[Imperial Citadel] Prelude to Operation Isle of the Crown [Adventurers Apply Here]

[Milo L'Evienne]

Brightenings 20 thru 30 of Ioannes, Summer of Era XIII

In preparation for an expedition to the Isle of the Crown on the thirty-fifth brightening of Ioannes; to be led by Regent Milo L’Evienne along with a number of Rosemen, Imperial mages and members of the Imperial Legions, those aspiring to accompany that expedition had been asked through a public call in the Herald to present themselves to the Imperial Citadel for clearance by the Knights of the Black Rose: where those found to possess the proper qualities for such a task and destination would be met with a final approval. The Citadel itself was a massive structure situated inside the Imperial Forum, its architecture somewhat similar, though surely more imposing than that of its surrounding government buildings. The complex was surrounded by high walls and secured gates, the space within containing training yards and a number of buildings for learning, training and housing purposes all. When not on duty within palace walls while watching over the sovereign and his family, this was the home of the legendary Knights of the Black Rose and their squires.

Those wishing to enter the citadel were met at each of several heavy gates by pairs of Rosemen who would check visas and weapons before passing prospective adventurers further into the compound. Eventually, candidates would pass through a pair of heavily fortified doors into a massive hall with marbled floors and high ceilings, tapestries of battle scenes covering every wall, where they would be met by any one of the Knights of the Black Rose, who would begin the process of approving those wishing to accompany the expedition.

[Shorty]

To:
His Imperial Excellency Milo L'Evienne, Regent

From:
Office of the Order of the Black Rose
Imperial Citadel
Alleria Prime

Excellency,

The following forces, ships and personnel have been pledged for the forthcoming journey to the Isle of the Crown. It goes without saying that the entire compliment (sans detachment to protect the Imperial Family) of the Order of the Black Rose will be protecting Your Excellencies' well being.

Imperial Legions-
1st Centurio of the 1st Legion

Imperial Classis-
1 Ala (5 ships) of the 1st Classis
-1 Brig to transport Legionaires
-1 Converted Brig to carry and launch 25 Pegasi Marine Scouts
-2 War Galleons, Third Class
-1 Ship-of-the-line, Second Class
-Imperial Marine Detachment 1st Cohortis, 1st Marine Classis

Additional support will be offered from Classis vessels patrolling the seas around the Isle of the Crown.

Also the Imperial Chronicler, Duerain Whurfick has indicated he will make the journey with scribes.

All will be ready to leave once the rest of the party is assembled.

Your Servant,
Sir James
Order of the Black Rose

[Atl Myrsa]

Atl walked into the large building that had been set aside to gather adventures for the coming trip to the Isle of the Crown. Atl having come from the interview with the regent didn't have his weapon upon him. So it was that after showing his visa to the guards at the gate, the Journeyman Druid walked forward towards the regestration desk. He was dressed in a green robe with a simple white overcoat. Instead of the classical long hair. His hair had been cut short and clearly showed his long pointed ears. Again to stand incontrast he was broder in the shoulders then one normally found, and while handsom lacked the elven beauty so admired by some.

"I am Atl Myrsa. Here to join the expedition to the recently returned Isle of the Crown." Atl had always respected the Imperial goverment, since it was the one thing that provided stability in this land were diversity was the most distingusing feature. When the follower of Carmelya had read the call for people to join the expedition he had felt that he also needed to join with others to help reclaim the ancient and sacred island. So it was that he was here to present himself for services to the Empire and the Gods

[Faust D'Rinishad]

The Vysstichi Lord’s hazel boots clattered rhythmically along the finely polished floors of the Imperial Citadel, drumming a consistent melody of perfectly timed beats that echoed to the towering ceilings. Surprisingly, though, there were moments when the dark elf’s resounding footsteps abruptly muted, indicating that perhaps his boisterous entrance could easily have been nullified and subdued. Observers would forever have to subscribe to the school of wonder, however, for little could they have known of the Vysstichi Lord’s harmonization with self-control.

