlands. The young Jacque set out to try and become this sort of scholar, only to find out that he fell short of it. What he did not fall short of in his education was the physical training. He took to sword and physical exercise tirelessly, impressing his tutors in this regard, while disappointing in every other. He was adequate as a warrior but he was no genius, no smart man; average at best, he struggled with those more complex instructions, before neglecting them outright, in frustration he would opt for the path of the warrior, instead. One that he did not choose for himself, but the only one that was viable for him to walk. This became even more so when Sasha was afflicted with her illness. Out of worry, and protective brotherly concern, he became reliable with a blade, a man of strong build and nimble agility, but also tireless endurance. When his sister went to Arx, he lingered in the Oathlands and traveled the fields, assisting the subjects of his House in a number of different undertakings, all voluntary. He would escort merchants and travelers in the roads and assist the enforcers of the High Lord's law against those that would violate it. However, beneath that steely warrior's exterior was a growing sense of frustration with his life. And it is because of this that he traveled to Arx, in order to fulfill his life's dream without neglecting what led him down the path of martial prowess. He will be a scholar, aye, but he is a warrior, and will be one until he can no longer lift a sword on his own.
he can no longer lift a sword on his own. +
Born further out from the main Donatti fam …
Born further out from the main Donatti family, Alrigo had instilled in him by mother and father the need to always do better. The family worked the docks of Ischia for years and, working around the rougher parts, Alrigo quickly learned how to survive on his feet and use that honey-dipped tongue to escape signs of trouble. After Alexio began building his business in Caina, Alrigo aided the contacts needed in Ischia to start. Here he found some success, a little bit, but soon he knew to make even more money he needed to start growing the business in Arx itself. Here he worked from the bottom and gradually started to build up, learning his tailoring trade, to a point which has caught some attention for just how this man from the docks of Ischia has ended up wearing fine clothes and looking like a cock among hens. Obviously, from Alrigo, he tells the brilliant tale about how the family that was too poor to even eat on some days - ended up being who he is today. A few hearts open up to that, melting in his hands. The story of how this lad from Ischia, who never even once picked up scissors, was able to craft fine jackets for the commoners and once even a Baron. Eyebrows raised. What did he know about fashion? Using that honey-dipped tongue of this, Aligro has since discovered ways to talk himself out of most problems in life, flipping the issue on its head, and pointing at someone else as being the reason it all went wrong. This helped him build up contacts that gave him the ability to open up coffers of silver to fund the family's business - Donatti Imports & Exports.
business - Donatti Imports & Exports. +
Born in Arx to a pair of high class mercha …
Born in Arx to a pair of high class merchants Arielle Rivera was the third born of four children. The Rivera family was common but decently wealthy and catered to nobility with their goods. Arielle grew up with a good education in addition to learning how to sew and tailor garments from her mother. The young girl found herself desiring to make a name for herself in the fashion world. To start trends that would be seen throughout the Compact and be worn at all the best parties. However she found limiting herself to cloth was confining. Arielle had skilled hands and was often put in charge of the more delicate work with embroidery and weaving. One day while helping her mother style her hair for a social event she got an idea. From that idea sprang a new career for Arielle. No longer was she simply a tailor, now she was a stylist. She studied the art of cutting and styling hair. Of applying cosmetics in a fashion that flattered ones face and matched ones attire. And finally at almost twenty years old she began searching for a shop where she could ply her trade officially.
where she could ply her trade officially. +
Born in Arx twenty years ago, Braxas came …
Born in Arx twenty years ago, Braxas came into the world with no surname. His parents whoever they were did not want him so he was left at an orphanage in the worst part of town. Braxas was a dark child, handsome but frightening to the other children because of his dark moods and anger at the world. He started singing when he was five, just letting his emotions out via song. Some of the other boys tried to bully him over the singing but Braxas would not back down. When he was thirteen he ran away from the orphanage to join a troupe of traveling bards. Before he left Tomas his childhood tormentor gave him the scar that remains on his face today. He got away and has since learned how to dodge and defend himself a bit. He stayed with the troupe of bards as they traveled across the land. GOing from city to city Braxas learned how to survive and entertain on the streets. Seven years passed and after Braxas turned twenty he decided to try his luck back home in Arx once again.
try his luck back home in Arx once again. +
Born in Caith to a struggingly shipping fa …
Born in Caith to a struggingly shipping family. Murdoch's elder sister (Lady Beatrice Malespero's mother) inherited. He spent his youth working the docks and caravans by day and learning the books by night, expecting to command one of his family's ships one day. But, just before coming of age, the family fortunes sank leaving a single ship remaining. His sister took command and he was asked to branch out to find new work. After a series of odd jobs and many tough months, he landed a job at a gambling establishment and discovered he had a rare head for numbers. After a few years scrimping and some personnel changes at the establishment, he was put in charge of the ledgers. It was during this time, now in his mid-20's that he met the woman he would eventually marry. Together, they had a daughter and a son, and some of his investments began to bear fruit. Things looked to be going well, and he was even able to help his sister's shipping business stay afloat through a tough spot, but...one day he came home to find tradgey. His wife and children were slain in an apparent robbery. No evidence of the killers was found. He fell into a black period and for years cultivated associates from the less savory contacts he'd met at the gambling house. His sister and her family raised Beatrice during this era, and he managed to teach her a thing or two but eventually was asked that he stay away, lest he taint their business with his shady dealings. Some years later, he learned that Beatrice prospered and was even ennobled by the Argento family. His network of contacts by that point rumored that Pravus would move against them, and for the first time he found he needed to truly pay attention to high houses. Beatrice was sentenced to prison for a year, and he was surprised to learn that she not only survived it, but thrived and landed on her feet as a new member of House Malespero. Curious how she had managed it, and feeling the loss of his own daughter, he visited.
the loss of his own daughter, he visited. +
Born in Elmhurst to a farming family, Adri …
Born in Elmhurst to a farming family, Adriana soon found herself seeking employment in the only tavern in town. She much prefered hauling barrels and trays over farming out in the warm Oathland sun. She found she had a natural talent for people, being able to get them what they needed rather than what they wanted. Adri found she loved to flirt with the handsome farmer's lads (and the not so handsome ones if they could charm her) and enjoyed making their time in the tavern that much more enjoyable for her cheerful temperment and charm. After her uncle's farm was burned to the ground and her cousin Jonathan went off to the big city, she decided she would follow him. Her dream was to one day own her own tavern and she would never be able to make that kind of money at home. Not only did she want her own tavern, she wanted her own cow too. Fresh milk and butter and cheese, and then get bread freshly baked every morning, and make sure her guests had everything they needed to be comfortable. Clean beds without any bugs in them, even. She wants -everyone- to get along and be happy and healthy.
ne- to get along and be happy and healthy. +
Born in January 12, to Robert Ravenseye, D …
Born in January 12, to Robert Ravenseye, Danvir Ravenseye leads an enjoyable life that has always mixed the wild life with the life of a noble. Perhaps it is his fiery red hair, but Danvir Ravenseye showed that he could hold his ground with his favorite weapon: an axe. As he grew he started studying the Family trade: sailing. With this he also had to study economics, the art of war and of course how to be a succesful diplomat. But that was not the only thing Danvir was studying. He also started studies in the occult and he firmly believes in Shamanism, so much so that he does tend to pay his respects to the spirts. And perhaps that has aided him in becoming a better man as he aged. When he hit his eighteen years, he told his loving dad that it was time for him to put the Raveseye name on the nautical maps. And with the blessing of the spirits and his father, he took of to the Compact, intent on increasing his knowledge as well as serving the Northern noble houses better. Some are surprised when this fiery red headed young man speaks about his love for the sea, so much that others think he is from Thrax. That could not be further from the truth. He is a Ravenseye, through and through.
h. He is a Ravenseye, through and through. +
Born in Maelstrom to Prince Drake Thrax, M …
Born in Maelstrom to Prince Drake Thrax, Maren Thrax was the youngest of the five children and the only girl; by virtue of those things she did not feature prominently in the public eye during childhood. The shadows of her brothers were tall, especially her eldest brother Donrai, but she still found ways to thrive amongst them. The household and the family were by no means indulgent, but even predatory sea serpents are sometimes moved by beauty and wit, and it was clear that she would grow into a formidable amount of both. Her parents perished when she was quite young, though the new High Lord was very dutiful in seeing to her education. Perhaps it was hoped she would join other Thraxian notables in a sharp legal and logical mind; but it was something warmer that stirred her even in Maelstrom's environment of stoic and imposing chill. She took to almost any instrument that was placed in her hands with startling ease, even some of the gruffest and most standoffish lords and ladies seemed to at least tolerate and even enjoy her presence. When she was sixteen, she was sent to Arx to serve as a lady in waiting in the royal court, as well as to train in the art of being a courtier from Whisper House. She blossomed there, forming close friendships with many of the other young ladies from Houses throughout the Compact in similar service, and seeking out further training in dance and music. By the time she was in her late teens, she was considered to be one of the beauties of her generation, particularly talented in the arts, enjoying the social whirl of Arx in full. But she was ever mindful of her place and her duty, and when she was twenty she obediently returned to Maelstrom at Donrai's request, enjoying getting reacquainted with the brothers that she'd corresponded regularly with but had seldom seen more than a couple of times a year during her time in Arx, and knowing that within a year she was likely to be introduced to whatever match Donrai decided would serve the interests of House Thrax the best. She continued in her studies of the arts, setting many sailors' and area folklore to music, capturing oral tales into written word and illustration, and even devising performances based on them, though they were often given to others to perform. As a birthday present, Donrai granted her permission to travel to House Blackshore's holdings and the great library there to gather more fodder for her works, though once she returned she was to meet her match. Her travel there was uneventful, and she set off for home by all accounts with many writings and sketches that surely would have fueled her artistic endeavors for many years. But she never returned. A terrible storm kicked up, and the ship she was on as well as one escort was lost, the remaining escort arriving badly battered in Darkwater Watch. After weeks of searching, there was a small amount of wreckage located--and months later more things started to wash up on shore. She was presumed lost at sea. In truth, she almost was. She was one of a very few survivors of the wreck that drifted for weeks; starving, thirsty, sunburnt, eventually all but her succumbing painfully slowly to exposure or their injuries. She was likely only days away from death herself, when a passing foreign ship came across her, one of the high ranking military officers aboard persuaded by his second to overrule the captain and insisting that they examine the strange wreckage. The second, Zixin Lir, was in the smaller boat that approached and drew her from the wreckage, and took her aboard before they continued their journey home. Her life was saved by the healer aboard the ship, but it took many weeks for her to recover, and she stayed with the local magistrate until they could figure out what to do with this foreigner plucked from the sea, as well as find someone who spoke Arvani. There was one constant, however; Zixin visited frequently, helped her learn the language while she taught him hers. Months after her arrival he brought her to a teahouse with musicians--she delighted them by being able to play some of the ones similar to ones she was familiar with, and singing without musical accompaniment some tales from home. After that each time they met, there was yet another new unfolding of art. He would recite poetry to her, for the beauty of the rhythm and sounds for her to enjoy long before she could understand it fully; take her to new places in the area and keep her company as she painted. They were drawn to one another, but their friendship was one that slowly unfolded, growing deeper roots before they allowed other things to blossom. For seven years, even as she built a life in this new place, she ever gave up on trying to find a way back home. Her acclaim as a performer and artist opened doors to talk to influential people, but seldom was she given a clear answer on if it was possible. Finally a visiting Imperial official told her in no uncertain terms that there would be no return, she kept her head high and hid her devastated heart. Weijin wasn't home. Instead, Zixin asked her to consider making a home with him. Nearly ten years after she was first plucked from the sea, she did just that, choosing to set aside her hopes to remain as she once was, a princess of Thrax, to marry for love and hope, and by tradition yield that title to do so. And then she moved forward and onward, using all the gifts of her upbringing, and the resolve and determination she'd only honed in Weijin to truly build a life with him. They welcomed their daughter Zyanya a few years after, when she at last closed the chapter on thinking she would ever see Arvum again. Over the next thirty years their household grew with many students (both hers and his), friendships, grand successes and failures, more happiness than heartache. Watching and guiding their daughter to blossom into a respected artist in her own right, whispering tales of the family and lands that her mother had traveled from, with Maren incorporating as much tradition and teachings as she could into Zyanya's life. The events of the wider world did not really reach her, especially in their quiet area of Weijin. Though the pace of Maren and Zixin's life slowed, she didn't even realize it was the beginning of his twilight years until her beloved warrior-poet died in her arms after a very brief illness. Devastated, she once again summoned her strength to be strong for her daughter now too. It was after his death that she discovered that Zixin hadn't forgotten her love of the Mourning Isles and those she'd left behind, and intended to honor the Arvani heritage of his child as well. Decades of dedicated and decorated service to Weijin and Jadairal had given him some influence on the layers of bureaucracy of the empire, and unbeknownst to her he'd been pushing on that quite heavily behind the scenes, to grant his family a favor upon his passing. He knew that she wouldn't leave his side, and that he was unlikely to be able to leave Jadairal. His final gift to her, after his passing, was a chance for an audience that might allow her to see Arvani shores again. Once more, the current in her life shifted, this time drawing her back to the home she never thought she would see again, bringing with her her greatest treasure and brightest hope, to give her daughter a chance to experience her heritage in full.
chance to experience her heritage in full. +
Born in Oakhaven, to parents who were both …
Born in Oakhaven, to parents who were both Trackers, Apollo should have had an ideal childhood. But fate was less than kind to him, and at the tender age of six, while traveling between Lyon's Redoubt and Keaton Keep, he and his family were ambushed by a group of bandits looking to thin the packs of hunters after them. Apollo's parents were killed in the conflict and the boy was taken, the plan to rear him as a bandit, the irony found to be delicious. Weeks passed, but eventually another pack of Trackers discovered the location of the bandit's hideout and cleared the lot of them out. When Apollo was found, one of the huntsmen recognized the boy and took him home to Keaton Keep where the child was raised in the court. As an adult, he is fiercely loyal to the Keaton family. Eschewing the path of his parents, he learned the special art of tanning and leathercraft Oakhaven has become known for. The secrets of its manufacture are now his. When Kael left Oakhaven to come to Arx, he tapped his best leatherworker to come with him to see about making a name for themselves in Arx.
about making a name for themselves in Arx. +
Born in Sanctum to a groundskeeper of the …
Born in Sanctum to a groundskeeper of the (mostly) respectable Morgan family and a Lycene duelist slicing her way into the Oathlands, Xandrine grew up proud of her family's reputation for honor and air of danger, both. Only fitting, no, for a descendant of the very first Champion? After the Tragedy, like many survivors, felt compelled to become a knight. She was far too young to take up arms, but that didn't stop her. Finding a Knight of the Laurent family who would squire her, she worked determinedly. Also fitting for the descendant of the very first etc, she displayed a natural talent for fighting, and quickly developed a rivalry with another young squire and aspiring Champion. Competition fueled her on towards excellence, developing a reputation - in the Laurent lands, at least. Oaths taken, duels fought (and sometimes won), Xandrine was sent on another mission: Go to Arx, escorting some precious cargo.
Go to Arx, escorting some precious cargo. +
Born in September 15, Jarel Redrain has al …
Born in September 15, Jarel Redrain has always been interested in being a dedicated warrior for his people. And thus that has been the majority of his focus as he grew older. Many would claim that Jarel was definitely born to be one, probably in no small regard due to his strength and dedication. Growing up he would be around warriors whether they were nobles or otherwise. That wasn't a distinction he was worried about. So he learned all he could from his peers, becoming a ferocious combatant. More so with the bastard sword he seemed to favor. It can be stated that he is everything a Northerner should be up and including how barbaric he can be in a fight. After years of training and becoming an adept warrior, Jared Redrain has been living in Arx for some time, where he does what is best to serve his people, as well as support his other family members.
well as support his other family members. +
Born in a lumberers cottage in the wilds o …
Born in a lumberers cottage in the wilds outside Farhaven, Nabok was born as the first signs of spring came to the lands. From a young age he was taught to cut wood, like his father and grandfather before him, and to accept his lot in life. Conditions were tough, but Nabok had a happy childhood. Food was gathered, hunted and fishd from the surrounding woods, and his father, a large, fiery man aptly named Storm, owned two sheep that provided them with wool. He even got a little sister, Eria. Every winter, he would accompany his mother and father to the outskirts of Farhaven to trade kindlewood and timber for other supplies. It was on a day such as this, as Nabok approched his 13th birthday, that his life abruptly changed. The winter had been an escpecially cold one, and business had been good, so his father was haggling for a new sheep. Hot-headed as he was, the haggling escalated into a fight, and Storm, with a slip of the fist, punched a guard dead. Nabok and his mother left Farhaven without Storm that day. Just a few weeks later, his mother became ill and feverish. He turned to the spirits of the forest for guidance the night his mother died. Young Nabok, was suddendly the sole provider of a young sister. He did not give up though, and the siblings continued the cycle of life that they had known, growing more and more distanced from civilization with each passing summer. Life was not finished with him, though. The autumn of his 24th year, as he returned from a bountiful hunt, he came back to the remains of a smoking cottage, pillaged and looted by passing raiders. Eria had stayed in the cottage while he was hunting, and her burnt corpse was still warm when he arrived. He vowed that day to leave the forest, to seek revenge over those who had murdered his sister and destroyed their way of life, and set out to the center of the kingdom for look for them.
e center of the kingdom for look for them. +
Born in a small village, Cade's mother die …
Born in a small village, Cade's mother died a few days after his birth. He was left to be raised by his stern and unaffectionate father who was a former mercenary. Even as a boy, Cade's father instilled into him the hard work and discipline that he had learned from his travels. Having not known any gentle touch and constantly receiving his father's ire, Cade grew to resent his father. When his father died of sickness, Cade packed whatever belongings he could carry and left the village, knowing that there was nothing left for him there. He traveled from one village to the next, doing some odd jobs when he could. From then on he wandered aimlessly, only doing what he deemed necessary to get him through the day.
emed necessary to get him through the day. +
Born in an unremarkable farming village to …
Born in an unremarkable farming village to an unremarkable family, Genevieve always wanted more from life. Although she could appreciate the wholesome routines of her rural community for what they were, she nonetheless found them tedious and uninspiring -- a never-ending cycle of ploughing fields, harvesting crops and foraging for food, occasionally broken up by a rustic festival or a wagon ride to the market in the nearest town. The only activity that really gave her some pleasure and made her feel alive was training in the village militia, but even then she found herself wanting for more discipline and more advanced tutelage than the local watchmen could provide. At the age of 18, Genevieve left her home village and set out on her own path. She would see sights beyond the fields and pastures with a sword on her belt and a bow slung across her back, seeking adventure and coin.
ross her back, seeking adventure and coin. +
Born in area called Rivermuth, far south o …
Born in area called Rivermuth, far south of Pridehall, Cerdensulathara was one among a litter of children. Her father was a butcher and a warrior, her mother a tanner. For five long and tiresome years, they lived a simple existence. The worst of their troubles were occasional raids, and the strife caused by Cerden's peculiar fits. Rumors held her to be plagued by evil spirits, and she was subject to many, many attempts to cure her. When the neighboring tribe invaded fully, her mother managed to escape with her and two of her siblings into the woods. Traveling northeast into the woods, they were able to assimilate into another group, but it wasn't long before they her mother was presented with a choice to leave with the disabled young girl, or the tribe would sell her off. Unwilling to put her other two living children under such stress, she simply abandoned Cerden in the woods. It was a miracle of some kind that she survived to the age of thirteen. And despite the harsh realities of living in the wild, there was a peace to the daily struggle. Her fits lessened, she learned how to hunt, what to eat and what not to, (through great trial and error), and was quite happy in her life. Unfortunately, fighting between two villages drove more people into her neck of the woods, and eventually she was captured by Abandoned warriors. Who knows where should would be now if she had not been saved by the Knights of Solace. It was a short trip to the city of Arx. She swore her allegiance to the Crown, and was placed in the care of an aloof horse trader, a cousin to the very Knight who rescued her, and his wife, a well to do poet and seamstress, both childless and grateful for an opportunity to care for and teach someone less fortunate. She flourished in the Upper Boroughs, and it was a good time for the young woman. She was taught the wonders of reading and numbers, which she excelled at. She was given simple chores, and taught prayers, which she excelled at. She discovered the many different libraries and temples, and spent the majority of her time there when not helping out at home. Before she left to strike out on her own, she made a bit of silver tutoring the younger children of her adopted mother's social circle, possessing a talent for making complicated subjects simpler. Using her modest income, she's rented a small place in the upper boroughs, and few who ever met her would realize she's a Prodigal. She plans on becoming an explorer, writing books on obscure knowledge and history, and becoming a renowned scholar. Perhaps one day she can own a place of her own, with a bookcase of titles she's written herself detailing grand adventurers, treatises on lost lore and profound essays on rare phenomena.
ore and profound essays on rare phenomena. +
Born in arx in a poor neighborhood, avak z …
Born in arx in a poor neighborhood, avak zadarra lived hard. His parents were soldiers, and good ones, but they used all their money on equipment. At a young age, avak knew he wanted to be like them. He applied as soon as he could, and after being accepted, he was tested. He was found to be weak, but good with a sword, so they took him anyway. Now he fights as a soldier, even though he is weak.
ghts as a soldier, even though he is weak. +
Born in one of the smaller mountain villag …
Born in one of the smaller mountain villages in the North, he was scooped up by an army recruiter shortly after reaching adulthood, his knowledge of the area along with his hunting and trail skills making him a useful skirmisher. A few small wars later, Sergeant at Arms Aisling left his Lord's service with a pension, some spoils and a desire to spend some time on his own for once. Going back to his village didn't seem quite right, not after all he had seen so after shipping home a totally non-blood-spattered care-package he vanished into the woods. Bored with his own company and perhaps missing the camaraderie of his unit, he has headed to the big city to see what that's like instead.
big city to see what that's like instead. +
Born in the Crownlands to nobody of import …
Born in the Crownlands to nobody of importance, Jarryck was born a large baby. His parents were both farmers, and as Jarryck grew stronger and taller, he was made to work on the farm, something he was good at, since it was physical. He found the work tiresome, however, and was always fighting the other boys, when he could.
ys fighting the other boys, when he could. +
Born in the Hall of the Grim, Cordelia und …
Born in the Hall of the Grim, Cordelia understood at an early age two very important things. Firstly, she never subscribed to the strict and punishing patriarchal beliefs pervading most of the Mourning Isles. Secondly, if she was ever going to enjoy life, she would have to find entertainment on her own. Not so much comprehending as reacting to the expressions on her neglectful mother's face after a visit with the Duke, she strove to conduct little rebellions against authority. One day, she might dodge her tutors or ruin her clothes. Another day, she'd soap up the floors and secretly watch her elders trip. More guards were hired for the simple dual purposes of keeping an eye on Cordelia, and patrolling for childish traps. At first, she was just trying to gain attention, but her disobedience evolved into outright unshakable independence. After managing to convince a combat instructor to train her, a brother eventually goaded her into a duel, to once and for all prove the reason and superiority of traditional Thraxian values. Scarred and incensed by the loss, it only drove her further away. At just fifteen, she ran off to join a group of adventurers allegedly seeking fame and fortune. Buoyed by others with a similar perspective, she felt wonderfully liberated. The band of explorers journeyed from one end of the Compact to the other, hoping to find lost articles from before the Reckoning in all sorts of strange and enigmatic places. Ultimately, the Duke's men found her and returned her home, but she responded with the announcement that she would become a Champion. They retorted with a short list of likely betrothals, and so she was sent to the center of the Compact to meet her future husband.
of the Compact to meet her future husband. +
Born in the Lower Boroughs, Vernan was bor …
Born in the Lower Boroughs, Vernan was born into the Culler family. His father was a Culler and the brother of Rencio. He grew up with Torian. His parents died in an unfortunate 'accident' and the Culler family took Vernan under their wing. He ended up showing a knack for survival and seamanship and he ended up on one of their ships. He was a natural. He ended up press ganged, so he couldn't return home as quickly as he wanted to. But he always knew who he was, and where his loyalties lie. He was drawn to the sea, but he was a Culler at heart. By his late teens, he was already adept at sailing and trade. He knew the ocean and he knew his competition. Around 20, he came across a young girl who he adopted into the family as his sister, stowing her away at various ports until she was old enough to learn the ropes. Meanwhile, he became more and more skilled at what he did. Recently, a death in the family has drawn him back to the Lower Boroughs. His skills have been put to use by the family's growing fleet. And that's where he met Acacia. Skeptical at first, he's grown to admire her. He is fiercely loyal to her, while at the same time occassionally challenging her sanity. He serves now (better at sea than on land) and seeks to show his adopted little sister how to be a true Culler.
ted little sister how to be a true Culler. +
Born in the Lycene city state of Tor, Ced' …
Born in the Lycene city state of Tor, Ced's parents were Vesalius, a mason, and Robyn, a noted artist. It is from his mother that he first developed his love of anatomy, as he was often underfoot in the salons and portrait galleries - often, with models in the natural state, given Lycene tastes. He was always sharp as a child, and ever getting into problems, but usually able to think or talk his way out of them, and grew a decent artist in his own right, though he was far better at sketches and outlines than picture perfection. He, an only child, was offered a scholarship to the Tor Academy and excelled in many of his classes. He enrolled in the college of Alchemy, Medicine and Apothecary, though left quite adruptly in his last year of study. There was some question as to why he left so suddenly, but usually it is chalked up to his uncanny ability, that he simply had learned all he could there. He travelled first to Setarco, where he set up his shingle. Performing many operations in a rather short time period, he drew the attention of House Pravus, who offered him patronage and a bigger space than his less-than-desireable bit-rate clinic. Travelling with many of their family over the years, he has both cared for the members and employees of the Pravus household as well as made significant contributions to the field of anatomy, and his texts are starting to make their way into public light, although there are many who scoff at his methods and ideas.
e many who scoff at his methods and ideas. +
Born in the Northlands, in Redrain lands, …
Born in the Northlands, in Redrain lands, Kiral was abandoned at birth, or at least this is what the shaman that found him wrapped up in cloth in the middle of the woods assumed. This man was named Regor. Taking the event as a sign, due in part to a snake-like birthmark on the child's arm, the shaman took the child in and raised him as his own. Kiral grew up rather estranged from others, his surrogate father being a rather solitary and self-sufficient man. Kiral, of course, took after him and learned many skills from a young age such as how to start a fire, skin and gut some game, and of course, partake in the rituals of the Path of the Hunt. The boy came to know the wilds well, preferring them to the nearby towns which he would occassionally venture into with Regor. He began to commune with spirits as a young boy, something Regor took as a good omen up until the boy began to become consumed by episodes of rage and other strange fits during his communion. Regor did his best to teach Kiral how to control himself, and largely succeeded, though Kiral never succeeded in fully controlling the bouts of being consumed in the spirit of another, nor did he want to. In the first years of Kiral's adulthood, Regor passed away after a bad bout of dysentry, leaving the young man alone. At first, Kiral survived by hunting game and selling it to nearby towns. This lasted for some time until he was offered some mercenary work, which he found himself to have a knack for, and chose to pursue some more. The next few years of Kiral's life were spent wandering about from town to town, finding work where he could. He went hungry on some days in the beginning of his career, but eventually he garnered the skills required to make a living knocking heads together and hunting bands of brigands that harrassed towns and villages, putting his childhood affinity for hunting to good use. It was during these years that Kiral found a taste for battle, and for blood. Battle to him was another ritual, a part of the Hunt, and he would often relish in it and lose himself among the spirits on the battlefield. Years passed, and Kiral found himself wandering about the realm, mostly in the Northlands until he would eventually find himself in Arx, seeking work, coin and communion with the land's spirits.
oin and communion with the land's spirits. +
Born in the city of Sanctum, Armel early o …
Born in the city of Sanctum, Armel early on heard the clarion call of the Gods, often spending much time in the numerous chapels and temples of the city, and was utterly fascinated by how the priests could deliver such powerful messages with such few, strong words and convictions. With the messages of strength through mercy and protection through faith. When he was a young man of fourteen, his family decided to move to Arx, to hopefully continue his father's business as a carpenter, while his mother found side work as a gardener and servant. They were poor, but rich in spirit as folk. It was on the way that the family was accosted by desperate, hostile shavs, and both of his parents and his toddler sister were killed. Young Armel barely managed to escape with his life, and still bears the scars of that assault upon his face and spirit. From that moment on, as he wandered into Arx maimed and dispirited, he dedicated his life to that of the Godsworn. He became a Knight of Solace, traveling the roads of the Compact and protecting all travelers and pilgrims that wished to use them. It was not an easy life, and he has seen death in almost every form that can be offered by the hearts of men, and some that cannot, in any sane universe. For his years of service to Gild and to his Order, he was Knighted several years ago, and is now Sir Armel, such as it is, a title he received with a low, amused grunt and a simple 'I'll be'. He has now come to Arx, for the need for his Order here is great, and he wishes to be of service in whatever capacity he can, learning from those in the Order and those around, for veteran that he is? There is still much to learn in life. Always is.
is still much to learn in life. Always is. +
Born in the city of Tor to a house servant …
Born in the city of Tor to a house servant of House Fidante, Alejandro Rossetti was the first of three children born within three years of his parent's marriage. Precocious from a young age, he was considered by some to be a musical prodigy at the age of four. There was talk that the Whisper house in Arx was interested in him but by that time his path had already been laid out before him. By luck and hard work he was being raised with Lady Calista, the very young daughter of Duchess Giancinta Fidante. There was tragedy that saw Giancinta killed and Calista's brother Leo eventually becoming Duke but neither Alejandro nor Calista could well remember those times. He was raised and educated by the same tutors she was and the pair grew close. The boy's musical talent blossomed and he became well known in the gardens of Tor for practicing his guitar and trying out new songs on both the Duke's sister and anyone else that would come past. His relationship with Calista grew to one of constant companion and confidant. A convoluted series of events saw more change come to House Fidante when Alejandro had moved to Arx and Calista ascended to her brother's seat as ruler of Tor. The Duchess of Roses, they called her. Numerous were the songs he wrote in honor of his friend and now liege. Alejandro is content with his life of service and is honored with the role he plays for the young duchess, chief among them being friend.
ng duchess, chief among them being friend. +
Born in the fall as the only child of Maxw …
Born in the fall as the only child of Maxwell and Eugenia Keaton, young Lord Rowley was always a curious boy. Even from his earliest days a near endless stream of questions were typical fare from the young lord, often to the annoyance of his father who was a prominent and rising captain among the brigades of Keaton archers. Eventually as he became older, Rowley would learn to temper his natural curiosity to avoid the ire of his father, though his hunger for information and understanding was hardly quenched. When his lessons began, Rowley took to his studies like a fish to water. Everything, that is... other than the training surrounding swordplay, archery, or anything else that his father thought that he should be good at. Oftentimes Rowley would shirk his lessons when it came time for him to practice with the rest of the younger children, waiting for his chance to sneak away to watch the crafters at work as they plied metal to their will or brought their ideas to life upon canvas or carving them of wood and stone. No amount of whippings seemed to be able to cure the boy of his obsessions. So his life went for his childhood, ever shouldering the burden of being his father's greatest disappointment. He learned the art of working metal and painting in secret from a few friendly disciples of Jayus. Almost constantly he could be found tinkering with this and that. Such things brought Rowley joy. Enough so that when his parents began talks of marriage and upholding his duty to the Keaton family, Rowley decided that such a life was not enough for him. He did what he had to in order to make known his desire to join with the Faith, something that his father could not openly oppose no matter how much it might sting to lose his only child. And so he found a home where his passions were no longer shunned or held as an ever present disappointment. Where he could finally carry on his work in peace.
could finally carry on his work in peace. +
Born in the lower boroughs, that is what C …
Born in the lower boroughs, that is what Canaan spent a majority of his life. His father passed due to illness at an age he was too young to really recall, raised by his mother in majority. Too trusting at a young age he had an incident that left him somewhat untrusting despite his mother's insistence that people, as a whole, were good. It was a nice sentiment but not exactly easy to believe. His inquisitive nature brought him into brushing with the unsavory side of law led to some unfortunate outcomes and the wagging finger of his mother. In adulthood he married for a number of years before divorce came about and left him a bit weary (and quite late in the game) of further romantic pursuits, It was not long after he lost his mother to natural causes. Still.his curious nature often lead him down figurative rabbit-holes simply because not knowing the answer could become a persistent itch in the back of his head until at least attempting to look into those things with due caution toward things one generally shouldn't pry into. This natural desire to know and the irritation of lingering unknowns has lent his naturally developed skills toward helping out others when the price is right, even if it's as simple as finding proof of infidelity.
as simple as finding proof of infidelity. +
Born in the north, Snow was born in the mo …
Born in the north, Snow was born in the mountains to a roaming tribe of hunters and gatherers who clung heavily to the old ways for generations after the compact was established. Though by the time he was five years old most of his tribe of people were dwindled away, from death, war and disease. He found most of his time as a child was spent on the chores or being alone to walk through the woods. And it was there, that he found his kindredness with the land around him, finding everything to be special in a way to him. This was improved by the elders of his tribe and soon he studied to be an herbalist, and healer, though when another shav tribe made a raid on their lands they destroyed everything leaving a young Snow to flee down into the valleys and hiding places. It was then that The spirits of the mountain he called home hid him, he claims, a blizzard rising up and blanketing the ground with ice though the day he insists had been clear. Since then he had communed and studied until He stumbled into a camp of Redrain soldiers , and in exchange for assistance in healing he was given food and a place to rest. From there he was brought back, and in exchange for lodging and work he was to swear fealty to Redrain and be accepted into the compact.
