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Darkseeker
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Plot Carved into the rugged side of a towering mountain, standing tall against the elements and overlooking a vast, dense forest, is the grand and formidable Castle Amadon. The castle, an imposing structure of stone and steel, is the beating heart of the Amadon Kingdom, a dominion steeped in ancient tradition, immense wealth, and a power that has lasted for centuries. Built by the first monarchs of Amadon, the castle’s towering spires seem to pierce the sky itself, a symbol of the kingdom’s unyielding strength and its rulers' iron-fisted control. From the castle’s great walls, one can see the kingdom’s sprawling lands below—dense forests that stretch for miles, valleys that teem with life, and farmlands that provide the sustenance for Amadon’s rich coffers.
The Amadon Kingdom is one of the most prosperous regions in the known world. Its wealth comes from a variety of sources: trade routes that cross its lands, the fertile soil that produces abundant harvests, and the raw materials mined from the mountainsides. Amadon is also home to a powerful military, bolstered by the allegiance of several smaller kingdoms and neighboring territories, each of which recognizes the might of the Amadon crown. These realms, though autonomous in some aspects, are bound by oath and treaty to swear fealty to the King of Amadon, who in turn provides them with protection and access to the kingdom’s vast resources. While many of these smaller realms retain their own local customs, they understand that it is the strength of Amadon that ensures their continued survival in a world full of shifting alliances and treacherous borders.
The lineage of the Amadon royal family has always been the subject of both reverence and intrigue. For centuries, the bloodline has been considered divine, with many claiming that the family’s strength and authority were gifted by the gods themselves. Some of the oldest and most deeply-rooted legends tell of the first monarch’s mother, a woman shrouded in mystery, who was said to have been a witch, drawing her power from arcane sources. The stories are inconsistent and sometimes contradictory, with some suggesting that she was a mere healer, while others claim she could manipulate the elements or commune with spirits.
Despite these tales, the true nature of the royal bloodline’s origins has never been fully revealed. What is known, however, is that the monarchs of Amadon are said to possess abilities passed down through generations, abilities that may one day be used to restore balance to the world. While there has never been any concrete proof of these powers, rumors persist. In taverns and marketplaces, in the quiet corners of great halls and hidden chambers, people whisper of the royal heirs, each one possibly harboring extraordinary gifts. Some believe the powers to be elemental in nature—control over the earth, water, fire, or air—while others believe the powers are more mystical, an unseen force that can alter the fate of the kingdom and beyond.
However, despite centuries of royal reign, no one has ever truly witnessed such powers in action, if they even exist. The bloodline’s divine nature has become a symbol of both awe and skepticism. The common folk, the nobles, and the other rulers of the surrounding kingdoms all share one thing in common: uncertainty. The heirs to the throne are seen as both symbols of immense potential and terrifying uncertainty, their fates intertwined with the very balance of the world. But whether these powers are real or just a story spun to justify the royal family’s dominance remains a mystery that even the most seasoned historians and court magicians cannot explain.
In recent years, the kingdom has found itself on the edge of turmoil. King (Name), the ruler of Amadon, is growing frail. His once-imposing figure now carries the weight of time, his steps slow and labored, and his voice weak. Though the King still commands respect and maintains control over the realm, there are whispers in the royal court and beyond that his days are numbered. With his health failing, the matter of succession has become a pressing concern.