Although it had not been long since Alleria Prime had been graced by the presence of Faust D’Rinishad, the city was certainly unaccustomed to witnessing the likes of his obsidian-skinned brethren. This reality did not daunt the dark elf, however, for he had gradually developed a reputation for himself that was becoming rapidly widespread and salient. And despite the animosity that was predictably harnessed upon his despised race, the Prince of Har’oloth did not fear anyone. He carried no sword this brightening for he was no enemy.

That and the fact that he knew that it was illegal to carry weapons in establishments as affluent as the Crown Tavern and Inn. Thus the same could easily have been presumed of the Imperial Citadel.

Arriving before the decorated guards, the Lord of House D’Rinishad gifted them with perfunctory nods. The fact that he was to be searched from head to toe did not bode well with his conscience, but it was a safety measure that even he understood to be imperative and necessary. “Serale.” the dark elf greeted shortly before executing a flawless bow, one that included the procuring of his weathered visa amidst the gesticulation. Extending the parchment apathetically, he waited momentarily before being ushered through the gates and into the main hall where the others lingered.

Chin tilted upwards but crimson gaze constantly trained ahead, the Vysstichi Lord sighed and advanced further inside. As he strode, his callused ebony hands, embraced by peculiar silver gloves, swung casually by his sides, enough so to part the folds of his cloak and reveal multi-scintillating glints of the mythril chain shirt that he wore beneath. Even more peculiar was the fact that traces of scarlet could be perceived with each sway of his arms, though the color was shortly buried beneath the layers of his sapphire mantle as the folds fell back into place.

As the only crest that he bore was the crescent moon emblem of House D’Rinishad, it was transparent that the dark elf’s investments were not with the Order of the Black Rose or the Imperial Legion –he was independent of such institutions. Having rallied to the call issued through the Herald, the Prince of Har’oloth had dutifully endeavored to participate in the expedition to secure the Insula Coronae. Although the prospect of adventure had certainly appealed to him, even more convincing had been the opportunity to demonstrate to the Empire the aims of House D’Rinishad, the likes of which included the genuine desire to be accepted and welcomed throughout the lands.

And if that meant protecting the very people that had oftentimes persecuted them…so be it.

Pausing and glancing around expectedly to be addressed and examined, the dark elf waited patiently.

[Liselle Vampyler Sapientia]

It hadn’t taken the young woman long to reach the decision to venture to the Imperial Palace and put her name forth to travel to the Isle of the Crown. To others, she would appear to be just a normal citizen, but known only to a precious few, Liselle was being considered for the position of Thane and Governor of the capital city and the Province in which it resided. The Regent had put his faith in her, so when the call went out to help secure the Isle, there was no choice in the matter for her.

She would help Milo whenever and wherever he needed.

Instead of being clad in one of her flowing silk gowns however, she opted to wear more appropriate clothing to the task at hand. In other words, black leather wrapped itself stylishly around the lithe young woman. It wasn’t a color Liselle normally wore but it fit her mood that day. Offering services to the Empire was a serious task and Liselle was equally serious about her commitment to said Empire..and to Milo. Completing the ensemble, a black cloak surrounded her shoulder, clasped with a silver moon shaped pendent, and a set of leather elven tracking boots. Against her right hip lay the pride and joy of Liselle’s weapons arsenal…..”Vala”….as named by the woman herself.

She had considered not bring the sword, but as they were looking for serious individuals, Liselle had learned long ago that that military types tended to take individuals more seriously that carried weapons upon them. She made sure to peace bind the sash around the sword, to indicate her intentions, but all in all, it was about appearances more then anything.

She was deadly with a sword.

Making her way to the first set of guards, Liselle produced her visa and credentials and continued on through the maze of guards before arriving at the final destination where there already seemed to be people amassed. For the moment, she wasn’t concentrating on the people present, only her inner thoughts and the reasons behind what she was doing. Was it for Milo? Her family? For Vampyler? Her children?

