Cast of Characters
Roan Basaris, Summoner of the Raulite
Alexei Galanis, Crusader of Isakios
Arydnia 'Arryn' Tobolt, Princess of Taeron
Jean Cedric Carteneau, Professor of Luila
Luthica Cyrellion, Outcast of Teann Ch'i
Cenric Winifred Hargrave, Warrior-Monk of Corian

Noteable NPCs

OSTs
Christmas in the 13th Month

Floors
<<Roar of the Bloodmoon>>

The Menagerie

Just a bit under the weather.

Name: Roan Basaris
Age: 19

Where do you hail from?
Roan has nothing that could be called a homeland. Born in the midst of travel that his race is known for, he is one of the few Raulites that remain.

What are your reasons for crossing the Gate of the Labyrinth?
A mix of childhood fascination and that his wanderlust seems to have lost direction, still driving him to move, but leading him nowhere.
How would you describe yourself?
A young adult who hasn’t quite lost the enthusiasm of childhood. While not happy, go-lucky, outgoing, he does hold a sense of energy in everything he does; very driven as some might put it. Now Roan tends to think a bit rather than diving head first into situations, but he hasn't managed to quash the impulsive side just yet. Combined together, he can become a bit immature in stressful circumstances, easing up to deal with the situation rather than the other way around.

As an restless wanderer, he doesn't have many issues with being alone and is rather comfortable with only the sounds of nature. He doesn't mind company, but isn't particularly used to it so he does tend to withdraw in to himself around others. He doesn't become meek, on the contrary he's usually courageous, but Roan does distance himself. And courageous? Not particularly afraid of challenges or dangers, Roan won't question a decision to try and save a stranger's life, even if it carries the possibility of injury. Outside of the more urgent situations where immediate actions help the most, the Raulite isn't nearly as charitable.
And your morals and ideals?
Roan’s moral compass is one that leads him fairly straight in life. He’s willing to help others and would rather simply not associate with others than throw them under for his own benefit. He prefers being remembered briefly by many rather than fondly by a few, never sticking around for long even after he does assist others.
What do you consider yourself to be skilled in?
He's a good lone wanderer, with all the skills that entails? Self-sustenance away from civilization and by one's self. General survival skills such as gathering and preparing food, setting up shelters, weathering a myriad of conditions, some basic first-aid and medicine, etc. The lifestyle was relatively spartan so his skills aren't particularly elaborate, but they allowed him to live.

Physically. Roan might not be the most athletic individual or powerful warrior, but he's a hardy and resilient survivor. He tires slowly and recovers quickly, can hold his own in combat, and generally isn't the type of individual that bandits go after. Even alone, he carries the air of someone who knows what he's doing and has survived long enough doing so.

Magically too. Because Raulites get the blessings of both. While Roan's abilities are specialized and he can't work anything aside from them, he can still hold his own against others who tap into the more mystical forces. His own magic manifests mostly in abilities that affect and empower him, granting him even more potent physical capabilities. Roan also holds a number of "contracts" with several beings he was drawn to over the course of his travels. The lingering traces attach themselves to parts of his magic-infused body as anchors and allow him to call upon them for assistance in combat or his travels. They are not beings, but closer to recordings left behind in various locations that he has now copied onto his body. Raw feelings and emotions are about as much as Roan can feel from them.
Any fears or weaknesses that you hold?
Being robbed of his magic is one, albeit it would likely kill him in the process. Living on after that, if it was somehow managed, without his contracts wouldn’t be something Roan would like to do to put mildly.

Anything that interferes with magic would weaken Roan physically as well due to how the magic is ingrained and constantly flows through his physical body. This is counter balanced by the fact that it is harder for his magic to be interfered due to the way it’s wholly integrated with him.

He’s a bit naive if someone can gain his trust? He’s been a solitary wanderer for the past few years with little company for the most part. That’s not to say he’s dumb, but he will generally listen to what others say.
Which part of your body do you value the most?
Probably his left arm. His first contract is bound there.