Traditionally, Amadon’s monarchy has adhered to a strict patrilineal system, with male heirs being the only ones considered for the throne. This system has remained unchallenged for centuries, ensuring that the male descendants of the royal family would inherit the crown upon the death of the king. But in recent years, this tradition has begun to fracture. While the princes are good candidates, their sisters rival them in intellect and strength. And now the King’s failure to name a successor has only served to heighten tensions within the castle and across the kingdom. In the court, factions have already begun to form, each one rallying behind different heirs and pushing for their own preferred successor. The King’s failure to name a successor has only served to heighten tensions within the castle and across the kingdom. In the court, factions have already begun to form, each one rallying behind different heirs and pushing for their own preferred successor. While the King’s health declines, the royal family’s struggles have become public knowledge. Many nobles and regional leaders have grown increasingly anxious, fearing that the kingdom’s future will be decided not through law or blood, but by war or rebellion. As the succession crisis deepens, the smaller kingdoms that owe fealty to Amadon begin to stir. Long-standing alliances grow tenuous, and whispers of revolt spread like wildfire. Some of the smaller monarchs, eager to reclaim their independence from Amadon’s grasp, see the looming succession dispute as an opportunity to challenge the kingdom’s power. Other factions within these realms, discontent with the Amadon monarchy’s strict rule, rally behind the idea of independence, hoping to free themselves from what they view as an oppressive overlord. Rebellions are already beginning to form in the outlying regions, fueled by resentment toward the royal family’s rule. A growing sense of dissatisfaction among the common people, paired with the uncertainty surrounding the King’s death, has created a volatile situation. The royal family must not only contend with internal strife but the growing threat of rebellion. In a final effort to avert the chaos that looms on the horizon, the King has called upon noble suitors from across his domain. This desperate measure is intended to strengthen the royal bloodline, to secure alliances, and to prevent the kingdom from fracturing. The King has declared that his children—those of the royal family, both male and female—must marry suitors chosen from among the greatest noble families of the kingdom. These unions are meant to secure political ties, ensure loyalty, and unite the fractured factions within the court. However, the move is not without controversy. The King’s traditionalism demands that male heirs are preferred, but in reality, the royal bloodline is more complicated than the simple rules of succession. The royal children, despite the prevailing system, have their own agendas and ambitions. Whether they will accept the suitors chosen for them or attempt to seize the throne by their own means is yet to be seen. As the royal court fills with suitors and rival factions, the kingdom holds its breath. The King’s health continues to decline, and with every passing day, the stability of the realm grows ever more uncertain. The question of who will take the throne and what that will mean for Amadon is now the kingdom’s greatest concern, and its future is hanging in the balance. ................................................................................. Sign Up Thread: Discussion Thread: |
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Darkseeker
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Rules: -
Follow all Sixbears rules -
@Don’t Fear the Reaper is the co-host, they have the right to accept and deny any forms. They can control the King (npc) just like me. Them and I will need to be notified for any plots or ideas, as we like to hear thoughts and ideas. We will also control the setting and weather. -
This is a semi-small roleplay. Only 2 characters per person! No romanticizing with your own characters and you can’t have two heirs or two suitors or just have your characters being romantically involved or siblings. -
350 plus word requirement and this has to reflect on your appearance and personality! -
This roleplay is a medieval and fantasy roleplay. -
Activity is needed. Please participate in the discussion, just as much as the roleplay. -
Reservations will be 48 hours and that is all. -
In other please put your favorite disney movie or character. Character ages will be 18-24 -
Hate the character, not the player! -
No overly sad characters and share the spotlight -
Have Fun! - Dont post for another account or an alt account to reserve a spot. If they or yourself want the spot, they have to reserve it themselves and you have to reserve it on the account you will be using!
