[Thanal Office] - Honor, Justice, Duty, Paladinship (Private, Selene)

Keldon Elsdragon · January 25, 2007, 09:06 PM

First Brightening of the First Cycle in the Month of Aperitus in the Season of Spring; Era I of the Celestine Mandate, Era XIII Post Fractum. The First Era of the Regency of Milo L'Evienne.

Inside the Hall of the Thane sat Keldon Elsdragon in his office, going about his daily work with all the love and passion he had inside him. Several people came in and out of the office on regular intervals. Many of them were pages and scribes, the odd time a official from a governmental department. However the Thane would once in awhile leave the office to goto another office for a meeting.

At the desk a 'youthful' dwarf was sitting waiting for visitors to tell them to go away, or to tell them that the thane would be with them shortly depending if they had made a appointment or if the Thane had time.

Minerva · January 31, 2007, 02:42 PM

The dwarf was perhaps not expecting one as graceful and austere as the woman to enter the office of the Thane now, but enter she did. Garbed in silver plate mail which was presumably heavy but fitted her slim figure like a glove, the lady cut an imposing yet elegant figure, walking with a purpose and fluidity to her strides. Flowing out behind her was the pale green of a cloak, adorned at the back with the mark of Natura’s paladin order, the Silver Stars, and lined with a silver to match untainted hue of her array. The clasp of her cloak also held the emblem, clearly marking the lady as one of faith and conviction, with the power to do what was needed to protect those in need, and to combat those sinister forces of evil.

Perhaps in her young to middle years, the woman’s countenance was pleasant, if experienced. She had witnessed a lot in her time as a paladin, after all, and such a thing showed clearly within the pallid blue orbs of her eyes. Her hair was a dark brown, and cropped short, at level with her chin. As she asserted her gaze upon the presumed receptionist, the lady’s lips curved into the slightest of smiles. It was her show of politeness to him, and was followed by words spoken in an equally courteous tone. After all, one never got anywhere through acts of brash rudeness alone. As she spoke, it seemed as though a faint aura of a glow hung about the woman’s form…not quite palpable, and barely distinguishable from the glint of sunlight, there was no denying the holiness of this one as she looked upon the young dwarven now.

“Serale. I am here for an appointment with the Thane. I believe he will be happy to see me…My name is Alanya Elvere, of the Silver Stars of Natura.”

So, the author of the letter had come in person to pay a visit to Thane Elsdragon of Primus Gaudeo. Something that he would be happy to hear of, perhaps.

Keldon Elsdragon · January 31, 2007, 05:51 PM

The 'young' and scruffy dwarven female perked up as Alanya entered the office, she was told be Keldon to expect a envoy from Natura's Paladin and to inform him of her arrival the moment she arrived. "Serale Lady Elvere!" She said with a warm welcoming smile, a little eager aswel. As she almost leaped out of her chair looking through some of her papers in a attempt to located the Thanes present location which was likely a rather vague location at that. She was noticing Keldon had a rather persistent habit of 'dropping' by various office's of the city to ask a question or two, or to discuss something.

She started to jot a quick brief note for her lord on the parchment in front of her smiling to Alanya it was a simple note informing him of the ladies arrival and the name, or perhaps a very vague variation of her name that she recalled from the letter she dispersed to the Thane, and the random guess in its spelling as she spoke her name. Looking down to the parchment then back upto the Paladin she moved around from her desk to the doorway into the Thanes Office and opened them. "His Grace is presently in a meeting with the Concordians however I shall inform him of your presence and I doubt you will have to wait to long for his arrival, milady."

After showing her into the office she would quickly disappear into the main lobby and give the message to a messenger that would likely sprint around the Concordia Incola in search of his lordship, as many of them were doing lately, so many offices sent out so many communications these young lads who had this grusum duty were speedy little buggers and Keldon enjoyed just standing and watching them violently hurral there bodies around the building with this and that in there hand.

