The World of Ora
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		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Exotic Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: Dariusfallenstar on 13-06-2012, 00:01:41</h2>
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				Title: <strong>The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>13-06-2012, 00:01:41</strong>
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				<div align="center"><strong>Welcome to the World of Ora</strong></div><br>(Please do not post in this thread if you are not a participant.) <br><br>This small group roleplay is my first excision into running a table-top style game on a forum, so bear with me a bit. As this is a roll-free story, the standards for participants are higher than normal. I expect members to be fair without "God Moding;" no one is immortal, anyone can die, even if it is rare. No powers are infinite or utterly overwhelming.&nbsp; <br><br>The post cycle will be free-form when people <strong>separate</strong> but <strong>in turns when PCs are all together</strong>. Everyone should try keep track of how much time is passing in other posts if characters separate. If one character goes to sleep at night and another does not, it may require more posts from the waking character than the sleeping one. Basically, everyone needs to be on the same logical page. Players should feel free to ad lib the world a bit; this is a very well flushed out setting, but the nit-picky details aren't all hammered out. I don't need to name every merchant you barter with and I don't need to tell you what happens between player interactions; feel free to take some creative licenses. That said, anything involving combat that is not between characters or actions that you may want to have <strong>plot</strong> consequences should come from me. Please indicate areas where you want me to step in and control someone with a marker, such as<strong> (GM Interaction Requested)</strong>.&nbsp; <br><br>To keep everything clear and all my reactions separate from the character I'll be running, I'm going to add prompts to each of my posts, indicating what information, if any, I need from each player, along with timing updates and so forth. For example, one of my posts might look like this:<br><br>Player A<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Player A, you encounter a troll in the alley you've wandered down. He looks like this (insert description) and acts like this. &lt;- This is a player prompt based on actions taken and a<strong> (GM Requested) prompt for an encounter of some sort. </strong>. </div></div>Player B<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">You discover the location to the tomb is in the south-west desert. Feel free to do what you want with it. (plus flowery details).&nbsp; &lt;-Same as above, a prompt based on actions that may further plot.</div></div>Player C<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body"> You are asleep and cannot act at this time, given where the other players are. &lt;- Time constraint. </div></div>Players D and E<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body"> The two of you continue to converse and fornicate. Have fun. &lt;- PC interaction with no GM prompt, requires nothing from me </div></div><br>-<br>Followed by what my character does.<br>-<br><br><strong>Player Requirements:</strong><br><ul class="bbc_list"><li>Everyone should be comfortable writing 250+ word posts if called upon to do so. I expect descriptiveness and detail, without bogging the group down too much. Anything over a page, unless appropriate, would be too much. Please use proper grammar and punctuation whenever possible. If I feel like one player's posts aren't meeting the standards of others, I'll speak with them privately and see if something can be worked out prior to bouncing anyone out of a game.</li><li>Participants should be able to post twice a week and expect me to respond at least four or five times, to keep things rolling. Because I won't be including rolls, I expect everyone to play fairly and would prefer players willing to discuss questionable moments during conflict via some form of chat service. For example: if your character is not very strong and you're engaged in a contest of strength with a monster, either bow to the situation and lose, or send me an IM to discuss the outcome. I want to run a game where player death can happen, but it should be fairly rare. </li><li> I've written in the setting of Ora in some of the stories that I've had published. I promise to refrain from using any of your characters or actions in any stories that I write without explicit consent to do so. However, characters that I create, events that I mold, and so forth, may appear in future publications. If you have a problem with this, I suggest you not participate. </li><li>Finally, I run what I consider to be a "living" world; I run a table-top game in real life and the events of that group and groups before may influence the world around the forum and vice-versa. The idea of weaving the stories together (albeit separately) intrigues me and I hope anyone interested in playing would feel similarly piqued. There may be cameos from other E players, depending on the scenarios.&nbsp; </li><li> Posters should use the following tags beginning their posts: <br><div align="center"></div></li></ul><div class="codeheader">Code: <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="return smfSelectText(this);" class="codeoperation">[Select]</a></div><pre style="margin: 0; padding: 0;"><code class="bbc_code">Time of day beginning post:<br>Time of day ending post:<br>Location beginning post:<br>Location ending post: <br>Characters currently interacting with:<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no)</code></pre><ul class="bbc_list">[/center] [/li]<br></ul><br><br><strong>Fetishes Explored:</strong> Obviously, because I come to E for erotic roleplay, I expect there to be far more opportunities for sexual interactions and magic than in a standard table-top game.&nbsp; I don't want to limit any fetishes in this scenario. That said, I don't want something that turns into Bible Black or ubah-smutty Hentai. <br><br><div align="center"><strong>Setting Summary</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body"><br>Ora is a world of high magic with a massive background that will not be entirely divulged here. If you'd like to discuss possible character backgrounds and how they would work in the world, please message me privately so I can fill you in on what you should know, rather than info-dumping you. <br><strong><br>Level of Magic</strong><br><br>Ora is a world rich with magic. The Creation Stone (a powerful and holy magical item that resides in the city of Accord) allowed a multitude of unique types of supernatural to spring into existence, some of which overlap with arcane/divine magic and some which do not. That said, the vast majority of people have no special powers (other than those native to their race).<br><br>Players can expect there to be the traditional D&amp;D tropes: wizards in towers, clerics in temples, psions in meditation, etc. On top of that, there are individuals who have been Gifted with unique powers from the Creation Stone. These powers can be as unique as knowing the maps of all the oceans, or Bloodline Gifts that influence an entire family, granting them unique insight or abilities. Some, rare and powerful, Gifts unlock entire new types of power, such as the awesome Exo-Mage.<br><br>On top of this, the world’s proximity to the Elemental Plane has given rise to a whole series of elementally-touched races and classes.<br><br>At times the cities of the world have known great prosperity and amazing enhancements: messages that automatically traveled from continent to continent for a small fee, and so forth. Vast wars and chaos has changed that, bringing much of the state of the world into what we might consider a typical fantasy setting, with evidence of ancient wonders and high magic lurking here and there.<br><br>The Gods of the world are Distant and their influence is felt only through their Clerics, who are often guided by Prophets. Prophets alone have the ability to somewhat communicate with the Gods, and even then, the results are often murky.<br><br><strong>Level of Technology</strong><br><br>Ora’s technology level varies widely. Reclusive Gnomes and Dwarves have access to some of what we might consider “modern” marvels, and the Lords of Hell created space ships. Most technology is kept close to a races’ vest, though: Dwarves don’t share their information and Gnomes are well-known to be insane. The Lords of Hell and all of their technology has been suppressed or destroyed. Humans and Elves rely mostly on magic, not technology. The Dulosians rely on art and creativity and, as such, have some advanced technology, but most is backed by supernatural influence. The Force Lords use the Altrichar to fuel mechanical devices that do amazing things, and the Jun use potential and mystic thurgy to empower artifacts that should not work.<br><br>Overall, the racial disconnect and reliance on magic has kept the broad technology of Ora at the late middle ages with a few caveats: Most people in civilized cities can read, disease is relatively uncommon, and health care (via common magics) is at an incomparable level. If not for all the wars and evil in the world, Ora might grow to become a truly great place with a fusion of technology and magic.<br><br><strong>Commoners</strong><br><br>As stated above, the average commoner could expect to live a long and relatively comfortable life (albeit without magic or wealth) if not for wars. Though they are poor, most commoners expect a solid level of care from local Druids, Clerics, or simply Gifted Healers. Not all care comes without a price, of course, but it is available. In addition, because the world is so old, knowledge of anatomy, biology, and chemistry is at a level several hundred years past the typical middle ages fantasy locale – healers can do much more than set bones, especially with a little magic to aid them.<br><br><strong>Distribution of Knowledge</strong><br><br>Most knowledge, like wealth, resides in the large cities and among the mercantile and wealthy class. The Bardic College, various Arcane Universities, and traveling scholars facilitate a broad availability of learning, provided commoners have the time and wherewithal to learn. Most communities of note are big enough to have school teachers of some sort within them; as a result, a certain (very basic) knowledge is known to most. This includes the basic laws of the land (don’t steal, don’t kill, etc.), along with how to read and write and some knowledge in the commoner’s area of life (a commoner might get advanced training in farming, for example).<br><br>Most people of a given race will know the dominant Gods of the geographic area they are from, along with a few specific laws. Because the Gods are considered Absent, however, God Worship has fallen into extreme disfavor among the mass populace. In cities with a temple or Cleric stationed there, this trend is reversed, but primarily because the Cleric can display real power, and not because the commoner’s genuinely love/admire the God the given individual represents.<br><br>It is not uncommon for someone who worships X God to enter a city and find out no one there has heard of the deity in question.<br><br><strong>Trade</strong><br><br>Trade is dangerous but very profitable. Most trade is concentrated among a few very wealthy merchants who guard their wagons well. Travel along long roads almost guarantees some form of assault, either by homeless bandits (from recent wars), rogues, or some sort of monster.<br><br>The least dangerous and most profitable form of trade has normally been by Sea, but there are troubles with that, now.<br><br><strong>Racial Distribution</strong><br><br>The majority of people in the Alliance are human, though the most populace race on Aeyun is the Shadow Legion, closely followed by the Chosen. No numbers are known of the other continents, though it is known that there may be as few as 100 Force Lords left alive, of which 20 or fewer are of the original stock.<br><br><strong>Dangers</strong><br><br>Ora is a world with a history of a series of evils, most of which were banished or suppressed but rarely defeated. Curses, ancient catacombs and lairs, unique and chaos-touched monstrosities, and impossibly tortured animals litter the landscape, in addition to the normal bandits and naughty “civilized” races.<br></div></div><br><div align="center"><strong>Character Template</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body"><strong>Name:<br>Race:<br>Class:<br>Age:</strong><br>I'm going to use an "effectiveness" scale to determine what situations will challenge your character and to show me where the characters should shine. Don't think of the numbers as "hard and fast" but guidelines that help everyone feel useful. <br><strong>Melee Combat Effectiveness:</strong> (Scale of 1-12, how capable is your character in a brawl or with weapons and armor?) Your character's total effectiveness should not exceed 27 between all four variables. <br><strong>Ranged Combat Effectiveness:</strong> (Scale of 1-12, how capable is your character with ranged weapons and in defending against them?)<br><strong>Magical Combat Effectiveness:</strong> (Scale of 1-12, how capable is your character with magic and in defending against it?)<br><strong>Healing Effectiveness:</strong> (Scale of 1-12, how capable is your character at healing?)<br><strong>Appearance:</strong> (An image will work at first, keeping in mind that I expect descriptiveness from participants and not reliance on image files)<br><strong> Exceptional Strengths:</strong> (How strong, fast, wise, intelligent, charismatic, durable, and lucky is your character?) Please have no more than 3 times the strengths as you have weaknesses; this campaign is not intended to be "God Mode"<br><strong>Notable Weaknesses: </strong>(What areas is your character weak in? Does he or she have a limp, an addiction to a rare drug, or are they weak willed, or slow?)<br><strong>Skills: </strong>(Standard D&amp;D skills apply (http://www.d20srd.org/indexes/skills.htm) with a few caveats: because we're writing and not actually playing D&amp;D, I allow players to be flexible, to create skills, and to allow them to do things they would not otherwise do. Spellcraft, for example, could be used to identify magical items or other wonky things)<br><strong>Special Abilities:</strong> (Please make these reasonable and of moderate power)<br><strong>Background: </strong>(Your background is personal and private; there's no need to share all the details of your career so far here when you can convey that in character to the other players. Include only a rough outline, along with reasons why you are adventuring.)<br></div></div><br><div align="center"><strong>Main Continent (Aeyun)</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body"><div align="center">(http://i945.photobucket.com/albums/ad295/Dariusfallenstar/Rp%20Scenario%20Pics/AeyunForum.jpg)</div></div></div><br><div align="center"><strong>Starting Location</strong></div><div align="center"><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">(http://i945.photobucket.com/albums/ad295/Dariusfallenstar/Rp%20Scenario%20Pics/DulonLandingForum.jpg)</div></div></div>
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				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>13-06-2012, 00:02:14</strong>
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				<div align="center"><strong>Common and Public Knowledge</strong></div><br>Here's what characters playing on the current continent would know, or have access to knowing.<br><br><strong>Major Events/Quest Hooks</strong> (Note: that these are available does not mean they are meant for players to investigate. Because this is a living world, stuff is going on all the time)<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Overview<br><br>Consider the following common knowledge:<br><br>At the end of the previous campaign, the Chosen War ended with the race establishing itself as a dominant force. Paradiel, God of Monsters, fled the scene and much of the old technology from the time of the Lords of Helios was suppressed far beneath the ground and beyond most people’s reach. The Shadow Legion has splintered; now possessing free will (and having separate genders, of sorts), the Legionnaires have begun defining their own territory and laws in relative isolation. With the heroes of the Chosen War to guard against the Weavers, the world seemed to be more or less quiescent.<br><br>Yeah, right.<br><br>Unfortunately, during their adventures, the heroes learned of an inclement draconic invasion, something that they were unable – or unwilling – to stop. In addition, the continent of Wai, home to the enigmatic Jun, has grown silent. Exports of consumable Maya sap, in the form of Gold Water, have shut down entirely. The only communications between Wai and the mainland are through the Monastery of the Fallen Star, run by the four-armed monk-hero said to have mastered the path of the Pivot. To the north and east, near Pervale, ships have been mysteriously vanishing. Reports are that Shadow Legionnaires still loyal to the ideals of Paradiel have been surveying that area.<br><br>Beyond these potentially significant events – the kingdom of Under, of the Dwarves, has continued to grow distant from the Empire. Slow trade, an issue for the last decade, continues and few, if any, dwarves are willing to admit the reasons why. If the heroes know, they aren’t telling. Perhaps something to do with the shattered Dwarven war machine? Relationships between the new Chosen King and Queen and the dwarves are terse, at best. The elven kingdom of Grace has closed its borders, minimizing trade, due to some sort of internal conflict that only natives know of.<br><br>On Pervale, land of the Golden Lords (also known as the Force Lords), an alliance has been struck between the Mind Flayers and the Beholders. Rumors from that island state that the two have banded together with an unknown third party to help a new generation of adventurers against a foe that threatens the world. Their methods, however, are more than a little questionable.<br><br>After their arrival via meteorite and the formation of their metallic island home, the Myregar have done relatively little expansion; there are no known ambassadors, no trade negotiations – nothing. Rumor has it, however, that part of the massive Dwarven war machine, destroyed years ago, had plans to mine out the riches of the foreigners, whether they liked it or not.<br><br>The Dragon Kingdoms – since renamed the Unaffiliated Commons (probably due to word of actual dragons…) has been happy and quiet with no issues. Isn’t that lovely?<br><br>Gathering – the island of Elementalists and Elemental Knights has seen a surge of power; apparently recent events in the realm of the Gods has further distanced the Gods and enhanced the sway of the elemental planes. This may influence elementally flavored classes and races world-wide, but – so far – no one knows for certain.<br><br>Dulona: The Dulosians remain in constant conflict with the land of undead to their south. Locked in endless war, the Dulosians are helpless to aid the other races and their alliances are tentative, at best.<br><br>Of the Weavers nothing is known. Ash, King of the Chosen, has since renounced most of his power (once again) and sent it after Paradiel. Word is that he is working on a permanent solution to stop the Weavers, and any number of other Extra-Planar threats from ever invading Ora again. We’ll see how that one goes…<br><br>•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Various factions of the Shadow Legion are hiring outsiders to assist them in military duty – holding land, fortifying locations, scouting, etc. The known factions are: The Diamond Spike, Dekal’s Hand, and the Might of The Legion.<br>•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;On Dulona the Mindflayers and Beholders are requiting adventurers for various “experiments” to “enhance them” against a coming enemy. They’ve somehow arranged for fliers to be placed everywhere in the major cities – however, next to them, are fliers suggesting adventurers stay away. <br>•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wai and Under are on virtual lockdown; no trade exists from either powerful nation.<br>•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accord is reliant on outside forces for aid; it needs help feeding and clothing its people. The massive city has been 60% rebuilt, but seeks architects, people with the ability to create things magically, or adventurers willing to use their Creation Stone visit to quest for gifts/artifacts to help rebuild and fortify the city. <br>•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Several posters offer public bounty on all Chosen heads – these posters are often put in plain view of the Chosen, who ignore them. The bounty starts at 50 gold for a child and goes up to 10,000 gold for a King or Queen, or any of the children of a King or Queen, no questions asked. A 10 million gold bounty is on the head of the Chosen King Ash. These posters are often removed by the local populace, but are quick to reappear. No one knows who is putting them up. <br>•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Myregar have not expanded or made connections with other races. <br>•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Elves have let everyone know they are under attack, but that they have the situation under control. They’ve continued trade but closed their borders. Approach carefully. <br>•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Chosen Queen Aralyn has made it public knowledge that a Dragon invasion is eminent – within the next 12 years, she claims. No further details have been provided. <br>•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Word of an Island appearing and disappearing to the North East has spread to most locations. <br>•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dulonia is at war with the Chosen; a relatively “peaceful” war that has gone on for the last 5 years with zero casualties. Few understand the motivation behind the war, but even among those few, no solution to the situation is obvious. <br></div></div><br><strong>Accord (Capital city of the humans, home of the Creation Stone)</strong><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Four years ago Accord was sieged by the near-combined might of the Shadow Legion for several months. The landscape was laid fallow by the most horrible of curses the army could muster – of which there were dozens. Over half the population was murdered, with the vast majority being in the low, or lower-middle class. Sixty percent of the city was also destroyed (primarily protective walls, infrastructure, and housing). <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At the end of the war the Shadow Legion simply vanished. Some in Accord believe that the Chosen ended the war, but most, including the head of the Council in Accord, vocally oppose this view. At the time of the Shadow War, there were no more than 30 Chosen left alive on the entire planet. Despite the sudden surge in Chosen population after the end of the war, there is, in the dissenter’s words, “No way in the Hells of Under that the Chosen could have stopped the Legion.” <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nevertheless, the new Chosen appeared within a month of the war and began offering aid to the city’s abused poor. The exact details of what was said is unknown, but the dissenters claim that the Chosen Queen offered the farmers of the city free room and board, in addition to prime real estate, in return for vacating the city. Eighty percent of the farmers left, forcing the already stressed city into an acute state of famine. Already on the brink of starvation from the siege, people began dying, even the rich.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A month later, the Chosen returned. This time baring food, casting spells to help provide the population with sustenance, cleaning some of the cursed land around the city, and assisting in the rebuilding process. Some people embraced the Chosen’s actions, but an equal amount questioned their interests: with the Creation Stone in Accord, keeping Accord safe makes perfect strategic sense. What if the Chosen wanted to take over the city?