Randomness

Sovereign's Will: A Fantasy Roleplaying Game. [CONCLUDED]

Solomon Sparrow

Location: Rascade, Kindeance

---

Solomon found himself sitting at the table alone. Cedar had left the venue. With his departure also meant Stritzel’s interest towards the table disappeared. The Delvings and Yorks were too busy fraternizing with Jazdia, Yvonne, and each other. Politicians were using the banquet as an opportunity to make deals and forge connections. The younger generations were following said politicians like stowaways attempting to steal the secrets of success from their forebears. Beyond the platitudes the king provided him at the beginning of the event, there didn’t seem much interest to interact with the elderly doctor. For the moment, that was fine. Solomon had no feelings about it one way or the other.

Solomon sat at the table with the mushroom dish he had seen Cedar partake of earlier in the evening. It was a delightful dish. Placing down his utensil, Solomon rested his hands under his chin, again. His eyes rifted across the room. The drama was not settling down, though tensions were still high between the factions. Solomon didn’t feel it necessary to involve himself directly in any of the confrontations. He did feel some empathy towards Cedar’s intentions, but beyond what he had offered already, it was best for the bear to feel the weight of his decisions. The consequences at Fanghorn were regrettable. Solomon agreed with Cedar at that. Though the bear had no way of knowing, Solomon was formulating ways in which he could secure the late Von Kruber’s family. At least the bear was helpful in revealing to Solomon the family in question.

As for Silas and his comments, the women were taking care of themselves. So all in all, Solomon had very little reason if at all to involve himself within the political drama erupting around him. An orderly appeared offering Solomon a stemmed glass of fine drink. Solomon accepted, though only had it sitting at the table for now. His plate vanished at some point between then and now, but Solomon paid it no mind. For now, he was people watching still alone at his table. Somehow, even with most of his figure covered in cloth, he didn’t seem bothered by it.

Sovereign's Will: A Fantasy Roleplaying Game. [CONCLUDED]

Solomon Sparrow

Location: Rascade, Kindeance

---

Solomon slowly closed his eyes with a very slight nod when Cedar expressed interest and gratitude to Solomon’s offer. He pulled his right hand out from under his chin, and turned it up right. His mask waved as Solomon’s lips opened and closed underneath, though any words he might have spoken couldn’t’ be heard.

“Now, if I remember correctly, Caitlyn Stritzel’s residence should be…” Solomon spoke sofetly to himself. He quickly turned his upright hand over again before resting it back down on the table. Solomon had given his order to be carried out. Yet, even the most observant person wouldn’t have seen anything. Traveling exclusively through the shadows cast by the lights of the venue, the undead shadow’s departure would be entirely unnoticed. Even among the guests, the staff wandering the halls of the castle, even the townsfolk walking the streets of the city.

“It will be some time before we have an answer.” said Solomon, “Even for them, nothing is instant. I suggest you take your time to relax. It won’t do you much good worrying about before we have anything concrete. Now, I think I will partake in the banquet. The meal you selected looks quite delicious. I might try some for myself.”

Solomon stood from his place at the table for the first time since arriving. He left Cedar to his own devices now. As he approached the table, Solomon kept his gaze at the other guests. There was something about familiar about Stritzel that didn’t sit right. It’s one of the reasons Solomon offered his shadow for Cedar. There was also the Delvings. Their involvement was far from over. No one goes through the lengths they have to give up now. Still, Solomon gave some hope towards Silas. And then there was the York family. Appearing twice so frequently seemed suspicious. There were many reasons Solomon was not a fan of nobility, but their tendency towards the inhumane was ever growing.

Sovereign's Will: A Fantasy Roleplaying Game. [CONCLUDED]

Solomon Sparrow

Location: Rascade, Kindeance

---

Solomon rest his elbows on the empty place on the table in front of him. His fingers interlaced forming a bridge under his chin. Since the banquet began, Solomon had not moved from that spot, not even to acquire a plate of food for himself. Yet, he was able to witness so many interactions between the nobility and the rescue party.

“That is intriguing, isn’t it?” said Solomon. He watched patiently as Stritzel got in close, revealing personal secrets to each other. Yet, it wasn’t anything Solomon felt he’d have to intervene. Even so, when Cedar tried to be subtle, he had enough tells to show he was bothered. And it wasn’t just how uncomfortably close Stritzel got to him. Some of her words had left an impression. Solomon could not recall exactly, but some of what Stritzel had said seemed familiar. Though neither of them had come before, she didn’t seem entirely like a stranger. Solomon continued his musing.

“Yet even so, it would probably be better if you let it be. You’ll only bring yourself unpleasantness if you pursue it further.” Solomon knew that his vague words wouldn’t mean anything to Cedar. There before him was a fish enticing enough to risk the trip wire. Solomon couldn’t fault him for it.

