Author Topic: Reunification?  (Read 4267 times)

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Offline X-Ghieste & HOT/GH (Matt)

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Reunification?
« on: March 19, 2009, 06:10:36 PM »
In the early morning sunshine, light and delicate as new it rises, and through the summer mist that swims and swirls still through the streets of the Imperial City, from off of the rivers and waterways that thread their weary way through it; in that sunshine and mist they move. A small group, all dressed in smoky grays and blacks, emerge from a small gated door in an otherwise unimpressive wall, rapidly establishing themselves in a pattern, up and down the alley. Low whistles, signalling the all clear, are heard, two from in front, three from behind, almost replying to each other. A single figure in the doorway raises a fist and makes a series of hand gestures to those behind him, out of sight, and then the movement begins – like a sinuous snake the small column eases the rest of itself out of the doorway and winds quickly down the alleyway. From the body of this main column individuals break off as they pass those who had been emplaced, while those they replace return to the constantly moving group in a continuous cycle.

Doorway by doorway, corner by corner, junction by junction this creature moves, slick and skilled in its continual replenishment and movement; all done at a dazzling speed, while at its heart is a sedan chair is carried by some of the men that move so silently. Clearly the load is heavy but no one speaks or complains in the entire exercise. Those who do observe this whispering parade, from behind creaking shutters or the pulled back edges of heavy curtains, do not actually see any weapons, but that threat is present in the faces of those who move, when the watchers manage to grasp a glance at such, behind hoods, hats and scarves.

But with haste it makes its way to the quarter dock, where a sleek-hulled, fast vessel awaits, ramps only dropped from its decks as the first of the mist-wreathed figures set foot upon the jetty. The box is quickly brought to the foot of those deck ramps but instead of a figure with all the grandeur of a Lord it is a young servant, dressed in the black and red livery of his master, who steps out of the sedan chair, carrying with him a satchel laden with books. From around the jetty now those who have travelled with such precision begin to move aboard the ship in pairs, striding onto the deck with no lessening of diligence to the task at hand.

It is only when they are all aboard, sedan chair dismantled and stowed and open sea between all aboard “The Gull” and the City shore that one of those figures, in the privacy of his personal cabin, removes the mantle, hood and scarf that hid his face and shrugs off the cape to reveal Ghorien Hriele, Duke of Ghieste, his right arm bound up in bandages still, but seemingly no less skilled than any of his men.
His Grace Ghorien Hiriele,
Duke of Ghieste,
Grand-Maester of the Highland/Overland Traders,
Viscount of Whyrthe.
Down Right Evil Bastard!

Offline X-Ghieste & HOT/GH (Matt)

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Re: Reunification?
« Reply #1 on: March 19, 2009, 07:33:30 PM »
As the ship darts over and through the waves, clipping crest after crest with its sharpened bow, the man adorned in black watches the progress from the foredeck; feeling every rise and fall and all the pitch and yaw that only a fast moving vessel can produce without all aboard knowing that death is imminent. So often has he stood like this, so many times in his long life, that he has lost count of the numbers but still it thrills him. It has been sometime now since the last time but he is unsurprised to find the delight in his heart again.

And as he watches he spies what he has waited for this time, just before the call from the top of the main mast that their target is in sight. Calrie is now visible and he knows that he must ready himself and his men. A simple gesture over his shoulder sends those men who have been resting in the main hold into action as each moves for their own packs and gear that has remained stowed throughout the journey. One of his servants comes forwards and starts to redress the stump of his right arm, with bandages soaked in a liquid carefully chilled and while it is being done he smiles as the cold again embraces the vicious wound and he hopes that soon this matter will be at an end.

It is not long before the ranks of his Ducal guard are formed up, ready to move and he himself is arrayed as he should be. His polished half plate sits on heady black silks and velvets, threaded with red and silver here and there to break the monotany. His boots are as highly shined as his armour, reflecting light and sky above. On his left hip sits a sword, bound again with a  peace knot, still not undone from the fateful field in that City long behind them all. On his right hip sits the misericorde, with all its wicked longings and final kisses. An appraisng check within in a silvered mirror, as they near the port itself, and he is satisified that neither he nor his retinue will let Ghieste down and so he moves towards the railings at the side of the ship to see who awaits his arrival.
His Grace Ghorien Hiriele,
Duke of Ghieste,
Grand-Maester of the Highland/Overland Traders,
Viscount of Whyrthe.
Down Right Evil Bastard!

Offline X-ETN/Maire Cwyllmie (Libor)

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Re: Reunification?
« Reply #2 on: March 19, 2009, 10:43:50 PM »
And it seems that nobody awaits those coming. People in the port are doing their bussiness as usually. However as the ship closes, many notices that this is not casual arrival. Merchants or fishermen don't look like this. Who are they? What do they want here? Invanders? No, they wouldn't come in a single small ship. Perhaps some ambassadors to Queen's court. Yes it must be the case. Lets take a closer look at them. By the time the ship touches jetty, there is almost mob around, lot of shouting, point fingering and excited anticipation. 