It was only a short time before Keldon entered his office, a very well tailored and cut suit adorning his body, today he wore a white suit almost perfectly white, his silk shirt was a gentle green hue that complemented the white, almost as if his arms were evergreen trees reaching out of the snow in there defiance to give into the winters dreadful effects on the wildlife at times. The fabric around his arms was loose and hid the true strength that rested in his arms, however the doublet, fitted snugly and was a testament to the size of Keldon, especially for a Elf the muscle under the shirt was rather obvious. Although his pants covered up another portion of his strength same as the shirt. Like the pants and doublet the boots was a perfect snowy white, Keldon was lucky this brightening to not have a smudge on any of it yet. "Serale Lady Elvere, I welcome you to the Concordia Incola and Primus Gaudeo. It is a pleasure to have you grace my office." He said with a soft warm smile, his sky blue eyes looking into the eyes of the Paladin ."I will admit I did not expect you to arrive yourself, however I am most greatful." Again he spoke with a warm, uplifting voice as he came closer to her he bowed his head slightly and extended his hand in greeting. "Would you care for something to drink?"

Minerva · February 3, 2007, 04:16 PM

The paladin had no qualms about having to wait, and this itself did not happen to last for a long period of time, in any case. When presented with the sight of the city’s Lord Thane, Alyana rose from her seat to bow, the more feminine curtsey not being all that practical in the attire she wore, and not very elegant, either. In any case it was a symbol of her respect, and testament to the fact that she knew courtesy and politeness, and was very well acquainted with both.

When Keldon spoke to her, and extended his hand, the paladin took it with good grace. Whilst not quite as dainty or delicate as ladies of the court, or those from incredibly well-bred or cultured households, Alyana nevertheless had a certain something to her…There was no denying the power that was there, surely, but there was a lightness to her touch, too- a softness which came from patterns of dedication to the gods, and to doing good, committing righteous acts in their names.

“It is my pleasure to be here, Your Grace.” The lady spoke in reply, her voice laced with calm, and soothing in composure as the words were issued forth. “I would have a drink, if it is not too much trouble. Do you have any elfin black tea?”

In Natura, such had become an immensely popular drink indeed and, given the Lord Thane’s heritage here, she did not suppose he went too often without, either. In any case this was simply the more relaxed part of what would essentially be the bulk of their conversation…trivialities which came at the forefront of discussion, to form a more casual gradient leading into the thing itself.

Keldon Elsdragon · February 3, 2007, 04:28 PM

Keldon smiled as Alyana touched his hand, he did however grip it with a little more strength then he would a normal person, it was borderline a shake of comradely between two fellow warriors. However he did not take it to that extent. When she asked for elfin black tea he smiled and nodded. "I do believe I have enough for two cup's m'lady, and by all means take a seat near the fire. The chairs are far more comfortable then that of those infront of my desk."

It only took a rather minor amount of time for Keldon to pour two cups of elfin tea and carry them over to the fireplace, handing one to Alyana he took a brief sip of his own and placed it down on the small table between them, taking his own seat he leaned backwards. "So where shall be begin Alyana, it is not everyday I seek such a membership and am not fermiller with the process." He said with a soft smile,

Minerva · February 9, 2007, 04:56 PM

Alyana did not make herself comfortable in the usual way of doing things. She did not choose to lean back in her seat as Keldon did, nor did she adapt her pose to accommodate any other typical means of relaxation. She remained poised, and alert, though elegant nonetheless…It was something of a strange sight to behold, really. Clad in all her shimmering armour like that, the paladin cut an impressive figure, and yet her grace still remained, both in her overall form and in more delicate expressions, too. The way she accepted the cup of tea, for instance, and then held it to her mouth as though to sip.

Listening to Keldon’s words, the woman responded to them with a light smile all her own, canting her head softly to one side as she deigned to answer him with mottled amusement and an air of continued cool.

“And it is not everyday we gain the interests of one as influential as yourself, Your Grace.” Her words came, before she took another taste of her elfin tea, and proceeded to address the main bulk of what it was he had said. “I am not altogether certain that the term “membership” really fit’s the nature of our Order…More than that, anyone wishing to become a Silver Star must first prove themselves worthy and able, both in skill with certain weaponry, holy magic, and of course in the way they live there lives. Their disposition, their moral code, their actions and what drives their commitment to such things.”

Another pause came then as the tea was sipped once more, before the cup was lowered gently to rest within her lap, and the lady continued, starting this time around with a query, instead. “Do you understand, Your Grace? It has been some time now since I have been called upon to hold a discussion such as this, and I fear I may have become somewhat rusty in my time away.” She smiled, the curve of her mouth somewhat greater than what it had been before. Then, it was simply her turn to wait, and to see how the city’s Lord Thane would respond.

