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CitrusArms Space Spatula
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Knight-Inquisitor of Caesonia
Stratya Durmand, 26, Female
Stratya Durmand, 26, Female
Appearance
Height: 5'6"
Weight: 150 lbs
Eye Color: Brown
Hair Length/Texture: Long and silky
Hair Color: Light Brown
Skin Color: Fair
Facial details(freckles, moles, etc): A freckle here or there
Distinguishing features: Plain but pretty, Stratya is most commonly distinguished by her uniform.
Clothing Preferences: Simple clothes. They let her blend in among the people. She can get away for a quiet drink occasionally, like that.
Psychology
Likes:
Peace and prosperity, music, good food
Dislikes:
Cheap beer, laziness, competitive pressure
Sexuality:
Bisexual
Hobbies:
Flute, singing, cooking, laying in the sun
Life Goals/Dreams:
Peace and safety for her people
Personality Summary:
Stratya is a simple woman with a sharp mind that thinks too much. She'd love to just lay on a hillside and play the flute or have a drink at the tavern all day, but unfortunately, there's much work to be done. She's fairly easy-going, which can cause people to lower their guard to her. Her sergeants usually handle discipline, but she's been known to handle certain cases herself. She might tell a petty thief "ten million years dungeon" with a straight face and then walk away, only to release the poor fellow within the next month while acting like she's completely forgotten about him, instead of it having been her intention from the start.
Background
Current occupation:
Inquisitor-Knight Captain
Any past occupations?:
Baker, Soldier (2 years), Knight (4 years)
Relatives:
Common folk. Father, mother, brothers and sisters. None so distinguished as to be known by the courts.
Skills:
Flute and vocals, cooking, swordplay
History Summary:
A young girl in a small farming village worked in her mother's bakery, helping to make the bread and often carrying the bread throughout her village to the various shops that needed it. Her father was a guard for the village, and he took the time to teach her a bit of swordplay. She was actually quite good, and as she got older, she began to be a challenge for him to keep up with.
One day, while on her delivery rounds for lunch, the lass did witness an incident between her father, a member of the town guard, and a criminal. Her father suffered injury in combat and, incited, the young lady did charge. She set her basket of bread down without spilling any as she came forward, picked up her father's dropped sword, and disabled the criminal's sword hand before pinning him down while more guardsmen came to make an arrest.
Stratya Durmand began her service to the crown as a common soldier at the age of 18, but through persistent service to the populace beyond her duties as a soldier, she was recognized for excellence and brought into knighthood. As a knight, a sharp mind quickly made her the knight to see for investigations of a wide variety.
The investigation that earned her the rank of Captain was the shattering of an underground sorcerer's ring, and the capture of at least a dozen gathered magic-users, and the elimination of just a few violent resistors. She used a small, well-organized squad of knights to round up those that tried to escape. That was two years ago. Since then, she has made for herself quite the name with hard work and solid deductions.
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Lava Alckon
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1 mo ago
Farim Hafiz Kadir * 24 * Male
Appearance
Height:
6'1"
Weight:
180 pounds
Eye Color:
Light blue
Hair Length/Texture:
Medium length (down to neck) and wavy
Hair Color:
Brown
Skin Color:
Lighter tan
Facial details:
stubble surrounding his chin and jaw, up to his ears, square-like face with a chiseled jaw, well kept facial hair
Distinguishing features:
resting eyelids, as if looking at you sensually, trimmed nails, and a proud cadence to his walk. He wears an intriguing necklace with a pale blue stone adorning the pendant.
Clothing Preferences:
1.) Long robes with turban headpieces
2.) Golden attachments and fillaments with his clothes
3.) Mostly covers his skin, but has a couple "special outfits" for when he's feeling bold
Psychology
Likes:
1.) Money/gems/jewelry
2.) Socializing, as well as learning peoples social "quirks"
3.) Dancing on occaision
4.) Music - specifically more "pop-like" pieces
5.) Good food, of any kind
6.) Beautiful women
7.) His pet falcon, Thara
Dislikes:
1.) Being commanded/looked down on
2.) Rude people
3.) Gambling/risking money
4.) Violence
5.) Failure
Sexuality:
Heterosexual
Hobbies:
1.) Tending to his Falcon
2.) Reading
3.) Dancing
4.) Painting
Life Goals/Dreams:
1.) Highest title of nobility he can achieve without brute force
2.) To live peacefully until he grows old, preferabbly having continued his bloodline
Personality Summary:
Farim is a rather kind-seeming soul, and does not put off much in the form of an aggressive or imposing nature. He is certainly eccentric, loud, and is not afraid to declare who he is or what he thinks of himself, but he knows there is a time and a place for everything. He is social, seeks to please if he can, but will back off if given the cold shoulder or a rude attitude. He's had to put his foot down before, and will usually wait until he's deemed things have "gone too far" before really asserting himself.
For his friends and cousins, he will typically ignore their minor flaws or quirks since he knows them more personally, looking past them to maintain good relations. For his family, he is usually a little more concerned for their well-being and social status. He tries to help them rectify any misdeeds or guide them to a less "deviant" path. In spite of all this, even Farim knows how to have a good time, and when to let loose. Once he picks a direction, whether it be stern, fun, loose, or strict, he will usually stick with that mentality for some time, sometimes the rest of the day.
Background
Current occupation:
Master Tradesman
Any past occupations?:
None
Relatives:
1.) Sultan Raif Kadir - Uncle
2.) Grand Vizier Hafiz Kadir - Father
3.) His fellow Shehzadi
Skills:
1.) Economic knowledge
2.) Falconeering
3.) Dagger/sword-work
4.) Dancing
5.) Fashion sense
6.) Self-defense fighting (Krav Maga)
7.) Sleight of Hand
History Summary:
Farim started his youth constantly wandering the halls of his fathers palace, who was much too busy to be an actual father. Farim often gave his caretakers the slip, wanting to peruse the more common areas of town, and mixing amongst the "commonfolk" to see what it was like. While on one of his trips through the markets, he would meet a boy his age by the name of Malik, who he quickly got along with. Their friendship blossomed over the next few years as they would wander the markets and sometimes the palace gardens, ever so careful to not catch the ire of Farim's family.
One day, the boys came across a small book shop, seemingly innocent in nature. They walked amongst the shelves and would frequent many books, asking the owner for any rare titles he came across. However, they grew to trust this older man a little too well, and Farim would pay a heavy price for his carelessness. The owner enticed young Malik with a book on birds, his favorite topic to read about, and murdered the young boy in cold blood. Farim informed his father of these happenings, which got the shopkeeper "removed" from the capital and Farim under even heavier watch.
From there, he became more calculating and determined to shape the world into a better place. He learned everything he could from the books in the palace about economics, politics, and whatever else he could find that would further his goal of creating a trade empire under the Kadir name. By age 18, he had began to understand the financial workings of the city of Genasea and sought to establish his own trading company, specializing in mineral and luxury imports from across the desert sands. The country was vast and not many ways to safely traverse the desert meant an easy way for Farim to guarantee success. Within a few years he is already accumulated his own vast treasury, and seeks to expand his company beyond the borders of Alidasht if he can.
He has spent his days simply honing his skills and knowledge as best he can, wanting to be better than his father. The Grand Vizier may have earned the respect of other nobles, but not Farim. He knows his fathers mannerisms, and has always received a cold treatment from the man. He knows he can't change much...yet, but he will bide his time until he can rise to a higher position above his father and hopefully put the man in his place.
Questionnaire
History
Did you grow up nurtured or neglected?:
Nurtured
When you were upset, where was your sanctuary?:
The private study in my chambers
What were you like in your teenage years?:
Experimental, trying new things, learning what I can, and making several mistakes along the way
How close are you to your parents?:
Close enough to know what to like and not like.
Do you have any trauma that haunts you?:
Yes.
What advice would you give your younger self?:
Know when you're biting off more than you can chew.
Were you an obedient child or defiant?:
Defiant, secretly of course.
What is your biggest regret?:
Losing my best friend.
Romance
Have you ever been in love?:
I've met a few fair maidens that have caught my eye, but nothing has truly stuck long term.
What is most important in a partner to you? Describe your dream partner.: Someone who knows what they need and what they want, and isn't afraid to talk about it.
How do you display affection? What is your love language?:
Through physical affection and listening to the needs of my partner in the moment. I also like to bestow gifts on someone often.
Have you had your first kiss? What was it like?:
Yes. It was a simple and pleasant moment that reminded me that not all the best joys are in gold and riches.
Do you believe in love at first sight? Why or why not?:
No. Love is something you must build over time, nourish and care for as if it were a delicate flower.
What does marriage mean to you?:
Marriage, to me, is something you should carefully consider, whether its for power or for pleasure. It can be uplifting or very destructive
Are you currently crushing on anyone?:
No, but I am certainly ready to find someone to disprove that.
Do you ever consider having children in the future?:
Yes. I would love to have several children to further the family tree along.
Personality
Describe your ideal Sunday morning:
Waking up, enjoying the early morning with a full deluxe breakfast. I'd look out the window and see the stretching buildings of my homeland, knowing that I could or have already help build that empire.
What kind of person do you aspire to be?:
A succesful one. A man whose managed to father some children and raise a trade empire with his own two hands. Surely manageable enough, no?
What bad habits do you have?:
Ah, I must say it has to be my ego. It can grow rather large at times, but it's all in good fun! I tend to spend more time socializing for pleasure than for personal gain, very rare for someone of my status I am told by my ever so loving father.
If you could go back in time and change anything in your past, what would it be?:
Everything that happened in that dreaded bookshop...
What is your greatest fear?:
That I will fade into nothing, and become just another grain of sand in the vast desert of life.
What are your pet peeves?:
Being bored, being interupted, burnt food, manipulative people, brutish types. Why some solve with fists what can be solved with some good drink and a simple conversation, I'll never know.
Oh, and if you don't want to be on my bad side, never talk ill of my fellow Shehazdi. My father you may dig on all you wish, but if you bring ill will against any of the others, I can and will look past my own preferences. You have been warned, my friend.
When you are in a sour mood, do you like to be alone or with others?:
Honestly it is hard to say. Most likely alone to tend to my thoughts, or perhaps in the company of someone close and important to me. One or the other I would say, but no more.
Are you more likely to fight with your fists or your tongue?:
My tongue of course! I like to de-escalate when I can but even I know sometimes a fight is unavoidable. It is why I even carry a blade or learn to fight, at least what I could pick up.
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Blizz Grand Chancellor Supreme of the Wizard Council
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Grand Chancellor Supreme of the Wizard Council
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in 3435 days
Major General Lyra Carris | 47 | Female
Appearance
Height
5”8’
Weight
185
Eye Color
Crimson red
Hair Length/Texture
Straight, hanging in twisted ends in the middle of her back.
Hair Color
Black
Skin Color
Pale
Facial details
There is not a blemish to be seen. She could pass as royalty.
Distinguishing features
Her gaze could cut through a solid steel shield, like she sees into your soul.
Clothing Preferences
Pragmatic, like the uniform of a general, or classy.
Psychology
Likes:
Roses
Travel
Books
History
Duels of skill
Dislikes:
Living too fast
The cold
Braggarts
Violence
Dishonor
Sexuality
Lesbian
Hobbies
Swordplay, political intrigue, and lorekeeping.
Life Goals/Dreams
To stop this bleak cycle before it begins again…
Personality Summary
General Carris is an elusive woman. Despite her military ranking, she holds herself in high enough regards that one might confuse her for a duke’s wife. Status does not win anyone favor with her, she looks to the unseen parts of people to gauge who they are. Any military leader worth remembering knows not to disregard the things they don’t see. She commands an air of respect that implies she would grab a king’s son by the wrist and shout him into oblivion in front of a crowd if he had the nerve to disrespect her. Carris typically comes off as a dignified and reserved woman until spectacles such as that occur. It is common to see Lyra entertaining a conversation with noblewomen with vested interest. Much like a duke looking to lay claim to a beauty, she can rarely resists a pretty face.
Background
Current occupation
Retired
Past occupations
Major General of a distant kingdom
Relatives
None to speak of
Skills
Mastery of swordsmanships
All things related to riding and caring for a horse
Fathomless worldly knowledge
Speaks languages you’ve never heard of
History Summary
"There is no other way."
"You can't-"
"I have to."
"If you do this, there won't be anything left."
"That is exactly the point."
"There must be some other way, anything else. This- this is insanity."
"What other way would there be? Tell me."
"I don't- I- Listen to me! We'll figure something out!"
"By the time we do, it will be too late."
"...Do you really know what you're doing?"
"Of course. We'll make it out alive."
"You're scaring me with all this."
"I know. I will shelter you when it begins. They won't harm anyone else. I'll make sure of it."
"You can't protect everyone anymore. There are too many."
"I wiil."
Questionnaire
History
Did you grow up nurtured or neglected?:
”In my youth, I was raised to stand up for myself.”
When you were upset, where was your sanctuary?:
”I had little safety that wasn’t won or secured. The cellar of my childhood home was turned into my own semblance of a library when I learned to read.”
What were you like in your teenage years?:
”They were so long ago. I can barely recall.”
How close are you to your parents?:
”They are…long dead.”
