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Nameless Prestige: To the Nth Degree {DEAD}

PostPosted: Thu Jan 23, 2020 7:20 pm
by Faal Lot Himdah
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Nameless Prestige: To the Nth Degree



There once was a world by the name of Caria, a world that was full of fantastic life, fantastic locations and fantastic stories. In this world, many continents, full of diverse life and diverse histories can be found. Every continent is unique in their own way, from the flora and fauna to the races and cultures that call specific continent homes. Anoris is the name of one of the continents of Caria, known for its abundance of life, moderate climate, and being the home of the Humans of Caria.

The history of Anoris, is long and storied, as it begins long before the arrival of man to the continent. The continent was originally home to the Elves, with the humans migrating to the continent after a series of disasters. Upon arriving on Anoris, the Elves originally welcomed them and taught them how to survive. However, soon the biological differences between Elves and Humans became obvious, leading to a wave of fear and paranoia surging through the Elven population. This fear and paranoia lead them to striking the peaceful human settlements, killing those who fought back, and enslaving those who survived. Thus began the age of humanity in chains. The anger and hatred of the humans towards Elves was cultivated during this time, along with the desire for freedom from their tyrannical overlords.

This buildup led to a rebellion that would free the humans, and lead to the pushing of Elves from Anoris and the establishment of the Empire of Akias. The 2000 years of the Empire of Akias are known as the Golden Age of Humanity. However, these great times would never last forever, and the Empire of Akias collapsed due to an unknown reason. Advancements in both technology and magic were lost after the fall. Time would pass, but the level of advancement experienced during the Empire of Akias would not be met, even 2000 years after the fall.

It is then, in 2000 AFA that our tale takes place. The Anoris of 2000 AFA is a divided continent with 11 nations that rarely agree on anything. In fact, three of these 11 nations have just recently made peace after a long period of war. Beyond these nations, seven cultural/racial groups of humans exist along with seven major religions. There are also numerous settlements, and numerous different organizations throughout Anoris, especially mercenary groups.

One of these many mercenary groups, specifically the most powerful, respected, feared and prestigious mercenary group, the Nameless Prestige. But do not let the reputation fool you into thinking it is a large or normal sized group. No, the Nameless Prestige is relatively tiny, maxing out at 21 members, and keeps this size fairly constantly, as when a member retires or dies, the Nameless Prestige will seek a replacement from a pool of possibilities. Its notoriety comes from the fact that every member of the Nameless Prestige is among the greatest warriors with spell or blade or both in Anoris, along with the ability of their members to work well as a team.

Not many can pinpoint the exact date of its founding as it is not exactly known, as it really doesn’t matter to the 21 members of the Nameless Prestige, or those seeking to hire them. Due to the skills of the members of the Nameless Prestige, along with other factors, the Nameless Prestige never accepts jobs that would involve them getting involved in the conflict between nations. Instead, generally taking jobs that involve dealing with bandits, criminal organizations, monsters and other general threats to everyone.

Anyways, this is a tale of a certain job that the Nameless Prestige took, for the better of Anoris. In Hibernis Vernum of 1999 AFA, the Grand Prince of the Grand Principality of Asnana discovered that a powerful artifact, known as Nth Order, had disappeared. The existence of Nth Order was a well kept secret as if the news of its existence was common knowledge, then a devastating war over it would have descended upon the people of Anoris. So, it goes without saying why the Grand Prince wanted it found, and why he couldn’t trust anyone but the best to not only find it, but do it with discretion. And so, he hired the Nameless Prestige, and provided them with the information they would need to track it down.

This is the tale of how the Nameless Prestige found Nth Order, and the events associated with it.




Katelin “One-Eyed Demon” Sharpe
The Grand Principality of Asnana, Pensey
On Her Way
2nd of Verum Renee, 2000 AFA




The city of Pensey was not the most impressive site, at least when compared to other capitals around Anoris. This could simply be due to the fact that Pensey was the capital for one of the weaker nations of Anoris, the Grand Principality of Asnana. That said, perhaps if one compared Pensey to other cities with in the Grand Principality, then maybe one could have seen it as impressive.

There are three ways into the city of Pensey; through the eastern gate, the southwestern gate and the northern harbour. Those who approach the city from the east, via the eastern road, would enter the city through the eastern gate, after passing through the slums of Pensey that exist outside of the eastern walls. Those who approach the city from the southwest, via the southwestern road, would enter the city through the southwestern gate, after passing through the farms that exist outside of the southwestern walls. Those who approach the city from the north, via ship across the Barna Lake, would enter the city after disembarking at the northern harbour, which itself exists just outside the northern walls of the city, with a gate serving as the entrance into the city from the harbour.

Approaching from the east, on the eastern road, a single, black haired rider could be seen. She wore armour, but had no weapon, and an eyepatch covered her right eye. The lack of a weapon could have been explained away by assuming that she was a magic user. An assumption that was helped by the fact that anyone with even the slightest ability with magic could feel the magic radiating from her.

She was also wearing a certain ring on her right hand. A ring that signified that she was a member of the Nameless Prestige. However, of those who knew what the ring signified, not one of them would be able to guess who she truly was. They would assume that she was just an ordinary member, but they would be wrong. This weaponless rider was none other than the leader of the Nameless Prestige, Katelin “One-Eyed Demon” Sharpe.

The reason why no one would guess that she was the leader was mainly due to one factor. This factor was that they had no reason to assume so. Those who know the Nameless Prestige also knew that the leader is only known by a handful of people, and rarely has any reason to leave the headquarters of the group, even if it was to meet up with prospective clients. However, that was why she had come to Pensey, that was why she had been traveling for five days, to meet with a prospective client.

As she rode through the slums of Pensey, towards the eastern gate, Katelin’s gaze turned upwards, to the walls of the city. They were what one would have expected. Made of stone, well crafted, rather large and well guarded. Well, maybe a little to guarded from what she saw. This was not her first time visiting the city of Pensey, but never had she seen the walls crawling with so many guards as now. The gate which was normally open with maybe two guards standing by, was now closed with a handful of guards standing by it.

“Halt.” One of the guards said as Katelin approached, putting out his hand signalling her to stop. “By order of the Grand Prince, entry to the city has been restricted. Only those with proof of residence or those who have been invited by certain noble families or business owners for the purpose of business may enter. So, unless you can provide proof of any of this, I’ll have to ask you to-”

As the guard spoke, Katelin has reached into her saddle bag, pulling out a letter. Before the guard could finish, she held the letter out to the guard, with her right hand, so that the Nameless Prestige ring was easily visible.

“I presume this will be enough.” She said as the guard took the letter, and started to read it.