Stats I get one extra, yay.
Strength: 5
Leg Stuff: 5
Dexterity: 5
Homogenized Body Stuff: 6

Appearance:


Name: Alexei Galanis
Age: 36

Where do you hail from?
The western Kingdom of Isakios is a theocracy dedicated to the worship of Austema, goddess of light and staunch opposer of Hell and the demonic. Every aspect of society in Isakios is controlled by the church, and the nation is rather insular as a result. Isakios possesses a bevy of natural resources, claimed by the church to be a manifestation of Austema's favor towards the nation, and thus has no need to trade with other nations for raw materials. The high priest of the Austeman church controls the kingdom, but Isakios' claim to fame is their military force, the Crusaders. The Crusaders are a holy order of knights dedicated to the church of Austema. The church teaches that the goddess' creed is to destroy all things infernal, and the knights of the church were founded for exactly that purpose. Crusaders are trained in both light magic and the weapons of war. The knights of Isakios are renowned as monster hunters, frequently sending hunting parties out into neighboring countries to wipe out infernal monsters. This has put them at odds with their neighbors from time to time, and wars have started in the past from misunderstandings over this, but in the current age, it is an unspoken agreement that only small numbers of Crusaders are allowed into the countries bordering Isakios at a time, if only because they provide a useful service in slaying monsters.

What are your reasons for crossing the Gate of the Labyrinth?:
A desire to slay monsters in the name of his faith.

How would you describe yourself?
Alexei is a wandering knight-errant dedicated to hunting down monsters wherever he finds them. This knight is so fanatical in his duties that he left his position within his holy order simply so he could slaughter the demonic in nations besides his own. In battle against monsters, he is bloodthirsty and nearly rapturous in his joy at killing monsters whereever they stand. However, when not killing monsters, Alexei is the very picture of a stoic, pious knight.

And your morals and ideals?
At heart, Alexei is a zealot for his church and the goddess he worships. The central creed of the Austeman faith is to slay the infernal, and to Alexei, that is all that matters to him. He is not adverse to helping those in need, but it will always be a secondary priority compared to hunting monsters.

What do you consider yourself to be skilled in?
As a holy knight of Isakios and the church of Austema, Alexei is an apt physical combatant, with strength greater than the average man, and a hardy consitution to match. He is a skilled swordsman, and specializes in large two-handed greatswords in order to slay the biggest monsters he can find. Additionally, Alexei is trained in the use of light magic. He is capable of firing blasts of magic, as well as augment his sword to smite anything it touches. Alexei is also capable of using his light magic in the form of shields and barriers, but he is less skilled in this aspect of magic than he is in the offensive arts.

After wandering on his own for a number of years, Alexei has also picked up general survival skills, and can fend for himself quite well in the wilderness.

Any fears or weaknesses that you hold?
If Alexei fears anything, it is the threat of monsters across the world. As a child, he had lost his family and village to a monster attack before he was saved and taken in by the Austeman Crusaders, and to this day, he bears an intense hatred of the demonic as a result.

The downside to being a zealot is that it can make a person quite unreasonable, and this applies to Alexei. Unless given a compelling reason to, he is generally unwilling to leave any monster he sees alive, even at the cost of either his own life or the lives of those around him.

Which part of your body do you value the most?
Alexei's right arm, which is his sword arm.

Stats:
Strength: 7
Leg stuff: 3
Dexterity: 3
Homogenized body stuff: 7

"For the good of the Kingdom, and by the blood of the House."
Name: Arydnia ‘Arryn’ Tobolt
Age: 18

Where do you hail from?:
The Northern Kingdom of Taeron is a harsh and unforgiving place. Their winters are all year around, only drifting above freezing temperature during the summer, but if its not snowing, or raining, then there is an almost constant overcast. Miles of forest, mountains, and hills surround the Kingdom while over a dozen small towns, which are governed by the capitol, are located in all reaches of the land. Over time the people have learned to live, and even thrive off of this harsh terrain. The strong only survive in the Taeron, while the weak and old are rumored to be forgotten in the snow.

Religion is a driving force in Taeron. The people worship three main Gods, Joha, Valdis and Tellus. The God of Life, the Goddess of Death, and the Goddess of Nature. While some worship one more then the others, each figure holds a special place amongst families, be it through traditions, or there entire way of life. Northerners have always been said to be superstitious as well, but it comes with good reasons. Before the land had been conquered centuries ago, Giants, Fae, and Monsters roamed, and controlled the North. Even now in modern times natives, and travelers still tell stories of great beasts, and ancient spirits living in the unexplored forests.