Do you have any trauma that haunts you?:
”Enough to fulfill a hundred lifetimes.”
What advice would you give your younger self?:
”…”
Were you an obedient child or defiant?:
”I learned to think for myself by the time I could write my name on paper.”
What is your biggest regret?:
”That is a story for another day.”
Romance
Have you ever been in love?:
”Yes… A very long time ago.”
What is most important in a partner to you? Describe your dream partner?:
”To love again, I would be a different person altogether. There is no one left in this world for me.”
How do you display affection? What is your love language?:
”I enjoy showing myself through my actions and my words. There is a school of thought that battle is the truest form of expression, where the soul is laid bare as the words in a book.”
Have you had your first kiss? What was it like?:
”I may write a thousand songs, and a thousand more poems. None would ever come to overshadow the majesty of her lips.”
Do you believe in love at first sight? Why or why not?:
”I would like to believe if such a thing is true, I might have found it yet again by now.”
What does marriage mean to you?:
”It is a beautiful thing that I have never had the honor of taking part in.”
Are you currently crushing on anyone?:
”No…”
Do you ever consider having children in the future?:
”I unable to bare children anymore. I am not a mother. I never will be.”
Personality
Describe your ideal Sunday morning:
"Peaceful, quiet, solitude. There'd be nothing but the day before me."
What kind of person do you aspire to be?:
"I haven't aspired to be one particular person in years. I've become who I am already."
What bad habits do you have?:
"It is true that I don't believe I'll ever truly love again, but I can't resist a pretty face regardless."
If you could go back in time and change anything in your past, what would it be?:
"I don't have enough words to truly convey the things I would change. There are so many..."
What is your greatest fear?:
"I don't fear anything. Not anymore."
What are your pet peeves?:
"The ego of one who has the gall to think themselves my better without a sense of familiarity between us."
When you are in a sour mood, do you like to be alone or with others?:
"I have found that the peace of isolation is what puts my mind at ease the most."
Are you more likely to fight with your fists or your tongue?:
"My blade."
M A T H I L D A V O S
P S Y C H O L O G Y
F E M A L E ⋆ M A I D
1 8 ⋆ 5 ' 7 " ⋆ 1 1 5 L B S
D A R K H A I R ⋆ B R O W N E Y E S ⋆ P A L E S K I N
1 8 ⋆ 5 ' 7 " ⋆ 1 1 5 L B S
D A R K H A I R ⋆ B R O W N E Y E S ⋆ P A L E S K I N
L I K E S
D I S L I K E S
F E A R S
⋆ Cleaning
⋆ Tea
⋆ Reading
⋆ Music
⋆ Cats
⋆ Tea
⋆ Reading
⋆ Music
⋆ Cats
D I S L I K E S
⋆ Messes
⋆ Getting in trouble
⋆ Cynicism
⋆ Getting in trouble
⋆ Cynicism
F E A R S
⋆ Embarrassing her Masters
⋆ Dissatisfying Guests
⋆ Large Events
⋆ Dissatisfying Guests
⋆ Large Events
P E R S O N A L I T Y
Having grown up within the walls of the Danrose Castle, Mathilda cheerful upholds her honorary role as staff of the royal family. She serves with a whimsical bit tedious demeanor. Her fine attention to detail comes naturally and is a great comfort to many of the nobles.
She believes her service is to alleviate the stress of the nobles while they reign the kingdom. These duties come in various degrees, sometimes even in forms of prominent conversation. For these reasons, she enjoys reading and educating herself to keep her wit on its toes.
Unfortunately, Mathilda does suffer from a shyness at her core. Larger events exhaust her, but she musters up the courage to work through the dilemma. Just like her parents, she does not take vacations, in fear of disrupting her work, and during her spare time, she retraces any of her mistakes to better herself for her next line of service. She is an excellent maid and looks forward to being of the head maids.
She believes her service is to alleviate the stress of the nobles while they reign the kingdom. These duties come in various degrees, sometimes even in forms of prominent conversation. For these reasons, she enjoys reading and educating herself to keep her wit on its toes.
Unfortunately, Mathilda does suffer from a shyness at her core. Larger events exhaust her, but she musters up the courage to work through the dilemma. Just like her parents, she does not take vacations, in fear of disrupting her work, and during her spare time, she retraces any of her mistakes to better herself for her next line of service. She is an excellent maid and looks forward to being of the head maids.
B A C K G R O U N D
O C C U P A T I O N
Maid
L I V I N G I M M E D I A T E F A M I L Y M E M B E R S
N/A
D E A D I M M E D I A T E F A M I L Y M E M B E R S
F A T H E R
Elric Danrose
Elric Danrose
M O T H E R
Mariam Danrose
Mariam Danrose
C U R R E N T C O M P A N I O N S
N/A
C U R R E N T A N D P A S T L O V E R (S)
N/A
H I S T O R Y
Born and raised by a butler and maid of the Danrose Castle, Mathilda was raised on the various stories and likings within the castle’s walls. She was taught the importance of her role. In fact, her bedtime stories were accounts what happened to her parents and other staff of the castle – how such-and-such situations could have been adverted. One bedtime story her father once told her was how an honorary guest was impressed with the king's cutlery (that her father had chosen) after an otherwise unprosperous dinner and decided to turn around the conversation and agree to the king's words.
Her family never left to go on vacation, and when they did leave the castle it was to attend a guild for servers. Frequently at the Guild, due to her parents being staff at the Danrose Castle, her parents would relay many of their incidents and antidotes for various situations. Mathilda believed being a maid was a completely natural occurrence, and she should be thankful to have such an opportunity in her life.
When her father became ill during her adolescent years, he never made the illness known. He worked to the best of his ability, still denying anything was wrong. He was proud of his work as a butler and could not imagine any other way of life. His loyalty to the king was so astonishing that when he fell ill during an event and dropped a platter, he spent days during his spare time retracing that very incident (a practice Mathilda picked up). Eventually, when he had died, her mother had been too preoccupied with her own service to witness his death — just as her father had wanted. He would never have wanted to disrupt the comfort of the king by burdening the staff by the absence of his wife’s presence.
Mathilda’s mother died two years ago, the same year that Mathilda became a maid. Unlike her mother, Mathilda took time from work to tend to her mother’s death. For this reason, she feels quite at odds with her own ability to be as good of a staff for the castle. However, she is determined not to let this snuff any her otherwise excellent keeping.
Her family never left to go on vacation, and when they did leave the castle it was to attend a guild for servers. Frequently at the Guild, due to her parents being staff at the Danrose Castle, her parents would relay many of their incidents and antidotes for various situations. Mathilda believed being a maid was a completely natural occurrence, and she should be thankful to have such an opportunity in her life.
When her father became ill during her adolescent years, he never made the illness known. He worked to the best of his ability, still denying anything was wrong. He was proud of his work as a butler and could not imagine any other way of life. His loyalty to the king was so astonishing that when he fell ill during an event and dropped a platter, he spent days during his spare time retracing that very incident (a practice Mathilda picked up). Eventually, when he had died, her mother had been too preoccupied with her own service to witness his death — just as her father had wanted. He would never have wanted to disrupt the comfort of the king by burdening the staff by the absence of his wife’s presence.
Mathilda’s mother died two years ago, the same year that Mathilda became a maid. Unlike her mother, Mathilda took time from work to tend to her mother’s death. For this reason, she feels quite at odds with her own ability to be as good of a staff for the castle. However, she is determined not to let this snuff any her otherwise excellent keeping.
O T H E R
N/A
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PRISCILLA RUE EDWARDS
Appearance
Height: 5"9
Weight: 155lb
Eye Color: Grey
Hair Length/Texture: Thick, coarse, and recently made into a bob due to an ill-placed piece of taffy in her hair.
Hair Color: Ginger
Skin Color: Light and peachy
Facial details(freckles, moles, etc): A mole is on either side of her lips, and when she smiles out come the dimples.
Distinguishing features: Everything about her SHOULD be distinguishing-- with all the time she spends planning her outfits she would hate to look anything but. But her eyes catch light seeemingly stronger than others. Her grey eyes catch spotlights under full, fluttering eyelashes. It would be pretty if it were not for her almost permanent scrutinizing glares.
Clothing Preferences:
Priscilla Edwards is a trendsetter. As a patron of the arts she pays attention to the innovative and helps to spread the new fashion to the rest of the nobility-- and thus they trickle it down to the masses. But everyone knows she loves accessories. She loves objects with meticulous details to carve and shape them. Pearls are her favorite to wear-- though she loves stones and crystals too.
Psychology
Likes:
| ☀chocolate covered pretzels ☀running at dawn before the servants come into the fields ☀planning events | ☀her own appearance: a true achievement ☀philanthropy, despite the rumors calling her an absolute prissy prick she does care for making Sorian a better place to live. if her father isn't going to get to it in his life time then she will. ☀reading, all of it: philosophic essays, stories, poetry, etc. |
| ☁actually getting to know commoners...they're so busy working what interests do they even have.... ☁showing vulnerability ☁the sound of her laugh | ☁being compared to others, it is her driving force to become beautiful and thus incomporable ☁being assumed weak due to embracing her femininity-- she still assures she is one of the strongest runners of at-least the city if not weighed down by the layers of her skirt. ☁getting negative critiques |
Sexuality: heterosexual
Hobbies:
Shopping
Decorating Cakes
Painting Nails(all her female attendants have pretty hands)
Playing the piano
Reading
Life Goals/Dreams:
To better the living situations of the poor so that all of her lovely Sorian can be as pretty as she wants it to be.
Have a statue put up in her honor for such efforts.
Personality Summary:
Negative experiences in her youth have deepened her already existing insecurity-- but she tries not to let it dampen her ambitions to make a better Sorian. It's already hard to do as a woman, but Priscilla never half-asses her efforts. However, because she strives to never show weakness she can come across as a simple mighty bitch. She is tough but as long as she does not feel pressured by others, she is kind enough to prevent people from feeling as she used to. Hopefully, there are people who recognize that, and they would have to be quite observant to do so as she also likes to be. One must know a situation fully so they can gauge their place in it. Observant in any situation, she is one who finds joy in details. It's made her quite a workaholic-- as much as a noble lady can be.
Background
Current occupation: Patron of the Sorian Arts College, Socialite Noble, Fundraising Event Organizer for Clear Roads(a charity for improving living conditions and finding jobs for the poor, does have its flaws.)
Any past occupations?:
N/A
Relatives:
Duke Gideon Edwards - Father
Duchess Victoria Edwards - Mother
____ - Siblings?
Skills:
Running
Overthinking social situations
Any ballroom dance and activity suitable for a gathering of nobility
Remembering small details-- nearly to the point of photographic memory.
Decorating
History Summary:
Father threw parties for a week after her birth-- and to attend them, her mother left her daughter's care to the maids. This is not to say they did not spend time with their daughter. She was present with them in public and whenever they were bored. As time grew on it was deemed that she would not be a great beauty like her mother. At first, her mother had more grief than Priscilla herself. She was good with her letters, piano, drawing, and the sciences--it did not matter one bit that her nose was too big and teeth unaligned. In the hopes of being able to find a marriage for her without anyone bearing witness to the unfortunate features she would pass down to her children, Victoria sent her daughter away to boarding school until she grew into a young woman. It was the worst times of her life-- and created a strong bitterness that only made her progress worse. To run away from this, she became dedicated to her accomplishments to bolster her image.
Then came the day when the ugly duckling became a swan. All portraits of her had been ripped down or Priscilla didn't even appear in. And when she looked in the mirror after the wires came out of her mouth, her ears and nose matched the rest of her features, and she had been treated for that unfortunate spine misalignment, she rejected any memory of what she used to look like. But it won't define her.
Priscilla today is a socialite that despite her blunt remarks time and time again-- has her work and family name keeping her present in noble life. If not that, then the few friends she keeps certainly do.
Questionnaire
History
Did you grow up nurtured or neglected?:
"Growing up ugly meant I did not deserve attention from my mother, but at least my accomplishments gave me some praise from my father. I was neglected by my mother but as soon as I became another resource for her to gain pretty things she stifles me with care to preserve me. It's so obvious! I see past it all!"
When you were upset, where was your sanctuary?:
"Our house is too gaudy to find a place of comfort in any space. Our great-grandfather was avid on raising horses and had an old track a bit east. My grandfather eventually purchased more land closer to our estate and thus most of our horsekeeping is there. I still go to the paths of the old tracks to take care of some flowers I grow myself and to run, sometimes watch the sunrise. It's quiet and the old, worn down fences keep most big animals out still."
What were you like in your teenage years?:
"Unappealing. If you had any sense you would have NEVER asked me that! Do you know how many places I could have you blacklisted for trying to humiliate me with remarks on my past! Even now---"
How close are you to your parents?:
"Oh? In public or in private? In any case both of them pick and choose-- my father is close to me in terms of my career and my achievements- and my mom only loves my new beauty and only appears to go to an occasion or shop together. Don't give me that look."
Do you have any trauma that haunts you?:
"They used to make fun of me when I was there. They spilled sticky pudding on my gown. They were all mean and isn't it only because I was ugly that everyone got mad at me for also being mean? I still hear it sometimes-- in my own voice now."
What advice would you give your younger self?:
"Don't eat lunch in the cafeteria."
