[Thanal Manor] Recognizing the Brave

[Riconus Xind'ell]

19th Brightening of the First Cycle in the Month of Cryxatum, 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
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After an enjoyable stride into the western quadrant of the city, Riconus and his band of a dozen or so guardsmen arrived at the steps of the Thanal Manor. It was no doubt an impressive manor, but the Syl'rosyan general certainly could not afford to waste time admiring the awe that was the architecture of Primus Gaudeo. After only a short time, the manor's perimeter was met. All but two of the legionnaires escorting his travels stood a vigilant guard outside the manor, while the other select duo followed their commander onward.

It was only after meeting any of the soldiers or servants walking the grounds that their advance was halted, and direction was requested in order to find Thane Elsdragon. Riconus offered a warm smile and nod to the individual, before one of the guards stepped in front of him to state their purpose.

"Provost Imperatis Riconus Xind'ell, Grand General of the Western Armies, seeks an audience with Lord Keldon Elsdragon, Thane of Primus Gaudeo, regarding the conduct of Provost Darius Drake during the Battle of Paxia. If you would be so kind, please inform the thane of our presence."

[Keldon Elsdragon]

The guards at the gate saluted and nodded there head sharply. "Yes sir," one quickly stated and moved inside the compound to fetch the thane. The remaining guard motioned for the commander and his enterouge to follow him to the main manor.

Once inside the house Keldon was standing there wearing platemail armor baring the seal of Primus Gaudeo a sword seethed on his waste. Keldon bowed deeply as required by his position as Thane however once the bow lifted he brought up a salute. "Welcome to my home Provost Imperatis Riconus Xind'ell," he said with a smile releasing his salute and moving towards the man to extend his hand in greetings.

[Riconus Xind'ell]

OOC: sorry for the late reply, been busy as hell lately.
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Riconus returned the salute of the thane, who appeared to be a commander more than a politician, yet still, he followed Keldon into whatever more suitable conversing quarters were allowed before he called for his men to stand down outside the room. It was done so with the motion of his hand rather than through verbal communication, to allow Riconus to proceed with the purpose of his visit in Primus Gaudeo.

"It is a pleasure to meet you, Thane Elsdragon.'

I understand that you have taken quite the liking to a Provost within the Imperial Legions, going by the name of Darius Drake. If what you said was true about him, his chivalrous actions would definately warrant such honors.

Is Provost Drake available for us to meet this brightening, or was he slain during the battle? And perhaps you can discuss in further detail what exactly transpired in his struggle against the orcs?"

[Keldon Elsdragon]

Keldon grinned at Riconus statement and nodded as he moved towards his office to take a seat behind his desk. "Please have a seat, can I get you something to drink?" He asked, if so he would not sit down right away and would fetch something from the bar near the desk. Otherwise he would take a seat. A smile coming to his face "I am not sure if I have taken such a liking to him, however when on the battlefield he panicked and was ready to relive himself of command and transfer it to me. Wherein he officially did, but that is because I did not want him to take the shame if Paxia fell and none where left but the odd person, then the blame for the loss of life would rest on my memory and not his..." Keldon nodded

"However after a conversation he able to face the fear of what was going on outside and lead his men in the protection of the Citadel and those within it. He fought well, side by side with his men. In truth all those in the legions that fought within those walls deserve a medal... if it was upto me once the city is reclaimed a statue would be erected not only for the Imperials who lost there lives, but the commoners who stood side by side with the cities and imperials military force to defend themselves..." Keldon grinned and leaned back into his chair. "From last accounts the Provost was still with the Imperial Forces outside Paxia when I left for Alleria Prime to apply for Governor of Centripax. He was with his men, I am not sure where he now no likely in command of those who are left alive in the legion. Unless his forces have been re-enforced and his superior replaced...."

[Riconus Xind'ell]

Riconus took a seat within the thane's chambers, and listened to the story of the Provost. It was perhaps to be somewhat expected for a high-ranking military official not to have exactly the best standing with a politician, but such bravery displayed was enough to make any two men allies. Riconus agreed with the idea of awarding each legionnaire with medals and erecting a statue in memorial to their fallen comrades, but unfortunately, money and honor could only be spread out to so many people in the Empire.

"The bravery displayed by Provost Drake is certainly commendable, and I'll certainly look into putting his name down as a candidate to receive a medal of bravery. I would like nothing more than for others to receive that decoration as well, but unfortunately, it would be impossible to award all those who gave their lives for the Empire. Accounting for the individuals of that battle would take a significant deal of time, and the Imperial Legions are looking for their heroes now.