The guard nodded, handing the letter back and then waved to the other guards. As the gate opened the guarded waved her through. So, she rode in on silence as the gates closed behind her. As she was here on business, she paid no attention to the layout or people of the city, instead remaining solely focused on heading for the Barna Palace.

An hour or so after entering the city, Katelin had arrived at the Barna Palace. Located on a small island at the mouth of the River Pen, the Barna Palace was walled off except for two bridges connecting it to the eastern and western halves of Pensey. Much like the walls around the city, the walls around the Barna Palace where also strangely heavily defended considering the fact that the Grand Principality was at peace.



Grand Prince Otto Asnana
The Grand Principality of Asnana, Pensey
Meeting at Barna Palace
2nd of Verum Renee, 2000 AFA




“How could this happen?” An old man whispered to himself, as he sat behind a desk. His blue eyes floated from book to scroll to document and back again, not seeming to stop for but a few moments as he searched for something. As his eyes travelled, he would unconsciously stroke at the well kept, white beard that covered his chin.

This old man was none other than the Grand Prince of the Grand Principality, Grand Prince Otto Asnana, and this was his personal study and library. Every tome, every scroll, every single document was either passed down the Asnana line from Grand Prince to Grand Prince or obtained by Otto in order to pass it down to his heir. Such was the way of the Grand Princes of the Asnana line.

Despite the Asnana line being known for its scholarship, Otto was not looking through all of this for his amusement. Nor was he looking through it for the purpose of research. That said, he was looking for answers. Answers in order to prevent catastrophe. His almost maddening search was brought to a stop with a knocking at his door.

“Your Majesty,” the voice of one of the palace guards spoke, “I apologize for the interruption, but you have a visitor.”

“I thought I said to turn away any unannounced visits at the gates.” Otto responded.

“You did sir, but…” The guard paused for a moment, “She has an invitation.”

“Who is she?”

“Lady Sharpe of the Nameless Prestige…”

“Well then, don’t keep her waiting outside. Let her into the palace, I will meet with her in the throne room.”

“Actually sir… She wouldn’t wait outside, so… she’s standing right next to me.”

“Of course…” Otto sighed and smirked to himself, “Well let her enter then.”

With that the door to his study opened, and the guard beckoned her in. Upon entering the room, Katelin gave the Grand Prince a short bow.

“You may leave.” Otto said as he looked at the guard, “And do not let anyone bother us, for any reason short of the city being on fire, until I say otherwise. Understand?”

“Yes sir.” The guard nodded, and then quickly left.

“Now then, please sit.” Otto said as his attention turned to Katelin, “I assume that Kairo was busy with something else, as he sent someone else in his place to meet with one of his oldest friends. Honestly, I would be hurt, but seeing as he sent the legendary One-Eyed Demon… Well, I guess I can’t complain.”

“Your Majesty. Allow me to stop you there.” Katelin said, “Kairo is no longer the Master of the Nameless Prestige. He retired two years ago. And before you ask, after retiring, Kairo disappeared so the Prestige does not know where he is, and as such, I can not tell you why he didn’t inform you, a supposed old friend according to yourself.”

“I see that you are similar to what the rumours say,” Otto chuckled, “So then, since I would not expect the new Master of the Nameless Prestige to personally come out here, since I would not have that same relationship, I can assume that you are still just the messenger or as a proxy.”

“Incorrect.” Katelin smirked, “Due to the contents of the documents you sent with the letter, the current Master of the Nameless Prestige deemed it necessary to meet with you in person.”

“Oh, now that is interesting. I apologize for my rudeness then.” Otto said giving her a courtesy nod before continuing, “But enough small talk, shall we get down to business?”

“Yes.” Katelin said, “And the Nameless Prestige will take the job… after you clear up what exactly is Nth Order, why the Grand Principality has what you described as the most dangerous magic weapon created, and how you managed to lose it.”

“Is that all you want to know?”

“No. That’s just the start…”



Katelin “One-Eyed Demon” Sharpe
Nameless Prestige Headquarters, Kingdom of Atral
Rallying the Forces
6th of Primo Seminis, 2000 AFA




It had been over a month since Katelin had met with the Grand Prince Otto, and now was the day that the Nameless Prestige would begin the job. Why the delay? Well, even though as soon as Katelin left the Barna Palace, she used the Nameless Prestige ring to issue a summons to certain members of the Prestige, to meet at the Nameless Prestige Headquarters. Members that Katelin had deemed suitable for the job when meeting with the Grand Prince. Due to the central location of the headquarters, it would take about 4 weeks to reach it from all corners of Anoris by horse, and therefore, she set the date of the meeting for the 6th of Primo Seminis.

The Headquarters of the Nameless Prestige, known as The Farm to those who know about it, appears to be nothing more than an abandoned, overgrown farm within an hours walk from the city of Pester in the Kingdom of Atral. Due to this, the Nameless Prestige secretly owns a stable near the city’s entrance, and its members are expected to keep their horses there. A secret passage lies within the old farmhouse, a passage that is sealed by magic that only allows those with the ring of the Nameless Prestige to open it and enter The Farm. After passing through the passage, one would find themselves descend to an underground cavern with a seemingly endless abyss. A single path carved from the rock of the cavern leads from its entrance to an ancient underground fortress carved into the wall of the cavern. That ancient fortress is the true form of The Farm, and contains all that members of the Nameless Prestige need.

Upon entering The Farm proper, an individual is met with a fairly empty entrance hall. From the entrance hall, three doorways could be seen. The largest one was on the opposite side of the entrance hall, and the hall beyond the door would split into three halls. The central hall leads to the fortress’ great hall, which has always been used by the Nameless Prestige as their main meeting area. The left hall leads to a staircase that only descends into a large storehouse and kitchen area, while the right hall leads to a staircase that ascends. The doorway to the left of the entrance hall leads to a large training area, and a forge. The doorway to the right of the entrance hall only leads to a staircase that both ascends and descends.

Both ascending staircases lead to the second level of the ancient forest. The staircase that ascends near the great hall reaches a hall that eventually comes to a point where it splits into three different halls. The hall going left leads to a chapel used by members of the Prestige no matter what faith they follow. The hall that leads forward comes to an end at another ascending staircase. The hall that leads to the right eventually connects with the hall from where the other ascending staircase of the first level reaches the second. Together, these halls have doors connecting them to the chambers that are assigned to each member of the Nameless Prestige, with the exception of the Master’s chambers.

The third, and highest level of the ancient fortress is where one would find the library of the Nameless Prestige and the solar of the Master of the Nameless Prestige. The library of the Nameless Prestige is filled with many documents, books, and scrolls gathered over the years by the Nameless Prestige for the use of its members. The solar of the Master of the Nameless Prestige consist of the Master’s private study, a bed chamber, and a main general chamber.