Redrain and be accepted into the compact. +
Born in the shadow of Cornelius and Oswald …
Born in the shadow of Cornelius and Oswald, Aedric developed an immediate aversion to court politics and family diplomacy. Opting instead to follow in his bloodline's rich history of mercantilism and exploration, he spent most of his childhood pouring over textbooks, joining vassals and fishmongers on their expeditions to sea, and memorizing naval trade routes. The older he grew, the less time he spent ashore -- missing even the marriages of his brothers and births of his nieces and nephews. Rather than utilize the resources granted to him by noble privilege, he worked tirelessly to establish commercial and personal relationships throughout Arvum.
d personal relationships throughout Arvum. +
Born in the southern states, Lasha was a m …
Born in the southern states, Lasha was a member of the prodigal tribes, drawn in and brought under the fealty of House Pravus in their expansion and establishment of a great house. Formerly considered an abandoned, he swore fealty to the house instead of being subjugated by force. Still, his clan was known for trade, and lesser known activities such as smuggling rare goods across the ocean. Through the years he worked on growing his fleet, before heading in to land seeking employment where he could walk the edges of lawful society, though those criminal elements continued to be exploited, even after he made himself captain of first one ship, then two. By the time his fleet had grown to a reputable size, he took heavy losses, during a large storm, three of his vessels sank with the remainder being rendered near unusable. Now he works on rebuilding and establishing himself as a shipping magnate through Arx, running his company with a ruthless efficiency and with dominance that proceeds him. His reputation known simply for his hot temper, raucous behavior and tenacity that few captains are known for.
tenacity that few captains are known for. +
Born in the tougher parts of the world, in …
Born in the tougher parts of the world, in the Lower Boroughs, the daughter of a thief and her man, she grew up swift fingered and able to defend herself. She was often found tagging along with her partner in crime, Raymesin. Eventually, her parents had their life of crime catch up with them and had to skip town, leaving Cora to depend on her own skills and her friends.
depend on her own skills and her friends. +
Born into House Pravus among a line so dis …
Born into House Pravus among a line so distant you can almost see them from the shoreline if you squint, Amaranth has enjoyed all of the privileges of her name and none of the responsibilities or duties. To say that she was a wild child is putting it mildly, with her noble name sheltering her from the worst consequences of her behavior. As fate would have it, her untamable nature lead her to the curious habit of taming and training wild or foreign creatures. She gathers them like some noblewomen gather jewelry, and gifts them away just as easily.
welry, and gifts them away just as easily. +
Born into a Halfshav village west of White …
Born into a Halfshav village west of Whitehold at the forest's edge, Violet spent much of her early childhood as a hunters apprentic. A mother, a father, and four brothers, the family did well living off the land and selling to the leatherworkers. There would be the occasional skirmish with the Abandoned who had their own town nearby, but Halfshav forces usually kept them in their place and drove them off if they got too near. Eventually though, it wasn't enough. A warband from the village had gotten tired of the constant warfare, and attacked the small village outright. It was a massacre, with the Halfshav army coming too late to protect them. By the time they arrived, all save for Violet and her young brother had been killed, despite the hunters taking their share of lives from the barbarian assault. Only by running into the woods and firing from cover did they manage that. The Halfshav force stayed to protect and fortify, and meanwhile, hired a force of Crimson Blades camping nearby to aid in the assault on the Abandoned and destroy them in retaliation. Being within riding distance easily enough, the half archer, half heavy infantry force marched on the Abandoned with the Halfshav forces... including Violet. By the time the battle was done, there were few survivors of the abandoned town and those scattered to the wind. If she had been stronger, more skilled she might have been able to keep the rest of the family alive. Having witnessed firsthand how good the Crimson Blades were, she swore herself to them on the spot, having already proved her worth in battle. Both to protect her brother, and to find a new purpose in life. Two years passed, and it hadn't taken long for her drive and commitment to take her from a private in the scout Companies, to a the upper tiers of officers. With Briar's education seen too she was able to pour herself even more into her work. When he left for the North to train as a Shaman, that only drove her to work harder. The idea of being a protector and him having a safe place to come back to was always foremost in her mind. Through the Silent War she proved her worth and uncaring eye for danger and the enemy. Battles and contracts under her belt the massacre of her company, Ruby Company, with her as the sole survivor put a fire in her gut. In less than a year she has gone from Lieutenant she rocketed to Colonel. Quickly she came to be Lord Tobias Telmar's right hand. So it was no surprise that when he disappeared he left the Crimson Blades and their command in her hands. During all this her own personal life was ablaze with a marriage to Thorley Sandreef that lasted but a days before his abrupt flight and negation of their bond. Soon after Briar returned to Arx from his training and quickly made his place in the city as well as joining the Blades. The Blades were her family, now they are more than ever.
e her family, now they are more than ever. +
Born into a Halfshav village, Briar was th …
Born into a Halfshav village, Briar was the third youngest son of a full family of woodcrafters. A mother, a father, and three brothers, and a sister, Violet, the family did well living off the land and selling to the leatherworkers. He got to spend his days following his older sister around the woods, her eternal shadow. That would occasionally wander where the dappled sunlight or shadows seemed to guide him. A true child of the forest he could approach a deer with surprising ease. There would be the occasional skirmish with the Abandoned, but for most of his young life it wasn't a real threat. Eventually though, it wasn't enough. A warband from the village had gotten tired of the constant warfare, and attacked the small village outright. Only Violet dragging him out of bed before dawn and into the surrounding forests allowed them to survive the massacre of their family and most everything and everyone they had known.. By the time the Halfshav army arrived it was too late to do anything but help the survivors. Briar and Violet didn't leave with the others, however, and stayed to take out the warband once and for all. The Halfshav army had hired a nearby company of Crimson Blades to assist them in the eradication of this particular Abandoned problem. When the dust settled the survivors of the village were scattered and Violet and he had no home or family to go too. Yet his sister's talent with a bow had caught the Colonel of the Blade company's attention. Soon they were off to Arx with the Blades and a new life. Briar, who had always had a calling for shamanism finally had the ability to do something with it. Being a woodcrafter was all well and good, but he felt his passion lay with the spirits. So with his sisters blessing and support, he joined the Spirit Walkers. It was been a few years now and he has grown well into his vocation, his fierce energy doing him well in some areas and less in others.
him well in some areas and less in others. +
Born into a commoner family that has a lon …
Born into a commoner family that has a long history of serving House Valardin, Katarzyna (pronounced: kah-tah-SZIH-nah) (which is often too difficult for people to pronounce, so she also goes by Kat or Kitty) had a decent upbringing as the youngest in a brood of four children. She grew up as the only daughter in her immediate family which meant that her brothers' footsteps were quite large for her to follow. Living close to aunts and uncles also meant that Katarzyna had the chance to grow up alongside her cousins where she learned an array of skills thanks to their passions and interests. It's also how she discovered that her place was to be in the medical field. Her brothers always had need of bandages or medicinal tinctures, and more than once she had to help apply salve to her cousin Holden's bruises, or clean Aleksei's knicks from a blade, or concoct a remedy for Briseis's headaches, or help ease the stomach pains of those that ingested some of Warrick's confections. It was a calling, her mother said. Katarzyna was meant to help people. She apprenticed with physicians as soon as she turned the proper age to begin medical studies. As an apprentice, she excelled and showed promise with her attention to detail and calm demeanor under pressure. Physicians often called upon her to assist with procedures when they felt that she was ready to do more than observe, which was more often than not. She was always eager to do rather than watch. When she became a full fledged physician, Katarzyna was sent to a southern duchy to work alongside a local Mercy. The pair ended up traveling to surrounding counties and baronies to visit those that had need of medical attention and treatment. Katarzyna learned the ways of the road as she traveled and embraced with gratitude her ability to practice medicine while seeing the diverse regions of Arvum. She did this for a handful of years until the battle at Stormwall drew her north where she served as a medic and then served again when crisis struck the Lodge of Petrichor. Having since returned to a 'quiet' life on the road, recent news led her back to the city of Arx where she now hopes to find purpose helping those in need.
pes to find purpose helping those in need. +
Born into a family of soldiers, Janora felt destined for much the same. She grew up practicing fighting with boys, as well as her father, before joining a local unit soon into adulthood, joining her family's legacy. +
Born into a large family, Eshra had three …
Born into a large family, Eshra had three older brothers, Gavier, Raqui, and Athaur, to watch out for her when she took her first steps. While she loved her father, Aegis, she was closest to her mother, Triega, and learned about the spirits and ways of navigating for their people. Instead of pulling ropes and setting sales, she was looking at maps, measuring distances and following the stars at night. For the rivers and sea were her home, and dry land was something she rarely touched. Growing up among ravashari smugglers, Eshra remembers a time when House Valardin were the enemy and tried to bring them to heel. They would try to stop their efforts to move goods for the other Abandoned Tribes. She liked nothing better than outwitting the stuffy Valardin knights who tried to enforce their rules on the Free. Of course Freedom comes with a price and she remembers the day Brand's dark magic enslaved her people and forced them to fight a battle that was not theirs. She lost many friends and family when House Thrax's navy struck down her people on the day Brand tried to breech Arx's walls. She mourns the loss of his father, former leader of the Rivenshari, his mother, former Voice, and two brothers. Their losses were devastating for the young woman. If not for Athaur and their younger brother, Mattheu, then she would have lost the will to live. When he to her and asked her help to rebuild Rivenshari, she accepted without second thought. Of course, she never realized her brother meant to take bended knee to House Greenmarch, so they would now serve their former enemy, House Valardin. At first she tried to fight it, but once it became clear that it was her only option, she put aside her differences and stood by her brother's side when he pledged to House Greenmarch.
side when he pledged to House Greenmarch. +
Born into a large family, there was never …
Born into a large family, there was never a dull moment for Cosette. She grew up with two older brothers and a slew of cousins in the mountains. Her father kept busy with the other mountain men, and her mother kept busy with the family when she wasn't doing work as an apothecary. Cosette was always interested in plants and minerals, and it was only natural for the girl to grow up learning apothecary skills from her mother. She learned about medicines and poisons, and she also dabbled in making other off-the-wall potions. 'Love' potions? 'Truth' potions? Whether or not they truly work, she always enjoyed creating new mixtures and tinctures for others. Once she became older Cosette decided she wanted to make the trip to Arx to see what it was like. She heard she had several cousins there, and would find a home with her extended family as she tried to make a name for herself as an apothecary.
make a name for herself as an apothecary. +
Born into a minor line of the Redrain fami …
Born into a minor line of the Redrain family, Conall grew up just outside of Farhaven where the importance of preparing for war had been strongly impressed upon him. Eschewing drunken antics for strict discipline and drilling, he came to be known for his odd habits as much as the zeal with which he approached military life. When he was finally allowed to accompany patrols hunting for Shavs Conall was in his true element. The battle of Stormwall left him more detached and realistic towards the approaches one should take towards evil. Heavily injured in that conflict, he spent a long time in recovery before able to help aid in defending the North again. For reasons known only to himself, he recently left for Arx without a word to anyone in Farhaven beforehand.
t a word to anyone in Farhaven beforehand. +
Born into an off-cast branch of the Redree …
Born into an off-cast branch of the Redreef family, Ximun wasn't the type to follow politics. Instead, he was drawn to the tracking of animals and creatures. His parents did try to mould him into a proper noble, married him to a lady of Redrain - who unfortunately perished shortly after their first anniversary when she was wounded on a hunt that the two had gone on to celebrate. Breaking completely from his noble duties, Ximun took to the Thraxian navy as a hunter, a sailor, and eventually returned to land to continue his ways. It's rumored that his family still owns the contracts to many Thralls and is a holdout of the changes of reform that seem to be trying to take root when it comes to indentured servitude.
oot when it comes to indentured servitude. +
Born into the Stonehart tribe Zenix entere …
Born into the Stonehart tribe Zenix entered this world as an Abandoned. They were groomed to become the next shaman from a young age and this defined their youth. They spent their days studying the spirit realm and esoteric history and knowledge. Often this meant spending time with the then Shaman Mohaka. He was kind to Zenix but still strict in his tutorage. Zenix spent little time with the other children and thus missed out on many social lessons. As Zenix got older they spent less and less time with people and more and more time in the wilderness befriending animals, in particular a small bear cub. Zenix called them Big Paw to help encourage them to grow larger. Zenix would lose their innocence when one day they were held down and beaten by some of the other children. They spit on Zenix, said nasty and mean things and injured them badly, so bad as to leave several scars all over their body. Permanent reminders of the potential cruelty of humanity. Now very cynical about people but idealistic in the resolve to be different from them. Zenix left the tribe after their mother died. Zenix had had enough suffering in their life with the tribe. So they left and wandered with Big Paw (Who had indeed grown.) for a bit. One day Zenix happened upon a trapped hound. She released it only to discover it belonged to one Lady Arianna Stonewood. Arianna thanked Zenix and gave them a sweet treat. Intrigued by this wonderful foodstuffs Zenix asked to camp with Arianna and her guard for the night hoping to have more sweets come morning. Alas the sweets never came but Zenix did make a new friend of sorts. Zenix has travelled with Arianna and arrived at her estate where Zenix was offered a position as house mystic. Zenix is still considering, but has been promised sweets.
considering, but has been promised sweets. +
Born into the church, he was dropped off a …
Born into the church, he was dropped off at the doors as an infant. Though he began his training as a scholarly monk, he possessed the heart of a warrior. While protecting one of the other orphans from a village bully, he was shipped off to study with the more combat-oriented Templars. He quickly took to the spear, and still prefers it above all other weapons, despite his large size.
all other weapons, despite his large size. +
Born into the ducal line of House Laurent, …
Born into the ducal line of House Laurent, Abby had been pegged as something of an 'odd duck' from her early childhood. With so many siblings ahead of her, the threat of inheritance was almost moot. Allowing her the luxury of living a comfortable life, albeit an uneventful one. She'd most commonly spent her time around the chapels, becoming a regular thorn in the side of Artshall's clergy. Bombarding them with questions or asking to assist in every little task well into her teenage life. It came as no surprise when she set on the path to be Godsworn the moment she'd come of age. It'd be a few years before she found a proper discipleship to settle into. With the addition of the Queen of Endings to the Pantheon and the creation of the Harlequins, Abby directed her passion toward reverence of the Goddess of Death. Her attitude made a very stark contrast to her macabre interests. Strangely, the skulls seemed to suit her. Bit more than the bees did, anyway.
t her. Bit more than the bees did, anyway. +
Born into the exorbitantly rich, Saffron c …
Born into the exorbitantly rich, Saffron commoner family of Pontelaeus, fortune has always been at Savio's service. However, where it inspired ambition in his brother Giorgio, it bred indolence in his younger brother. None of Savio's projects, aspirations, or ambitions ever seemed to succeed, and plagued by bad luck, he soon learned to stop trying. Why struggle? Why not just enjoy success? Though he had some martial skill and talent at entertaining, Savio did not share Giorgio's aptitude or interest in the cutthroat social dances and economic mastery that made Pontelaeus what it is. Eventually his bad luck and misfit nature created a series of bitter disagreements with his relatives, and Savio sought to distance himself from the family. He disappeared to other parts of the Saffron Chain, drifting from exotic location to exotic location, getting into and out of trouble, and living a wasteful life that did nothing useful for anyone. But the Pontelaeus family's patience with this wayward son was not infinite, and after almost a decade of tolerating Savio's indulgences and bankrolling his bad luck, they cut him off. Penniless, he was forced to travel to Arx, where he was expected to make himself useful to Giorgio and to the family. Time in Arx changed some things about Savio, but not all. He remains what most would describe as 'a character,' an eccentric figure who has cultivated a circle of friends and allies of similar uniqueness. He built a reputation as a bard, a skilled performer whose charm and wit could captivate an audience. He even fell in love. During the recent war against Skal'daja, Savio's beloved home city of Tremorus fell under siege. Losses were heavy, including most of his family as well as Ezmeralda, the ruling Marquessa. Her dying wish was that Savio and his brother be ennobled, and so he found himself a newly-minted lord, expected to conform to the standards of the Compact. The burden of neonobility weighs heavily on him following the devastation of the war, but for the sake of his people, it's one he's doing his best to bear.
ple, it's one he's doing his best to bear. +
Born into the very bottom rung of nobility …
Born into the very bottom rung of nobility, his parents are landless distant cousins of minor pastoral barons, who lived on the patience of their kin, so long as they pitched in when the time for harvest came. Tarrant and his sister Tessa grew up in other people's houses, taught never to give offense to their hosts. With little of their own, the boy grew up desperate to win wealth and respect by the only honest path open to him: knighthood and tournament. It was an ambitious plan, but as a new-made knight he lost all too often, each defeat an expense he could ill afford. The young cavalier found greater success in errantry, chasing bandits and lawbreakers, doing deeds of arms whenever another knight crossed his path, often as a mystery knight with a blank shield and surcoat. Yet such occupations brought him little wealth, and the pleas from his family to settle down and see to the harvest never stopped. When word arrived of the Siege of Arx, Tarrant was distraught that he had been harvesting wheat while the greatest battle of his age was being fought. He was further distraught to learn that several of his distant kin had died in glorious battle against evil incarnate. He wished to rush across the continent too join the next battle, but such a trip was expensive and the war was already over. Besides, the planting season was close. Months later, his parents were informed that a third cousin they'd never met had died in a foolhardy charge, leaving them with the slight possibility of a claim on his land. While mother and father were content to watch the crops grow, rather than press an uncertain claim, Tarrant and his sister were not so content, and by hook or crook scrounged the silvers needed to travel to Arx to press their family's claim.
avel to Arx to press their family's claim. +
Born into thralldom in the Mourning Isles, …
Born into thralldom in the Mourning Isles, freedom has been a mixed blessing for Mimi. Yes, she now is a free citizen of the Compact, with all of the rights and protections that entails, that is true. However, she is now alone. She isn't sure which initiative to buy the bonds of child thralls was the one that freed her. She just knows that her parents did everything in their power to put her forward as one of the children to be freed. Once freed, she had no living relatives to take her in and she was too old for most people to consider adoption, so after a fair bit of shuffling from one charitable organization to another, she spent her formative years in an orphanage in Setarco. There, she discovered her talent for drawing and painting, quickly discovering she could make a few coins here and there sketching portraits. Now that she is of age, she has decided to make her way to Arx to see what she might be able to accomplish in the capitol.
ight be able to accomplish in the capitol. +
Born just a few minutes after her twin sis …
Born just a few minutes after her twin sister, Amarantha had a companion since birth. As children, the pair were inseparable--despite occasional disagreements. They did everything together, often with one twin dragging the other along due to different ideas of "entertainment". Amarantha would begrudgingly trail after her sister while out exploring nature and going on adventures. Astraea would sit around and listen to her sister puzzle out lyrics for her songs or accompany her to party after party. The two found an easy compromise in Amarantha's love for the sea. While Astraea poked around in tide pools or examined the odd piece of sea glass, Amaranatha would walk through the waves. There was nothing she loved more than singing to the ocean, amidst the wind and faint spray of sea. It's where she would clear her head after fights and where she would sit on the rocks and write lines of poetry. It was little surprise that eventually, Amarantha would be proposed to on that same shore she'd grown up alongside. But that was much later, when she was eighteen and had traded childhood games for the thrill of noble parties and politics. A Redrain noble, some well to do man from the Sanna family had come to Granato to court Amarantha. A flurry of letters, wine, and late nights in marble floored ballrooms later and they were married. Everyone had thought them a darling couple! He had grounded her while Amarantha brought a smile to the once dour man's lips. All was well when the new couple headed back to the north. That happiness would be short lived, A year and 3 months into the marriage, Amarantha's husband fell victim to a hunting accident. She was left a wealthy widow without a husband or child to her name. Many expected her to return home and remarry but in an odd twist, Amarantha spent the next 2 and a half years in mourning. She allowed no guests bar her twin and other siblings. It was only in the last few months that the widow returned to a semi-regular social life and by her sister's invitation, accompanied her to Arx.
ster's invitation, accompanied her to Arx. +
Born just twenty minutes after his sister …
Born just twenty minutes after his sister Juliana, a fact which she rarely lets him forget, Sebastian had the life of wealth and privilege any young lord could come to expect in Setarco. As he grew into a life of opulent but dull comfort, he felt listless and was left craving intellectual stimulation and deeper sensations, and discovered he had two passions. He enjoyed the act of creating artistically, controlling a piece and molding it into haunting works to evoke precisely the right emotions from precisely the right people. Perhaps even more than that first passion, he was intrigued so deeply by what motivated people that saw his art. What made them experience joy, sorrow, wonder, or rage. He studied their quirks, their dreams and goals, and how to manipulate and evoke precisely the right response with his art... and then his words... and then his actions. They were art, after all, and so many could be so much better if they were clay under his hands. Inevitably, in many cases, he'd be captivated with some commoner woman and see what it took for her to not just love him, but worship him, before casting her away as another experiment. His callousness had the family spending a small fortune to keep covering up these dramatic scandals of broken individuals left in his wake, as well as moving him from one southern court to the next until the pressure had died down some. As such, he spent a good deal of his time outside of major cities, and while his sister often accompanied him, he would often return to his first passion in art. He would never consider himself a master, but the passion and drive was still there, and soon he'd be attracting the interest of individuals with the most interesting flaws that could be sliced away with a word. And so it would begin again. After the last scandal in Setarco, he was sent to Arx, where perhaps his talents would serve the family well, if he could just be controlled. Upon arriving in Arx, Sebastian found the same patterns repeating, and eventually he returned to Setarco for a time, to his studio and to his sculpting, but something had changed. He withdrew from his usual social circles and rumors that the periods of darkness and brooding had grown more frequent. Some other obsession had taken the Pravus Lord, and eventually he gave away all of his sculptures, his work shifting to painting images that he claimed came from dreams and nightmares, dark works that contrasted sharply with those he might have been asked to create by others. Then the call came from Belladonna Pravus to return to Arx. His sister, Juliana, had already traveled ahead of him, and when he put the finishing touches on his last piece, he let go everything from his studio in Setarco, and made his way to Arx for perhaps a new beginning. Quiet. In the time since his return to Arx, certainly he has been seen at social events, rumored to have participated in the retaking of Luciva, and continues to produce art. However, no word of further scandal seems to have followed him. Has he finally been controlled? Has he merely become more subtle and refined since his arrival? Or is it only a matter of time?
arrival? Or is it only a matter of time? +
Born late at the heart of the Oathlands to …
Born late at the heart of the Oathlands to a family of five; his father, a farmer; his mother, a Sergeant and his three sisters, all groomed by said mother for violence, Siegward seemed destined to live his life tending to crops by taking his progenitor's role once his father's back gave. And gave it did. When he was twelve, indeed. For his youngest, older sister was already twenty-one the day he was born and his mother a few years shy of retiring with a comfortable pension after over twenty years of faithful service to Valardin in defense of the Compact's peace. Realizing at fourteen that a life of cleaning ear-rot off of corn wasn't for him, Sieg fled farm life outside the Telmarch and travelled deep East, into the woodlands North of Bastion, closer to the Bonespire than Stoneheart. In here, young Siegward Oberlander found himself in the militia to one of the many Hamlets living precariously close to Abandoned lands, suffering thus yearly raids by the Shav'arvani. For many years in this town, he took no active part in the conflict- having arrived at the age of fourteen, months shy of fifteen, the Captain at the time barred him from the fighting. Instead, he served as Squire-equivalent to him and was trained beyond the teachings of his mother. Siegward took naturally to violence, and quickly rose through the ranks under what many felt was favoritism from the man that had groomed him from the start. A battle, however, against the Abandoned sadly soon robbed his Captain of his aging life, and a schism with an inept superior eventually spiraled out of control, resulting in a relegation to a deeper outpost in the North; a place grimly nicknamed "Desolate Point", for obvious reasons. Being sent to one of the richest provinces of the Compact to one of the poorest and most war-ravaged was clearly a punishment, but Siegward welcomed the change. He hoped that competent leadership and a steady stream of purposeful action would await him at this new post. Fighting against the Shav'arvani, Siegward took part in drills where the Knights surveying them wouldn't be content until their swords and shields felt like natural extensions of their own bodies. He lived beneath unconventional leadership styles, and saw plentiful change in officers due to the high mortality rate amongst them. Eventually, the Abandoned marched on the dwindling muster of his garrison. Siegward's force was regimented on the western flank of the front line, forming an impenetrable wall against the tribal forces they opposed. As the battle dragged on, it looked as if the Grayson troops sensed victory and fought with extra frenzy to that end. But then Siegward caught sight of a berserking behemoth at the heart of the melee, leading his surrounding marauders in an untrammeled fury soon made slick with blood. In a freak moment their eyes locked, the Barbarian grinned, and charged at him through his maniple whole with axe in each hand, killing all that stood in the way. Before Siegward's head was unceremoniously chopped off his shoulders by him, a fellow soldier pushed him out of the way, his own soul selflessly given for his. Eventually, the Grayson forces prevailed and the Compact was victorious, but it was a pyrrhic accomplishment for Siegward. Those who served in his shield wall had perished, and he emerged as a lone survivor. Distraught and with tattered spirits, Siegward applied for leave, wishing to quit military life and simply head for home. He was denied, but taking pity on his plight an officer instead put him up for an introduction to the Iron Guard, in Arx, to once more serve under the Griffin. And so Siegmard did as he was told, packed up and went South once more, leaving the cold behind. Until Winter again, he reckons.
ld behind. Until Winter again, he reckons. +
Born of Grimhall and married into Darkwate …
Born of Grimhall and married into Darkwater, neither of the Houses which claimed the loyaly of Lord Wulfrum had particularly sunny reputations. This was fine as Wulfrum did not grow up a sunny lad nor become a particularly optimistic Lord in his maturity. Born outside of the ruling line Wulfrum was raised in the traditional customs of the Mourning Isles. He was one of many, not yet proven to be worthy of his House. Even at a young age the man had a competitive streak leading to confrontations with cousins and siblings. It showed his ambition but such unlordly behaviour was soon 'corrected' leading to less boasting and shoving to more productive means of competitiveness. Eventually Wulfrum was old enough to sail, to fight, to prove his worth to Grimhall! Only to be selected for a political marriage to Lira Darkwater after returning from a successful subjugation of shavs and boats laden with thralls. Despite the surprise young Wulfrum found appeal in House Darkwater. Not only was Lady Lira Darkwater everything one would expect of an Isle Lady but Darkwater itself had a history of harrying the Saffron Chain and 'unexplained' shav attacks on passing vessels. It was a place that Wulfrum would settle into nicely and so he did for years with the most notable events being the death of his wife during the birth of his son Leiras Darkwater followed some time later by the razing of Darkwater's Reach. Lord Wulfrum Darkwater has come to Arx with a summons from Countess Carita Darkwater on the eve of Crusade with an Eurusi flotilla approaching Arvani waters.