<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Three months into the “Chosen Occupation” (again, as the dissenters’ say), the Arch Elemental Mage Flameweaver brought in a large contingent of Blooded (estimates count them at around 3,000 – made sterile to keep them from breeding and “concerning” the people of Accord. The Blooded are also not considered citizens and have no access to the Creation Stone). He told the community that the Blooded came from the Old Wars, but that they were completely under his control and safe. To prove it, he demonstrated his ability to “program” simple skills into them; they could farm, help rebuild, even guard and police the city to some extent. Over the next year the Blooded became incorporated into almost all official city functions: most guard troupes function with 6 Blooded to 1 regular guard; the same can be said for the few existent farms around the city (Blooded do the grunt labor). <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Blooded now perform most, if not all, menial tasks for Accord with any volunteered Chosen contributions being rejected by the ruling Council. That said, the city still cannot feed its own (Blooded enhanced) and re-growing population, so it still accepts a Chosen presence and food assistance, albeit begrudgingly. <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accord is still in a state of disarray. The exterior wall and all of the most important dwellings in the city were rebuilt by the Chosen before the Blooded took over. Under the less skilled abilities of the Blooded reconstruction, particularly skilled reconstruction, has gone much slower. Entire quadrants of the city remain in rubble, tent housing, or dilapidated buildings that are unsafe to stay in. The “middle class” and up all have rebuilt buildings. Note: Middle class in this case means someone with skills, investments, or Gifts that produce revenue. <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ambassadors from other communities are re-joining Accord, including those who distrust the new Chosen power. This has somewhat enhanced the perception that Accord is aligning against the Chosen.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The presence of prophets and clergy in Accord is at relatively slow but stable levels. Word is that the Distant Gods are, well, still distant (if not more so), but that has not dramatically influenced Divine Powers or Premonitions that anyone knows. <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Adventuring Guild of Accord was destroyed but has been rebuilt as the front of the Bardic College (as it was before). The Guild is a skeleton of its former self, though it is known to have its funds supplemented by numerous external sources and thus is offering greater payouts to those who work through it. <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Merchants in Accord are doing surprisingly well. A large influx of population and investment from the Chosen and Flameweaver have made Accord seem to run with gold, attracting tones of goods – most of which is going to the aforementioned middle or upper class in the city. Unskilled labor has little chance in the city, other than to leave and go to Melk, where training is cheap or free (but only comes from the Chosen). In addition, the remnants of the Shadow Legion army have begun investing in the city in the form of reparations and cheap trade, unraveling their own curses, distributing food, and offering services. Their merchants often offer steep discounts, but are not solidly trusted: the Legion hasn’t unified under a single leader, so each merchant of the Legion is known to be out for his or her own. <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The temple holding the Creation Stone is as it has always been, save that it is now guarded by 2 Chosen, known as the Dread. Several citizens of Accord also aid in this (there’s almost a sense of rivalry), but there have been no incidents of the Dread mistreating anyone who deserved to enter the temple thus far. <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Mage University and the Bardic College are largely untouched, with a caveat: lack of a fresh influx of information has left both somewhat stagnant. They are mostly up-to-date as of 10 years ago, but lack in some of the most recent legends and lore. With the recent reparations payments of the Legion, the Bardic college is now offering high bounties on legends and lore that are verifiable. The Mage University is also hiring new teachers and offering high stipends to students and recruiters. It is well known that the remains of the previous University’s President and her Husband are on the premises with a massive reward for anyone capable of bringing them back. (Note: True Resurrections have a 91% chance to fail due to the inaccessible nature of the Divine planes for all souls who have passed over 24 hours. In addition, some have a more difficult time being brought back).&nbsp; <br></div></div><br><strong>Grace (Elven Kingdom) - Elves/Dryads Only</strong><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Elves and Dryads know that Grace is under siege off the cost, by some sort of underwater army. Members of the Elven kingdoms are encouraged to adventure and find the source of these attacks, perhaps even using others to assist them in this (though they request information about the war be minimized)</div></div><br><strong>Alternative Continents/Locations: Dulonia</strong><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body"><br>Dulonia is West of Aeyun by about two weeks journey by the most advanced ships. Part of a dual-continent, possibly fused together at some point in its history, the Dulonians are a people ruled by serene passion. A large race(compared to humans), the Dulonians have an innate supernatural ability to infuse their creativity and skill into anything that they do.<br><br>Their continent is well known for its aesthetic beauty; a true contrast to the lands south of it – rumored to be filled with the undead.<br><br>The Dulonians are currently at war with the Chosen for reasons unknown.<br></div></div><br><strong>Alternative Continents/Locations: Pervale</strong><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body"><br>Pervale is a small continent known to house the Force Lords. Their cities, founded around the time the Lords of Hell were banished, run on a unique substance that they call altrichar. Ancient and very powerful, the Force Lords are reclusive, domineering, and extremely powerful.<br><br>Force Lords are not known to breed true; their offspring, called “Imbued”, reflect but a shadow of their parents’ great powers.<br><br>South of the Force Lord capital, Iomed, the land is wild, dominated by massive beasts, Beholders, Mind Flayers, and other, even more dangerous, monstrous beings.<br><br>2 ranks in Knowledge: Pervale are required for details about its history.<br></div></div><strong><br>Alternative Continents/Locations: Wai</strong><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body"><br>Wai is a large continent near the equator, South and West of Dulona. Home of the mysterious and enigmatic Jun, Wai is one of the foremost producers of Maya sap and its related products (including a form of goldwater.<br><br>Practitioners of inscrutable politics and reality-twisting magic known as Potentialism, the Jun keep themselves aloof and distant from most other races.<br></div></div><strong><br>Alternative Continents/Locations: Gathering</strong><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body"><br>Gathering is a small continent north of Aeyun, and is the center of elemental disturbances on Ora. It is on Gathering that the Elementalists and Elemental Knights are at their prime; it is also on Gathering that elementals are vastly more dangerous.<br></div></div><br><br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>13-06-2012, 00:02:31</strong>
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				<div align="center"><strong>Approved Characters</strong></div><br>&nbsp;<div align="center">Corann, played by Dariusfallenstar </div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body"><strong>Race:</strong> Chosen<br><strong>Class: </strong>Knight of Esteron<br><strong>Age:</strong> 16 (appears to be more in his mid to late twenties)<br>&nbsp;<br><strong>Melee Combat Effectiveness:</strong> 12 <br><strong>Ranged Combat Effectiveness:</strong> 8<br><strong>Magical Combat Effectiveness:</strong> 5<br><strong>Healing Effectiveness:</strong> 2<br><strong>Appearance:</strong> <br><div align="center"><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">(http://i945.photobucket.com/albums/ad295/Dariusfallenstar/Corann.jpg)</div></div></div><strong> Exceptional Strengths:</strong> Corann is an exceptionally gifted Knight of Esteron; his martial capabilities are truly astonishing, allowing him to easily dispatch most armed and armored foes. <br><strong>Notable Weaknesses: </strong> Corann is self-sacrificing and single-minded. Loyal to a fault, he goes out of his way to destroy evil - often without thinking things through. He has minimal healing ability (his Will ability can bolster him some and his Ember blood allows him to naturally cast a few small healing spells), but otherwise relies on his hearty nature and extreme skill to get him through tough fights. Corann has little to no native spellcasting ability, preventing him from overcoming many foes in the World of Ora (at this point). <br><strong>Skills: </strong> Appraise, Balance, Climb, Concentration, Craft Weapons and Armor, Intimidate, Jump, Knowledge: Military Tactics, Listen, Move Silently, Search, Spellcraft (to identify spells only), Spot, Survival, Swim, and Tumble<br><strong>Special Abilities:</strong> Corann&nbsp; has a wellspring of "Will" that he can tap into to bolster himself. This wellspring is limited and there are only so many things he can do with it, most of which allow for sudden bursts of physical power or prowess. In addition, as an Ember of the Chosen, he has a naturally alluring sexuality that is irrepressible, despite how gruff and blunt he can be. <br><strong>Background: </strong> Corann's parents were very powerful Chosen royalty. Being one of an actual liter of other siblings, he's gone out into the world to carve a name for himself. Though he does not resent the shadow cast by his parents and relatives, he is acutely aware of the fact that he needs to do quite a bit to earn a true name and rank for himself. <br><strong>Equipment:</strong> Armed to the teeth, Corann has a number of exceptional (but otherwise non-magical weapons), extremely well crafted armor, and a bag of holding. He also possesses two pieces of his Artifice of Destruction and has his Artifice of Protection (which allows him to learn and adapt faster than others); these are incomplete magical artifacts hidden in the world for him to locate and earn via overcoming great challenges. He has little gold and may be extremely motivated by opportunities to acquire wealth or magical items. </div></div><br><br><div align="center">Hollywillow, played by AribethAmkiir</div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body"><strong>Name:</strong> Hollywillow<br><strong>Race:</strong> Dryad<br><strong>Class:</strong> Druid<br><strong>Age:</strong> 17<br><strong>Appearance:</strong><br><div align="center"><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">(http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j480/Erion2451/imagesqtbnANd9GcS9_OPu2UlXIEHWAEMAihAw7O4FwIHsbaYiD7B2cxE28OhQxSp7ww.jpg)</div></div></div><strong>Melee Combat Effectiveness:</strong> 4<br><strong>Ranged Combat Effectiveness:</strong> 6<br><strong>Magical Combat Effectiveness:</strong> 8<br><strong>Healing Effectiveness:</strong> 9<br><strong>Appearance:</strong> Alluring, and lithe, Holly embodies the sensual side of nature.&nbsp; A malleable, velvety soft, smooth grey bark acts as her skin and is only clothed with plants and vines tangled about her form with an innocent disregard for modest tastes.&nbsp; She adorns her changeable hair with flower blooms of pink, blue, and red.&nbsp; &nbsp;Her robin’s egg blue eyes shine with a promise of mirth and merriment which ultimately completes the seductive package.<br><strong>Exceptional Strengths:</strong> Holly is quick in the woods and forested areas, possesses an alluring charm, and a wisdom beyond her years.&nbsp; She is quite knowledgeable about nature, and is surprisingly durable and strong for her frail looking frame.<br><strong>Notable Weaknesses:</strong> If Holly is separated from her livewood staff, she grows deathly ill and if not reunited with it within 72 hours she will die.&nbsp; She is rather naïve and out of place in cities and prefers not to enter them.&nbsp; She is vulnerable to fire.<br><strong>Skills:</strong> Balance, Escape Artist, Handle Animal, Heal, Hide, Knowledge (nature), Listen, Move Silently, Ride, Spot, Survival, Use Rope<br><strong>Special Abilities:</strong> Entangle, speak with plants, tree shape, charm person, tree stride.&nbsp; She is capable of healing moderate wounds with a touch, or as a spell, and has access to a number of common druid spells.&nbsp; However, the cost of these spells drains her and she has a limit on the number of times she can cast before she becomes fatigued and must rest.&nbsp; Unlike most druids, Holly is unable to take on an animal form, as her unique physiology is incompatible with that type of magic.<br><br><strong>Background:</strong> Holly was born through a natural magic that even the elves can’t explain.&nbsp; Her first memories were of growing inside her bonded livetree.&nbsp; After a few years, when it grew large enough, Holly was able to step into the world, care, and protect her tree.&nbsp; She always had a curious and mischievous spirit and whittled away her younger days exploring as far as she could go, teasing the other trees, and playing with the animals.&nbsp; She led a tranquil, peaceful, and boring life.<br><br>The boredom faded away one day when a wizard came upon her tree.&nbsp; She fought valiantly against him, but was ultimately defeated.&nbsp; Instead of killing her, he had a grand experiment which he enacted.&nbsp; With his mystical arts he transformed her tree into a gnarled and twisted living staff.&nbsp; The magic twisted and warped Holly’s soul in a similar way.&nbsp; The wizard had hoped that she would remain bound to the staff and in extension be bound to him.&nbsp; Hate and anger filled Holly and when the wizard decided to command her, she moved to him without hesitation.&nbsp; Holly strangled the man on the spot and took her tree staff.<br><br>A druid found her wandering aimlessly not long after, and with a lot of patience and coaxing he gained her trust.&nbsp; In a way, the staff allowed Holly to do what she had always wanted, but on the other hand she felt she had failed as her tree’s guardian.&nbsp; The druid was kind and wise, and he helped Holly down another path.&nbsp; He took her as his pupil and trained her in the ways of a druid.&nbsp; She accepted the task of protecting the whole of nature and has done so ever since, ranging far from her birthplace to find those who would harm her Mother and punish them accordingly. <br></div></div><br><div align="center">Nemea, played by Arkhos </div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Name: Nemea Tamaska<br>Race: Elf (appears as a sub-race that is not easily identifiable)<br>Class: War Born<br>Age: 21 (Looks 21)<br>&nbsp;<br>Melee Combat Effectiveness: 10 (Specialized in Long Sword)<br>Ranged Combat Effectiveness: 4 (Minimally trained in the use of ranged weapons)<br>Magical Combat Effectiveness: 10 (Stealth magic/Misdirection/Illusion/Song magic)<br>Healing Effectiveness: 3 (able to craft bandages and other simple poultices) <br><br>Appearance: Nemea stands just over six feet tall and is built of lean, hard muscle. His pale-white skin is framed by long, straight white hair, causing many to think he is much older than he truly is. His handsome face is set with dark eyes that glow faintly red, betraying a hint of the magic (and drug addiction) that he harbors within. Pointed ears, when visible, confirm his heritage. He wears a mix of dark chain and plate armor, though the plate portions are extremely thin and not nearly as bulky as that worn by other races.<br><br>Picture:<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">(http://i1240.photobucket.com/albums/gg481/indytims/Nemea1.jpg)</div></div><br>Exceptional Strengths: <br><br>Nimble – Nemea is incredibly agile. He uses avoidance more than he does mitigation when it comes to combat. He would rather avoid a blow entirely than accept the blow and allow his armor to absorb it. His combat style is more akin to a dance, than it is to a true, traditional warrior. Intermixed with his magic use, he is a true force to be reckoned with in battle.<br><br>Exceptional Awareness – Nemea spent his life holed-up in a relatively small area until just recently. As such, small changes around him are almost instantly noted. Not only does he not require as much sleep as other elves, but it is very difficult to surprise or catch him unawares. In addition, if he concentrates for a short period of time, he becomes aware of fluctuations in nearby energies, magical influences and enchantments, spells, and powers.<br><br>Empathic – Nemea possesses an innate ability for empathy. Studying physiology during his long, long years locked up at home, he is able to read patterns of behavior and 'feel' general emotions of those within line of sight. This does NOT allow mind-reading, but merely just a general gauge of how a particular creature is feeling.<br><br>Notable Weaknesses: <br><br>Addiction – Drug. Nemea is addicted to a narcotic called 'Nightshade' amongst his people. His mother introduced it to him when he was young, as a way to 'enhance' their intimacy. The drug is considered a taboo, so this is not something he speaks about openly. The drug allows him to harness the powers of magic and mysticism with ease (which represent his scores, above). However, if going long periods of time without the drug he will suffer ill-effects. The drug works to suppress the regular nightmares that often suffers from, allowing him to master mind and body as an instrument of war - as long as he is under its influence. Without it, the nightmares return, his abilities suffer, he slowly becomes lethargic, and can eventually die.<br><br>Addiction – Sex. This addiction was gifted to him by his loving mother and her constant use of his body once he was old enough to please her. When enticed and the mood is set, it allows him to more easily avoid/control the nightmares that often plague him, offering temporary respite from the torture they provide. Going more than a few days at a time without intimacy causes extreme irritability. Much longer than a week, and he begins to plot taking it by force. At the extreme, going without intimacy will cause the nightmares to -worsen-. Nemea has absolutely no qualms with paying for it – or taking it by force, but only if absolutely necessary.<br><br>Linear Training – Martial. Nemea was extensively trained with only one type of weapon: the long sword. While able to use other types of weapons, of course, he is not as skilled in their use. His current 'ability' with a Long Sword is as posted. With any weapon OTHER than a Long Sword, his skill drops by 4 points.<br><br>Skills: Balance, Bluff, Climb, Concentration, Disable Device, Etiquette, Handle Animal (specifically – Horse), Herbalism, Hide, Intimidate, Move Silently, Open Lock, Perform, Ride, Search, Spellcraft, Sense Motive, Spot<br><br>Special Abilities: <br><br>Dream-Walking – Nemea has the ability to enter other people's dreams. To do so, the intended target must be asleep, Nemea must know the name of the person he is trying to contact, and the closer he is to the target, the stronger the effect. After a short period of concentration, Nemea can mentally appear to the target, converse with them, interact with them, etc. Depending on the situation, the target could be startled enough to awaken. i.e. Nemea 'attacks' the target in their dream, and though he can not actually harm them, he might be able to startle them enough to wake them up – causing lack of sleep, especially if repeated. The target can remember everything that happened during the dream. </div></div><br><div align="center">Soliria "Sol" Tulwar, played by Bloodiedporcelain<br></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body"><div class="floatright">(http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab235/bloodiedporcelain/elcharacterpics/childedit1.jpg)</div><strong>Name</strong>: Soliria “Sol” Tulwar a.k.a: Freak, Outsider, etc<br><strong>Race</strong>: Childe of Greatness<br><strong>Class</strong>: Imprinter<br><strong>Age</strong>: 16<br><br><strong>Melee Combat Effectiveness</strong>: 3<br><strong>Ranged Combat Effectiveness</strong>: 6<br><strong>Magical Combat Effectiveness</strong>: 12<br><strong>Healing Effectiveness</strong>: 6<br><br><strong>Appearance</strong>: Petite and delicate, Sol stands barely a hair over 5 feet (and many who have seen her without a hood up to hide her appearance wonder if perhaps that extra inch or so isn't just hair). Her eyes are mismatched, one a bright blue, almost teal, while the other is a much deeper shade. Her skin seems to shift colors, occasionally a pale tan shade, but in certain light, it appears nearer to ivory, and her markings look silvered instead of gold. Her hair is much the same, looking white in most lights, though other lighting exposes pale shades of silvery blue that almost makes her hair seem some sort of living thing when she moves. She sports several piercings in her pointed, elfish ears, and her clothing of choice is usually comprised of whatever suits her surroundings topped with either robes or cloaks with large oversized hoods to hide her features when pulled down. <br><br><strong>Exceptional Strengths</strong>: More than anything, and perhaps not even a “strength” in some situations, Soliria seems to always know more than anyone should about the people and situations going on around her. Blessed with a unique gift of insight, as if she sees things others cannot. When putting to use her unique skills, Soliria is able (and often it seems as if she doesn't have a choice in this) to reach an eerie level of calm, as if the entire world and everything around her falls away. This is of course a strength for those of her “profession”, as it requires an extreme amount of attention to detail and focus, but can also be just as much of a weakness. Her keen insight and intellect also gives her an unusually sharp mind for the arcane arts. Though she may not always be able to cast the spells, she usually understands them quite well. <br><br><strong>Notable Weaknesses</strong>: The most prevalent weakness Solfiria has is her psychosis. Though in passing when she does not have to speak up often it is not as noticeable and she simply comes off as “quirky” or “odd”, prolonged exposure to the delicate, outlandish beauty makes it quite obvious that something's “not quite right about Sol”. She is prone to extreme mood swings and personality shifts, and has a difficulty clearly communicating with those around her, often speaking in riddles. More than once in her lifetime, this inability to express herself clearly has made her unique insight a moot-point, as she found herself unable to get her message across clearly enough or in enough time. She has little to no martial skill, only barely being able to defend herself in a haphazard manner, she lacks the strength to lift most of the heavier weapons such as long swords or axes. Achluophobia (fear of the dark). <br><br><strong>Skills</strong>: Concentration (this largely only applies to when she is imprinting someone), Decipher Script, Listen, Heal, Spot, Spellcraft (the ability to make on-the-fly, unique imprints for those she's working on), Knowledge (though she hasn't read very much or been given special classes in anything, Sol has a unique ability to pick up on the things going on around her, remembering even minute details), Sense Motive<br><br><strong>Special Abilities</strong>: <br><br><em>Soul-Sight</em>: The ability to see potential previously unknown strengths and powers in those around her. By growing close to them and bonding herself to them via sexual contact, she has the potential to help bring these strengths and powers to light (This ability is almost entirely GM controlled)<br><br><span class="bbc_u">Imprint-Given Abilities</span>: <br><br><em>Mark of Binding</em>: This mark, located on both her palms, allows Sol to render any target she touches completely immobile for up to four hours, though she can end the effect sooner, and a lack of concentration when using the ability may cause the ability to be less potent. <br><br><em>Mark of Calm</em>: When activating this mark, located just beside her right ear, near her cheek, Sol has the ability to potentially calm any living being around her, be they animal or otherwise. The effectiveness and duration of the ability is at the GM's discretion. <br><br><em>Mark of Dark Vision</em>: This mark is located between her eyes and resembles a downward facing sun. When activated, this mark allows Sol to see in complete darkness, and has the potential to alleviate or reverse the effects of magically created blindness. <br><br><em>Mark of Muting</em>: Located just below her lips, this mark allows Sol to quiet, and potentially mute, a single living being for up to 10 minutes. <br><br><em>Mark of Silence</em>: Located on her right cheek, this mark allows Sol to quiet, if not silence, her own movements for up to 2 minutes. <br><br><em>Mark of Forgetfulness</em>: Located on her left cheek, this ability allows Sol to cause a single target to temporarily forget a particular event or person. The duration and effectiveness of this ability varies based on the complexity of the alterations to the target's memory. <br><br><em>Mark of Language</em>: Located between her shoulders and just below her neck, this mark allows Sol to temporarily understand and speak a single language so long as she has heard at least a small amount of it within an hour of activating her mark. <br><br><em>Mark of Blending</em>: Located on the tops of her fingers, this mark allows Sol to temporarily blend in to a crowd, causing those around her to simply overlook her presence for up to 3 minutes. The effectiveness and duration of this ability can vary depending upon Sol's mental state (is she calm, is she frightened, is she focused, is she easily distracted?) and can only be used once per day. <br><br><strong>Background</strong>: Solfiria lived a painfully sheltered life as a child, kept away from everyone and everything, her father even going so far as to keep her a secret from others. After her family's sudden abandonment of her early in her teenage years, she was forced to live on her own, traveling from one place to the other, doing her best to blend in and struggling to survive. Around the age of 14, she became apprenticed to an Imprinter in a large city and began to learn her trade. Shortly after turning 16, her Master found her presence no longer as desirable as it was once, her psychosis making it difficult for him to be around her. Using the excuse that she would learn better from others, he convinced Sol to strike out on her own once more, and she has been wandering ever since.