“How about I run a little reconnaissance for you?” said Solomon, “you remember my friends among the shadows? I could have one check up on your brother in arms. You are clearly worried. I cannot do much about Stritzel, but I can at least give this Ted a wellness check.”

Sovereign's Will: A Fantasy Roleplaying Game. [CONCLUDED]

Solomon Sparrow

Location: Rascade, Kindeance

---

“Do you know how boring it is, sitting in here all day?” complained a surprisingly young sounding voice. However, one look at the origin of the voice, and the tone of the voice would be the least concerning thing about it. A spectral upper body, arms crossed, the feminine face pouting. Following her form revealed its odd attachment to a compete physical body of the same young woman. However, one look at the color of her skin, and the stiffness in her posture would divulge her as a corpse. A well preserved corpse, but one all the same.

“Now I hear there is a banquet being held, and you will not allow me to attend? Am I not of noble blood, I should be allowed. Do you know how long it has been since my last appearance?”

“Probably as long since your family name had any authority. Few live knowing the name Lavow. And those who remember it, remember why it fell.” said Solomon bluntly. He was unwrapping the carefully curated attire at the desk. Master Mario was deserving of his title. Without even having put it on yet, the quality of his work was very apparent.

After the Yvonne was whisked away with the maid, Solomon enjoyed his drink with Cedar. Without her egging him on, the mood dimmed. Solomon didn’t think it was soured, but Solomon’s more somber demeanor was nothing compared to the enthusiasm Yvonne had to alcohol. When the drinking was done, Solomon returned to his room to find his outfit waiting for him. Not only his quality, but his speed as well.

“Besides” Solomon continued, preparing himself to change into the new suit, “Unless you have a spell to disguise yourself within your book, I’m afraid your appearance would cause too much of a disturbance.”

“If you provided me some arcane literature, I just might. At least then, I wouldn’t be so unbearably bored. Hold on, the bear is allowed to attend then. And I am left to wallow alone?”

“As I recall, the banquet is to celebrate those the king summoned for this mission. At least in part. Cedar was monumental to that end.” Solomon had finished dressing up. He looped the belt through the fasteners of his tome, it resting neatly at his side, just behind where his arm would rest. Awkward to look at given its size, but the suit worked to complement its presence. All together, Solomon was dressed in a two button tailcoat, with an elegant white shirt. His trousers matched. Along with the socks and dress shoes. He wore silk gloves over his hands, and maintained the mask he was wearing before. Luckily, the colors matched. Finally, he had a fedora. Despite how dressed up he was, it was less than what he usually wore. Or at least, this outfit was more form fitting. Without his cloak, and travel garments, one could really see Solomon’s frame. In comparison, he was really quite thin. And the skin one could see around his eyes and back of his head really showed just how old he was. Despite it, he stood as straight as he could. The outfit really worked for him.

As the door was gently pushed to a close behind Solomon, Petra called out, “Watch out for more mad wizards. I wonder how the opposition will react.”

---

At the banquet, Solomon sat at the same table as Cedar. During the speech and recognition, Cedar looked to be struggling with his outfit. A bear in formal attire worked surprising well for Cedar. More hidden praise for Mario it seemed.

After the toast, everyone was starting to mingle. Solomon sipped on the drink at his table, watching the others. He looked at the different faces. He recognized only a few of them. Normally people of this status were not his usual clientele. In fact, this situation with the king and his newly returned son was the first he was hired in any capacity by the nobility. He of course recognized Delving, and his family. Though Solomon could have sworn Jonas had another son.

Solomon looked at Cedar. He appeared to be uncomfortable. Whether it was his clothes, the vicinity, or the presence of the very people rioting for war, Solomon couldn’t tell. It could even be all of those things and more.

“Tell me, Cedar. What are your endeavors once all is said and done?” asked Solomon. He placed his cup gingerly on the table, leaning closer to rest his arms atop it. “I do not imagine you will stay in Kindeance for much longer. The king’s appointment. I have a feeling it’s not your choice in accolades.”

Sovereign's Will: A Fantasy Roleplaying Game. [CONCLUDED]

Solomon Sparrow

Location: Rascade, Kindeance

---

Solomon chuckled. Despite the noise, it looked more like they were simply having a good time as opposed to being disruptive. Cedar was just a loud and excitable bear. Solomon walked over to the table and took a seat next to the maid, pulling one of the mugs placed in front of her towards him instead. Though he wasn’t much of a drinker, he still had one occasionally. Besides, it wasn’t like he even could be drunk, let alone tipsy.