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Darkseeker
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Starting Day: Season: Early Spring Weather: Temperature is 65 degrees fahrenheit, it will reach 71 degrees fahrenheit. The day is cloudy and hazy. Time of Day: Morning around 9 am Starting Post: The heirs are waking up feeling anxious or feelings of anger about their new futures. The suitors will be on their way to Amadon preparing for what could happen. The royal guards and handmaidens will be doing their regular duties, but listening to the rumors and whispers of the common folk and the fellows in the castle. The handmaidens will be taking each suitor to their own rooms and telling them to prepare for the event coming later tonight. The heirs and suitors are supposed to formally meet at the masquerade ball as a welcome to the suitors and to set a neutral place for the heirs and suitors to meet. But rebellious ones will mostly meet before the ball. Suitor’s arrival time and rather how long they have been traveling Kalinga The suitor has been traveling for almost a week due to the rough waters. They will be arriving in ports of Drafte. Balice The suitor has been traveling for a day and a half by horseback or horse and carriage. Majority of that time was in the mountains. Hatilly The suitor has been traveling for proximity for 3 days by horseback or horse and carriage. Azule The suitor has been traveling for roughly 4 or 5 days by horseback or horse and carriage. |
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Darkseeker
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Briar Wyndhaven | 20 | Heir | M: Vada (dir.) Briar was laying on her silk bed tossing the pages of an ancient book of Amadon’s traditions and customs from back when the beginning of her bloodline had begun. Not much has changed except for the fact, no magic was allowed in the kingdoms. Though she knew it was still a rule for the kingdom and it resulted in treason. Her three siblings and herself were considered criminals in the eyes of Amadon. A very hypocritical law for Amadon to flaunt around to the kingdoms, when they were harboring fugitives. Fugitives that one of them will be taking the throne to rule over all of Eldaron. Her nightgown was wrinkled from her tossing and turning through the night with her barely having a wink of sleep. Her anxiety and anger was relevant due to her father’s decision of proposals: marriage to strengthen the alliances between the other surrounding kingdoms. A political scheme to keep Amadon on top of the other royaling factions, something Briar understood from studying the political schemes of the royal council. But her moral compass loathed it as it barred her from finding actual love in this poisonous realm. She was stuck with two men, a way that disgusted her to her heart. A life that was destined to be bearing more heirs for a throne that should be torched and get rid of. Just to be a legend for centuries after this fatal concept, a ridiculous concept that needs to be hidden away. Briar sometimes would find herself jealous of the common folk, as they only worry about survival. But they get to choose their love stories without making the wrong choice that could disrupt the realm. Though she felt guilty every time, she left her mind wondering that far. Her racing thoughts were interrupted at the sound of soft knocking for a small female with a tray in her hands to appear. She heard the faint voice of Vada, the handmaiden speak out, “Princess, I have your breakfast ready. I will set it out for you whenever you feel up to getting up.” Briar was about to respond with a thank you, but she heard Vada’s footsteps fade away outside of her room with the sound of her door being shut softly. Briar fell backwards on her bed trying to regather her thoughts to be more positive for the rest of the day. A loud screech was heard causing Briar to jolt with a fright. A soft smile displayed on her face, she realized that her falcon Darcius was ready for day flight. She hurriedly leapt out of bed going to his perch as she gently glided her hand down his nimble body. “Darcius, you impatient bird..” Briar opened her window with harsh push watching the majestic falcon jump out the window letting his large wings carry him with ease. She went to her bedroom door, opening it to show that she was awake that anyone could enter as she quickly got dressed into a green dress and put her diadem on her head. She carefully sat at her table beginning to eat her breakfast listening to the bird sing welcoming the new season of spring arrival to Eldaron. A soft purr was heard as she looked down at the bobcat cub at her feet. Lili, a bobcat cub that Briar found during the late fall outside in Amadon gardens curled up in a ball in a deceased flower bed of lilies. She tossed down a piece of sausage off her plate. Briar waited for anyone else to disturb her morning as she knew it would come eventually. She was avoiding her father who was most likely preparing for the suitors and making sure the ballroom was ready for the ball tonight. Briar for the first time would rather sit in her room all day and avoid everyone. Though she knew it would not turn out to be in her favor this time. |