However, those are only the levels as one moves up within the ancient fortress. The staircase found right of the entrance hall that descends leads to the so called basement of the underground fortress. This basement contains additional storage areas, along with a dungeon that is rarely used by the Nameless Prestige, and yet another staircase that descends again. This one descends to a single hall, which ends with a large door.

This door opens into the second basement, which is comprised of two rooms, and a staircase that descends into a crypt, where all deceased members of the Nameless Prestige are laid to rest. The two rooms of the second basement include a room known as the Room of Names, which is filled with art and statues depicting past events and former members of the Nameless Prestige. The other room is sealed with magic that allows only the Master of the Nameless Prestige to enter. This sealed room is the treasure room of the Nameless Prestige.

Anyways, it was still early in the morning, giving a few hours for those members who she had called who had yet to come, to show up. This was to be expected, as despite The Farm being the headquarters of the Nameless Prestige, not many members beyond Katelin herself stayed for long periods. So even if a member had arrived early, there really was no expectation for them to stay at The Farm.

Did this bother her? No, all she cared about was that they showed up for the meeting she summoned them for. Where they stayed if they arrived early was really no concern to her. And so she waited. She waited there, in The Farm’s great hall for those who she summoned to arrive.

“Today is the day history will be made…” Katelin muttered to herself as she sat there in the great hall, with a wooden sword leaning on the side of her chair.

PostPosted: Fri Jan 24, 2020 6:49 am
by Lessoni
Chastity Dredd

The dagger flew through the air, end over end. The blade glinted in the light of the fire. It flew true as it struck its target, embedding itself up to the hilt. A cheer went up around the tavern at the perfect bullseye Chastity Dredd had thrown. It meant a free round for all. The bartender grudgingly poured out the 24th free round that night, heavily regretting the sign he'd put on the wall announcing a free round for every bullseye. Worrying about his coffers, the bartender gestured to the two bouncers he kept around in case someone like Chastity came around. They moved forward, drawing saps from their belt and advancing on the seemingly blackout drunk gladiator. No one in the bar can quite recall what happened next, though it is known that the bouncers weren't seen at the bar again, and the bartender was never quite able to get out the bloodstain from the counter.
Jack Dredd
The next morning, Jack Dredd woke up with a pounding headache and a bruise on his leg. He didn't want to know how he got it. Instead of trying to remember, he put on his armor, his chest bare and his weapons strapped to his side and back. His armor glinted in the sunlight that streamed through the window, and he staggered out through the door, not bothering to pay the innkeeper. The innkeeper knew better than to ask, at this point.

He hopped onto his horse, named Ceyoto, that he'd left out front. He hadn't bothered to tie it; he knew it wouldn't run off. Mounting up, he rode at a near breakneck speed until he reached The Farm, hopping off before the horse had stopped. The roll Jack executed would've been given a ten if it'd been judged. He kicked in the door to the old farmhouse, closing it behind him as he approached the passage, giving it a second to open before he walked through. He always disliked walking through the stone passage; it gave him the creeps being underground. Walking into the stone great hall, he gave a wave to Katelin.

"Still cooped up down here, I see, Katelin. Why the hell am I here?," asked Jack.

PostPosted: Sat Jan 25, 2020 6:24 pm
by Faal Lot Himdah
Katelin “One-Eyed Demon” Sharpe
Underground Fortress, The Farm, Kingdom of Atral
Rallying the Forces
6th of Primo Seminis, 2000 AFA




When the door to the great hall opened, Katelin was not sure whether to be surprised or not that the individual who entered was the first to arrive. It all really depended on who she was faced with. That was the issue with dealing with an individual with a split mind. But being the Master of the Nameless Prestige, it was part of her job to know the members of the Prestige. To know their names, know their skills, know their mettle, and know their heart. Beyond that, she had a certain talent for reading people.

"Jack, shall I remind you once again to watch your tongue?" Katelin commented with a stone face. However, before Jack could respond, the stone cracked as she gave a smirk and slight chuckle, "Then again, such a request is folly among the Prestige. As for why you are here, patience. I will explain once the rest have arrived."

After a pause, she spoke again, "Also, if I hear that one of your other sides has been causing issues for the Prestige with their behaviour... Well, you are smart enough to understand."

PostPosted: Sat Jan 25, 2020 6:42 pm
by Lessoni
Faal Lot Himdah wrote:After a pause, she spoke again, "Also, if I hear that one of your other sides has been causing issues for the Prestige with their behaviour... Well, you are smart enough to understand."


Jack Dredd

He didn't nod at her words, or really give any indication he heard at all. He did, of course, he just had a different conversation going on.

"She has so little faith. Disheartening, really," said Chastity. Steinar remained silent, which wasn't altogether unusual.

"If any side of me's going to cause trouble, it'll be this one. I'm the only one smart enough to be any trouble," said Jack. He pulled out a chair and took a seat, drawing his dagger and balancing it on his finger to pass the time.

PostPosted: Sun Jan 26, 2020 7:50 pm
by Argonopolis
Restus Andal

After dropping off his horse and cart at the stable, Restus made his way to the old dilapidated farm that the headquarters was hidden beneath. Just in case, He had left some of his smaller golems to guard his horse and cart from any potential thieves. Bumbling along beside him was his little clay homunculus, Clayton Hills, who rushed to keep up with his Lorico creator. After the long walk from the stables, Restus raised his ring up to the door and entered the secret hideout.

Entering into the great hall, Restus was met with the sight of two of his fellow Nameless Prestige members. The first one he greeted was the one eyed wonder, Katelin Sharpe. The current Master of The Nameless Prestige had more than earned Restus's respect, especially with her monstrous magical power. Restus's feelings towards the other Prestige Member was the opposite of positive. The three-in-one Dredd was just too unstable for Restus. Without knowing Dredd's motives, Restus could never trust the splintered man. Moving on from his distrust of the many faced man, Restus turned his thoughts to the upcoming job. Hoping this job would lead to a big payday, Restus asked, "So what is this great big job about boss?"

PostPosted: Mon Jan 27, 2020 5:45 pm
by Faal Lot Himdah
Katelin “One-Eyed Demon” Sharpe
Underground Fortress, The Farm, Kingdom of Atral
Rallying the Forces
6th of Primo Seminis, 2000 AFA




Next to enter the door was a man with a shady past, though that wasn't exactly unique. No, what made the man who entered special was what he could do. This man was Restus Andal, the Mana Forger from Berporling, the Mana Forger who had quite the list of previous employment. From what Katelin could gather, he started in the streets of Berporling rising to a member of the Dire Order, before going from group to group until finally being picked up by the Prestige. Restus' past explained why he was the way he was according to Katelin, making him more bearable. A skilled, arrogant, selfish and cruel man but a man who is useful to the Prestige.