What are your reasons for crossing the Gate of the Labyrinth?:
Like the women, and sisters of the Tobolt family, it is Arydnia’s duty as the ‘Princess’ of Taeron to sacrifice herself to the Labyrinth in honor of her future King, Aeris. However she has always had anterior motives, despite what she has been raised to believe. Coming out alive would not only bring her, and the Tobolt name great honor, but there is also a chance that with her escape, she could bring an end to her families terrible traditions.

How would you describe yourself?:
Arydnia has always been a serious girl. Stoic, drawn, and independent, her father often praised her for her strength, stating that even as a child she hardly ever cried, or whined. Her life has revolved around nothing but the labyrinth, and training, rendering her almost completely socially inept. Blunt, aggressive, and seemingly unsympathetic, its hard for anyone to really get along with her, or for her to get along with anyone else. Past this tough exterior, and while rare, and never with out a rough edge to it, she has been known to show off a kinder side at times. However forming bonds, and making friends has never been at the top of her priorities.

While she holds no contempt for her Kingdom, or people, Arydnia has never felt that she was apart, or belonged to her House. Treated considerably different from her brothers, she has always been aware of how her parents really feel about her. She has seen the greed, and corruption that drives her father, fearing that her brother will only become the same. However in her position, she has no power to protest any of this this. With a life that's been paved for her from start to finish, she's come to accept whatever fate has in mind for it, be it escaping the Labyrinth, or even death.

And your morals and ideals?:
Honor, and power. The two things that the Tobolt House holds to the highest degree. Not only shaping their way of life, these ideals also have a great impact on the people of the Northern Kingdom. Naturally Arydnia began to strive for these ideals. She craved power to impress her father, and brothers, knowing it was the only way to earn respect amongst the members of her house. Unfortunately as a woman of the Tobolt name, honor was something to be achieved after their sacrifice. While it is a hard truth and seems almost unattainable, Arydnia uses this as her driving force to achieve greatness, wanting to be more then just a pawn in her families venture for power.

What do you consider yourself to be skilled in?:
After years of training under the hand of her father, and the captain of the Kings Guard, Arydnia considers herself an experienced swordsman. Confident in her sword handling, she's precise with a bow, and an even better tracker. While her life had been centered around combat, and strategizing, as a 'Lady' she was put through etiquette training, and taught how to sew, cooking, and dance.


Any fears or weaknesses that you hold?:
Destiny has always been an unsettling word for her. As a constant reminder of her fate, it sits over her like a looming cloud, bringing internal self-doubt and fear with her where ever she goes. Of course she'd never let anyone know this. Blocked off by an impenetrable wall, Arydnia builds up her stress, and hides her emotions from others, leaving her with trust issues and wild temper. This puts a toll on any potential friendships, or acquaintances, which more then often leaves her with more enemies then friends.

Which part of your body do you value the most?:
Considering all of her work and training she's been put through, she values her arms the most. Without them Arydnia would be seen as nothing but trash, and a failure to her House name.

Stats:
Strength: 5
Leg Stuff: 4
Dexterity: 5
Homogenized Body Stuff: 6

Name: Jean Cedric Carteneau

Age: 32

Where do you hail from?:
Jean hails from the temperate island nation of Lulia.

The Kingdom of Lulia, or the Isles of Lulia, is a small nation consisting of a large main island and four small satellite islands. The main islands are separated into nine main states, or prefectures. The main island, Lulia, has five prefectures, Pem, Oshington, Hayes, Gusto, and Ocros, with the remaining four belonging to the four satellites. Ruled by the Crown since time immemorial, Lulia is a fundamentally mercantile nation with many colonial holdings. A highly industrious state, it is known for three things: manufacturing, navy, and education.