Were you an obedient child or defiant?:
"Well, I mean-- there weren't many rules to defy? Everyone knows my parents are too busy in their own heads. But...hm hm hm, I defy things when they're stupid and I can do better."
What is your biggest regret?:
"Auditioning to sing a solo for my secondary school's winter fundraising banquet."
Romance
Have you ever been in love? :
"I used to fall in love with the idea of falling in love with someone...But I'm not stupid. Anyone who comes to me now only wishes for status."
What is most important in a partner to you? Describe your dream partner.:
"I wish they'd have short term memory loss. Any unsightly occasion of mine would always be forgotten, he'd never have time to become tired of me."
How do you display affection? What is your love language?:
"Romantic? I don't. But I always make quality time for my friends and the bestest best of the gifts. I only have few I could give gifts to anyway."
Have you had your first kiss? What was it like?:"The only time I had been kissed was before I grew into myself. It was at the age of 12, I had metal wires to tug a snaggle tooth down and a boy who had been given quite a sum of money for a bet had his lip caught in it. It wasn't on purpose! He caught me by surprise! And DESERVED IT!"
Do you believe in love at first sight? Why or why not?:
"Yes-- not the true love everyone prizes though. People are more shallow than they give themselves credit for, including me."
What does marriage mean to you?:
"Something better in concept than execution. Peoplee write it so beautifully but proven by my own parents is the futility in getting married to fall in love."
Are you currently crushing on anyone?:
"Not really. I don't do anything anymore that doesn't haave a 100% definite chance of success."
Do you ever consider having children in the future?:
"I've resigned myself to it. It seeems to be an inevitable fate."
Personality
Describe your ideal Sunday morning:
"It would be alone. I haven't had one in quite a while-- with brunches and picnics and other events. I'd wake up late and go down to the kitchens to choose what I want prepared for breakfast-- cravings are so fickle you know? I'd dress myself and take a book to read while dipping my feet in one of the ponds we have in the estate. Eventuaally breakfast is brought out to me and I am ready to sit by the piano to compose a piece!"
What kind of person do you aspire to be?:"I try not to have any expectations of myself to set up for disappointment. I'd like to be proud of the person I am already, it's taken so much work to be this."
What bad habits do you have?:
"I'm told I'm negative. It's a hard habit to break--- but I've been instilled with too much sadness and scrutinity can you blame me!? Why should I have to apologize nowadays for being curt-- I'm being honest and realistic."
If you could go back in time and change anything in your past, what would it be?:
"Going to boarding school was almost traumatizing, but it made me ambitious. If I had to change anything--- I'd keep my mother from trying to find an arranged marriage for me. I still have to socialize with these pricks who rejected my prospects of being both an unappealing bride and having my gaudy parents as in-laws."
What is your greatest fear?:
"I'm scared my efforts won't work. That everyone will discount me...invalidate me...and to lose this place where I finally fit in in some way."
What are your pet peeves?:
"Too many to list. But I hate people who cut others off the most! Then there are people who take up too much room at a dining table and tall people who sit in front of me at the theater without leaning to a side!"
When you are in a sour mood, do you like to be alone or with others?:"Alone. It's like-- if I let anyone know I'm truly angry then I lose? But my face seems to make everyone think I'm always in a sour mood."
Are you more likely to fight with your fists or your tongue?:
"....Nowadays, tongue. But if Lady Harlow wanted to continue the tussle from boarding school right now I'd finish the job on that stupid necklace she said I copied from her and that stupid face."
3x Like
coGM
The Edwards
These are brand new NPCs who need some offspring!
Duke Gideon and Duchess Victoria preside of the capital city of Sorian directly under the King and Queen. Gideon is often viewed as the noble who cares the most(mistakenly). He is extremely ambitious to the point of near-obsession with being the man who changes the world for the better. He loves to give big inspirational speeches and likes to lead by example. However, he's not the wisest despite his charisma and has not made much progress for Sorian at all. King Edin has never noticed this as he always takes him at face value. His wife, Victoria, thinks he is insane for even trying. They fight all the time over their extremely different ideals. To her, they've made it, and they're rich. What else matters? She instead spends her time delighting in luxuries and enjoying the fact she's better than everyone else. To say the least, everyone can tell they were an arranged marriage.
2x Like
Terrance420
Member
Seen
2 yrs ago
1x Like
Apex Sunburn Justified text enjoyer
Member
Seen
1 day ago
Hi! Thought I'd drop by and express tentative interest before joining the Discord; would hate to pop in and pop out again if my idea falls through. Just in case I missed anything, this RP is pre-industrial, yes? Does that mean no muskets or any sort of gunpowder technology? As of now, I have a lesser noble/merchantman character in mind and it'd help me describe their vessel if it comes to it.
Also, does the character have to be from the map, or can we go beyond map borders? I was thinking of a lesser noble from a faraway land on a trade mission (maybe with an agenda of their own). If necessary, I can do up maps of the region myself.
Also, does the character have to be from the map, or can we go beyond map borders? I was thinking of a lesser noble from a faraway land on a trade mission (maybe with an agenda of their own). If necessary, I can do up maps of the region myself.
Heartfillia
Member
Seen
1 yr ago
@Apex Sunburnheya discord is a bit easier to get all your questions answered, and we are really cool about newcomers joining to ask questions. BUUUT If you prefer this way I’ll boop princess and potter for you.
I can say there are muskets. there are trains and type writers and steam engines. It’s a Victorian age fantasy. So not everything is exactly historical if you get what I mean.
And no they don’t have to be, I believe we have one person who isn’t from any of the set kingdoms, but that’s a question for princess.
We do have a merchant/ lesser nobleman right now. @ReusableSword So you might want to ask if he’s ok with a similar character.
Hope you stay interested!
I can say there are muskets. there are trains and type writers and steam engines. It’s a Victorian age fantasy. So not everything is exactly historical if you get what I mean.
And no they don’t have to be, I believe we have one person who isn’t from any of the set kingdoms, but that’s a question for princess.
We do have a merchant/ lesser nobleman right now. @ReusableSword So you might want to ask if he’s ok with a similar character.
Hope you stay interested!
1x Like
coGM
Hi! Thought I'd drop by and express tentative interest before joining the Discord; would hate to pop in and pop out again if my idea falls through. Just in case I missed anything, this RP is pre-industrial, yes? Does that mean no muskets or any sort of gunpowder technology? As of now, I have a lesser noble/merchantman character in mind and it'd help me describe their vessel if it comes to it.
Also, does the character have to be from the map, or can we go beyond map borders? I was thinking of a lesser noble from a faraway land on a trade mission (maybe with an agenda of their own). If necessary, I can do up maps of the region myself.
This is a fantasy world that def goes post-industrial. We are casually picking and choosing what it features. You can be from a faraway land; I plan on eventually expanding map, but I am not going to delve into faraway lands or build upon them yet for the sake of simplicity.
I want to remind you that this has a heavy focus on romance/drama with twinkles of mystery and magic. Does your idea fit into this realm ? Let us know if you were perceiving the story differently.
Transportation:
- Trains
- Horse Carriages
- Hot Air Balloons
- Ships/Steamboats
Home Necessities:
- Fridge contraption known as Ice Box
- Plumbing
- Lighting
What else?
- Old Camera with Tent (camera obscura)
- Typewriters
- Muskets/older style guns
1x Like
Apex Sunburn Justified text enjoyer
Member
Seen
1 day ago
<Snipped quote by Apex Sunburn>
This is a fantasy world that def goes post-industrial. We are casually picking and choosing what it features. You can be from a faraway land; I plan on eventually expanding map, but I am not going to delve into faraway lands or build upon them yet for the sake of simplicity.
I want to remind you that this has a heavy focus on romance/drama with twinkles of mystery and magic. Does your idea fit into this realm ? Let us know if you were perceiving the story differently.
Transportation:
- Trains
- Horse Carriages
- Hot Air Balloons
- Ships/Steamboats
Home Necessities:
- Fridge contraption known as Ice Box
- Plumbing
- Lighting
What else?
- Old Camera with Tent (camera obscura)
- Typewriters
- Muskets/older style guns
@Apex Sunburnheya discord is a bit easier to get all your questions answered, and we are really cool about newcomers joining to ask questions. BUUUT If you prefer this way I’ll boop princess and potter for you.
I can say there are muskets. there are trains and type writers and steam engines. It’s a Victorian age fantasy. So not everything is exactly historical if you get what I mean.
And no they don’t have to be, I believe we have one person who isn’t from any of the set kingdoms, but that’s a question for princess.
We do have a merchant/ lesser nobleman right now. @ReusableSword So you might want to ask if he’s ok with a similar character.
Hope you stay interested!
Thanks for the clarification!
Yes, I understand that this RP is heavier on drama; I'm not going to/planning on starting independent sub-plots unnecessarily. What I had in mind was to play a character who's either on the sidelines or interacts with established plotlines in some capacity for now...And I just realised I have essentially described roleplaying. I had some fun playing pretty much an NPC in a similar RP years ago - though back then I was too much of an NPC, so I'll be avoiding any behaviour/character traits that'll make them too passive.
Tech-wise, I wasn't expecting something historical, but the vibes I was getting from this was akin to regency/enlightenment era Europe, so I just wanted to be sure. Thanks for letting me know!
And I'll look over the CSes again to make sure I don't make a character too similar; I'll edit and adjust what I have in plan accordingly. It's still pretty vague and fluid, so I shouldn't have any problem doing so.
ReusableSword The (not so) Mighty.
Member
Seen
5 hrs ago
@Apex Sunburn hey im always up for another family member for roman he has a lot of family and the names are up for change if you want. the Ravenwood family are craftsmen and merchants at heart.
Apex Sunburn Justified text enjoyer
Member
Seen
1 day ago
@Apex Sunburn hey im always up for another family member for roman he has a lot of family and the names are up for change if you want. the Ravenwood family are craftsmen and merchants at heart.
Ah, damn, I already drafted my character to be a maritime trader of sorts ;;. I appreciate the offer, though! If this character falls through, I'll be sure to keep that in mind.
Apex Sunburn Justified text enjoyer
Member
Seen
1 day ago
Think I've more or less got it done; anymore and I'd be adding legs to snakes and going in circles. Let me know if it's acceptable!
Height: 1.78 m / 5'10"
Weight: 65 kg / 143 lbs
Eye Colour: Dark brown
Hair Length: Medium-short / Coarse
Hair Colour: Black
Skin Colour: Tanned
Facial Features:
Distinguishing Features:
Clothing Preferences: Anything that's loose and allows him freedom of movement. Preferably, he wears the side-fastened, cross-necked tunic favoured by his fellow Viserjantans. Two layers would be worn; a thin inner layer to wick away sweat, and a thicker, coarser outer layer to take the punishment of daily work. If at all possible, the inner shirt would be raw white, and the outer the yellow of the Viserjantan Commonwealth. Similarly, his pants would be loose to the knee. Below that it would be fastened to his shoes with wraps. A conical, straw-woven hat would sit atop his head; lightweight, but offering adequate shade from the sun.
In battle, he would throw a cut-down suit of lamellar armour over his clothes. Cuirass, shortened tassets, and leather gauntlets. The hat would be replaced with something of a similar shape, but hammered from sheet metal.
Likes:
Dislikes:
Sexuality: Straight, for what it's worth. As it stands, he's married to the damn sea.
Hobbies:
Life goals/Dreams: Sjan-dehk's didn't choose a goal as much as he was shepherded into one: to be a good future admiral for his brothers. For what it's worth, he has little qualms with this involuntary goal so long as it keeps him at sea.
However, as with everyone else, he does harbour private desires. For him, it is to sail the open seas as an adventurer of sorts; to explore new lands, meet new peoples, and embark on quests of epic proportions that would undoubtedly make a good song or story years down the line. All of that would, of course, involve the Sada Kurau and his crew. There can be no others.
Personality summary: Irreverent | Friendly | Merciless | Loyal | Unrefined | Generous
Anyone who doesn't know better would find it hard to believe that Sjan-dehk possesses any noble blood at all; the ease with which he inserts expletives into his speech and rough manners with regards to most things would - rather aptly - better belong amongst the drunken crew of a ship or a raunchy tavern. Just as well he prefers the two over courtly events which he finds too stuffy and restrained for his liking. You never know a person until they've drunk themselves silly, as he'd put it.
Still, he is an affable enough man. Quick with his laughs and jokes as he is with his coin. His loyalty, however, that one comes much slower, but once gained will make him a stalwart ally. Slights against you would be slights against him. Gods and ancestors help anyone who brings harm to one of his friends. He'd hunt them as eagerly as he hunts pirates. Very much the first man to jump to a friend's defense and last to abandon them in a fight.
However, that doesn't mean he's quick to draw his swords. Any good captain knows it's better to negotiate a peaceable surrender - of the enemy, that is - than to charge in cannons blazing and blades keen. As much as possible, he'll attempt to defuse tensions through words and perhaps even deals. Only when those fail would he show just how much wanton violence he is capable of.
And he is indeed capable of acts of viciousness. Ask any pirate who have had the fortune to run across the Sada Kurau. They will tell you of a voracious crew led by a merciless captain. The lucky ones die in battle. Survivors would either be made to toil for their former victims under threat of death or, if that is not possible, made examples of to dissuade future pirates. Pirates who dabbled in slavery won't even be taken prisoner; Sjan-dehk would simply fly the red flag of no quarter and slaughter any and all he came across.