Or was it for herself? To prove that she wasn’t the disaster she thought herself to be.

Time would only tell.

[Veleraen]

Atl Myrsa

As the Nimalni passed through the heavy doors of the Order, his boots echoing off the marbled floor of the hall, he found that there had already been a small gathering of people in the hall waiting to be interviewed by some of the Knights of the Black Rose. However as Atl approached he was greeted not by any Knight, he was greeted by Veleraen as the Giant rose from a very large wooden bench to which he had been sitting on.

The giant was covered his usual black and red uniform of the Order and had a very scarred face, his greyish eyes looking down at the elven man in his green and white attire. As Atl said his greeting, a very low and gutteral greeting was ushered back. "Hail Atl Myrsa, please take a seat." The giant motioned towards a wooden chair in front of a set of tables that had been set up to interview the newcomers wanting to set out and adventure onto the Isle of the Crown. Veleraen followed suit as he sat down on his enormous seat, his knees still slightly higher than Myrsa was sitting down.

As Veleraen scanned the man's demeanour and body language, the Giant didn't know what to think of the Elf just yet. He was hesitant to make any judgement until he had heard what the Nimalni had to say for himself.

"So, Mister Myrsa, I am Sir Veleraen. Please, tell me of yourself, what you do professionally and the skills that you think you may lend to our expedition."


Faust

The vysstichi were a race who were frowned upon in the past and with some good reason, however every able bodied person who wanted to help was to be given a chance to convince the Order otherwise and Faust was no exception. The very finely dressed Prince of Har'oloth bore the mark of his house with pride and with every stride into the hall he was greeted with an uneasy look by many of the Knights and other adventurers in the hall looking to get a piece of the action.

As Faust approached the head of the tables in which a few select Knights were doing the interviews, Faust came to a table with a Giant who sat behind it. As Veleraen looked at Faust, he couldn't help but recall an image from the past as he thought he had recognized the Vysstichi from somewhere. "Perhaps it was in the Heartlands..." An eyebrow raised upon the Giant's scarred face but it was nothing more than that.

"Please take a seat." Veleraen motioned towards a wooden chair in front of the table. "My name is Sir Veleraen and I presume you are here to offer your services to the Regent. May I ask, what is your name, your profession and what do you feel you may offer to our expedition?" The giant's voice was a little harder with the Vysstichi as all dark races were suspected of being mischevious and deceitful within the Empire. However Veleraen wasn't about to count out the elven man just because of his race. Perhaps it was a weakness of the Knight but then again it was his oath to "conduct himself courteously, reverently,
courageously, bravely, faithfully and truthfully".

Liselle

Liselle appeared very innocent to Veleraen as he noticed the small woman approaching through the line of warriors and proven mercenaries. Her long dark hair and her dark blue eyes seemed to stand out in the mess that stood before him.

As the human woman came forward Liselle found herself in front of no ordinary Knight. Sir Veleraen stood at fifteen feet tall and had a bald head except for a skull locked red ponytail and a red beard hanging from his chin. His face was decorated with scars from past wars as it came into view, the Giant looking down upon the human woman, curious as to why such a person would want to adventure into such a dangerous place.

"Ma'am, please, have a seat. The giant waited for her to sit until he took his own seat. Veleraen had a look himself that seemed to question himself as to why Liselle was here, however the Titan didn't rule anything out at that point. "So, please, state your name, your profession and what you have, skill, or otherwise to help with this expedition and most importantly, why you want to come on our expedition." The giant crossed his arms, awaiting Liselle's answer.

[Atl Myrsa]

Atl looked up at the giant who had greeted him. Atl had on occasions had the opportunity to meet giants on a couple of occasions, but never for long periods of times. So it was that Atl was impressed by the size and the uniform of the Knight that had greeted him. The Druid walked forward to the desk and took a seat were it was indicated.

