[The Earl's Estate] Mateus Villa - Page 2

Riconus Xind'ell · January 28, 2008, 01:32 PM

Kella

Riconus gave a small laugh as his creativity in naming things was noted. In all honestly, creativity was far from his forte. "Haha, thank you, I hoped others believed the Sapphire Guard had some sort of ring to its name. Actually, the name stems from where I first developed the Guard's idea, in Syl'rosya's Restwood glade. My estate there is surrounded by a natural wonder called the Sapphire Grove, where the flowers emit a blue mist- so it wasn't really all that creative. I would have encourage you to visit the Sapphire Grove at least once, though."

Her outlook on life was certainly a human one, for under the presumption that immortality would keep him around for a very long time, Riconus always tried to have a distant outlook on what he hoped to achieve. Alas, all never went as planned, so perhaps it was better to simply take life as it came. Another sip finished his glass of wine, and as he commented on Kella's hopes and dreams, so too did he grab the bottle for yet another refilling of his goblet.

"Lady mercenaries, you say? Sounds quite like the interesting idea, although I would stress you be careful in your selection. Choosing a lady like Victoria might be necessary for the Imperial Legions, but choosing her pyschotic character for a private military firm might have disastrous results.

When you see fit to end your military career, I would urge you to see me again, then. The mercenaries and the noble house will already be provided for you- all you'll need to choose is your team."

The two were close enough to the shoreline that an aggressive enough tide came straight up to their feet. Riconus took note of it everytime, happy to see that the water was warming up underneath the summer suns. He rose from his seat on the beach to soak his feet a bit in the water, while answering Kella's question allthewhile.

"Hmm, I'm not quite sure this is exactly what I believe would become of me when I was younger, and I surely didn't consider the ways I would have to survive if I wanted to succeed. When I was a younger man, I suppose I imagined that I would become a member of the Phalanx Mortale in Syl'rosya, marry young and live as a successor to my father's house.

But I'm glad that's not what has happened. Birth rites, regiments, marriages; all are just things that would bind me against doing what I wanted. You would not agree?"

Riconus bent down to feel the water with his palm, citing a nod upon his approval and moving back to his wine. Despite trying to be a gentlemen whenever he could, those manners were brushed a side for a moment as he polished off his glass of wine in one quick gulp, and upon setting it back down, began to peel back the buttons of his shirt. His down dressing was quickly explained, so as not to confuse Kella.

"The water is quite lovely at this time of brightening, so I believe I'll go for a swim. Perhaps you would care to join me?"

His shirt was peeled off to reveal an atypical military form, well developed and with a few scars below his left pectoral. He pointed them out, almost as a badge of honor to his guest. "Got that scar from the Battle of Centripax, when Audrey De Lylles defeated Julos the Mad for the Imperial Throne. One of Julos' undead warriors got to me before I could hack it down- nasty bastards, those things." While removing his shirt was nothing unorthodox, relieving himself of his slacks was perhaps a little odd at first, for it left the Syl'rosyan as nude as the brightening the Gods entered him into the Material Plane. However, perhaps it could be attributed to patterns in the Imperial Legions where the nude form wasn't all that uncommon, be it in the lavatory, infirmary or gymnasium.

Nevertheless, Riconus seemed anything but shamed or uncomfortable as he entered the water, soaking his entire body underwater once before returning to the surface, and looking to see Kella's decision. "Well then, you coming? There's nothing to be shy about, and the water is perfect."

Riconus Xind'ell · January 28, 2008, 01:45 PM

Camilla

"Well, there would be many duties to perform, as well as responsibilities to undertake." cited Riconus, the last of his wine finding its way to the back of his mouth. "As Prefect of Portshire, you would be charged with recovering the security and peace of the city, as well as creating your own initiatives to find and capture criminals. Your powers would include making recommendations on sentences for the thieves and pirates we will be apprehending, coordinating the training schedules and mobilization of your Constables, and generally restoring the people's faith in Portshire's justice system.