Current Occupation: The 4th Lesser Marquis of Jafi; captain of the Sada Kurau
Past Occupation: N/A
Relatives
Skills
Every member of the Wasun clan of Jafi has their place. Be it heir, advisor, diplomat, or keeper of the household, their role in the bureaucratic apparatus that kept the march running would have been planned out long before they even quickened in the womb. A masterstroke of long-term planning, if Im-shan dared say so himself. Granted, it was down to pure luck that none of his children had any qualms of their future roles at court and all of them developed qualities beneficial to said roles. It was either that or a testament to the skills of his court tutors.
Sjan-dehk's conception, unexpected as it was, thus proved to be a conundrum. Small as Jafi's court was at the time, there simply weren't any duties left for this fourth son to perform. Of course, there always were lesser positions to fill. Largely managerial and administrative roles that kept the march running on the day-to-day, but Im-shan had no shortage of promising common officials to promote, and who would be very upset should Sjan-dehk be simply dropped into an office they saw as rightly theirs. Putting his own children in positions of his inner court was one thing. Doing the same in the greater court would be asking for an uprising.
With his wife's counsel, Im-shan decided that Sjan-dehk would find his future in the navy. Responsible for the most part of the defense of Viserjanta's western frontiers, Jafi boasted a considerable fleet that could rival the Royal Armada by raw numbers and which was twice as active. An excellent stage for any minor noble with slim chances of peerage to build a name and reputation for himself. If he did well enough, Sjan-dehk might even make admiral by the time Sai-jom became marquis. Even if he were to prove to be a middling sailor, just having a member of the ruling family serving in the navy would be quite the morale booster.
From almost as soon as he could walk, Sjan-dehk was thrust onto the deck of a warship. As a cabin boy, naturally; the lowest post anyone hoping to carve out a naval career could ask for. If his son was to be a sailor under arms, then Im-shan was determined to make him one through and through. There would be no illusions of birthright, no privileges granted over station. Whatever respect and rank Sjan-dehk received would have to be earned the same way as any other sailor - through hard graft, tough work, and time.
For his part, Sjan-dehk took to naval life like a fish to water. Life aboard a rolling deck suited him handsomely. Whether it was mending sails, scrubbing decks, or bringing powder to guns in the heat of battle, he carried out his duties to satisfaction and without complaint. By the tender age of twelve, he was already intimately familiar with the inner workings of a ship from bow to stern and top to keel. Two years later, he earned the sabre of an officer-in-training. One who was rearing to be unleashed on the high seas and upon the Commonwealth's enemies.
That chance came four years later, when dissatisfied nobles launched a rebellion aiming for an imperial restoration. Neutral Jafi attempted to stay out of the conflict, but eventually was forced to choose a side. Throwing its support behind crown and council, Sjan-dehk and the rest of the fleet was sent to campaign against the rebels. Months of intense combat tempered Sjan-dehk into a hardened veteran, but it was only when his initiative and daring proved decisive in the capture of an enemy ship was he promoted to captain. Taking the prize as his command, he renamed it the Sada Kurau and brought it into combat against her former allies.
The war dragged on for five long years. Sjan-dehk proved himself as a capable commander possessing great tactical acumen. As ship after ship fell against him, he used whatever prize money and confiscated loot to re-fit and rearm the Sada Kurau until it was the ship it is today. When the rebels were finally contained on a singular island, Sjan-dehk was sent against the various pirates and slavers who had taken advantage of the turmoil to raid sea lanes and settlements alike. The Sada Kurau soon earned a dubious reputation as a fearsome pirate hunter, but also capable of terrifying savagery against her enemies. Sjan-dehk cared little about such rumours. In fact, he encouraged them; it made his work all the easier if the mere presence of his ship made would-be pirates reconsider their decisions.
With the conclusive end of the war rose a Commonwealth more united than ever. Those who dreamed of a restoration had either been killed or captured in the fighting, or driven in the exile in the immediate aftermath. Crown and court never had more influence in their constituent polities. It was the perfect time to look to other matters. Trade was a top priority, even if only to refill coffers depleted by war.
Eromora was the furthest region of the world known to Viserjantan mariners. In the past, trade there had been limited to the odd merchant willing to risk coin and life to make the long journey. Well, that would soo change. The Commonwealth now sought to make a more permanent arrangement. To facilitate that, they built a massive treasure ship. Only one - the nobility who ultimately had to fund the thing weren't quite as confident about the task at hand as the crown and council.
As for Sjan-dehk, it was hardly his choice to join the Eromoran expedition. He'd much rather continue securing Jafi's waters than follow maps that were at least a decade old to some foreign land. Unfortunately, his mother had persuaded his father to persuade crown and council to have the Sada Kurau attached as an escort. Risky as the mission was, it was no secret that its success would make any man who took part very influential and very rich. Sjan-dehk was a good sailor, a respected captain, and skilled fighter, but he would need a little more than that to truly stand beside his brother as admiral in future.
That was how Sjan-dehk found himself and Sada Kurau bound for Eromora. Whatever personal feelings he had for the mission, he hadn't failed a task given to him before. He surely wasn't about to start.
Wasun Sjan-dehk // 25 \\ Male
The 4th Lesser Marquis of Jafi, under the auspices of High Queen Daraya II and the council of electors
Captain of the Sada Kurau
Captain of the Sada Kurau
Forget not our forebears
Height: 1.78 m / 5'10"
Weight: 65 kg / 143 lbs
Eye Colour: Dark brown
Hair Length: Medium-short / Coarse
Hair Colour: Black
Skin Colour: Tanned
Facial Features:
- Light freckles and sun spots speckled over his nose and cheeks
- A faded scar running down his left cheek, running almost parallel to his jaw
Distinguishing Features:
- A slight mischievous grin that never seems to leave his face
- Discoloured patches on the backs of both hands, from base of thumb to wrist
- Various healed wounds on his arms, legs, and torso
Clothing Preferences: Anything that's loose and allows him freedom of movement. Preferably, he wears the side-fastened, cross-necked tunic favoured by his fellow Viserjantans. Two layers would be worn; a thin inner layer to wick away sweat, and a thicker, coarser outer layer to take the punishment of daily work. If at all possible, the inner shirt would be raw white, and the outer the yellow of the Viserjantan Commonwealth. Similarly, his pants would be loose to the knee. Below that it would be fastened to his shoes with wraps. A conical, straw-woven hat would sit atop his head; lightweight, but offering adequate shade from the sun.
In battle, he would throw a cut-down suit of lamellar armour over his clothes. Cuirass, shortened tassets, and leather gauntlets. The hat would be replaced with something of a similar shape, but hammered from sheet metal.
Likes:
- His ship, the Sada Kurau
- Gentle seas and following winds
- Hunting pirates
- The rush of combat
- Old books, particularly historical texts and poetry
- Woodwind and string music - the sort one might find onboard a ship
- Simply being on the open water
Dislikes:
- The doldrums
- Spending more time than necessary ashore
- Political and courtly intrigue
- Nobles who have all of the pomp but none of the substance
- Roundabout ways of speaking
Sexuality: Straight, for what it's worth. As it stands, he's married to the damn sea.
Hobbies:
- Playing the flute
- Reading - both old and new texts
- Attempting to write music
- Attempting to write poetry
- Fishing
- Sharpening his combat skills - swordsmanship and marksmanship
Life goals/Dreams: Sjan-dehk's didn't choose a goal as much as he was shepherded into one: to be a good future admiral for his brothers. For what it's worth, he has little qualms with this involuntary goal so long as it keeps him at sea.
However, as with everyone else, he does harbour private desires. For him, it is to sail the open seas as an adventurer of sorts; to explore new lands, meet new peoples, and embark on quests of epic proportions that would undoubtedly make a good song or story years down the line. All of that would, of course, involve the Sada Kurau and his crew. There can be no others.
Personality summary: Irreverent | Friendly | Merciless | Loyal | Unrefined | Generous
Anyone who doesn't know better would find it hard to believe that Sjan-dehk possesses any noble blood at all; the ease with which he inserts expletives into his speech and rough manners with regards to most things would - rather aptly - better belong amongst the drunken crew of a ship or a raunchy tavern. Just as well he prefers the two over courtly events which he finds too stuffy and restrained for his liking. You never know a person until they've drunk themselves silly, as he'd put it.
Still, he is an affable enough man. Quick with his laughs and jokes as he is with his coin. His loyalty, however, that one comes much slower, but once gained will make him a stalwart ally. Slights against you would be slights against him. Gods and ancestors help anyone who brings harm to one of his friends. He'd hunt them as eagerly as he hunts pirates. Very much the first man to jump to a friend's defense and last to abandon them in a fight.
However, that doesn't mean he's quick to draw his swords. Any good captain knows it's better to negotiate a peaceable surrender - of the enemy, that is - than to charge in cannons blazing and blades keen. As much as possible, he'll attempt to defuse tensions through words and perhaps even deals. Only when those fail would he show just how much wanton violence he is capable of.
And he is indeed capable of acts of viciousness. Ask any pirate who have had the fortune to run across the Sada Kurau. They will tell you of a voracious crew led by a merciless captain. The lucky ones die in battle. Survivors would either be made to toil for their former victims under threat of death or, if that is not possible, made examples of to dissuade future pirates. Pirates who dabbled in slavery won't even be taken prisoner; Sjan-dehk would simply fly the red flag of no quarter and slaughter any and all he came across.
Background
The waters of the lowest delta stems from the tallest mountains
Current Occupation: The 4th Lesser Marquis of Jafi; captain of the Sada Kurau
Past Occupation: N/A
Relatives
- Father: Wasun Im-shan, Marquis of Jafi
- Mother: Ohn Sah of Apsha, Lady of Jafi
- 1st Older Brother: Wasun Sai-jom, Lesser Marquis of Jafi
- 2nd Older Brother: Wasun Hara-tahn, 2nd Lesser Marquis of Jafi
- 3rd Older Brother: Wasun Shim-sen, 3rd Lesser Marquis of Jafi
- 1st Younger Sister: Wasun Shi of Jafi
- 2nd Younger Sister: Wasun Idah of Jafi
Skills
- Sailing - rigging, setting sails, etc, etc
- Carpentry - mostly in the realm of repairs
- Navigation - by day and by night
- Naval gunnery - translates well to land gunnery
- Swordsmanship - specifically straight sabres
- Marksmanship - both recurve bow and firelocks
History summary
All beneath the sky and upon the waves have their place, such is the way of Great Harmony
Every member of the Wasun clan of Jafi has their place. Be it heir, advisor, diplomat, or keeper of the household, their role in the bureaucratic apparatus that kept the march running would have been planned out long before they even quickened in the womb. A masterstroke of long-term planning, if Im-shan dared say so himself. Granted, it was down to pure luck that none of his children had any qualms of their future roles at court and all of them developed qualities beneficial to said roles. It was either that or a testament to the skills of his court tutors.
Sjan-dehk's conception, unexpected as it was, thus proved to be a conundrum. Small as Jafi's court was at the time, there simply weren't any duties left for this fourth son to perform. Of course, there always were lesser positions to fill. Largely managerial and administrative roles that kept the march running on the day-to-day, but Im-shan had no shortage of promising common officials to promote, and who would be very upset should Sjan-dehk be simply dropped into an office they saw as rightly theirs. Putting his own children in positions of his inner court was one thing. Doing the same in the greater court would be asking for an uprising.
With his wife's counsel, Im-shan decided that Sjan-dehk would find his future in the navy. Responsible for the most part of the defense of Viserjanta's western frontiers, Jafi boasted a considerable fleet that could rival the Royal Armada by raw numbers and which was twice as active. An excellent stage for any minor noble with slim chances of peerage to build a name and reputation for himself. If he did well enough, Sjan-dehk might even make admiral by the time Sai-jom became marquis. Even if he were to prove to be a middling sailor, just having a member of the ruling family serving in the navy would be quite the morale booster.
From almost as soon as he could walk, Sjan-dehk was thrust onto the deck of a warship. As a cabin boy, naturally; the lowest post anyone hoping to carve out a naval career could ask for. If his son was to be a sailor under arms, then Im-shan was determined to make him one through and through. There would be no illusions of birthright, no privileges granted over station. Whatever respect and rank Sjan-dehk received would have to be earned the same way as any other sailor - through hard graft, tough work, and time.
For his part, Sjan-dehk took to naval life like a fish to water. Life aboard a rolling deck suited him handsomely. Whether it was mending sails, scrubbing decks, or bringing powder to guns in the heat of battle, he carried out his duties to satisfaction and without complaint. By the tender age of twelve, he was already intimately familiar with the inner workings of a ship from bow to stern and top to keel. Two years later, he earned the sabre of an officer-in-training. One who was rearing to be unleashed on the high seas and upon the Commonwealth's enemies.