Eurusi flotilla approaching Arvani waters. +
Born of a union between Blackram and Velen …
Born of a union between Blackram and Velenosa, Cerys is a strange marriage of Oathlands honor and martial strength and Lycene sensibility and and morality. Raised in Velenosa through childhood, she was sent to foster at Blackram through her teen years, taking to the martial training with an ease of natural aptitude. By the time she was returned, the training had gotten under her skin and she insisted on continuing with it alongside the more traditional social graces and tutoring of a Velenosan Princess. She took part in each of the major battles over the years, veteran of both the SIlent War and again for the Gyre, the latter earning her a Knighthood in the Lyceum that she is inordinately proud of. After that accomplishment, she started to turn her eye towards explanding her knowledge of 'knightly skills', once more visiting family in the Oathlands to tutor under some of the more well-known knights. It was on the return from one such trip that Cerys was introduced to Dimitri Pravus during an event being held. It was fascination at first sight for the both of them. After a bit of a whirlwind courtship, and with the blessing of both Houses, she married the man she had deemed worthy (and who was able to put up with her intensity). Travelling to Arx with her new husband seems the perfect end to their honeymoon and start to their new life together.
moon and start to their new life together. +
Born of common stock, Myira spent a good d …
Born of common stock, Myira spent a good deal of her youth with her family in the south, learning to keep a house, to cook and clean, to sea and mend and every other thing she'd need to be a good wife one day. But being a good wife and settling down to have a husband and children didn't sit well with the girl. So at the age of 17 she left her home and fled to the capital of Arx where she went into service, first working as a house maid and then a lady's maid for a merchant's family. It was only recently that she came into what she considers the most gracious of circumstances--being a maid for the Lady Isolde Velenosa. This is her chance to truly prove her worth and to perhaps move up in the world. She cares for her family, of course, but she left them behind when she came north. If she never sees them again, it doesn't bother her. Much.
s them again, it doesn't bother her. Much. +
Born of the Crovane line in the far north, …
Born of the Crovane line in the far north, Aodhan was born and bred to fight, or so he would tell someone. He was a gentle child, but don't let it fool you: he could brawl as well as the other kids, if not better. He especially got into many good fights with his cousin Asger, as it strengthened their bond as family. Despite this, as a child he was always the one to want to mend wounds, rather than cause them. Thankfully, he grew out of that trend. While he was still gentle as a man, he loved to fight. HE loved to train. He loved to win. He would brave the harsh winters and even volunteer to fight hostile Abandoned just to test and improve his skills. As he grew older, his sense of pride and honor officially arrived, growing a deep love for his family. To him, nothing was more important. He serves his family proudly, while all the while wanting to constantly prove himself as a true Crovane. Little did he know, his adventure was just beginning...
know, his adventure was just beginning... +
Born of the North, Tomas's family came to …
Born of the North, Tomas's family came to Arx quietly enough and made their lives. When young Tomas learned about some of the rest of his family, though, he expressed a strong desire to return to the lands of his forebears. Repeated refusal did little to dissuade him, and eventually he managed to steal away. He was not, at that time, particularly skilled at survival outside of a city, so it was very fortunate that a band of Ravashari found him when they did...and even more fortunate that they were sympathetic to his heartfelt appeal. It may have been luck, or may have been total invention, that the group boasted two aunts, an uncle, and various cousins to him. Either his parents had been trying to hide this from him, or it was made up to excuse his presence; either way, he ended up spending some time with these people and growing close to them. Eventually, it didn't matter much if they were related, because they treated each other as if it were a fact. He never found other relations in the travels of his band of benefactors, though he did learn things. When his group chose to stay in one place for an extended time, Tomas was prompted to return to the city. He had a feeling, and he would have to pursue it, to see if it really was the right choice. He bid his family farewell and set out, perhaps unwisely on foot, towards the city of Arx. After some close calls, a possibly portentious dream or two (but maybe just less-than-fresh food), and some soul-searching, he finally returned to the grand city he had called home for several years in his younger days. Now he knew enough to get by alone, but maybe he would be able to find his parents and talk to them. Or, maybe not.
s parents and talk to them. Or, maybe not. +
Born of the Sea. At least, that is what Ce …
Born of the Sea. At least, that is what Cerelia would say of herself when asked of her past. The Pontelaeus family is that of wealthy bankers and traders, often braving the waters of the Saffron Chain, braving trade routes that run the risk of slipping inadvertently into interhouse wars between the various Abandoned Clans. It is on one such ship that Cerelia was born. It was a stormy night and the sea was angry, so many of the sailors who were present that night would say. The waves were rising high and the ship they all sailed upon was being pitched to and fro, in danger of capsizing when a bolt of lightning struck and severed the mast in twain. Her mother, the ship's First Mate, had ignored counsel from the healers in Tremorus that her baby would not wait to the end of the voyage which she had deemed too valuable to postpone. So it was that in the peak of the storm that she would go into labor. The ship was drifting listless upon the raging storm tossed sea, and no help was to be found for miles. Doomed to sink, at least that is what the crew of the ship believed, it was sudden providence when down below Cerelia's mother screamed at the peak of her delivery and a sudden calm fell eerily upon the waters as Cerelia made her way into the world and drew her first breath. The ship ran aground on a deserted island, and there the crew would live in relative ease for two weeks until another Pontelaeus rescue ship would find them. At least, if you believed the legends of the Saffron Chain, that is what you would hear. Cerelia's younger years would drift by with a relative lack of complication. Like any child, she was good in certain studies, and rubbish at others. Like her cousin, Savio, she would show little interest at all in the family business. But where she excelled was upon the waters. From schooner to caravel, Cerelia had a gift at sailing and navigating upon the waves, and as she entered into her late teens the sea is where she would spend the majority of her time. She took the helm of trading vessels when the positions presented themselves to her. When they did not, she would take out other vessels, always as if there was something out on those waters to be found, some mystery to plumb. Sometimes she would even offer her services to Sabriel, soon becoming fast friends and joining the Vice-Admiral upon the seas. When Leporidae bent the knee and joined the Compact she was as skeptical as many of her kin, but when Giorgio sent word back to the family of the wonders to be found in Arx, Cerelia would find herself being sent soon after Savio with orders from the family to join the two Pontelaeus brothers and help where she might in their pursuits in Arx.
where she might in their pursuits in Arx. +
Born on a small island in the Darkwater de …
Born on a small island in the Darkwater deeps, Krarstin has seen some of the greatest terrors the world can offer, and survived them. She spent her youth as a bannerman to a local warlord, before rising to be the Jarla (a chief title) of the Tidelord tribe. After the Darkwater Deeps got to chaotic, she gathered as much of her tribe as could travel and set sail with a small flotilla and a relic of a warship, determined to escape the clutches of the fell forces that consumed her homeland. Despite being pursued to the very edge of the Darkwater by the forces of the Gyre, she managed to shepherd nearly a hundred survivors into the Saffron Sea. Eventually found by a Kennex flagged ship and brought to Arx, she has sworn fealty to Ford Kennex, despite no longer having a tribe near large enough to justify a title. She offers her services in return for the settlement and good treatment of her remaining tribe, most of which calls her 'Grandmother' as well as Jarla.
calls her 'Grandmother' as well as Jarla. +
Born on a smaller vineyard on the outskirt …
Born on a smaller vineyard on the outskirts of Northern Lenosia, Amador knew he wanted something beyond the simple life of a vintner. He had seen the crowded streets of the trade hub and basked in the beauty of the ladies of court in all of their silk and gems. He had watched the shadows in the alleyways and listened to the whispers behind the veil of the city's grandeur. It was at the age of fourteen that he decided he could find a space between the two. A conduit between nobility and the reality of what the world really is. He could be that figure. So after much debate in the Rafael home, it was the grace of his mother Almea that swayed his father Ortego's stubbornness and their son was allowed to venture forth to one of the many smaller courtier schools in the area. It was here that Amador first met Gaspar Velenosa, a life changing event that little did the young Lenosian know would change the path of his life forever. The two young men were surprisingly quick friends despite the vast differences in their personalities. While Amador found humor in Gaspar's tangential nature, Gaspar in turn found a solace in Amador's stoic foundation. So, when Gaspar invited him along on an expense paid tour of the kingdoms under the pitch of expanding Amador's cultural understanding making him the better courtier... Amador couldn't refuse. A few years were spent in each other's company and their relationship thrived. Amador was able to rein in Gaspar to ensure the young prince was attentive to his studies and Gaspar dragged Amador out to a wide variety of social events and more or less served as his connection to the world of nobility. They finally parted ways during the tour of the Mourning Islands. Almea had fallen ill and Amador returned to Lenosia to spend her final moments with her. After Almea's passing, Amador remained on the vineyard to assist his father during the mourning period and go over the family's financials to be sure their fiscal health remained intact during those dark times. Finally the day came where the vineyard was managed and Amador's siblings had become more integrated into the working life of the vineyard. A letter was sent to Gaspar in search of work and it just so happened Emma Velenosa was in need of a new assistant. Amador took up his role with gusto, seeing to all of the lady's day to day needs and fielding her endlessly busy schedule. After a few years of service, Amador decided the great walls of Arx was his next step and so he reached out to his former schoolmate once again this time to see if the Prince (now the Marquis-Consort of House Tessere) was aware of any employment that might suit Amador in Arx. He wasn't surprised that Gaspar responded quickly, their friendship sustained despite the distance, however when it was mentioned that Gaspar himself was in need of help Amador gave a minor pause. He knew the enigmatic Marquis. He knew of his frivolity and charismatic inclinations. He knew what it would be like to be chasing after Gaspar's heels to gently steer him through the social arena. The pause was brief though and a letter returned to his soon to be employer of his resignation to Emma and the acceptance of the new position. And so to Arx he went...
the new position. And so to Arx he went... +
Born outside of the protection of the Crow …
Born outside of the protection of the Crown and the City, Niro does not speak often of the life out there - other than it was harsh and short for many, and that he considers himself one of the luckier ones. He received knowledge of the art of Smithing, and it was with that knowledge that he kept himself alive, by being useful. His escape from that life is one that he counts as a blessing, and one of the new Prodigals, he seeks to establish himself in a land of relative peace and freedom.
f in a land of relative peace and freedom. +
Born poor, raised poor, and currently poor …
Born poor, raised poor, and currently poor. That's most of the Lower Boroughs for you. Most go hungry, some starve. It's the wonderful city of commerce and wealth! But for those who desire to rise up from the muck, it's a difficult trek, and a dangerous one at that. Asher, for his part, has thought to make his way by joining with the Grayhope family. At least, working for them. In whatever they need. Secrets and information can be a dark business, and all the muck passes through the shade of the Lower Boroughs.
s through the shade of the Lower Boroughs. +
Born second son of one of the branches of …
Born second son of one of the branches of the Ashford family, Killian was forever in some form of trouble. Mischievous, adventurous and entirely unlike his older brother he seemed to always have a knack for trouble and for talking his way out of the worst of it. Of course, the shadow of his older brother ever loomed, and after a particularly troublesome prank might have reflected poorly upon his older sibling he was sent away to squire in Bisland. After being Knighted, a brief return home was all it took to make it clear that his family, or at least his older brother, would far prefer he spend time 'abroad' as a Knight Errant. Of course, being an Ashford, he took that to mean that it would be preferred if he went to find out what was over that next hill and help out along the way. He has wandered surprisingly far for his relatively young age, seeking out the places where the myths that were his escape as a youth might hide in the world.
escape as a youth might hide in the world. +
Born the bastard son of a smuggler and a t …
Born the bastard son of a smuggler and a thug in the slums of Setarco, Lucio never knew his father, and lost his mother when he was five to disease. His life had not been easy to that point, but suddenly became much harder. He lived his life largely on the streets, kept alive by rapidly developing keen observational skills, and a penchant for evoking compassion. He likely would still be eking out an existence in those very slums were it not for the gift of a beautiful voice. He began singing for his supper when he was only seven, and, by the time he was nine, his angelic voice had attracted enough notice to reach the ears of Marco Peduzzi, a singer in the court of Nino Pravus. Marco, astonished by the boy's voice, brought him to court and personally undertook his training. Life in the Pravus Court was very different from life on the streets, and though he enjoyed the luxuries it brought him, he also missed the freedom. In spite of the square meals and nice clothes, Marco Peduzzi was a fearsome taskmaster, and kept Lucio on a short leash, managing every hour of his day with lessons in singing, various instruments, court etiquette, and history. On the rare occasions when Lucio managed to steal away and hide from his lessons, he was found, beaten, and given kitchen chores in addition to his studies. When he managed to get a day off for exceptionally good behavior or some surprising success, he would immediately head back to the slums to see old friends and to listen to gossip and the popular music of the taverns. The mist frightening moment of Lucio's life occurred when his voice broke in adolescence. Marco looked at him sternly, rolled his shoulders, and said, simply, "You will work in the kitchens for one year. At the end of that time, I will listen to you sing again, and not before. If you can still amaze me, you may continue your training. If not, we will send you back to the slums." It was not until then that Lucio realized how much he had come to value the art of singing, and the mentoring of Marco. He spent months terrified that his adult voice would be mediocre, and when the time came to sing for Marco once more, he was sweating profusely. He opened his mouth...and a beautiful tenor voice emerged from the cocoon of his adolescence. From that point on, Lucio's training with Marco became even more intense, and the teenager was frequently sent away on mysterious errands designed to test his loyalty and commitment as much as his ability to sing and play. With every passing day, he became a more skilled performer. It was, therefore, with some surprise that, shortly after a masterful performance ending his career as a journeyman under his master, Lucio was released from the Pravus court. Though there was great gossiping about why, the simple answer offered was that House Pravus already had a master singer in the person of Marco Peduzzi. Since then, Lucio has traveled from noble house to noble house, taking jobs where he can, but never settling down for permanent employment. He even plays in taverns from time to time when coin grows especially low. Now, perhaps sensing that there are greater opportunities to the north, he has left the city states of the Lyceum to come to Arx, seeking fame and fortune amongst the gathered elite of the Compact.
amongst the gathered elite of the Compact. +
Born the daughter of Leticia Pravus and - …
Born the daughter of Leticia Pravus and - well, that's complicated. It seems Ramona was meant to be the third daughter of Leticia and Raphael (along with Vivana Pravus and Lianne Malespero), but somewhere along the way the truth slipped out. Ramona was not Raphaels child. She was the daughter of a commoner, the result of an illicit affair. And while those closest to Leticia were aware of the scandal, the news never drifted out of the Pravus household. Instead, what was made known publicly, was an unfortunate miscarriage and the wholly unrelated arrival of a distant cousin, who Leticia would be raising. This, surely, was the result of a compromise between mother and not-father. And so Leticia's life was a confusing one. She was raised more as a household servant than a Pravus. She was, on and off, loved and reviled by both her "aunt" Leticia and "uncle" Raphael. It was confusing, being part of the family, but not. Being an outsider on the inside. Existing in that liminal state, neither here nor there. When she finally turned ten, she was packed up and shipped off to the Oathlands, where she would study the Faith. She'd miss her "cousins", but she was finally given a clear place to exist, and that was a great relief. For the past eight years, she's studied with the priests and Godsworn in the Oathlands. While she was decidedly intelligent, and she could recite all the necessary texts, she never cared for the "mythology" of the Faith. She was far more focused on the practical application of Vellichor's knowledge, Petrichor's lessons in agriculture, Mangata's ship-building... you get the idea. Finally, now, after completing her education and swearing her oaths, she's been sent to Arx to find her "cousins".
's been sent to Arx to find her "cousins". +
Born the eldest of four daughters to Lord …
Born the eldest of four daughters to Lord Augustine Blackshore and Lady Priyan Ashghar, Quinley quickly became the protector to her sisters. For many in the Mourning Isles censured the young lord for marrying an exiled Eurusi noblewoman who had fled her homeland. Of course a distant cousin to the current Baron Blackshore, there was little to dispute of a unlanded lord who chose to marry without advantage. Being financially cut off from the family for his indiscretion, this small unit learned to make do with less. Luckily, his choices didn't cause the Blackshore family to abandon him all together. However, many of the cousins would be quick to remind Quinley and her sisters that they were poorer relations. Quinley grew cynical of society's expectations, choosing to follow her own passions at a young age. She pushed against barriers in her teen years to learn the sword and sail despite many urging her to take more traditional roles in law or diplomacy. Not having a son, Augustine chose to impart his own naval expertise on his eldest, placing emphasis on precision and excellence. She drilled harder and longer than any of her peers, knowing that any weakness would be a slur towards her gender. While she did study a few courses on law, it was more out of a sense of justice. She had no interest in sitting in the courtroom. Finding commissions on a ship wasn't easy within Thrax, but Quinley's persistence paid off when an old family friend within the Thrax navy took her under his wing. She worked hard to earn her ranks, making sure those family bonds didn't outweigh her own worth and over time her ruthlessness gained her notice. She would visit Maelstrom from time to time to see her family, even sending coin home to help with their expenses. While she never had the funds to gain her own ship, her actions made her valuable enough to overlook the flaws of birth. Even though it had been more than a decade since she had stepped foot on Blackshore soil, it was a shock to hear of her heritage coming to destruction. The second blow was her father's stroke, leaving behind a grieving widow and three daughters. His death ended the Thrax arrangement with their family. Quinley could no longer ignore her obligations and once she collected them from Maelstrom, she set off to Arx to meet the new baroness. Quinley impressed her with her fine military skills and quickly convinced her to join her ministers, focusing on Productivity. Never one to be idle, she took additional duties with the Iron Guard, seeing the need for justice for those that had less in the city.
stice for those that had less in the city. +
Born the first son of a cadet branch of th …
Born the first son of a cadet branch of the Leporidae nobility, Markos always had a wild streak even as a child. Quick to get in trouble or to find himself in mischief, the young lord simply always had a penchant for finding himself beneath the disapproving gaze of his mother. But then again, the quiet chuckles and hair ruffles his father would give when his mother wasn't looking was hardly the disciplinary action to set him on the 'right' path. Markos never had much care for academics or the finer points of etiquette. He would much rather spend his time watching the Arakkoan feats of strength and athletic competitions, often at the expense of his studies. It is perhaps little wonder then, that as he grew older he naturally gravitated toward such things. Archery, methods for surviving the wilds, and studies of the various animals that inhabit Dawnsend would all come to the young lord as easily as if they were ingrained within his flesh and bones. In his late teens Markos would sneak out of the city for the first time, determined to find adventure since it wasn't obviously wasn't going to find him behind the city walls. He never did forget the rush of adrenaline as he crept past the city guard and out into the undergrowth surrounding the city... or the bruises he would have after a rather unfortunate misstep sent him tumbling and sliding down a steep hill to crash into a stony creek. He learned so much on that first trip, aided by the fact that he got lost in the jungle for four days and was forced to learn to survive amid predators and the other dangers that await around every corner in the untamed wilderness of Dawnsend. But that feeling that came to him, the feeling of belonging, is something that would light a fire beneath him, a fire that couldn't be quenched even beneath the lashing his father gave him when he would stumble back into Tremorus four days later, cut and bruised by alive with purpose. And thus has Markos spent the last several years of his life, ranging the wilds beneath the shadow of the mountain, seeking adventure and the promise of danger wherever it might be found. Working as a liaison between the noble family Leporidae and the various barbarian tribes found in the region, a guide through the wilds, and as an animal handler for the family, Markos has lived a happy life of his own making. It is this thirst for adventure that brings him after his family members to Arx, seeking what new wonders might be found within a suddenly much wider world.
found within a suddenly much wider world. +
Born the illegitimate son of a sibling of …
Born the illegitimate son of a sibling of Arn Telmar thirty five years ago. He was raised away from the bustling compound of the noble family. By his pre-teen years he was a strong, fast lad - adept at running and loving time in the woods, along creeks and staying over night under the stars. At eighteen and a full grown man he joined the Iron Guard, serving for 15 yrs with distinction. Retiring as a Captain under his Uncle Everard - although he didn't know the truth, then. He retired to join Tobias Telmar's Crimson Blades, a small battalion of sell swords. Hired as the sergeant of the scout platoon, he's served in that stead since then. An acknowledged expert in tracking, archery and combat with his axe, he's found the new vocation exciting. In the last year his mother died; with that came the truth of his heritage. An investigation, research and discussion later he was recognized as the illegitimate heir to his father and enobled in the Telmar family. Now Lord Ywaine, he's spent the last year trying to adjust himself to his new lifestyle. His younger cousin Tobias expects no special treatment of his older cousin and Ywaine asks for none, used to making it on his own by now.
none, used to making it on his own by now. +
Born the middle child in the frozen wastel …
Born the middle child in the frozen wasteland of Giant's Reach, Kutazer seems liked from birth he was destined to be a warrior. Unlike his older brother, Cirroch who was trained in the ways of being a ruler, he was trained exclusively in the ways of being a warrior. It helps that his disposition ever since he was a child did not lead him to a world social grace, he finds he is much better at handling arguments with overwhelming aggression and less diplomatic measures. Due of an incident in his teen years, where he had to protect some defenseless villagers from some cannibalistic raiders. That is when he realized he wanted to aide in protecting the weak and unarmed. This was the push that helped him to realize that without those who are just and strong, the world will crumble and fall victim to all the evil within. As he grew older, so did the rivalry between the brothers and his protective ways of his younger sister Tila. And now he hears what all is occurring within the city of Arx from his oldest brother Cirroch, he decides that it is time for him to finally make his appearance and mark in history.
y make his appearance and mark in history. +
Born the middle child of Prince Rodric Gra …
Born the middle child of Prince Rodric Grayson and the Lady Daniela Bisland, Aiden Grayson was raised alongside siblings Ainsley and Ailys in Bastion. From the start Aiden was a quiet child and often considered the 'odd duck' by the others, adult and child alike. Friendship wasn't easy for a child who would barely manage to speak a word under pressure; a problem which often escalated into him becoming a target to be pushed around.
him becoming a target to be pushed around. +
Born the middle child of three to Velmund …
Born the middle child of three to Velmund Helianthus and Alvilda Helianthus (nee Wesgard), he grew up in Sungreet in the House of his family with many cousins, aunts, and uncles around him. Iosif was always the lone wolf, the deep thinker, and the odd one of that generation's litter and to no one it was more apparent than him. His family indulged him and his brothers would tell you that it was because of this precocious, solitary nature that his mother adored him the most. If it was true though, she would never let on. It was this nature that led him to find his camaraderie in the kennels his family kept. From a young age, he found more of a kinship with those dogs than most humans he encountered. It was here that he began to learn the basics of animal husbandry and by the time he was barely a man, he was a master of the art. Which is of course, why they let him take his dogs out on the water with him. While he was a good and adept sailor and reaver, affording him the opportunity to sail alongside more than a few well known Thraxian reavers, it was his command of the dogs as soldiers that made him stand out. He could head out alone with his dogs on a small boat with only a sword and a pair of oars and could overtake a large ship. (And to be honest, the dogs were a whole lot less trouble than most Thraxian sailors and were far more welcome in most establishments they stopped at, besides). Recently, the Mourning Isles has passed leadership of House Thrax from Donrai to Victus and with him, Victus has brought no small amount of social upheaval. Not that he cared for politics even in the slightest, of course, but he supported the Compact in the Silent War, then the Gyre War. He never expected to be in a position where he would be able to influence politics even within his family but as fortune would have it, his mother approached him with the opportunity to marry Sanya Grimhall. The match would promote peace between Grimhall and Helianthus and help to formally cement the relationship between the two Houses, as it began to look like the Mourning Isles might see civil war. He rose to the challenge. After a three month courtship, they were married. Then, as they were establishing themselves in Grihem's Point and introducing his parents to hers, the now famous Battle of Sungreet took place. His cousin Duke Ivan Helianthus, and brother, Jovian Helianthus, lost their lives. It took him some convincing but he persuaded his parents to stay at Grihem's Point in the relative safety of neutrality where together they could still affect positive change in the Isles. The tides of change have come again, as they always do, and now he and his new wife, Sanya, rise to new challenges on the horizon ahead.
se to new challenges on the horizon ahead. +
Born the oldest daughter to her father, Fe …
Born the oldest daughter to her father, Fearghas, and her mother, Siofra. While her father was built like a bear, her mother was the taller of two, lithe and willowy. An elegance to her mother, a natural with a spear, and a warrior at heart, where her father was a shaman of the tribe, seeing to the spiritual health and well being of them. It was no surprise to really any one that Meabh took after her mother, and assumed the role of protector of her two younger siblings. Meabh grew up a bit wild, and very fierce, learning the skills of a warrior from her mother, as well as her aunt, both women fierce warriors in their own rights, and amazing role models, at least in Meabh's eyes. Her father tried many times to get Meabh more interested in the more spiritual side, but she always grew restless during her father's lessons. Not that she didn't want to learn, or didn't like what he had to teach, but rather she strained at having to learn them in a simple hut, when there was a whole world out there to explore. As such, she had a tendency to wander off, into the wilds to explore and learn on her own. At first her family worried over her random disappearances. Soon, however, they learned that she would eventually make her way back home to them. Often with new little treasures she had found during her little adventures, usually a new animal friend. And a new scar or two. Never really explaining the scars. To her father's surprise perhaps, those same explorations helped do what all of his lessons could not, and awakened in her a spiritualism and respect for the clan's shamanic traditions that she holds dear to this day. At first when Clearlake bent the knee, Meabh remained in the North. Now however, her wanderlust has brought her south to explore, and eventually into Arx itself, where she seeks to help protect her family here, as she did back home.
ect her family here, as she did back home. +
Born the only son of Bernh Valardin after …
Born the only son of Bernh Valardin after years of attempted conception, to say that Aerwan was considered a blessing from the divine would be an understatement. A celebration was had on the day of his birth, offerings were made, praise was given, and a prince's get was watched over like circling hawks by the family staff as he grew up into a young boy, especially when try as they might over his formative years father and mother found themselves incapable of producing a spare to their heir. For the young Aerwan, life was an adventure, and there was no grander aspiration than to be a valorous knight upholding the honor of his family and bringing glory to the Pantheon - which his father was inclined to encourage - while escaping his minders at every opportunity to hare off and recreate such escapades with whomever he could wrangle into the process. There were no shortage of tutors and trainers to mold and refine the child into a young man capable of doing proud by his father, but that changed with the Tragedy. They were off on holiday during the massacres, and it was a weight that settled heavily on a tender young heart. But where it was the sort of thing that sparked a flame in many to only drill them deeper toward the sword, for Aerwan it had the opposite effect - lost in the malaise of mourning kin, the youth began to question his path and his purpose. There were always going to be times and places where arms were the only option.. but this was their result. What other options were there? It was while trying to find these answers that Aerwan began truly diving deeper into looking at the Pantheon as a broader picture to life instead of his younger zeal solely for Gloria, inquiring with priests of all of the divine, and in the process took his first steps on a different path, even if it wasn't what he would have hoped for. There was never any shortage of work to be done for the Faith, and so he spread whatever help he could advocate for with his family to the causes that called to him for action. There was still honor and glory to be found, but solace, too. The canonizing of the Lost was a particularly special time for the young man, and in the years since he has come to ponder on and search for more of Aion in particular, but also investigating other beliefs with an open, critical eye while rooted in his own faith. His own wandering pursuits to find knowledge and provide relief have recently come to a halt, returning for the first time in many years to Arx at the call of the Dragons to deal with the Skal'dajans. For all that he may be incapable in warfare, he has experience providing a helping hand - and there may be no shortage of need for those.
here may be no shortage of need for those. +
Born the only son of the Marquis Lyron' de …
Born the only son of the Marquis Lyron' dear, widowed sister, Amir lead a privileged life. His mother was sickly but doting, making sure that her son had only the best tutors and wanted for nothing. And when she died, he was taken into Lyron' care and raised alongside the his youngest daughter. For all intents and purposes, the two children were treated like siblings--sharing playmates, eating dinner together, and reading eachother's diaries aloud to friends. As a young teen, Amir's raw talent with a blade quickly became apparent. So much so, that the Marquessa-Consort, arranged for him to be tutored in martial subjects by the House's previous Sword. Youthful cockiness and pride hampered his early years of training but by the time he was in his early twenties, Amir had learned to temper his emotions and master his movements. Even if the old Sword could still knock him on his ass. He was biding his time, hoping to be appointed the new house Sword as his mentor aged, when Marquis Lyron passed. A storm had taken the life of his uncle and the entirety of his ship to the ocean floor. The new Marquis was quick to stir up the ranks, putting fresh faces in new positions. Including Amir. For the next few years, he would serve as House Melaeris' faithful and occasionally outspoken Sword. Many a white journal was put up decrying the practice of Thralldom or naming and shaming those who mistreated their thralls. Not a single soul was surprised when Amir would later go on to become a disciple of the newly discovered Skald and a Liberator. Or that he supported the reforms on the laws concerning thralls--even if he contested they weren't good enough. Still, even if he objected to many of Thrax's policies, he still fought dutifully for the Great House during the siege of Arx and later during the war against the so called Pirate King.