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Neutral
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Anastasia "Kova" Volkova | M | 22 | Balice Suitor | M: Basille [NPC] (dir.), William [NPC] (dir.), King Sebastian (ind.), The Heirs (ind.). ~ Anastasia had never minded his trips to Amadon before. Baalwit had always been a gorgeous place that, although his escorts be unaware, he loved crossing. He'd been before, on routine diplomacy meetings his parents regularly dragged him to and then threw him in a palace by himself, not bothering to monitor him, or tagging along on trips to sell furs, and exchange goods, which his people seemed to find odd due to his rank, but appreciated the help nonetheless. He'd also crossed the mountains to visit smaller towns like Scathe and Razaviv, the former having been both pleasant and unpleasant in ways he didn't like to remember. However, Kildren, his steed, was well-behaved and formally trained, and his main servant, Basille, was good company, when he decided to shut up and not ramble on. - Anastasia was never good with small talk. He would tell Basille to shut his mouth, but he had no good reasoning, and although he could be annoying, Ana quite liked Basille. - "What do you presume the heirs will be like, my sir?" Basille inquired, his eyes trained on the distant form of Dunes to the west of them. It would be likely less than half a day before they reached, and yet he felt it had already been an eternity wth his peer's - no, acquaintance was a better word - endless rambling. "Do you presume you'll take a liking to any of them?" - He gave a cold, short response. "No." - This was not a lie. He didn't presume he'd like a single one of them. - "Not one? What of the others? Handmaidens, servants, perhaps the king?" - "Bas, why do you ask? You have known me for what I can only assume is a lengthy twelve years. By both our understandings, I like no one." - Basille looked over at him quickly, then glanced back at the small escort behind them, consisting of three of his guards and his secretary, who Anastasia would never admit that he also adored, both with his help on formal documents, which Ana despised, and his company. Basille quickly hushed his voice. "Sire, your mouth!" - He did not make the effort to quiet himself. "Hush, boy. My words are not treason." - Basille sighed, but quieted. - Finally. - So what if he didn't like the king? As long as he didn't voice it, Anastasia didn't see a problem. He wasn't a rebel, but the thought of that decaying, self-centered man ruling over everything he did was almost worse than thinking of his father in the same position - or even his wretched mother. He wasn't even sure if he trusted the throne in his own hands. - He looked down at them. They were shaking. - Anastasia palmed tufts of Kildren's mane, trying to steady the anxiety welling up in his chest. Basille knew nothing of what he felt. No one did, whether they didn't notice, or simply ignored him. And he'd learned well enough that a blank expression is better that showing vulnerability in a world as ruthless as Eldaron. - "William," he called on his secretary, his gaze still trained upon the reins and handfuls of soft mane between his rough fingers. The man was at his side in an instant. - "Could you give me an estimate of how much longer it'll be?" - William knew him well. Anastasia rarely expressed his annoyance with Basille openly, but Will understood well enough that the prince wanted nothing more than silence at all times. He couldn't help the tiny smirk that tugged at the edges of his lips, but he didn't question, as he never did. - "I would say we're quite near, my sir." - Anastasia lifted his head, surprise flickering in his eyes. Well enough, sand was fading into plains, Mount Amadon was looming in the sky, and small dots of the village Vacathia were already in view. How peculiar, he thought, that he'd not notice. - "Thank you, Will." - He swallowed down his emotions once more and took a deep breath, preparing to face the kingdom that would determine his entire future. |
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Neutral