As a Commander in the Sapphire Guard, however..." Riconus finally put down his glass for the first time in the meeting, and centered all attention towards his next words. "You will be a high-ranking member of the Aelyrian Empire's most prominent militia. You will be required to serve with the thousands of other Guardsmen when a community in our Empire requires our service, and be an example to all other soldiers under your command in Portshire. The example you must demonstrate will be simple- that you are an Aelyrian citizen, and you will do whatever it takes to defend what the Gods have granted you. Because you are part of the Guard, we will be able to provide for you reserve troops should you feel Portshire requires extra support for an operation, as well as a considerable stripend on any and all spoils we recover during our campaigns."

Kella Greeran · January 28, 2008, 09:41 PM

Using only the brief description of the grove, Kella pictured herself beautifully veiled in an azure mist, with sapphire buds opening at her feet. Meandering beneath blue shade, immersed in the gods' kinder versions of their creation.
"I will take that encouragement to visit to heart."

Kella nodded at Riconus's further recommendations, adding a wry bit of commentary.
"Ah yes, Victoria. Or icky-Vicky as she is called in my thoughts." She added guiltily, "Childish I know," before continuing, "While I wager she is far more effective than myself for many things, I would not like her as a member of my own small society."

The woman's eyes widened as she fumbled with a feeling of surprise over Riconus's suggestion that she pay him a visit when her career ended. Perhaps she would see this villa again, if she could keep herself from any potentially blasphemous behavior.
"That is a terribly tempting offer." She wrapped her arms around her knees and her voice was quiet with introspection, "I'd like that."

His story of what he had surmised in his youth was not all that different from her own domestic visions. But their whims and will had demanded a life uncommon, and those well-trammeled routes had been left behind.

"It might have been a nice future still, but a more constricting one to be certain."

Kella's attentions departed to wade through images she had drawn up in eras past. Images of what she thought her life would grow into. Then the Elf started undressing and Kella received a swift, metaphysical kick to her sternum, jettisoning her back into the present.

She was caught between the reflexive response to blush and mutter something inane about the price of turnips, and the desire to admire openly and praise the gods aloud for their blessings. This inward struggle resulted in a blink or two and an even expression. It was a little obvious she was trying to look only at his face, but the gesture to his scar ended that.

"You were there?" she asked a bit admiringly. His summation of the creature that nearly skewered his heart was answered with a quip.
"I had thought lumbering corpses would be rather cuddly. It seems I must embrace disappointment." Her mouth was off and running before she could stop it. Trying to keep herself from saying anything else, she took a sip of her wine.

Then the rest came off. This time the woman choked on her wine, and coughed daintily into her hand. But Riconus continued as if it was nothing out of the ordinary.

He asked if you wanted go for a swim, just finish your wine and recognize that it's an Elf thing, nothing to fuss over. Plus, you love the water.

"Well then, you coming? There's nothing to be shy about, and the water is perfect."

I wouldn't be shy if I looked like that, either, she mused.

Kella took a breath and smiled warmly.
"If the water is perfect, how could I resist?"

After drinking her wine in two gulps, Kella began to fumble with the ribbons and frustratingly tiny hooks to her bodice.
Trousers, gloves, bodice, shawl, they all amassed in a pile on the dry sand. Until the petite thing stood in her undergarments, not quite as bold as the Elf. A dagger was sheathed around her naked thigh, this was the last accoutrement to fall before the woman lightly stepped into the lapping water.

When the water's surface encircled her small waist, she smiled delightedly and plunged in. It was that first submersion that thrilled her best. The shock to the body, as it was baptized with new sensations.

Her fair, Vagaran skin turned luminous beneath the water, and she glided boldly under the brunt of the waves, until she passed beyond their influence. She bobbed up from the water like an otter, drawing sweet air.
Smiling at some private pleasure, she looked about for Riconus and said a mite breathlessly.
"Splendid idea."

Riconus Xind'ell · February 4, 2008, 09:56 PM

OOC: Sorry for the late post Kella, thought I'd wait for Cam but we'll just move it along

---

Riconus nodded briefly, displaying the slightest of smiles at the mention of his involvement in the Battle of Centripax. "Aye, I was there- it was the first battle I ever commanded soldiers in. The undead, unfortunately, were not quite as cuddly as one might imagine however." remarked Riconus with a sarcastic grin, before hopping into the waters and waiting for Kella.