A staggering 75% of the country’s gross domestic profit is international trade, with the remaining 25% attributed to primarily agriculture and statistically insignificant markets. Lulia is renowned for its nearly unrivaled manufacturing and industrial capability, which is centered nearly exclusively in the smoggy Oshington Prefecture. Oshington is Lulia’s geographically smallest prefecture, consisting of Lulia’s five major cities and their governing zones. These five cities together account for the majority of the kingdom’s population, and are the reason for Lulia’s arguably unwarranted image amongst foreigners as a sooty and densely populated nation. Unlike the cities of other nations, Lulia’s major cities are not homogenous. Over the course of centuries its centers of trade have become melting pots of cultures and religions.

Contrary to the image put forth by Oshington, Lulia’s other prefectures are of a slow, peaceful agrarian nature, with rolling fields of wheat and sweet rustic towns. Life is quiet in these lands, and even in the larger coast side fishing towns there is a pleasant atmosphere that makes one want to relax outside and sip coffee during the warmer months. Farmers are the minority of Lulia’s population, and are well regarded out of patriotism, for most food is imported from other nations.

As a mercantile, maritime nation, Lulia has a sizeable and powerfully equipped navy to protect its commerce and cruise the seas. At present, it has a comparatively small army, used only to hold down colonial holdings, or settle domestic disputes. It was only in recent memory that the Lulian army was this small, however; Lulia was the very same nation that sent its armies into the Labyrinth in a series catastrophic expedition. Happily enough, the Crown regarded the expedition as a success, although in one incident the Labyrinth yielded part of a mountain that crushed most of the countless artifacts that were spit out in equivalent exchange.

Regardless of gain or loss, the destruction of this grand army had little effect on Lulia in the grand scheme of things as its superior navy has always protected its nation. Indeed, the main islands have never experienced a major nor successful invasion of their land in the millennia Lulia has existed as a sovereign state, and this is reflected in the proud and patriotic nature in even the most diverse citizens of the kingdom.

The academic institution is an important aspect in Lulian life. Upper and middle class citizens are socially expected to be schooled at a young age, starting from five until fifteen, when one has the option to attend university. Privileged peasants or magically competent people can potentially secure a university education by showing sufficient potential and petitioning a lord, but this is uncommon.

A typical Lulian University is situated usually in the countryside in grand and sprawling campuses, away from the hustle and bustle of the Oshington cities. Most Lulian institutes teach two core curriculums: The Common Arts, including history, art itself, mathematics, politics, and professions of the paper and land, and the simply put Magic Arts, which encompass the realms of alchemy, healing, summoning arts, elemental arts, magic theory, and the like.

The Lulian people have an odd and somewhat morbid philosophy in regards to the Labyrinth that has raised controversy time and time again. There is a popular tradition among the lower classes to sacrifice oneself at an old age, for the greater good of the people and their families. The old would not die wretched, the burden upon the family would be lifted, and the state would be strengthened through their sacrifices. This practice is not ubiquitous, but it is not uncommon to see the elderly make pilgrimages to the Labyrinth.

Interestingly, the political and academic elite have not yet given up on attempting to unlock the secrets of the Labyrinth. While military generals and navy admirals are simply interested in the shiny weapons that come out and send in military squads, it is not uncommon that entire academic expeditions end up sacrificing themselves in vain attempts to beat the system alongside their military and elderly counterparts.

What are your reasons for crossing the Gate of the Labyrinth?:
He crosses the gate in pursuit of knowledge, enlightenment, and probably a good mixture of morbid curiosity in between.

How would you describe yourself?:
Jean has a mild personality. He is a soft spoken, gentle person, but at the same time strong in resolve and will. Perhaps suiting to his profession, he strives to be helpful and benign at the outbreak of conflict, and he was known as a judicious arbiter at Hayes when solving academic disputes amongst colleagues and students.

A hard-working, inquisitive sort of guy, he can be found staring intensely at papers at his desk, or in the field studying plants and animals for an experimental potion or even the odd ingredient for some homebrew alcohol. He is enthusiastic by nature, but does well in hiding this, appearing as a reserved and thoughtful professor that likes to joke about idle things.

When things are serious, however, he is merciless as anybody would expect him to be, whether he is acting as a professor, a healer, or a citizen of Lulia, Jean would not hesitate to wreck an academic career for dishonesty, perform to his utmost ability as a physician, or do his civic duty in protecting the state.