"Always looking for your next pay day aren't you Restus?" Katelin said and smirked, "As I have said to Jack here, patience. Once the rest have gathered I will explain. But worry not, the pay will be worth it."

PostPosted: Mon Jan 27, 2020 6:11 pm
by Sivala
Helden Helschlitz
“The Frost-Walker”


A rut in the road startled the dreaming nobleman out of his slumber. “Damn.” He groaned from the back of the cart, stretching out of lumpy sacks of flour as the world around him jostled and creaked.

“Ah you’re awake back there!” The carter called back, turning around to give Helden a closer look. He was old, where his passenger was young. Perhaps fifty five to Helden’s thirty. He had kindly given Helden space in the back of his cart in exchange for a story and a fistful of copper coins. With the death of his horse on his last job, it was a bargain the mercenary could hardly afford to turn down. “We’re nearly there now.”

“Are we now?” He asks, with the hard accents of the east colouring his speech. “We’ve made good time, what’s it been, two hours?”

The carter glances up at the sky, “Eh, near enough at any rate. Woulda been faster if you’d have just bought a horse.”

“Yes, but I’m not certain I’ve passed my period of mourning for Lady Calanthe. Besides, you were cheaper.” Helden replies with a fierce grin.

“Aye well, I always wanted to hear a story about the Prestige, told by one of them.”

“Well it’s your lucky-“ Helden stops a moment and glances out of the cart. “That’s it right there. You can stop here.” The cart comes to a slow stop upon the road, allowing Helden to hop off and grab his gear. Once everything was secured upon his shoulder he began the walk down the trail towards the ‘Farm’, waving goodbye to his new acquaintance. As he made his way to the closest thing he’s had to a home in three years, he has to wonder what exactly Sharpe has in mind for him. Known even amongst the Prestige as a frontiersmen, Helden often found himself ranging on jobs far outside the cities where his tracking and survivalist skills made him an incredible asset. His mastery of Frost magics too, was something to be remarked upon.

Approaching the dilapidated farmhouse, he shoulders the rickety door in and heads towards the cellar. Once there, he runs his ringed hand upon the stone floor which cracks open into the passage down to the Farm proper. “What could it be all about?” He murmurs aloud as he makes his way through the twists and turns of the passageways before arriving at the hall.

He wasn’t the first to arrive. That was to be expected; Helden did things in his own time and nobody else’s. If he needed to rush, he would, but only if he determined it to be strictly required. In this case, his pace was proven reasonable as only Jack Dredd and Restus had beaten him there.

“Apologies for the time of my arrival friends. I’m finding myself without a horse these days.”

PostPosted: Tue Jan 28, 2020 10:33 am
by Faal Lot Himdah
Katelin “One-Eyed Demon” Sharpe
Underground Fortress, The Farm, Kingdom of Atral
Rallying the Forces
6th of Primo Seminis, 2000 AFA




Yet another member of the Prestige arrived not long after the arrival of Restus. This member was the man of the frontier, the Frost-Walker, Helden Helschlitz. From what Katelin knew about him, he was one of the few members of the Prestige with noble blood, be it the blood of minor nobility. He was the son of the House Helschlitz near the northern border of the Queendom of Metrauburg, who after a chance meeting went down a path leading to membership with the Academy of Irnthalas and Magische Kommission long before he joined the Nameless Prestige. Katelin could not help but respect the past of Helden, and saw him as one of the Prestige's greatest members in terms of skill, magic and personality. The only issue in Katelin's opinion was that he enjoyed stories about himself a little too much.

"You are not late, so there is no need to apologize. Besides, we are still waiting on a few more. Also, you might want to get a new horse..."

PostPosted: Tue Jan 28, 2020 3:09 pm
by Sivala
The Frost-Walker raised an eyebrow at his commander, that particular request not going unheard. “Indeed? I’d be right in assuming that this isn’t our sort of run of the mill job then is it?” The be fair jobs that the Nameless Prestige tended to be dealt in on were never run-of-the-mill. But there was a certain kind of expectation even among their kind, and this summoning had the feeling of something quite extraordinary to it.

“Well, as the Commander wills it, I’ll have myself a look at some horseflesh in the city. Something built for endurance I imagine would suit whatever pressing need you have summoned us here for?”

PostPosted: Tue Jan 28, 2020 4:14 pm
by Ceystile
Lindi Diallo
"Well, when they said Nameless Prestige they truly meant it, huh?" The young wizard hauled her now significantly heavier backpack a little higher on her shoulders, a dark brown hand reaching up to pluck hay from her prematurely silver hair. She most likely was going to get an earful being late again, but research waited for no man...all these magical items weren't going to collect themselves, you know? And the Prestige of course didn't have a mission every day, so what was she supposed to do during those slow times? Sit on her butt and wait around? Nah, treasure hunting and following the next spell discovery sounded far more exciting. Smoothing her short traveling robes for what must've been the umpteenth unconscious time, she made her way into the unassuming farmhouse that served to help their whereabouts remain "nameless" as it were. "Commander." Giving a nod to the One-Eyed Demon, she looked around and saw that several of her other compatriots had shown up as well. "Well, I'd say the gang was all here but it doesn't seem like it...lucky for me because it means that I'm not as late as I feared I was.

PostPosted: Tue Jan 28, 2020 6:05 pm
by Lunas Legion
Anaxes the Old
Underground Fortress, The Farm, Kingdom of Atral
6th of Primo Seminis, 2000 AFA


There was a very, very good reason that Katelin had given the meeting's date a whole month from the date of the summons, and Anaxes was not exactly shy in admitting that was most likely him. Even old, he was prone to finding himself in some ill-traveled piece of wilderness or overgrown ruin, with vast distances between him and somewhere that someone might call 'civilised'. He was a wanderer by nature, so it was to be expected.

It had been quite some time since he'd last been summoned; it was never without good reason, so he'd turned away with no reluctance from his most recent prey, a particularly large basilisk he'd been tracking through distant Kascain, the largest he'd ever seen in his life, and started the long journey back at no particular hurry by his own standards. He'd still ridden two horses to death and commandeered a ship at arrowpoint to get back in time, but his definition of haste was warped compared to others. They were all so slow, even in his old age.

Still, it was with a tired grunt that he climbed off his third horse, patting the poor thing's neck. It'd done a good job getting him here, even if it didn't look in good shape by any means as he led it into the stables. Poor thing deserved all the rest it could get. It didn't look like much from the outside, but really, that was the point. He didn't mind going the rest of the way on foot at a brisk jog; it wasn't far from the city to the Farm.

He found his way down through the farmhouse with ease, even after so long away with his longbow slung over one shoulder. He said nothing as he entered the great hall, not even nodding as he took the well-worn seat that had been his since the day he joined; he was a man of few words, preferring action.