That chance came four years later, when dissatisfied nobles launched a rebellion aiming for an imperial restoration. Neutral Jafi attempted to stay out of the conflict, but eventually was forced to choose a side. Throwing its support behind crown and council, Sjan-dehk and the rest of the fleet was sent to campaign against the rebels. Months of intense combat tempered Sjan-dehk into a hardened veteran, but it was only when his initiative and daring proved decisive in the capture of an enemy ship was he promoted to captain. Taking the prize as his command, he renamed it the Sada Kurau and brought it into combat against her former allies.
The war dragged on for five long years. Sjan-dehk proved himself as a capable commander possessing great tactical acumen. As ship after ship fell against him, he used whatever prize money and confiscated loot to re-fit and rearm the Sada Kurau until it was the ship it is today. When the rebels were finally contained on a singular island, Sjan-dehk was sent against the various pirates and slavers who had taken advantage of the turmoil to raid sea lanes and settlements alike. The Sada Kurau soon earned a dubious reputation as a fearsome pirate hunter, but also capable of terrifying savagery against her enemies. Sjan-dehk cared little about such rumours. In fact, he encouraged them; it made his work all the easier if the mere presence of his ship made would-be pirates reconsider their decisions.
With the conclusive end of the war rose a Commonwealth more united than ever. Those who dreamed of a restoration had either been killed or captured in the fighting, or driven in the exile in the immediate aftermath. Crown and court never had more influence in their constituent polities. It was the perfect time to look to other matters. Trade was a top priority, even if only to refill coffers depleted by war.
Eromora was the furthest region of the world known to Viserjantan mariners. In the past, trade there had been limited to the odd merchant willing to risk coin and life to make the long journey. Well, that would soo change. The Commonwealth now sought to make a more permanent arrangement. To facilitate that, they built a massive treasure ship. Only one - the nobility who ultimately had to fund the thing weren't quite as confident about the task at hand as the crown and council.
As for Sjan-dehk, it was hardly his choice to join the Eromoran expedition. He'd much rather continue securing Jafi's waters than follow maps that were at least a decade old to some foreign land. Unfortunately, his mother had persuaded his father to persuade crown and council to have the Sada Kurau attached as an escort. Risky as the mission was, it was no secret that its success would make any man who took part very influential and very rich. Sjan-dehk was a good sailor, a respected captain, and skilled fighter, but he would need a little more than that to truly stand beside his brother as admiral in future.
That was how Sjan-dehk found himself and Sada Kurau bound for Eromora. Whatever personal feelings he had for the mission, he hadn't failed a task given to him before. He surely wasn't about to start.
It is a starless night. Pale moonlight filters through heavy, purple clouds. A sure sign of rain, you think. Hopefully your business concludes before the deluge comes. You find the docks quiet save for the distant clamour of rowdy merry-making wafting from a ship a few rows down. Coincidentally, it is the ship you seek. Her sleek hull and tangle of ropes creaks as she bobs in the water, and her lateen sails are neatly furled. Lilting music of pipes and strings, accompanied by slurred songs emanate from its deck. The flickering orange glow of lamps hanging from its yards and masts cast shadows dancing across the woodwork.
"Ah, looking for me, yes?"
The heavily accented voice from behind catches you by surprise. You flinch and turn, papers clutched close to your chest lest they fly away in the landward breeze. Your eyes land on a grinning man. His over-patched clothes have clearly seen better days, and his burgeoning beard at least one or two overdue for a shave. A small cask is tucked beneath his arm and you can hear its contents sloshing from where you stand.
You nod and tell him that yes, you have been looking for him.
"Good timing, no?" He says with a chuckle and strides towards you. "Come, come." Before you can protest, he places a hand on your back and gently ushers you up the gangway onto the deck of his ship. Though you protest and say that you cannot afford time to join in their revelries, one of his crew pulls you around a small cookfire. Another takes the cask from the man. The dangers of an open fire on a wooden ship doesn't escape you, but all the same you are offered a seat on an overturned crate. You say no. The crew look on expectantly. Sjan-dehk - the man you sought - says yes. You sit. A bowl of some strange stew it thrust onto the lap.
"Always best to talk and eat, no?" Sjan-dehk says and those of his crew who understand your tongue nod in assent. They return to their own business. Laughs and music fill the deck. The drawl of strings now take center-stage. "You have questions," the captain says and sits across from you. He opens his arms with a disarming smile. "Ask away."
You suggest somewhere more private. He shakes his head. "No, no. No secrets from my crew," he says. "Anyway, they already know my answers."
You nod and sigh. Better to just get this over and done with. You balance the bowl on one knee while sifting through your papers.
Did you grow up nurtured or neglected?
"Nurtured, of course," Sjan-dehk replies quickly enough to make you wonder. His next words confirm to you that he has either misunderstood the question or is pulling your leg. "The sea is an excellent mother, no?"
You clarify yourself. You want to know about his family. The grin he flashes tells you that he knew from the start. "Nurtured and neglected both," he says with neither bitterness nor fondness. "They put me on a ship as early as I can remember. When I went ashore, we spent time together. Mother fussed over me as mothers do, but never stopped me from going back to my ship. Father never spoke business with me. Never showed me favour either. Taught me to earn whatever I received. My brothers and sisters and I joked and played and rarely fought."
He pauses. "So yes, that is nurture, no? And growing up at sea, that is neglect, yes?"
You nod and jot down his answer as quickly as you can. You take a sip of the stew with the wooden spoon the crew provided. It is surprisingly hearty and tasty despite its looks. The meat melts in your mouth with just the right amount of salt and other spices you cannot identify.
When you were upset, where was your sanctuary?
He looks at you as if you asked a question so silly it stuns him. "Here, of course," he says matter-of-factly, as if it were so obvious. You want to tell him that it is not, but you hold your tongue. You tell him that you want to know about his past, not the present. "Still here," he says, then adds slowly, "I grew up on a ship."
You bite on your lip. He is mocking you, but not undeservedly. He did just tell you as much. You clarify further. What about when he was ashore?
He shrugs. "Anywhere I could see the open sea. Calms me."
What were you like in your teenage years?
Even as you ask the question, you can see Sjan-dehk shake his head and look down between his legs. You think he even looks a little sheepish. "A little shit," he says with a mirthless chuckle. "Everyone is an idiot at that age, yes? I think I was more of an idiot than most. Too eager. Too overconfident. Took too many unnecessary risks, gave too many people headaches. Good thing I grew out of it, no?"
You don't know for sure, but you nod in agreement anyway.
How close are you to your parents?
"As close as I am allowed," he says. You arch a brow at him. That's quite the strange answer and immediately you start to ask if there was some tradition or custom that kept parents at arm's length. He holds up a hand to stop you. "No, no, like I said, I spent most of my time on a ship, yes? Hard to get close with the time I spend ashore. A few days at a time at most, but it is my choice. I prefer the sea. Still happy that I am not...How do you say? Estranged? From my family. They understand. They chose this for me, they have to."
Do you have any trauma that haunts you?
The music grows in volume behind you. Now a veritable chorus has erupted around the two of you. You can see Sjan-dehk mouthing the words beneath his breath as you ask your question. He shrugs. "Cannot think of one that sticks out, sorry," he replies a little too quickly for your liking. He is hiding something, you assume with some degree of confidence. You decide to carefully press him for something more concrete. Surely there has to be something?
He shrugs again. "I fought many battles. Saw many things. After a while you stop noticing these things, yes?"
At that, you decide to drop the matter and move on.
What advice would you give your younger self?
"Oh, that is easy," he replies with a smirk. "To not wish to grow up to be this tall. Troublesome beneath decks."
Were you an obedient child or defiant?
His answer is so quick and firm that it almost throws you off your seat. "Obedient," he says, then pauses. With a twinkle in his eye, he adds, "As defiant as I could. Children will be children, no? Punishments on a ship are harsh and teaches discipline very quickly, but it is everyone's nature to be mischievous sometimes, yes? I did what I was told, but when I was idle...Well, I got into trouble more than once."
What about when he was ashore, you ask. He grins. "A little more defiant."
What is your biggest regret?
For but a moment, the mirth disappears from his face and he exhales through his nose as he leans back. "Whenever we are too slow," he says and avoids your gave. The crew seem to sense their captain's turn of mood and their merriment drops to a quiet buzzing murmur. "Sada Kurau is a fast ship, but sometimes not fast enough. You seen before what pirates and slaves do to people? What they leave behind? You will want to be quick enough to catch them if you have."
That doesn't quite answer your question, but you know you have to approach this tactfully. You ask if there is any such incident that stuck with him.
"Years ago," he replies. "Island called for help. Usually it would be too late to do anything. By the time we get the news and set sail it would be already days after the attack, you know? This time we go there, we see the slave ship getting ready to leave. We chased them but they found winds in their favour and against us. Got away. Never saw that ship again. That island likely never saw the people they lost again, too."
At last, he realises the depressed mood of the crew around him. He jumps to his feet and shouts something in their native tongue, one hand raised in a fist and the other thumping his chest. You don't know what he said, but clearly it did something to the crew as they cheer. Mugs of some sort of booze is portioned and handed out. Someone places one at your feet. Sjan-dehk sits back down and looks at you, the grin back on his face. "That is why we train hard and fight hard. Never let it happen again, yes?"
Have you ever been in love?
You have been dreading this section ever since he teased you a few questions ago. You already have the feeling that you'll get nothing truthful from the man with regards to this subject. Perhaps it would be best to just go through them as quickly. You ask the first question and already you can see Sjan-dehk's grin widen.
"Of course I have," Sjan-dehk replies and gestures to the sea. Why did you see that coming? "Fell in love the moment I felt her salty kiss and rollicking movements."
You sigh and tell him that's not what you meant. He chuckles and nods. "I know, I know." He sounds almost apologetic but you have doubts that he means it. "No, I have not. Never saw a lady that caught my eye, and never had time for that."
What is most important in a partner to you? Describe your dream partner.
He furrows his brow and scratches his jaw. It surprises you that he is even seriously considering his answer, but you decide not to jinx it by saying anything. "Never thought about it," he admits. "Never had an interest enough, but to answer you, I would like someone who does not mind my absence and my ways. If they would sail with me, even better."
The spark of mischief returns to his eyes as he looks at you. "If you meet anyone like that, you tell me, yes?"
How do you display affection? What is your love language?
"Your people do not speak to show affection?" He asks curiously and face earnest. You almost start to explain that you are not speaking literally when he's unable to contain his laughter any further. Your cheeks heat up. You can't tell if it's out of anger or embarrassment. You don't really care. Sjan-dehk raises both hands in front of him. "Sorry, sorry. Could not resist."
You fold your arms and tell him that this would be finished quicker if he would stop joking. "Ah, but we are having a good time, no? Why would I want to finish things so quickly?" He says. "To answer you, I do not know yet. When I find out, I will find you and tell you, yes?"
Have you had your first kiss? What was it like?
You start dreading his response before you even finish the question. As expected, he starts to gesture to the sea but stops when you shoot him a withering glare. He drops his arm. "No, no I have not."
Do you believe in love at first sight? Why or why not?
"Of course I do, I told you-" he begins, but stops himself short. You didn't even need to say anything. Perhaps he's not that mischievous after all. That, or even his mischief has its limits. He leans forward. "I do," he replies softly. The surprise from both his answer and the way he says it almost, again, knocks you off your seat. You ask him to clarify. After everything he has told you, you explain, you have the impression that he cares little for anything related to romance.
"You are right," he confirms with a nod. "But love at first sight, that is a good fantasy, no? Something nice to think about when times are difficult. You imagine, you think, you let your mind drift and suddenly everything feels a little lighter. Please, do not misunderstand. It is not something easily found. Not something I expect to happen. Just a nice fantasy to distract the mind every now and then."
You nod slowly. You think you understand. He believes the fantasy but understands it's not reality.
What does marriage mean to you?
He taps a finger on his chin. "Like dropping anchor from a ship?" He asks with faux-innocence. Now that, that almost makes you laugh but you catch yourself just in time. You collect yourself and tell him that it's not always that bad a prospect. He nods and agrees. "Yes, yes, and we all hope for that for ourselves, but a man like me? Too restrictive. I do not think I would make a good husband, yes? Too much time away."
Are you currently crushing on anyone?
"I think you know the answer by now, no?"
Do you ever consider having children in the future?
He nods and that again catches you off-guard. You hesitantly ask if there's a joke that you're not getting, or some euphemism that's unique to his language. "No, no," he says with a wave of his hand. He grins. "You are learning."
Yes, yes you are. You're unsure if that's a good or bad thing. You repeat your question, hoping to get a bit more elaboration out of him. You are not disappointed. "One day, surely, but that day is very far away. Many things to take care of before then, many things I still want to do and have to achieve, you know? A tree without roots collapses in a stiff wind. A tree that burrows deep before growing tall stands forever."
That last part sounds quite scholarly to your ears. You ask where it comes from. "Records of the Venerable Prince of Sukaya," he replies with a dash of eagerness to his voice. "Very interesting book. A lot of insights from Viserjanta's early days."
You jot that down. You ask what he meant by things to do and achieve. Sjan-dehk waves his hand dismissively. "Oh, just places to see, rank to achieve, and adventures to be had."
The answer is frustratingly vague, but you feel that is all you will get from him and so you move on.
Describe your ideal Sunday morning
"Calm waters and following winds," he replies with a soft smile gracing his lips. His eyes stare into the dancing flames of the cookfire. "Keeps Sada Kurau moving but not so much that we struggle to keep her sails intact. Gentle enough to give us time to relax but not so much it strands us."