the war against the so called Pirate King. +
Born the second daughter to a cousin of th …
Born the second daughter to a cousin of the late Duke Edmund Laurent, Lady Lucie's upbringing had all of the trappings one would expect of a ducal house in the Oathlands. She was taught proper etiquette, how not to be embarrassing in court, and how not to draw shame upon herself personally. All in all, a very standard childhood that she did just fine with. But it wasn't in the softer sides of nobility that she excelled but in her martial training. Lucie trained with some of Artshall's best knights and she had a true talent for it from a young age. She could dance circles around the other squires in the sparring ring, nimble and quick, she was also strong and bold. It became a point of pride to take her on in practice, whether you lost or won, because you were going to leave that experience with a number of very colorful bruises. Her upbeat attitude and boundless enthusiasm also made her quite popular in other ways. She displayed a natural disposition toward leadership. She could not only command effectively by making smart and calculated decisions, but people /wanted/ to follow her. They felt a bone deep loyalty to her and by the time she was assigned her own troops, she already had a solid following of knights clamoring to be in her unit. Lucie has since spent the last several years traipsing about the Oathlands with her cadre of knights, fighting with honor and distinction everywhere that she goes. Travelers through Artshall feel a little safer knowing that the Lady Knight Commander of the Laurents is out there, quick to lend a hand with her sword, and even quicker to offer up a drink or a bite of food and a place at her fire.
or a bite of food and a place at her fire. +
Born the second of four children to the Sh …
Born the second of four children to the Shaman of a nomadic tribe of people. He was always a boy of nature, and he took liking to the hunters of the tribe from the time he was old enough to help carry their quivers. Though if ever inquired that's all he really remembers...he calls it a 'Stress induced forgetfulness'. Though what is known is that Jurn Thornhall was a survivor of the Thraxian genocide, and believed to be the sole survivor of his once proud nomadic tribe, though the facts of that are uncertain. He was taken in by house Deepwood as a Prodigal, and has developed himself from his natural adoration for the hunt into being an astounding member of the elite Deepwood Rangers. His attention to detail and committed drive to succeed have elevated him to become an officer of the Rangers and recently requested of his presence in the city of Arx to provide as a liaison for the training of units.
de as a liaison for the training of units. +
Born the second son but fifth born to the …
Born the second son but fifth born to the Napolitano merchant family, he was able to really choose any path he desired for himself. But the natural grace and silver tongue his father had, he inherited and was a naturally born merchant. As he aged, his skills were honed and then opportunity showed its hand. Caer Morien, lands that were newly being broken. He was given the money to set up a business venture there and set off from the city state of Rivincita. Soon arriving within the lands just as Domonico became the new Count of Caer Morien. With cocoa plants thriving on the isles, this business venture is going to be very prosperous.
ss venture is going to be very prosperous. +
Born the second son of Lucas Telmar, Corba …
Born the second son of Lucas Telmar, Corban grew up the nephew of Duke Arn Telmar in the hostile, unwelcoming Duchy of the Telmarch. From an early age, Corban showed an affinity for martial skills, training alongside his cousins Ansel and Tobias, the two treated more like brothers than like cousins, given the common hardship that the three faced under the stern tutelage of the Duke Arn Telmar. After the passing of Lucas Telmar, Corban's mother decided to return to her family to assume a modest station as a deputy minister, leaving the young Telmar to be raised alongside his cousins by Duke Arn and the rest of the Telmars. As a young leader with the Telmarch army, Corban was already a favored captain of the Telmar armsmen, knowing the lord would always be the first sword rushing into the most dangerous frays. He quickly grew a reputation as one of the Telmarch's most capable military commanders, assuming increasing levels of responsibility within the powerful duchy, leading the forces of the Telmar and their vassals to break the shav hordes crashing against the Telmarch fortress walls. Now older, and with years of experience leading men into battle, Corban has come to the city to lend his sword to his family's assistance. With dark times on the horizon, he knows it may well be needed, and he plans to do fulfill his duty to his house.
plans to do fulfill his duty to his house. +
Born the second son of Osmond Nightgold, y …
Born the second son of Osmond Nightgold, younger brother of Duke Neddim Nightgold, Sigurd had a relatively uneventful birth, although it was, of course, celebrated. For it meant that the family line was truly secure on this branch. And that is how young Sigurd was raised, to be a 'sturdy branch' for the family to rest upon. Developing a keen appreciation for the arts of the wilderness and the martial aspects of his duties, he has been, almost since being a toddler, groomed to be a leader of military men. It is hoped that, in time, he may even take his place as leader of his cousin Nadia's armies. To this end, he has been tutored in weaponry, riding, and archery all, as well as command and the responsibility of it. This, and his duties to family and realm, have been drilled into him since he first learned to speak. This has led to a rather outwardly reserved, polite demeanour, but it is merely that, an outward appearance. In his spare time, he enjoys wandering the wilds, and adores wildlife in all forms, particularly dogs, an affection he shares with his younger sister, Signe. Always very close, both as children and now as adults, Sigurd and Signe would often roam the wilds together, the younger sister mimicing his martial and wilderness training to his endless amusement (and occasional annoyance). He is a Man of the North, and thus holds family, independence, and resourcefulness in high esteem. However, his grooming and constant drilling of duty mean he is able to hold his own in polite society as well, but does not conceal his northern roots and is proud of them. He can wear his silks, but it is clear that he prefers the practical over the fine, when given a choice.
ctical over the fine, when given a choice. +
Born the second son of a cadet branch of P …
Born the second son of a cadet branch of Proscipi, Rufio’s younger years were spent in the shadow of his older brother Markos. With only two years separating the two brothers, their younger years saw both the tight bonds of friendship and imagined adventures that one would expect of such close siblings, as well as the strife and competition between the two as both sought to outshine the other, particularly so in the case of Rufio. As they grew into their teenage years and Markos chose to walk his own path in the jungles outside Tremorus, Rufio would instead stay the path and work to prove himself as a proud son of their father. As Rufio entered into his later teen years, he would find himself conscripted into the Tremorus armies, just like every other able bodied citizen of the Saffron city-state. It was here that he would feel that he’d found his true place beyond any other calling in his life. He would spend the next many years of his life remaining in the Tremorus army far after the years required of every citizen, fighting to keep the city-state safe both against barbarian invader that threw themselves senselessly at the impenetrable walls of his home, and abroad in skirmishes with other clans before they bent the knee to the Compact. He proved himself as a distinguished commander in both the War of the Two Queens as well as in the Siege of Tremorus, where the united barbarians and Eurusi Taskmasters of Skal’daja would break the city walls and take the fight into the streets. Willing to die fighting for his home, Rufio fought alongside his countrymen and somehow managed to survive. Promoted to command within the Tremorus army, Rufio has been dispatched to Arx to help his cousins in the Compact’s capital.
help his cousins in the Compact’s capital. +
Born the second, unwanted, son of a minor …
Born the second, unwanted, son of a minor Lyceum family in Lenosia, Zale spent most of his early youth riding horses and goofing around, climbing and later cliff-diving, taking slowly greater risks and staying away from home as long as possible. It wasn't long that he was considered almost unmarriable and given over to the Velenosa military where he earned a position as a scout and, all things being Lyceum, spy. Recently he has been moved to Arx, somewhat against his will, to await further instructions and training from House Velenosa.
ructions and training from House Velenosa. +
Born the seventh and last child of a Count …
Born the seventh and last child of a Count and Countess sworn to House Laurent, Miles Lockton was destined to always finish last or be considered an expendable bargaining chip by parents who already had an heir, a spare, and many more available in the event of tragedy. Eventually becoming a page to one of his family's sworn knights, then a squire, eventually Miles became a knight in his own right. While never the most expert swordsman, Miles was in possession for an affinity for service. Not only to himself or his liege, but to the injured. He comported himself with valor when, as a knight himself, he was in battle with a number of shav'arvani, his own mentor was seriously injured. Not only did Sir Miles Lockton fight off the three shavs who would have no doubt killed the knight who trained him, he hoisted the fully armoured man onto his shoulders and trudged off the battlefield with him to seek immediately attention. At 24 years old, that singular act of valor and dedication drew the attention of the Crown. Which resulted in his invitation to join the King's Own, the royal guard of the Sovereign his or herself. Since that time Sir Miles has witnessed many knights come and go within the King's own, more often than not when they've met their end, yet Sir Miles continues on. Some claim he's unkillable - yet more claim that it's because he's too stubborn and crotchety to die. Some say the gods don't want to deal with his heavy sighs and disappointed frowns. Sir Miles has witnessed a great deal and even tended to the minor injuries of a young Leona Thrax, who herself would one day become a Lord Commander of the King's Own, at the behest of Lord Commander Dayne Valardin. Youth is taking over the King's Own, yet Sir Miles refuses to fade away.
s Own, yet Sir Miles refuses to fade away. +
Born the sole child of Vayla Pravus and Au …
Born the sole child of Vayla Pravus and Augusto Inverno's marriage, Sabrina Inverno was very young when she first showed signs she would be a bright little star in Caina. Extremely intelligent, the young girl would sit on her mother's lap and almost seem to understand the heavy tomes Vayla read so often, dark eyes taking on every word as if she could see the hidden meaning behind every poem, the twist behind every mystery novel. Childhood, however, seemed to distract little Sabrina, and thoughts of books and mystery gave way to dresses, galas and her family, both of them. She would write to Setarco and play with the other young children of Caina, always the soul of any activity she was part of. Wherever she went, even in the dangerous alleys of the Shark-dominated country, Sabrina Inverno was welcomed and beloved. Life was good, for a while, and just as the young woman was fully blossoming, and in the final talks to arrange a marriage with Elonso Pravus, the duke's youngest son, Sabrina appeared to decide it was time for a change yet again. Expensive gowns were turned into a pyre outside her home in Caina, talks of marriage were abruptly shut down, and all letters from the girl would cease for months. Where she was once a beloved, smiling beacon of Caina that uplifted all in her path, Sabrina emerged from her latest metamorphosis a true Shark, and everything in her path was fair game to be criticized, scrutinized or otherwise prodded for falsehoods and weakness. Abrasive as she was in comparison to the sweet girl she had been, however, results were immediate, and after unearthing conspiracies and crime syndicates, the Inverno saw they had lost their bright little star, and gained a sharp-toothed Shark in her stead. That exchange was acceptable to House Inverno, and Sabrina quickly rose within the ranks despite her eccentricities. Now, as the new countess Tyche rises to proeminence, Sabrina takes the opportunity to leave Caina and put some distance between her and that land, all while assisting the countess, and seeing her sister again.
the countess, and seeing her sister again. +
Born the sole fatherless child of the trib …
Born the sole fatherless child of the tribe's most skillful tailor, Rasteon faced many trials as a youth. Having no Father willing to step forth and claim him, he was never granted his second name, and thus doomed to live forever with some small amount of shame. But even worse, as the only child in the tribe with dark hair and eyes, and with no men sporting either trait, he was further ostracized for being the clear result of demonic tampering. Called a demon spawn and a child of ill fates, he was forbidden to play with the other boys, refused all work and activities, and shunned in all communal gatherings. For the first 10 years of his life, the only person willing to show him any kindness was his mother. At the age of ten, Rasteon's mother took ill and died. This would have left him completely alone and without allies, had not the tribe's leader stepped in to adopt the boy. Seeing a great rage growing within him, the chief chose to harness that hate, rather than allowing it to fester. For long years he encouraged the boy in the ways of violence, teaching him patience and cunning, instilling him with discipline and providing him the tools to control his wrath. Wanting to keep him close, he assigned the growing teen the position of bodyguard to himself and his household. For 19 long years Rasteon has been the personal bodyguard for the Volkov family. He has watched Ruslan Volkov grow from an infant to manhood. he was there for the birth of each younger sibling. To the Volkov children he has been a quiet, protective presence ever vigilant and dependable. To the people, however, he is a much different beast. Thought of as the violent attack dog of the chief, he has been responsible for the bloody end of three separate coups, and thwarted no fewer than 13 known attempts at assassination. When he is released upon the public it is never a good thing, and his presence alone is now capable of discouraging all but the most desperate of attempts on the Marquis's life, at least when plotted by those who know the cost.
t when plotted by those who know the cost. +
Born the son of a Grayson man-at-arms and …
Born the son of a Grayson man-at-arms and a knight, Ilvin was a fish out of water early on. He was the second child, and his sister showed every sign of the warrior temperament. Born early and a little undersized, his parents didn't really have the money but hired a wetnurse and a nanny for him that they couldn't really afford to watch him. He was a happy, adventurous baby that grew into a happy, imaginative child, but he found more allure in books and stories and daydreams and songs than he ever did in running around and playing with the other children outside, and because of a tendency towards wheezy lungs, he spent most of his time following the seraph of Bastion around, when he wasn't stealing time in the libraries or listening to the songs and stories of the Devotions of Limerance. His parents were never sure what to do with him. He showed no aptitude or interest in weapons or hunting or outdoor pursuits. He had a head for figures and he liked pages. If you brought him a book, he could entertain himself with it for weeks! It was Ilvin himself who came up with the idea, a solemn thirteen year old with a hint of what would one day become a telltale twinkle in his eye, when he asked his parents about what it took to become a Devotion. Ilvin's education continued. He was ravenous for information but more he was ravenous for human stories. As a teenager, he tried to hear everything without creating a stir or causing problems for others. He became godsworn young, and threw himself into his work. The Faith needs people who are good at figures and can parse sentences as well as it needs people who can listen with an open heart. It was a good choice of profession for him. He did not choose Limerance as first in his heart lightly; it was more that he loved all the gods, but the devotion that needed him most, and his good humor and his complacent legal understanding and his open, open heart, always seemed to be Limerance. When he became Archlector of Limerance, it was not so much the culmination as any great ambition as the fact that the job had become open, somebody needed to do it, and it almost seemed like a foregone conclusion that it should be Ilvin. He stepped up with grace.
should be Ilvin. He stepped up with grace. +
Born the son of a perfectly ordinary black …
Born the son of a perfectly ordinary blacksmith, Zakar was set up to follow his father's example and enjoy a life of moderate comfort and respectability as a skilled tradesman. The boy took to metal and crafting precociously, displaying both an uncommon passion and rare skill for forming crafts out of molten metals and materials. As he grew older, this interest quickly manifested itself in more...experimental designs that would better serve a more clandestine user than a knight in shining armor. Once announcing his intention to specialize in the craftsmanship of weapons, his father could not have been more pleased with his son's prospects, and quickly arranged for an apprenticeship under an Iron Guard smith, where the boy would have plenty of practice at making arms and armor. Well, as it turns out, the Iron Guard was not particularly fond of their newest weaponeer's proclivity for nefariously-purposed equipment, which only accelerated as the young man aged and grew in skill. And so it was that Zakar, having only just begun his apprenticeship with the Guard, found himself suddenly displaced, untrained, and unemployed. After being tossed out of his former employ, one of the guardsmen introduced Zakar to a "friend" of his from the Culler family, who had apparently taken an interest in the stories of the Guard's nefarious little smith. Enough of an interest, it seems, to arrange for Zakar's immediate apprenticeship under the Grayhope's master weaponsmith. Zakar remained gladly in the Grayhope's employ for the next decade, continuing to ply his craft, encouraged to experiment as much as he saw fit. When the Grayhopes were called into service against the Gray Forest shavs, it was Zakar who was brought along as the force's armorer, where he continued to gain notoriety for his experimental and creative approach to weaponsmithing. Now, having returned from service to the Grayhopes, the smith is eager to repay his debts to the Culler family, who gave him a second chance when he needed it most.
im a second chance when he needed it most. +
Born the son of a reasonably successful bl …
Born the son of a reasonably successful blacksmith, Gerard abandoned his apprenticeship at the age of sixteen in order to heed the call to enlist as a Telmar armsmen and do his duty to his House. Long hours spent hammering metal translated well to swinging large swords and carrying the weight of heavy sheets of plate mail. And so it was that Gerard found himself rising quickly through the ranks of the Telmar military, quickly gaining a reputation as one of the best young swordsman in the Telmar ranks. He continued his service well past his initial enlistment, his skillful swordsmanship eventually earning him selection to the Duke Telmar's personal guard. A few years later, during a visit by Prince Radley, Gerard found himself riding out with Duke Arn and the Prince of Sanctum in order to quell a small shav incursion into the Oathlands. The invading force was larger than originally anticipated, and the Duke ordered his personal guard to reinforce a crumbling flank, placing Gerard in charge of the detail. When the dust finally settled, and the shavs routed, Gerard was found badly wounded, surrounded by a dozen shav corpses who feel victim to the armsman's dancing blade. Passed over by the first wave of medics, Gerard was left on the battlefield for dead, picked up almost by chance by another passing healer. After recovering from his wounds, Gerard was knighted by Duke Arn for his bravery in combat, and given the honor of serving as the Telmar family's personal sword instructor, responsible for teaching young Ansel, the future Sword of Telmarch, how to dance with a blade. Becoming known around the Telmarch as the Telmar's dance instructor for the armsman's graceful swordsmanship, it's to this assignment that Gerard has committed himself for the past decade. With the majority of the House now located in Arx, Gerard is eager to continue to serve his family in their new home, and to make sure that future generations of Telmars do not forget their proper forms.
Telmars do not forget their proper forms. +
Born the third son of a rather forgettable …
Born the third son of a rather forgettable baron, Pasquale was never meant to rule. Born with a chronic, nagging sickness of the lungs, he'd never be riding into battle. Born with a sharp mind and decided hunger for knowledge, his family was eager for him to join the Faith, but he never much wanted that. No, Pasquale grew up bedridden and passed the days reading books of war, and history, and politics. He wanted to lead armies, not save souls. And after pushing hard enough, his father granted him command of a unit, called The Knights of the Chalice. The Knights of the Chalice sounds important and meaningful, but it's anything but. To the north of the barony, in wine country, a small unit of soldiers was assigned to guard the place. There never was anything to guard against, and mostly the soldiers lazed about, got drunk, and harassed the farmers and vinters. Pasquale was undeterred. Hard work, determination, and a mind for leadership paid off, and this unit slowly became one of the best trained units in the barony, and all were fiercely loyal to their commander. When scouting reports came in with news of the Gyre's scouting fleet approaching, the barony's army was mobilized. Pasquale begged to move his unit south, where a band of the enemy was set to land, but his father and brothers ordered him to stay put. He obeyed orders, until news reached him that the defenses of the family estate had been breached. Pasquale rushed south and managed to ambush the Gyre's substantial forces. With a well-trained unit, a vast knowledge of warfare, and no small amount of Lycene trickery, Pasquale crushed the Gyre's force. Sadly, The Knight the Chalice arrived too late to save the baron and his wife. Pasquale's older brother also fell. His middle brother was left to inherit the throne, and in an underhanded effort to restore the family reputation, he blamed the deaths on Pasquale. It was a bitter, frustrated, pariah of a man that Marquessa Lianne found, when touring the damage to her holdings. Pasquale is no liar and not prone to exaggeration, and she believed the man, and promptly offered to adopt him into the newly made Malespero family, as her general. It was finally the chance he felt he was entitled to, and he grabbed hold with both hands. Now, Pasquale wants nothing more than to make Nilanza's forces into something truly feared. His mind is on training his men, researching military tactics, and pursuing some of these rumors of ancient, mystical weaponry. He's come to Arx to meet with his Marquessa, to meet the rest of the leaders of Velenosa, and just recently joined the Scholars.
sa, and just recently joined the Scholars. +
Born the third son of a tailor in Bastion, …
Born the third son of a tailor in Bastion, Udell was drawn to the Faith from a very early age. Intelligent and warm, he wanted to become a Mercy when he grew up - and when he grew up, he did. He became a Mercy when he turned eighteen, and Godsworn on his twenty-first birthday; after a perfectly ordinary apprenticeship he became a full physician, specializing in battlefield medicine and end-of-life care. Many years - and many battlefields - later, he found himself leading the Mercies of Bastion. Rumors of the rediscovery of the Lost were swiftly followed by more information; wary at first, it took him some time to investigate - but when he did, he realized that he’d been serving Death as well as Lagoma for quite some time. Escaping the sack of Bastion thanks to the help of some of those present for the Seraph’s retirement party, Udell made his way to Arx, where he spent time meditating in the shrine of Death as well as in the shrine of Lagoma. Hearing stories of Udell's service attending at the bedsides of those the Mercies couldn't save, it was Dominus Aureth himself that approached Udell about serving as Archlector to the Queen of Endings, the post empty since the passing of the last who held it. A humble man, Udell saw the potential of such a position, namely in spreading word of Her reclaiming and furthering the proper practice of compassionate vigil. His acceptance was subtle, but his presence and service has remained anything but.
nce and service has remained anything but. +
Born the third son of a third son to Zacha …
Born the third son of a third son to Zacharie Pravus and Caroline Pravus nee Blanchard, Matteo never expected to be in line for much of anything but a political marriage and a lifetime to idle nobility. That, he fulfilled well. He studied and learned as was expected of him, but he flitted from the sword to wordplay, to the theater and back again to brawling in the streets. He never settled on any one thing to be, except himself. He was mercurial, flighty, and certainly not part of any part to lead a coup against Duke Piero. Nevertheless, when his brother was captured and found to be involved, he was banished just the same. Only now he returns, due to his parent's support and the goodwill of Duchess Belladonna, still with no part of his own. With a new tan and the same carefree attitude, he returns to Arx with the same expectations: to lead a life of idle nobility and perhaps make some political advantagous marriage for Pravus.
political advantagous marriage for Pravus. +
Born the third son of a wealthy silk merch …
Born the third son of a wealthy silk merchant in the Dune Kingdoms of Eurusi, Malik was born among a caste that allowed for a life of relative luxury and ease. Growing up in the water kingdom of Petrioch, he was acutely aware early in life that inheritence of the family business was likely not in his future. It was likely why he first took up the brush, though natural talent aided turning hobby into a profession. His canvases were always the unusual sort - first, upon the silks that his father sold at market, which earned him the attention of Eurusi nobility. This helped catapult him into court, where he took his brush upon the skin of the dancers at the King's palace, creating scenery which was often just as captivating as the dances themselves. After a few years of entertaining those in Petrioch's palace, Malik left Petrioch in the company of another palace worker and was said to have disappeared completely. Then again, who cares about the fate of two simple commoners? It was only recently that Malik has returned - not in the Dune Kingdoms, no, but in Arx proper, settling into the Whisper House. It was said he became a Whisper in Setarco and arrived in Arx thereafter, though these are the sorts of stories which are often ambiguous in nature. His brand of art often trades between brush and needle, regularly offering designs ranging from simple to sophisticated upon skin in the form of temporary or permanent tattooing, though his art will often find its way upon other forms of canvases as well.
way upon other forms of canvases as well. +
Born the younger brother of King Alerius I …
Born the younger brother of King Alerius II and Tommen Grayson, and the youngest son of Thalia Grayson, Augustus was trained as an administrator and academic rather than a warrior or an heir. Constantly engrossed in books, texts of all kinds, and the sheer environment of academic learning, Augustus did not entirely shirk his martial duties either - though his education has lead him to be more of a strategist than a combatant. Unlike most Graysons, Augustus was not born in the Crownlands and was instead born when his royal parents were conducting a tour of the vassal princedoms. It was during a stop in the Lycene capital of Lenosia that Augustus was brought into the world. As it was that Augustus was destined for a life of courtly matters and intrigue, it was decided at some point during his youth that he would be sent to Lenosia to continue his education. Whilst in Lenosia the young Augustus, a gentleman of around twelve years of age at the time, met Livia Velenosa, a young princess of the Grand Duchess' extended family. The two had been betrothed since birth, an attempt to show the continued Grayson support and admiration for the Lycene people and the Velenosa specifically. The pair were not an ideal match when they married several years later. They knew each other well and their personalities could not have been more different. Where Augustus was a cooler, analytical sort Livia fancied herself a patron of the arts, investing great sums in poetry, songs, and the like; much to the consternation of her young husband. The pair eventually, after some great difficulty and perhaps with the aid of a good-natured spirit of some kind, came to fall very much in love. So much so that many bardic songs exist of their romance and their treasuring each other long after their children had grown. Together they had three sons, Aberforth, Aerys and Tiberias, along with three daughters, Matilda, Elysia, and Cassandra. Their marriage would come to an end in the sixty-first year of Augustus' life with Livia's death at fifty-eight.
s' life with Livia's death at fifty-eight. +
Born the younger sister of Quirin, Annika …
Born the younger sister of Quirin, Annika had a very clear path ahead of her, and she followed it, for the most part. She was not a rebellious child, but she also had some ideas of her own, thankfully ones that fit in just fine with the typical Thraxian ideals of female nobility. When she was a young woman she showed an aptitude for the healing arts, and learned what she could of medicine from the family priest she was unable to pursue her studies further while at home. To that end they decided that she should travel to Arx and study there until such time as she was satisfied with her studies, and came home. She eventually came home, but was never satisfied with her studies. It was while in Arx that she met Dion Stonewood, who would turn her head with tales of adventure and romance, and eventually marry her. They have primarily called Escuma home for all these years, but neither have been stuck on the island. When younger they would adventure, or sail with the fleets. As they had children and gew older they lingered at home until it was decided that they were needed in Arx once more.
ed that they were needed in Arx once more. +
Born the youngest child of the youngest si …
Born the youngest child of the youngest sibling to the ruling line of Blackram, Ivy is secure in the knowledge of her relative unimportance to the continuance of the family line. It also allowed her the luxury of largely doing as she pleased growing up. Oh she attended her lessons and learned all the usual subjects for a lady of a noble family. She also escaped every chance she got to go racing around the Cloudspine, especially with the goatherds. Blackram's goats fascinated her since her youth, especially those bred towards size and power. Bullying those in charge of them into teaching her the vastly fascinating subject of war-goat training, Ivy was a quick study. While she has some basic skill with polearms, she would never count herself a soldier, vastly preferring the commonsense healing techniques learned in the stables. When her talent for medicine became known, her mother was quick to have her train with the Mercies, grooming her towards joining them. Ivy disappointed her mother in that, her bedside manner not up to standards despite their best efforts. She returned happily to the Cloudspine and the goats, bringing in more training that she applied towards the care of the animals. There Ivy would have stayed, too, had it not been for the growing popularity of the goats in Arx. She set forth to handle their care personally, leaving the bulk of the herd in the capable hands of the Blackram goatherds.
e capable hands of the Blackram goatherds. +
Born the youngest of the three children of …
Born the youngest of the three children of Marquis Tibalt and Marquessa Owenna Harthall, Ouida as a spare of the spare was allowed to have her vocation molded to her inclinations, rather than the other way around. Close enough in age to have been more of a companion/partner in crime to Orvyn than annoying hanger on, the two siblings were very close growing up in the shadow of the heir Odhran. From the start she was much more inclined to athletic and adventurous pursuits than the intellectual. She may not have been able to argue her way out of anything, but that's what fists are for! Luckily her energies were quickly channeled into preparation to become a knight, and that finally gave quite a bit of discipline and structure (and infected her with quite a sense of courtly chivalry) before she became too much of a bully. Her knighthood came on the field, and she has a strong reputation for seeing the objective completed and targets protected first and foremost above personal glory, eschewing the flashier trappings of knighthood. Until the untimely deaths of her eldest brother and her father, and Orvyn's rise to Marquis, she spent most of her teen and adult years in the company of knights and soldiers, highborn and commoner alike, fighting and learning from the many minor skirmishes on the mainland. When Orvyn called her to higher service, she answered, and later led some of Harthall's efforts in the Silent War, Gyre War, and the Defense of the Lodge, as well as putting down continuing shav'arvani, bandit, and pirate threats in Fair Harbour. When Orvyn and Sunniva established their household in Arx, she followed in service. Once famed for her pursuit of courtly love in all forms, especially amongst a wide variety of ladies and a few lords, someone quick to carouse and laugh, the last few years of increased duties both within her family and outside of it, seem to have taken their toll, crafting someone far more deliberate and measured and calm. Surely that earlier fire still burns within, but it is kept very carefully under a shield of Valardin reserve.
efully under a shield of Valardin reserve. +
Born the youngest son of the Crovanes of t …
Born the youngest son of the Crovanes of the far north, Asger has found his place in the family on the battlefields against the Abandoned clans around them. The man betting his life on the outcome of every raid, skirmish, and patrol, reveling in those narrow moments when he dances a hairsbreadth away from losing it all. The glee and laughter he displays in the face of his enemies, and his blood soaked appearance earning him a rather barbarous reputation. Even as a child growing up he displayed a penchant for brawling with his peers, gregarious and quick to forgive whatever slight real or imagined might have spurred the fight to begin with.
ight have spurred the fight to begin with. +
Born to Benedetto and Osanna Mazetti, Marz …
Born to Benedetto and Osanna Mazetti, Marzio is the middle of three siblings. A healthy child, he seemed to spend more time outdoors than he ever did inside. He was a quick enough learner when it came to his schooling, but spending his days with his nose buried in a book was never a thought that occured to the boy. Rather, whenever his mother did not make him, Marzio would be out visiting the stables to admire the horses bred within the walls of Ostria. His father had been a cavalryman in his younger years, and so he found himself to be a welcome enough hand around the stables. In his mid-teens, Marzio "liberated" a particularly fine black stallion from a stable stall and ventured out beyond the city walls. He can still recall the feeling of the wind in his hair, and the thunder of his mount's hooves along the roads leading away from the city and along the coast... as well as the stripes on his backside that his father gave him when he inevitably had to return. Nevertheless, he continued to venture to the stables every day until on his sixteenth birthday his family gifted him the horse which he had stolen. From then on, Marzio's life seemed to follow a path of its own creation. He joined the Ostrian Cavalry, seeming to follow in his father's footsteps. Climbing through the ranks, he soon found himself to be in command of a unit of horsemen patrolling the trade roads along the coast, as well as safeguarding the areas near Ostria, spending his nights beneath the stars within the call of his beloved home.