PostPosted: Wed Jan 29, 2020 3:54 pm
by Faal Lot Himdah
Katelin “One-Eyed Demon” Sharpe
Underground Fortress, The Farm, Kingdom of Atral
Rallying the Forces
6th of Primo Seminis, 2000 AFA




The next two to arrive were best described as opposites. One was young and highly social, while the other was old and well, not quite social. One was very easy to understand and the other provided more of a challenge. But both Lindi and Anaxes were skilled and valuable members of the Nameless Prestige in their own way, and each one had Katelin's respect for different reasons. Katelin couldn't help but respect the passion of Lindi. As for Anaxes, well, Katelin respected his skills and experience.

"That is right Lindi, not everyone is here yet. Also, don't call me Commander, that goes for you as well Helden. I am no commander."

With that said, Katelin looked to Anaxes and smiled, "Good to see you are still kicking. If my summons interrupted your most recent hunt, allow me to apologize."

PostPosted: Wed Jan 29, 2020 5:13 pm
by Charlia
Lien was not in a good mood.

Yes, this was her job, and she was obligated to show up, but that didn't mean she had to like it; for once she'd felt like she had a promising lead, and having to give up on it irked her. Best to keep that hidden, though.

She dismounted with the practiced ease of a trained rider, stroking her horse's mane and tying it. "This hopefully won't take long," she muttered, though she had a feeling it was going to.

By this point, she knew well how to enter the hidden fortress; it didn't take long before she was standing before the others. A quick inclination of the head was all she felt was required for Katelin, enough to show respect without seeming obsequious. The others received no such acknowledgement. She wasn't there to be friendly, although she counted some of them as friends; she was there only to do her job, and then get back to her own work.

Truthfully, she didn't particularly care for the Nameless Prestige itself. It was a means to an end, something that gave her access to people, places, and thus, information that she otherwise would have a much harder time acquiring. The work was useful on occasion, but most of the time, it was just a job, nothing more and nothing less. She hoped that this time she could at least get something out of it.

PostPosted: Thu Jan 30, 2020 10:13 am
by Lunas Legion
Anaxes the Old
Underground Fortress, The Farm, Kingdom of Atral
6th of Primo Seminis, 2000 AFA


"You wouldn't have interrupted unless it was for an exceedingly good reason, so no apology is necessary." Anaxes said simply, his voice low and gravely. "A summons is rare enough that it is not a great pain to let prey go, they tend to... Precede events of great significance, after all." He let out a dark chuckle as he shifted around in his seat, adjusting to try and get more comfortable. He spent more time on horseback than he did in a chair.

It was rare for them to be summoned, after all, and given how Katelin had seemingly not elaborated on why exactly they had been summoned, he figured that would be revealed in due time. Patience was the greatest of the virtues a hunter could possess, and so he shut his eyes, resting in the manner only one who was always on the move otherwise could do. Every moment must have purpose, and a wasted moment was time one would never get back, something he knew keenly at his age.

PostPosted: Thu Jan 30, 2020 7:49 pm
by Faal Lot Himdah
Katelin “One-Eyed Demon” Sharpe
Underground Fortress, The Farm, Kingdom of Atral
Job Briefing Time
6th of Primo Seminis, 2000 AFA




Next to arrive was one of the more problematic members of the Prestige, Julienne. From what Katelin could dig up, Julienne's life started with abandonment, a story not to unique among Alagle children. From there she was taken in by a Eurabic sailor and his family and supposedly lived a fairly normal life. That was until tragedy struck, the details of which were spotty even with Katelin's connections. This tragedy pushed Julienne on the path that lead to her joining the Nameless Prestige, along with shaping who she was. And it was a certain aspect of her personality that made her problematic in the eyes of Katelin, that being that Julienne viewed the Nameless Prestige as nothing but a tool, and as such made her loyalty to the Prestige questionable. That said, Katelin could not argue with the skills and abilities of Julienne, which made it worth the risk to have her as a member.

"Events of great significance... a bit of an understatement." Katelin said as she stood up, "Speaking of that, now that those who I have summoned have arrived, shall I begin?"

"I understand that each of you are wondering why I have summoned you, why I have interrupted any job or personal business you were on. Well, as most, if not all of you have already figured out... There is a job that needs to be done." Katelin began, "And it would be no exaggeration to say that this is the most important job that any of you will ever have. No. This is the most important job that the Prestige will have ever taken. And that is why I have summoned each of you. Of all the members of the Prestige, you are those I trust to get this job done. Done quickly, done skillfully, and done with as few problems as possible."

There was a moment of silence as Katelin took a breath and glared at each member who had gathered. They would know this glare. This was not a glare of anger, this was her glare of seriousness.

"Before I continue, I must say what you all have probably figured out. This will be the most dangerous job you'd ever take up. There are many unknowns to this job. As such I can not give you an idea of how dangerous it will be, as truthfully, I have no idea. That said, I can say this will also be your most rewarding job. The pay you'll receive will be greater then any other job you've ever taken. But also, you will be doing what is best for all of Anoris."

"So, if the risk is too much for you, you may leave. But, if you are ready to risk your life for fortune or the greater good, then take a seat. If you have any questions before making a choice, ask away."

PostPosted: Tue Feb 04, 2020 7:23 pm
by Lessoni
Faal Lot Himdah wrote:
"Before I continue, I must say what you all have probably figured out. This will be the most dangerous job you'd ever take up. There are many unknowns to this job. As such I can not give you an idea of how dangerous it will be, as truthfully, I have no idea. That said, I can say this will also be your most rewarding job. The pay you'll receive will be greater then any other job you've ever taken. But also, you will be doing what is best for all of Anoris."

"So, if the risk is too much for you, you may leave. But, if you are ready to risk your life for fortune or the greater good, then take a seat. If you have any questions before making a choice, ask away."


Jack Dredd

Jack gave only a nod. He was fairly used to risking his life over stupid stuff: Drunken dares, drunken flings, philosophical debate, drunken philosophical debate. The list went on, really. Fortune and the greater good seemed a better motive than most.

"Out of curiosity, are we gonna get an exact figure for this "greater then any other job we've ever taken?," asked Jack. He did have expenses, after all. Mostly of the medical sort, but that was neither here nor there.

PostPosted: Wed Feb 05, 2020 1:01 am
by Ceystile
“Well, count me in! As long as I can get my hands on a new grimoire or magical item, I’m good.” Lindiwe was always excited for a new adventure, and some may even think her enthusiasm a bit inappropriate or childish considering the seriousness of the missions that the Prestige would take on. But she didn’t mind it, that was her way of dealing with these situations, “if I don’t laugh, I’ll cry...and then I’ll be absolutely useless.” She had told Katelin one day during a casual conversation during their last mission. Missions were opportunities to ferret out potential magical knowledge, and learning new things...gods damn it, she was rambling on in her head again.