“Very well, Cedar. I’ll take you up on that. Just one drink for me. I think I’ll leave the selection to you and Yvonne.” said Solomon. He turned to the maid who had her palm over her eyes. She was mumbling to herself. “My apologies for their rowdiness. I’ll try to keep it from escalating. I hope it’s not too much of an inconvenience.”

Sovereign's Will: A Fantasy Roleplaying Game. [CONCLUDED]

Solomon Sparrow

Location: Rascade, Kindeance

---

Solomon began to regret not supervising Yvonne when she went into the cellar. When he had went with Yvonne to the kitchen Solomon elected to stay with the chefs. He wasn’t much of a drinker, but he didn’t want to let his absence ruin Yvonne’s fun. Instead, he watched the chefs prepare for the evening’s banquet. Hundreds of vegetables were laying on the counter, various meats were hanging on hooks. A large pot was simmering over a bricked fire. When Cedar showed up not long after, Solomon assumed he would keep Yvonne close to sober.

That was until Cedar’s cheers echoed up into the kitchen. It only briefly paused those prepping the food near the stairs, but otherwise they were quick to resume. Of all people, Solomon figured Cedar would be the most sensible, but it sounded like he was caught up in Yvonne’s drinking game. Solomon walked down into the cellar. They were sampling various vintages. Solomon used the word Sampling lightly, if the mugs were of any evidence. Sitting at the table was the maid, clearly exasperated by the other two. She clearly had no interest to take part.

“Perhaps you should leave the poor girl alone?” questioned Solomon, “And might I recommend slowing down? If you haven’t eaten yet, you might lose yourself faster than you think. Especially you, Cedar. I don’t think the loo can easily accommodate you.”

Sovereign's Will: A Fantasy Roleplaying Game. [CONCLUDED]

Solomon Sparrow

Location: Rascade, Kindeance

---

Solomon brought his thumb and index finger to his chin, imagining the outfit Mario recommended. It sounded quite fashionable, and very suitable for the occasion. The jacket and trousers, along with the hat. Yes, though he would still be dressed up, it would be less loose fabric. Still, he believed it enough to hide most of the atrophy undeath had brought upon his body.

“That sounds wonderful.” said Solomon, lowering his arm back down, “A sharp suit such as described should suit me well. If I may ask the belt be strong enough to hold not only the ensemble, but my admittedly cumbersome tome. I’m afraid I am unable to leave it behind. I hope that would not be any trouble. Beyond that, I look forward to the finished product.”

Sovereign's Will: A Fantasy Roleplaying Game. [CONCLUDED]

Solomon Sparrow

Location: Rascade, Kindeance

---

Solomon found his way back into the castle. Several attendants and maids tried to either halt him or help him. It was actually quite amusing as some would recognize him as a guest, while others felt his presence out of place and attempted to remove him from the castle grounds. These humorous back and forth between staff members ceased by the time Solomon returned to the west wing of the castle. There the maids were busy cleaning. Dusting the busts on thin tables, and cleaning the curtains.

Solomon asked one of them if there about the tailor. He didn’t know specifically where he was. All Solomon really knew about him was that he was good, fast, and located somewhere in the west wing. The maid bowed and provided him some directions, offering to guide him herself. Solomon politely declined, turning his back. He walked down the hall in the direction the maid pointed. Despite this, the maid caught up with him.

“It’s no problem, sir. It’s only proper that one does not enter unannounced.” she said, dusting her hands on her apron. She then led him the rest of the way. Solomon only thanked her and followed. There wasn’t any point in arguing about it. After a short walk, she led him up a staircase. The door jingled as the maid opened the door.

“Pardon. I have another of the king’s guests here to see Master Mario.” she said.

Sovereign's Will: A Fantasy Roleplaying Game. [CONCLUDED]

Solomon Sparrow

Location: Rascade, Kindeance

---

After Solomon left the private reward ceremony, he went to check up on Gerralt in the basement, making sure that no one was following him. Especially if any of his allies. He didn’t want to spoil the surprise. In reality, he actually wanted to minimize how much contact they had with him. He knew there was no hiding what Solomon had done to any who raided the Black Serpent Guild. But he also knew of the harm he brought to them even if indirectly. Solomon felt it best to keep any emotions they still felt about the incident minimal.

When Solomon arrived, he was already moved. Though he was asked to be among the executioners, Solomon politely refused. However, he did mention he would be among the audience. Solomon may have enabled them to even hold the execution, but he didn’t want his name tied to it. Not now, anyway. But he also knew his attendance would be necessary. Gerralt could still not respond to the pain he was experiencing, which worked against the king’s plan, and the Jailer’s hopes. Furthermore, Gerralt existed as undead. A poorly resurrected being, but still a creature that would easily survive being torn by the horses.