Obviously, her sense of shame displayed her inexperience in campaigning with a group of men... or perhaps, maybe it proved the exact opposite. Either way, as she made her way in, undergarments intact, Riconus neared closer, if only to give her reason not to be shy or embarrased, regardless whether those efforts were in vain or not. If there was one thing the Syl noblemen could say he truly enjoyed about his new lifestyle, however, it would be the carefree attitude that he tried to apply onto Kella, humoring himself a bit by registering a question that was bound to make his little secret agent far more relaxed or far more uncomfortable.

"You seem a little nervous Kella, no?" commented Riconus with a wry smile and slightly raised right eyebrow. "If I can notice it in you, then surely the drunks in the Portshire taverns will cut through your facade like a knife.

I'm fairly certain that Victoria will be able to seduce men into telling them whatever they want- after all, she lacks any basic conscience and will be able to lure men like flies. But despite your charm and physique, I'm concerned about the confidence you have in yourself... so, why don't you appease those concerns, hmm?"

Riconus neared closer to the shoreline until he was able to stand with the water at waist hieght, arms fluttering to shake off any excess water before crossing them at his chest. "So, perhaps you would care to prove me wrong, and that you truly know how to transform your seduction into information?

I'm thinking of a man named... oh, let's say John Smith, and you want to know where he is. Show me how you would get the information from me." Perhaps Kella was sincerely too innocent to work amongst the drunkards of the city's taverns, and she would refuse the test; it mattered not, for there were plenty of missions in Portshire her skills could be used toward. However, seeing as Riconus was the animated elven Earl that he was, and with all the time in the world, it couldn't hurt to at least see if she was willing to prove her worth for the operation ahead of her.

Mizushin Junzo · February 7, 2008, 06:37 AM

TS: 2nd Cycle of the Month of Optia

Among the surprises the thelyri had on his return to Portshire was the knowledge that it had a new earl, and that the earl was someone who was familiar to him. Though perhaps they might not have been altogether close in the past, Mizushin nonetheless sent a simple note to the new noble's residences.

Secrets :

Mizushin Junzo · February 13, 2008, 10:35 AM

TS: 2nd Cycle of the Month of Optia

Riconus' quick reply came somewhat as a surprise to the thelyri, if one that tended to being more pleasant than not. Regardless, the earl's reply came as a welcome one to the thelyri. At least with Riconus, there would be somewhat less in the way of political shadow play and the need to navigate treacherous waters.

Secrets :

He had some visits yet to make earlier in the day, and he was newly resettled in the city after all. Mizushin sealed the message and would sent it off at first light, giving him some time to attend to the various businesses and with re-familiarizing himself with the city. By all the news, it seemed there was much for him to rediscover.

The Brightening After

It was indeed later in the afternoon that Mizushin found himself approaching the Earl's estate. He found himself rather amused that as of late, he'd been dealing with quite a few scions of nobility, and indeed the very one he was to visit now had not been so when they had last met. Shortly he found himself greeted by guardsmen. He dismounted, but held the reigns. "The seashore, is it?" Hardly surprising, considering the lure of nature. "I shall proceed there then, but..." he patted his mount's side, "I shall take my horse to the stables myself, at least."

He did not take long to do so, but he made sure Feanen was stabled properly before leaving. The scent of the ocean was all around, and the cries of the ocean as it washed on the shore audible in the distance. Even were be blindfolded, he had no doubt that he'd be able to find the sea with scant difficulty. The white sands of the beach was quite more pristine than in most other places in the Empire, and it showed the care that Riconus had for his dwelling place.

Junzo searched for the other elf, walking along the shores. Once he found him, the thelyri would give the other a respectful military bow, that being a nod and curtailed bow of sorts, and said, "Serale. My greetings to the Earl of Portshire, and the most esteemed Commander of the Sapphire Guard." It was polite, but if Riconus managed to pay attention, perhaps there was just a hint of levity in the teleri's greetings.