stars within the call of his beloved home. +
Born to Damien and Annaliese Wyrmguard, Re …
Born to Damien and Annaliese Wyrmguard, Reiker is the oldest child of the lesser part of his family. Raised as a knight, the boy showed an odd aptitude in his young age, favoring a long spear rather than a sword. Though mocked at first by some, he was earily efficient with the weapon, claiming that he didn't want to be touched by such useless people. At first this seemed to be a thing of pride, though outside of fighting, he had no problem entering contact with commoners, he merely liked to get into his opponents head by looking down on them. A lively, happy child quickly turned stern as his first sibling was born, Reiker was serious about always listening, and took it very much to heart when told he had to be an example for them. He didn't play often as a child, but devoted his time to studying, to fighting better and harder under the impression that the better he could be, the better his siblings would be. His love was harsh, during the middle child's training Reiker often would smack their hand and trip them, regardless of the skill difference and unfairness. He would insult them, force them to study, and to sleep the proper time if they resisted. Once he felt that they were too old to need him, Reiker set out to spend some years wandering the world to perform his duties to it. He couldn't learn anything more sparring at home with the same people he'd been facing for years. He went to learn new ways people might try to harm him, to study societies, shavs, and different battlefields took the young knights help graciously. He returns to Arx a grim man, with his head held high and a spear still at his side, hoping to become more than he has been the past 30 years so he can continue to try and be something to look up to.
nue to try and be something to look up to. +
Born to Daniela Bisland and Rodric Grayson …
Born to Daniela Bisland and Rodric Grayson, Ainsley Grayson is a distant cousin of the Crown Prince. His parents tried to groom him for politics and the spotlight. Wanting him to shine like a star. They had many a plan for him. He created for none of them. As a boy he was far more interested in being outside in the training yard. As he grew he found it far too exhausting to deal with politics. Don't say this, don't do that. Pretend you like that person, don't talk to that person even though you like them. Why can't he just tell people whether or not they are annoying him? Why does he need to act a certain way? His parents saw it as a rebellion when he pursued a career in the Iron Guard. He saw it as a way to still do the Grayson name proud, without spending all that time exhausting himself trying to weave political webs. He'd rather just be himself. So he has thrown himself into the Iron Guard. He wants to do the Grayson motto justice: 'None greater than Grayson'. He wants to the best knight in the Iron Guard. His parents eventually found peace with his choice in life, and have stopped putting as much pressure on him to be some political maestro. He was, aside from his parents expectations, quite spoilt as a child. He spent time as a child with his Bisland cousins but his Grayson ones as well. Though most of those connections have not been very strong. Connecting with his family is something he looks forward to in the future.
mething he looks forward to in the future. +
Born to Duncan and Onora of house Harthall …
Born to Duncan and Onora of house Harthall, Islin was one of several children. He grew up among the nobility, learning the arts needed to be a proper gentleman. That said he was always an adventurous sort. He learned to fight with a sword, favoring quickness over pure brute strength in most cases. He was a lean and quick sort, his body being just as quick as his tongue in most cases. Learning how to sail and command the attention of his fellow men he wound up becoming a captain in the Harthall merchant fleet by the time he turned twenty. He developed a bit of a reputation among his fellow sailors for being willing to take risks no one else would go near and come out mostly unscathed at worst. He was followed through life with a rather random sense of luck that in some cases that was balanced by occasional periods of time where people swore he was cursed. Still his ability to fight and talk his way out of tricky situations has served him well...so far. Now he has come to Arx and rumors have it that his family may be seeking a marriage match for the wild hearted Lord.
marriage match for the wild hearted Lord. +
Born to Riker Halfshav and Triana Tessere …
Born to Riker Halfshav and Triana Tessere a year after his older brother Reve, Cirdan was given much of the same upbringing. While his martial training proved to be lackluster and was soon abandoned once the basics were covered, he proved especially skilled in more social settings, quickly making friends and earning no small amount of popularity among certain circles. It proved to be especially beneficial when he was sent to be fostered within his mother's family, soon at home within a land quite different from the one he had grown up in. He quite enjoyed his time in Iriscal, though he was ever quick to leap at any opportunity to travel to new locales and courts, his curiosity insatiable. He knew to make new friends even in what amounted to short visits and maintained these links through active correspondence, somehow managing to fit those in between lessons and other social adventures. There were certainly times of tension, however, though none so great as when Reve declared, once his fostering was finished, that he would not return to Whitehold. While Cirdan was still a year away from the end of his own fostering, it was deemed preferable to escort Cirdan back home to finish his studies there, lest he get any ideas about following his older brother's example. Cirdan didn't mind, but things didn't quite go as planned. While a day away from Whitehold, his group was ambushed by bandits. The bandits proved to be a shav tribe and they took him prisoner, the intent to ransom him off. What followed is the subject of speculation. He appealed to his guards. He seduced the chief's daughter. The story's varied over time. Nonetheless, somehow, Cirdan escaped and managed to make his way to Whitehold and alert his family. Now with Halfshav's forces, he returned to negotiate the release of those who had been traveling with him. The more romantic storytellers like to add that he also negotiated for the chief's daughter to come with him. Yet if such was the truth, it led to tragedy as the negotiations broke down and violence was the ultimate solution. While peace did not reign that day, the experience shaped and motivated him. He dedicated himself to master both law and diplomacy in service to his House. It is for that purpose that he now travels to Arx, after news of his brother's return have reached him.
of his brother's return have reached him. +
Born to Silvia and Daren Cross, Casiar gre …
Born to Silvia and Daren Cross, Casiar grew up as an only child. His primary interests were academic, where all of the other kids his age he knew were more focused in the pursuits of physical prowess. Though most would speak to him, and he wouldn't ignore them or shun his peers, he did have some trouble in his mid-late teens with a few of the boys he grew up around. One in particular, a young man by the name of Rowen, had apparently decided that it was his place to "toughen him up", and his way of doing this was to knock Casiar around at every possible opportunity. many of Casiar's books, though worn and old already, fell to the destructive tendencies of Rowen and his ilk, as they pushed him around, tripped him, and even went as far as to break his nose more than once. Other than these encounters, Casiar's childhood was unremarkable in almost every way. Having become a scholar at the age of twenty-two, Casiar was forced to take a few months away from his studies only half a year later when he received word that his father had passed away unexpectedly. During his time back at home with his mother, while putting what little his family had in order, She too grew ill. After only two weeks from her diagnosis she too passed, while Casiar sat on her bed cradling her head in his lap. It was evident to all of his friends and fellow scholars that this experience took a heavy toll on him. While never outright dismissive or disrespectful of his fellows, Casiar was, prior to the loss of his parents, always more focused on his studies than on anything else, though after his return from his temporary leave, and the subsequent loss of both of his parents, Casiar spoke little. The easy smiles he always had for his friends were gone, his eyes were rarely focused unless the subject was a book or tome he was reading. He became introverted and quiet, obsessed with work and solitude. Those who called him a friend prior to his time away slipped from his notice, even a young woman he had grown close to could not get him to speak or take time away from his books. It has been over a decade since his tragic loss, and while Casiar has begun to come away from his studies more often than any time in the past ten years, he is still mostly quiet and heavily introverted. He has started to try to make new friends, as all those he once had have moved on to other appointments, married and moved away, retired or passed on themselves. At the age of thirty-four, with no prospects for marriage, and no sign that this is particularly bothersome to him, and with a head full of all the writing he devoured throughout the years, Casiar has started to venture out and interact with people more and more. Though still fairly shy and soft spoken, he hopes to put his knowledge to use for the benefit of The Crown.
ledge to use for the benefit of The Crown. +
Born to Thraxian Thralls, Skapti's childho …
Born to Thraxian Thralls, Skapti's childhood was a hard one, and he didn't do himself any favors when he joined with a crew of raiders as a young teen to earn what he could to pay of their debt before it became his own. Every copper he made off plunder went back to his family to pay off the debt in hopes to free them from Thralldom. By the time he was an adult, he was a seasoned veteran, and no one could mistake him for a soft man. It wasn't enough, however. He freed his mother, but his father was still deep in debt when he passed. When they came back from a raid, he heard the news. Some sort of farming accident, it seemed. What happened next, Skapti never would have imagined from a group of hard bitten killers. Rather than lose their comrade to Thralldom himself, each of them offered up the lion's portion of their own share and bought out his freedom. The luck was too good. The next raid they set out on was disastrous. It had been bold, perhaps too bold, but it had had to be to be profitable. To make up for his freedom's price. Almost to a man, they were slaughtered, and Skapti barely mananaged to escape himself, eventually finding himself in Arx. Since coming to Arx, the man has worked a slew of jobs, going work is available, some legit and some... Less so. Bouncer to merchant's guard, deck hand to smuggler, leg breaker to ditch digger.
to smuggler, leg breaker to ditch digger. +
Born to William and Eleanor Redtyde, Rosal …
Born to William and Eleanor Redtyde, Rosalie was barely more than a baby, a toddler of three when the troubles with the Thrax began. Her parents, in their concern for their child, sent her to foster with her mother's family, the Redwood County, in Grayson lands. While the contract stipulated a term no longer than five years, within the year of being sent off her parents were killed in the massacre that wiped out the Redtyde family. Rather than turn her over, her uncle and his family took on Rosalie as a ward of the Redwood's. She was raised by her uncle's family all throughout childhood, cautioned to be careful and not to stir the pot. She was able to keep her family name as a ward, but was told stories of what might happen if she were to wander too far outside of the Crownlands. When she was old enough to start learning beyond what her aunt and uncle could teach her, they paid for her to attend a school in Arx. It was a few years after that the Redwood family was slaughtered, leaving Cedar Vale abandoned and open. The Stonewood Marquis appointed his bother the new Count and the Fireviper County was born, leaving Rosalie once more a ward, but this time to strangers. She made herself an asset to them, applying her skills learned in Arx to aid the Fireviper and Stonewood families in their various needs. Now, however, the Redtydes are re-asserting themselves, and it may just be time for Rosalie Redtyde to step out from the safety of her wardship to rejoin her birth family.
f her wardship to rejoin her birth family. +
Born to a Kennex father and Lycene mother, …
Born to a Kennex father and Lycene mother, Anton was an only child and doted upon accordingly, both parents quite willing to spoil the indolent, if brilliant, boy. While he excelled at his studies and took to the sea well enough, a pronounced aversion to anything martial was observed with dismay by his family. However, forced to not be defenseless at sea, the young Kennex Lord had some skill with a crossbow drilled into him before he was allowed to much more in the way of sailing. Once done, he availed himself of the opportunity to visit the various locales in the Isles, observing their architecture and fortifcations, then came home to figure out how best to put this knowledge to use. It is likely he would have remained content in Stormward, working at the drafting table and overseeing construction - if not for the Gyre War. Pressed into service to fight at Setarco, his parents both were killed and Anton gravely wounded. Once recovered, his life in ruins, he made his way to Arx to see the building styles of the grand capital.
the building styles of the grand capital. +
Born to a Knighted couple in a small baron …
Born to a Knighted couple in a small barony in the Crownlands, Audgrim grew up in a happy home. From an early age he loved the forest, and joined the scouts and rangers working for the baron. He learned to survive and hunt this way, and when old enough he took employ in the ranks of the rangers. His parents were proud of him, and they also saw to him getting training with weapons and armor, to give him a chance for a career as a Knight or at least a soldier. Life in the barony was mostly peaceful, the occasional skirmish with abandoned or bandits being the worst that happened. But then the Silent War began and everything changed. Banners were called, and Audgrim's parents were to join the army against Tolamar Brand and his forces. The baron also dedicated his trained rangers for scouting, Audgrim included. So, leaving his family behind, including his fiancee since only a month, he and his fellow rangers took off to scout for the main forces, while the baron gathered up troops on his land to move to the frontlines. What was not expected was that The Silent Army was moving through the forest and came straight at the barony and the small town where the mansion was. When Audgrim and his fellow scouts realised this, they turned around and rode as hard as they could back home, but they arrived to death and oblivion. The silent army was still there and captured the rangers after a short skirmish where it was clear to Audgrim that they never stood a chance. About a week later, Audgrim awoke alone on a small strip of beach by a small, dark lake. He did not know where he was or what had happened. There was no sign of anyone or the silent army, or his fellow rangers. The area was silent and the forest dying around him. He stumbled away and managed to make it back to the mansion where he proceeded to bury everyone he loved, including his fiancee. He walked away, and stayed in the forest for years, banding together with others of similar fates, hunting and taking on mercenary work for villages having trouble with bandits. But they stayed on the fringe of society, earning a reputation as a fearless and cunning band of a semi shady reputation. They avoided entanglement with Compact forces and were called the Woodsmen. Many years like this ended when Audgrim and his band ended up in trouble that caught the interest of people from Arx. Audgrim decided to go to Arx and look for answers and to start another life. There are always those in need of a ranger and hunter, whether of beast or man.
anger and hunter, whether of beast or man. +
Born to a Merchant Lord and a Court report …
Born to a Merchant Lord and a Court reporter in one of the smaller islands of Stormward territory, Leland and his family moved to Arx at a very early age. He spent his early years following his father around at the Crown court while he worked, opening his eyes to the world of the Law. Leland was fascinated by courtroom drama. Two champions entered the ring and only one emerged victorious. Little Leland wanted all of that, he wanted to be the champion who always walked out victorious. When he was old enough, he went to law school and worked harder than any other student there, earning him special honors. Immediately out of school he worked for a time in the Crown Magistrates office doing small claims and disputes. Eventually, he branched out, leaving the Crown Magistrates office to open his own firm.
n Magistrates office to open his own firm. +
Born to a Moreau and Nelly Nightgold, Helv …
Born to a Moreau and Nelly Nightgold, Helvetius was raised in the typical noble fashion. He was taught manners, rhetoric, arithmetic, and some of the soft sciences at an early age. Really, despite his intelligence, he puts it to little use and would rather laze about under the sun than go do anything of note. That is the reason why he is not often given the chance to lead any of his family's operations. Really, he is just a nuisance overall. He can often be seen lounging about in taverns for both the high and low born.
in taverns for both the high and low born. +
Born to a certain Valardin noble family, V …
Born to a certain Valardin noble family, Vayne was nothing less than a child prodigy. His early blooming and ravenous appetite for new knowledge saw him sent to Sanctum to study with the Faith before even ten summers had passed. When he arrived there, he won over the skeptics with his precocious insight, his unflinching courage in his convictions, and his continual drive to challenge and refine his ideas in ethical debate. Thrilled at reports coming home about their rising star, his family gave him the sobriquet of "the Incorruptible" to the annoyance of his siblings and cousins, forced to compete with an absentee golden child. Vayne's eighteenth birthday was to be the capstone and a triumphant occasion for his family, where he would leave them to take his Godsworn vows but surely begin a meteoric rise up the ranks the Faith, perhaps even to become the Dominus. Instead, it was the beginning of the end. Always a believer that true dogmatic beliefs will stand up to any amount of scrutiny, Vayne began to focus on the concepts of Tehom worship as a Godsworn, calling the 'split' in the Pantheon the fundamental theological issue of the Arvian religion. The leadership was uncomfortable with Vayne's study of an issue they felt was /very/ settled, but confident that he would draw the proper conclusions. Instead, his determination shook Sanctum like a thunderbolt: the traditional Oathlands proscriptions against venerating the Thirteenth were in fact prejudicial and incorrect, he said. In disbelief that one of their brightest hopes was suddenly on the verge of heresy, the Sanctum leadership even requested help from his former House in turning Vayne away from his course. But the very qualities for which he had always been praised now stood as implacable opposition. Even if a whole fealty stood against him in disapproval, Vayne would not relent to family or social or political pressure, only rigorous theological argument. None could craft such a one strong enough to dissuade him. Before things came to a final head, however, one day Vayne was simply... gone. In his quarters he left a note. "The gods do not have dominion over only parts of the world lovely to behold. To turn away from hard truths is to surrender control to them, to let them dictate how we do or do not act. A light necessarily casts a shadow, an assertion must have a negation. If we are to make the best world that we can, we must first accept the truth of the world as it is in all its aspects. Our Dark Reflections are created with us, as part of who we are. To deny Tehom is to remain willfully blind to our true natures. But if I am to truly help others find their way, then I must first understand myself, in all of my facets. May the wisdom of all the Pantheon bless us all." For the next fifteen years, Vayne was a cautionary tale. He ceased to go by his given name, and fell into obscurity. Occasionally some rumors or fanciful tales would surface of individuals resembling Vayne, or resembling what people thought Vayne would look like at the time, no one could say for certain. Some were that he had found a niche with a fringe cult, others claimed he had let himself go to dissolute or even outright criminal behavior. His House practically declared him dead and moved on. The story was over, until many years later the man in the mirrored mask arrived in Arx. He seemed generally uninterested in his past apart from reclaiming his given name, merely referencing a long and challenging journey of self-discovery and that he was ready to resume his duties. Despite his clear fealty to Tehom there was little question that Vayne was a true priest of the whole Pantheon conversant in its ritual and dogma, and he gained a grudging if uncertain respect among the clergy of Arx. Ironically, upon establishing himself in Arx he began the quick rise up the ranks of the Faith that had so long ago seemed to be all but a preordained thing. The last step came when Vayne presented incontrovertible evidence of the previous Archlector's financial corruption and violation of his oaths; crushing his largest block of internal political opposition in the process. Ascendant to the Archlectorship of Tehom, Vayne felt the delightful rush of triumph, the sweet vindication, the tickling satisfaction of looking down at every close-minded person who had called him heretic, sneered at him while blind to their own arrogance, slighted or betrayed him while he sought to understand his own self and his own darkness, worked to undermine his ambitions to drag the discipleship of the Thirteenth into ending its exile and realizing its full potential kicking and screaming if necessary... he savored it all, he exulted in it all, he felt it all to the very depth of his bones. And then he banished it to memory, and got to work. The Faith of the Pantheon exists to bring the will of the gods into the world, and the most devoted of Tehom will not settle for anything less than his flock's rightful place among them.
han his flock's rightful place among them. +
Born to a common family in the Crownlands, …
Born to a common family in the Crownlands, Kaine Algair's lot in life was meager at first. The seventh-oldest of ten children and farmhands-to-be, the beginning of Kaine's story is often that of a common farmer. However, Kaine saw a need to stand out. From as early as five years old it was clear that he would be bored with the simple peasant life. As he grew a bit older he preferred fixing and building things around the house, helping make clothing for himself and his siblings, and fitting horses with horseshoes. Watching a few of his elder siblings leave for Arx, Kaine knew that a brighter future waited in the city for him. As a young adult, Kaine prepared to set out and earn an apprenticeship with a craft guild, promising his parents that he would visit and bring home silver for them from time to time. Kaine slowly learned a wide variety of crafts, but his lack of dedication meant that a guild was reluctant to help him. For most of the time he spent in the city, Kaine focused on teaching himself, and impressing potential customers with his works.
essing potential customers with his works. +
Born to a commoner family with too many ch …
Born to a commoner family with too many children, Ardee spent the first few years of her life mostly under the radar. She was cared for by her siblings until she was old enough for the family to realize that she was going to grow up to be a 'looker'. It was decided for her quickly that her lot in life would be to go to school and learn to be a Courtesan. She could make decent enough money that way, and would be able to help 'pitch in' by looks and wiles. She went to school, began to learn the tricks of the trade and started planning on how to escape the hold of her family. She wanted more out of life than to live to support her family. The answer came through death, her entire family ending up victims of the Silent War. She only escaped the same fate through the school she'd been attending when tragedy struck. Though nearly a victim herself, she was taken in as a refugee and eventually pledged her services to the de Lire family. She serves as the family's Chief Librarian.
he serves as the family's Chief Librarian. +
Born to a distant cousin of the then Count …
Born to a distant cousin of the then Count of Seliki, Ashur was raised with a bow in his hand and an adventure in his heart. And even when there was no true adventure to be had, he made up his own. An independent boy, he explored the woods outside his home, the beaches and caves along the coast. He found treasures everyday: long abandoned chests that surely held goblets of ancient, though none were ever found inside, books with pages torn out that undoubtedly once contained mystical spells. At the age of 18, Ashur's father, a minor lord, brokered a deal to have him married into the Sanna family. He didn't want to, but was talked into it with language like 'duty' and 'family needs'. A trip was organized not long after the nuptials and he was dragged to a distant-relation's estate; some aunt's cousin's third husband's grandfather's sister's niece. It was revelatory. His exploration, up until that point, had been external, always looking for answers elsewhere. But this young girl, with her brilliant mind sought answers to things inside her laboratory, inside her mind. He showed her some of the weaponry he used, some of the tools that he believed could detect spirits, which they both believe in! He told her of his wild stories that most people never believed, of the places he went that were not marked on any map. And she showed him her inventions and experiments, things he didn't necessarily understand all of the time. But she explained her need of things. Rare flowers, fancy metals. Who better to find those things than him?! Ashur would chase things for Elloise and bring them back to her. Together, they worked on new ways to create things that had made this way for generations. They grew fond of each other and were inseparable in that limited time they were able to spend together. But the trip had to end sometime and he returned home. Within a year of his marriage, a strange, undiagnosed disease struck his wife. He heard legend of someone that would have been able to save his wife, that had never failed to heal any sick person. He lost himself in the search. He was away from his wife and home for months, but each clue led to another hint and eventually, he found the person; a 'witch' in the deepest, darkest part of the woods. He brings the 'witch' to their estate after another week's journey home and is told upon arrival that his wife had passed away the night before. Grief overwhelmed him. He fled from his home, from those that knew him and he lost himself in travels until a letter from Elloise recently arrived...
a letter from Elloise recently arrived... +
Born to a family of meager legacy, Ulfric …
Born to a family of meager legacy, Ulfric was raised on a commoner's farm owned by his father. His progenitor was a strong man, newly retired after decades of military service, but he was not a decent man. Often unsupervised and ignored, Ulfric grew up in rags and earning his meals on fishing vessels that came and went from his little village. The boy had come to know many men during that time whom he would call father, men who taught him how to live proper and fend for one's own pride. Lessons were taught throughout his childhood and adolescence through experiencing them firsthand, soon growing into his own man for the day he'd finally step away from home. But he was not content with simply surviving day by day, not if it meant there would be nothing sweeter to find at the end of every trial and punishment. As soon as he was able, he took to the seas under a noble's banner. Stricken to forge his own prestiege, one that he could pass on to a kin of his own with pride. He has long been content with earning his keep through the swing of his swordarm.
is keep through the swing of his swordarm. +
Born to a family of merchant sailors in Ni …
Born to a family of merchant sailors in Nilanza, Chiara is the middle child of three; her parents, Marcel and Ilena, were much of the opinion that their children should all be involved in the family business with the goal of eventually succeeding them, but perhaps unsurprisingly Chiara begged to differ, having not properly been consulted in the matter prior to her birth. While both her older sister, Denora, and the youngest, Linette, have been more than happy to follow in the footsteps of their parents, Chiara has spent as much as time investigating the destinations of those goods shipped as the shipping process itself, occasionally disappearing mid-trip, much to the exasperation of her family - perhaps all the more so because she is actually quite competent at her trade. Surprising absolutely no one, the restless Chiara ultimately left the confines of what protection her family could give her and has spent the past few years traveling; due to such she has certainly seen her share of good and bad. Thankfully, either through sheer luck or quick thinking, she's managed to extricate herself from the worst of those situations, leaving her with an appreciation for what could have been, but not resulting any obvious dampening effect on her enthusiasm. With the Marquessa having made it known that she is looking for native Nilanzans to help support the growing House Malespero - and perhaps due to a little bit of trouble with the locals in the most recent port she'd been carousing in - Chiara has made her way to Arx to settle there, at least for a short while.
settle there, at least for a short while. +
Born to a family of successful farmers, Br …
Born to a family of successful farmers, Breccan grew up understanding and learning the land like all people of Acorn Hill. But what developed was a deeper understanding of nature itself and more often than not the impressionable youth found his time idling out into the woods where he was oftentimes scolded for being so careless by his father who compared him often to his older brother, Everett, as the eldest took to the agriculture life and found it suitable. It was after a fight that resulted in blows, the brashness of youth calling his old man out, that he ran off to the woods and wasn't heard from in weeks. What happened exactly was unknown but Breccan came back changed, throwing himself headlong into the family affairs but from a different angle. Instead, his charm and good nature was put forward to help bring prosperity and trade, having made several connections throughout Arvum- houses ranging from Setarco to Clearlake. It was after the death of his father, that Breccan told his brother the truth of where he had been for those many weeks ( as it had always been a mystery ) and it is with the passing of their father that he now must devote his life to another path for something is coming that will test their family and all of Acorn Hill. That something did come, however, it came with the arrival of shavs who destroyed all of Acorn Hill. It was luck that had Breccan away, devoting his life to helping build Lodges of Petrichor in other areas that he deemed would need the protection.With a brother and nephew still alive, he aims to devote his life to Pretrichor and seeing the land of forest and homestead safe from any that would defile it.
estead safe from any that would defile it. +
Born to a humble merchant family in Lenosi …
Born to a humble merchant family in Lenosia, Giada was raised quick to understand that money makes life possible in the city. She was a quick student, picking up tricks and tips with alacrity. She was, however, too independent to stay at home, contented to run a market stall. She started branching out into other business ventures, eventually finding her way towards marketing her services to various mercenary outfits that would pass through to resupply. Their stories awakened a wanderlust in her that had probably been there all along, and she travelled with one of the companies to Arx. There, she came across a recruitment drive for The Redwood Mercenary Company, and they needed a quartermaster. She didn't even hesitate. So now she's in Arx and gainfully employed, looking forward to the next challenge.
ed, looking forward to the next challenge. +
Born to a life of moderate poverty in a la …
Born to a life of moderate poverty in a large family with Grayhope connections, Thena showed early aptitude for sneaking about and relieving people of their possessions and was fostered out to some other Grayhope cousins who 'encouraged' this aptitude and a few others (stabbing) that might help her help them with the family business. Petty theft as a child and pre-teen led to more lucrative and dangerous operations, and it was during one such that she was betrayed by her partner and left to die in the gutters of the Lower Burroughs, where an elderly disciple of Lagoma named Petrae found her. The woman, a talented healer, patched her back together and eventually convinced her that she was meant for more than a short drop and sudden stop, so eventually Thena left 'home' to stay with Petrae in a cottage in the Gray Forest, a few miles outside of Arx. Petrae taught her healing arts and some rudiments of the Faith, especially worship of Lagoma, and, having never known real safety or parental care before, Thena finally started to thrive. When Brand and his army began to make their way toward Arx, Thena left her oasis to seek help from someone in the city. She became trapped there by the Siege, and, unsure of the reception she might receive from the Grayhopes in the city, signed up with the Iron Guard as a means to keep herself sheltered and fed. When the Siege lifted, she made her way back to the cottage in the company of a couple of heavily armed friends, only to find that Petrae had been tortured and murdered. Devastated and bereft, Thena sought consolation in the Faith and eventually took vows to become Godsworn. She currently serves in the Knights of Solace and finds some comfort in carrying out her duties, specifically those duties that involve slaughtering anyone and anything remotely linked to her mentor's death.
ing remotely linked to her mentor's death. +
Born to a line of nobility of the House St …
Born to a line of nobility of the House Steelhart, Harrow was a big and healthy baby with two older brothers and one sister. At the age of four, he was already physically bigger than most of his peers, and was trained by his father - a Knight and famed sword of the Kingdom - in the art of swordplay. A natural at it, Harrow was able to best his father at the age of nine and then squired to one of the comrade at arms of his father. Trained by the sergeant at arms of their land, Harrow began taking part in tourneys and jousts at the age of thirteen. Unhorsing adult Knights and battering them down at foot, he was a natural - and soon enough victory after victory followed. One particular accomplishment was when the boy at age sixteen was able to best a Knight of the King's Own, gaining the attention of the Lord Commander and catching many eyes at the time. The young squire, when he turned eighteen, was soon enough Knighted and served in many campaigns in the name of the King for years. It did not take long before the accomplished Knight was admitted into the ranks of the King's Own.
admitted into the ranks of the King's Own. +
Born to a merchant and a physician. Was lo …
Born to a merchant and a physician. Was locally renowned for being deeply in-tune with others, quickly becoming an object of affection during schooling and apprenticeship. Wished to become a chirugeon and apprenticed beneath an old battlefield doctor. During adulthood, received a surprising amount of marriage proposals: All of which were denied. Much to the surprise of Dusa's peers, a sharp intellect gleamed beneath those hazel eyes, taking to learning the medicinal arts rather quickly while under the tutelage of the battle-worn doctor. What followed as a shock to everyone: A sudden wanderlust. Leaving everyone behind in search of something greater, with enough scrolls and tomes tucked away to ply the medical trade wherever needed, affording a transient, yet comfortable life.
fording a transient, yet comfortable life. +
Born to a nomadic tribe that claims their …
Born to a nomadic tribe that claims their origin to be from the area of The Red Run, near Farhaven from their earliest recollections (though during their travels many people from all over Arvum joined them, leading to many varied and mixed histories), Zuraida led a life of wanderlust with her family. Performers, sooth-sayers, musicians - they were a wide and varied bunch and their colors rubbed off on her in the womb. As a result of these travels and her family's penchant for their arts, her family is rather well known in the North - even respected in some circles. But her life hasn't always been sunshine and bliss. Her life was significantly changed when her twin brother died of natural causes when she was only 5 and an accident left her stricken blind in her teens. She comes to Arx as a refugee, saved from the wilds of the Gray Forest by Fergus and Freja from the Silent War after having been a victim of a Shav/Bringer ambush that stole her family away from her. She was so overcome with gratefulness that she bent her knee and swore her fealty to Redrain.