<br></div></div><br><div align="center"> Rianna Steelshade played by Niki315</div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body"><strong>Name: </strong> Rianna Steelshade<br><strong>Race: </strong> Human<br><strong>Class:</strong>&nbsp; Swordmage<br><strong>Age: </strong> 23<br><br>Melee Combat Effectiveness:&nbsp; 12 <br>Ranged Combat Effectiveness: 1<br>Magical Combat Effectiveness: 11<br>Healing Effectiveness: 3<br><br>Appearance: Rianna Pic (http://elliquiy.com/wiki/File:Fpic22.jpg)<br><br><br>Exceptional Strengths: <br><br>Sword Bond - Rianna's training has created a bond with her ancestral sword.&nbsp; She always knows where it is (or the general direction if it's more than a mile away), and she is capable of summoning it into her hand.&nbsp; The summoning works from any range as long as it is not in possession of someone else or otherwise contained.&nbsp; In addition, rather than using a staff or wand to aid in her casting, her sword doubles as her implement granting her the ability to use flourishes as somatic components for the spells she casts.&nbsp; At the beginning of any battle where she has the opportunity, she will perform a flourish to activate her defenses as part of a ceremonial opening.<br><br>Swordmage Style - Rianna is extraordinarily skilled at combining her arcane abilities with her martial style.&nbsp; She can combine spells into viciously damaging strikes with her weapon causing her to be extremely dangerous and intimidating in battle.<br><br>Merciless Blade - Rianna's sword is made from an ancient process and imbued with the blood of her ancestors.&nbsp; Her sword is harder to break and far more capable at breaking other weapons than should be possible.<br><br>Emergency Energy Storage - In the event that she has expended all her mana and must continue the use of her magical defenses, she can activate a gem that she has previously charged with energy to grant her another minute to 10 minutes (depending on the quality of the gem).&nbsp; These gems are extremely expensive and are destroyed in the process of releasing the energy.<br><br>In addition to the above strengths, she has an advanced understanding of most magic and whether she can cast a spell or not can usually identify what spell is being cast, or what spell is needed to counter.&nbsp; <br><br>Notable Weaknesses: <br><br>Sword Bond Reliant - Rianna's ability is heightened when using her own sword, a sword that she has spent countless hours attuning herself to.&nbsp; Without her specific sword she has difficulty imbuing her spells into her weapons reducing her Magic effectiveness by 3 for combat.&nbsp; Her knowledge of it does not change.<br><br>Magic Reliant - In the first 10 seconds of battle, Rianna must charge up her defenses.&nbsp; To walk around in her combat spells all the time would be incredibly fatiguing and detrimental to any social situation.&nbsp; Her melee abilities are assumed to be reduced by 2 for the first 10 seconds of any combat.&nbsp; In situations where she is unable to cast spells to improve her reflexes and increase her damage, Rianna's Melee effectiveness is reduced by 6.&nbsp; In addition, when in combat, Rianna uses speed enhancing spells causing her body to move faster than she can think. This may cause her to attack an ally if they startle her.&nbsp; Not quite a bloodlust or rage, it is more of haste-like effect that gives her her blinding speeds.<br><br>Honor Code - Rianna's teachings require a strict honor code which she must follow.&nbsp; Among the rules are eschewing ranged combat, never attacking a civilian, never attacking an unaware opponent, etc..&nbsp; Though there are no actual ill effects for breaking her honor code, Rianna is so dependent on it that she would have very strong feelings of depression if she did.<br><br>Armor Restrictions - Rianna wears very little armor to allow for the magic ever-present in the world to seep in through her skin.&nbsp; For battles that persist for long durations she must lower her magical armor for a period to recharge her magical energy.&nbsp; During this time, though no physical change is apparent (without magical detection) she is extremely vulnerable.&nbsp; It takes approximately 10 minutes to expend her maximum storage, and a minute for minute recovery time to recharge. If she is fighting against droves of trivial enemies, she may forgoe the use of some of her abilities and extend her basic mana usage across 30 minutes.&nbsp; Even if her mana is restored, this does not mean that she can fight unfatigued;&nbsp; she gets tired just like anyone else would.<br><br>In addition to the above weaknesses, despite her in-depth knowledge of magic, her spell repitoire is rather lacking.&nbsp; She can cast most simple spells that would qualify her as a magician, but the majority of her spells serve to improve her skill as a melee fighter.&nbsp; Any ranged spells she should be able to cast are instead channelled into her sword strikes.&nbsp; She is not very charismatic, but when in battle can be downright horrifying to behold.<br><br>Skills: Rianna is skilled at climb, jump, swim, spellcraft, knowledge arcana, knowledge nobility, decipher script, and concentration. Though she is not trained in intimidation she gains a circumstance bonus against those who have witnessed her in battle.<br><br>Special Abilities: <br><br>Aeres Relinsa (Mana Advantage) - A rare ability among the people of her land is the ability for magicians to siphon mana from the very air around them.&nbsp; When a child is determined to have this gift, they are immediately sent to the Academy to hone their Arcane skills and to ingrain an honor code in them early.&nbsp; The honor code is to protect the people from the sheer villainy that can result from magicians that abuse this power.&nbsp; Those with an aptitude for martial arts are trained to become Arcane Champions, swordmages with a fearsome reputation.<br><br>Background: Rianna was born of the daughter of a lesser noble family and an exceptional fighter who won the right to her mother's hand. The noble family was known as researchers of the arcane, so it was not strange for Rianna to have access to magic at a young age.&nbsp; She was only six when she was discovered to have Aeres Relinsa.&nbsp; She spent one more week with her family before being sent to the academy.&nbsp; She was one of the youngest students and spent her years perfecting the arts.&nbsp; Seeing as how she remembers very little of her life before the Academy, her honor code is deeply ingrained her, and she has never broken her code.<br></div></div><br><br><br><div align="center"><strong>Retired/Absent</strong></div><br><div align="center">Callista, played by Sol Luna</div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Name: Callista<br>Race: Sarard<br>Class: Pledged Assassin<br>Age: 21<br>Melee Combat Effectiveness: 11<br>Ranged Combat Effectiveness: 8<br>Magical Combat Effectiveness: 6<br>Healing Effectiveness: 1 (potion crafting)<br>Appearance: <br><div align="center"><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">(http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/s465/SolLua159/animationanimeartbeautifulcutegirl-64ea0219df9a8ab8028f7a170572ff08_h.jpg)</div></div></div><br>Exceptional Strengths: High speed, evasion, and accuracy.&nbsp; Knowledgable about alchemy and poisons.<br><br>Notable Weaknesses: Frail to direct blows (low Con), vulnerable to holy/light attacks<br><br>Skills: Balance, Bluff, Climb, Craft (Alchemy), Disguise, Escape Artist, Hide, Jump, Listen, Move Silently, Open Lock, Perform, Search, Slight of Hand, Spot, Tumble, Use Rope.&nbsp; ((Perform and Use Rope should come in handy :) ))<br><br>Special Abilities: <br>Ability: Shadowform- Becomes insubstantial for 30 seconds 3 times per day.&nbsp; Able to drift slowly in any direction, but not through solid obstacles.&nbsp; Affected by wind and unable to end the effect prematurely.<br>Magic Item- Soul Eater- Magical Dagger with Ghost Touch and Blood Drinking (restores a small amount of health when dealing damage), possible hidden powers for further development.<br><br>Background: Born in the Shadow Lands, Callista grew up learning the ways of the knife from her mother, and the secrets of alchemy and poisons from her Father.&nbsp; When she was a young teen, her parents smuggled her out of the Shadow Lands, leaving her far to the north in Dulon Landing without explanation.&nbsp; It was the last time she had seen either of them.&nbsp; Able to pass closely enough as a human, she spent her first years thieving in the streets, making her way from town to town to avoid people realizing what she was.&nbsp; <br>Then the day came when she stole from the wrong man, and was caught by a Master Assassin.&nbsp; Rather than kill her, he seemed amused by her and decided to take her on as an apprentice, allowing her to continue honing her craft with a skilled teacher.&nbsp; Eventually, she began taking jobs and travelling on her own, always listening for stories from the Shadow Lands, the home she only distantly remembered.&nbsp; Each contract honed her skills, bringing her closer to the day she could venture south and find the answers she needed.<br></div></div><br><div align="center"> Briar Singh played by Nom De Plume </div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body"><strong>Name:</strong> Briar Singh<br><strong>Race:</strong> Jun<br><strong>Class:</strong> Jack of all Trades (Ideal: The Level Playing-Field.)<br><strong>Age:</strong> 34<br><strong>Melee Combat Effectiveness:</strong>&nbsp; 8<br><strong>Ranged Combat Effectiveness:</strong> 11<br><strong>Magical Combat Effectiveness:</strong> 4<br><strong>Healing Effectiveness:</strong> 4<br><strong>Appearance:</strong> <br>Standing an impressive (for a Jun) five foot ten, Briar is getting on in years. Slight bags under his eyes, the laugh lines etched into his face, and other marks all point to his advancing age. The evidence does little to detract from his looks, though; the lines have only added nobility to Briar's otherwise sculpted features. His physique is that of a man a decade younger, built tough and wiry through action rather than excercise. He is dotted with the scars of past adventures, telling of a man agile enough to avoid most, though not all, blows.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body"><div align="center">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/0/01/Briar.png)</div></div></div><br><strong>Exceptional Strengths:</strong> <br>&nbsp; <em>The Polymath</em>: A thief, a scholar, a merchant, an athlete; Briar is all these things, and more. His mind is a vast repertoire of obscure knowledge, advanced skills and surprising intellect. He goes beyond the high adaptability of other Jacks by understanding, at a fundemental level, his various skillsets. Whatever he does not know-- which, he still admits, is quite a bit-- he learns with surprising efficacy.<br><br>&nbsp; <em>The Affable Rogue</em>: Briar is particular among the Jun for his open, charismatic nature. Although he rarely reveals much of himself, he can quickly cajole another into spilling their life stories-- and potentially embarassing secrets. He is everyone's good friend, the happy patron of all taverns, and a merchant's favorite customer. Rarely does he show his underlying abrasiveness, although he does offer the occasionally poignant retort.<br><br>&nbsp; <em>The Bowman</em>: Dangerous at a distance, Briar's prefered weapon is the ever accurate, ever deadly longbow. He makes use of a composite model with a lensed sight, for extra punch and accuracy at range.<br><br><strong>Notable Weaknesses:</strong> <br>&nbsp; <em>Magiisensitive Epilepsy</em>: Briar suffers from epileptic fits caused by certain magical effects. If the cast spell is liable to cause bright, flickering lights and is directly in Briar's line of sight, he becomes sick and disoriented, and must avert his gaze or be overtaken by convulsions. These often cause him to drop to the ground, possibly causing further injury. Because of this, Briar is incapable of casting high-visibility spells himself, which includes most offensive spells (namely, evocations.) Mundane lights have no effect; nor does magic performed in his peripheral vision, allowing spellcasters in the party to act accordingly.<br><br>&nbsp; <em>Angry Mob</em>: A side-effect of his nature and primary ideal, Briar has treaded on the toes of certain institutions, licit or otherwise. They would <em>very</em> much like to return the favor, and maybe add a couple of broken kneecaps for good measure. They exist in most major cities, especially Accord. These groups are specifically the ones who have seen his face-- either he did not have or could not use the <em>Ring of A Thousand Faces</em>-- though some others may recognize his voice, or a piece of equipment such as his bow, or even the ring itself.<br><br><strong>Skills:</strong><br>&nbsp; Briar is competent in all skills, with certain exceptions: he has a general craft skill, for jury-rigging equipment repair, though he cannot construct anything from scratch (at least, nothing worthwhile;) he is not skilled in any proffession (although he is a capable performer of spoken word in all it's forms;) and he suffers penalties to Spellcraft and Use Magic Devices where his weakness is applicable. He knows several languages, including Common and The Path. His knowledges are many, but generalized; everything a man may pick up in the years of travel with a dozen different adventurers.<br><br><strong>Special Abilities:</strong> <br>&nbsp; <em>Ring of A Thousand Faces</em>: An old piece of jewlery, the <em>Ring of A Thousand Faces</em> allows Briar to assume the appearance of an average man of a chosen, humanoid race. When worn, it acts as a permanent (until removed) <em>Alter Self</em> spell, with the following exceptions: the chosen form must closely resemble the wearer's race (therefore, a Jun can change into an elf, a Chosen, or any vaguely human race, but not into, say, a lizardfolk,) can be no more than a foot taller or shorter than the wearer's height, and must be the wearer's gender. Briar can use this item to disguise himself as someone else who fits the limitations, but must have had the opportunity to closely study them. Barring this, he can approximate and use his skills of disguise to imitate, though it will never pass the keen eye of a more familiar party.<br><br>&nbsp; The ring appears as a very wide, dull gold band, with hundreds of small, anonymous faces etched and molded into its surface. It quickly becomes difficult to look at, making unacclimated viewers uncomfortable. The faces shift place every time it is put on, though the ring remains recognizable.<br><br>Known Spells: Haste, Invisibility, True Strike, Speak with Animals, Create Water, Message<br><br><strong>Background:</strong> <br>&nbsp; Befallen of some unspoken tragedy in his native lands, Briar long ago journeyed to the continent of Aeyun to shed his old life. Here, he could excercise his capabilities to aid those unfortunates in need. Always on the move, Briar travels from countryside village to port town, from desecrated battlefield to large city; he has seen much of what this place has to offer, although certainly not all. Though he treads in dangerous waters, Briar constantly strives against the established order. If that occasionally means he gets to indulge himself in mischief and self-service, than so be it.</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>13-06-2012, 00:03:28</strong>
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				Reserved to record pivotal character actions and any upgrades/powers/items of significance that characters have earned.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>13-06-2012, 23:41:47</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Reserved.<br><br><br>Much cleanup and organizational work done. Still seeking at least 1 additional player with a preferably male character (I don't care about the gender of the player at this point)
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				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>14-06-2012, 08:57:25</strong>
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				<div align="center">Area Events</div><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In the five years since the end of the Shadow War, humans have struggled to rebuild. After suffering catastrophic losses and the withdrawal of aid from all but the Collective Commons (consisting of Brial, Elecrians, Gnomes, Nixies, Pixies, etc.) the human race is holding its breath and has turned to the most powerful among its ranks to ensure that it isn’t snuffed out or dominated utterly by the Chosen or other antagonistic forces. <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Flameweaver was elected head of the Council of Accord some time ago, but has recently vanished, leaving a vacuum of power and all humans north of the desolate Grey Lands feeling vulnerable and uneasy. The Blooded, the clone-like military Flameweaver controlled and used to protect and maintain the human lands, have become free-minded in his absence. Some have splintered off, becoming brigands, while others have become adventurers or continued what they were doing before; albeit, for pay now. On top of the issues with the Blooded, predators have begun flowing north to take advantage of the situation. It is not entirely uncommon for humans, drow, and others, including monsters, from the south to wander north and attack human settlements.&nbsp; <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Traveling anywhere north of the Durus Mountains is, therefore, unsafe. <br><br><div align="center"><em>GM note for all players:</em></div><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Use the above information as you see fit. Feel free to consider this a prompt to include brigands and odd monsters in your posts, should you desire. Few, if any, will be traveling with riches or treasure though. <br><br><div align="center"><strong>Starting City</strong></div><br><div align="center">Map (forgive how crude it is)</div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">(http://i945.photobucket.com/albums/ad295/Dariusfallenstar/Rp%20Scenario%20Pics/DulonLandingGM.jpg)</div></div><br><strong>Current time of year:</strong> Spring<br><strong>Current Environment: </strong>Cloudy/storms rolling in from off the ocean. The waves are constantly choppy. <br><br>The following information is available to anyone who asks around, so feel free to weave it into your play as you wish. See the map as a reference:<br><br><strong>Overview:</strong> Dulon Landing is a relatively small dock town that has been mostly (over half way) rebuilt due to its nature as the primary port to Dulonia. As a port town loyal to Accord, Dulon Landing is (mostly) a sleepy place, thanks in part to the combined efforts of Magistrate Hari and the Water Elementalist Siara with her Elemental Knights Tuzen (Water) and his wife, Elemental Knight Miko (Earth). Together, along with a few volunteers, they keep the town relatively safe – however, they do not have the resources to worry about the area outside of the town.<br><br>Plot Hook: <div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Blood Elf Invasion: A few months ago a group of blood elves rolled through the area. They were deflected by Hari and Siara, but they’ve taken residence in the olive groves about 15 miles south of the town. These blood elves appear to be batshit insane, but recent reports state that a group of adventurers have severely culled their numbers. </div></div>Plot Hook:<div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body"> Mysterious Tree: Word is that Charles Larluck often took trips south of town to investigate a mysterious tree; no one knows what for, but some believe he got his greatest wealth (and perhaps subsequent murder) from that location. </div></div><br><div align="center"><strong>People and major venues in the city</strong></div>Note: the city has a fairly sizable population, mostly of humans, many of whom are fishermen. There are relatively few homeless, though there are piles of debris around the city, where destroyed buildings have been moved. <br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Magistrate Hari: Magistrate Hari is a wizened old assassin, once disciple of the Great Steel Shadow. He makes his heritage and training known, going so far as to have several objects of power in his home that he says were once owned by the Steel Shadow (Shadowy boots, mithril weapons and armor, all blackened, tools of an assassin, scales of rare beasts, all on display). Hari himself seems a worn down man who carries no visible weapons. He keeps the peace in the town and would be obliged if the adventurers would help with a few issues in and around the place. <br><br>Sal’s Seaside Trade: Sal does everything. A dark-skinned Indian-looking man, he’s a profiteer originally from Trumviral. A multi-disciplinarian, Sal dabbles in everything (Jack of All Trades) and knows enough to make himself useful in many situations. He is also the town blacksmith for all needs that aren’t associated with his Shipwright business. <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sal’s Trade acts as both general store and conveyer of many mysterious and highly collectible art pieces. <br><br>Bold Bison Inn: The Bold Bison Inn is administered by a half Giant half Ogre named Boris. His wife, Bree, is a Half-ogre Golem. Given the nature of the proprietors, the Inn is proportioned to allow large beings in and out, but most of the furnishings inside are for regular-sized people.&nbsp; <br><br>Larluck Family: The LarLuck family (Head of Household Charles Larluck) was a dying dynasty. Rumors have it that a group of adventurers recently cleaned the house out, including ghosts occupying it. <br><br>Praetor Family: The Praetor family oversees almost all of the mercantile business in the city, now that the LarLucks are gone. The head of the Praetor household is Nancy Praetor – she rules her growing trade empire with her “body servant” Mer Ungin, an aging War Born and her multitude of children. <br><br>Envoy T’Charlon: Dulosian Trade Envoy to the city. <br><br>Elementalist Siara: Siara has lived in Dulon Landing for years. The town’s “Weather Witch”, she consults the seas, sea creatures, and acts as a midwife for the citizens. She also studies the movements and efforts of the war to the north while protecting the town from “highly visible” threats. <br><br>Melton’s Brothel: Melton’s Brothel is run by Melton Rosemond, a surprisingly affable and charismatic Nightmare Elf . The brothel has mostly young human women and boys, but also has a variety of other races available for the right price.