Riconus Xind'ell · February 15, 2008, 02:54 PM

As was turning into the norm, Riconus was found leaned back in an old but sturdy lawn chair, a half full glass of red wine in his right hand while its bottle was leaned on the chair's back right leg. He wore only a simple white shirt and tanned trousers, of which were almost stained in wine from Riconus' leap, following the sight of Mizushin. The Syl returned the military gesture, but the note of entitlements quickly drew his interjection.

"Now, now, enough with that Commander and Earl stuff. You know that the only thing I expect to be called by you is Riconus. Please, pull up a seat, I hope you don't mind a glass of wine? It's a Vintage Red from Medonia, I think you'll like it."

He dusted off a similar chair adjacent to his, before pouring a second glass of wine. Again, he lounged back, stretching out a bit before getting himself settled in. "By the gods, it's been a long time, hasn't it? How's life been since we last met? I hope Portshire's treating you well?"

Mizushin Junzo · February 15, 2008, 04:20 PM

Junzo smiled politely, a twinkle of amusement in his eyes as he observed the other's reactions to his arrival. "Well, Riconus then." He shook his head and waved his hand away at the offer of the drink, "Thank you for the offer, but I find wine little to my liking. However, I will take the offer of the seat." Junzo moved easily, not at all intimidated by being in the presence of an earl, for the other elf still considered him a friend. It was a bond which could surpass the need for formality.

Taking his seat on the newly dusted chair, though he did not lie on it as Riconus did, Mizushin looked out to sea and enjoyed the view. "It has been a long time, yes. In the company of the Kaldres, I believe?" He glanced over at Riconus as he said this. "Life has been rather interesting. A very teaching experience, truly." He did not expect that he'd get the chance to talk about Portshire so soon, but he supposed it was a good thing.

"As for Portshire, it seems that things are going well. I've been getting myself reacquainted with some old friends and contacts." He shrugged. "Last I was here, there was quite a bit of tension with the guild and the docks." The teleri looked at Riconus, "I'm hoping you don't mind talking about your work and the city. Perhaps you do not wish to discuss such things when trying to relax at home."

Riconus Xind'ell · February 19, 2008, 02:17 PM

"Hmm, in the company of Kaldres, yes. My, hasn't it been a while since I've seen that bloke running around."

Riconus took back a bit of his wine, crossing one leg over the other in a lean despite his companion's more rigid lay on the chair. Quickly though, he waved his hand at the mention of minding city affairs, for it was simply something both individuals, as citizens of Portshire, were likely very much involved in. His appreciation for Mizushin's opinion only sweetened that idea of disussing the fragile politics around town.

"No, it's quite alright, I have no mind against talking about the city. Unfortunately, the same problems we are having now are those which existed the last time you visited. I was not yet in office even, before I learned of the gap between the workers and the wealthy. However, I'm optimistic that I can make the two parties realise they they need eachother more than ever to make Portshire vibrant again."

While the topic of Portshire was at hand, he continued further into something which involved Mizushin. The whereabouts of a certain aedile had been unknown since before his arrival, and while he understood if his friend was uncomfortable talking about it in what was supposed to be a purely relaxing conversation, Riconus figured it was best he ask the questions rather than some unknown soldiers in the Sapphire Guard.

"Speaking of Portshire, I was wondering if you might be able to answer a few things for me, Mizushin. I understand if you have an objection to this line of questions, so please, feel free to voice it and we'll avoid this topic for another brightening. However, there's just something that's been bugging me regarding an investigation, and you may be able to provide some answers for me and the Sapphire Guard.

It has to do with a man named Nicholi, the Senior Aedile of Portshire. He's gone missing and we have very few leads regarding his whereabouts. However, we've been told that you had dinner with him the night of his disappearance... now I hate to pry, Mizushin, but would you be able to tell me what was discussed, or how he was acting that night?"