her knee and swore her fealty to Redrain. +
Born to a pair of commoner parents who owe …
Born to a pair of commoner parents who owed some debts that they couldn't pay, Vandred had an OK start to life. Sure, it was rough and horrible trying to figure things out in the beginning, but when you notice that people don't pay attention to the dirty little beggar, it gets easier to make sure you have something to fill your belly at night - and then a little more for some warmth at night, and then something to keep people looking elsewhere while you made sure you had a full belly and a warm night.
ure you had a full belly and a warm night. +
Born to a poor family in a nondescript vil …
Born to a poor family in a nondescript village, Winthrop has only known struggle. Being very small for his age, a genetic fluke, he learned very quickly that he will never quite make it by through brute force. So, he learned how to trick and confuse very early on so he could get by on his brains alone. His mother left the village when he was very young, and his father died in a drunken brawl, so he has been on his own for as long as he could remember. And, as far as he is concerned, it's better that way. He now travels around, following the flow of coin from crowds of travelers to line his own pockets.
owds of travelers to line his own pockets. +
Born to a rather poor family on the Mourni …
Born to a rather poor family on the Mourning Isles, Egon had spent his youth as a sickly boy, incapable of aiding his family in much of their day-to-day living. The family was large; his four siblings had quickly learned to take care of themselves and eventually forged their own paths with some of them, namely his brother Maris, following the path of their fisherman turned sellsword father. Egon had kept to himself during his youth, looking inward rather than outward for inspiration. As days turned to years, he had eventually grown out of his sickly phase into a relatively hale individual and spent the majority of his teens at home, taking up various practices and disciplines in an attempt to aid his destitute mother. Life was difficult on the Isles, and, coupled with his odd appearance, it was made isolating. Despite it all, he had learned a great deal from its harsh lessons. After a time, his mother had decided that he needed to leave for Arx with the hope that he could find a better life there than what was available to him.
life there than what was available to him. +
Born to a smaller household just outside C …
Born to a smaller household just outside Caithe, Mallory had always longed for adventure. Early tales of reavers and pirates, privateers and derring-do on the high seas had sparked her young imagination to take flight. Sadly, as with most children, her dreams of sailing and adventuring were crushed when her parents informed her that she would be schooled to learn a 'proper' trade. With little choice between being castt out or falling in line, Mallory began her path of education. She would sneak away every chance she got, heading to the beaches to fantasize and play pretend. The young scamp even blackmailed one of the household's young men into teaching her how to fight! But there was little doubt, after years of training, that her dreams were just that. So it was that Mallory Davos began her career as a steward. Her quick mind and keen wit were well-suited to the job, she was efficient and honest in her work. But always she longed for excitement in her life beyond figures tirelessly scratched into a ledger or settling disputes between tenants. Her days were filled with tallies and taxes, running the household.. and daydreaming. She still kept those dreams of grand adventure in the back of her mind to be called up on a whim. All was fine and perfectly /boring/, until the day the pirates attacked. They raided the small household and its tennants, looting and plundering anything not nailed down. While the ladies of the house cowered in a closet, Mallory crept about in hopes of catching a closer glimpse of the pirates that had lived in her dreams for so long. The reality was a shock, of course, and as she was caught and listening to them debate what was to be done with her... Mallory offered them a deal borne of desperation. To her complete shock and surprise, they accepted it, and she was taken back to the ship with the rest of the booty and dumped at the captain's feet. She worked her way up on that ship, from cabin boy to deckhand to navigator to bos'un to first mate. After a time, she fell in with the captain as well, absorbing everything he would teach or tell her like a sponge. When the captain died in a raid a few years later, Mallory was elected the new captain by the crew. Having kept her eyes and ear open through the last few months, the newly minted Cap'n Davos declared they would be legalizing their endeavors and she sailed that ship right into the harbor at Arx and set up a meeting with Salazar Argento. She and her crew of ne'er-do-wells have been sailing under his flag ever since, and now that he's returned to Arx under his House banner, she's answering the call to duty.
banner, she's answering the call to duty. +
Born to a strict Valardin family, Evelin w …
Born to a strict Valardin family, Evelin was raised as a single child fussed over by her parents. Stifled and locked down, she spent more time working than playing, and could only watch children her age play from afar. Her noble family had served the nobility for generations, and she was expected to do the same, learning much about politics and the struggles of court life. But the adolescent woman despised this life, and when she became the ripe age of 20, her rebellious streak reached a fiery crescendo. Inspired by a band of wandering lycene ravashari she took off with them, nonchalant of her parents scorn, and took to living amongst the wilds, travelling between the great cities and learning much in the way of magic.
ies and learning much in the way of magic. +
Born to an offshoot line of Duke Rubino of …
Born to an offshoot line of Duke Rubino of Gemicitta, Samuele, was focused on his life working to be a knight, training to defend the house and his older sister and brother. But even so, he always stood out not only because of his size but because of his combat prowess, along with a distinct lack of skill in leadership. He was always known to compare himself to the sword, rather than the arm swinging it. Still, after he had been knighted at the age of twenty-two he took up residence with the Rubino family in the city and works to defend his house while his sister is left to the decision making. As for his eldest brother lysander, He indulges the artistic man, enjoying his company and others of the family.
ying his company and others of the family. +
Born to an underpopulated house already sa …
Born to an underpopulated house already saturated in daughters, Sedna got her artistic start early on as a girl. Slipping away from her lessons in arithmetic and diplomacy, she developed a liking for the uniquely intricate glass and mineral formations created when lightning struck the sandy shorelines near her ancestral home. As the years passed, she was inspired to craft towering elemental figures out of carefully affixed portions of those same substances. In time, this evolved. Through the use of thinly-veiled fabric and applied torchlight, she learned to give her creations the suggestion of movement and dance. Coaxing fragile, rigid structures into the appearance of uncharacteristic acts of play and whimsy, her exhibitions both delighted and transfixed. Testaments to Mangata's domain, supporters whispered. She married relatively young. It was a strong arrangement that served the house. For Sedna, it served to alleviate any scrutiny that her creative hobby might have conjured up. The two were amicable but lived mostly separate lives, his predictably ending somewhere out at sea. When Lord Tiberius sought to claim rulership of Redreef Shores following the death of Baron Landis, Sedna was ambivalent with leanings in his favor. He was, after all, the next male in line! She was not at all appreciative of the familial tumult that followed. She proved abundantly cautious, careful not to be overheard uttering an unkind word for Tiberius or his rivals except for by the shrewd ear of a servant, perhaps. From that safe social and political distance, she watched the regime change in her family's leadership and bided her time. When the moment came for Sedna to swear loyalty to the victor, it was done with as little certainty as the occasion would allow. The infighting had already broken Sedna's confidence in her family's stability. As a spur of growth hit their region in the wave of anti-thralldom progressiveness, it came as a mild surprise to Sedna that visitors stopping to port at Redreef Shores appreciated her art more for its novelty and entertainment value than for the spiritual significance it held for her. Sedna ultimately resisted change. She responded by showcasing less and less for strangers, adding one more layer of tasteful mystique to already favorable accounts of her.
ique to already favorable accounts of her. +
Born to be a duke's younger brother, Broga …
Born to be a duke's younger brother, Brogan expected his lot in life from an early age, and threw himself into it with a will. Marriage for politics, maybe -- he was a dutiful son, and he expected that even when he was a young teenager -- but that was nothing to put a damper on his lust for life. Marriage did nothing to stop him from running amok amongst the common folk, or among the other similarly ranked nobles, for that matter. He drank, hunted, punched and gambled his way through every keep in the North and brought with him wild volume, laughter, and just an inordinate supply of delightful bullshit. His wife was another count's daughter, from the Oathlands, and she died giving him his firstborn daughter, who died a few years later. It was the kind of tragedy that could have brought a lesser man down. For Brogan, it made him live harder, live wilder. He disappeared into the snows and got in touch with the mountain's icy roots, bringing himself to the shaman's path and hunting for blood, life and happiness in his own way. When he returned, it was as an uncle to the new Duchess Nadia, as a frequent inebriate and a roaring soldier who drank as much as he punched. Bare fist fighting was his specialty (and remains so) and while in coming to Arx as part of the Nightgold retinue has made him miss the snows, he came ready to throw himself into the uproarious life of a lesser nobleman in the capital.
life of a lesser nobleman in the capital. +
Born to one of the Isles' most traditional …
Born to one of the Isles' most traditional noble houses, Hazel knew early on that she wasn't going to be the proper young lady that tradition demanded. She studied law and diplomacy, of course - but she studied swordplay as well, watching her brothers' lessons and practicing with sticks, despite the family disapproval for those who stepped outside their appointed places. It all came to a head when in her teens, Hazel lost her temper, picked up a practice sword and gave her brother a humiliating defeat; refusing to be cowed by the threat of denoblement, Hazel left the Isles to make her own way in the world. As a commoner she took the rough with the smooth and trained with the Knights of Solace, though never took the Godsworn vows; after excelling time and time again, and demonstrating loyalty as well as skill during the battles of the Gyre War and at Bastion, she was invited to join the King's Own. The honour given a King's Own knight has persuaded her family to award her their name again, as even if she will never again be a Lady she is at least acknowledged as someone to be proud of across most of Arvum.
meone to be proud of across most of Arvum. +
Born to one of war-like tribes of the Aban …
Born to one of war-like tribes of the Abandoned, the typical convention of brutality and savagery was a poignant reality to Morrighan. Through the ongoing blood feuds between various clans, her parents were lost shortly after her birth, leaving her rearing to the tribe as a whole. She didn't experience a typical childhood for most, existing alone was sheer survival. The more knowledged and skilled members of the group taught her what they could, starting her crude, rudimentary education at a young age. She learned with the volatile state and the constant raids it was kill or be killed, fight or fall, to never give up in the face of adversity and to stand one's ground. For the most part, this served her well, for many a year, in fact - until the pirates came. With the ongoing fighting, chaos flourished, giving the corsairs an opportunity they couldn't ignore. They raided the settlement, pillaging and taking anything of value they could, cutting down anyone who got in their way. Still just a sprite of a child on the cusp of her pre-teen years, Morrighan fought to the best of her ability, though ended up in enemy hands. The scoundrels found her fiery, combative temperament amusing, furthering their resolve to drag her along back to the ship, where she was put to work as a scullery maid. Needless to say, being the hellion she is, a lot of plates were broken, and food may or may not have been tampered with. Time passed and was largely unmeasured, how long exactly she was aboard the vessel is unknown. Eventually, with a misguided sense of assuredness and egotism, the pirates moved to raid a ship in Redrain's coastal waters. It all went awry, ending as what one would describe as a failure of epic proportions. For their crimes of piracy, the crew was hanged; Morrighan was spared. Prince Sherrod of House Redrain took mercy on the young Abandoned, offering to take her in as a ward. With her life spared, she gave an oath of fealty to the noble house that saved her and swore to serve in whatever capacity that was required. The transition was a bit of a shock, a far cry from her life in the tribe and her time aboard the corsair vessel - but she found it terribly intriguing. Despite her place as a servant, Morrighan remained mostly uncultured and somewhat uncivilized, but she learned enough of social etiquette to know when to keep her mouth shut, lest her behavior reflect poorly upon the man that took her in. It was a new world, a foreign environment, and she had to learn a new set of skills in order to survive.
n a new set of skills in order to survive. +
Born to the cold of the frozen north, Raig …
Born to the cold of the frozen north, Raigner began his life of one of the most very base and simple ones. His father was a commoner, having never risen up in his area of the world more than needed to sustain the lowest requirements life could offer to keep a family. Raigner took to a life of manual labor just as his father did, practicing his ability to live off the land, sew, hunt and eventually learned woodworking. This was found to be his stride, and he began working in carpentry to some success, getting a low level of recognition and affiliation with the family Redrain for his skills in architectural departments, and for his get-it-done mentality. This progressed soon into ship building, and he learned a fair bit on how to operate on the sea, as well as how to hold his own against the unkempt kind often found travelling the water with an aged, trusted axe.
lling the water with an aged, trusted axe. +
Born to the constable of a fishing village …
Born to the constable of a fishing village not far from the Grimhall residence at Grihem's Point, Destin was brought up with a healthy respect for the gods, in particular the Sentinel, as well as for the traditions of the Mourning Isles. Thus it was quite the shock when, during his training to take over for his father when the current constable retired, he assaulted the noble that Duke Grimhall had appointed to run the village. In an effort to make an example, showing that no one is above the law, Destin was sentenced to thralldom and his debt purchased by the duke's family. Destin served the family faithfully, mostly without complaint, serving as a model example for other thralls as to how Mourning Isles traditionalists believe that they should act. And ultimately, it was this devoted service that led to him to having his debt absolved by Harald Grimhall, the successor of the duke who had originally sentenced him. Not long after the ascension of the current Grim Duke, Destin put his own life in jeopardy to save the life of one of Harald's younger children when a large, rabid dog attacked her. It would have been difficult for him to return to his old life, though, given that both of his parents had passed on, and a new constable for the village had already been selected. So when Harald offered him a place in the family's house guard, he readily accepted, and continued to serve house Grimhall. It did not take him long to work his way up to commanding the family's guards, leaving him in charge of keeping those of the house who visit Arx safe.
ing those of the house who visit Arx safe. +
Born to the indomitable Adona Malvici long …
Born to the indomitable Adona Malvici long enough after his older brother Hadrian that he might have been an 'oops' baby, Gio's path was marked at birth right on his body. Being born with a twisted spine in any family is difficult, but in the Malvicis, with their emphasis on strength, he was a liability. He learned to walk late. As he grew taller in his teens, his spine twisted further. The pain was constant. Military service was out of the question, and for a member of the ducal line not to do their customary two years of military service was a source of poisonous gossip. At this point, his mother saw the danger for him: her compassion for her youngest son was starting to be perceived as a weakness, and that made him a target. So she did the only thing she could, the best thing she could, for Gio, and also for herself: she declared publicly that because he could not serve in the military, he was no Malvici, and then she sent him away. Privately, Adona and his siblings cared about Gio just as much as they ever had. He was sent away to finish his schooling in a country estate where he wanted for nothing, far enough out of sight that he remained out of the minds of the schemers who might try to use him. Gio had always had a quick mind and a razor wit, but here, with no distractions, he developed these into an education that was both broad and deep. His mother rarely visited at first, but did so more often after she handed the reins of power over to Hadrian. Hadrian defied convention by turning up from time to time even while he was Duke. Calypso, with few worries about politics, came by often to banter and sometimes ask for advice... until she didn't. Gio understood why Calypso stopped showing up after she was thrust into the position of Duchess, a place where he knew very well she would struggle, but he worried about her, especially after her letters stopped coming. Then, one day, the Duchess herself turned up unannounced with a swarm of servants who went about packing Gio's things. When he asked what she was doing, she told him she was done trying to live up to the way their mother wanted the head of Malvici to rule. She was going to do this her way. And she needed him in Arx. Now. So get moving. In that moment, he was more proud of his older sister than he'd ever been, but he was also a little bit worried about her recklessness... worried for her, and worried for himself.
worried for her, and worried for himself. +
Born to the ruling family of Iasu, Vasile …
Born to the ruling family of Iasu, Vasile learned early on both the value of valor and the value of cunning. Like the land of his birth, he grew into a hard man, first as a squire, then eventually as a 'knight' (though the Oathlands may scoff at the concept of an Abandoned 'knight'). If a word were to be given to Vasile, it would be resilient. He has led and fought. He was won and he has lost. But with every defeat, he takes time to learn and to study. The harsh land and the consequences of failure have made him aware of the fact that lives rest in his hand every day. Now, with the death of his father, he has been thrust into the role of primary commander of the Corvini army and is... still grasping at what he might do.
is... still grasping at what he might do. +
Born twenty-five years ago, Amund has lear …
Born twenty-five years ago, Amund has learned from an early age that hardship and misery is the staple of living on the frontier with the Everwinter. The months of famine would bring sickness, the sickness would bring death. His parents fastidiously thought to spare him the worst parts, often to their own detriment. One night, a band of aggressive shavs took the village by storm. The emaciated villagers fought their best, but ultimately they could not stop the wave of violence that would see babies wrenched from mothers' breasts and dashed against walls, fathers put to the sword and mothers speared through their skulls, hanging like ragdolls in the winter snows. The boy, barely twelve, wasn't noticed from his perch on the roof of his house. With nowhere to go, he was forced to fend for himself. Out in the wilds he set out to avoid bands of raiders, foraging what he could from the woods until he found shelter in the next village. After a month of slow and painful recovery from frost exposure, he was nursed back to health and taken in by the village's mayor as a ward. Eventually he became part of the watchers of the town, trained in the sword and the axe before a band of sellswords showed up in town and, after saying his goodbyes to these Whitehold-affiliated villagers, he signed up with them. Their fight against the shav'arvani became ever more violent after he was recruited. Whereas the lieutenants would have consternation for his methods, they couldn't deny that they were effective. Slowly he crawled up the ranks until he made it to Lieutenant. When the general of the company died from a fever, the company disbanded. He became a Champion in ducal courts, his style a favorite of Northern nobles for its sheer ferocity and his disregard for the opponents' safety. If the fight ended in one blow and the opponent lived, then it didn't matter if it was a stab to the gut or a sliced vein that did it. His money was earned, win or lose, and it was time to part ways. But that, too, became a boring endeavor. But the opportunity for money rose again when lord after lord would call for free swords to fight for them in the Silent War. And fight he did. There may have been unspeakable horrors in the line of battle, but he resolutely pressed on and took the fight to them. His remarkable versatility helped make himself quite the name in the field of battle. Once the battle was joined, win or lose, he gave his best; consummate professional that he is, the outcome didn't matter so much as the payment. If the bands of shav'arvani aligned with the Silence were slaughtered to a man, who cared? Moreover, there were times he sought out these tribes in diversion, intent on bleeding their numbers dry. Once again, in the Gyre War, Amund distinguished himself with a seasonal contract with the Setarco military. For those battles, he proved himself gritty enough to be offered a renewal of his contract by a serjeant, which he declined. The lure of fighting against shav'arvani drew him to Arx. So he packed his bags, hoping for business that marries his hatred for the Abandoned with a desire for new thrills.
e Abandoned with a desire for new thrills. +
Born within the Lower Boroughs, Mathias Co …
Born within the Lower Boroughs, Mathias Coaldust lived in squalor for most of his early life. Both parents were poor, both drunk incompetents who couldn't give their children the small mercy of never having been conceived. He was more of a father and mother to his younger brothers and sisters than their parents ever were. While they drank their pay, Mathias worked hard, even as a child, for every scrap of food to feed his family, every piece of cloth to keep them warm in winter. Still, through the hardships, he learned to thrive. The harder it got, the more he pushed back. Must have done something right, for he grew up into a tall, strong man, enough so to catch the attention of a sellsword captain, willing to hire the boy into his company. He learned the trade during that time, till he left to make his own way. With the Lower Boroughs never far from his mind, still he strives ever forward, intent on giving the rest of his siblings a good life, or at least a fair chance at one.
od life, or at least a fair chance at one. +
Born within the Shav tribes of the Northea …
Born within the Shav tribes of the Northeast, Erika was the apple of her father's, Ingemar Blackwood, eye. She looked so much like her mother, who had died giving birth to her. He held no resentment for his wife's death, and while it was hard and clumsy being a single parent, he raised her the best he could, refusing to give her up. And while most would have scorned her reckless childhood adventures, he praised her for the fire of her soul. He taught her everything she knows about surviving in the wilds, and discovering her affinity with animals, assisted her in honing her skill. It resulted in the young girl growing wildly, with strength and passion, and at the early age of 18 she began to assist in hunting, gathering, and exploring the wilds to protect against the dangers of the Heralds, which were a prominent danger. Her journeys away from home alone would grow longer and longer as she honed her skills at survival, but it was on such a journey that Brand and his army came for the Shavs. Her father was killed for opposing him and his barbaric recruitment methods, and Erika returned home too late. Devastated and consumed by rage, the ranger agreed to travel with her cousin Ysbail to the Capital, bringing the tribes with them, to seek justice and rid the world of the evil that preyed upon them. Living in Arx, Erika frequently retreats to the forest to feel closer to her father, and be enveloped by the familiarity of the wilds. But that doesn't mean she doesn't appreciate the civilised world of Arx and its less wild people.
sed world of Arx and its less wild people. +
Bosco had a good upbringing with a family …
Bosco had a good upbringing with a family on the very fringe of nobility in a minor house sworn to Velanosa. An able warrior, he was always quick to the blade and to the fight and learned martialry from his father, and crafting from his mother. He dreamed of being a knight and earning this through valliant effort. And he did. Everyone was proud; young, capable and destined for greatness. It didn't quite work out that way though. Fortunes come and fortunes go, and after an early swing to favour there followed an equally potent downward spiral. A mix of bad decisions, inpugned honour, and a haze additiction culminated (in a long, drawn out episode) in being disowned. There followed a trying period, kicked out of house and home and left to wander. The money dried up, and the addiction couldn't be fueled and hard choices had to be made. The swinging of the pendulum of fortunte led to an apprenticeship with an old master northlander smith in Ischia; the man was childless, and took pity on Bosco, guiding him out of the deep hole he'd fallen into. They developed a mutually beneficial arrangement and Bosco plied a trade as muscle and arms while mastering his trade in the small and soon to be terminated Caputo family. Good times come to an end though, and with the passing of the old man after extended illness, Bosco was left with skills but no venue or patron. He has ultimately travelled to Arx to seek fortune or favour - without the social skills to pursue a business venture of his own, and having a most unfortunate past, he's left to hope that fortune is ready for an upwards swing.
hat fortune is ready for an upwards swing. +
Braelynn Deepwood comes from a long ling o …
Braelynn Deepwood comes from a long ling of people comfortable with the woods and the forest. Though most of her family chooses to remain homebound, Braelynn found at an early age that she enjoyed walks through the forest and learning about the various trees and other plants that grew there. She would often reference them as her "Serenity Walks" and indeed would come back refreshed and relaxed after. Over time that interest in the forests and plants in general only deepened and now she finds herself the go-to expert for all things horticultural among her family and extended family. She was close to her cousin Joxur, and as he moved to the city she enjoyed receiving letters from him. She was particularly proud when he was named Sword of Deepwood, and wrote him a glowing letter of congratulations. But gradually her walks in the forest for serenity proved to not give her the calm she wrapped around her like a cloak, and she grew more and more restless. Until at last she decided the only solution was to go visit her extended family and explore new horizons and new forests - and so she came to Arx.
and new forests - and so she came to Arx. +
Bran became the chieftain of his tribe at …
Bran became the chieftain of his tribe at a young age, and married young as well, having fallen head over heels for one of the tribe's young shaman's and talented weather eye. A beautiful redhead, Gudrun; charming, and bright. For a few years everything seemed great for them, their raids on the Northlanders and Thrax successful, with few casualties and a decent amount of plunder returned with them. They weren't immune from other tribes and clans raiding them, however. It was not long after the birth of their first child, a daughter, Aella, that his wife was taken. He spent a few years trying to find her, not ready to give up. All the while Sorcha, Gudrun's younger sister was helping to raise Aella. Eventually, he was convinced that she was lost, likely dead. And he remarried, taking Sorcha as his new wife. With Sorcha, he had other children, though most didn't have Aella's fiery temperament. Still, he loved them all. Roguish Cadern, inquisitive Rosalind, and collected Triton. He led his tribe as best he could, settling disputes with his neighbors with trade and diplomacy as often as the sword, or at least he tried. When Crovane and Blackwood bent the knee to Redrain however, he sensed the change in the times and knelt with them, before abdicating in favor of his eldest, Aella. It was time for the younger generation to take charge, though he would shepherd them along.
arge, though he would shepherd them along. +
Branimir has outlived his father, the firs …
Branimir has outlived his father, the first War Chief he served, and then his older brother, and now he serves his nephew. All these lords change like the tides but Branimir is the rock that has seen it all and survived it all. Alongside his male kin he's survived 2 wives and a handful of children, though as many still remain and he's content with that. In younger years Branimir was a creature of great violence, he desired blood, victory, and most of all GLORY, until in the same raid that took his brother, he took an axe to the face, lost an eye and nearly died. Something changed while he lay bleeding on the ground trampled by friend and foe both. His blood lust finally quenched while he soaked in his own. After that, he saw the world differently, and where many reavers are consumed by gloom after such grave injuries, Branimir was filled with a new vigor. He also awoke with a belief in the Spirits, leading many of his kin to worry that so nearly dying had cracked Branimir's mind as well as cutting out an eye. He still fights when he must, but rather than being the one to advocate for the sword first, he became the one to call for it last, and there are few whose calls are louder than Branimir One Eye!
se calls are louder than Branimir One Eye! +
Branwen has no memory at all of her format …
Branwen has no memory at all of her formative early years, knowing only what she's been told from those of House Ravenseye. Nearly all of their clan in one night was wiped out, decimated by another tribe of crazed Abandoned. That they obviously weren't sane was probably the only reason she and a very few others survived the massacre. Each of them were hidden underneath the bodies of others, or fallen debris. And made neither a sound, or moved, out of fright and shock. It was a group of scouts from the Stormheart that found them, surveying the damage as they swept through the next day hot on the trail of the perpetrators. Instead of chasing after them though, they stopped to rescue the survivors and brought them back; and now, the Ravenseye are her family. Her quiet, perceptive nature, and her love of solitude brought her under the wings of the Shaman in the group. She took to it quickly, learning both to tend to spiritual ills and those of the body. And when the calling of the Tribe was to come to Arx as ennobled Prodigals, she too bent the knee so she could follow her adopted family and tend to them there. Where she is sure that she will be busy given rumors of things that have happened in and around the city.
that have happened in and around the city. +
Bree and Brannen Harthall were born twins …
Bree and Brannen Harthall were born twins and from the moment they were born their lives were planned out. From early formative years, Bree took to the Valrdin way of life. Chivalry! Duty! However Bree always had a very bright twist on the Valardin way. She was strange, as many Valardins are more reserved and conservative Bree never was. From her childhood she was the most outgoing, the most exuberant, the most enthusiastic. Because there are dragons out there to slay/befriend depending on the particular situation/dragon. Bree loved stories and when playing as a child often got in trouble for being so violent. Her excuse generally was that she needed to see how hard she had to hit in case it wasn't her brother she was fighting but a skeleton risen out of the earth. And so her training began early. Bree took to fighting like a fish to water. While her brother became more tactical, more keen, Bree spent her days training and fighting, interspersed with flower picking, running on the beach or watching the sunset. Though she was driven she never had an issue with the work life balance. Bree has always known how to live, even in her most prepatory years. She also became closely attuned with Gild. She would often talk to the goddess at night, worried about those worse off than her, promising Gild she would help them in the morning. It was Bree's dream to become a Knight of Solace, to protect the weary and downtrodden, but she was destined to become a knight for her house and to serve as a champion of Harthall. Brannen constantly reminded her of her duty, to house first. Unfortunately tragedy struck. In a horse race with the heir of the House, their cousin Odhran, Bree and Brannen witnessed their cousin die in an accident. Stricken by this great tragedy, Brannen finally relented and the two have recently taken their oaths as Godsworn. Foreswearing marriage, titles, children, and have instead recently been inducted as Knights Of Solace. Eager to protect the weary in the City of Arx!
r to protect the weary in the City of Arx! +
Bridget is from a minor noble family, Hous …
Bridget is from a minor noble family, House Mescino of the Lycene barony of Pastrazza. She is a young widow to Elonso of house Pravus. Her marriage had nothing to do with love. It was a formally arranged marriage with the goal of bringing two houses together. It was a marriage that abruptly ended with her husband's death. Upon the return of their widowed daughter, her family broke into chaos. The entire point of the marriage was to settle the dispute of a land claim. It was a minor land claim, but to her house could mean the difference between riches and ruin! The whole thing would have been easier if she had given her husband a sun before he went off and had himself executed. The only logical step to take from here was to send her back to house Pravus as a ward. It was cruel considering they were the ones to execute her late husband, but they didn't have time or resources to deal with a widowed daughter, and there were simply no other logical courses of action to take. What did Bridget think about all of this? Oh who really cares... just send her off!
Oh who really cares... just send her off! +
Brier was born in the north in the middle …
Brier was born in the north in the middle of June as one of the first cousins of the Crovane family. Her mother was Ingrid and married into the Crovanes, while her father was Kheit Crovane. She was quick to become known for being one of the biggest handfuls out of the Crovane family's children, one who was quick to barrel into trouble just for the fun of it or to otherwise make sure that no one doubted her just because she was a 'young lady'. Her family, knowing that she would need an outlet to contain her energy and distract her, encouraged her to spend some time with the blacksmith of the village. There she tended to some apprentice-like duties and found that she loved the craft. Enthralled by working in the forge, Brier soon became less of a problem and grew into a fine young woman. There was a time that her family encouraged her to marry a young man of a neighboring territory, and so she and Yldimer were married in the winter months near her twentieth birthday. They spent ten years living happily together, but were unable to bear any new heirs due to him being secretly barren. Unfortunately, he fell three years ago in defending the north. For years she was stricken by grief, until her mother and father encouraged her to try a change of scenery and so she moved to Arx with hopes of being able to leave behind her past.
es of being able to leave behind her past. +
Bright, charming, born to Valardin, and gi …
Bright, charming, born to Valardin, and gifted with a beautiful voice, Princess Adrienne might have been a storybook princess come to life. She knows, however, that fairy tales are for children. This knowledge has been painfully earned, brick by brick, as she has attended to the aftermath of raids and massacres, wars and illness with a Mercy's training so easily acquired in Sanctum. Adrienne left a courtier's life to others of her family and joined those with their hands in the dirt: a duty to her family name and a calling - or better perhaps described as a prayer - to be able to prevent suffering before it strikes. She has travelled the Oathlands to maintain her family's presence, listening to the needs of the many vassals and small villages in her purview. She has also studied wherever time and location would permit. Sanctum is a haven of knowledge, but the many Valardian domains have also invested heavily in education. Ignorance, when such resources are available, is a terrible sin. There is still work to be done in the Oathlands, but as the world turns its eyes to Arx, so must Princess Adrienne Valardin. Trouble brews. She would go there to stop it if she can.