When it came time for the execution, Solomon was near, blended into the crowd, but otherwise front and center to watch. As soon as the ropes become taught, Solomon whispered softly. With everyone jeering and whooping around him, his voice was unheard by any, even those pressed next to him. All at once, Gerralt could express the torture he was going through, from both the pull of the horses, and the pain of his previously existing grievous wounds.

When the reanimated corpse’s blood stained the dirt below, and stench was horrendous. One who stood next to Solomon reeled back into him, spilling his beer, some splashing onto Solomon’s clothes. The man offered a quick apologies before he covered his nose, returning to his cheers. Gerralt was now in four distinct parts. His legs lay wrangled at the backs of two horses, and his arm lay several feet from the socket it was once connected. Gerralt’s screams were garbled as fluids filled his lungs. It was only a moment, but was an agonizing one for Gerralt. He would have felt and continue to feel the agony throughout his torn body. Solomon released his hold over the raised dead, freeing Gerralt’s soul from the perverse spell, letting it return to the afterlife. Gerralt’s eyes were once again lifeless. His face was more twisted than when Solomon first came across his body within the mortuary lab.

With the execution now over, Solomon made his way through the crowd. There was a banquet being held tonight in which he was invited. He needed to first clean off the beer that spilled onto his garb. Then he needed to find a tailor. Solomon rarely visited major cities, let alone was invited to royal banquets. He was going to need a set of proper clothes for the occasion, if only for the night.

Sovereign's Will: A Fantasy Roleplaying Game. [CONCLUDED]

Solomon Sparrow

Location: Rascade, Kindeance

---

Solomon wandered next to the lying corpse upon the ground. He looked down on the Gerralt. Beyond just the physical pain he was forced to endure in silence, he was also in emotional turmoil. Everything was taken from him, and now he was crudely resurrected to experience it again. He was to fully know the consequences his departure had brought. This would have killed lesser men, and here Gerralt lay, his psyche broken. Solomon knelt down, slowly until he was almost face to face with the animated corpse.

“No more hostility. This is your bed. This is only a fraction of the anguish you have dealt yourself. Never you mind what comes next. You are the king’s prisoner, and you will comply.”

Solomon stood back up, and faced the others. He stepped around Gerralt’s body to where the apothecary was leaning against the table. Blood had soaked his tunic around his shoulder, the pencil lay across the room, being tossed after Gerralt’s sudden attack.

“Let me see. I should mend this before you get an infection.” said Solomon. He reached beneath is cloak and removed his satchel. With fresh bandages and a bottle of antiseptic, Solomon cleaned Roland up, and wrapped the wound. Thankfully, it wasn’t too deep, but would be tender for a little while as it healed. In the mean time, the others went to take care of Gerralt. He remained motionless on the ground, with only the most minimal evidence he was animated to begin with.

“I can see myself back to my room.” said Solomon, as he was stowing his supplies away. “I have gathered what I need. I am appreciative of the opportunity. Solomon opened the heavy door and ascended the stairs. The night was aging, and morning was only a couple hours away. Solomon had a few more reservations he had to go through before meeting the King.

-----

Come morning, Solomon was chatting with Petra. She was equal parts intrigued and appalled by the events that occurred just hours before. She even went so far as to chastise him as a hypocrite. Solomon took it in stride, explained his reasons once more and left it at that. Solomon’s goals were not going to be an easy one. Though he would do everything in his power to prevent needless harm or suffering, sometimes the end justifies the means. Had he been successful, Solomon would have intended Gerralt join him and his allies within the new world where true resurrection and immortality could exist. Instead, Kindeance law had other plans.

Solomon went with the others farther back towards the west wing. He didn’t think they would be led to the sight of Gerralt, and was partially relieved when they passed by the hall that split off down a path leading to the basement. He still did not want Cedar to see what had happened there, for Cedar’s sake. Instead, they went farther into another secluded part of the castle. Solomon supposed that their involvement with the prince’s return is still meant to be kept from the people of Rascade. Which made sense, his absence was never meant to be know, so his rescuers would have to go on into obscurity in the eyes of the public.

He couldn’t say he was surprised the King wasn’t present. If not being celebrating his reunion with his son, he was at least involved with furthering his plan of Kindeance security. He could tell from the distance of his tailing shadows that the prince was also nowhere near the west wing. Solomon closed his eyes, with a slight smile as he listened to the rest of the chamberlain’s instruction. A horse would certainly speed up his travels. And the reward within the boxes were sure not to be small either. Any common man with the skill and opportunity to embark this quest would be happy with the reward.

“I thank you.” said Solomon, “It was both an honor and enlightening to have been requested to aide the king. If I may, I’ll take my leave. There is a matter I wish to check up on.” Solomon turned and left the room. A banquet tonight sounded nice, but there was another event coming, soon to be announced. He needed to be present in one form or another for its conclusion.