I will have to look into finding the provost and his men, wherever they may be. I imagine that his unit is slowly swelling with new troops, and his commanders are adding up with every breath. I'm hoping that after his term of service in the Legions is over, he might be interested in employment with the Sapphire Guard- it's a militia of everday civilians and professional soldiers alike, all looking to promote peace within our lands; obviously, a man of Provost Drake's caliber would be a role model for the soldiers of the Guard."

[Keldon Elsdragon]

Keldon nodded his head "Perhaps one day the Imperial Legions will see me among there ranks. But for now I think I shall remain behind these walls and serve the Empire in my own way." Keldon said with a smirk. "So tell me about the Sapphire Guard."

[Riconus Xind'ell]

Riconus was curious at the indication that the thane might one day don the suit of an Imperial Legionnaire, and his intent to serve his Empire in yet another way was certainly an exhibition of his good character. Still, it might be for that reason that the role of the Sapphire Guard had to be explained carefully; for some people, especially those as devoted to their work as Keldon, might see the line between a united people's army and a horde of nomadic bandits as very fine, when it came to the Sapphire Guard.

"The Sapphire Guard was created by a group of concerned citizens, no longer feeling safe under the protection of provincial or imperial forces. It was first established following the occupation of Paxia, where thousands of routed citizens witnessed first-hand, that often the only people they have to rely on is themselves.

Now, what was once fifty or so vigilantes standing up for their homeland and loved ones, has transformed into an organized militia of more than 2,000 soldiers, and has alliances with several political and military factions all over Arium province. It's my hope that once the orcs are driven from Paxia - and rest assured, they will be driven out - we can focus on the other cancers of our Empire, such as the vile people in Hon'elgg, for instance. A second army within the Sapphire Guard is already being raised in Syl'rosya, where talented swordsmen and cavaliers can be trained to strike at their hated vysticchi enemies.

I don't suppose you might agree with their ideologies in some way?"

[Keldon Elsdragon]

Keldon nodded slowly and listened to what the General had to say, although he quirked his brow at several parts but remained silent during the speech. "I must say, it is surprising to hear an Imperial as high as yourself being a member of an organization that was founded because they were concerned about no longer being safe under the Imperial Military's protection.." he said slightly cautiously but shrugged.

"I have no doubt that Paxia will be reclaimed, although the need for a militia force outside that of the local, provincial and imperial structure alludes me. But if it is needed then perhaps it would be best." he said with a brief nod. Although a he was becoming slightly curious. "To whom would this force be answerable to, and what type of citizens does the force embrace into it's fold?

[Riconus Xind'ell]

A subtle smile peaked from between Riconus’ lips, at the notion that he may in any way be linked to the Sapphire Guard. Of coarse, he would never admit such an affiliation, for it might send a negative message regarding the stability of the Imperial Forum… that is, at least for now, while the Guard still battles through the growing pains of being a civilian militia. Keldon was obviously intelligent enough to understand that Riconus was more than a distant admirer of the SG, yet still, it had to be made clear that the tall Syl’rosyan in no way supported or condemned their actions, even if only for the record.

“Well, Lord Elsdragon, I would not quite call myself a member of the Guard just yet. True, these people initially formed their militia on my lands, but it had more to do with their desperation for protection rather than what estate they agreed to construct their defense on. Perhaps if there were others in Arium Province who welcomed the idea of opening their property to these poor refugees, they’re formation would have been elsewhere…

Perhaps if I had some sort of jurisdiction over the Arium Legions, I could find a bridge so that these citizens could work together with them in harmony. But alas, I do not have such jurisdiction, and am forced to simply observe the events taking place. I would suppose though, that these soldiers would only be answerable to those that require their attention most. Those I know in the Sapphire Guard’s hierarchy seem more than capable of suppressing the rage of the people when necessary, but they will know when the time for their defense if necessary.

As for the citizens it embraces, well, I suppose they would accept anyone willing to defend themselves. Many I have witnessed in the camp appear to be forgotten men; the poor and the damned, joining in the hope of giving meaning to their tattered lives. Most, however, seem to be simple working-class individuals, taking a few candlemarks out of their cycle to learn how to fight for their families should the need occur; and rest assured, the need may very well occur, considering the various threats in their province.

You seem to be very interested in the Sapphire Guard, Lord Keldon. Perhaps if you would enjoy it, I could arrange for you to visit my estate, so that you may meet some of these extraordinary people?”

[Keldon Elsdragon]

Keldon paused and thought a moment. "Tell me Imperatis Xind'ell, if you allow such actions to take part on your lands, and seem to know details in regards to there operations. As a senior officers in the Empire Army is it not your duty to enforce the laws of the empire where the local forces fail to do so?" He said rubbing his chin slightly. "Arium is a ficky place, and the prospect of an... illegal army being raised there and from your own mouth in the Syl'rosya boarders aswel brings something of a concern to my mind. Perhaps they are only citizens and regular men wanting to defend there homes... however that is why we have local forces is it not.. and why the operations of a private army is illegal in the empire if I recall... so please forgive me when I am slightly surprised by the notion the commander of the entire western armies allows such things to take place on there own land."