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Zira Ela Lucius | F | 20 | Hatilly Suitor | M: Landow[NPC] (dir), Marian[NPC] (dir), King Sebastian (ind), The Heirs (ind) ... Her hands tugged at the folds of her dress, crinkling the silken fabric. Glancing out the carriage window she frowned at the unfamiliar grassland, her first time outside of Hatilly and she was going to Amadon, how ironic she thought. They had set out early as to arrive within the same time as what was expected of the other suitors. Her father had inisisted, much to her displeasure, Zira didn't want to go in the first place. But here she was, seated opposite her father's aid Landow and her personal attendant Marian. The way her stomach twisted with every bump on the carriage made her even less open to conversation, not only was everything new but she felt the pressure of the role she had to play looming over her shoulder like some grand catastrophy. "My lady, are you alright? You look pale, would some water help" Marian voiced softly from beside her. Zira glanced at the woman, while she didn't exactly dislike her there was still so much distrust. Her father had picked the attendant rather than letting her choose one herself, so he could keep track of her most likely. She felt the bitter taste on her tongue looking at the woman, so she shook her head and turned back to the window. She cared not for how that made the woman feel, only frowning at the sigh from the man opposite her, a clear sign of his quiet judgement. The guards that rode outside the carriage seemed content enough, chatting idly as the rode. She envied them, her request to ride her mother's horse had been shot down the second she voiced it. Her father shouting loud enough the servants had trembled, he'd slapped her wrist hard enough she'd almost cried. But that would've only made things worse, Zira rubbed her wrist feeling the lingering ache that throbbed there. At the very least she knew that there would be one familiar face within the palace, her cousin. How long has it been? Zira pondered, a faint smile tugged at her lips, she missed her only friend. Despite the situation surrounding her reason for being there, she was sure he'd be happy to see her, right? "We should be there within half a day, that will put us just before the ball begins. I assume you know what is expected of you by your father as his child, and as a suitor to the royal heirs" Landow scowled at her from across the carriage, she could feel the weight of the older man;s gaze and wanted nothing more than to turn invisable. "Yes, I am aware and will do as is expected of me" Zira monotoned back in a small voice, earning another scowl from her father's aid. "Really, you must learn to speak up child. Otherwise how is anyone to respect you or aknowledge your worth" he grumbled shaking his head. The man knew full well what she was like, having been one of her father's aids in charge of her schooling from a young age. Yet he always seemed to share her father's distaste for her meakness. Zira frowned at the mention of the heirs, she knew little of them aside from the rumors and things she overheard from emmissaries who'd been to Amadon. It wasn't much and she couldn't be sure of the accuracy of those statements as they were likely bias in certain aspects. She could only hope they were better than her own father at least, perhaps she could befriend at least one. It would certainly help her to keep the peace. Zira knows her father expects her to connect with one and use her for his own political gain, something she abhors. But all she wants is to avoid war, and keep people safe. She might not be able to do much but at the very least she could persuade them to stay in good relations with her home, even if her father was greatly annoyed in the process. Zira knew he would likely avoid going to war even if that meant giving up on gaining more power. He was a greedy man sure, but he wasn't stupid. "Surely you must favor one of them, I hear the princes are quite eye catching" mussed Marian blissfully. "How can I do such a thing when I don't even know them?" Zira mumbled degectedly with a frown at the woman. "You must at least choice one Lady Zira, you are meant to marry one after all" Landow scoulded harshly. She shied away, turning herself into the corner against the wall of the carriage. Sad blue gaze reflected back at her as she spotted the first signs of the large city the would prelude the palace, her mind racing on what await her within while the two other voices faded into the background. |
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Darkseeker
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Katriya groaned as she opened her eyes, the sunlight hitting her vision with a teasing, painful brightness. She blinked and heaved herself out of bed, the crown glinting disgustingly on her shelf, reminding her of what was happening today. She hated romance, but would gladly do it for her kingdom. I'll have more one day, she thought. Katriya was secretly hoping for the throne of their dying father, though she knew Dane and Alessi would have better shots at that. She neatly folded her bedsheets into a pristine, undefined lump of fabric and stuffed it under the mattress. The servants and handmaidens would be busy enough without having to tend to her room. She heard the clashing of swords outside and watched the knights train longingly. She knew that even if her father let her be a knight, which chances were low, she would give up on any chance of ruling Amadon. "Miss?" A servant, whose name Katriya did not know, though