You nod. That was what you expected to hear from him. Still, he continues. "Always a good day when I can just read my books or play my flute without worries, you know? Gives my crew time to unwind. Too much struggle and we all go crazy. Even a sword cannot go from fight to fight without sharpening. Then at night, after we have unwound, we will celebrate like we are now to give thanks for a good day and prepare ourselves for the next."
You ask if that adage about the sword comes from one of his books again. He nods and grins. "I tell you, that Records book is full of nice little sayings like that. Perhaps someday you can ready a translated copy. I would recommend it."
What kind of person do you aspire to be?
"A good captain to my men, a good admiral for my brothers," he replies with a shrug. You decide to clarify a little more. You say that you are not asking about his professional life, but the personal. "Ah," he says, but then shrugs again. "Not sure, really. I think just a good man? Someone who does right by those who deserve it, evil by those who deserve it. Someone just and fair and gives everyone a chance."
You point out that 'evil' contradicts 'good'. He laughs. "Well, maybe not a good man. A fair man?"
You grin a little and nod. You tell him that yes, that would fit a little better.
What bad habits do you have?
"Oh, come now," he says. He sounds almost condescending, but you decide to let it slide until he explains himself. "Just as how the songbird praises not its own voice, you should be asking my crew this question." He leans back and opens his arms. "If you ask me, I would say I have none, no?"
You think about it for a moment and realise you have no real answer to that. Either that, or the revelry is beginning to get to your head. Flickering orange glows mixed with lilting music makes for quite the hypnotic combination.
If you could go back in time and change anything in your past, what would it be?
"Drown captain Javisi when I had the chance." Sjan-dehk's answer is quick and so full of malice you worry for a moment. You ask him to elaborate, but it's clear you didn't have to. He was going to anyway. "Saved his life when I was not yet captain. Went our separate ways when we took command of our ships. We fought on opposite sides of the war." He says and you can see his hands start to clench into fists. For a moment you wonder if you should tell him to just drop the matter, but he carries on before you have a chance to even open your mouth.
"That is not what upsets me, you know? War is war. We fight for our sides, but that bastard turned pirate when we pushed the rebels back to Udama. Vicious one. Killed many, many people. Caught him eventually. Still, could have prevented all that if I just left him to drown." He draws in a deep breath when he finishes. He shakes his head, then looks at you sheepishly. "Sorry, it still angers me when I think about it."
You tell him that it's fine. You want him to be honest, after all.
What is your greatest fear?
"To have the wind taken from my sails," he says. You suppose you should have seen that one coming.
What are your pet peeves?
"Where do I begin?" He says and slaps his knee as he leans back. "People who use their rank to get their way, firstly. Dislike it in officers, dislike it even more in nobles." He scratches his head and furrows his brow for a moment. "An untidy ship. Seen many of those. Good thing my crew knows how to keep Sada Kurau neat. You know the sound of scraping metal? That one drives me crazy. Wet footwraps, now that one I have experienced many times. Never got used to it. Unpleasant every time."
He stops himself and looks at you. "Is that enough?" You nod.
When you are in a sour mood, do you like to be alone or with others?
"A bit of both is healthy," Sjan-dehk replies almost sagely. "Alone to gather your thoughts. Calm down. Get clear sight. Then with people to forget and recover."
Are you more likely to fight with your fists or your tongue?
"A good captain uses both," he says with a grin. "My crew is like family, you know? Which family would want to risk each other unnecessarily? If we can take a ship peacefully, all the better for everyone involved, yes? They get to live, we get to win." You point out that the enemy would lose a lot more in such a deal. Sjan-dehk shakes his head. "No, no. Not unless they see death as a better outcome. We give them chance to surrender. If they take it, good. If not, we destroy them."
The ease with which he said such words rattles you slightly. Still, you suppose it's part of his nature as a warship captain. You decide that your time here is done, but when you stand to leave you feel droplets splash upon your flesh. You look up. The crew looks up. Sjan-dehk looks up. A deluge comes down. The cookfire is quickly extinguished. You try to keep your papers dry by hugging them close. The crew doesn't look concerned as they shuffle below decks.
"Bad luck, no?" Sjan-dehk asks nonchalantly as he stands up. "You should stay and wait out the rain. We continue things below decks. You can join us."
You wonder if you should take up the deal. A peal of thunder roars overhead. Lightning flashes in the distance. You nod yes.
"Ah, looking for me, yes?"
The heavily accented voice from behind catches you by surprise. You flinch and turn, papers clutched close to your chest lest they fly away in the landward breeze. Your eyes land on a grinning man. His over-patched clothes have clearly seen better days, and his burgeoning beard at least one or two overdue for a shave. A small cask is tucked beneath his arm and you can hear its contents sloshing from where you stand.
You nod and tell him that yes, you have been looking for him.
"Good timing, no?" He says with a chuckle and strides towards you. "Come, come." Before you can protest, he places a hand on your back and gently ushers you up the gangway onto the deck of his ship. Though you protest and say that you cannot afford time to join in their revelries, one of his crew pulls you around a small cookfire. Another takes the cask from the man. The dangers of an open fire on a wooden ship doesn't escape you, but all the same you are offered a seat on an overturned crate. You say no. The crew look on expectantly. Sjan-dehk - the man you sought - says yes. You sit. A bowl of some strange stew it thrust onto the lap.
"Always best to talk and eat, no?" Sjan-dehk says and those of his crew who understand your tongue nod in assent. They return to their own business. Laughs and music fill the deck. The drawl of strings now take center-stage. "You have questions," the captain says and sits across from you. He opens his arms with a disarming smile. "Ask away."
You suggest somewhere more private. He shakes his head. "No, no. No secrets from my crew," he says. "Anyway, they already know my answers."
You nod and sigh. Better to just get this over and done with. You balance the bowl on one knee while sifting through your papers.
History
Did you grow up nurtured or neglected?
"Nurtured, of course," Sjan-dehk replies quickly enough to make you wonder. His next words confirm to you that he has either misunderstood the question or is pulling your leg. "The sea is an excellent mother, no?"
You clarify yourself. You want to know about his family. The grin he flashes tells you that he knew from the start. "Nurtured and neglected both," he says with neither bitterness nor fondness. "They put me on a ship as early as I can remember. When I went ashore, we spent time together. Mother fussed over me as mothers do, but never stopped me from going back to my ship. Father never spoke business with me. Never showed me favour either. Taught me to earn whatever I received. My brothers and sisters and I joked and played and rarely fought."
He pauses. "So yes, that is nurture, no? And growing up at sea, that is neglect, yes?"
You nod and jot down his answer as quickly as you can. You take a sip of the stew with the wooden spoon the crew provided. It is surprisingly hearty and tasty despite its looks. The meat melts in your mouth with just the right amount of salt and other spices you cannot identify.
When you were upset, where was your sanctuary?
He looks at you as if you asked a question so silly it stuns him. "Here, of course," he says matter-of-factly, as if it were so obvious. You want to tell him that it is not, but you hold your tongue. You tell him that you want to know about his past, not the present. "Still here," he says, then adds slowly, "I grew up on a ship."
You bite on your lip. He is mocking you, but not undeservedly. He did just tell you as much. You clarify further. What about when he was ashore?
He shrugs. "Anywhere I could see the open sea. Calms me."
What were you like in your teenage years?
Even as you ask the question, you can see Sjan-dehk shake his head and look down between his legs. You think he even looks a little sheepish. "A little shit," he says with a mirthless chuckle. "Everyone is an idiot at that age, yes? I think I was more of an idiot than most. Too eager. Too overconfident. Took too many unnecessary risks, gave too many people headaches. Good thing I grew out of it, no?"
You don't know for sure, but you nod in agreement anyway.
How close are you to your parents?
"As close as I am allowed," he says. You arch a brow at him. That's quite the strange answer and immediately you start to ask if there was some tradition or custom that kept parents at arm's length. He holds up a hand to stop you. "No, no, like I said, I spent most of my time on a ship, yes? Hard to get close with the time I spend ashore. A few days at a time at most, but it is my choice. I prefer the sea. Still happy that I am not...How do you say? Estranged? From my family. They understand. They chose this for me, they have to."
Do you have any trauma that haunts you?
The music grows in volume behind you. Now a veritable chorus has erupted around the two of you. You can see Sjan-dehk mouthing the words beneath his breath as you ask your question. He shrugs. "Cannot think of one that sticks out, sorry," he replies a little too quickly for your liking. He is hiding something, you assume with some degree of confidence. You decide to carefully press him for something more concrete. Surely there has to be something?
He shrugs again. "I fought many battles. Saw many things. After a while you stop noticing these things, yes?"
At that, you decide to drop the matter and move on.
What advice would you give your younger self?
"Oh, that is easy," he replies with a smirk. "To not wish to grow up to be this tall. Troublesome beneath decks."
Were you an obedient child or defiant?
His answer is so quick and firm that it almost throws you off your seat. "Obedient," he says, then pauses. With a twinkle in his eye, he adds, "As defiant as I could. Children will be children, no? Punishments on a ship are harsh and teaches discipline very quickly, but it is everyone's nature to be mischievous sometimes, yes? I did what I was told, but when I was idle...Well, I got into trouble more than once."
What about when he was ashore, you ask. He grins. "A little more defiant."
What is your biggest regret?
For but a moment, the mirth disappears from his face and he exhales through his nose as he leans back. "Whenever we are too slow," he says and avoids your gave. The crew seem to sense their captain's turn of mood and their merriment drops to a quiet buzzing murmur. "Sada Kurau is a fast ship, but sometimes not fast enough. You seen before what pirates and slaves do to people? What they leave behind? You will want to be quick enough to catch them if you have."
That doesn't quite answer your question, but you know you have to approach this tactfully. You ask if there is any such incident that stuck with him.
"Years ago," he replies. "Island called for help. Usually it would be too late to do anything. By the time we get the news and set sail it would be already days after the attack, you know? This time we go there, we see the slave ship getting ready to leave. We chased them but they found winds in their favour and against us. Got away. Never saw that ship again. That island likely never saw the people they lost again, too."
At last, he realises the depressed mood of the crew around him. He jumps to his feet and shouts something in their native tongue, one hand raised in a fist and the other thumping his chest. You don't know what he said, but clearly it did something to the crew as they cheer. Mugs of some sort of booze is portioned and handed out. Someone places one at your feet. Sjan-dehk sits back down and looks at you, the grin back on his face. "That is why we train hard and fight hard. Never let it happen again, yes?"
Romance
Have you ever been in love?
You have been dreading this section ever since he teased you a few questions ago. You already have the feeling that you'll get nothing truthful from the man with regards to this subject. Perhaps it would be best to just go through them as quickly. You ask the first question and already you can see Sjan-dehk's grin widen.
"Of course I have," Sjan-dehk replies and gestures to the sea. Why did you see that coming? "Fell in love the moment I felt her salty kiss and rollicking movements."
You sigh and tell him that's not what you meant. He chuckles and nods. "I know, I know." He sounds almost apologetic but you have doubts that he means it. "No, I have not. Never saw a lady that caught my eye, and never had time for that."
What is most important in a partner to you? Describe your dream partner.
He furrows his brow and scratches his jaw. It surprises you that he is even seriously considering his answer, but you decide not to jinx it by saying anything. "Never thought about it," he admits. "Never had an interest enough, but to answer you, I would like someone who does not mind my absence and my ways. If they would sail with me, even better."
The spark of mischief returns to his eyes as he looks at you. "If you meet anyone like that, you tell me, yes?"
How do you display affection? What is your love language?
"Your people do not speak to show affection?" He asks curiously and face earnest. You almost start to explain that you are not speaking literally when he's unable to contain his laughter any further. Your cheeks heat up. You can't tell if it's out of anger or embarrassment. You don't really care. Sjan-dehk raises both hands in front of him. "Sorry, sorry. Could not resist."
You fold your arms and tell him that this would be finished quicker if he would stop joking. "Ah, but we are having a good time, no? Why would I want to finish things so quickly?" He says. "To answer you, I do not know yet. When I find out, I will find you and tell you, yes?"
Have you had your first kiss? What was it like?
You start dreading his response before you even finish the question. As expected, he starts to gesture to the sea but stops when you shoot him a withering glare. He drops his arm. "No, no I have not."
Do you believe in love at first sight? Why or why not?
"Of course I do, I told you-" he begins, but stops himself short. You didn't even need to say anything. Perhaps he's not that mischievous after all. That, or even his mischief has its limits. He leans forward. "I do," he replies softly. The surprise from both his answer and the way he says it almost, again, knocks you off your seat. You ask him to clarify. After everything he has told you, you explain, you have the impression that he cares little for anything related to romance.
"You are right," he confirms with a nod. "But love at first sight, that is a good fantasy, no? Something nice to think about when times are difficult. You imagine, you think, you let your mind drift and suddenly everything feels a little lighter. Please, do not misunderstand. It is not something easily found. Not something I expect to happen. Just a nice fantasy to distract the mind every now and then."
You nod slowly. You think you understand. He believes the fantasy but understands it's not reality.
What does marriage mean to you?