PostPosted: Wed Feb 05, 2020 3:50 pm
by Argonopolis
Restus Andal

"Of course I'm in. You would have to be crazy to pass on such a big payday." Every job he went on was full of dangers and uncertainty, but that was why he got paid so much to do them. The whole spiel about it being the most important job in the prestige's history only increased his excitement. The job was probably saving some kidnapped prince or princess, or returning a stolen national treasure. Some jumped up noble was probably trying to stir up a war and steal a throne in the chaos and Restus was not going to let that happen. War was just horrible for his bottom line. During wars, prices of everything shot through the roof and nobody paid for the bandit hunting jobs he thrived on. Restus certainly was not going let some inbred bastard ruin his financial security.

PostPosted: Mon Feb 10, 2020 12:26 am
by Sivala
Helden Helschlitz

Helden considered his curiosity aroused as he walked from his place near one of the meeting hall’s pillars and took a seat in respectful silence. There was a story to be told in this; he could feel it in Katelin’s words, the weight and precision behind them. While it was true what she thought of him, he did like to hear stories told about himself. But more then that, he appreciated the way stories wove the fabric of societies.

Man after all, had been telling stories to one another around the bonfire since their earliest histories. This was going to be the sort of story that would be told for centuries, and while it wouldn’t be his alone, he would forever leave his mark on it. This pleased the mercenary greatly, for like all nobleman’s younger sons, he craved a chance to make his name known the world round, if only to prove that he didn’t need to live in anyone’s shadows.

“Say on, One Eye.” The man says from his seat, grinning widely with his white teeth displayed prominently. “I for one cannot wait to hear what you have for us.”

PostPosted: Mon Feb 10, 2020 10:21 am
by Faal Lot Himdah
Katelin “One-Eyed Demon” Sharpe
Underground Fortress, The Farm, Kingdom of Atral
Job Briefing Time
6th of Primo Seminis, 2000 AFA




"More than any job you have done before. I can not give you an exact number, as due to the nature of the job, some of you may not surive to see pay day, and as such, the amount you'll each receive is subject to change. But even if you do all survive, it will be enough to easily be able to retire and live out the rest of your days in peace." Katelin said as she looked at Jack, "Though, I don't think you'd be one to do so. Either way, when the job is done, any who survive will be rewarded a small fortune."

"Once I have explained the job there will be no pulling out due to the nature of the job. And seeing as none of you have any more questions, and none of you have decided to leave, I assume you are all willing to accept this job." Katelin continued, "On the 2nd of Verum Renee, I traveled to visit the Grand Prince Otto Asnana in regard to a rather disturbing letter he had sent to the Prestige. The letter stated that he was seeking to hire the Nameless Prestige in order to locate a certain relic that was stolen. This relic was the last great work, and magnum opus of the legendary enchanter Barna Asnana."

"According to the Grand Prince, it was the most powerful thing ever created by Barna Asnana. What it is capable of, he would not share, but when I did ask him, he simply said that it was chaos made physical, it was capable of bringing great change to this world, be it for the better or the worse. It was the for worse part that worried him the most, why sought to hire the Prestige and revealed what he did to me. As the Grand Prince said, even he, who had the entire knowledge of the Asnana family at his fingertips, could not hope to understand it and thus could not hope to make proper use of it. The Grand Prince seemed to hold it in his heart much like some would hold a god. With both fear of its power and admiration of its existence. It is a power that the Grand Prince fears will bring the destruction of Anoris if not returned to the safety of the Barna Palace."

Katelin sighed, "And so, the Grand Prince is hiring the Nameless Prestige to find it and return it to him. Due to what it is, someone who knew about it had to be responsible, and as such, he can not trust anyone in his court or even his family with this mission, nor would he trust his army. Besides, if he involved his army it would attract the attention of the other nations of Anoris. He also fears that if the other nations learned of the object, they will fight each other in order to claim it for themselves, leading to a war on a scale that is unseen in the history of Anoris. And therefore, he is hiring the Prestige. That said, we are not going to be operating alone. There are a few that the Grand Prince trusts, those who are responsible for protecting the object with their lives while also studying it, those whose lives are bound to never betray the blood of Asnana and the will of the Grand Prince. Those with a blind devotion to the magnum opus of Barna Asnana, the Nth Architects. Which then brings me to the name of the object... The Nth Order."

"Now that all that is out of the way... You all will be meeting with a member of the Nth Architects in Pester, in a tavern within the north walls of the city. You may all know it, the Old Hand. They have been waiting since yesterday, when they informed me of their arrival. You will follow them, as they are the only ones capable of tracking the magic of Nth Order. You will also treat them with respect, and follow their orders. If you have any other questions, ask now... if not, then what are you doing sitting around here for? You have your job."

PostPosted: Mon Feb 10, 2020 3:42 pm
by Lessoni
Faal Lot Himdah wrote:"Now that all that is out of the way... You all will be meeting with a member of the Nth Architects in Pester, in a tavern within the north walls of the city. You may all know it, the Old Hand. They have been waiting since yesterday, when they informed me of their arrival. You will follow them, as they are the only ones capable of tracking the magic of Nth Order. You will also treat them with respect, and follow their orders. If you have any other questions, ask now... if not, then what are you doing sitting around here for? You have your job."


Jack Dredd

Jack didn't bother asking questions. He hadn't understood most of what had been said, sure, but he got the gist. Magic thing, probably could destroy worlds or something the like, they'd be rich as kings. All he needed, indeed all he wanted to know. He got up wordlessly, moving toward the door and gesturing for the rest to follow him.

"Come now, fortune awaits!," he called to the assembled warriors.

PostPosted: Tue Feb 11, 2020 1:09 am
by Skaldia
    Lucian Graham
    Nameless Prestige Headquarters, Kingdom of Atral
    Job Briefing Time
    6th of Primo Seminis, 2000 AFA

    ____________________________________
She had wilted like a flower beneath the weight of winter. He had held her through the night, in that dingy loft she had found in the slums of Towces. He didn't know what else he could do. He watched the love of his life fade away to nothing. Her great big green eyes, once verdant fields for Lucian to get lost in, took on the appearance of glass as her life fled her. The broken, frail, pale body he had known so well was now a weightless thing. He had picked her corpse up and carried her to the pauper's cemetery. He had no money with him to bury her somewhere of note. He was not going to ask Master John for the few coppers necessary to give her a sanctified burial. It was enough for him to take her the pauper's field. No one need see Lucian as riven as he was. His pain was his alone to carry.