Wondering why the man before him did not extend in some way an offering to the men and women to enlist into the Imperial ranks to boaster there own forces and offer protection throughout the province. As to the Lord Thane appears to be the reason why if was created. Or perhaps the Provincial Military.

"However, what you decide to operate on your own land's is of your own accord. It would be interesting to meet these people you speak of and what there goals are, and just how they wish to help the empire from there own perspective."

[Riconus Xind'ell]

Riconus understood Keldon’s concerns regarding the possibility of an illegal army forming on the general’s own front lawn, but for better or for worse, the act of controlling such operations were out of his control, as he would explain to the thane.

“Unfortunately, Arkahn Tha’lashar, the Minister of War, relishes the fact that I even control what’s mine on the Western Front, as it stands. To him, he would rather see his citizens go restless without supervision than allow me that slightest degree of authority outside my own jurisdiction. Arium Province is simply not in my control, and I do not intend to give the Minister further reason to reprimand me simply because I was trying to quell people that are not under my Imperial command. It sounds ridiculous, yes? That is because it is, but unfortunately, there is nothing I can do about it.

Arium, as you said, is a quite unstable region of the Empire as it were. It is for that reason that the people there believe they cannot trust the forces meant to protect them; for the Imperial forces are ravaged by defeat in Paxia, and local forces have become so incredibly corrupted by the bribery of gangs and bandits. While I sympathize with these citizens’ position and frequently communicate with them, it is still only because they are on my lands, as refugees of both war and famine.

If I was instructed by the Imperial Forum to release these people from my lands as a way of disbanding this organization, I would certainly have no choice but to do so. However, those orders would be executed with a heavy heart, for these people do not deserve to be thrown into the Highlands just because the Crown is afraid they might be able to actually defend themselves, as I’m sure you can understand.

Still, I’m glad to hear you’ve accepted the idea of visiting my lands there. Do you have any specific preference as to when you would like to join us?”

[Keldon Elsdragon]

A sigh released a heavy sigh, he was becoming concerned that the Empire was more concerned with boarders and who had the power to do something in what area when the fact of the matter came down to what needed to be done regardless of the location. The Imperial Government was meant to be a body of power that resided anywhere in the Empire regardless of location or province. Which seemed fruitless to say the least. Although he was aware the Lord did have Imperial power in a way even on his own lands it was not something he was going to bring up.

A smirk came to his face, 'Perhaps the Empire required a new Minister of War then?' he thought to himself, although not the words he uttered. "Well, Military Politics was something that always interested me... alongside with Imperial Service..." he said, in his own way rewording the fact that perhaps he would be one day interested in such a position where he could make changes against the concerns of the General before him. "My arriavl to your estate would need to be when I have time from my duties here in Primus Gaudeo, which are numerous. It takes much more time then I thought to run one of the largest cities in the empire. Even more so when the Governor of the province has little to do with her duties and what seems to be other obligations..." He said sharply, being rather blunt about the remark but thought little of it given who was in his company. "I do not think it is something you would need to force the people into the wilderness General. However Paxia will be reclaimed, and it will be rebuilt. By either the local government, the provincial, or Imperial. That my good sir is something I can firmly state as if no party should attempt to make it so. I will do it from my own personal accord and funds." He said with another sigh when he thought about the remark of the crown however he held his lips closed to the idea going through his head.

"The provincial government and the local are in dire need for a swift kick in there backsides as a reminder for the empire they serve and not there own interests." He again said sharply. "Although the Crown would have any right to be concerned about any force in the Empire that would even consider defending itself against its might. Because that, even the notion of. Is treason General." he raised his hand slightly with a smirk. "Perhaps come fall... or winter when business here dies down I would find a spare time to visit with your men and those on your lands."

[Keldon Elsdragon]

Important Note

Posting will halt hence force for Keldon Elsdragon in this thread as I will be unable to access the internet for a unknown amount of time. My expected return date is not clear however I am aiming for no longer then a month if possible.

I look forward to the role-play when I return, hopefully the thread is not one of those pesky old grandfathered ones from ages ago when I get back. If you need me send me a e-mail at canadianfrodo AT hotmail.com and I will respond A.S.A.P.

-Derek

[Riconus Xind'ell]

OOC: Well, as soon as you're able to return to RPing in Aelyria, be sure to PM me and we can get to your little tour of the Sapphire Fields. Safe Journeys

Yours,
Ricky

[Keldon Elsdragon]

OOC: Its your reply Riconus, once this threads wrapped up ill come visit your guard.