He taps a finger on his chin. "Like dropping anchor from a ship?" He asks with faux-innocence. Now that, that almost makes you laugh but you catch yourself just in time. You collect yourself and tell him that it's not always that bad a prospect. He nods and agrees. "Yes, yes, and we all hope for that for ourselves, but a man like me? Too restrictive. I do not think I would make a good husband, yes? Too much time away."
Are you currently crushing on anyone?
"I think you know the answer by now, no?"
Do you ever consider having children in the future?
He nods and that again catches you off-guard. You hesitantly ask if there's a joke that you're not getting, or some euphemism that's unique to his language. "No, no," he says with a wave of his hand. He grins. "You are learning."
Yes, yes you are. You're unsure if that's a good or bad thing. You repeat your question, hoping to get a bit more elaboration out of him. You are not disappointed. "One day, surely, but that day is very far away. Many things to take care of before then, many things I still want to do and have to achieve, you know? A tree without roots collapses in a stiff wind. A tree that burrows deep before growing tall stands forever."
That last part sounds quite scholarly to your ears. You ask where it comes from. "Records of the Venerable Prince of Sukaya," he replies with a dash of eagerness to his voice. "Very interesting book. A lot of insights from Viserjanta's early days."
You jot that down. You ask what he meant by things to do and achieve. Sjan-dehk waves his hand dismissively. "Oh, just places to see, rank to achieve, and adventures to be had."
The answer is frustratingly vague, but you feel that is all you will get from him and so you move on.
Personality
Describe your ideal Sunday morning
"Calm waters and following winds," he replies with a soft smile gracing his lips. His eyes stare into the dancing flames of the cookfire. "Keeps Sada Kurau moving but not so much that we struggle to keep her sails intact. Gentle enough to give us time to relax but not so much it strands us."
You nod. That was what you expected to hear from him. Still, he continues. "Always a good day when I can just read my books or play my flute without worries, you know? Gives my crew time to unwind. Too much struggle and we all go crazy. Even a sword cannot go from fight to fight without sharpening. Then at night, after we have unwound, we will celebrate like we are now to give thanks for a good day and prepare ourselves for the next."
You ask if that adage about the sword comes from one of his books again. He nods and grins. "I tell you, that Records book is full of nice little sayings like that. Perhaps someday you can ready a translated copy. I would recommend it."
What kind of person do you aspire to be?
"A good captain to my men, a good admiral for my brothers," he replies with a shrug. You decide to clarify a little more. You say that you are not asking about his professional life, but the personal. "Ah," he says, but then shrugs again. "Not sure, really. I think just a good man? Someone who does right by those who deserve it, evil by those who deserve it. Someone just and fair and gives everyone a chance."
You point out that 'evil' contradicts 'good'. He laughs. "Well, maybe not a good man. A fair man?"
You grin a little and nod. You tell him that yes, that would fit a little better.
What bad habits do you have?
"Oh, come now," he says. He sounds almost condescending, but you decide to let it slide until he explains himself. "Just as how the songbird praises not its own voice, you should be asking my crew this question." He leans back and opens his arms. "If you ask me, I would say I have none, no?"
You think about it for a moment and realise you have no real answer to that. Either that, or the revelry is beginning to get to your head. Flickering orange glows mixed with lilting music makes for quite the hypnotic combination.
If you could go back in time and change anything in your past, what would it be?
"Drown captain Javisi when I had the chance." Sjan-dehk's answer is quick and so full of malice you worry for a moment. You ask him to elaborate, but it's clear you didn't have to. He was going to anyway. "Saved his life when I was not yet captain. Went our separate ways when we took command of our ships. We fought on opposite sides of the war." He says and you can see his hands start to clench into fists. For a moment you wonder if you should tell him to just drop the matter, but he carries on before you have a chance to even open your mouth.
"That is not what upsets me, you know? War is war. We fight for our sides, but that bastard turned pirate when we pushed the rebels back to Udama. Vicious one. Killed many, many people. Caught him eventually. Still, could have prevented all that if I just left him to drown." He draws in a deep breath when he finishes. He shakes his head, then looks at you sheepishly. "Sorry, it still angers me when I think about it."
You tell him that it's fine. You want him to be honest, after all.
What is your greatest fear?
"To have the wind taken from my sails," he says. You suppose you should have seen that one coming.
What are your pet peeves?
"Where do I begin?" He says and slaps his knee as he leans back. "People who use their rank to get their way, firstly. Dislike it in officers, dislike it even more in nobles." He scratches his head and furrows his brow for a moment. "An untidy ship. Seen many of those. Good thing my crew knows how to keep Sada Kurau neat. You know the sound of scraping metal? That one drives me crazy. Wet footwraps, now that one I have experienced many times. Never got used to it. Unpleasant every time."
He stops himself and looks at you. "Is that enough?" You nod.
When you are in a sour mood, do you like to be alone or with others?
"A bit of both is healthy," Sjan-dehk replies almost sagely. "Alone to gather your thoughts. Calm down. Get clear sight. Then with people to forget and recover."
Are you more likely to fight with your fists or your tongue?
"A good captain uses both," he says with a grin. "My crew is like family, you know? Which family would want to risk each other unnecessarily? If we can take a ship peacefully, all the better for everyone involved, yes? They get to live, we get to win." You point out that the enemy would lose a lot more in such a deal. Sjan-dehk shakes his head. "No, no. Not unless they see death as a better outcome. We give them chance to surrender. If they take it, good. If not, we destroy them."
The ease with which he said such words rattles you slightly. Still, you suppose it's part of his nature as a warship captain. You decide that your time here is done, but when you stand to leave you feel droplets splash upon your flesh. You look up. The crew looks up. Sjan-dehk looks up. A deluge comes down. The cookfire is quickly extinguished. You try to keep your papers dry by hugging them close. The crew doesn't look concerned as they shuffle below decks.
"Bad luck, no?" Sjan-dehk asks nonchalantly as he stands up. "You should stay and wait out the rain. We continue things below decks. You can join us."
You wonder if you should take up the deal. A peal of thunder roars overhead. Lightning flashes in the distance. You nod yes.
Lava Alckon
Member
Seen
1 mo ago
Drake Edwards | 23 | Male
Appearance
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 200 lbs
Eye Color: Hazel
Hair Length/Texture: Long wavy hair
Hair Color: Dark Brown
Skin Color: White
Facial details: Smooth and well-rounded
Distinguishing features: Cleft chin, prominent jawline, thick eyebrows
Clothing Preferences: Fancy jackets and coats over relaxing fitting shirts, hempen pants with his favorite black leather shoes.
Psychology
Likes:
Books - “I particularly love a good mystery.”
Plays - “Show me anything, just don’t make it boring!”
Music - “A good wood-based sound is quite literally music to my ears.”
Cleaning -”Believe it or not, it's easier to keep things at my standards if I do it myself.”
Dislikes:
Being patronized - “I know what I’m doing, I promise.”
Being lied to - “It’s not that I’m mad, just betrayed you couldn’t trust me.”
Strong smells - “I just tend to get headaches a little easily if I’m too overwhelmed. Forgive me.”
Paperwork - “It tends to drag on far longer than it should and takes up my entire afternoon on occasion.”
Sexuality:
Heterosexual - "Sorry to all the other gentlemen in the yard, but I'm afraid that is simply not my purview."
Hobbies:
Enjoys nice meals at outdoor cafes - “There’s a certain air of peace about them that really sets my mind at ease.”
Reading books in the privacy of his room or study - “I do find myself enjoying those moments where I can truly be alone with my thoughts for a time.”
Horseback Riding - “My body is a temple and I intend to keep it active, mobile, and well kept for as long as I can.”
Practices calligraphy often - “My penmanship must be paramount if I’m going to be an author and a politician.”
Life Goals/Dreams:
“Truthfully, I do have many errant goals in life. To be an author for one, I’ve read enough to where I’ve started to take an interest in writing myself. Perhaps a coming of age detective has to solve the mystery of his parents murder? Ah but I’m getting away from myself.”
“My father wants the best for this country, as do I, so I intend to try and live a busy political life to make things admirable for our countrymen. My mother also wants the best for our family, so obviously that means marriage is on the table. I do hope it’s at least with someone who likes me rather than just being another accessory to manage on the side.”
“Overall, I’d say I’d like to do well for the country and family both I suppose. A loving wife, a few rugrats running about our halls, and most likely piles upon piles of legislation, ordinances, agreements, treaties, and all sorts of ‘fun’ things for me to sort through. But even as a politician I would still take care of family first. Time for family outings, dinners, and simply time spent together is a must for any future I hold.”
Personality Summary:
“I suppose it would be folly of me to talk about myself in the third person as if I am some end all be all gentleman, so I will let the respectable narrator take over.”
Well that was certainly interesting. Thank you, Drake. As you may see, Drake is a typical gentleman, wanting to please others and keep an appropriate image. He is cool, calm, collected, and tries to stay about emotional outbursts but he is far from perfect. Rumor has it that just the other week he - “Okay maybe don’t share everything, Sir Narrator.” - Okay fine.
He prefers discussion over arguments, and peace over violence. He is also ever eager to learn new things, no limitations! While his favorite topics are typically history and science, he does enjoy all sorts of trivia-based knowledge and has even found himself reading tabloids from time to time to keep up on social happenings. How scandalous! “I’m beginning to trust you less and less…”
Background
Current occupation:
“Currently, I would say my occupation is ‘Duke in training’. My father still very much holds the title but I am practically responsible for over a third of his work nowadays. Everyday the amount seems to grow…”
Any past occupations?:
“When I was little I was leader of the Sorian Childhood Equestrian Club for a week…I still think it was essentially chore duty with extra ribbons and fanfare but it was something.”
Relatives:
“My mother and father, Duke and Duchess Gideon Edwards and Victoria Edwards, respectively. As well as my lovely siblings. I have a brother in Kieran and two sisters in Ariella and Priscilla."
Skills:
Skilled Handwriting - “I must make sure my letters look good if I am to be taken seriously.”
Horse Riding - “Been riding since I was a young boy. It’s a rather engaging activity, and I’d love to show some of you more about it.”
Boxing - “Only recreationally, I practice with a trainer here and there but it’s not my favorite skill to hone.”
Multilingual - “In my time in the study I’ve taken up a few languages. Nothing quite of the mastery level but I definitely dabble.”
History Summary:
"In short, I am your standard gentleman with a focus on politics and literature. I am a learned individual who certainly isn't perfect, but does his best to perform admirably amongst the higher ups. Despite all that business talk, I do yearn for a passionate romance and a fulfilling life alongside someone else. So do please consider me this season when you're perusing your next set of suitors, ladies."
Questionnaire
Did you grow up nurtured or neglected?:
“Nurtured in some ways, neglected in others. A father’s job is truly a tough one so I understand…would’ve been nice if he attended at least one of my races growing up.”
When you were upset, where was your sanctuary?:
“My room. It is a man’s last line of defense against the unyielding world and the stimuli it so uncaringly provides.”
What were you like in your teenage years?:
“More or less the same as I am now. I know it’s a rather trivial answer. Perhaps I was more foolhardy than I care to admit but who wasn’t a little naive in their younger years?”
How close are you to your parents?:
“Moderately. I do try to see them regularly and father has to make sure I stay up to date on his political schemes and ideas. Hard to avoid family when they’re hopes and dreams ride on your back.”
Do you have any trauma that haunts you?:
“Nothing large and impactful. The closest thing I could surmise to be traumatic would be the countless times I’ve been yelled at for not living up to standard, but you get used to it.”
What advice would you give your younger self?:
“Do not let them dissuade you. You are doing well, but keep up your studies.”
Were you an obedient child or defiant?:
“Obedient. Lord knows I did everything I could to not get a thrashing or a chastising.”
What is your biggest regret?:
“Not living enough for myself growing up and not spending nearly as much time with Ari as I should’ve. I hope to change that here soon.”
Have you ever been in love? :
“Here and there, yes, but sadly I’ve been far too busy to capitalize on it.”
What is most important in a partner to you? Describe your dream partner.:
“Honesty, forgiveness, patience, and above all, communication. I am only truly able to see my errors if we talk about them, and I believe the same for whoever I may be with in the future.”
How do you display affection? What is your love language?:
“Solitary time together through meals, hobbies, or simply spending the day away as we talk. Physical presence is what my heart yearns for most.”
Have you had your first kiss? What was it like?:
“No. I am rather embarrassed to admit my novice level skills at romance but you see, I’ve been quite busy.”
Do you believe in love at first sight? Why or why not?:
“How can novelists write such detailed experiences if not for their own personal account? And how would we even know about such a concept if someone hadn’t already experienced it themself? I think that answers your question.”
What does marriage mean to you?:
“Commitment and a promise to someone that you both may create a future together and that your love truly is the deepest one that can be felt. At least that’s what I’d like to believe, but I know modern day society says otherwise.”
Are you currently crushing on anyone?:
“Yes. But I won’t embarrass her by being public about it. Don’t be nosey now!”
Do you ever consider having children in the future?:
“I would hope so, but this is a matter between me and my wife I would imagine.”
Describe your ideal Sunday morning:
“Hopefully the week’s work is finished and I can start the day off with some light food. Perhaps biscuits or some pancakes. Some time spent with a loved one to soon follow and then the rest of the day to do whatever I so please.”