Keldon Elsdragon · February 9, 2007, 06:16 PM

Keldon lacked the blessing of a god, or the sheer amount of faith the paladin in front of him held towards her deity. However he did hold a aura of strength, honor, and dedication around him. Or atleast that is how most of the world would first come to see him, perhaps that is what made him so attractive to women, or other means. However as the Paladin spoke he gently nodded his head with a smile. "My sincere apologies Lady Alyana, I shall rephrase to a different term which would suit what I meant far better. It is not everyday that I pursue this type of path in my life, one that will alter the direction of my life in this plane." He sipped his own tea for a brief moment. "A Paladin to many are those who prey to a god of upstanding society and wield a weapon. However they are so much more, I strive to protect those who can not protect themselves and be a pinical of strength for all those around me. Although at times I admit I falter from that path to accommodate someones dire needs." Nodding his head he smiled again.

"Please, address me as equals. Keldon will suit nicely if you wish. In our society I am a Thane, a figure of authority and I would have chosen to follow this path regardless. Circumstance has placed me in this role, but I still wish to do what has always been a driving force in my life, and that is the service to the people to make there lives better in every way I can. But no need to concern yourself with a touch of rust milady. After all that small spec of rust can be repaired but the experience that comes with it will always remain." He said briefly referring to the experiences you gain through life, even if hidden by mask's of beauty, nobility, or at that, poverty.

Minerva · February 14, 2007, 02:17 PM

Well, at least he was humble. Always a good sign, especially when with regards to one of the faith. Words did not often speak louder than actions and deeds, however, in spite of the fact that this man was socially upstanding as a Thane. Perhaps he would not need to be tested as much as any old fledgling to their cause, but he would need to be tested nevertheless, and that was where training came in, as well as the crux of this discussion. Still smiling as she took another graceful sip of her tea, the woman replied with a nod at first, followed immediately on by softly spoken words of cordiality, and calm.

“Your heart certainly seems to be good, Keldon, and such is a good sign. We are not so selective or elitist with allowing people into our order, however. You would simply need to go through the training and teachings required in order to take your final test, and gain your title as a paladin of Natura.” She informed him, before raising the cup to her lips once more, and partaking of the warm drink still lingering inside.

“There is a lot I could tell you, in all honesty, Keldon, and I am not wholly certain where would be a good place to begin. Perhaps…is there anything you would like to ask of me? I am sure there must be a great deal you wish to know.” So saying she paused, and waited, holding the cup in both hands over her lap as she awaited the other’s reply.

Keldon Elsdragon · February 18, 2007, 01:45 PM

Keldon nodded his head and smiled. "Well how long would the tests take? I would not normally say this however I would not want to be absent from Primus Gaudeo to long, as my duties here are rather important to the city, and to the people. This position gives me a ability to help those who are in need, and my absence from it for to long of a time could negatively effect the people. Which is something I would not want have happen." Keldon said with a soft smile, but his face was slightly concerned however he smiled again removing the concern from his face.

"However I am also curious to know, would becoming a Paladin of Natura effect my position. Meaning would I have to remove myself from the city and locate myself in Natura?"

Minerva · February 21, 2007, 03:28 PM

“The tests you will need to take come at the end of your training, and it is through these that you will prove your heart is pure, noble, and kind. How long they will take depends on exactly what your tests will come to be…We find that it can sometimes be different from person to person, with regards to circumstances, and how long they will take to complete- if completed at all- can therefore vary, as a result.” The paladin replied initially to Keldon’s words, before her lips were called to the cup once more, as though being parted had been too much for them to take. The elves made good tea, that much was for sure, in spite of the fact that they were not quite as bitter or strong as other well favoured brands.

“I will say to you now that we do not expect you linger with us for all of your time in training, before the tests. You have a duty to this city, after all, and we of the Silver Stars respect that, and have little desire to keep you from it. You will, however, need to visit us from time to time, so that we might judge your progress. You will also need to be in Natura for your test. As far as the training goes, it is possible we can assign you with a teacher here in Primus Gaudeo, though not likely. If need be you will need to travel between our cities for that, as well.”

She had said a lot, and such extended lengths of speech often led one’s throat to becoming dry, and parched. Another gentle sip of her tea soon worked to cure that, however, and Alyana was left able to resolve her sermon with yet more words, to conclude, and to query.

“On the point of training, the Silver Stars favour skill with thaumaturgy, as well as with either the mace, or the sword. Do you have knowledge of any of these, Keldon?”