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Melton is a notorious gambler and was known to gamble with Charles Larluck. <br><br>The Dock and Shipwright Sal’s: The dock is a mostly-reconstructed affair with two long piers for Dulonian trade ships and multiple smaller ones for local fishers and small-time merchants. Shipwright Sal’s is a massive complex of interconnected buildings where new ships are built and old ones are retrofitted – the place smells pretty awful. <br><br>Gravegraw’s Port Authority: Gravegraw is an ex-pirate with ties to the smuggling and illegal trade community. Mostly on the up-and-up now, he has one of the only Blooded in the town (Charsi) in his employee. </div></div><br><div align="center"><strong>Callista Only Notes</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Callista, you know that Hari was trained by the great Steel Shadow (he doesn’t hide the fact at all). In him, you see a prospective trainer, ally, or any number of other opportunities. Should you want into an elite assassin’s guild, he might be the man to talk to. In addition, you’ve learned through your contacts that there may be opportunities for an assassin to freely improve his or her skills in the area, as the blood elves are open sport. In addition to these hooks, you may have your own motivations for being here.<br></div></div><br><div align="center"><strong>HollyWillow Only Notes</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Hollywillow, you come from Grace, just north of the city. You believe that the mechanism that has allowed the great elven war to last so long may reside near Dulon Landing (shortly after a mammoth creature was spotted nearby the war began). Though elven mages and oracles have been unable to discern whether or not the events are related you may still have faith. You know of an elven man currently in the city who does, Cucordin Howe. In addition, there’s said to be a local Stone Druid, who may provide you with additional insight into your druidic nature. Also, there are numerous local horses, recently freed from captivity, who may need your succor. In addition to these hooks, you may have your own motivations for being here.</div></div><br><div align="center"><strong>Nemea Only Notes</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Nemea, you know that Dulon Landing may have the key to obtaining the Elven artifact and have been directed here by your mother as the first place to search. You’ve traveled nearly two weeks by boat to dock on location. You know that the elves have already scoured the location, due to events associated with the time of the beginning of the war happening nearby (the sighting of a mammoth creature just north of the city), but your mother has told you she had a vision and is determined to see you off. In addition to your mother’s whims, you know that being in the town grants you access to a variety of other locations and peoples and is far from the grasp of your own kind. Other players haven’t been as strong armed into the location as you. I’m a little sorry. Promise.</div></div><br><div align="center"><strong>Sol Only Notes</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Sol, a great storm raged through the land recently and it drew out your nature, leading you away from judgmental, suffering humanity and monstrous events in Accord to Dulon Landing. The trek has not been easy: it’s taken you months, literally, to travel there, mostly by foot. You’ve been wise, kept out of sight of any who might harm you, and lucked out, finding what you needed to survive along the way. Though Dulon Landing has nothing overt and obvious for you, you do know that the Dulosians, currently at war with the Chosen, are supernatural artisans and you may be able to hone your unique skills from their kind. Other players haven’t been as strong armed into the location as you. I’m a little sorry. Promise.</div></div><br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>14-06-2012, 09:37:18</strong>
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				<div align="center"><strong>Corann Character Post</strong></div><div align="center"><div class="codeheader">Code: <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="return smfSelectText(this);" class="codeoperation">[Select]</a></div><pre style="margin: 0; padding: 0;"><code class="bbc_code">Time of day beginning post: Early Morning<br>Time of day ending post: Around Noon<br>Location beginning post: South-West of Town, near the Durus Mountains<br>Location ending post: Just outside Sal's<br>Characters currently interacting with: None<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no): No. </code></pre></div><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Corann stood with a powerful resoluteness about him, as though the weight of the world would crush his broad shoulders should he falter. Tall, almost seven feet, the Chosen came across as lithe and lanky, despite his overt muscularity. Wearing a shirt of flowing, eye-catching emerald, pants of some off-yellow color, and a garish purple wrist-band, all topped with steel-colored boots, he might have mistaken for a popinjay. Of course, in order to see his clothes or build, a viewer would have to get around the small arsenal he was carrying.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A massive sword, even compared to the cat-eyed man, ran sideways across his back. Two more swords, slender, slightly curved, sat on each hip. Across his chain-and-leather woven armored overshirt (around which only the sleeves of his bright undershirt were visible) were straps holstering half a dozen daggers and short swords were attached via odd-looking devices at each thigh. He had no backpack, but a rune-covered pouch at his hip suggested that the adventurer had a bag of holding or something similar. <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oddly, he didn’t jingle like bundle of coins when he walked, but it was evident by the quality of equipment he wore that he probably had at some point, prior to earning enough resources to afford sound-proofing the cacophony he should have, no doubt, been creating. <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In the distance, from the grove of olive trees he walked from, Corann could make out heavy storm clouds whipping at the horizon, over turbulent water flanking the city of Dulon Landing. Nearby, perhaps a mile or two across a straight stretch of land between trees, he could see Blood Elves moving amongst themselves. Too many for him to take alone. Sensuous lips pursing, the Chosen went on, long, even steps carrying him toward the town, his platinum-blond hair flowing freely around his shoulders, the tips catching his angular cheekbones and regularly flashing before his yellow-red colored, slitted irises. <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He arrived at the town less than an hour later and the sun was rolling up, closer to mid-day as he strode into the disgustingly human town. The place had no wall, no fortifications around it, and refuse was visible crowding the area north of the town. No Chosen would stand such a thing. Most of the people moving within the city seemed to have a certain purpose to them, as dock-towns often do, and he caught the scent of salty fish as he made his way to the road leading out of the town, presumably back toward Accord. The road was paved, but pock-marked and covered in excrement - probably horse or pig. It made him want to turn his lip up, just a bit. Still, despite it all, the Ember Chosen put on his best smile, one that warmed his too-handsome features to something decidedly sexual and made nice with the locals. A woman wearing something akin to a flower-covered sack reeled at him, staring at weapons, then impossibly bright clothes, before stammering fevered answers to his questions. Yes there was a general store. Yes it sold clothes. <br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Thanking the woman, Corann made his way toward Sal’s. <br><br>GM Note on the Chosen:<br>Everyone knows that the Chosen, as a race, are both militant and innately supernatural warriors. How they obtain their powers and what laws they obey are a mystery to outsiders. Many among the humans see them as manipulative and evil, while others see them as well-intending threats. <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bloodied Porcelain</strong> on <strong>14-06-2012, 10:59:25</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab235/bloodiedporcelain/elcharacterpics/childedit1.jpg)</div><em>Solfiria Character Post</em><br><strong>Time of day beginning post</strong>: Dawn<br><strong>Time of day ending post</strong>: Noon<br><strong>Location beginning post</strong>: 2 Hours from town, along the road<br><strong>Location ending post</strong>: Outside Sal's<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with</strong>: Corann(maybe?), anyone near by<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?</strong> No.<br><hr><br><em>Storm clouds roiled over head, the wind whipped at Sol's hair, making it dance wildly, tangling it around her long pointed ears and the intricate gold chains and hoops that hung and jangled from her ear lobes. She stood there, completely bare beneath a sheer white gown that clung to her supple form. It draped itself around her full breasts, hung from around her wide, child-bearing hips, and danced gracefully in long strips around her shapely legs as her bare feet rested upon soft, lush grass. Toes curled and flexed in the grass as she stood there, looking up at the dark clouds, not bothered by their threatening near-black hue or the way lightning snapped within their confines. Thunder chased the bolts and still she did not flinch, her arms at her sides, her carved face tilted up toward the heavens, feeling the wild wind as it blew her hair in to her eyes, the silver-blue and white strands dancing in to her field of vision. <br><br>Every mark on her body seemed to tingle with latent energy as the air around her grew more and more potent with the energy of the storm overhead. A deep breath was drawn in, and as she let it out, the clouds gave way, pouring rain down in driving sheets. It hit her skin with the force of projectiles fired from a well-aimed slingshot but she didn't flinch. In fact, as her face tilted up to meet the driving droplets of water, she let out a sound not of pain... but of pleasure. Soaked through in seconds, her dress was little more than a flimsy memory of it's once shimmering beauty, and her hardened nipples showed clearly through it. She felt her heat clench and a shudder went through her as she accepted the downpour, a moan leaving her. <br><br>This... was where she belonged. Here, this way, was where she was at her most natural, her intended state of being. 'Yes' her mind whispered. 'Yes, yes, yes! Ice like fire, tears at me... marks me, shapes me!' Soon enough, she'd sunk to her knees, then her belly, and rolled to her back, laying there on that hill, high above the surrounding countryside with sheets of rain pelting her and her body on fire as if she were experiencing the intense touch of a lover. Her hands wandered her form as the storm barraged her and in no time at all, she was arching, gasping, crying out as her toes curled again and her eyes opened to watch lightning crack the sky.</em><br><br>Waking with a gasp, Solfiria sat bolt upright next to her campfire, now burnt down to nothing as the sun began to break the horizon, lighting the world once again. She was breathing heavily, nearly panting, and she could swear she still felt the places where the razer-sharp, hot as fire rain had pelted her skin. Blinking at her dream, one that had been recurring for months since she began on this journey, going from happening once a week when she left Accord, and now it was happening nightly, and her body was in a progressively worse state every night afterward. Rubbing her eyes with her marked hands, she sighed and stood up, dousing her fire just to be sure it was out. Dulon's Landing was only two hours down the road from where she was at that moment, and if she hurried, she might be able to get there before hunger truly began to gnaw at her belly. She was tired of jerky. <br><br>Grumbling at the dried meat, she pulled it from her pack and stuck it between her teeth as she donned her robes over her normal clothes. The robes were long, black, and flowing, sporting long sleeves that covered her hands when she let her arms hang at her sides, a high neck that covered up to her jaw, and a hood that easily covered her hair, which she tucked carefully beneath it so that none of it showed. A long black veil joined it, draping itself over the bridge of her nose and hanging to her collar bone. Black boots carried her from the clearing she'd slept in that night and she was off, walking down the road toward the town. She swore she could smell freshly baking bread and fish from there. <br><br>Reaching the town by mid morning, she ignored the odd looks she got and retrieved food from the Inn, dining on a simple breakfast she bought with what little money she could spare, trying to ration out what money she had, as she had no idea what would happen here in this town. More than one person had already stared far too long at her strange eyes and the sun carved between them. Leaving the Inn after her meal and a long sit to rest her tired feet, she retrieved directions to the general store and made her way there, hoping to stock up on supplies... after all, she wished to learn more about her art here, but she still needed to survive. 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>arkhos</strong> on <strong>14-06-2012, 11:48:16</strong>
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				Nemea Character Post<br>Time of day beginning post: 10:30am<br>Time of day ending post: 12:00pm<br>Location beginning post: Dock - Dulon Landing<br>Location ending post: Bold Bison Inn - Dulon Landing<br>Characters currently interacting with: Any<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? (no)<br><br><br>Nemea took a few uneasy steps down the gang-plank that led from the ship's deck down to the rugged wooden dock of Dulon Landing. <br><br>Two weeks had passed since he had been on shore, and for some reason, he thought returning to solid ground would instantly settle his stomach and set things right in his head. Instead, the horizon and the land around him still continued to bob and weave, bob and weave. But now, there was nothing to move beneath him, no movement of the deck that he had become so used to, and the disorientation was only magnified.<br><br>He rushed over to the edge of the dock, bent at the waist, his hands on his knees - and unceremoniously emptied the contents of his stomach into the water.<br><br>A few laughs and cat-calls sounded behind him on the deck of the <em>Misty Vengeance</em>, the ship he had booked passage on from his point of origin. The two week journey had been a nightmare for him, two of the most uncomfortable weeks of his life. Not only did the ship wreak havoc on his stomach, but he was given a hammock in the main hold along with two dozen sailors, and the snoring, belching, farting, and other seemingly constant bodily noises made sleep a rare commodity.<br><br>But, it was over now, the end of the sea journey punctuated with another heave, and another view of his breakfast, an event that he had repeated on the ship almost every morning since boarding it.<br><br>"Join us anytime, snow-hair! We'll make a sailor of you yet!" one of the sailors called from the deck of the ship as the crew set about preparing to unload cargo. A few laughs sounded immediately after the comment, and all Nemea could think was, ~Over. My. Dead. Body.~<br><br>He did have snow-white hair, long and straight, spilling down his shoulders to midway down his back, and almost as equally white skin. Standing just over six feet in height, he was lanky and well-built, and if his body was bulkier, he might have even considered imposing. But he was lean and muscular, as elves so often were, and his dark eyes gave a hint of ruby coloring if one were to gaze into them closely enough. Slowly he rose up straight again, wiping a sleeve across his lips, gazing back one last time to the ship and sneering at it as if it were some ancient enemy. Then he turned to face inland with his back to the sea, and began to walk. The best way to get his land-legs back was to walk, he was told, so that is what he would do.<br><br>Dulon Landing was a small town, by all appearances. It appeared fairly cozy and quaint, and the common sounds of morning activities reached his ears as he walked. He glanced up at the sun - it's warmth and brightness still so foreign to him, but he was beginning to appreciate it, even enjoy it. A jaunt around the town, then, would help ease his stomach back to some semblance of normalcy. Slowly, one foot in front of the other, he began to make his way around the settlement.<br><br>He passed by several large residential houses, at least from the looks of them he judged that's what they were, and also noticed the rubble of a house that looked damaged, crumbling and useless. He continued on, and saw - or rather, heard - the tell-tale signs of a brothel. He walked closer to the building and yes, indeed - the two ladies standing by the door confirmed his suspicions with invitations and promises of desires fulfilled, even at this time of day. He made a mental note of the place for later, but moved on for the time being. At the moment, his stomach was flipping in seven different directions, and he didn't want to make it worse.<br><br>Nemea headed north, glancing about him as he examined the town and its inhabitants. Occasionally he would attract the eye of a resident, but more often than not he was ignored or simply unseen. Everything seemed so... peaceful, and bright. He eventually passed the shipwright's, the port authority, and a general store. Passing by a shorter woman dressed in black flowing robes and wearing a veil, he stared at her curiously for a long moment as she passed him by. Continuing onward, still simply taking in the sights, he eventually reached the last building which bore a sign that read "<em>The Bold Bison Inn</em>". He wasn't sure he could sleep 'normally' again quite yet, but tonight he was sure going to try. For now, something to refill his empty belly seemed like a good idea, and with that in mind he entered the inn hoping to find room and board for a reasonable price. <br><br>Once the business transaction was concluded, he took a seat in the common room, the world continuing to spin around him (though not as badly as before), sipping from a cup of watered-down wine to soothe his tumultuous stomach.<br><br><br><br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AribethAmkiir</strong> on <strong>15-06-2012, 01:12:59</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j480/Erion2451/imagesqtbnANd9GcS9_OPu2UlXIEHWAEMAihAw7O4FwIHsbaYiD7B2cxE28OhQxSp7ww.jpg)</div>Time of day beginning post: Dawn<br>Time of day ending post: Noon<br>Location beginning post: The forests north of Dulon Landing<br>Location ending post: <br>Characters currently interacting with: None<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no) No<br><hr>As the sun crested the horizon and its first rays brought warmth and nutrients to the tall forest sentinels, the deep timbre of the trees began to sing their morning greeting.&nbsp; Like a gentle whisper, pleas of impatient longing wafted from the underbrush and shortly after turned into a harmonious hymn of gratitude when the sun arched higher and the trees spread their branches which allowed the smaller plants and brush to join in the sun’s bounty.&nbsp; Holly smiled as her eyes finally opened and chased sleep away.&nbsp; This was the joyous song she woke to each morning.&nbsp; A private song she alone could hear here in these human lands.<br><br>Her smile turned coy as the sun slowly crept along the bough where she had slept toward her outstretched legs.&nbsp; Anticipation grew in her chest as the golden rays inched ever closer to her bare extended feet.&nbsp; Robin egg blue eyes closed lightly as a content sigh escaped her lips when the sun’s warm breath brushed over the bark-like skin of her ankles, then inched higher to lick at her calves, before its affectionate caress soaked into her inner thighs.&nbsp; &nbsp; The bough supported Hollywillow’s lithe body as it bowed into an arch and stretched languidly.&nbsp; Slender fingers slid gently down her side and over her hips.&nbsp; <br><br>Only a chuckle which caused the ground to rumble shook Hollywillow from her state.&nbsp; An indignant look was given to the ancient oak before Holly sunk into the large tree limb, became one with it, and then a moment later emerged from the tree’s massive trunk onto the forest’s floor below.&nbsp; She stepped from the shadow of the large oak draped in moss which hung from her shoulders and hips in a semblance of modesty.&nbsp; Holly didn’t fully understand why elves and humans covered themselves in such a way, but she had been told that it was prudent – whatever that meant.<br><br>The dryad turned and bowed to the great oak, thanked it for its safety and company, and then wandered into the forest.&nbsp; It was long after the smell of rain was carried to her on the wind and the sky had grayed with ominous clouds, that she finally turned her mind to the day's doings.&nbsp; She really had no plan.&nbsp; She knew Durlon Landing was near, but she disliked villages.&nbsp; She found the smells nauseating, not as overwhelming as those in a city, but still foul enough to avoid the places if possible.&nbsp; Further the way the inhabitants stared at her made her wish that the trees and plants would return to where they had once been and replace the buildings that supplanted their natural places.&nbsp; She would enter a village only when she must, but even the promise of a Stone Druid didn’t make her relish the thought and so she turned west and away from the village of Durlon Landing.&nbsp; The day before, she had spent some time harassing the foul blood elves that had decided to settle here and defiled the natural order with their twisted minds.&nbsp; There were far too many blood elves for her to do anything other than annoy them, and while that was quite entertaining, it was fairly futile.&nbsp; After a moment of contemplation, Holly settled upon a single story she had heard from the plants of the forest.&nbsp; She would find the great tree and see what stories it had.&nbsp; Giant, magical trees always had the best stories.<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sol Lua</strong> on <strong>16-06-2012, 01:56:40</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(http://i1053.photobucket.com/albums/s465/SolLua159/animationanimeartbeautifulcutegirl-64ea0219df9a8ab8028f7a170572ff08_h.jpg)</div>Time of day beginning post: Early Morning<br>Time of day ending post: Noon<br>Location beginning post: Dock<br>Location ending post: <br>Characters currently interacting with: None<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no):&nbsp; Yes<br><br>Callista stepped out onto the empty dock and sat down on it's edge, her long pale legs hanging down towards the surf.&nbsp; She watched the horizon and the storm rolling in, breathing in the sea air.&nbsp; Waves pounded against the dock, driven ahead of the winds and rain that would soon arrive.&nbsp; The salty spray occasionally splashed Callista's legs, but she didn't seem to mind.&nbsp; After trudging through the Duros mountains, it was a pleasure to be sitting by the ocean, even if the wind occasionally brought the smell of the docks to her nose.&nbsp; Such smells weren't unknown to her, and had long since stopped bothering her the way they did some people.&nbsp; Her wispy white dress fluttered in the sea breeze, revealing glances of her body and the dark leather that barely maintained decency.<br><br>She sat still on the dock, watching as a ship rolled into port across the water from her, disgorging her passengers and load.&nbsp; One of the travelers seemed to be doing a little disgorging himself, which brought a whisper of a smile to her lips.&nbsp; She recalled her own first experiences with sea travel.&nbsp; Still, her eyes narrowed as she noticed the man's race and colouring.&nbsp; An elf certainly, but unlike one she had ever seen.&nbsp; Certainly unusual for this sleepy little port, but possibly just passing through.&nbsp; She noted him, but paid little more attention as she returned to watching the storm grow ever closer.&nbsp; Soon people would begin to seek shelter from the elements, and the bustling port town would batten down the hatches as well as any ship.&nbsp; That would be the best time to go see Hari.&nbsp; Her Master suggested she strike out on her own for a while, and get a different perspective.&nbsp; One teacher could only teach so much, and there were experiences to have, and others to learn from.<br><br>She reached down and pulled out her dagger.&nbsp; The magical blade gleamed with a sense of hunger.&nbsp; It hadn't fed well on her trip here.&nbsp; A few monsters and brigands was hardly a decent meal for the blade.&nbsp; Callista smiled and sheathed the weapon.&nbsp; If rumours were correct, there would be plenty of work to do.&nbsp; As the thunder rolled over the town, she stood and stretched.&nbsp; People bustled around, getting their last few errands done quickly before the storm hit.&nbsp; Now was a good time.<br><br>She made her way off of the dock and along the streets of the town, finally arriving at the door she sought.&nbsp; She knocked on the door, strong a deliberate but not urgent.&nbsp; It was time to see if this Hari had anything to offer her for work.&nbsp; She wasn't in need of gold, but it was never good to go too long withought income.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>18-06-2012, 07:24:04</strong>