There, beneath an old willow at the corner of the cemetery, he buried her with a spade borrowed from the elderly man who watched over his field of rotted wood markers and old bones. When he was done, he had knelt there in the dirt and wept for the life stolen from the woman he loved so that he may draw breath. He did not know how long he laid there but when he rose he knew what he had to do. As the first rain drops had begun to fall from the crimson sky fading in dusk, he was resolved on his course of action. He left the grave of the only love he had ever known and never looked back. Grief and rage had closed its fist about his heart. . .


As was ever the case with every dream he had, it ended as soon as he left Rosa's grave site. Every time. It was an old wound his mind seemed content in pouring salt on. Even years later, and those memories of Rosa still haunted him and would probably haunt him until the day he closed his eyes for the final time.

He knew where he was. He had rented the room the night before. After having spent his customary hour of nightly prayer to the twin Gods he served, he had ritually cleaned his armor and weapons and then fell asleep. Beneath him, the raucous roars of the drunken crowds was ignored as he closed his eyes and had drifted to sleep. Now? The main hall of the inn and bar he found himself was quiet. He arose from the bed, used the wash bowl to clean himself as best as he could, shaved the few whiskers on his face and donned his armor. When he had first stolen the armor, he had struggled putting it on by himself. The suit of armor was heavy, nearly a hundred pounds of steel. But after almost ten years he wore it like a second skin.

He visited the stable before he left on his walk to the Farm. Char was a beast of a horse, nearly eighteen hands tall. It had been the warhorse of a Knight of the Order of Iron before he had won the horse from the Serjeant of the Order after having saved the man's commander. The man had been angry but he had been honorable and happy that Lucian had saved his commander. And Char had served him ever since. It was only just as well. At more than six and a half feet in height, Lucian needed a strong horse that could ride for extended periods of time with both man and armor on his back.

Lucian paid a stable boy to feed and water his horse while he was away and began the march from Pester to the Farm. The walk had been good for him, and it gave him a chance to enjoy the home of his birth ever more. For too long, he had been in the South on business for the Nameless Prestige, engaging in clandestine work that saw him wielding daggers instead of his sword. It had been an illuminating experience that he was glad to leave in the past, even if some of the things he had been forced to do had been less than honorable. But such was the life of a mercenary, a dog of war paid to exact blood or gold from a source.

He made good time, the march of his armored feet clearing the distance quickly.

As was always the case, he was impressed by the level that the Farm disguised itself. Only with his ring was he able to gain entry. Unfortunately, it was only as he was entering the room where everyone was gathered did he realize he was slightly late. Despite his size making him stand out, he had entered silently and thus placed himself in the back, an armored glowering behemoth near the door. His black eyes stared back and forth between all the other members of the Prestige that had come. He was happy with the general assortment and thus turned his eyes to what their Master was saying.

Lucian was a learned man. He had heard of Barna Asnana and some of his creations. Although he had never heard of the Nth Order or the Nth Architects, the rest of it was enough to turn the blood in his veins to ice. No. This was not good at all. Of course, there seemed to be that one idiot among them who was eager to rush. He didn't like the idea of subordinating himself to someone he had never met either, but he would do his duty as a member of the Nameless Prestige and he would serve with the utmost distinction.

He held his hand up to forestall Jack's exit from the room, since he was near the door. He stepped away from where he had been hiding and spoke. Despite his size, his voice was soft and cultured, at complete odds with the giant man in steel armor."If this was taken by someone the Grand Prince trusted, which I presume includes these. . Architects, how can we trust the person they've sent to help us track it down?" It was a reasonable question, and he wanted to know the contingencies in place to deal with any suspected traitor. While he trusted the fellow members of his Order implicitly, he wasn't yet ready to trust the leadership of someone he had just met. Especially on such a dangerous mission.

PostPosted: Thu Feb 13, 2020 8:59 am
by Faal Lot Himdah
Katelin “One-Eyed Demon” Sharpe
Underground Fortress, The Farm, Kingdom of Atral
Job Briefing Time
6th of Primo Seminis, 2000 AFA




"Simple Lucian. As I said, their lives are bound to the blood of Asnana and the will of the Grand Prince, and as such can not betray the Grand Prince." Katelin restated, "This is not just metaphoric language, this is completely literal. If they go against the will of the Grand Prince or bring harm to the blood of Asnana, they would die. Such is the nature of the magic that binds them. Therefore, if they had betrayed the Grand Prince by aiding in the theif of the Nth Order, then those involved would already be dead. And if you can't accept that answer due to not trusting it or whatever, then perhaps the fact that I trust it should be enough for you. After all, no lies or trickery escapes me."

"Now, I assume the rest of you have no other questions... So, get going then."



The Nth Architect
The Old Hand, Pester, Kingdom of Atral
The First Meeting
6th of Primo Seminis, 2000 AFA




The Old Hand was a rather well known tavern to the people of Pester due to the simple fact that it was the oldest in the city. Beyond the entrance was plenty of seating throughout the tavern's main room, a bar at the far end, and with a hearth burning in the centre of the tavern's main room. On that hearth was a hand seemingly preserved in a jar. That was the old hand that was the namesake of the tavern.

Despite the time of day, when the members of the Nameless Prestige arrived, they would find the tavern suspiciously empty. There was no barkeep, no other staff of the Old Hand, and no patrons. Not a single person, except for one. A single figure could be seen, standing at the hearth, looking at the hand in the jar with its back to the entrance.

"I assume the Prestige sent you all?" the figure said as he turned around to face the members of the Nameless Prestige. He wore a red cloak over his white robe with a sword at his hip. The most unique thing about him though was the mask covered that covered his face, as when you looked at it, a strange unnatural feeling would whisper in ones heart. "I am Moto Lator of the Nth Architects. Shall we begin?"

With that, Moto reached into his cloak and pulled out a rolled paper, and moved to the nearest table. Placing it down and unrolling it revealed a map of Anoris. Once the map was set out, Moto could be heard muttering something in a language that none of the Nameless Prestige members would recognize. As he muttered, he also reached back into his cloak and then pulled out a small leather bag. When he opened it, he turned it upside down over the map, allowing for ash to fall out of it over where Pester was marked.

To say the ash simply fell would be an understatement though, as in truth it almost seemed to flow from the bag. As the ash left the bag, it organized itself into three river-like tendrils flowing a few centimetres over the map. Once the flow seemed to reach its end point, a small flame appeared over the point on the map as the ash returned to the bag. Once all the ash returned to the bag, Moto closed it, returned it to his cloak and ceased his mutterings, but the three flames remained without burning the map.

"Three locations." Moto said, "Three places where the magic of the Nth Order radiates from."

Moto then pointed to the flame, which seemed to have horns that flickered in and out of existence, "North of Watley in the Kingdom of Atral. Seems something inhuman and full of rage lurks among the magic."

Moto then pointed to the second flame, which seemed to be darker than the other flames, and had wing-like shapes to either side that flickered in and out of existence, "Outside of Lanorio in the Utria Imperium. Seems something dark and draconic lurks among the magic."