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Re: Reunification?
« Reply #3 on: March 20, 2009, 12:37:32 AM »
The Duke's colours are unfurled from the mast at the last and as soon as the ship is secured to the dock then a banner bearer with two guards are quick down the planks. Ghorien takes his time at the rail, waving at the crowds with his good hand and watching as his troops find their places on the shore. As though an invisble signal is given, he suddenly moves towards the ramp, his guards still on deck keeping pace and pattern as he goes and soon enough he is down on solid ground with a circle of guards politely keeping all away from his position, without drawing any weapons. He then starts to process towards the town itself with a certain sense of direction and purpose.
His Grace Ghorien Hiriele,
Duke of Ghieste,
Grand-Maester of the Highland/Overland Traders,
Viscount of Whyrthe.
Down Right Evil Bastard!

Offline X-ETN/Maire Cwyllmie (Libor)

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Re: Reunification?
« Reply #4 on: March 20, 2009, 12:07:26 PM »
There are 3 well visible dominant features. Queen's palace, Nesirie's temple and ancient (and somewhat damaged by time) Great Lighthouse. Where will duke go? Or is he just for a beer here :)?

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Re: Reunification?
« Reply #5 on: March 20, 2009, 02:37:05 PM »
With but a few whispered words, and the handing over of a sealed letter to a well dressed servant, a small knot of men detach themselves from the main body and start to escort the messenger in the direction of the Royal Palace. The Duke himself takes a moment to breath deeply of the air here and then starts in the direction of the Great Temple to Nesirie, his guards and retinue slipping into motion around him.
His Grace Ghorien Hiriele,
Duke of Ghieste,
Grand-Maester of the Highland/Overland Traders,
Viscount of Whyrthe.
Down Right Evil Bastard!

Offline X-ETN/Maire Cwyllmie (Libor)

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Re: Reunification?
« Reply #6 on: March 20, 2009, 03:43:01 PM »
As the duke approaches Nesirie's temple, Maire Cwyllmie herself steps before the main entrance accompanied by a few priestesses and female paladins (apparently bodyguards). Dominating color is blue there.  Light blue of lower priestesses and paladins makes a fine background for Maira's deep blue simple folded robe. There is a serene smile on her face, hands calmly resting in each other she is standing in relaxed yet upright posture. Everything seems so tranquil here, even wind from the sea calmed to light refreshing breeze. Something is in the air, something everyone thinks he knew but forgot long ago, something he longed for much, but what eludes him even now. Maybe if he stays here for a little longer, he rememberes ...

And into this atmosphere the high priestess speaks:


Wellcome duke. We have not pilgrims like you everyday here. Have you come to pay respect to our goddess?

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Re: Reunification?
« Reply #7 on: March 20, 2009, 04:41:14 PM »
His men spread about him, keeping their distance and looking  mostly external to the circle, none daring to stand between the Duke and the High Priestess’ company. He himself stands facing her, tired looking, drained of all energy, his left arm by his side, palm open to the sky. His right arm is bound across his body in a fresh sling, still damp with the treatment upon it. His eyes meet the Priestess’ as he answers her, his voice cracking slightly as he does so.

“We have come to pay our respects and also to ask humbly for her aid and yours.”

He bows deeply and one of the servants behind him beings forward a small ornate chest, so it is level with Ghorien.

“Sadly we suffered a grievous wound in the Imperial City and were told that only you and the Goddess could aid us. Would you wish us to explain what happened and if so would you be able to provide a seat as our feet are less steady than would be preferred?”
His Grace Ghorien Hiriele,
Duke of Ghieste,
Grand-Maester of the Highland/Overland Traders,
Viscount of Whyrthe.
Down Right Evil Bastard!

Offline X-ETN/Maire Cwyllmie (Libor)

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Re: Reunification?
« Reply #8 on: March 20, 2009, 09:45:03 PM »
Suddenly an attentive expression appears on Maira's face and she gestures to two bystanding priestesses to comfort the duke.

Nesirie is like mother to all people and when they suffer, she suffers too and tears run from her eyes. If you are in your hearth a good child of her, fear not and step in. By a power Nesirie granted to us you will be healed, body and soul alike. Just consign yourself to our care and leave all turmoil of the world at the door for peace in soul greatly helps healing of the body.

Then she steps aside and gestures towards the main entrance in an invitation

Do you have peace in your soul, duke?

Offline X-Ghieste & HOT/GH (Matt)

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Re: Reunification?
« Reply #9 on: March 21, 2009, 12:05:51 AM »
"If only your Holiness, if only, but we shall seek it."
His Grace Ghorien Hiriele,
Duke of Ghieste,
Grand-Maester of the Highland/Overland Traders,
Viscount of Whyrthe.
Down Right Evil Bastard!

Offline X-ETN/Maire Cwyllmie (Libor)

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Re: Reunification?
« Reply #10 on: March 23, 2009, 11:09:50 AM »
Well, We will try to help you to find it here. Generally, the best way to achieve it is doing good deeds, trust and rely on people around you, accepting help of neighbours when you are in need and in turn helping those who are suffering when you can. And of course have faith in the Goddess grace.

OOC: I think we can end it here as it was meant mainly as show for the public (at least from my side).

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Re: Reunification?
« Reply #11 on: March 23, 2009, 04:58:25 PM »
The duke nods, his face looking tired, weary and above all like he has been shattered into a thousand pieces. His head remains bowed as he follows the High Priestess into the temple.
His Grace Ghorien Hiriele,
Duke of Ghieste,
Grand-Maester of the Highland/Overland Traders,
Viscount of Whyrthe.
Down Right Evil Bastard!