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				<div align="center"><strong>Situation Update</strong></div><br>As the morning grows into late noon and afternoon, the storms rolling in from Accord will take on an odd, hellish tint and other storms, these coming from across the turbulent sea will rise to meet them. Those with some magical facility will sense great portents in the air, as though events beyond knowing have stirred up the world. <br><br>A new vessel has docked near the Misty Vengeance, at one of the two main piers Landing supports. Sleek and covered in flowing sigils and artistic runes with five masts, all arrayed in colorful patterns that somehow complement one another, Dulonians can be seen moving about on board. Most of the people are handsome or attractive, without being overly sexualized, and appear as oversized humans. Around noon, a large caravan of circus performers, complete with a dozen rare animals disembark and one of the animals, a dire bear the size of a small house, escapes. Word through town is that a few adventurers knocked the animal unconscious, before wandering to the south. Players should feel free to investigate and interact at their leisure; most of these NPCS can be player controlled (just keep in mind that the Dulosians love art and creativity and glean supernatural power from their passion for it and you’ll be fine). <br><br><div align="center"><strong><br>PC Notes</strong></div><br><div align="center">Solfiria</div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">To your carefully attuned senses, the town feels like a powder keg, a storm on the verge of exploding into life. Whenever you look to the North West, you sense great turbulence and hunger beyond anything you’ve ever experienced. Something alien seems to hover at the edge of your vision, ready to pound down on the tiny city and devour the land itself. You will encounter Corann inside Seaside Sal’s. </div></div><br><div align="center">Nemea</div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Life in the Bold Bison bustles. You see all manner of people, from Dulosians to humans, and even a cherubic-faced couple of Brial engaged in heated, high-pitched discussion. You believe they are arguing over the logic of investing in trade here: though a local group of adventurers is said to have cleared out most of the wild Blood Elves, it’s still not safe. That, and the Praetor family has a strangle hold on the area’s economy.<br><br>Boris, a huge, twisted and long-limbed looking half-giant smiles whenever he sees you and is happy to make sure that the few serving people he has hired to help out make your stay as comfortable as possible. Given who and what he is, it’s unlikely that anyone will disobey. </div></div><br><div align="center">Hollywillow </div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Holly, you're on the far outskirts of Grace, where the trees are mostly just trees and the rolling hills were once flush with wild horses. You see a few in the distance, but far fewer than you'd expect. <br></div></div><br><div align="center">Callista </div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">When you arrive at Magistrate Hari’s, you notice a well-worn old wooden building, eroded a bit by the sea, but with a layer of varnish that seems new enough. Based on how it looks compared to the rest of the town, you believe this building has been around for some time. When you knock, a gruff voice calls out, “What now, Dolar? Come on in. I’m not going to bite your head off, as long as you’re not asking me to do your business for you again.”<br>When you step inside, you see a spare wooden room with a low wooden wall near the back separating the main room from the portion ran by the man policing the town (think of an old time jail), with a hinged door in the middle. Behind the wall, apparently seated in a tall chair, tilted back so the ornate crest of it rests on the rear wall behind him, is a grizzled older human man with salt and pepper hair, a fringe of a beard, and swarthy skin. He’s wearing a dirty shirt and leather pants that you see as he stands to look you over, his all-but black eyes taking you in. <br>“What can I do for you?” He asks, recognizing you – not for who you are, but what. Around the otherwise empty room, mounted on the walls, you see brackets supporting a wide variety of overtly magical gear: shadowy vestments, black leaf blade daggers, elven rope with sigils woven into it, and so forth. Hari seems to be publically advertising his previous profession, for whatever reason. <br></div></div>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>18-06-2012, 09:36:07</strong>
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				<strong>Time of day beginning post: </strong>Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong>Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with: </strong>Sol<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no):</strong> No. <br><br>By the time Sol walked into Seaside Sal’s, Corann was already inside, haggling with Sal. The interior of the place was a ramshackle assortments of odds and ends; a mixture of a general store with all the accoutrements of things brought in by sailors and adventurers passing through and looking for to make some quick coin. The entry led to a series of counters lined with glass, below each of which rested gewgaws, rings, necklaces, gemstones and an assortment of other delicate objects. <br><br>Corann’s back was to the door leading in, and he was illuminated by a bright swatch of morning sunshine, deliberately reflected through one of the room’s open windows and off an assortment of delicate looking fine dining wear, then off the burnished breastplate of an obviously magical suit of full plate, currently marked “Only 500 gold. No identification available. Purchase at your own risk.” Corann was clearly a man of some size and his aforementioned foppish ware poked out of his armored chain, and his voice was raised in something between amusement and consternation. <br><br>“Look, I just want a suit of clothes,” Corann said.<br><br>“And I am telling you, clothes in your size only come from the Dulosians. You’ll have to make your purchase accordingly.” Seaside Sal was a bronze skinned man with a deep accent, the sort of thing you’d expect to hear from people originating from more southern climes – fast, and eager to argue. He had a huge stack of clothes near his lean, boney arm on the counter, all bright colors and covered in swirling flowers and other designs.<br><br>“Sal, I’m not into flowers and art. I just need something functional.” It sounded as though Corann was repeating himself for at least the third time; he sounded exasperated.<br><br>Sal seemed entirely cheerful about repeating what he’d said before, nonplused by the argumentative nature of the Chosen. “I can dye them again for you.”<br><br>Sighing, Corann murmured, “My people are at war with the Dulosians. Don’t you see it as something of a problem, me buying clothes they’ve made?”<br><br>Large, knowing eyes blinked up at Corann and Sal seemed about to speak, when he glanced over Corann’s bulging arm and toward the new person. Addressing Sol, he said, “Welcome, welcome, to Seaside Sal’s. Sal is your pal! What can I get for you?”<br><br>Gritting his teeth, Corann exhaled harshly and turned to see who had interrupted his attempted purchase, his large, cat-slitted eyes widening slightly at the vantage he was given of the seemingly simple woman. <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bloodied Porcelain</strong> on <strong>19-06-2012, 06:07:50</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab235/bloodiedporcelain/elcharacterpics/childedit1.jpg)</div><em>Solfiria Character Post</em><br><strong>Time of day beginning post</strong>: Noon<br><strong>Time of day ending post</strong>: Noon<br><strong>Location beginning post</strong>: Outside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post</strong>: Inside Sal's<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with</strong>: Corann<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?</strong> No.<br><hr><br>Sol had stopped to watch a tall, odd looking man as he walked away from her, her mismatched eyes focused on the back of his white-haired head for a moment before she tore her attention away from him and back to what she had been doing. Wait... what had she been doing? That tugging was there... that constant annoying tugging that made her heart beat feel difficult and almost pained in her chest was there, and she looked out toward the horizon with a creeping feeling of dread in her gut. This place was going to erupt soon... Whether or not it would burst in to life, or be swallowed whole and drained of everything that made it more than a collection of empty buildings. <br><br>Oh right... supplies. That's what she had come for. Frowning at her easily distracted nature, she turned away from the horizon and looked toward the door of Seaside Sal's before pushing it open and wandering inside. Engulfed in the slightly musty air, she looked around and blinked rapidly as her vision adjusted before it fell directly on a huge man in flamboyantly bright clothing as he stood and argued with the one who seemed to be the owner of the place over... clothes? Her mismatched eyes moved to the absurdly bright garments on the counter and behind her veil, Sol felt her lips twitch in to an amused smile. When her eyes lifted again she was prepared to make a smart remark about thinking the colors would look excellent on him, but she stopped before she could manage it as her eyes took him in. <br><br>A small thrill went through her at the sight and she had to force herself to swallow hard. Looking at him gave her the same charged feeling as watching a storm roll in from the sea. He seemed... volatile. Their eyes met and for a moment, she wondered if he felt the same as she. For a moment she felt lost, standing in place without a clue about her reason for being there, before she suddenly seemed to remember herself again. Tearing her eyes and shaking her head as the proprietor of the establishment called out in greeting, she looked down and her flowing movements carried her through the shop, eyes lifting occasionally to glance at this or that. She was immediately drawn to a small, open wooden case that held what she quickly identified as ink... Temporary inks, granted, but most people wanted temporary imprints more than permanent ones, and it wasn't necessary to be as picky about where the ink came from when it was temporary. <br><br>Grabbing the case, she snagged a few other basic supplies, prime among them was a set of new looking, basic black boots that appeared to be about her size. Making her way to the counter, she glanced up at the big man with the cat eyes one more time, the scar-sun between her eyes seeming to almost glisten silver against her skin, which appeared almost silvery pale in the low light before she looked back at Sal. "How much for the inks?" she asked, tapping the box as she slid it across to him. 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AribethAmkiir</strong> on <strong>20-06-2012, 21:08:50</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://[url=http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j480/Erion2451/imagesqtbnANd9GcS9_OPu2UlXIEHWAEMAihAw7O4FwIHsbaYiD7B2cxE28OhQxSp7ww.jpg]http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j480/Erion2451/imagesqtbnANd9GcS9_OPu2UlXIEHWAEMAihAw7O4FwIHsbaYiD7B2cxE28OhQxSp7ww.jpg[/url])</div><em><span style="font-size: 8pt;" class="bbc_size">Hollywillow Character Post</span></em><br><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Later<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> West of Durlon Landing<br><strong>Location ending post:</strong> Closer to Durlon Landing<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong> None<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?:</strong>&nbsp; No<br><hr><br>It seemed like the beginning of a bad joke told by a dwarf to an elf.&nbsp; “There was a dryad lost in the forest…”&nbsp; Only problem was that the forest had started to recede to vast open plains.<br><br>It was an unnatural feeling, when Hollywillow came to the edge of the forest and, for the first time in her life, saw nothing but open sky.&nbsp; She had immediately retreated to the tree line and scolded the nearby vegetation for their deceit.&nbsp; Even the magnificent sight of a herd of wild horses running freely in the distance didn’t draw her out.&nbsp; <br><br>After a few minutes, when her vexation had died out, she had to admit that it was a rather good joke.&nbsp; Still she had to ask the nearby trees why they didn’t spread out over the grass and claim that land for themselves.&nbsp; The answer she received didn’t make a whole lot of sense to her.&nbsp; After all, trees were larger than grass, and wiser.&nbsp; The grass never seemed to remain quiet or still.&nbsp; The constant noise was rather irritating.<br><br>With a whimsical giggle, Holly headed back into the forest and left the silly trees, beautiful horses, and rambunctious grass behind her.&nbsp; After some time of traveling she found a trustworthy Elm which told her that the mysterious, magical tree she had been looking for was north, in the elven lands of Grace.&nbsp; Holly knew that was completely in the wrong direction, and decided that she’d simply have to visit with the rumored tree when she returned to Grace.&nbsp; One of the best things about wonderful stories told by magical trees was that they only grew better with anticipation.<br><br>It was through patches in the forest canopy that Holly saw how the weather was changing.&nbsp; The dark and angry storm was growing in the east, the direction she was headed, and more clouds seemed to join it.&nbsp; She had never paid much attention to the weather.&nbsp; It rained when the sky decided it should, the sun came out when it wanted to, and the clouds provided shade when the sun was sleepy but didn’t want to let the moon come out and play.&nbsp; That was her very own personal theory, at least.<br><br>Now, however, something seemed to echo on the wind and not quite-heard whispers were spoken between the trees.&nbsp; Holly’s very insides stirred and tingled with the sense of something unknown.&nbsp; It was almost like she was standing on the edge of the great plain again.<br><br>An overwhelming desire to be amongst other beings began to slowly envelope her thoughts.&nbsp; She still hated the smell of Durlon Landing, but the longing to share company with more than trees seemed to permeate into her core.&nbsp; The thought seemed peculiar, but perhaps since she knew it was unlikely she’d find other Dryads in the human lands, she had unconsciously decided that human beings were an acceptable substitute.&nbsp; <br><br>With those thoughts and feelings foremost in her mind, she began to make her way toward the smelly, uncomfortable village named Durlon Landing.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sol Lua</strong> on <strong>24-06-2012, 05:12:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Callista Character Post<br>Time of day beginning post: Noonish<br>Time of day ending post: Noon<br>Location beginning post: Hari's<br>Location ending post: Hari's<br>Characters currently interacting with: Hari<br>GM Intervention Request\Required?:&nbsp; Yes<br><br>Callista took a long look around, her gaze appraising and appreciative, but not predatory enough to indicate a plan to steal any of the man's items.&nbsp; After a few moments, she turned her gaze to him, sizing him up in a quick glance.&nbsp; Aging, but still capable and skilled in his trade.&nbsp; By the wealth of magical items around him, he no doubt had in his possession subtler forms of offensive and defensive magic or items.&nbsp; In short, not someone she wanted to tangle with without considerable research and preparation.&nbsp; Luckily, she wasn't here as opposition to him.<br><br>"Storm's coming.&nbsp; You can smell it in the air.&nbsp; We both know there are always... opportunities to be had in such a situation."&nbsp; She took a few steps into the building as the door closed behind her, leaning against one of the shelves along his walls.&nbsp; "You're the man around here that knows what needs to be done, and the one who knows the value of such services.&nbsp; It's logical to come here and at least introduce myself when I come into your territory."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>arkhos</strong> on <strong>24-06-2012, 11:41:19</strong>
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				Nemea Character Post<br>Time of day beginning post: Noonish<br>Time of day ending post: After Noonish<br>Location beginning post: Bold Bison Inn - Dulon Landing<br>Location ending post: Dock - Dulon Landing<br>Characters currently interacting with: Any<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? (no)<br><hr><br>Nemea sat at the seat he was able to get near the front window. Through it, he faced in the direction of the harbor whence he had come. His stomach was still in turmoil, and to help him with it he had requested watered down wine, and some bread. The innkeep, Boris, a gangly half-giant, was all too happy to assist him with his request and saw to it that he received exactly what he asked for. With the exchange of a few coins, the deed was done.<br><br>Now, he sat comfortably, taking in the sights and sounds of the tavern, the street outside, and in the distance, he could faint see the bobbing and slow movement of more masts - another sizable ship had apparently pulled into dock. It was all so... exciting. The different peoples, the different languages and attitudes. He had read about all of this countless times, and it was even more exciting than he had ever imagined it. <br><br>He missed his mother, of course. He missed her reassurance, her wisdom, and her tantalizing caress. But as she told him herself, he was a 'big boy' now, and needed to put on his 'big boy' boots and hit the ground running. So far, that's what he planned to do - just after the world stopped spinning around him and he was able to hold down some food and drink for more than a few hours.<br><br>The ship that had arrived was not the only thing coming in. A storm was brewing, and Nemea could feel it to his very bones. Magically-attuned as he was, the sense of foreboding was ominous, yet he wasn't sure how much of that was the presence of magical strangeness in the air, or simply his own health hammering him from the exhausting toll that the trip to this place took on him.<br><br>He cursed himself.&nbsp; A good night's sleep, solid grub, and a visit to the whore house would fix everything, and he'd be right as rain come the morrow.<br><br>About that time, he saw through the window the approach of strangely dress people. From the number of them, he made a guess that they had just disembarked from the newly arrived ship in the harbor. With obvious curiosity, he watched several of them move and talk, simply fascinated. Downing the last of his wine, and picking up the last crust of bread on his plate, he rose and made his way to the street, and from there, made his way to the docks. He was a curious creature by nature, and a life spent in near-isolation only made him even more so. <br><br>Nemea arrived at the docks and began to look around in wonder - an actual circus, he was sure of it! From what he had read, that's what he believed he was looking at. He simply stared in wonder, casually strolling about to take it all in as they worked to unload the ship and milled about. <br><br><br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>25-06-2012, 05:58:48</strong>
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				<div align="center"><strong>Situation Update</strong></div>Nothing to report; same day. <br><br><div align="center"><strong>Solifria</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Sal looks you over with a calculating but not malicious gaze, sizing up your apparent wealth and value compared to the inks you seek. He pursues his lips and murmurs, “Those dyes come from the Dulosia and are fairly rare, even if the Dulosians don’t charge very much for them.” Pausing, he considered her again, about to add something, no doubt to enhance the price. <br><br>Corann leans forward, coughing softly as though suddenly very interested in what the man is about to say. (DM Note: Corann full post shortly to follow)<br><br>Paling a bit, the tanned, accented Sal shrugs and admits, “The box is worth more than the inks, to be truthful. The Dulosians use the inks in almost everything over there. Three gold and the whole set is yours. Five if you want the box, too.”</div></div><div align="center"><strong>Hollywillow</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">As you approach the distant city, filled with the disgusting smells of men and ships, you note an oddity in the distance, perhaps a mile to your West, closer to the roaming horses. A small, thin man, perhaps in his fifties, with a wiry sensibility about him wearing a brown tunic and pants, with no shoes, is moving among a half dozen horses. Where he steps, you can see the grass grow, but you don’t sense that he has druidic power about him. It may be worth investigating, or not. If you wish to continue into Dulon, feel free.<br></div></div><div align="center"><strong>Callista</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Hari smirks at you and looks you over again, gauging your abilities. There’s no sense of attraction in the older man’s features, though there might be a professional curiosity about what you look like beneath your clothes. He is a man, after all. <br><br>Finally, after a few seconds, he responds, “Look, if you want training. I just got done training a strange warrior a few weeks ago for doing me a favor. You do me the same and take care of those remaining Blood Elves south of the town, and I’ll help you out. If you want to get into trouble, I suggest you investigate the Larluck mansion. Otherwise, I keep the peace inside my town. There isn’t much call for assassins here. Accord, maybe. Trumviral, definitely.&nbsp; A lot of other places, too. None of them near here. I suggest you learn skills useful in adventuring groups – how to work with others, make allies – get them to trust you, and get your cut while keeping yourself as far from danger as possible. It’s the way of the world for the majority of the people seeking power.” He gestured out the door with his chin, a jerk of taut muscle despite his clearly advanced age. “Adventurers come through town all the time. Offer your skills detecting traps, making or neutralizing poisons, and your skill with a dagger or whatever tools you use, and they are sure to keep you on.”<br><br>He pauses, looking you over again, then exhales. “And, for women, there are other options, as I am sure you’re aware. A little flirting and seduction can go a long way, if that’s your cup of tea.”<br><br>He goes silent then, amiable but not extremely forthcoming either, as though waiting for you to prove yourself- in one way or another – before anything of further use comes from him.<br><br></div></div><div align="center"><strong>Nemea</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Your observations and bearing do not go unnoticed. After a few minutes of watching the collection of huge, tonner-sized wagons, each with gilded calligraphy and ornate designs carved through wood and beams alike, a rather tall but attractive woman in burnished (but colorfully decorated) full plate wanders over to you. Something in her bearing suggests a sort of tense awareness that wouldn’t normally be there, as though she’s had a recent shock. <br><br>“Hello there adventurer,” she says after glancing you over, taking your stature in. Closer, you can see that the woman isn’t precisely attractive, but she carries a tremendous vitality, a passion that illuminates her aquamarine eyes and makes her lush lips seem appealing. Though she’s a head and shoulders taller than you. <br><br>“How can Mariana’s Circus be of aid to you?” she smiles and offers a big, steel-gloved hand, the dancing patterns of color on the steel indicating that it must be imbued with power, but you detect no arcane magic radiating from it at all. You’ve heard of this: the Dulosians empower their artifacts and creations with their passion. She would be a formidable opponent to anyone on the battlefield, or so your discernment detects. </div></div>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>25-06-2012, 06:21:05</strong>