Finally, Moto pointed to the third flame, which had nothing special about it, "South of Barbeilles, near the Wareton Brook in the Grand Duchy of Cliyca. Seems that nothing of note lurks among the magic."

"Now then... Where do you wish to go first?"

PostPosted: Thu Feb 13, 2020 4:54 pm
by Skaldia
    Lucian Graham
    Nameless Prestige Headquarters, Kingdom of Atral
    Job Briefing Time
    6th of Primo Seminis, 2000 AFA

    ____________________________________
Lucian bowed his head at the words of Katelin, chagrined at not having listened more closely to the woman. The explanation was enough for him, especially if Sharpe believed it to be true. He lifted his head, only to nod at the woman as she told them to get going. So, after being there a total of maybe twenty minutes, he would be once more walking back to Pester. But instead of being alone, he would be surrounded by his compatriots on their way to a mission for an object that could have earth shattering effects if it was allowed to fall in the wrong hands. He wracked his mind for whatever else he could remember about his reading on Barna Asnana but it was scant. He resigned himself that he would have to wait until he learned more from the Architect.



    The Old Hand, Pester, Kingdom of Atral
    The First Meeting
    6th of Primo Seminis, 2000 AFA

    ____________________________________
The walk back to Pester was thankfully brief. His Nameless Prestige peers were thankfully silent and thus did not ruin the peace he found in the walk from the Farm to Pester. He was not prone to idle chit chat anyways. They had been given a mission and he was determined to see it through.

As he walked, he thought more on the words of Katelin Sharpe. If the object was as powerful as rumored, then no doubt nefarious parties were also interested in acquiring it. Whoever stole it had a destination in mind with it. That meant they probably had allies as well. He glanced around him to the men and women marching alongside him and those he had seen at the Farm who were not there, giving them each an approximation before his eyes moved to the road ahead of him.

There had been Helden Helschlitz. He did not know much about the Shole, but he was a good man to have in a corner if the struggle involved somewhere cold and unforgiving. Often, the man's preference for pipe tobacco had been a source of irritation for Lucian, who abstained from smoke and drink as part of his religious ethic. After all, when meeting his Gods, he would do so with a clear head, sword in hand.

Anaxes the Old. He didn't know what to make of the seasoned warrior, although his clear eyes would be an asset. He was calm and a level head, although as a son of nobleman from Atral, he found it hard to get over his instinctual distrust for the Eurabic man even though Anaxes had done absolutely nothing to earn such. Hopefully, during this quest, he would learn more about the man and thus overcome such disquiet he had felt.

Dredd. Now there was a man, of all the others, it would appear that he would get along most with the former pitfighter. Instead, he found the man's personalities to be a dangerous weakness that would prove their undoing. While he appreciated the fact that Dredd was a fellow Lorican and worshiper of Zoynus, the fact that he did not pay reverence to Ina as well was grating. How much of an asset he would prove would be interesting to find out. Lucian just hoped he didn't die finding out the truth of that.

There was the wizard known as Julienne. Of all of them, she remained a mystery to him. He had yet to learn much about her and he wasn't particularly sure if he wanted to.

Another female wizard was Lindiwe Diallo. Now, if there was a woman that he ever wanted to throttle, it was Lindiwe. She never shut up about whatever fancied her. Although her powers would make her a good asset to have, her single mindedness might be a weakness that could cost them later.

Restus Andal was yet another native of Atral and, like Dredd, was someone that Lucian did not trust in the least. Although his magical creations would be incredibly useful, he would keep the man at a good distance. The man was duplicitous, he felt, and thus not worth coming to trust in the least.

With such thoughts boiling in his mind, thinking of his fellow Prestige members, and the upcoming mission, Pester soon came in to view once more. He was happy to see the city walls although he was most interested in seeing how his horse had fared in his absence. No doubt the charger was just fine, the stable boy had seemed a good lad.

Lucian was well acquainted with Pester and her environs, and as such was quick to find the Old Hand. What he had not expected was the complete absence of any of it's patrons or even the bar keeper having absconded. As Lucian's eyes adjusted to the darkness of the inn, he finally noticed the man they had come to find. And oh my, was he an odd one. Not only was he armed but he concealed his face behind a strange magic. He also exuded an air of other-worldliness that had Lucian frowning slightly, hand gripping the pommel of his war hammer that rode on his hip. He comforted himself with the earlier words of Sharpe. If she trusted him, he would trust her.

He nodded as the man addressed them. He was glad to see the man did not mince words, instead focusing on the task at hand. Although Lucian had to fight the urge to tighten his grip on his war hammer as the man reached inside his cloak, he was relieved to find the man having pulled out only a rolled paper. He took a position next to the table as Moto unveiled a map of Anoris. And then the man began to mutter in a strange language that Lucian, despite all his learning, could not comprehend. To underscore the enigmatic nature of the Architect, he pulled out a bag f ash and watched it flow over the map without touching it. As Lucian watched, the ash coalesced on three points.

He listened as the man described the three locations. While Watley at first seemed like the first place Lucian wanted to go, it would take them in the opposite direction of the other two choices, having them march across the entire breadth of Atral. While he liked the possibility of perhaps passing through his birth city, he also knew that came with inherent dangers. Nor did he like the idea of fighting something inhuman and full of rage either. Likewise Lanorio was on the other side of the continent. It would remain a distinct third choice for Lucian. Technically, Barbeilles was the closest of the three choices, but it was remote and it would take a while to travel to the either two quickly from there. Ship would probably be used to leave the city and Lucian did not like traveling by ship. It was also the least interesting of the three choices. One was inhuman rage, while the other was draconic and dark. Although that might be a good thing in the long run. And, as a traveled mercenary, it might be best to err on the side of caution and choose the least threatening of the options.

Having made his choice, he gripped the edge of the table and leaned over to get a better look at the table. His free hand rose and scratched at his chin before speaking."I suggest the third option. I'm not particularly interested in crossing blades with something of inhuman wrath nor fighting a dark draconic entity. It seems the safest although," he paused for a brief moment before he added," I could very well be wrong."

PostPosted: Fri Feb 14, 2020 8:49 am
by Argonopolis
Restus Andal

Restus was plesently surprised to find that nobody had put a sword through the contact. On second thought there were probably a whole bunch of these masked magic men, so killing this one would be of little use. Restus did enjoy the little flame trick with the map, but was less than pleased with the descriptions of the threats they would have to face. While it was tempting to chose the flame with no aspect, there was a big chance that whatever was there could hide itself from prying eyes. It would be faced with a known danger than supposed safety.

"Well, we might as well hit the closest one first. The demo flame does seem like a hard fight, but more manageable than a dragon, always swooping about setting everything on fire."