And your morals and ideals?:
Like most of his colleagues and peers, Jean shares a conventional sense of Lulian code of ethics and morals. That is simply common sense and doing what is right. He doesn’t press his ideals on anybody, and does not particularly judge somebody for their morals and ideals, but he’ll probably poke fun at it.

What do you consider yourself to be skilled in?:

Jean lives and breathes magic. He is well versed in Lulian ‘General Alchemy’ and ‘Grand Alchemy,’ and the white arts, or the Lulian school of healing.

General Alchemy, or informally referred to as Field Alchemy, is the more practical, rooted school of alchemy. To put it simply, Field Alchemy is the practice of creating potions, elixirs, salves, and other various magical implements.

Grand Alchemy, on the other hand is more in line with the oft told “make lead into gold!” type of Alchemy, and is not unlike the Labyrinth in that Grand Alchemy induces a sense of equivalent exchange that transmutes one material into another. Often times, this requires a lengthy set up, requiring powerful catalysts and significant quantities of mana to transmute something as mundane as steel to a more rare metal, like the light aluminum. Grand Alchemy is almost never done on the field.

The whites arts are simple in nature. The entire school encompasses benevolent arts that mend the body (and soul, if some Lulian philosophers are to be believed). The art has universal boundaries of course, and can never revive the dead or regenerate or reattach severed limbs. It can never return an injury to its previous state, only nearly so, and for this reason the art is closely intertwined and supplemented with general medical practices.

Having nearly twenty years of being involved in the more arcane academia, Jean has a fair grasp of the principles of the main pillars of Lulian magical arts. While his field of study is healing magic, and alchemy, he is able to incorporate his extensive knowledge of the Lulian schools and weave in arts and tricks that the normal practitioner of Lulian magic cannot.

He has an inkling of knowledge of how to wield a sword, for person defense and simply as a tool, but it's likely he can bested by a swordsman’s apprentice in a fair duel.

Any fears or weaknesses that you hold?:
Jean does not have any particular or notable fears outside the realm of a normal person of his age, but he certainly has physical weaknesses unique to him.

He really is not athletically fit. Jean is an academic, not a warrior or a battle mage. His eyesight is not the best and wears glasses to see at great distances. Jean certainly can’t run miles or swim laps, but his upper body strength is at least reasonable from working on his property, which he returns to tend every weekend.

Which part of your body do you value the most?:
Jean’s left arm, as it is his dominant arm.

Stats:
Strength: 6
Leg Stuff: 4
Dexterity: 7
Homogenized Body Stuff: 3

Appearance:

Name: Luthica Cyrellion
Age: 20

Where do you hail from?:
Teann Ch'i is an independent self-governing Kingdom consisting of 6 Towers spanning over the Agarian Scar in the name giving Agarian Desert, once stage to the terrible event commonly known as the Spellblaze. Rather secluded from the rest of the world, Teann Ch'i thrives advancement in unlocking the secrets behind Magic, forming Alchemy, Technology and combined, Magitek. Thanks to this, and the huge amount of magical resources generated by the Spellblaze, Teann Ch'i is, even in a desert, self-sustaining and trade is mostly done for the reason of self-protection.

5 of the 6 Towers are placed on the cliffs around the scar, while the 6th one, hold by strong supports, is located mid-air in the middle of the giant scar, accessible through bridges to every other tower. Each tower serves mainly, but not entirely, a different purpose, one being the living quarters, another one houses all the tools and machines to produce good for the daily needs, a third one dedicated to education and theoretical research, the fourth and fifth one specialized for more practical (and dangerous) research and execution, and finally, the Bibliotheca Machina, which stores all the acquired knowledge and alike.

The government is made up by a council of 6, multiple candidates chosen by popularity but ultimately succeeding through a range of aptitude tests. Those 6 can freely fill up positions under them as they see fit. While there is no nobility or no apparent caste-system, and ones fortune is entirely based what good they bring to the community, a few families have set themselves on the top, producing prodigies on a consistent basis.

A sound mind requires a sound body and thus, the teachings and life of a citizen of Teann Ch'i is one full of studies and duties, basic education like reading, math, magic and physics, but also sports and different martial arts are part of their training.