Atl noticed Sir Veleraen looking him over and he gave a half smile. Atl was sure that he looked like a strange sight dressed in robes and nor as a solider. That was something that Atl always noticed was that people were always surprised by the robes. His blue eyes sparked for a moment in gentle humor before he answered Sir Veleraen.

“My day time job is Thane of Mystique. When I read about the call for adventures to help in the recover of the island of the Crown I knew that I needed to offer my services.” Atl then continued on. “I have a few skills to offer. I am a Journeyman druid trained in Mystique.” Atl said with a sweep of his hands to indicate the robes that he was currently wearing. “In my lessons to become druid battles were a part of my lessons.” Atl said before the usual comments about druids and battles was forth coming. “I have also received training in the use of a long sword.” Atl paused and continued. “Also a strong love for the empire, and a wish to help keep the peace that the empire provides.”

[Odyleon]

The cookies were a parting gift from Monfalgor, the Lutran cook of the Angel Inn. Cyraxian cookies, he had dubbed them, knowing full well the human's skewed sense of humor. Extra-large cookies, mostly round except for two pointy horn-like appendages, they featured two tiny holes for eyes and a soft, zigzag incision which was supposed to represent a demonic mouth; he showed up at the Citadel munching on a perfect specimen of such Aeternian baked goods.

In his other hand he carried the obligatory briefcase, carrying the obligatory lemniscate or infinity sign. What could be inside was anyone's guess, though the Mage had surely stocked up on Arcana before leaving Taralon. Clad in his signature creamy cloak, white gloves, dark shirt and trousers, he stood rather unimpressed with the Imperial Citadel, a place he knew quite well from having lived in it for several months. He was tall, too tall for his lanky build, large pitch black eyes watching the world in perpetual motion.

He had read that the Knights of the Black Rose would be screening the candidates, and though he was on first name terms with the Regent and his wife, he guessed that Milo wanted to keep everyone on even grounds. There was some measure of curiosity brewing in him about who else would volunteer for the expedition. Clearly there was danger involved, possibly mortal danger. Ody had long learnt to simply discard the notion of danger - danger was inherent to every human activity. He had said his goodbyes to Robyn as though he'd gone on a leisure trip, though she knew the full truth of it. She was hurting right now, and he knew it, but he could not let her come with him this time.

Shaking the painful thought off, he produced his visa and introduced himself to the guard on duty. "Odyleon Q. Meiers; Truthseeker, Mage, Alchemist, self-styled Philosopher, former Senator; I'm here to join the expedition to the Isle of the Crown," he said in the monotone tone of voice he used when nothing in particular caught his interest.

[Darian]

Arriving exactly on the 30th Brightening, the final brightening of the call was the Jaedaxian Alchemist. He looked the part as well, though he had discarded his cavalier hat this brightening, having left it at home before the voyage. He wore a simple red jacket, with a snake twining around a sword embroidered on the chest in gold thread. Black trousers set the collection off, along with a pair of black, leather gloves.

When approached by the guards though he was all too happy to give over his visa. Well, happy might not be the right word. The Alchemist handed it over without much further comment, "I am Adrian de Aquinas, I have some knowledge of the Isle of the Crown," was all he said. He carried no real weapons, though he was glad to hand over the small knife he carried and left his leather doctor's bag with the guards. Quite assured of his safety among the Rosemen.

He wandered further inside, his cold, green eyes taking in the sights as he did so. Analyzing, dissecting. As a moraden, he would need to know the exit routes, just in case. But he did not look for them. That was to imply guilt. No, he kept his eyes dead ahead, not a single note of warmth or feeling touching his face as he wandered inside.

Then, another set of Rosemen, he meandered over to the closest one, "Serale," he said, by way of greeting, the cold word dropping like a slab in the hall, "I am Adrian de Aquinas. I am here because it was said they required someone with knowledge of the Isle." Repeating himself was not a thing the Alchemist liked doing, but for things like these, he supposed it was necessary. Then again, there were not a whole lot of things the Alchemist liked.