She would go there to stop it if she can. +
Brigida has lived through it all. When sh …
Brigida has lived through it all. When she was a girl, she was as fine a hunter, dancer, and player of music as any lady of the Lyceum. She was not the most beautiful of her sisters but she was clearly the most accomplished. At sixteen, she was the Golden Rose of Tor, and she had lovers on her string at twenty ranging from all over the Compact. But all idylls end. Brigida joined the Faith relatively late -- at 24 -- in part to avoid a disastrous marriage she did not want that would have sent her to the Laurents. She had no desire to join the workhorse duchy of the Valardins. Instead, she cast aside the silks of her wild life as the Golden Rose of Tor, and threw herself into a new life as a priestess. She had a solid background of Lyceum politics to bring with her to the priesthood along with genuine faith for the gods and a healthy respect for the power structures here that she could potentially grow into. She had already survived at least three poisonings before she donned her first robe. She learned quickly that the machinations of the priests were different in form from those of Lycene politics but not in kind. Ambitious people jockey for position everywhere, and the Faith is no exception. By the time she was 40, she was such a mainstay of the priests of Petrichor that there were few other names that could even be considered for his Archlector. Yet at this pinnacle she chose to stay, leading the godsworn and championing the guardian of the land rather than attempting to politic any higher.
her than attempting to politic any higher. +
Brought up alongside those of her cousins …
Brought up alongside those of her cousins in the ducal line of succession, Odile never knew a girlhood home but the one beneath House Nightgold's famed rose-gold arches. Viewed from the mountaintops, it was the seasonal changing of Stonedeep's landscapes that woke her to Lagoma's vast, beauteous influence and what, like her mother before her, prompted her to find purpose as a Mercy. The devastation caused by mining injuries alone meant she was often occupied, sometimes required to brave the darkest caverns and stalest pockets of air to do her work. It ought to have come as no surprise that her strength of conviction translated into a fortuitous match. She was betrothed to the heir of House Aviaron. Only, the prospect of being the next Marquessa-Consort didn't appeal to her at all. She was far from fond of her husband-to-be and she resented even more being (inevitably) reduced to marriage fodder. While it was easy enough to play the role of apologist for the Northern beliefs of her family and friends, she couldn't stomach the idea of being wed to anyone who practiced them so openly. It might have been a different story if the Aviarons were at all willing to tone it down! In the eyes of her family, she proved ungrateful and even obstinate. ...that is not to say she was any less horrified at the news of the man's ultimate end and that of his kin. Those deaths and the subsequent carnage she experienced during the Silent War did more than simply reinforce for her the power and necessity of her role as a healer. They highlighted for Odile her responsibilities to her House, all of whom could have been lost to her just as easily. With her mourning period behind her and a great deal more in the way of perspective, Odile comes to Arx for promised and much needed change.
o Arx for promised and much needed change. +
Bryndis is the youngest of five, and has a …
Bryndis is the youngest of five, and has always been a curious child. She would often go out of her way to explore the world around her, from outside the home to the darkest of corners within the home. She would watch the animals, study the bugs, draw the flowers and trees that she saw in her world. There was not much that did not interest her, both in the animate things around her, or the inanimate as well. Just because a flower was often more beautiful than a rock doesn't mean that the rock itself didn't hold its own very special place in her world. By the time she was ten she had books and books of drawings, each year they got better, more apt to actually resemble what it was that she was exploring and studying. She would watch and listen to others that were more knowledgeable about art, flora and fauna, and take in everything they offered. As she grew older she knew that it was very clear to her what she was going to do with her life. Some thought she'd become a healer or midwife. But she didn't want to do anything like that, she was very interested in the properties of the plants, of course, but even alchemy and apothecary studies weren't number one on her list outside of just curiosity. No, it was actually learning just about the world around her. How things fit together, why you'd find one particular animal and plant in one location, but find just the animal, or the plant, in another. It was when she was almost nineteen that she grew ill, ill to the point that everyone was sure that she'd die. But something changed, one night she was on her death bed, and the next morning she was up and moving around as though nothing was ever wrong. She's never really had any explanation for that, but her entire outlook on life seems to have changed after that night. She was more direct, less interested in books, more forgetful than she once was.
n books, more forgetful than she once was. +
Brynja was born in the wild lands, beyond …
Brynja was born in the wild lands, beyond the bounds of what most consider civilization, the eldest child of Sigurd Blackwood. Her mother passed away when she was young, dying under mysterious circumstances, and leaving her father heartbroken. As a way of honoring her memory and helping himself recover from his grief, Sigurd taught Brynja the ways of the warrior as soon as she could stand, and she has been on that path ever since. Her father would eventually find love again and remarry. As she blossomed into a young woman, word of her deeds spread among the tribes, and she gained notoriety for her unrelenting ferocity in battle. Many great men made many great excuses when she bested them in combat, but Brynja had hardly a care -- you don't get very far with excuses. When Tolamar Brand came to assault their lands and enslave their people, Brynja was on the front lines, commanding the Blackwood infantry. She performed well, even if she received another scar or two. She was less thrilled at the notion of becoming a silk when her family decided to bend the knee to House Crovane. She will just have to make do.
e Crovane. She will just have to make do. +
By all accounts, Hiram Kelly came from goo …
By all accounts, Hiram Kelly came from good stock and a family that loved him well. For a commoner, his father was an apothecary held in high regard and his mother was an actress who never made it past the local entertainment. Local, of course, was somewhere halfway between Graypeak and Fen de Lire in a booming settlement called Graveway. His parents adored him, his mother in particular. He was her darling child and she was the reason he fell in love with books at such an early age, always encouraged to read any he could get his hands on. Orla Kelly could also be stern in the name of her only son as well, it wasn't an entirely spoiled childhood. She was ever on her son about his manners, believing that wherever etiquette started to unravel so too did the rest of society. When she passed, it was a great blow to the Kelly family and while it broke her husband, it pushed her son deeper into his devotion to books in order to cope with so many good memories now stained with the pain of loss. For a time, Hiram earned a living for himself as a wandering scholar with a talented hand for the quill and an inability to stay put. He was known as a restless soul amongst the villages and cities of the Crownlands through which he passed often and without ever staying for long. His polished mannerisms found many doors open for him but he only longed for the one that he could close on the ache that lived somewhere deep down in his soul. Everyone knows a stiff drink goes best with a good book and eventually Hiram learned that too. Drinking was a fine bandage for a while but when it started to unravel he found other medicines to soothe his old wounds. Expensive medicines too rich for a wandering scholar's blood. Where there is intoxication it usually isn't hard to find games of chance to get in on and in gambling Hiram at least found a way to double or triple his silver when he needed something stronger than a wash of whisky or elsewise. Not only that, he was good at it. In time it became hard to justify putting words to parchment to make a living when he could do it so much better with some dice or some cards. Eventually Hiram Kelly disappeared and it was easy enough for those familiar with him to think that he had finally found himself in the kind of tough spot that his gentleman's demeanor couldn't get him out of. Like bad news though he always turns up again and though he'd been gone for well over a year he showed up back in the Crownlands thirstier than ever to keep on in his hard-drinking and heavy-gambling ways, now nursing a mysterious wasting illness that left him an absolute puzzle to some of the finest physicians in those territories along with the kind of irreverence that often trails the walking dead when every step could be their last. Not to mention the unusual inkwork of an Abandoned nature that he now sported on one hand. Some might say it was that discourteous canny that delighted Glenys Ashford when the pair crossed paths at a little inn and tavern on Ashford lands. Others might say it was her keen mind for medicine that kept her at his side after she patched him up from a particularly bad bet with the wrong men and learned more of his mysteries. The truth is likely somewhere in the middle but only Glenys could tell you for sure.
e but only Glenys could tell you for sure. +
By the time the second daughter and third …
By the time the second daughter and third child rolled around no one was really that impressed with children in general and definitely not with another girl. So Babette was mostly left to nannies and tutors and her own devices and she absolutely and totally thrived. Being the youngest meant that she had to be loud and somewhat pushy to get attention and she did that by just constantly talking. Non-stop. Her cheerful but endless chatter endeared her to even the hardest of hearts at home, although when she got to be too much she was shuffled off to the library. Babette would dive into the lore of the Crownlands, soaking up everything she could, learning the old ghost stories and tales of the surrounding forests and organizing ghost hunts with her older siblings that would both terrify and intrigue her. When her cousins came to visit she would cook up mysteries for them to solve and was often the scourge of Varan's existence as it was always him that was stealing the cookies from the cookie jar. She learned of the Inquisition at a young age and was determined to join once she was old enough, throwing herself into her studies so that she could impress them once she got there. As Jerrica and Varan set out on their own paths, Babette decided to be a little more dramatic and, in the dark of night, hid herself and her bag in a passing carriage bound for the city. By the time she was discovered it was too late to turn around and her first stop with her bag in hand was the House of Questions as soon as she arrived in Arx.
f Questions as soon as she arrived in Arx. +
By thirty-five, Akio should have been some …
By thirty-five, Akio should have been someone. He should have married for the honor of his house or to stir his own ambitions and climb the social ladder. He should have been among the ranks of the Children, running across the rooftops of the capital city. By thirty-five, Akio's name should be known to more than just his family and friends, but to his father's disappointment it was not. Akio seemed to have none of the same ambitions that had driven his family the ranks of middle nobility in the Undying Empire. This was not to say that Akio had done nothing with his life. He had spent it as a scholar, chasing a discovery that might one day put his name on the tongues of important people. The problem he found was that most of the important discoveries in the Empire had already...well, been discovered. At least that was his excuse. The beaurocracy made sure everything was well documented. The scribes of Vellichor picked up what slack was left. If you wanted to know something, you just went to the library. Then came Arvum. Then came Copper's death and the year of mourning, and everything for Akio changed. Suddenly he had a chance to docment what the Empire did not have. Suddenly he had a chance to study what Platinum did not already know. And maybe if he could return home with the results of the Platinum Shift documented, then he could find a reward worthy of his father's praise. And so he was sent with Xia, Jian, and Nyima as part of the delegation to Arx. Now he serves as Chronicler and Accountant while working his private research.
untant while working his private research. +
Cabrera was a beautiful boy, the pride of …
Cabrera was a beautiful boy, the pride of his parents. He was born large and strapping, and grew quickly. But he grew in the backdrop of chaos and war, and his parents were cut down in their prime. His mother was a knight-captain who laid down her life for Fidante in the Tor-Southport war, and his father was brutally crippled in the aftermath of the fighting; though young, he simply was in no state to care for himself, let alone his son. There was no family left who could take care of this young boy whose parents had had such high hopes for his brilliant future, so the Seraph of Tor brought him to the Faith, that he might be raised with the children who knew no other family. A child who ran and scampered among the servants of the Rectory, fitting into strange places and exploring weird corners was young Cabrera's raison d'etre. He was too young to squire when he first came to the Church-- a child, five years of age -- but somehow he managed to get places and make himself useful. His bright eyes and raffish smile were weapons of war he waged upon the Faith. He was everyone's gopher and no one's; a disciple of the Church when he was far too young to be so. He wasn't the only child of the Faith, but he was certainly one of the most vibrant. As a teen, he came to understand how he lost his family, and he was reactive about it, fierce and hotheaded and miserable. He tried to get into duels about it, but the Lycenes he challenged knew better than to duel a boy of his years, and he was given a hiding and sent back to the Rectory. He screamed his outrage at anybody who would listen, and one of the priests -- the same Seraph who had brought him from Tor -- took him back to the Lyceum to visit the grave of the cripple who had been his father. When he returned again to Arx and the service of the Church, he was a quieter, more thoughtful version of himself. While the mischief and warmth returned to him, and he would never lose the laughter or the quickness of his wits, the Cabrera who recognized the indelible part that loss had played in his development was a more sober, serious one, with a fierce understanding of what it was to be loyal to a cause, and a deep-seated recognition of the horrors of war. He squired with the templars as a youth, and as a man, he took his oaths in service to the Faith, and enlivened their quarters with lively cheer, an upbeat attitude, and a sense of humor that danced between classic soldierly raunchiness and more obscure absurdism. Resourceful and clever, Cabrera lived by his tongue and his wits, and in more than one campaign, served the Faith with sword and shield, putting his life on the line gladly in service of something greater than himself.
service of something greater than himself. +
Cadenza Velenosa, eldest of a lesser line …
Cadenza Velenosa, eldest of a lesser line of Velenosa princes and princesses, was not a very good Lycene. As a child, she did not take to her political lessons. She was frank, forthright to the point of tactlessness, and had a knack for taking exactly the wrong point from her teachers and running away with it out of sheer stubbornness. Iron will in a nine year old can be difficult to deal with, particularly an active nine year old with a seemingly endless ability to get into things. Her father was a Zaffria, and while on a trip to visit relatives at Crowned Hill, their party was attacked by an Abandoned raiding party, and Cadenza learned a lesson about heroic recklessness: that is, that if you're going to hero recklessly, you have to pick your moment, and preferably, be older than eleven. She came away from the fight half an orphan; her mother died fighting in defense of her father, and her father brutally injured defending Cadenza, and it was a lesson she never forgot. As an adult, she remembered what she'd learned about timing, but she never let it hold her back. She sailed forth with her cousin Antonio and learned the ropes, and then set forth all the further, sailing through the Mourning Isles. Allegedly she was seeking a potential alliance with House Thrax, a potential match for one of the young princes, but she slipped loose the leash and sailed still further, disappearing off the map for awhile. She turned up again far afield in Arvum on a wild adventure where she either rescued or was rescued by Lou Grayson, or maybe it was mutual. It was neither the first nor the last time that Cadenza mysteriously made herself vanish only to reappear again later with tales of dramatic nonsense and half-truths. When Lady Aislin launched her Society of Explorers, Cadenza was only not an early adopter because she was spending a month trapped in the basement of a ruined temple to Gild in the hinterlands of the Oathlands, living on an unfortunate diet of roast rat and buried roots while she tried to work out a series of absurdly confusing puzzles that would have made a lot more sense if you could remember all Thirteen gods. During the Silent War, Cadenza would have fought for the Lyceum gladly, but instead, she had accidentally gotten herself temporarily sold as a prisoner of one piratical group of Abandoned to another, following the loss of her ship to a raid. She only escaped by dumb luck and someone else's stray arrow fortuitously striking the gut of the guy who held her chain. So it was that, in trying to make her way back to Arx, speaking a mangled polyglot of several Abandoned languages badly, she has only turned up again on the shore of Southport honestly confused about how she'd arrived, with a fresh scar on her neck from someone trying to kill her for no reason she could explain, and the worst part is she had no good story to show for it.
t is she had no good story to show for it. +
Cadern was a rapscallion. A scavenger of a …
Cadern was a rapscallion. A scavenger of attention. A thirsty little sneak who made it his business to get into things. He cherished freedom, the freedom to run amok, and clashed frequently with his older sister, with whom he had a seriously healthy sibling rivalry, especially when both were too young to temper themselves particularly. The shamans of the Ravenseyes knew what to do with a boy who wanted to get into trouble, though, and found ways to occupy him, to turn his impish mischief to good account, and to train him so that his garrulousness and wit could one day be used to the advantage of their family. He chafed at being second to Aella, especially when the House first bent the knee to the Compact. He had hoped that swearing fealty to Redrain would mean casting aside old traditions and leaping whole-heartedly into a new life, a new culture, with the people of Farhaven whose arms would surely open wide to welcome them now that they were oath brethren. He had a few rude awakenings early on before settling into his new role, and still twitches restlessly for chances to prove himself. Which sometimes means, to this day, that he has to talk himself out of a tight spot. Luckily, he always did have a glib tongue.
Luckily, he always did have a glib tongue. +
Caelis is a cousin to the main branch of H …
Caelis is a cousin to the main branch of House Malvici. A student of herbalism, she took great joy in learning each plant and it's uses in the gardens of Southport. When herbalism wasn't enough she learned the craft of a soldier and sailor. Spending most of her late teens and young adult years on a ship, she's risen recently to Maritime Captain and uses her travels to collect and find rare herbs from port to port as well as stories of the old days. Recent trouble has recalled her to Arx to support the family and bolster alliances.
support the family and bolster alliances. +
Cai Jian grew up among the wealth and priv …
Cai Jian grew up among the wealth and privilege of minor nobility. She was educated enough to show a swift mind; tutored enough to be a gifted orator; and beloved enough by her mother and father to be thought the heir to the family name and the carrier of all of its honor. But Cai Jian knew that was not what she would do. She knew it from an early age, everytime she stood on the balconies of Daobujin Bo and looked across the city streets with their perfect makeup, their lack of crime, their lack of poverty. Cai Jian knew that she had a role to play in bringing perfection beyond the capital city and that she would do so with the grace granted by the Thirteen. When the time came, Cai Jian joined the priesthood and spent her time in study, in contemplation. She learned patience. She learned giving. She learned that some people needed the kind of help that offering a bowl of rice could never achieve. Cai Jian took to heart the lessons she was taught. And when Cai Jian heard a delegation was being sent to Arvum, she knew she had to go. It called to her, pulled at her. The delegation would need spiritual guidance, and so would the people of Arvum.
uidance, and so would the people of Arvum. +
Cai follows a long line of hunters, ranger …
Cai follows a long line of hunters, rangers, warrior and other woodsy-type from his family. It's what his family was good at, so he followed suit, and found his life richer for it. Didn't seem like it was even an question when he was a boy, and now that the years have passed, when he looks back to what could've been, he's since decided that he couldn't think of anything else he'd rather do. He can remember back to a time when they had no association with the Compact. While he might've been happier to have nothing to do with them, it's not like he held any kind of negative feelings toward them either. Things change, it's a constant in nature. Just as the world changes through seasons, so do people, mentalities, and all those other kind of things that he only cares to a certain degree about. He always respected the leadership in place before the Compact, so he followed suit along with the rest of them. For the the majority, it hasn't had a great impact on his life. Still in the woods, still hunts, still does what he's always done. Until he had to relocate to Arx with the rest of the Greenmarch brood. Not the biggest fan of the city life, but it could be worse. Thing changes, and nature seems to abhor things staying the same for too long.
bhor things staying the same for too long. +
Cailean Grimes grew up in the Lower Burrou …
Cailean Grimes grew up in the Lower Burroughs, the slums. He was the only living child of widower and a thief, Donnal Grimes. He was never expected to be much more than his father was but Cailean had natural talent and ambition. He was known for his pretty face and even prettier singing voice. His father took note and began to steal instruments which the bright Cailean taught himself to play. Eventually, a noble took notice while visiting his lover and took the boy under his wing. Soon, life became a whirlwind as he began to attend schools of Courtesans. As usual, Cailean was a natural and took to the life like a duck to water.
and took to the life like a duck to water. +
Calarian was born yet another Grayson cous …
Calarian was born yet another Grayson cousin amidst the usual gaggle of princes and princesses. He grew up a bright and curious child, and his knack for ingratiating himself with others was both a blessing and somewhat of a trouble; no one likes a six-year-old with a talent for negotiation. But as he grew, his family was able to direct him quite firmly to a role within the house that always needs filling: diplomacy. His life as an adult became filled with travel -- both to the houses of the Compact within Arvum and the Abandoned houses outside his family's rule. When the Bringer threat became imminent, he was tasked with dragging every single Abandoned fighter he could manage to wrangle to join in the fight. The Gold Feathers to the north of Grayson's claimed lands offered a sizable fighting force that he knew the Compact desperately needed, and so when the Chieftan declared his requirement that his daughter wed into the Grayson family, there wasn't exactly time to take back the offer and shuffle through prospective husbands for her. And so when Calarian returned with Abandoned reinforcements for the Compact army, it was also with a brand new wife. You work with what you have, after all.
e. You work with what you have, after all. +
Calarian was born yet another Grayson cous …
Calarian was born yet another Grayson cousin amidst the usual gaggle of princes and princesses. He grew up a bright and curious child, and his knack for ingratiating himself with others was both a blessing and somewhat of a trouble; no one likes a six-year-old with a talent for negotiation. But as he grew, his family was able to direct him quite firmly to a role within the house that always needs filling: diplomacy. His life as an adult became filled with travel -- both to the houses of the Compact within Arvum and the Abandoned houses outside his family's rule. When the Bringer threat became imminent, he was tasked with dragging every single Abandoned fighter he could manage to wrangle to join in the fight. The Gold Feathers to the north of Grayson's claimed lands offered a sizable fighting force that he knew the Compact desperately needed, and so when the Chieftan declared his requirement that his daughter wed into the Grayson family, there wasn't exactly time to take back the offer and shuffle through prospective husbands for her. And so when Calarian returned with Abandoned reinforcements for the Compact army, it was also with a brand new wife. You work with what you have, after all. But Calarian did not have his wife for long. The Gold Feathers fought and died alongside the Compact's army, and Peregrine ranked among the fallen when the Bringers were finally repelled. He worked stabilize the Compact afterward, helping secure a treaty with the Nox'alfar to prevent future threats, and continued to serve both Grayson and the Crown by throwing himself into his work as a Voice and a diplomat. However, after a quiet courtship he married Marquessa Dominique Wyrmguard, setting aside his Grayson bonds to join one of the Oathlands' oldest houses in a marked departure from his former path.
n a marked departure from his former path. +
Calathane is a son of an old Baron in the …
Calathane is a son of an old Baron in the fiefdom of Redrain, Hargthon Drumenach. Having decided his son needed new expereinces and to increase his knowledge of the other houses, he has sent him off to Arx. The boy grew up near the mountain ranges closer to shore and bay there known for it's ability to recieve imports and for the ability to send foeces down the coast or up futher into the northern wastelands of ice and snow. Known for his stoic resolve and love for the Queen of Games that he has been playing since he was young and has had some contact with others playing in the courts of his father.
thers playing in the courts of his father. +
Calaudrin was born in Setarco, the son of …
Calaudrin was born in Setarco, the son of a silk merchant and her husband, whose profession was probably something but by the time Calaudrin was old enough to understand adults, he was under the general impression that that profession was /layabout/. His mother frequently traveled, and he went with her, seeing the world with early cynicism, particularly when at the age of 12 he noticed that his mother was regularly cheating her clients and the noble family she worked for and pretty much everyone else. She was eventually caught, as criminals frequently are, and Calaudrin escaped the resultant potential chaos mainly by voting with his feet as only a commoner can: he lied about his age and voted with his feet, reporting to the Arx guards as though he was 18 instead of 16, as a particularly tall and cynical youth; nobody looked too closely at this until years later when he was already well-situated as a fixture of the guardhouse. See, because Calaudrin was good at it. Many young people believe themselves to be cynical, but Calaudrin found from early on that the most depressing thing about his cynicism is that it kept being outstripped by real life. He learned to read people and, generally, to find which things about people he was better off not knowing, even in the pursuit of an investigation. There are a lot of dark and nasty secrets in an old city full of such high levels of wealth, and Calaudrin learned to balance when to latch onto a problem like a terrier and dig and dig and dig, and when policework was best a synonym for 'having a smoke in a quiet corner out of the wet'. Having reached a sturdy Lieutenant's rank, Calaudrin has become a capable administrator, a master of the dire weapons of sarcasm and applied rudeness -- different from unapplied rudeness in that it is selective -- and a very, very good detective ... when he chooses to exert himself.
tive ... when he chooses to exert himself. +
Calevaro was born as the son of a wealthy …
Calevaro was born as the son of a wealthy merchant, his mother having died at his birth. Due to his father's profession, he had to travel a lot, leaving Calevaro in the hands of capable servants. As the boy grew older, he started to develope an interest for combat, atempting to learn how to use every kind of weapon, not just the sword. When he became an adult, at the age of 18, Calevaro decided it was time for him to finally make something with his life, eagerly joining the Valardin military. His trainers and fellow soldiers would describe him as a compassionate man, who wasn't willing to ask of someone what he wouldn't do himself. It was at the military that Calevaro found his calling: He loved to serve and to fight for a cause. His dedication eventually rewarded him with the rank of officer, a very public and personal triunf for the young man.
lic and personal triunf for the young man. +
Caliban is an unrepentant prodigal, someth …
Caliban is an unrepentant prodigal, something which hasn't earned him any particular goodwill, though he blends enough with the rest of the common rabble that it can be quite easily overlooked. Just where he actually came from is a question without an answer. For the most part, this is because people don't particularly care to ask, even those whose jobs often involve doing the asking. In quiet contrast to his easygoing nature, there's a certain, clinging sense about the man that speaks clear: don't bother this one. He's truly not worth the trouble.
his one. He's truly not worth the trouble. +
Calliope is the only child to Eugine Grimh …
Calliope is the only child to Eugine Grimhall. Her father was known to be cruel and difficult, so her childhood was not easy. Calliope's natural talents lean towards the scholarly, leading her to be educated in the ways of investigation and researching information. She has been known to use her skills for profit, if a puzzle is brought to her, she will do her utmost to find any information helpful. There are rumours that she dabbles in the crafts as well, but it wasn't permitted in her family. Before her death, Eugine had made it known that she would entertain offers of marriage for her daughter, whether Calliope was interested or not.
r, whether Calliope was interested or not. +
Cambria was born an only child, much to th …
Cambria was born an only child, much to the disappointment of her parents, who wished for a large family. To make matters worse, Cambria was a sickly youth, so there were plenty of concerns and two or three scares during her early years. Not too long after her tenth birthday, Cambria's father died during a hunting accident. Her mother refused to remarry, and remained a widower. Some said it was for love, while others claimed it was to consolidate her power and make sure her daughter was in a position to assume the mantle of rulership after her, even if it wasn't what was best for the House. Life passed, uneventfully enough, and Cambria grew into a young woman. Though no longer prone to bouts of illness, it could not be said she was very robust. Thus, while other young nobles were making their journey to Arx due to necessity or to expand their education, Cambria's mother was too fearful, and kept her close to home. It was quite likely that Cambria never would have left Ostria, except that fate had other designs. At twenty-three, Cambria's mother fell ill and died suddenly, leaving her daughter free to spread her wings and choose the course of her own life. She promptly left for Arx, one of the first Mazetti to do so in many generations. Once within the capital, Cambria immediately set about maneuvering herself in such a way as to further an audacious goal. Making use of all the political tools and resources available to her, the then Marquessa secured a favorable marriage and wasted little time in promoting a series of progressive reforms for the city-state of Ostria. In the span of a few short years, House Mazetti was formally recognized as a Ducal House before the Assembly of Peers held in the spring of 1012 AR. This is only the start of her story...
. This is only the start of her story... +
Camilla was born a bastard, the fruit of a …
Camilla was born a bastard, the fruit of a one-night affair between a Lady Madeline Pravus and a foreign noble. As a child Camilla was taught how to read and write by her mother, and was well on her way to learn other languages when Madeline's rapidly-deteriorating mental health took her agency and wits. Before the young girl was ten, the Pravosi noble was a shell of her former self, a husk mumbling in bed about the man who had taken her heart away. In the night when Lady Madeline finally lost her ability to communicate, withdrawing further and further within herself, Camilla was desolated. Along with the servants she stared as her noble mother was tended to by the local physicians, and seared in her mind were the sights of one of House Pravus' best reduced to nothing. Camilla could not reconcile with the fact there was nothing she could do, but before her anguish was turned to action the girl was approached by an envoy of the House of Silken Sighs of Setarco. The woman sat with Camilla and they talked throughout the night. Come the dawn, the courtier offered Camilla tutelage in the House free of charge, pleased with the conversation. None would know the nature of this conversation for years to come. The Pravosi bastard's time at the House of Silken Sighs is not publicly known, but it was, supposedly, shock full of its own trials, failures and successes. Whatever her exploits, Camilla left the place an educated courtier and the woman she is today, hailed far and wide as the best alumni of the school in decades. To those who have seen her talents, Camilla is a soulful fury with uncompromising artist vision, a desireable artiste who, once, was just a bastard, and now saw her contract acquired by the Duchess of Pravus herself. No more a simple bastard, the woman is now a highly-sought courtier whose's fame is not insubstantial. She is finally ready to meet her family, and join the Sins in Arx.
meet her family, and join the Sins in Arx. +
Candice Corvo was the middle child in her …
Candice Corvo was the middle child in her family, right between two older brothers and two younger brothers, and went on every adventure they did. She was a tomboy terror growing up, stealing sheep (temporarily), getting into fights (often), and carrying wares from the market to her parents inn (heavy). When her brothers game of age, they enlisted in the watch. When Candice came of age, she took her sword and went straight to one of the caravans and sold herself as a guard. She's ridden riverboats laden with goods to Bastion, frozen on the edges of the Everwinter, and chased thieves through the southern city states of the Lyceum. And for ten years, the adventure and the pay were enough. Then she met Sam and everything changed. They were instantly inseparable--which caused a lot of problems because Sam was an exceptionally good thief and the Velenosians had already made a less than stellar impression on the trading caravan. They needn't have worried; she gave Sam an ally, and they tempered her tendency to violence with cunning. They married and traveled together with the caravan on their way to Arx. This is the part everyone knows, and nobody talks about: shav brigands attacked the convoy, setting the tents and wagons on fire in the middle of the night. There were screams and violence and blood, and in the end the regimented caravan was reduced to a handful of grimfaced survivors. Sam wasn't among them. There's a small band of survivors who get together and share a drink every year, and every year Candice drinks with them.