she had seen her around the palace, was standing at the doorway, looking thoroughly nervous in her wake. Everyone was. "Yes?" Katriya answered, though she already knew the answer based on the laundry basket in the servant's hand. Though she tried to sound as un-intimidating as possible, the sound of her voice had the poor woman shaking in her tattered shoes. "Your laundry, miss." "I'm fine. I've already tended to it," Katriya answered, her gaze flitting back to the window. Just looking out the window, totally no wishful thinking going on here, don't mind me. By some blessing, the servant didn’t seem to notice Katriya's hopeful gaze. "Have you had breakfast, your majesty?" Your majesty. It felt good. She felt... powerful. By the ancient kings of Amadon, focus, Katriya! She wasn't hungry. "Yes." She lied. The servant didn't believe her. She could tell by the skeptical look on her face, though she didn't question her verbally. Funny, she could see any dishonesty as if it were glass, yet she couldn't get away with a simple white lie. The servant stood there akwardly for a few moments, and Katriya gave her a puzzled look. Oh. She was waiting to be given the okay to leave. Katriya waved her hand dismissively, accidentally causing a small breeze outside, and the servant left quicker than needed. She closed the door, drew the curtains, and changed into a simple, cerulean dress. As she exited her room, people seemed to hurry out of her path. She passed Briar's room, door open. She paused for only a moment before continuing her path. Because this may be the only time of freedom she'll get before she is forced to have a man, picked out and approved for her. |
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Neutral
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Alessi Wyndhaven | M | 20 | Fire Heir | M: Other Heirs (ind.), King Sebastian (ind.), The Suitors (ind.), Open. - For Alessi, the previous night had been one of questions- questions that had only built onto the young prince’s vexation regarding the current and upcoming events. Less hadn't always been an insomniac, however, these past few years as an heir to the Kingdom of Amadon had taken its toll… resulting in the few hours he got to sleep every night. The man had gotten maybe two hours of sleep the night before- falling asleep at about four in the morning- and it made sure to leave its mark. Noticeable eyebags hung under the two amber-colored orbs that stared at the carpet-covered floor and the dark hair that rested atop the prince’s head was tousled- the many attempts of moving around to get comfortable apparent. Being awake earlier this morning had given him time to change from his sleep clothes to a pair of white silk pants, a black belt, and a three-piece suit that had been tailored not two days ago. The overcoat was actually quite eye-catching, with small diamonds sewn into the embroidery that resembled vines. Alessi had been staring distantly at nothing in particular for thirty or so minutes, his posture slumped as his tall frame sat on the side of the dark room's king-sized bed, hands brought up to red his head on- hands crossed. The young man's attempt to get his mind off the events occurring later today by letting his mind wander had drastically failed and Less found himself thinking of alone. Masquerade ball. Interact with possible suitors. Suitors. His expression morphed into a scowl as he let out a short scoff, sitting up straight and stretching his arms over his head and ahead of him before standing- walking over to the shelves of books that lined the wall furthest from the room entrance. Suitors and marriage were all the kingdom was talking about now that Less’s siblings and he had come of age. And it was absolutely infuriating. Imagine you’re in a room with a dozen or more people who are only there to speak with you about what your plans are for this whole “event” your father- the King- had set up with a great deal less than your consent. How would that make you feel? Exactly. And that's what Alessi had to deal with more than a few times a day. “Good day, My Leige! Have you any thoughts to express about the suitors that will be arriving tomorrow?” “Prince Alessi! How do you feel about this sudden upbringing about your possible reign?” “I heard that the other kingdom's suitors will be arriving soon- any that have caught your attention?” Good god- it was getting irritating. It was all the maids would talk about while working around the castle and the frequent murmuring of guards followed the young man everywhere he went. No- he didn't want to talk about it. And no, he wasn't excited about anything or anyone arriving at the castle. Nobody had caught his interest (he also might have completely strayed from trying to look into any of the suitors whatsoever-). Alessi would often find himself having to excuse himself from a room if the gossip was getting overbearing or if someone confronted him about anything suitor-related. He was only going along