[Faust D'Rinishad]

Lingering apathetically amidst the hordes of prospective adventurers, the keen Vysstichi Lord intermittently discerned the several pairs of eyes that regarded him disdainfully. He had anticipated such reactions, though, and had thus dismissed them shortly afterwards. Having learned long ago to ignore such hostile expressions, the dark elven prince instead focused upon the task at hand. In truth it really did not matter, however. Faust did not need words of defense to speak on his behalf; his sword would do all of the speaking for him. And those blessed with the opportunity to accompany him would learn of this soon enough.

The dark elf’s silvery brows shifted marginally above his crimson eyes as he stared at the immense giant ensconced before him. Tilting his head curiously, the Lord of House D’Rinishad instinctively nodded in due reverence of the hulking humanoid’s esteemed position –that or the simple fact that the giant towered over him even while seated. Nevertheless, though, the Vysstichi’s disposition remained marked by self-confidence and poise, characteristics of one who had single-handedly defied adversity on innumerous occasions and subsequently emerged victorious.

“Greetings, Sir Veleraen.” the dark elf replied. Nodding faintly, he agreeably complied and descended into the proffered chair, crossing his foot over his knee while setting his hands upon the armrests. As he adopted a comfortable position, it occurred to him that the giant bore a semblance to another that he had seen, though as the Vysstichi Lord had slain dozens of the massive humanoids before, he supposed that it would not be wise to satiate his curiosity.

“You presume correct, Sir. Like many here, I desire to make use of my abilities on behalf of the Regent and the Empire.” Canting his head solemnly to accentuate his statement, he smiled faintly despite the sternness of the giant’s tone. “I am Faust D’Rinishad, former bodyguard to the Lady Imperial Chancellor Alicia Gil’dae and retired officer of the honorary Blades of Carmelya.” As he articulated, it was clear that there were dozens of other titles that the dark elf could have attached to his name, but as he did not care to bore the austere giant with a list of accomplishments, the dark elf instead focused upon his most recent of occupations.

“Currently, however, I have answered to the exemplary call of Carmelya to become one of her rangers, and I have humbly complied ever since.” Bowing his head respectfully, the dark elf’s visage adopted a suddenly more serious demeanor. “If my credentials do not speak on my behalf, though, I can serve both militarily and tactically. As a former Blade of Carmelya and currently a ranger, I’ve oftentimes been employed as a scout and patrol leader on numerous expeditions. Though if you simply need a frontline fighter, I suppose that I might be of service as well.” Nodding one final time, the dark elf was reminded of the instance when he and Serion D’Rinishad had single-handedly held one of the walls of Zerdargia during the undead invasion.

[Liselle Vampyler Sapientia]

The young woman sized up the man before her, eyes scanning over him quickly. She was a very observant girl in most regards and looking around at the people presenting themselves to the guards, it was very obvious that members of the male gender outnumbered her. Not surprising in the least, however, as she dealt with the same odds in politics. Seemed as though Liselle lived in a world dominated by men, so that was something she was used to. Her father had armed her well for that eventuality so when the questions started to fly, she had her answers ready. Looking the guard directly in the eyes, she gave him a nod of respect and smile and gave him the information he desired.

"My name is Liselle Vampyler-Sapientia. I am the former thane of Port Alyxandrya as well as Guild Mistress of the Stone Guard in Medonia. Currently, I am being interviewed for the dual position of thane of Alleria Prime and Governor of the Principality of Prime. I’m trained in the use of longsword and possess leadership abilities that can be utilized on this expedition. As for my reasons, I’m loyal to the Empire and the Regent and both have asked for help. As well, seeing as I’m being considered for a position here in the capital, I have a vested interest in seeing the Isle secure, for the future of the Empire...with my life if necessary."

Military types had no use for flowery prose and lies…and Liselle wasn’t in the mood for either. She didn't feel the need to mention that Milo was a personal friend, nor that her husband was the Imperial Admiral. She didn't even mention that her father was the legendary Epicurus Vampyler. He had asked a question and she simply gave him her reply. Beauty hiding a deadly warrior…always the most dangerous kind.