Keldon Elsdragon · February 25, 2007, 05:13 PM

Keldon nodded his head taking a brief sip of the tea. A smile on his face. "I have been attempting to acquire travel between Primus Gaudeo and Natura through arcanic means however I am not sure when the items that will grant that ability should be ready." He said leaving his tea in his hand resting on his lap.

"However I am versed in the basics of the art of a longsword. Specifically the military style used by the Falcon Legion in Paxia. As thats were my form first began to develop. I have also come to learn the beginning of thaumaturgy through the former teacher in Paxia. Who's life was, unfortunately lost in the siege." Keldon said lowering his head briefly thinking back to that long night of warfare returning his gaze back to Alyana.

Minerva · March 9, 2007, 06:50 PM

“Such items would certainly come into good use.” The paladin nodded her agreement, cordially, returning Keldon’s smile with a soft one of her own before allowing the gesture to fade, in deliberation of what was next to be said. By now she had all but finished her tea, and the cup lay rested within the space of her lap as she held it within the curve of one hand, and the forefingers of the next. It had been a good brew…Perhaps well worth the journey in itself, were it not for the fact that this meeting was being made to determine a possible new induction into her order…the order of the Silver Stars.

“You are already well on your way to learning the skills required of you, then.” She spoke in response to the Lord Thane’s words concerning training. “In the time it will take you to acquire the arcane means to travel, we can perhaps provide you with a teacher for your swordsmanship. Arcana, however, will be another matter entirely.” Masters of the arcane were rare, after all, and whilst there were many skilled practitioners of the art within Natura’s paladin order, it was much more difficult to find someone able to promote, someone who would be able to find the required amount of time to teach.

She allowed the Lord Thane to dwell on this matter for a time either way, before moving on to shift the topic of conversation unto another route entirely- a path which, consequently enough, ran incredibly close to her heart. “We have spoken much already, and yet have not spoken of a topic bearing great importance to your initiation on a whole. Religion, namely, and where you stand with regards to it.”

Whilst not spoken as a question would normally be, there was that curious edge to it- one of expectance, one that demanded a reply. Or, well, perhaps not so much demanded as asked nicely. Alyana Elvere was a goodly paladin, after all.

Keldon Elsdragon · March 13, 2007, 03:37 PM

Keldon nodded his head to several of the statements. "I did not expect the Arcanic side of the order to be one of ease, nor do I expect the swordsmanship. However it would be a pleasure to welcome a guest of the order to the city to further advance my understanding and knowledge of the blade." Keldon leaned back into his seat, his face taking a gentle serious tone, if there was one.

"Through experiance in life I have come to follow the diety of honor, one that I profoundly believe in, at times even more then I lead myself to believe. Aslan embodys the core values of my life and thus I have chosen to follow that path in this realm."

Nimh · April 26, 2007, 09:45 AM

Alyana inclined her head slightly, fingers grazing her chin with a thoughtful look pulling through blue eyes. "No, nothing about any of this will be of ease," she remarked evenly, the silver plate mail making but a little noise as she dropped her hand back to the cup of tea she sipped on occasion. "If it were, there would be more paladins on Telath, more of us to combat the evils that have plagued us for so long. I have seen many fail and many die, giving their lives to protect what we work hard for."

She paused a moment, then nodded. "We shall make arrangements on a mentor for your swordsmanship. I would have to return to Natura for consultation on who shall be sent. It is always possible that they will decide it best that you study close to them where they can monitor your progress at first. I will keep you notified on the matter."

She frowned, setting the tea cup down and examining Keldon, as if trying to clarify his religious position. "Those values will be challenged, you realize. It comes with doubt. Doubt of will, doubt of courage. Doubt of your diety when betimes we fail in our duties. I hope that you will not be the type to turn your back to Aslan when times are rough, when evil sometimes prevails over the good."

The young woman clasped her hands in front of her, the position nearly pious in appearance...were it not for the direct gleam in her eyes. "You seem honest in your regard to your religion," she concluded with a curt motion of her head. "We do not have a preference as to who our paladins bow their heads to, so long as their study of the Gods is good and wholesome, not tainted by the values of the Aeternians."

At this point, the young woman finished her tea and pushed it aside from her. "Are there other questions you might have for me?"

Keldon Elsdragon · May 20, 2007, 05:44 PM

Keldon nodded his head. "No milady, it is rather straight forward, and yet complicated in its own right. Although I look forward to the challenge."