Basically, Teann Ch'i could nearly be called a Utopia as long as everyone pulls their weight. But those who don't, well, those are marked as misfits, falling behind in one or way or another means death, death or being send into the labyrinth. The labyrinth, with its principles of Equivalent Exchange being very similar to the teachings of Teann Ch'i, is seen as an object of high interest, and while brave conquistador join the dungeon on their own accord, those so-called misfits have either the choice of death or try their luck in the dungeon. This weed out is a socially accepted standard by the entirety of the tower.

What are your reasons for crossing the Gate of the Labyrinth?:
Not fitting the rules of Teann Ch'i, Luthica had either the choice of execution or a slim chance of survival through traversing into the Labyrinth that the citizen of Teann Ch'i hold in high regards.

How would you describe yourself?:
Luthica has a head of her own and does what she pleases. Despite her rather timid look she can be very stubborn and hates following rules and alike. She can be very random from time to times and is capable of igniting the fury of the even most reserved elders. Rather carefree and happy in even the worst situations, Luthica is always forward-looking and can work as a strange emotional support.

And your morals and ideals?:
Luthica doesn't hold much of morals or ideals, everyone is responsible for their own actions and has to deal with the outcome accordingly. Also, she does not value life in a way a normal person would.

What do you consider yourself to be skilled in?:
Teann Chi's way of alchemy, which main-element is being able to dismantle pretty much anything into pure elemental essences usually stored into a crystallized form. Building, and using, all sorts of devices like mechanical pocketwatches, automatic crossbows or sawblades, including the infamous Cartridges and their Cylinders that allows practically anyone to use magic.

Any fears or weaknesses that you hold?:
She values freedom and independence, having that taken from her (which already happened to an extent) is something she hates. Since she never had many friends Luthica is also scared of losing those she holds dear.

Which part of your body do you value the most?
Her brain and fingers.

Stats:
Strength: 4
Leg Stuff: 6
Dexterity: 7
Homogenized Body Stuff: 3

Appearance:



Name:Cenric Winifred Hargrave
Age:25

Where do you hail from?: The Southern Kingdom of Corian; The City of Gard:: The Serpent's Nest
The kingdom of Corian is a small island nation governed by a mago-theocratic union of individuals known as The Arc-Mabehn which translates roughly to Arch-Bishops in the common tongue.

The common religion of the nation is that of Uliphetism which teaches that at the start of the world it was not men who ruled, but beasts. The teachings claim that beasts were more powerful, more arcane, and wiser than we can begin to imagine, but the early humans stole magic and might, and even intelligence from beasts until they were the dominant race. They left only a handful of the Great Beasts, those who fled to the stars. Greatest of these were Uliphetes the Serpent and Vaen the Bull. Vaen was angry at mankind for taking the power and the purpose of his fellow beasts and sought to destroy us, but Uliphetes was a serpent, and serpents are cunning creatures... they saw some of themselves in the craftiness of man and took mercy on us. Using their wiles Uliphetes tricked Vaen into traveling to the far side of the universe and then coiled himself about the universe to protect us from Vaen's rage, his mighty scales rebuffing the terrible strikes of the great bull's horns for all the millennia since.

Following these lessons the people view Uliphetes as a God-like figure, and have built temples in his honor where beasts, specifically serpents, are revered. Furthermore the number one foodstuff of Corian is beef as they have what can almost be considered a religious fervor for the slaying and eating of cows and bulls.

The leaders of the nation are the three Arch-Bishops, leaders of temples at the major cities of Gard, Vesperin, and Ehrvin. They communicate by missive and run the nation as a group, promoting the great teachings of Uliphetes; namely those of cunning, magic, and compassion.

There is a class system in place in Corian. The religious leaders and their acolytes are at the top, known collectively as Uliber. Then the magi and warriors who are known as Sentir, or guardians, those who join the Order; the military branch of Corian. Thirdly come merchants of all types who are known as Berda. And lastly the commoners who usually wind up in labor, culinary, or construction jobs and are called Kerig.

While growing up those who seek to become Uliber are sent to the temples to learn. Those from warrior or mage families who wish to defend the nation are sent to the Serpent's Nests, academies where combat is taught alongside general studies. Berda are usually enrolled in trade schools at a young age, leaving the regular schools to the Kerig.