Mizushin Junzo · February 21, 2008, 10:23 AM

The thelyri almost shook his head at the question. It was something that he'd been tied up in ever since word happened to get out that he was the last person who'd seen the aedile. But that had been over three months ago at the very least. Junzo had the feeling that the elf was dead, in hiding, or captured. A sigh was hammered down and he looked at Riconus as he answered, "The last I saw of him was in the previous season. I'd have thought that if anything could found of him, it'd have already been uncovered." he rubbed his chin thoughtfully for a moment. "It seems we have a rather persistent mystery on our hands."

"I'm sure you've done some checking on your own. And I have already been questioned by others. I have no more information to give you than what I've already told them," the thelyri looked evenly at Riconus as he said this. "The night I saw Nicholi, we talked about the tension within the city. He invited me to assist him in restoring the peace to Portshire, but I declined his offer. His general demeanor was crisp that night, though he did not forget his manners."

The thelyri's memory was clearer now, since the time he'd spent meditating in Daltina, something he was thankful for. "We had dinner, and after receiving some complimentary dessert, he departed. I might call it haste, but I cannot be sure." Finishing his little story, the teleri rubbed his temple lightly before looking back straight at Riconus. "Have you any more questions?"

Ality Vera · February 25, 2008, 09:50 PM

TS: Late brightenings of Summer

Quote:

To My Cousin in law Riconus,

Riconus, your name is not unknown in the depths of Trysvale hence I found the address to your estates. How have you and Rhiannon been? Tis Ality Vera, cousin to dear Rhiannon-- I have lost touch with her for a long time now, ever since I hit my head and lost my memories, leading to a roaming of the Empire for two eras... Long story short, I've been trying to reach my cousin but my letters have returned unanswered. I would not have written to you otherwise, for we've met just once. I am in need however of your help. A family of dwarves is after my life. I am in need of the help of a few good men, perhaps a few bodyguards for my limbs are scrawny and I can't wield a weapon of any sort... Yet I've more enemies than I've fingers and toes. I wish to be able to meet my cousin soon, perhaps have tea with my cousin-in-law... Now dear sir, if you have the resources to spare, please help poor Ality.

Signed, my regards to my fair cousin Rhiannon,
Ality Vera
The Nymph's Haven
Trysvale

Riconus Xind'ell · February 26, 2008, 01:55 PM

Riconus nodded his head and accepted Mizushin's responses with a smile. It was a nasty matter, the disappearance of that aedile, but simple necessity dictated that such an investigation be made. He hoped with that put aside, they could return to a more pleasant conversation.

"Yes, thank you for your help, Mizushin. I feel aweful talking about such horrid things like that while out here on the relaxing beachfront. Thus, I hope we can return to talking about the easier things in life.

So, do you plan on staying in Portshire long? What plans do you have while here, and is there anything I can do to make your stay any easier, or longer?"

Ality Vera · February 26, 2008, 06:13 PM

First brightenings of autumn

A few brightenings after Riconus' letter reached Miss Vera's hands, a second letter from Trysvale arrived for the earl's estates, addressed to the Earl himself. The letter had signs of crinkling and ink blots-- the culprit, large splatters of fat teardrops.

Quote:

Dear Riconus,

No you can not believe the words of others for I know my cousin to be romantic and true to the one she loves-- I know her better than I know myself... She has waited for you for a lifetime, if not she would not have married you. I rather believe her to be dead than to have ran away with another man! Though it pains me too much to learn of her disappearance regardless... until I see a body, I will just make myself believe her to be kidnapped-- perhaps it is because you are an earl of Portshire you've made enemies? It pains me so to learn of this... too much for words. *tear drops, ink stains, smudges*

And yes if you have the time, please come visit your cousin-in-law. My farmlands have been seized yet I was lucky enough to have a hag bestow a shoppe upon me-- long story-- a lingerie shoppe. I've four apartments-- I know it is nothing compared to a villa but hopefully you will not mind. I will be in Trysvale for the first month of autumn and I know my duty now is to first get rid of the murderous dwarves and my various enemies wishing to skin me alive and then help find my cousin or help with her "funeral." Please allow me to do so for Rhiannon is/was the last of my family on these realms.

Sincerely,
Ality