with this for the good of the kingdom… as well as the higher chance that he may be moved to his father's place as King. Alessi wanted nothing to do with any of the suitors, and if one of them did end up being his betrothed, it would be unfortunate if the suitor thought they were getting any sort of affection from him. Alessi’s shoulders were squared his posture straight as he grabbed a book from the finely made wood shelf that carried so many others within it, flipping through the pages that carried maps of faraway lands and language. The young man advanced toward the curtain-covered window of the dimly lit chamber, swiftly pulling one to the side to look down upon the courtyard below. Somewhere between looking back and forth between the old book he held in his hands and the area outside the window, a handmaiden had knocked on the door of the prince's room- he hadn't bothered replying and the young woman had stepped in, speaking quietly as she informed him that his breakfast was ready. Alessi didn't turn to see who the handmaiden was and simply responded with a slow nod. Eventually, the young woman left the prince's quarters and he turned to see what had been presented. He moved towards the desk in which the tray had been placed, pausing a foot or so before simply staring at it for a moment. He wasn't hungry at the moment- there was a soft purr to the young man’s left and he glanced over to see Razi sitting at his side. Alessi blinked and eventually let out a small, deep chuckle in realization. “And I thought you had come over here for something other than my breakfast…. Well alright,” Lifting the top off of the silver platter, Alessi tossed the leopard the bit of string sausage provided. The big cat caught the bundle of meat in his jaws and happily scarfed it down. “At least someone here is content.” Without taking a bite of his own food, Alessi made his way out of his sleeping quarters, shutting the door behind him after Razi slipped out to follow him. The young man started down the castle halls, a hand running through his hair and his shoulders pulled back- probably appearing more put together than he felt…. Maybe he’d run into a certain handmaiden on the way and finally start up a conversation- or at least send a comment over that might lighten things up a bit for himself personally. |
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Neutral
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Varik Beltharian | M | 25 | Royal Guard | Mentions: The Suitors {Ind.}, The Heirs {Ind.}, Carter {Dir.} Not a single pleasant thought had crossed Varik’s mind since he had risen with the sun hours ago. At least the steady, unchanging routine of pacing the castle grounds clad in the polished armor of the Amadon royal guards brought him a semblance of satisfaction. It was a small mercy that he had been left to this duty instead of the far more unpleasant task of receiving the incoming suitors from across the realm of Eldaron. When he had dared utter a plea into the universe a fortnight ago to taste the kind of eventfulness he had once known well before swearing himself to the Crown, he did not intend for it to come in the shape of instability attempting to root itself into the heart of the kingdom. Nor in the form of an inconvenient assembly of privileged, unremarkable men and women vying for the hands of Amadon’s heirs. Stepping beyond the castle’s grand interior - an imposing structure he had grown numb to over the short span of three years - the cloud cover only served as a grim reminder of the more unwelcome events he would be dutifully shadowing over the next several days, perhaps longer if he were unlucky. He didn’t need to lay eyes on the suitors to form a less than flattering visual of them in his mind. Arrogant. Immature. Self-entitled. Foolhardy. Soft, perhaps, like spoiled children whose only claim to nobility was the privilege of their birth. None likely with qualities that would be attractive compliments at the side of any of the heirs he had come to be in the proximity of. Though the game of politics, the game of power within the realm at that, was not as straightforward as the kind of games of honor he was most familiar with. With measured steps, Varik ascended the castle’s towering wall, continuing his lap of the grounds. He suspected his presence would be more focused on the internals of the castle for some time, or more accurately, he felt more inclined to remain strictly within the walls the outsiders would be housed in. While he didn’t anticipate any particular egregious outbursts or dramatic events, Varik trusted no one enough to be lulled into even a fraction of a false sense of security. The knight knew well enough that no man, or woman, was entirely pure of intent and everyone had the capacity for malice, no matter how mild. He passed by a few fellow men in armor on the wall, offering them a curt nod but feeling no inclination to acknowledge them any further. Varik’s green gaze only fixated on one