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				<div align="center"><strong>Corann Character Post</strong></div><br><strong>Time of day beginning post: </strong>Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong>Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with: </strong>Sol<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no):</strong> No.<br><br>Corann looked over at the startling creature with an odd mixture of fascination and reluctant attraction. His kind were deeply sexual creatures; how else would they breed fast enough to keep their numbers up, given all the wars they were genetically programmed for? Still, it was cultural taboo to find members of other species’ attractive, even if they came from the same sort of stock as the Chosen.&nbsp; The mixture of emotions took the young man aback enough that despite his normal confidence he paused long enough&nbsp; for the girl to browse the shop and announce her intentions before he came back to himself.<br><br>When the shop owner looked like he was going to extort the girl, Corann simply looked at him, letting some of the fire show in his predatory eyes and the man seemed to take the hint, which made Corann smirk, as though seeing lesser beings obey him was the natural order of things, or perhaps pleasure in a successfully made negotiation, this one without words. <br><br>When Sol finished her purchase, Corann announced, “Sal, I need regular clothes. Not bright garb that will make me look like a freaking peacock. What can you do for me?”<br><br>Sal hooked a thumb out, behind his shop and crossly demanded, “You want other clothes, stitch them together from the Blood Elves, or go look in that strange tree, or go talk to another merchant in town. I simply don’t have any that will fit you. If you want them tailored, it will take a day and cost a full gold.” <br><br>Corann’s face became pale with a mixture of humiliation and rage and he stormed out of the building, not taking the time to talk to Sol – though he’d clearly planned on doing so – and moved into the street. To any observer’s eyes it was obvious the mature-looking Chosen man was sulking, his broad shoulders slumped, plump bottom lip stuck out, eyes narrow and teeth ground together. <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bloodied Porcelain</strong> on <strong>26-06-2012, 07:42:40</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab235/bloodiedporcelain/elcharacterpics/childedit1.jpg)</div><em>Solfiria Character Post</em><br><strong>Time of day beginning post</strong>: Noon<br><strong>Time of day ending post</strong>: Noon<br><strong>Location beginning post</strong>: Inside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post</strong>: Outside Sal's<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with</strong>: Corann<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?</strong> No.<br><hr><br>Sol had heard those words before 'fairly rare'. She wasn't an idiot, and her lips had parted behind her veil to argue with the man when suddenly the tall, broad fellow beside her leaned in. All at once, Sal went pale and seemed to suddenly, drastically, change his mind about trying to over charge her. Though she was grateful for the help, she was also curious, and glanced up at the man through mismatched eyes. When Sal quoted his finally price, she frowned some but slid the gold across the counter, said a polite "thank you" and moved to gather her things. <br><br>This was roughly the time that Sal and the big man began to argue over clothes before and even Sol thought it was extreme to charge a gold for a single set of clothing. The inks she'd picked up were good quality, so a few gold was understandable for those... but just one set of clothes? Even with tailoring... When Corann turned to walk out, she opened her lips to speak to him but he'd moved by her before she got the chance to utter even a syllable. He brushed by her, making her step back in haste to give him room as she watched him with wide eyes, glancing between him and Sal. <br><br>Blinking a few times, Sol told herself it wasn't any of her business, but clothing fiasco aside, she was deeply curious to know why that... that <em>man</em> felt like a storm all on his own. Turning, she tucked her things in to her bag and followed him out in to the street. Pausing next to him, Sol turned to look up at him. "Don't look like that," she said with a sigh. "I'm sure there are other merchants in town... I think there's a name... starts with a P... I dunno, something like that." <br><br>Her hand lifted to pat his upper arm, and she noticed just how tiny her hand was in comparison to his bicep. Blinking some, she stared at the place where her hand rested before she pulled it away. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>arkhos</strong> on <strong>26-06-2012, 18:30:50</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Nemea Character Post<br>Time of day beginning post: After Noonish<br>Time of day ending post: After Noonish<br>Location beginning post: Dock - Dulon Landing<br>Location ending post: Dock - Dulon Landing<br>Characters currently interacting with: Any<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? (no)<br><hr><br>Nemea was so taken-in by all that he was seeing, that when the large woman approached, his lips moved but he wasn't entirely sure what to say. He had -read- stories about such things, but he had always put things like this into the category of 'fairy tales', yet, here they were in all their color and splendor.<br><br>He glanced up at the -much- taller woman. The plate she wore must have weighed a ton, yet she carried it on her person as if it were no heavier than cloth. Her tense awareness wasn't lost on him, and he quickly reminded himself about his readings - his kind weren't always 'appreciated' to begin with, and here he was, staring and gawking rudely like a child. His pale skin reddened slightly, as he quickly realized how infantile he must seem.<br><br>"My apologies, lady," he stammered out as his eyes met hers, unsure how Dulosians preferred to be addressed, so he went for the generic greeting. "I just couldn't help but notice your troupe, and... well... I confess as to never having seen the likes of it before, so my curiosity got the better of me and is the sole reason for my rudeness."<br><br>He slowly reached his hand out to hers, grasping her forearm and leaving his own bared to her grip in the offer of a warrior's handshake, as he had read about so many times in the books. "Well-met. I am Nemea, a wandering elf mercenary newly arrived in Dulon Landing. I admit it is my first time here and my legs and stomach are still getting used to being on solid ground again. My recent time at sea only enhances my rudeness, I assure you," he said, trying to give her a smile.<br><br>"Is the Circus scheduled to remain here in the port for long, or are you headed to a larger venue?" he asked as he glanced around, the super-excitement in the air only seemed exacerbated by the presence of the colorful Circus troupe unloading from the ship, and the formidable-looking woman before him. He idly wondered if the woman could sense it, too - the air about them pregnant with an intensity of arcane power.<br><br>"Are you, by chance, Mariana?" he asked curiously, wondering if he were addressing the owner directly, or if this was perhaps a performer, or more than likely, a guard of the Circus.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AribethAmkiir</strong> on <strong>28-06-2012, 06:00:50</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j480/Erion2451/imagesqtbnANd9GcS9_OPu2UlXIEHWAEMAihAw7O4FwIHsbaYiD7B2cxE28OhQxSp7ww.jpg)</div><div align="center"><strong>Character post for Hollywillow</strong></div><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong>West of Dulon Landing<br><strong>Location ending post:</strong> West of Dulon Landing<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong> None<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no)</strong>Possibly<br><hr>The stench wafted to Holly’s nose not long after she had turned east toward the village.&nbsp; The smell caused her feet to become laden and her desire to be amongst people to wane.&nbsp; The almost heard whispered between the trees had grown to quiet warnings and musings of unknown happenings on the air.&nbsp; She knitted her brow at the trees closest to her and gave them sidelong glances.&nbsp; <br><br><em>Trees shouldn’t gossip or spread rumors,</em> she thought.&nbsp; <em>They were supposed to be far more practical for such things.</em><br><br>A whisper from the brush told Holly that there was a peculiar stranger to the west.&nbsp; According to the plants he was a very unique man who made grass grow from his very steps.&nbsp; Knowing how fickle grass could be, Holly wasn’t all that surprised.&nbsp; Still, the vegetation didn’t think he had any druidic abilities and after Holly had drawn closer she didn’t sense any either.<br><br>Out amongst the wild horses, she had seen earlier, a wiry male human with white hair moved.&nbsp; Shadowing him from the safety of the trees, Holly watched for a long time.&nbsp; It was true that wherever he stepped grass sprouted and even from her distance she could hear their tiny voices rejoice at their birth.&nbsp; Her lips pressed into a wry smile as she continued to watch.&nbsp; She had never heard of anyone who could do this and her curiosity was growing by the moment.&nbsp; As time passed, that curiosity began to grow into hope that he’d pass near enough to the trees and she would be able to talk to him.&nbsp; She still didn’t want to step out of the leaf covered forest canopy and expose herself to all that sky, but she was gathering her courage to do just that if he didn’t hurry up and move closer.<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>04-07-2012, 18:44:22</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Situation Update</strong></div><br>Nothing new; same day.<br><br><div align="center"><strong>Solifria </strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Response in Corann’s post.</div></div><div align="center"><strong>Nemea</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Response has been roleplayed out via IMs. Feel free to embellish a bit.</div></div><div align="center"><strong>Hollywillow</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">After your observations of the man, you hear him cluck his tongue in his teeth and look directly up at you. You can immediately tell that he isn’t entirely human. His skin is the color of pale, peeled birch bark mixed with the craggy signs of age you would associate with a human. Despite that, his garments don’t appear to be made by humanoid hands at all, but woven together with roots. It just looked like cloth from the distance. His voice is wry, timbered with amusement and the crackle that hints that the man might not be entirely sane, “Come out, whoever you are. I won’t hurt you, unless you threaten my heard.” With that, the man beacons, his yellowed, cracked fingernails ominous, but his features were open and without hostility. </div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>04-07-2012, 18:52:56</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Corann Character Post</strong></div><br><strong>Time of day beginning post: </strong>Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong>Main street outside Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with: </strong>Sol<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no):</strong> No.<br><br>Touching Corann’s arm felt a bit like touching a live wire; to an Imprinter it would feel a bit like touching her own well of power, as though something inside the Chosen’s body was vibrantly imbued with power that wasn’t entirely arcane and was as permanent as any well-done ink. Probably more so. In addition, he felt carved of sculpted, smooth muscle, the kind that came from action, not mere exercise, though there was a hint of that as well. <br><br>Looking down at Sol, his gaze oddly owlish, Corann’s mouth worked, the petulance seeming fixed. “It’s not right. Not at all. It’s not fair!” He actually stamped a booted foot on the ground, and somehow made the motion seem graceful and as threatening to the earth as it was childish. “I just want a new set of clothes. Why must it be so difficult? It’s not like I’m trying to run for mayor of some human city or am one of those cruel Stone Arms.” He crossed his arms over his broad chest, his shirt sleeves riding up to emphasize his bare wrists. Neither arm was made of stone, if that was any indicator.<br><br>Glowering down at the girl, he peered her over, not bothering to hide his admiration of her entirely clothed physique. From what he could tell - which, admittedly wasn't a lot - she was attractive beneath all her layers, and she moved like a woman who had a latent, innate sexuality. “You know, if you were good in a fight and about a foot taller, I’d ask you to disrobe and maybe even bed me.” He smiled slightly, as though he’d given her the best compliment he knew. Which, to him, was entirely the truth. “Despite looking like someone with a skin disorder, you walk like you've got plenty of energy. More even than some of the young of my kind.” He nodded, emphasizing his point, sending curls of hair around his sculpted, open features. Somehow, when he said the words, he sounded so genuine that he came across a bit like an inexperienced puppy, still growing into his paws.<br><br>“Say, you’re not from around here, are you?” He scrubbed one boot against the cobblestones and the pout melted into a guarded smile. “You wouldn’t know where I can find some adventure or monsters to kill to death, would you?” All woes of clothes seemed forgotten in his newfound inquiry. <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bloodied Porcelain</strong> on <strong>05-07-2012, 03:36:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab235/bloodiedporcelain/elcharacterpics/childedit1.jpg)</div><em>Solfiria Character Post</em><br><strong>Time of day beginning post</strong>: Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post</strong>: Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post</strong>: Main street outside Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post</strong>: Main street outside Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with</strong>: Corann<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?</strong> No<br><hr><br>His response to her was almost laughable. Stomping and pouting and fuming like a child denied his treats on his birthday. She was tempted to threaten to put him in a corner until his attitude adjusted, but the tingle that had passed through her fingers was still there and pulsing up her arm as her hand rested on his sculpted bicep. She felt like swallowing hard, and was thankful for her veils as she did so and lowered her hand. As she rubbed her fingers against her thigh through her robes to rid herself of the nearly lightning intense sensations she'd gotten from his touch, she looked down and tried to make sense of what was going on. Touching him had been like touching some kind of intense magic... instinctively, she felt both drawn to and repelled to it... as if one moment she wanted to feel him against her bare skin, and the next she wanted run as far and as fast as she could.<br><br>Drawing attention would get her killed... drawing attention always proved to cause difficulties for her... this guy was bound to draw attention... so why wasn't she headed as far away from him as possible? Unable to answer that question, his announcement that if she were taller and good in a fight he'd want her to bed him had left her so stunned she wasn't able to respond at first. Mismatched eyes wide, she stared up at him in silence for a long moment, trying to make sense of what was happening and how she was feeling before she suddenly blinked, snapping out of it. Turning her face away, she frowned and adjusted her veil to be sure her face was hidden. "I'm not diseased," she said, a frown evident in her voice. <br><br>"As for adventure... there are those blood elves Sal was talking about. Who knows... kill enough of them, maybe you'll impress the people here enough to give you clothes that are less..." her eyes passed over him, and for a moment they lingered on the broad look of his arms and shoulders... the tight formation of his chest muscles... his thickly corded neck... "...colorful." 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>arkhos</strong> on <strong>05-07-2012, 11:57:39</strong>
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				Nemea Character Post<br>Time of day beginning post: After Noonish<br>Time of day ending post: After Noonish<br>Location beginning post: Dock - Dulon Landing<br>Location ending post: Dock - Dulon Landing<br>Characters currently interacting with: Any<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? (No. This was a short RP between DM and Nemea, posted with permission)<br><hr><br>The large, handsome woman grinned down at Namea and nodded. “This is, indeed, my troupe. And we’ll be in Dulon Landing for a week, just long enough to relax, acclimate the beasts to the new land, and possibly pick up some guards on the way to Accord and maybe even, after a week or two in Accord, to Trumviral. What brings you here, wanderer?” she asked, politely curious.<br><br>Nemea nodded respectfully at her answer, then smiled when she asked. "I am actually new to these lands, out on my first journeys across the world. I spent so much of my youth pent-up at home," he said, not even bothering explaining just HOW pent up he had been. "But I am exploring, one could say. Seeking my fortune, but in no real hurry to do so. I have read about a 'circus', but have never seen one with my own eyes. Is your troupe similar to the ones in the tales? Do you really eat fire, fly through the air, and joust with dangerous wild animals?"<br><br>Laughing, one of those bold belly laughs that brought out dimples in the big woman’s cheeks, she waved a hand back at the dozen-or-so massive wagons lining the paved walkway. “Indeed. We’ve got a collection of animals and many specialists in tow. Our man Thomson makes Fire Elementalists crag their brows in amazement at what he does, and Sarah is an amazing tumbler, taking falls from thirty or more feet with ease. Once we setup in the next day or so, if you’re here, you’ll have quite a show.” She paused, adding wickedly, “As long as you can afford the gold we charge for it!” Another merry laugh followed, friendly and open and full of zest for life.<br><br>Both of his brows raised, almost the gaze of a young child seeing the circus for the first time - if not for his tall frame (though short by HER standards, of course). "The next day or so! Then I hope I am about so that I might see these people you speak of! Someone can fall thirty feet with ease? And Thomson sounds quite powerful! How much gold does it cost to see these attractions, my lady?" he asked politely.<br><br>"A solid gold," she replied. A month's wages for most common folk and a hearty sum. "With the poorest of the poor getting in for a silver. It's the cheapest I can manage and still put food on the table for all my people." She hesitated, then admitted, perhaps bedazzled by the elf's hypnotic red eyes, "I can't deny wee children and people starving an opportunity. That would be cruel. I'd love to have you in." She looked him over, considering, "What manner of elf are you? You bear a resemblance to several kinds, but I've never met one with such eyes."<br><br>He stammered a bit, looking down, as if embarrassed by the answer. "I am from Grace, my lady. Some say I was touched by the elements, others say I was cursed. I am not thought of fondly there – which provided more incentive to see the world. And you, my lady? Where might you come from?" he asked, even if the answer may be assumed or obvious, giving his own eyes a chance to appraise her rather large and... hardy frame.<br><br>She laughed again and gestured back at the boat from which she'd clearly disembarked. "From the ship, and before that from Dulosia. I was in the military for a few years, but after I'd done my service, decided it was time to take a break and get into another line of work. And here I am, seeing how this side of the sea fares." <br><br>She glanced over at the workers in the column behind her, several tall men and women joking, having fun, and working all at once, then back at the elf. "Is there anything that I can do for you in specific, my friend? I should probably continue preparing for the night's rest, if not."<br><br>His brows raised. "Oh, no! I apologize for delaying you. I was on my way to the brothel when I saw the colorful belongings and trappings of your troupe, so my curiosity urged me to inquire. Again - I did not mean to delay you, lady. You have been quite courteous, and for that, Nemea thanks you," he said with a slight bow.<br><br>She responded with a surprisingly fluid motion that belied just how restricted she'd looked in her armor and returned her attention to her wagons and the people attending them.<br><br>Nemea scolded himself a bit – had the woman just been kind to him? Or... was that an interest she showed in him, or had she been... flirting with him? He wished his mother were here to tell him. Such things he had not been allowed to read about much, and now he regretted not knowing. Of course, he'd been safer not 'assuming' anything, and risk having the lady pound him into the dirt, but...<br><br>He sighed and stood off to the side, watching the workers go about their task in wonder, his eyes often looking for signs of Mariana.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AribethAmkiir</strong> on <strong>06-07-2012, 07:14:05</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j480/Erion2451/imagesqtbnANd9GcS9_OPu2UlXIEHWAEMAihAw7O4FwIHsbaYiD7B2cxE28OhQxSp7ww.jpg)</div><div align="center"><strong>Character post for Hollywillow</strong></div><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong>West of Dulon Landing<br><strong>Location ending post:</strong> West of Dulon Landing<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong> None<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no)</strong>Possibly<br><hr>Holly inquisitively cocked her head to the side as she watched the odd looking man.&nbsp; His skin was the color of pale, peeled birch bark mixed with the craggy signs of age Holly would normally associate with a human.&nbsp; On top of that, his garments didn’t appear to be made by humanoid hands at all.&nbsp; They seemed to be woven together with roots.&nbsp; A detail that greatly intrigued Holly.&nbsp; She assumed that his clothing had simply looked like cloth from a distance.<br><br>A cluck of his tongue startled Holly and it seemed like the man was looking directly at her despite her hiding place amongst the bows of a tree.&nbsp; Her rusty red colored eyebrows knitted together as she tried to figure out how the man had noticed her.&nbsp; There was definitely something peculiar about him.&nbsp; Still she was awfully curious and he didn't look like anyone she'd ever seen before.<br><br>“Come out, whoever you are. I won’t hurt you, unless you threaten my heard,” the man said before he beckoned Holly with yellowed, cracked fingernails ominously.&nbsp; Beyond the nasty looking fingernails though the rest of his features were open and without hostility.<br><br>Holly swung from branch to branch before her bare feet landed on the soft, spongy grass below.&nbsp; She didn't walk directly to the old man, he still was out under that giant open sky but she walked close enough to speak without having to shout.<br><br><strong>"Hi.&nbsp; What are you?"</strong>&nbsp; She asked with a simple curiosity that most would have to strain to take offense with.<br><br>Her robin egg's blue eyes quickly inspected the man now that she was closer to him, and held a joy and excitement of the wonder she was observing.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>09-07-2012, 01:32:51</strong>