What kind of person do you aspire to be?:
“Someone dependable, who is successful as a father, husband, man, and politician. I want to leave behind a legacy that is talked about for at least a few generations to come. It’s a rather loft goal, I’ll admit. But I intend to be among the best at what I do because that’s what I was raised to do.”
What bad habits do you have?:
“I can’t really turn away a delectable treat or sweet. Not to mention if I really get focused on my work it can be quite hard to get me away from it. I would have what most call a ‘one-track mind’. I simply like to refer to it as a razor sharp focus. What else…I would say that some see my lack of violence or agitation means I am a push-over but I digress.”
If you could go back in time and change anything in your past, what would it be?:
“I would take responsibility for the one time I blamed Ariella for the broken plate. Bit trivial I know but my cowardice that day will haunt me until the day I die.”
What is your greatest fear?:
“Becoming a shell of who I am, or perhaps being swept to the wayside and forgotten as time marches on. It is an inevitable fate, that last one, but I’ll do my damndest to fight it.”
What are your pet peeves?:
“Don’t. Chew. With your mouth. Open. Don’t interrupt me while I talk. Don’t step on my favorite shoes. Mind your manners to the help, and by gods hold your cutlery at least partially well! If I had to get those burned into my cerebral mindset so shall you!”
When you are in a sour mood, do you like to be alone or with others?
“My more selfish ego would say myself. But the more sensible side of me knows I would need a sweet or caring soul near me to better ease my poor mood.”
Are you more likely to fight with your fists or your tongue?:
“I would fight with my mouth if that is the term you wish to use. Sounds a little risque to me, but I suppose that’s the point of it. I prefer the spoken word over physical altercation, but I took boxing classes for a reason, you know.”
1x Like
✦ Alexander ✦ 28 ✦ Male ✦
Appearance
Height: 6 ft
Weight: 190 lbs
Eye Color: Dark brown
Hair Length/Texture: Short, straight
Hair Color: Dark brown
Skin Color: Fair
Facial details(freckles, moles, etc):
Quirks: Mostly keeps a neutral expression but he can't help but smile at someone or something he likes
Clothing Preferences: He dresses conservatively and is typically well-dressed even during mundane occasions
Psychology
Likes:
✦ His wife means the world to him ❤️
✦ Painting
✦ Meeting new people
✦ Playful flirting
✦ When someone speaks or does what they are the most passionate about
✦ Innocence
✦ Admittance of weakness
Dislikes:
✦ Arrogance
✦ Poor hygiene
✦ Loud noises
✦ Feeling restricted
Sexuality: Hetero
Hobbies: People watching, painting, playing instruments (especially pianos), trysts, taking long strolls with his wife, socializing with all manner of people, reading books,
Life Goals/Dreams: To provide for his wife and eventually cure her ailments. He also seems to improve his life circumstances with his work ethic
Personality Summary: Alexander is a man who seeks the finer things in life, whether it be through connecting to influential people or attending events with the most esteemed. This, however, doesn't stop Alexander from speaking to those less fortunate or the meek. He's a lifelong learner, always intrigued by the new and the unknown. This can come from nearly anyone, and he knows this.
His ability to stand in a circle of those above him comes easily. Alexander holds himself high, while his charm melts away any hint of him being too prideful, even if he is. Alexander can be many things to a person, a friend, a lover, or even a rival. Whichever, it will soon become obvious that Alexander seeks reciprocation. His desire to connect to those around him, to receive the treasure they hold within.
Above all else, he loves his wife, Lianna, a fact that few could ever doubt. Despite his pension for desiring to share a passion with others, she has his heart. Forever? That is a question that rarely but vividly crosses his mind. But for now, she is his anchor, his rock that keeps him on this plane. He feels he owes her the world, despite their circumstances. So until they severed from each other, Alexander will tear down mountains and part the sea to keep the smile he loves so much on Lianna's precious face.
Background
Current occupation: An artist and a forger
Skills: Patience, being a social chameleon, fencing, lying, sleight of hand, psychological analysis
History Summary: Alexander was born and raised in Caesonia though most can't pin down where. Sometimes he claims to have been born in the slums of Sorian, while other times he claims to be from a coastal village in Veirmont. Either way, Alexander wasn't born with the silver spoon of nobility. Instead, he simply had his charisma and curiosity. Two deadly weapons that allowed him to not only climb out of a world of poverty but to connect to those who had more power than he had himself. To connect to such allowed him the chance to borrow or in some cases, assume this power. Alexander performed this beautifully. He looked out for the little people he could empathize with while playing the larger game with those with influence.
It wasn't surprising when Lianna took notice of the man who appeared as if he could converse with the gods on a level playing field while being the humblest being they had ever met. She was a broker for a trading company and had placed herself in the gray of society. She made deals that teetered between legal and illegal, allowing the business to flourish. In a way she and Alexander were similar. He climbed up high, illuminating brighter as he did, while she climbed, cloaking her misdeeds in darkness. And just as bright light conjured dancing shadows, Lianna approached the bachelor, asking for a dance.
All it took was for the two to speak. To dance… In their words and their actions that night, they found love.
But finding love comes with its challenges. Only a few years after their wedding did both illness and ailment strike. Though Lianna was able to help Alexander, the latter was unable to return the favor. A fate that seemed worse than death befell Lianna, robbing her of both sight and the ability to walk on her own. Alexander could paint every king, queen, and city but still, he wouldn't make enough to support his beloved. All his connections became fickle with his dilemma with his only choice being that of his disabled wife's trade. The light willingly turned to shadows when it dimmed, and Alexander as always, excelled. He worked with not one company but many, becoming a master at his craft. To imitate. To use his own power to influence the goings of Eromora.
Still, he struggled. Attempting to remain who he was but failure gets even the best of people. Failure to keep the light shining. Failure to be the person people expected him to be. It was not because he gave up or was consumed by the dark. Alexander had completely welcomed it. He'd pull down the heavens to protect Lianna. He'd conspire with devils and demons. He'd ruin the lives of the good and just. Make prey of the weak. All for Lianna, for she was the only one who kept him grounded. Tethered.
And so promised her he would continue his climb by any means
Alexander eventually found himself working for a new company. One that valued his expertise. The Black Rose Trading Company.
Her
Lianna Deacon is 36 years old and was stricken with blindness and paralysis from the waist down during the prime of her years while married to the love of her life. Though Alexander would give her the world, Lianna outmatches him. She'd give up anything to see her husband happy and still considers him the great man she had met when they had joined hands in dance for the first time. Despite her physical disposition, she has cunning mind and does not seem to let her lack of bother her. There are some things she is happy with not seeing. Alexander's intimate relations with other women being one such thing. Though she's accepted it, she wishes she could be enough for him and is not immune to jealousy.
Despite being blind and paralyzed, Lianna has a strong fortitude with Alexander only having seen her cry twice. She is not as sociable as her husband but doesn't mind having an intellectual discussion on subjects such as politics, history, current events, and even magic. Without her sight, she has become quite exceptional at listening. Even a faint whisper may carry to her ears. That and the fact that others have the habit of not seeing her as a threat to their secrets. If only they knew what she was truly like. Who she truly was.
Questionnaire
History
Did you grow up nurtured or neglected?: “I'd say both. My parents were incredible but society… it was cold. Unforgiving.”
When you were upset, where was your sanctuary?: “The people. You can't find happiness alone.”
What were you like in your teenage years?: “Hahaha! I was… just beginning to see myself. Finding out my place in this vast world.”
How close are you to your parents?: “We don't speak as often but the love remains.”
Do you have any trauma that haunts you?: “...... Lianna.”
What advice would you give your younger self?: “Love and trust are not the same thing.”
Were you an obedient child or defiant?: I was good. Sure, I got into trouble on occasion but I did right by my parents, even if they didn't always agree with my decisions.”
What is your biggest regret?: Not being able to help Lianna. There's nothing else more that I wish I had.”
Romance
Have you ever been in love?: “Of course. Many of times. It's an incredible feeling.”
What is most important in a partner to you? Describe your dream partner.: I believe the gods have already blessed with her.”
How do you display affection? What is your love language?: “To listen to that what other love is… It's interesting. I very much enjoy it.”
Have you had your first kiss? What was it like?: “Yes and it was… maybe I shouldn't tell this tale. It was indeed incredible.”
Do you believe in love at first sight? Why or why not?: “I do because I've seen it.”
What does marriage mean to you?: “It means to put your all into someone who will put their all into you. It is the purest connection to another and something no one should take for granted.”
Are you currently crushing on anyone?: “There is someone but I want to keep it a secret.”
Do you ever consider having children in the future?: “Perhaps.”
Personality
Describe your ideal Sunday morning: “Taking a stroll through Sorian Park with Lianna by my side. For her to experience the world the best she can makes me happy.”
What kind of person do you aspire to be?: “Hmm…”
What bad habits do you have?: “I try to speak to everyone.”
If you could go back in time and change anything in your past, what would it be?: “I would save her.”
What is your greatest fear?: “I have nothing to fear.”
What are your pet peeves?: “I'm not fond of people not taking care of themselves. Physically and socially.”
When you are in a sour mood, do you like to be alone or with others?: “With others, of course.”
Are you more likely to fight with your fists or your tongue?: “Both.”
With the RP starting, we are closing applications to any new royals. If you have discussed making a royal with us before this post, but are still working on a character sheet you're good still. Any potential newcomers, however, are still allowed to apply, though only nobles and servant positions are open. That being said, secret royals are still a possibility. What I mean by this is your character is either a noble or a servant, but they don't know that they are actually royalty. Hopefully that makes sense.
Hi. In the mere snippets of interim I've got between work, domestic life, and being both a player and a Storyteller to several Vampire: the Masquerade games, I've been reading what I can of the story so far. Lovely stuff. I'm interested in joining, but only of course if newcomers are still welcome this late into the game.
My character's concept would go so far as to explain why he's so late to the revelries: before the events of the story he was court-martialed for murdering a fellow Varian captain in a duel, and has only now served the entirety of his six-year sentence. Once released, all he has to his name are the clothes on his back; the same sword, quenched in the heart-blood of several enemies; a heart of his own, now consumed with vengeance and loathing; and the names of the men who "did this to him" (which might or might not include player-characters, if others are interested). A fundamentally Byronic character filled, paradoxically, with self-hatred yet with unflappable pride; a dangerous, beastly intelligence, yet impudent recklessness.
I hope to hear from you soon as to whether such a presence would be incompatible with your vision, whether you have ample players already, whatever the case. Thank you.
coGM
<Snipped quote by Tae>
Hi. In the mere snippets of interim I've got between work, domestic life, and being both a player and a Storyteller to several Vampire: the Masquerade games, I've been reading what I can of the story so far. Lovely stuff. I'm interested in joining, but only of course if newcomers are still welcome this late into the game.
My character's concept would go so far as to explain why he's so late to the revelries: before the events of the story he was court-martialed for murdering a fellow Varian captain in a duel, and has only now served the entirety of his six-year sentence. Once released, all he has to his name are the clothes on his back; the same sword, quenched in the heart-blood of several enemies; a heart of his own, now consumed with vengeance and loathing; and the names of the men who "did this to him" (which might or might not include player-characters, if others are interested). A fundamentally Byronic character filled, paradoxically, with self-hatred yet with unflappable pride; a dangerous, beastly intelligence, yet impudent recklessness.
I hope to hear from you soon as to whether such a presence would be incompatible with your vision, whether you have ample players already, whatever the case. Thank you.
I like the idea. Give it a whirl and apply! Let me know if you have any questions.
@princess Sure. Ignoring the strait for convenience's sake, how long would it take to walk, say, from Kolonivka to Montauppe? What kind of a land scale are we looking at here? I was thinking of placing the prison where it would be cold, alienated, and inaccessible (ie. near Kolonivka); but not if it'll take me three months IC to hit the scene lol
Is there an established, canonical lore I should be reading up on and strictly adhering to on when I'm invited to the Discord, or are we free to worldbuild?
In the same vein as the previous question, when was the last time this setting was embroiled in total war, or any conflict large enough to upheave power structures, borders, etc.? Anything you can tell me about that conflict, such as numbers, factions, results, famous battles, etc.?
Here in the OOC tab, one GM post says this is a pre-industrial society, while another GM post declares this universe has developed steam ships, dirigibles, trains, etc. Which of these is accurate? If we were to look at firearms as a microcosm of the technological epoch, are people using flintlocks? Percussion caps? Matchlocks? Earlier, or even no firearms at all?
That's what I've got for now.
Is there an established, canonical lore I should be reading up on and strictly adhering to on when I'm invited to the Discord, or are we free to worldbuild?
In the same vein as the previous question, when was the last time this setting was embroiled in total war, or any conflict large enough to upheave power structures, borders, etc.? Anything you can tell me about that conflict, such as numbers, factions, results, famous battles, etc.?
Here in the OOC tab, one GM post says this is a pre-industrial society, while another GM post declares this universe has developed steam ships, dirigibles, trains, etc. Which of these is accurate? If we were to look at firearms as a microcosm of the technological epoch, are people using flintlocks? Percussion caps? Matchlocks? Earlier, or even no firearms at all?
That's what I've got for now.
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