, and every year Candice drinks with them. +
Candido was born the middle of three child …
Candido was born the middle of three children in a more-stable-than-not commoner family in the city-state of Lenosia. His mother, a city guard, was the primary backbone of the household (and the person who first taught him to fight). His father was a bard in a struggling mummer's troupe that toured the Lyceum and Crownlands and was largely absent, if well-meaning when he was around. His parents never married, but it was a decent collection of relations and Candido never went hungry or felt unloved. The turning point in his life came when the Pirate King called the Gyre descended on Setarco. Candido wasn't old enough to go to war himself (and may not have anyhow, his life had limited direction), but his older sister Eugenia had joined Velenosa's army and was sent to fight. Though the Compact ultimately carried the day, Eugenia was among the slain. This was the biggest tragedy in his life up to that point and, when the dust settled, Candido felt the urge to throw himself into something vaguely meaningful. To give his mother one less thing to worry about if nothing else. He started volunteering with the Faith's rebuilding efforts, which led to him becoming a disciple of Gild, which led to him taking his vows as a godsworn brother when he was 19. Growing up he'd been an inattentive adherent (at best) to the Pantheon, but the work crystallized his view of the Faith as a way to both do something that mattered externally and get right with himself internally. And a way to make his own path in the world. The Faith as a social force offered opportunities to a common boy with both martial and interpersonal skills that few other vocations could. He squired to a Knight of Solace not long after taking his vows and acquitted himself well enough to earn a knighthood a couple years later. His personal convictions are heavily Lycene Liberal, though he's learned how to go along to get along with the Orthodox that make up so much of the Faith Militant, and he's served with general competence for the last several years. His latest assignment has taken him to Arx. What he'll make of it remains to be seen.
What he'll make of it remains to be seen. +
Cantus is the type of person to get into t …
Cantus is the type of person to get into trouble for all the right reasons. The wrong reasons? In any case, it's almost because he saw someone that decided they needed help, whether or not they agreed. But it's okay! Sometimes they actually do need helping. He had been taking a walk, as Cantus was wont to do, and stumbled upon a brigand harassing a poor old man. After that, a couple that needed a wagon wheel replaced. Depending on how he's feeling at the telling, either he felt the spirit of wandering the world, helping folks, ooooor far more likely Cantus found himself lost, shrugged, and decided to embrace this new adventure.
and decided to embrace this new adventure. +
Caprice often receives praise as being one …
Caprice often receives praise as being one of the most promising talents in tailoring from the Lyceum, but she has never felt quite comfortable with the assessment. She is, foremost, simply an artist who demonstrates her talents by weaving fabrics into stunning fashions as her chosen medium of expression. From a very early age, she felt called to be one of the chosen of Jayus, feeling a spark of inspiration from the Prince of Stories. Even as a child she would idle by shrines of Jayus and toy with dyes and clothes, working ever more elaborate colorations and blends of fabric. As a young woman, her talent was quickly recognized, and at a very young age she has been given the immense honor of being appointed the tailor of House Velenosa. Caprice is fully aware that her position might well be one of the most coveted of any tailor in all of Arvum. The Lyceum are the height of fashion for the entire Compact, after all, and House Velenosa is the height of fashion for the Lyceum. But the knowledge does not trouble her unduly She is, in her opinion and without any feelings of conceit, divinely inspired.
ny feelings of conceit, divinely inspired. +
Cara was born a daughter of House Rubino, …
Cara was born a daughter of House Rubino, blessed by fortune with good teeth and a steady mind. A quick study, her interest in things intellectual blossomed as she recovered from an unfortunate accident -- a fire, which left her with burn scars on her legs and a lengthy healing period. Quiet -- but not especially shy -- the young lady showed promise in the arts of diplomacy and the study of history, eventually growing into a maiden well-suited to gracing a parlor or fine dining hall and engaging in polite conversation. She married a cousin of House Ashford and left the Lyceum for greener climes, adjusting with relative grace to the very different life, and seemingly through luck finding true happiness with her husband -- until he was tragically discovered among the slain of the king's retinue. How she will adapt to this change in her life, and her position among her new house and her old, remains to be seen.
new house and her old, remains to be seen. +
Caras Wyrmguard was born in the fortress c …
Caras Wyrmguard was born in the fortress city of House Wyrmguard, Blancbier. On the northern marches of the Oathlands, Blanbier is an important bastion protecting Sanctum from the heathen shavs of the north. As a young man, Caras showed great proficiency in martial training. This is not unusual for the sons and daughters of the Oathlands but Caras took to his training with great passion and vigor. Not simply a soldier or knight, but a student of the blade, his first campaign came at a relatively young age. While he played little part as a mere boy, he knew at the time that his life would be a constant battle - and he loved it. A careless and dismissive young man, he was selfish and self-centered. Haughty and superior. Few friends, little love of or for the people of the Wyrmguard lands or his family's retainers, he sought only glory for himself. A life of battle and death and harship. This was not the life he was destined to lead, however. A small unit commanded by the young lord was ambushed on patrol, nearer the road than they had expected. Not wanting to die for their selfish lord, the other men retreated and left Caras to his own fate. Though he fought well and bravely, he was cut down and left for dead on the road, alone in the cold. It was hours before anyone came along and he thought it a specter. A vision of a goddess offering succor and kindness, healing and protection. It was no entity but a Priestess of Gild. She gave him shelter and nursed him back to health. When he returned to Blancbier he found the men who had abandoned him had concocted a story that was not true. Caras forgave them, said nothing, and renounced his title and fealty to join the order of Gild. Caras traveled to Arx for his training, learning about the plight of those in need, the lives of the common folk, the way one can change a life through kindness, compassion, and charity. Once becoming godsworn, Caras began to travel. Walking the roads of the Compact with nothing but his generosity and charity, he brought the message of Gild far and wide through all the lands of the kingdom. His return to Arx several years ago came after deep contemplation and prayer. It would be a sacrifice considering his love of the road and the far-flung people that need the blessing of Gild, but it is a sacrifice he is willing to make and one that has paid dividends as he becomes the Archlector of Gild and increases his opportunities to praise the goddess.
s his opportunities to praise the goddess. +
Carmen grew up in the Lower Burroughs. Her …
Carmen grew up in the Lower Burroughs. Her mother was a laundress for the Mercies and her father a carpenter. They did okay as families went. As an only child she often followed at her mother's heels around the House of Solace. She proved an able helped and natural caretaker as a young child. It was when her mother insisted on her getting some schooling that her sweet demeanor faded. Carmen had a very keen mind and the stupidity she saw in the classes had her speaking out. It also had her targeted by those who didn't appreciate being made a fool of. Carmen came home angry and determined to give as good as she got. Until she hit her majority Carmen's youth was full of fighting and learning. The mercies had seen her natural gift and offered to train her, which she was happy to do. Yet she had made friends during her schooling and like most kids formed her own Burroughs gang. There were times her skills came in very handy. Her parents did not approve of her gang activities. So they brought her uncle, a Blade, to talk to her. He convinced her to give the Crimson Blades a try, where she could fight -and- use her medic skills -and- get paid for it. Seemed perfect to her. The fact that the Crimson Blades were elite helped a lot. The utter stupidity of people she couldn't help but comment on was not nearly as evident. And all her trainers actually had brains so she managed to not get in too much trouble for her smart mouth. Now six years in and through several wars she has come out a veteran combat medic. Preffering to use a small bows for protection on the field, she has become known among the blades as the Bloody Mercy. She wears the nickname with pride.
Mercy. She wears the nickname with pride. +
Carrick was born to a family of sailors an …
Carrick was born to a family of sailors and raiders. His father having been a sailor that fought off raiders and his grandfather on his mother's side being a raider that attacked ships. As a boy he grew up hearing the stories of the open sea as well as the honor of different warriors. It was his dream to go explore the sea as a sailor and he did. This was his life on the open sea fighting pirates while he explored. When he came home from his adventures he would fight with others in the village to show them how to fight raiders or any others that might come to attack. This lead to him quickly showing him to be the best warrior in the village. As he traveled out when he came back home would find a new challenger appeared to challenge him due to word of his skill of arms. This lead his name to grow even while sailing as a fearsome combatant as well as talented teacher for he would show those that he faced how to improve themselves as well as teach any who wished to know how to defend themselves. Finally after years of adventuring traveling and dueling. He was called to the Ravenseye house, they had heard of his skill and asked him to be sword of the house. Seeing it as a new adventure as well as wanting to settle down a bit to start a family Carrick agreed. His new title suited him more than he thought and now on his way to the city of Arx with the Countess seeing it as a new adventure to travel.
ss seeing it as a new adventure to travel. +
Caspian was a thrall because his father wa …
Caspian was a thrall because his father was a thrall and his mother was also a thrall, and his father's war debt was a lot to pay. Yet the Thrax fealty has spent the last few years struggling towards what the rest of the Compact would call progress, and in an early push towards some of that progress, Donella Thrax freed some thralls who were thralls only by virtue of their parents' debts rather than their own. Caspian was freed at 19, with scattered memories of his tribe's honestly piratical raiding traditions mostly subverted by the day in and day out of long hours of hard labor with tenant farmers and ropemakers and sailors. He found in his newfound freedom that what he was mainly good at was a.) hard labor and b.) knives! He took the surname 'Wild' because his parents didn't give him a better one, and became a mercenary and sword for hire, until he eventually tagged into being a duellist for the Champion's Guild in Arx on account of besting a few in combat and developing a reputation for being a real /showy/ sword for hire. Though he began as a kind of desperately hungry merc with an axe to grind, he blossomed into a delighted fighter at the opportunity to pitch his skills in the dueling ring to wealthy nobles. It was exactly the life for him. Money was suddenly easier to come by, and with money, delicious attention, heartwarming acclaim, and the love and affection of adoring crowds, at least as long as he was making a show of it. Turning to away from grim guts and leaping whole-heartedly into laughter and life, he shines with the brilliance of the bon vivant, and it's clear he's here to make a killing.
nd it's clear he's here to make a killing. +
Cassandra Laurent was born to lead and she …
Cassandra Laurent was born to lead and she never doubted that. She never doubted her duty. She knew that she would be the Duchess of House Laurent, and that she would serve her family, and that she would serve House Valardin. But life, and the gods, had other plans for her. She was drawn early to the faith. At first she was merely a lay sister, dedicated to Gloria, to whom she felt called. But at the age of 20, while riding hard for her father's men in pursuit of a group of Shavs who had killed a priest and desecrated a shrine in one of their raids on a surrounding village, she was knocked from her horse and fell in battle. She fought her way clear of the Abandoned, but fell unconscious in the valley, separated from the others. Before she was recovered, she had a dream she attributed to Gloria, and when she woke, she knew that she could not remain the heir to her father's ducal seat. But she did something that she would never again do in her life: afraid of the reactions of her family, of her father and brother, she temporized. She hesitated. She kept finding excuses, putting off her passions for another day. When her father was in the midst of brokering a potential marriage alliance for her, however, she could no longer bear the silence. The lay dedicacy was not enough; she would serve the Faith, called to another duty than the one she had first been born to. Cassandra threw herself into the priesthood with her whole heart. She studied and worked and threw every ounce of her will behind serving the faith. It is possible that her connections to a Valardin ducal house -- godsworn though she was -- helped her in her climb through the ranks, but Cassandra liked to believe it was her passion and dedication that eventually made her the Archlector of Gloria. The pinnacle of her ambition is to be the Sword of the Faith -- and her eye lifts ever to that horizon.
-- and her eye lifts ever to that horizon. +
Cassia Mercier grew up with a comfortable …
Cassia Mercier grew up with a comfortable life for a commoner. A scion of a merchant family, but she wasn't particularly close with her cousins. Her mother having "married" in, while her father was the Mercier-- who died when Cassia was barely five years old. The Merciers made sure she was cared for but she wasn't particularly close with them, and her mother wasn't very interested in pushing for a family connection. Cassia has always had a strong sense of smell and as a young girl would often be bothered by strong scents. Which was unfortunate since her mother was a fisherwoman. Cassia simply cannot stand the smell of fish and so refused to follow in her footsteps. Leaving under the same roof as a fisherman drove her to learn how to create other scents. She fell in love with the act of creating perfumes, of distilling oils, and creating things that smelt _good_. ...and that's what she's been doing ever since.
d that's what she's been doing ever since. +
Cassian was the second son of a Ravenseye …
Cassian was the second son of a Ravenseye family, and from the start seemed destined for adventure. Constantly exploring from the time he could crawl, climbing from the time he could walk, there was virtually nothing that could bar Cassian from a place. By the time he was of age, the sea beckoned to him and his parents could do nothing to dissuade him. His good nature and quick mind let him learn nearly every job aboard the ship, and it didn't take long for him to rise to the rank of Captain, with a crew that would follow him into storm or fire. His skill at sailing earned him renown, and the eye of a lovely woman from the House Crovane, though the latter would perish before their life together could truly blossom.
e their life together could truly blossom. +
Cassim is the second son of cousins to the …
Cassim is the second son of cousins to the Sanna, having grown up pretty much in the Giant's Reach his entire life. As a second son, he wasn't going to inherit anything anytime soon so he was expected to pick up the slack by being pressured into educational and artistic pursuits. This tempered him for a long life of reading books, and trying to make something out of nothing, but it was not what he wanted. He'd find himself constantly getting into trouble just to avoid it, which lead to him lashing out at his peers, family, and even important visitors. When he was eight, he ran away into the wilderness where he was lost for three days. In those three days, he was attacked by beasts, avoided detection by two thuggish looking men, and was discovered nearly dead by a Shaman who nursed him back to health. When he was strong enough to explain what happened, the Shaman scolded him, and returned him home. However, as a reward for his show of endurance and resourcefulness, he was offered an apprenticeship, to start upon his tenth birthday. He had two years to study all he could about herbalism, medicine, and the Spirits. His parents weren't thrilled, but they accepted it as a means of boosting his social rank to make him more viable for mates. What they hadn't expected, was the Shaman to return, and take their son into the woods never to be seen again for months at a time. Each time, Cassim came home a little more different. First, he was no longer the angry little boy he'd used to be, he was more relaxed, and laid back. Second, he'd begun to establish a certain distance between him and the rest of the family, and described it as a 'comfortable distance'. The third and final change, though, was when he never came home at all. He was eighteen when his mentor passed from this life into the next. That was when his real training began. His mentor, had left him a number of clues and notes to prepare him for the next phase of his journey. His vision quest. For two long years, he was to live in the wilderness, survive, and by the end commune with the Spirits, while coming to an understanding of the differences between his Free Soul, and his Mundane Soul, and why each can't exist while the other is active. He has only just returned, from this grueling ordeal. A changed man? Only time can tell.
al. A changed man? Only time can tell. +
Cassimir is the only child of Artemis and …
Cassimir is the only child of Artemis and Theda Argento. From his birth, his mother exercised control over the minutiae of his life, while his father was emotionally and physically distant. Without a firm hand to tame her overpowering will, Theda's oppression would contribute to the bulk of his underdeveloped social skills and a period of adolescent malcontent. When Cassimir came of age, he decidedly channeled every ounce of his free time to knowledgable pursuits that he hoped would one day be the basis for his escape from the prison his estate exemplified. At every turn, he shunned his mother's wiles. Such overt acts of rebellion greatly displeased Theda, who, agitated by an increasing awareness that the family's reputation and favor in Arx was steeply declining, sought above all else to secure a good match for her son and, through him, herald in a new age of prosperity and power. On the morn of Cassimir's twentieth birthday, Theda stirred to find his chambers empty, with nary a trace left behind to inform her of where he had gone. She searched and she waited, but it became quite clear that he had abdicated his wealth and titles, and ultimately rejected the Argento family for good and all. In the very same year, Theda's most potent fears would become stark reality: House Argento was summarily eradicated, and his parents with it. Cassimir is keenly aware of the events that transpired, and the unfortunate reputation that his surname espouses. A cautious inclination to emerge from hiding has budded over time, so sightings of the scholarly scion have become more frequent in the capital city. With the rise of Lianne Pravus claiming the title of Marquessa of Nilanza after the destruction of his house, and the formation of House Malespero from the remains, it was with readiness and great relief that Cassimir cast off his ruined name to join them, and start anew.
ruined name to join them, and start anew. +
Cassiopeia of Tremorus, said to be the mos …
Cassiopeia of Tremorus, said to be the most beautiful woman in the far Southern city-state hidden away in the Saffron Chain. A woman who has inspired bards to sing of her allure and whom great artists of her time beg to portray her with their craft, as she is frequently spoken of as the personification of ideal human beauty. Paintings of her sell for quite a lot of money and motifs are jealously guarded but in truth, the woman who has sparked the myth is no more attractive than her sister Andromeda nor her cousins. She possesses a special quality, a presence, that many have a difficult time reconciling with gravitas and while their father enjoys the reputation his eldest daughter has begotten, Cassiopeia finds it somewhat exhausting. Ever since she was a young girl it was as if her only lot in life was to be something sought after and obtained but never appreciated for who she truly is - an indelible truth she couldn't shake no matter how hard she tried. This led to years in which she would constantly find herself going from one adventure to another in order to escape the reality of feeling put upon a pedestal and gawked at. Oftentimes this was counter productive for when she was discovered to be /the/ Cassiopeia the ship's crew or some random sellword accompanying her at the time would become fixated to the point of obsessed and she'd need to abandon ship, quite literally, and find some new bout of adventure aboard another vessel. While she traveled the Saffron Chains she learned many useful skills and her experiences tempered her into a very capable woman but no matter how far she ran, Cassiopeia simply could not escape her woes. Since she could not escape her reality she chose instead to do the next best thing and sequester herself away from it all -- retreating into solitude and privacy within the walls of the Sky Palace. Year after year her 'Pa-Pa' would receive countless offers of marriage from a myriad of places and while most of them were trash, some were immense opportunities in his eyes. Even though his daughter would sometimes give him the vapors somehow she was, politically, worth a great deal. He never forced her to marry however and so she did not. After some months squirreled away in the city-state she began to grow restless. Hearing that her siblings had gone to the capital of the Compact, she decided it was time to follow. If not to get away from all the clingers on, then at least to explore this new city. With the reclusive young Lady's recent reemergence into the forefront of politics and goings on in Tremorus there is a bustle of excitement and hushed whispers about why she has -really- chosen to rejoin society proper after being gone for almost a decade. She didn't really expect as much to change as it did, however. Following the destruction of the palace in Tremorus, the deaths of much of her extended family, the fall of her liege, and the ennoblement of Giorgio and naming him as Ezmeralda's successor, Cassiopeia wasn't seen for weeks afterwards. When she finally was, it was announced she had formally joined very distant family in the city-state of Sangris, House Vaevici, and would not be returning to Tremorus- not now, and possibly not ever, which has caused a great deal of gossip among the peerage as to her reasons.
ossip among the peerage as to her reasons. +
Cassiopeia of Tremorus, said to be the mos …
Cassiopeia of Tremorus, said to be the most beautiful woman in the far Southern city-state hidden away in the Saffron Chain. A woman who has inspired bards to sing of her allure and whom great artists of her time beg to portray her with their craft, as she is frequently spoken of as the personification of ideal human beauty. Paintings of her sell for quite a lot of money and motifs are jealously guarded but in truth, the woman who has sparked the myth is no more attractive than her sister Andromeda nor her cousins. She possesses a special quality, a presence, that many have a difficult time reconciling with gravitas and while their father enjoys the reputation his eldest daughter has begotten, Cassiopeia finds it somewhat exhausting. Ever since she was a young girl it was as if her only lot in life was to be something sought after and obtained but never appreciated for who she truly is - an indelible truth she couldn't shake no matter how hard she tried. This led to years in which she would constantly find herself going from one adventure to another in order to escape the reality of feeling put upon a pedestal and gawked at. Oftentimes this was counter productive for when she was discovered to be /the/ Cassiopeia the ship's crew or some random sellword accompanying her at the time would become fixated to the point of obsessed and she'd need to abandon ship, quite literally, and find some new bout of adventure aboard another vessel. While she traveled the Saffron Chains she learned many useful skills and her experiences tempered her into a very capable woman but no matter how far she ran, Cassiopeia simply could not escape her woes. Since she could not escape her reality she chose instead to do the next best thing and sequester herself away from it all -- retreating into solitude and privacy within the walls of the Sky Palace. Year after year her 'Pa-Pa' would receive countless offers of marriage from a myriad of places and while most of them were trash, some were immense opportunities in his eyes. Even though his daughter would sometimes give him the vapors somehow she was, politically, worth a great deal. He never forced her to marry however and so she did not. After some months squirreled away in the city-state she began to grow restless. Hearing that her siblings had gone to the capital of the Compact, she decided it was time to follow. If not to get away from all the clingers on, then at least to explore this new city. With the reclusive young Lady's recent reemergence into the forefront of politics and goings on in Tremorus there is a bustle of excitement and hushed whispers about why she has -really- chosen to rejoin society proper after being gone for almost a decade.
oper after being gone for almost a decade. +
Castiel was born in the bowels of a ship; …
Castiel was born in the bowels of a ship; it seems that both the claustrophobic darkness and the salty musk of a trading vessel were both things the young Thrax learned to love as much as the mother who brought him into the world. He was a curious child given his kin, possessing both an affinity for books and longing for the furious crucible of war, yet while growing up he never cared to settle his differences - which he had more than his fair share of - in the more conventional manner of fisticuffs; there was always someone bigger, stronger and older willing to though, and that person could be enticed to do so on his behalf. When he became of age Castiel was restless; wanderlust had settled in him, and as soon as he could find a place on a ship he seized the opportunity and sailed with them. It was no heavily manned war galley, only a light merchant caravel and yet he loved the experience and spent the next three years working just about every rank on it until he took control altogether. A naturally patient man even at the time, he discovered he had an affinity for coin and learned how to make more very quickly; traders are shrewd people but he milked every advantage he had until just after his twentieth birthday he already controlled - in everything but name - a small but busy fleet of ships sailing the islands. Since negotiating the waters in the Saffron Chain means dealing with scum, Castiel first became acquainted with negotiating with pirates early on and then as he became more confident in the practice and his connections grew, he saw the benefits of working with them. A naturally untrustworthy and self-serving bunch, they could still be manipulated when it was to their best interest to do so, something which the young Thrax counted as an advantage; knowing what moves a person is leverage. He cultivated such ties very carefully and let them grow, expanding his interests past the islands along as whispers of an oncoming war reached him even in the eastern seas. After years of making a name for himself in the open waters and becoming a veteran captain in his mid-twenties, Castiel finally realized he could no longer neglect his obligations to House Thrax. He is fully aware he is *different* than many of his peers; a self-described progressive traditionalist, he is more concerned with *winning* than he is with just how such a feat can be achieved, and it's something which has caused friction at times during family gatherings. He hopes his return might herald a shift in tactics - achieving dominance built on the back of robust positions, careful planning and employing cunning as much as brute strength.
ploying cunning as much as brute strength. +
Catalina was born into service in the Igni …
Catalina was born into service in the Igniseri household, her father a trusted steward who saw to the affairs of the house through Emilisia's various marriages, and her mother a ladies maid who was ever at the Countess' side to offer what support and advice she could. Catalina was born when the countess' children were still young, but from an early age, the girl displayed a remarkably bright mind and malleable nature. She was learning her father's work while still a child, and assisting her mother and learning the ways of the court when her father was too busy for her help. By the time she reached her early teens, it was clear that the girl had talent - and more, potential. She could read people like a book, and was easy enough to overlook as a servant but skilled enough to have access to other reaches of the court. Light of hand and foot, with an easy smile, she had all the grace and wits she might need. And so, in the interests of the house, she was trained in other means of support. The houses of the Lyceum are known for intrigue and deception, and Catalina is but a pawn in that game - albeit a useful one.
a pawn in that game - albeit a useful one. +
Cecilli was born in the late winter, a chi …
Cecilli was born in the late winter, a child born to commoners struggling to keep her warm-- of course, come spring, she had survived. Her upbringing was riddled with fables and tales common in the northern shamanistic tradition, all which left behind footprints in her mind. Not just lessons and wisdom, but laws and realities of her world, an assurance that the existence of the incorporeal was just beyond touch, but communicable to her through the signs inherent in the world around her. As she grew, she only became more sure of this. Her world was filled with the supernatural, and it called to her; it was perceptible, but only barely, requiring a trained eye and the favor of the spirits, a favor won by realizing the hardships of nature through a lifetime within it. She left behind her village when she came of age, travelling within the wilderness and beyond it with a long-time friend and protector, a knight from her homeland.
and protector, a knight from her homeland. +
Cedric had a different name when he was a …
Cedric had a different name when he was a boy, but this one suits him perfectly well. When he was young, he was a child of thralls under the dominion of a lesser family of Thrax fealty, but in the course of being transported through the islands of the Saffron Chain, the ship was wrecked in a storm and half the crew eaten by sharks or other monsters. The boy and his mother survived along with a handful of other men, some of whom tried to swim for it and if they made it, neither Cedric nor his mother ever heard anything about it. However, a ship of explorers bound Southward for an expedition towards the Darkwater Deeps took them aboard when the Ashford party on the deck caught sight of the blaze from their bonfire. The expedition took them on, on the promise that they would get out of the way, and while there were terrors in the deeps the ship braved before it eventually returned to the relative safe harbor of Sanctum. Romance was in the air between Cedric's mother and one of the Ashford retainers' servants on the long overland haul from Sanctum to Ashford Keep. Cedric took his new name from his new father, and began working as a servant in the servants' quarters for the Ashfords. Cedric signed up for military service when he was old enough, but it was aptitude and the servants' family connections that essentially placed him in a position of valet to one of the knight-officers in service to Ashford Keep. He served there for a term of five years until, in his late 20s, his mother died and his stepfather remarried, leaving Cedric the guardian of his little sister. Cedric retired from military service to a more stationary post working as a steward for the Ashfords. His little sister Celia was the light of his life, and became the central figure of Ashford Keep's kitchens, particularly in the bakery. As a house man and fine steward with a history of service as a valet, there is no more sensible servant to bring along as a member of an expedition to ensure that one's boots get the mud and blood off them. Neither is there anyone more surprisingly useful in a pinch.
nyone more surprisingly useful in a pinch. +
Charles was born the daughter and only chi …
Charles was born the daughter and only child of a low-ranking noble officer. Without a male child to serve as heir, his position would fall vacant upon retirement; and thus, Charles was obligated from a young age to pursue masculine activities. This upbringing was controversial, lending itself to conflicts within his house. He took poorly to the courtly education of a noble child, never holding still long enough to complete his lessons. As such his reputation among the court is not a respected one. By his teenage years, however, his prowess in battle assuaged many fears of his ability. He has since lived publicly as a man without disguising his birth, and has distinguished himself as a competent warrior and tactician on the front lines. He has sought to prove himself through martial service ever since.
imself through martial service ever since. +
Cherilo was born to a lumberjack and homem …
Cherilo was born to a lumberjack and homemaker, who raised him with distant but thorough care. They lived in the forests worked by his father, and from a young age, Cherilo spent much time exploring these wilds. As he grew enamored with the animals, plants, sounds and smells of the forest, Cherilo equally grew contemptuous of his father's exploitation of the forest. At 16, having completed his homeschooling, Cherilo left home quietly to camp in the outer woods. He never returned to live at home, slowly building his own homestead sustainably. He's lived in the home he built all his life, and has endeavored to learn as much as possible about his natural environment - both its beauties and its natural laws. It was his enthusiasm for this world that eventually led him into the city. By befriending city folk, making connections, and becoming learned, he's made opportunities to spread the gospel of nature. Among certain crowds, Cherilo's writings, sketches, and poetry have become well-known, and he's encouraged a small movement of preservation and appreciation of the natural world. Cherilo helps support himself by taking nobility on tours of the area surrounding his home - although their manner sometimes rankles him. Some of his city friends have come to be loyal confidants, though perhaps none as much as his pet dog Carrie, the fourth-generation pup of his childhood pet.
ourth-generation pup of his childhood pet. +
Childhood for Amanda was an odd thing. Qui …
Childhood for Amanda was an odd thing. Quiet, withdrawn, and seemingly in her own world (yet terribly observant of what everyone was doing around her), she came up with few friends and none of the passions that a child might have. In fact, being fastidious and proper seemed to be the only thing that held her attention. Quiet children weren't exactly an oddity in the Morgan household, and so the family knew to simply embrace what they found in this girl, and Amanda was sent off to learn how to be professional fastidious and proper. After years of learning, during which Amanda developed a love for the Gods (above and beyond what would otherwise be expected for an Oathlander), she went to serve the Valardin family as a Court Lady. She helped more than a few princesses learn which fork to use and how to speak in just the right way to get what they wanted. All the while, as she tirelessly helped the nobility, she quietly pushed them toward what she thought was best for them. Toward the answer that was piously correct. She may have even made a fine priest, but she found the life simply too constraining. No, after years of service she opted to leave her position at court and spend some time by herself. Amanda spent a few years travelling. She'll talk of the odd sites she saw, of the poetry she read, of the wine and food she tasted. She wanted, in her words, to see all the greatest of the Gods' work. Which, of course, were the greatest of humanity's work. And beyond those vagueries, she does doesn't share many details about her years away. When Amanda became stationary again, it was in Arx. She quickly found herself serving Whisper House as a courtier. Unlike back in Sanctum, she was freer here to pursue her own goals, while still serving humanity, as she believes the Gods would want her to do. She comforts and soothes, she pushes and she prods, she corrects and adjusts, all to make people (in her opinion) better. She'll bring virtue to Arx, however she can.
e'll bring virtue to Arx, however she can. +
Christine spent most of her early days lea …
Christine spent most of her early days learning how to read, how to write, how to get more books... The world didn't need to be seen, since you can find it all and more in a good library. But then, one day she did. On her way back home, after visiting her cousin Denholm, she decided to take a detour... And ever since, she's been travelling around... because, why just to read books if you can be part of them?
to read books if you can be part of them? +

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