Regardless of class the people of Corian are encouraged, though not forced, to create a bond with one of the Ul-Serpentes; the white snakes who legends rumor are the children of Uliphetes. These small serpents form lifelong bonds with the people of Corian, using them for warmth and providing protection and companionship in return. The creatures are believed sacred and live roughly 13 to 15 years. Commonly a human will bond with two to three generations of one serpent's lineage.

The people of Corian view the Labyrinth with equal parts awe and distaste. Its magical artifacts hold great power, and they value power; but the uncertainty and the un-living nature of the place perturbs them. As their power, their magic, and their culture is derived from the living; from men and beasts, the idea of items of such power being borne of a place rather than a being doesn't mesh well with their religion. In the manner of all people of intellect many from Corian work around their dislike and mistrust of the place, knowing its value and hoping that Uliphetes will bless them with cunning enough to succeed where others have failed.

The higher casts of Corian have little to do with the other nations; their focus is on the internal running of the nation, and its protection. As such it is left to the Berda to forge the majority of the nation’s bonds and relations with other places; they do this primarily by trade. Corian is ore-rich, and their jewelers are keen businessmen, knowing when to push a price and when to back down even in major trades. Furthermore the nation has a large bounty of both cattle and salt, which is happily ships to other places in return for cloth, spices, and fresh fruits of which it has fairly little. For the most part these dealings have made the place a number of fond friends throughout their neighboring nations, and when forced to act on a bigger scale the Arch-Bishops are keen negotiators. Their projected stance is ever one of peace, yet like the great beast to whom they give praise they keep their fangs ever-sharp and in dealings with smaller or weaker nations are always looking for the right time to strike.

What are your reasons for crossing the Gate of the Labyrinth?: He has decided to venture into the labyrinth in quest of a fortune to call his own. Despite the dangers, despite the risk, and despite the minute chance of success... Because in his free time he has been studying the holy books of his people. He has learned of ancient beasts long since deemed deceased where he comes from. Horned beasts graced with immortality... Birds which died and were reborn time and again. Because if he had the funding he could get his instructors to listen to him, to help him research the creatures, and attempt to call upon their magicks... He could solve Death, and get his sister back.

How would you describe yourself?: At a glance most people would consider Cenric cold, jaded, and shut-off due to his weary and somewhat intimidating appearance. This, however, could not be further from the truth. Cen, unfortunately or not, fits well into the stereotype of a gently giant. He is friendly, caring, and hospitable to any who give him the time of day. While he can be a bit morbid at times due to his somewhat less than pleasant background he is never intentionally mean or startling, and can in fact be quite soft-spoken, leading people to pay close attention when he does raise his voice.

And your morals and ideals?: If one word could summarize the way Cen sees the world; it's respect. A proper respect for his peers, his betters, and those less fortunate means he treats everyone well regardless of their station so long as they do the same to him. But it also means that he doesn't hold anyone above himself. He believes that with hard work and effort anyone can surpass anyone else; be it a friend, a teacher, or death itself.

What do you consider yourself to be skilled in?:
Despite his poor vision and general clumsiness Cenric is an able and adept learner, capable of picking up new information and learning new skills at a fairly accelerated pace; a skill which aided him greatly in his late transition from metal to magic amidst the Order.

Any fears or weaknesses that you hold?:
Despite himself Cen shares the fear of most younger Corians. He fears bulls, believing despite his claims that "It's just superstition" that they are vessels of Vaen, and out to endanger or actively harm people.

Which part of your body do you value the most?: His left hand. The hand with which he weilds his sword, the one upon which the first of his Marks of the Order were scrawled, and the one which bears the tattoo of his sister's name.

Stats:

Strength: 5
Leg Stuff: 6
Dexterity: 2
Homogenized Body Stuff: 7

A fire-blackened land, devoid of living plant life. Stuck in perpetual darkness, the sky is occupied by a massive moon, easily five times larger than what it appears to be like outside of the Labyrinth. The trees that dot the landscape are bare of leaves, mere skeletons that rake the starless night. The moonlight that shines on them makes their white branches glow, There are no sounds present in this silent wasteland. No animals, no wind, nothing.