But then again, she was a Vampyler.

[Veleraen]

OOC: I know Milo contacted Dani, so i'm going to respond to as many as I can and if you want Dani you can interrupt whenever you want and take over. I'm just trying to move this stuff along.


Atl Myrsa

Veleraen had not met any druids in his life but he had heard good things about the wielders of nature's fury. Some of his own people had become mighty druids in the past and the Giant had a common respect for those who embraced Carmelya's ways. At the mention that Atl was Thane of Mystique, the Giant felt somewhat embarassed that he had not known of the man, smiling somewhat foolishly as Atl announced his title.

"My apologies sire, I did not know of your title or claim. I have been away training for the past era or so in a remote location. Being cut off from the world has a way of limiting your knowledge of current affairs." Veleraen reached over and pulled a piece of parchment from a pile ontop of the table and laid it to rest in front of him but did nothing with it just yet.

"I am glad you are lending your services to our cause your Lordship. A seasoned druid with the ability to wield a longsword is surely welcome to a piece of the action. I have a form here for every person accepted on our journey to fill out. We will need your place of residence in Alleria Prime so we may contact you when we are ready to depart and your name, along with the list of skills that you possess. Welcome aboard Sire." Veleraen reached down with his right hand to shake the Thane's own. Atl could see that the Giant was missing half of his pinky and ring finger, an injury sustained while fighting at the bloodfields of Malice.

Faust

As Veleraen looked the Vysstichi over, he could tell the elven man carried himself with esteem and pride and judging by the way Faust simply spoke that the Vysstichi definitely had something to offer to this expedition. Listening to Faust speak, there was a tone of sincerity about the elf which was rare with the darker races.

"Your offer to the Regent and this expedition is quite noble Mister D'Rinishad. As soon as you sat down I could tell you were a former military type. I guess it takes one to know one." Veleraen reached for a piece of parchment on the table and put it in front of him, still looking at Faust. "Your list of achievements is quite impressive, you would have made a very good Roseman Mister D'Rinishad, of that I have no doubt. In front of me is a form I need you to fill out. I need your full name, and a list of skills you have to offer, detailed as much as you wish. I will also need your place of residence while you stay here in Alleria Prime so we can contact you when we are ready to depart. While I do not have a final say in whether you stay or go Mister D'Rinishad, I do hope you will be able to lend your expertise in this mission." The giant pushed the form over towards Faust and put a quill next to it for Faust to use. A confident smile came over Veleraen's face as he had a good feeling about the dark elf, proving once again not to judge a book by its cover.

Liselle

Veleraen could tell the woman that sat in front of him had something to prove and the Giant was intrigued as to what Liselle had to say. As soon as Liselle spoke and mentioned the name Vampyler, the Titan raised an eyebrow, curious as to whether or not she was related to Epicurus, the man he had met in the countryside a while ago.

"Well Miss Sapientia, I can see you are able bodied and seem willing to give up a fight if we should run into any trouble out there. We will need people like you and while you may be one of the very few women coming along on our expedition, you will not be overlooked. May I ask....are you related to a one, Epicurus Vampyler? I met him in the countryside outside of Alleria Prime one brightening while training. A good man he was, and while my encounter was brief, I can still remember what he looked like....You have a similar look about you..." Veleraen's eyebrows furrowed as he focused in on Liselle, trying to see a resemblance. If she answered or not, Veleraen was still convinced that the expedition could definitely use the woman in their journey to the isle.

"So Miss Sapientia, here i have a form i need you to fill out. I will need your name, your place of residence while here in Alleria Prime and a list of skills and experience that you are bringing to the table on this expedition. We shall contact you as soon as we are ready to depart." Veleraen grabbed a piece of parchment and a quill and set it in front of Liselle to fill out.


OOC2: Darian and Ody, I will get to you guys soon, I don't have time atm to respond to you so I shall reply ASAP.