figure impossible to overlook for a mile - the mountain that was Carter. Even men taller than average seemed insignificant beside the towering giant. Varik, though somewhat shorter than most, had never felt the slightest discomfort or sense of intimidation beside the man. Resting his hand absently on the hilt of the broadsword sheathed at his left hip, Varik slowed his pace and stepped off his path to approach Carter. For a moment beside the other knight, he simply stared out at the horizon, letting the silence linger between them. Finally, he spoke, his tone neutral yet characteristically dry. "Is it unbecoming of me to admit I have as little faith in the day ending without incident as I do in entrusting the barracks' newest squire with properly sharpening swords?" His gaze briefly flicked toward the sword sheathed at his left hip, drawing it out only halfway to gesture toward the novice work that only a seasoned swordsman’s eye could detect. With a tempered yet audible sigh through his nostrils, he resheathed his weapon, his eyes sweeping across the activity unfolding around the castle - both on the wall and the surrounding grounds. Varik had always been opinionated, despite his otherwise well-worn face of complete and utter indifference. Rarely did he ever offer any indication he might be capable of more than being steadfastly dogmatic to his oath though, only in passing to the few worth speaking even a fraction freely to, which were less than a handful of people. It’s taken knowing Carter since they were both boys to even consider him someone respectable and yet not even the mountain was a man he had more than a pocketful of faith in. There were only two things in Varik’s world worth trusting - himself and his dedication to seeing what he swears himself to through. |
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Lightbringer
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Ariella Flyndryia | F | 20 | Azule Suitor | M: Open. The feeling of the worn leather reins in her hands kept the young woman grounded as the golden buckskin Friesian/Thoroughbred stallion danced beneath her. His movements barely jostling his rider, pent up energy and frustration gnawed on the bit which travelled up to her fingers. "I know...but we are almost there and then I promise thaat you will be able to rest." Her heritage dancing along with her words as they raced towards the mounts ears earning a snort that was accompanied with a head toss, however, the stallion kept moving foward, following the carriage that carried the belongings that her father and step mother had stated were necessary. A soft sigh leaves her lips as Ariella looked towards the slowly growing town. It was going to be just a little while longer within the saddle and then she would have to be the representative of Azule that her step mother had raised her to be. Her rich brown eyes looking beyond the current sights as she sent a silent prayer above to her mother. "Please help me make father proud and to keep my wits about myself with those that I will be around." Her attention was pulled from her inner most thoughts as one of the guards she was traveling with cleared his throat and announced that they would be soon entering the vicinity of the castle. The small party would stop their mounts and in a moment of hesitation, Ariella didn't dismount when the others were. Her hands gripping tighter around the reins not wanting to finish the journey in the carriage. "Lady Flyndryia, your father asked that we ensure that you arrive in the carriage that he sent along. Of course we can continue as we are, if you wish." The gruff voice of the guard who spent most of his time training her brothers pulled her deep gaze to the older male. "Thank you Frances, however," She takes a deep breath as her hands release the tension. "You have allowed me to enjoy the scenery from the outside of the cage, and I think we will keep that going." A mischievious smile danced on the corner of her lips as he nodded and she turned her attention to the others. "We are going to continue as we were. I want to see how these heirs will respond to their guests and how they treat one that may not appear to be one of the esteemed guests." With that, she waited until Frances had stepped away before spurring her stallion into a ground swallowing run. His strides carrying him away from the stunned group of guards who only looked at the chuckling male. "Well we better be after her or who knows what she will do without us." His blue eyes sparkling against the salt and pepper dark mane that was falling into his eyes. The male older, yes, however he matched the energy of those that were younger than him and he asked his own mount to follow after the dust that was the young lady. Those with the carriage quickly hurried to be mounted and put together before also following the pair. Was this time for Ariella to earn her wings? |
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Winter 
Night 
Clear Moon: 