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				<div align="center"><strong>Situation Update</strong></div>Nothing to report; same day. <br><br><br><div align="center"><strong>Solifria</strong></div> <div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Response in Corann’s post.</div></div><div align="center"><strong>Nemea</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">In addition to the Dire Bear, a massive beast nearly fifteen feet tall, numerous other fey creatures make brief appearances. A beak, easily as big as a large melon, attached to some feathered creature peeks through one of the far cages, only to vanish. Other than continued industrious labor, nothing of interest appears to be going on near the dock for now.</div></div><div align="center"><strong>Hollywillow</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">The man twitches a bit at your question and his eyes narrow with a mixture of pain and suspicion. Despite the look, he answers, “I am Castoff. Protector of these lands, offspring of Pain and Nature. I protect the living things that have no guardians here, south of Grace.” The capitals of the words “Pain” and “Nature” are evident in his enunciation. <br><br>He waves a hand toward the horses, directing you to gaze over to them. When you do, you can tell that many of the animals appear to have recently healed injuries and almost all are extremely lean, to the point of near starvation.<br><br>“The Blood Elves,” he explains. “Someone spooked the horses down south. Corralled them. The Blood Elves, wilder than even their kind normally are, were killing them. Starving and eating them.” The man’s eyes cloud over and thorn bushes burst into life at his feet, winding up, around his calves. Several of the horses neigh in discomfort and his look abruptly clears. He glances down at his feet, exhales through his teeth, and waves the thorns away. They vanish back into the ground. <br><br>“Adventurers freed the horses and I have taken to protecting them more directly than I’d like. The few Blood Elves that remain are a distinct danger, and I will not allow them to eat any more horse flesh.” He makes the words sound like a promise.<br><br>Looking from the horses back to your face, he murmurs, “Your kind are rare. Especially so far south of Grace. What seek ye, creature of beauty and nature?” </div></div>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>09-07-2012, 01:40:38</strong>
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				<div align="center"><strong>Corann Character Post</strong></div><br><strong>Time of day beginning post: </strong>Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong>Main street outside Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with: </strong>Sol<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no):</strong> No.<br><br>The huge man looked down at Sol as she indicated his clothes and he frowned, growling out, “I don’t defeat evil for the reward.” He paused, then admitted, “Well, not just the reward. And as for these clothes…” He exhaled through his teeth, making a high-pitched, whistling sound, “Perhaps I am doomed to wear them for longer than I’d hoped.” <br><br>In a movement that seemed almost pious, he glanced up to the sky, “Esteron, God of War, if you can hear me, I consider this trial much worse than any monstrosity you’ve sent my way thus far.” If Esteron heard, there was no response. Given the fact that it was well known that the Gods were Absent, it wasn’t much of a surprise. <br><br>Without missing a beat, Corann lowered his eyes from the turbulent, darkening sky, and extended his big hand toward hers, offering, “I am Corann, Ember and Devoted of the Chosen, who are you and what do you do? If you’re interested, perhaps we could travel together.”<br><br>He beamed at her, handsome face empty of anything resembling guile, “The storytellers among my people often tell ballads that begin much like this: strangers meeting, bonding, and then facing insurmountable evils. Sure, a few of the people die, but they always die in glory.” Another pause, a little frown, “Well, except for the times that they die in humiliation, suffering in piles of shit. But when their friends avenge them, their glory is redoubled!” He pronounced the last with quiet and firm surety, bobbing his head to reinforce the concepts.&nbsp; <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bloodied Porcelain</strong> on <strong>09-07-2012, 10:12:29</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab235/bloodiedporcelain/elcharacterpics/childedit1.jpg)</div><em>Solfiria Character Post</em><br><strong>Time of day beginning post</strong>: Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post</strong>: Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post</strong>: Main street outside Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post</strong>: Main street outside Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with</strong>: Corann<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?</strong> No<br><hr><br>Sol quirked a feather-light brow at his insistence that he did not defeat evil for the reward. She wanted to tell him that if that was the case, he was an idiot. She wanted to tell him that those who couldn't pay, were rarely worth helping. She wanted to tell him a lot of things, this giant puppy of a man... but she didn't. She stayed quiet. Sol wasn't above helping those who couldn't help themselves... she just... wasn't a fan of it. Generally when she helped someone, all was fine until one of them caught sight of her outside of her hood and veil and freaked out. Then the name calling started, and frankly... she just didn't see much point in helping those who would only turn around and curse her when all was said and done. <br><br>His prayer nearly made her laugh, but she was careful to keep her face straight as she watched him, crossing her arms over her full, firm breasts. She was about to excuse herself, to come up with some reason to leave him standing there before he started talking about bedding her again, when he suddenly introduced himself. Holding back a groan, she looked heavenward as if to pray herself for a moment before she answered him. "My name is Sol and I... bring out the best in people," she introduced herself. After a minor hesitation during which she seemed to be thinking, she added an addendum, "...most of the time." <br><br>His face turned in to a bright smile and for a moment, Sol seemed somewhat stunned. It was like his moods were as likely to change as the winds. One minute he was pouting and throwing a fit in the middle of the street... the next he was praying like the most pious of men... and now he was grinning at her and talking about death and glory. "Well... uhm... I don't know about you, but I'd rather not die, gloriously or no. I like my limbs right where they are, thanks," she said, shooting him a wary glance that said she wasn't quite sure what to make of him. Chosen were very clearly odd people. <br><br>Looking around for a moment, she debated what she would do next... it was difficult to decide, but she was pretty sure the safest place to be at this point was as far away from Corann as possible... he seemed like the time who would likely get her killed, no matter how handsome he was. Now, if she could just find an excuse to get out of this ludicrous idea he had in his head to go wandering around looking for death and glory... or was it glory and death? Glorious death? Cripes, who knows? 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>arkhos</strong> on <strong>10-07-2012, 21:37:31</strong>
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				Nemea Character Post<br>Time of day beginning post: After Noonish<br>Time of day ending post: After Noonish<br>Location beginning post: Dock - Dulon Landing<br>Location ending post: Bold Bison Inn<br>Characters currently interacting with: Any<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? No<br><hr><br>Nemea watched the scene before him patiently, curious and a bit star-struck at the moment. He had heard the rumors earlier about a dire bear, and there it was, for the briefest of moments, being handled by a group of men and women of the Circus, then it was out of sight once more. It was an -enormous- beast, and he couldn't help but wonder what that creature's food intake must be each day, or what the creature ate in the first place. He also tried his best not to imagine handling such a creature when it was angry or upset. Nemea couldn't help but wonder how that creature would fit into the 'show'.<br><br>The beak of some large animal stuck through a curtain just for a moment - then disappeared as quickly as it had appeared. A gryphon? A hippogriff perhaps? A cockatrice? An owlbear? There were so many possibilities, and he found himself wishing that the circus was opened today. But she had told him that it would not be so soon, and once the activity on the dock died down, he slowly turned and made his way back the way he came, back to the Bold Bison Inn. He had originally planned to visit the brothel, but he was completely distracted now, excited to see creatures he had only read about. Maybe the helpful innkeep might have stories of the most recent visit by the circus? He was itching to hear about it and learn what to expect.<br><br>He made his way back towards the inn, his mind and thoughts distracted by a bevy of creatures, beautiful and fantastic.<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nom De Plume</strong> on <strong>12-07-2012, 21:42:36</strong>
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				<span style="font-family: gradl;" class="bbc_font"><strong>Briar Character Post</strong><br><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong> Early Morning<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong>Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Forests south of Dulon Landing<br><strong>Location ending post:</strong> West of Dulon Landing<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong> Possibly Hollywillow<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?</strong> Possibly</span><br><hr>&nbsp; Twenty miles south of Dulon Landing, a wanderer occupied a small clearing among a grove of trees, a lean-to made of canvas and driftwood shielding him from the world. Briar, wrapped tightly in his bedroll, slept fitfully as dawn brought dark clouds in from the sea, suffusing the space with gray twilight. Strange dreams finally woke him from his sleep, somewhat to his discontent. It was early still, far too early for his tastes, but Dulon Landing was still half a day's trek north, and he had no intention on staying another night in the woodlands. Rumours of crazed elves circulated among the animals, and he had no companion to share a nightwatch with.<br><br>&nbsp; The last thought soured Briar's mood further. His last two companions had attempted to stab him in the back in a gambit to liberate Briar of his possessions, not to mention his third of the loot. It would seem that he had misjudged their characters as much as they had misjudged his prowess, and he could only hope their corpses made a good meal for whatever creatures roamed in the mountains south of here. He crawled out of his bedroll onto the forest floor. No time for a fire or to hunt for fresh food, Briar unpacked some of the dried rations he had already collected. He ate atop his bedroll, before packing the camp away. Morning had finally graced the forest canopy, but the light failed to reach him in full; it was beginning to feel like an ominous day.<br><br>&nbsp; And so Briar made his way north, careful and vigilant. He avoided the road, knowing all too well he would be outnumbered by any gang of highwaymen that might be sharing it. But it was not bandits he came across when he ventured a little closer to the path, however. A lone Blood Elf, armed with a pair of wicked knives, was travelling south... And it had spotted him between the trees.<br><br>The elf made a beeline for Briar, it's face set in a crazed grimace. Startled, the Jun fumbled for the blade strapped to his lower back, pulling it free-- and dropping it. A string of curses later, the assailant was upon him, swinging wildly with both daggers. Briar weaved and ducked, hand dipping to his leg to free a dagger of his own, which he lifted between the elves outstretched arms. It sunk deep under the elf's jaw with a squelch of broken flesh. The lunatic's scream of pain was muted, it's teeth forced shut by the knife, it's throat choked with blood. A few spastic, aimless swings later, and the elf went limp in Briar's arms; he set it down carefully, eyeing his surroundings for more surprises.<br><br>&nbsp; A second straggler moved along the side of the road, creeping through the ditch. It's bloodshot eyes moved to and fro, searching for its brother who had run off again, into the forest. It tentatively padded along; first on its feet, dropping occasionally onto a hand to gallop through the underbrush, before shifting back up to sniff the air. Blood was spilt recently. A brother's blood.<br><br>&nbsp; Retreating deeper into the forest, Briar plucked his longbow from his back and an arrow from his quiver, knocking it and drawing back the string. He had spotted the distant blood elf carefully wandering over, but like the first, it was aware of something. Briar would have to make the kill soon, or run. He glanced down the long, monocular sight attached just above the shaft of the arrow, before angling the bow upwards. Briar checked one last time; the Blood Elf had stopped, head upturned.<br><br>&nbsp; Just as the his mark let loose a howl of personal anguish, Briar let loose his arrow. It sung through the air, and with a quiet <em>fwip,</em> sunk it's biting head deep in the elf's throat. The howl turned into a gurgle. Blood shot forth in a jet, and it collapsed backwards, a length of oak tipped with feathers poking through it's neck. Briar swore again, lowering his bow. The returning cries of his victim's companions rang out from across the forest, and already he could see them converge upon the body, tufts of black moving among the trees. He would have to take a detour, Briar conceded, retreating west and away from the road.<br><br><div align="center">*</div><br>&nbsp; When Briar finally began moving north again, the forest had begun to give way to plains to the west. Several long hours of brisk walking followed, though he never relinquished his hold on his bow, the blood of the first elf caked to his gloved hand and armored chest. He continued to skirt along the forest, using it as cover, but the only living thing he became aware of was a herd of horses, and the man tending them. The horses were wild, and their owner-- or protector, rather-- seemed to exude the same feeling of unbridled power. Voices were carried on the wind, one matching the man, and another, more delicate voice, belonging to a still unseen woman. Briar approached with quiet, cat-like strides, observing from a distance.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AribethAmkiir</strong> on <strong>13-07-2012, 09:45:31</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j480/Erion2451/imagesqtbnANd9GcS9_OPu2UlXIEHWAEMAihAw7O4FwIHsbaYiD7B2cxE28OhQxSp7ww.jpg)</div><div align="center"><strong>Hollywillow Character Post</strong></div><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> West of Dulon Landing<br><strong>Location ending post:</strong> West of Dulon Landing<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong> None<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no)</strong>Possibly<br><br>Holly frowned when she saw the discomfort her question had caused the unique stranger.&nbsp; The craggy skin around his eyes suspiciously narrowed in pain even as his body twitched.<br><br>Despite his look he responded, ““I am Castoff, protector of these lands, offspring of Pain and Nature.&nbsp; I protect the living things that have no guardians here, south of Grace.”&nbsp; The capitals of the words “Pain” and “Nature” were evident in his enunciation.<br><br>A wave of his hand indicated the horses, and Holly lifted her eyes toward the distant herd.&nbsp; Holly’s trained eye and natural empathy toward animals led her to notice the reason the man directed her attention to the horses.&nbsp; Blood coated several of the stallions’ flanks, and the animals shied when one of their companions moved too closely to their recently healed wounds.&nbsp; Further, the entire herd looked lean and undernourished.<br><br>Castoff spoke of the cruelty of the Blood Elves.&nbsp; How the twisted creatures were feeding on horseflesh and starving the herd out of pure vileness.&nbsp; The protector’s eyes clouded over and a thorn bush, gnarled and twisted, instantly sprouted at his feet, and twined around each leg to just under the knee.&nbsp; As if signaled, irritated neighs echoed from the herd loud enough to bring Castoff out of his trance.&nbsp; An irritated look was given from the man to the thorn bush.&nbsp; Holly heard a sigh, and then, with a wave, the odd man banished the thorn bush back into the ground.<br><br>“Adventurers freed the horses and I have taken to protecting them more directly than I’d like. The few Blood Elves that remain are a distinct danger, and I will not allow them to eat any more horse flesh,” he spoke and his words carried the weight of a promise.<br><br>Holly stomped her foot as the tale ended.&nbsp; “Nor will I!”&nbsp; The Dryad spoke with outraged anger as Castoff finished his story.&nbsp; “How dare they hurt them.&nbsp; Will you let me attempt to heal the horses?&nbsp; I promise I will not cause them pain.&nbsp; I only want to help.”&nbsp; Her voice was sincere as it could be and her outrage was obviously genuine.<br><br>Castoff turned his gaze from the horses to Holly, “your kind is rare, especially so far south of Grace. What seek ye, creature of beauty and nature?”<br><br>No sign of acknowledgement was given to the compliment, if it was actually a compliment.&nbsp; To Holly it was simply the truth and needed no response.&nbsp; She was as much a child of beauty and nature as Castoff was a child of nature and pain.<br><br>Holly looked at him and blinked vapidly for a moment before she grinned.&nbsp; “Oh, yeah.&nbsp; The others can’t really leave their trees.&nbsp; I don’t know if I’m seeking anything, at this particular moment.&nbsp; I was seeking an old, mysterious tree because they have the best stories, but the trees here played a trick on me and sent me in the wrong direction.&nbsp; Apparently that tree dwells in Grace.&nbsp; I saw the horses a while ago, but the sky is so big here.&nbsp; It didn’t feel like it was safe to leave the tree line.&nbsp; I was going to head toward that smelly village that is nearby because the clouds made me want to, but then I saw you and I’ve never seen anyone able to make plants grow by simply walking.&nbsp; Can you show me how to do that?”<br><br>Her outrage from before had faded almost instantaneously when Castoff had changed the subject, and her expression had changed just as quickly to carefree smile.<br><br>“I can protect the horses from the trees if you want and you can protect them from out there,” she said as she indicated the grassy plains under the deep blue, ominously cloudy sky.<br><br>“Oh, the trees say that somebody is watching us, but they don’t think it’s a Blood Elf.&nbsp; Actually, they’re certain it isn’t a Blood Elf.”<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>13-07-2012, 22:05:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Situation Update</strong></div>Nothing to report; same day. <br><br><div align="center"><strong>Solifria </strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Response in Corann’s post.</div></div><br><div align="center"><strong>Nemea</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">As you travel back through the town toward the Bold Bison, you see Corann and Solifria standing outside another shop with a brightly colored sign labeled “Sea Side Sal’s.” You can even overhear most of what Corann says, as the young man seems to have minimal volume control. </div></div><br><div align="center"><strong>Hollywillow</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Castoff looks at you, then at the horses and shakes his head slowly. “I’ve healed their flesh. What they need now is time, time and for the rain to come to wash them down.” He gestured toward the distant, turbulent horizon. “I sense a Storm of Ages approaching.” Again, the capital letters are audible. <br><br>At your description of yourself, the man merely nods, as though such unexpected things were, at least in this world, fairly common. Finally, at your offer, the man shakes his head again. “I’ll tend the horses. What I really need is for someone to make sure the Blood Elves stop coming after them…”<br><br>He trailed off at your interruption and looked away, toward where Briar hid and nodded, murmuring, “I smell dead Blood Elf on him. Perhaps you and he together can aid me?” The man’s suggestion was accompanied by a twinkling wink and he began ambling back toward the horses, leaving you to your devices – though not so far that you cannot interact with him further.</div></div><br><div align="center"><strong>Briar </strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">You notice that the Blood Elves are strange creatures. Though they have elven features, blood smatters their mouths and their fingers are capped in bone-like tips that seem dangerously sharp. The coating of blood that also accentuates their capped fingers strikes you as innately dangerous – probably diseased (though it might act as a contact poison). You also note that when one dies, the secondary first strikes out toward the corpse, as though to savage it. Now that you’ve seen this, you believe these particular Blood Elves have been driven to new heights of blood-driven savagery. <br><br>As you approach the old man and beautiful woman, you notice both glance your direction. Though you cannot overhear them from such distance, you feel certain your presence has been detected. A few seconds later, you note the old man wander back toward the horses, his posture relaxed. Clearly, he does not feel you are a threat. </div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>13-07-2012, 22:20:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Corann Character Post</strong></div><br><strong>Time of day beginning post: </strong>Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong>Main street outside Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with: </strong>Sol<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no):</strong> No.<br><br>At Sol’s words, Corann’s leanly handsome features brightened into an almost lecherous grin. “You bring out the best in people? That sounds absolutely perfect. There’s nothing a group of people, traveling together to defeat evil and obtain glory need more! Why, among my people, the Storytellers will recite stories of great wars and trials before battle to boil our blood. I bet someone like you would be a great asset, especially out here. With the lesser races.” <br><br>In a way, Corann sounded like he was confiding in Sol, excluding her from the idea that the rest of the world was “lesser” simply because of their conversation thus far. It wasn’t as though he instantly trusted her, not at all; instead, it seemed that he was willing to give her the opportunity to prove herself with absolute conviction that anyone might be an ally worth having. To him, “everyone else” who wasn’t Chosen was unproven flotsam, but once a person seemed to show interest in being more than dross, Corann came across as eager to let them have that opportunity. <br><br>At her protestations, Corann reached out and lay a big hand over her shoulder. Given their size differences, his paw of a hand nearly engulfed her trapezius. “Not all lose limbs. I would protect you. You would bring out the best in me, in all who would travel with us, and I,” he puffed his chest out a bit and tilted his head toward the distant sky, as though visualizing epic conflicts, “would defend you with my own body. Surely that would be enough to assuage your concerns?” He looked down at her and batted his dusky lashes as though eager for her feedback about his performance. Behind those slanted, dangerous eyes, was a hint of amusement, as though Corann knew just how ridiculous it all was – him, standing there in his brightly colored clothes, beseeching her in his overly dramatic way. But the cant of his lips, the moue of amusement, suggested that he was having quite a bit of fun doing it. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>arkhos</strong> on <strong>13-07-2012, 22:47:44</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Nemea Character Post<br>Time of day beginning post: Noonish<br>Time of day ending post: Noonish<br>Location beginning post: Main street outside Seaside Hal's.<br>Location ending post: Main street outside Seaside Hal's<br>Characters currently interacting with: Corann/Sol<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? No<br><hr><br>Nemea's mind was full of wonder and thoughts of the strange circus as he made his way back toward the Inn. He would talk to the friendly innkeep - if he were not too busy - to inquire about past circus appearances. Nemea was eager to learn what he might see at this particular one. Perhaps they had come this way before, and the innkeeper might be able to give him some foresight into what he might expect at their next performance. Just the sight of the creatures - ones he had only ever read about - excited him. And he had only seen a couple of the creatures that the troupe might possess!<br><br>As he was walking down the street past another business, he couldn't help but notice the sight of the large man talking rather boisterously to a much smaller woman who appeared to be afflicted with some sort of skin condition. That didn't bother Nemea at all, his own pale skin having singled him out many times in his past for similar reasons. His curiosity piqued, Nemea couldn't help but be drawn closer to the pair, drawn in by the man's words.<br><em><br>".....a group of people, traveling together to defeat evil and obtain glory need more! Why, among my people, the Storytellers will recite stories of great wars and trials before battle to boil our blood. I bet someone like you would be a great asset, especially out here. With the lesser races.” </em><br><br>Nemea slowly ventured closer, brows raised in curiosity, his manners completely forgotten for the moment. Now THOSE were words that struck a cord in him - and they sounded so much like the themes of many of the books he read of heroes and high adventure. Perhaps these two people were such folk, perhaps they themselves already famous from such travels? Or perhaps they were merely setting out for the first time, eager to explore the world, much like himself?<br><br>Nemea watched and listened quietly as Corann continued to speak. His words seemed to be friendly and protective in nature of the woman whom he addressed, and Nemea imagined that they were already traveling companions of some sort, or possibly more. The man's dress was flamboyant, reminding him of the people on the docks. Could he - or both of these people - be from that band of individuals? He waited quietly, politely, until Corann took a break from speaking, waiting to see if the woman would respond. At a point where he did not think his own speaking would be an overly rude interruption, Nemea stepped forward to within a few feet of them and spoke.<br><br>"Excuse me, but I couldn't help but overhearing your words, sir. Am I to understand that you are a group of glory-seekers, setting out on some great adventure?" he asked. "If so, I would be very interested to hear more, and to inquire about possible open positions within such a band."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bloodied Porcelain</strong> on <strong>15-07-2012, 22:43:05</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab235/bloodiedporcelain/elcharacterpics/childedit1.jpg)</div><em>Solfiria Character Post</em><br><strong>Time of day beginning post</strong>: Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post</strong>: Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post</strong>: Main street outside Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post</strong>: Main street outside Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with</strong>: Corann, Nemea<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?</strong> No<br><hr><br>Sol wasn't entirely sure what to say to this Corann guy. It was like he was intent on getting them both killed. She'd never met someone quite so excited by the idea of charging head first in to battle. Death, glory, combat... it all sounded incredibly stupid, in her opinion. Then again, Sol had seen enough death and near-death in her time, and she got enough danger just doing her own job... there was nothing quite like dealing with a man three times her size going berserk because she'd managed to catch one of his nerves while she was imprinting him with something permanent. Honestly, it was those experiences that meant that Sol looked more forward to temporary imprints than permanent ones... they were less painful. <br><br>When his massive hand set itself down on her tiny shoulder, Sol nearly stumbled, and she was absolutely certain that his steady grip was the only reason why she didn't fall over outright. Forcing her legs to stay steady under her, she looked up at him doubtfully as he swore he'd protect her. Somehow, that was nowhere near as comforting as she was sure he meant it to be. Perhaps it was the fact that he seemed like a large child... no man should ever be excited by the idea of death and battle... from what Sol had seen of the world, there was nothing glorious about death. No indeed the young woman, born of storms, thought that seeing glory in death as an overly romantic fantasy. <br><br>She had just opened her mouth to tell him she thought he was talking to the wrong person if he was looking for someone to accompany him in to the maws of danger, when another male voice sounded behind her. Turning, she looked over the hand that still held her shoulder at the tall, white haired, red eyed man behind her. Unable to help herself, her brow went up about halfway to her hairline as she looked him over. Good Gods above... what was it with these two? Was it just a big man thing? Glancing between them, she eyed them both doubtfully. <br><br>After a moment of looking at the white haired giant, she looked back at Corann and carefully lifted his heavy hand from her tiny shoulder before she rotated her arm, trying to loosen up the muscles that had tensed as she tried to keep her shoulder solid beneath the weight of his hand and arm. "Well... see? Looks like you have another companion already... no need for someone like me, I'd just take up space. You two have a nice day now," she said, trying to sound polite even as she tried to take her opportunity to get the hell out of dodge. <br><br>Somewhere in the back of her mind, a small hopeful voice was whispering that there was no guarantee these two would treat her like everyone else had her entire life. The man with the white hair was no doubt in the same boat as her in some ways... his looks were outlandish, no doubt he'd been tormented at times in his life... perhaps he'd understand. And this Corann guy... he wasn't honestly so odd looking, but he wasn't exactly normal either. Perhaps she'd find a place she could be herself without fear of... No. NO! Pushing that hopeful voice in to a closet and locking it away firmly, she shook her head at her own thoughts. She wasn't going to risk it. It wasn't worth it. <br><br>Attempting to forget the voice's ideas and to convince herself once more that she was better off alone, she turned to go, though her movements seemed less than eager at moments.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>arkhos</strong> on <strong>15-07-2012, 23:11:52</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Nemea Character Post<br>Time of day beginning post: Noonish<br>Time of day ending post: Noonish<br>Location beginning post: Main street outside Seaside Hal's.<br>Location ending post: Main street outside Seaside Hal's<br>Characters currently interacting with: Corann/Sol<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? No<br><hr><br>No sooner than the question and words had left his lips, than the woman had turned to face him, and then indicated a desire to leave. Shame crept over Nemea's heart - he had interrupted, perhaps even rudely so, and made the poor woman feel unwelcome in doing so, and apparently made her feel the urge to depart. He felt the urge to make amends immediately.<br><br>"Oh, I apologize, my lady. I did not mean to... barge in, or... or interrupt, or... or make you feel like you had to go."<br><br>Hadn't he, though? He couldn't decide, truthfully. He had merely wanted to catch them before they walked off, and had stepped on figurative toes in his excitement to speak to them.<br><br>"Please, finish your visit with your friend and I shall take my leave. I'm staying at the Bison, and either of you can reach me there at a more appropriate time should your company be looking for another. Again - my apologies for the intrusion. I meant no offense," he said, bowing slightly to the two of them.<br><br>He had no intentions of chasing the woman off, and reminded himself that despite his rather isolated upbringing, he wasn't 'home' anymore and would need to be more mindful of the manners and ways of the locals. He was still learning, he knew, so he attempted to give himself the benefit of the doubt, but the last thing he wanted to do was insult anyone, especially a kind lady with some sort of ailment.<br><br>He began to move away, almost -racing- Sol to exit the area. He was tall, true, but nowhere near the giant of a man that Corann was. With a slight blush that was clearly visible on his pale skin, he made to leave.<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>18-07-2012, 05:04:38</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Corann Character Post</strong></div><br><strong>Time of day beginning post: </strong>Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong>Main street outside Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with: </strong>Sol\Nemea<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no):</strong> No.<br><br>At Nemea’s approach, Corann looked up, his cat-slit eyes filled with a certain wary bemusement. A subtle shifting of his stance would cue Nemea in that the Chosen was the sort of person who could handle himself in a fight. If all the weapons adoring him gave no such clues. Yet at the timber of the newcomer’s words, Corann’s stance relaxed, if only just a bit.<br><br>When Sol swept his hand off her shoulder, Corann took his hand back from her. There were people out in the world who feared death, Corann knew – people who avoided glory and adventure for the sake of peace and safety. It was the way of things: some people moved with the world, some people moved the world. Nothing about the mysterious woman had indicated she was an adventurer and her actions indicated that, perhaps, he had misjudged her. He let her go, murmuring a soft apology, his timber suddenly a basso rumble of, “I understand. For some, glory is neither means nor end,&nbsp; my little friend. Still, perhaps wherever your skills lie – whatever they are – you can aid others?”<br><br>Seeing Namea turn to go, Corann called out, “Hold there, friend. There is no need to flee. Clearly, there is some sort of miscommunication. I’ve been told that I can be…overly eager and scare the Lesser Peoples.” He flashed a broad, guile-less smile at the pair of them. <br><br>“I have approached the lady inappropriately, offering adventure, when clearly she wants no such thing. You, on the other hand, seem a kindred spirit. All the same,” he tilted his head down to address Sol, “The nature about you tells me that you are an outsider. Even if you are not an adventurer, perhaps there is more we can gain from one another, besides dragging you into danger?”<br><br>He tried to take both in, beseeching calm discourse rather than fleeing in terror and something of a golden nimbus flared about his body, a charismatic curtain that seemed to enhance his smile, the sense of the man’s native honor and honesty. Though Corann might be a brash, arrogant, fool, he did not come across as entirely suicidal or evil. <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nom De Plume</strong> on <strong>19-07-2012, 05:30:10</strong>
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				<span style="font-family: gradl;" class="bbc_font"><strong>Briar Character Post</strong><br><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong> Early Morning<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong>Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Forests south of Dulon Landing<br><strong>Location ending post:</strong> West of Dulon Landing<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong> Possibly Hollywillow<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?</strong> Possibly</span><br><hr><br>&nbsp; It certainly looked like the jig was up, with the old man spotting Briar in a matter of moments. Damned dryads-- and that was what the elder appeared to be-- were a pain to sneak up on. And what was one of his kind doing so far from Grace? As Castoff wandered back to his horses, Briar spared an admonishing glance to a nearby tree and began his approach once again. Curiosity had gotten the better of him, and he needed to see to whom that musical voice had belonged to, anyway. <br><br>&nbsp; As Briar broke into the clearing, his curiosity piqued. The moss that draped her frame, the subtle texture of her skin, the elven curves; she was either one of the druid's from Grace or a dryad herself. Briar arched a brow, his gaze flickering surreptitiously between the woman, the old man and back again. At least she seemed a little friendlier than the man tending to the horses. Briar still felt something deeply unsettling about the man, something he could not quite put his finger on.<br><br>&nbsp; His approach became more cautious, the slow, careful strides of a man moving into unfamiliar territory. He offered Hollywillow a smile that spoke with much more passiveness than the bow in his hand or the blood on his armor. Noticing the current state of his ware and the duplicity of his expression, Briar let the smile recede into the barest hint of amusement, instead. "Ho there, stranger. A little far from home, are you?"
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bloodied Porcelain</strong> on <strong>19-07-2012, 20:56:13</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab235/bloodiedporcelain/elcharacterpics/childedit1.jpg)</div><em>Solfiria Character Post</em><br><strong>Time of day beginning post</strong>: Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post</strong>: Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post</strong>: Main street outside Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post</strong>: Main street outside Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with</strong>: Corann, Nemea<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?</strong> No<br><hr><br>Solfiria was stunned by the white haired man's sudden rush to get out of the area. It was like he'd been bitten by an animal or confronted with his worst fear, the way he was racing her to depart Corann's company. "No! ... I mean, no, no you weren't interrupting or anything," she stammered as one tiny hand reached out to grab his arm. Her grip was firm, though surprisingly gentle - even to her. Pausing as her hand rested against his bicep, she blinked and slowly pulled it back as a blush colored the skin hidden beneath the obsidian veil and hood she wore. <br><br>Her mismatched eyes were somewhat wide, showing a hint of confusion and even fear as she stood there. Corann had felt like a raging storm all on his own but this one... this one felt like a storm that was still building, pressure slowly forming within the writhing clouds. Withdrawing her hand, she heard Corann's insistance that she could still help them, even if glory wasn't something she saught out. "No, really, I'd just get in the wa-" she had begun to turn and continue on her way, only to find herself stopped short. Nemea's foot had come to stop on the hem of her robe and as she tried to walk away from them both, in a hurry to get away from two madmen out for glory, fame, riches, and death, her upper body was yanked backward even as her lower body continued on it's way, sending her sprawling and landing unceremoniously on her backside. <br><br>Hitting her bottom hard, she landed with a soft squeak of surprise and pain welled up inside of her as she sat there, her entire face and even the tips of her pointed ears turning red with embarrassment. The hood of her robe had come somewhat loose in the front and though it still covered her elfin ears, a few pieces of white hair tinged with that odd blue-silver hue fell out to dance across her forehead, obscuring the sun carved between her eyes. Hands lifting in haste, she began to desperately try to tuck her hair back under the safety of the black fabric, mismatched eyes looking around rapidly as panic hit her. Not even a few hours in town and already she had nearly been revealed to the natives. <br><br>Muttering to herself, Sol kept her eyes down as she began to struggle to her feet making small sounds of annoyance and embarrassment, not looking at the two men as she tried to put her hood and hair right without exposing more of her face than was necessary. <em>They didn’t see… they didn’t see…</em> became her inner mantra, that small hopeful voice taking over again though this time it was begging whatever Gods were listening that the two men standing there hadn’t seen her hair or more of her face than they already had. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>arkhos</strong> on <strong>20-07-2012, 01:58:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Nemea Character Post<br>Time of day beginning post: Noonish<br>Time of day ending post: Noonish<br>Location beginning post: Main street outside Seaside Hal's.<br>Location ending post: Main street outside Seaside Hal's<br>Characters currently interacting with: Corann/Sol<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? No<br><hr><br>Nemea was focused on Corann's words and taken in by them, he turned back and focused on the two strangers once more. Then he heard Solfiria speak, and he focused on her words as well, so much that he hadn't looked down, and didn't realize that he had stepped on the hem of her robe. <br><br>She tried to move and fell awkwardly, pulling the hem tight against the bottom of his booted foot such that he immediately realized what he had done.<br><br>"Oh! Goodness!" he exclaimed, his pale face blushing brightly as he jerked his foot away, and moved to help her if she would allow it. "My apologies, I certainly did not mean to cause you to fall," he said, "How clumsy of me!"<br><br>Nemea couldn't help but notice the rich hair, the mismatched eyes, and the strange skin imprint that he saw for the split moment that more of her skin - and hair - were bared to him. She made quick work of covering herself again, including tucking her hair away where it could not be seen. Her hair was light, like his own, with a blue-silver tint that was vibrant to his eyes. He couldn't help but wonder -why- she would choose to hide it, when it was so beautiful to look upon. Of course, that was one possible reason - so that fops like himself wouldn't stand around gawking at it in the first place.<br><br>The engravings on her skin were also curious. He had seen someone else like that before, only once, and was curious about it then, as well. He wasn't able to speak to that man, though, so he had nearly forgotten about it. He thought to ask her these questions and more, but he had already interrupted her conversation AND been responsible for knocking the gentle lady to the ground. He doubted she would be up for answering any of his questions now.<br><br>He glanced back and forth between her and the big male standing with them, and in an effort to save what little dignity he had remaining, after ensuring Solfiria was well, he quickly spoke. "As way of apology, I would wish to invite you both to the Inn for a drink, on me, if you would enjoy such a thing?" he asked. He had read in books that such things were considered kind courtesies, and perhaps he might begin to make it up to them, the lady especially, if they were to accept.<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>21-07-2012, 07:28:00</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Corann Character Post</strong></div><br><strong>Time of day beginning post: </strong>Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong>Main street outside Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with: </strong>Sol\Nemea<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no):</strong> No.<br><br>Corann watched it all with a certain barely veiled amusement. Though the trained warrior might have intercepted Sol’s fall, he did not act for numerous reasons. For one, he didn’t think Sol would enjoy his unrequested contact. For another, he wanted to see how the newcomer would react. Corann knew the look of someone experienced in conflict, though he did not immediately ascertain the other man’s qualifications and skills by any means. Hence, standing still and looking a bit taken aback by the near pratfall of ass-on-paved city streets.<br><br>When Sol’s face came into view, Corann gasped, a bit louder than he had to, strictly speaking, and said, “Well, what do you know? She’s not diseased. Esteron be praised!” He waved a hand to the sky in an offhand gesture totally at odds with his apparent worship of the being known as Esteron. <br><br>Once Nemea and Sol were more-or-less settled again, Corann nodded toward the Inn. “I’d love a drink and company both! Perhaps we can find some…” He paused, leaned close to Nemea and whispered, voice a little too innately loud for the words not to carry to Sol’s delicate ears, “glory!”<br><br><em>It is of note here that Corann’s default voice seemed to be about twenty decibels louder than he intended at any given time: whispers were approximately the volume of normal speaking voices and his exclamations were positively shouts. A keen observer might deduce that he’d been trained to shout over battlefields, or simply never taught to use his “speaking with others not twenty feet away” voice. Whichever it was, he seemed entirely unconcerned about it. </em><br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AribethAmkiir</strong> on <strong>21-07-2012, 08:48:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j480/Erion2451/imagesqtbnANd9GcS9_OPu2UlXIEHWAEMAihAw7O4FwIHsbaYiD7B2cxE28OhQxSp7ww.jpg)</div><div align="center"><strong>Hollywillow Character Post</strong></div><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> West of Dulon Landing<br><strong>Location ending post:</strong> West of Dulon Landing<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong> None<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no)</strong>Possibly<br><br>Holly watched as Castoff walked away.&nbsp; Oh well, killing blood elves was something to do, and it was worthwhile too.&nbsp; Something that needed to be done in order to protect the horses, the forest, and her Mother.&nbsp; She had no eagerness though, even if she was willing to do it.&nbsp; The blood elves were still living creatures even if they'd somehow become twisted, foul, wicked things.&nbsp; After a moment's contemplation, Holly shrugged.&nbsp; The tree didn't mourn the loss of the termite.<br><br>The trees whispered to her of the man's approach.&nbsp; She'd have to talk to him eventually, especially if she needed his help to exterminate the forest's disease.&nbsp; She coked her head to the side when Briar made himself known to her.&nbsp; Robin blue eyes inspected him curiously and without judgement.&nbsp; Blood soaked armor and bow were noted before her gaze moved to Briar's face and eyes.&nbsp; There was truth in a person's eyes.&nbsp; Briar's eyes didn't reflect any malice, just caution and possibly amusement.&nbsp; Holly didn't know why he'd be amused, but maybe he'd heard a joke that he was remembering.<br><br>"Hello?"&nbsp; Holly replied.&nbsp; "No, I'm not that far from home.&nbsp; Though you are.&nbsp; The forest thanks you for your help though, but we need more of it.&nbsp; The creatures you met earlier, the one's whose blood you still wear, they are a cancer to this place and must be removed.&nbsp; You seem capable."<br><br>Holly walked into a clearing, away from the protection of the nearby trees, but still under their canopy.&nbsp; The moss which covered her body framed her ample curves and did more to spark the imagination than obscure her body.&nbsp; Holly seemingly didn't care if he was looking at her, or lusting after her.&nbsp; Mortals had such peculiar needs and desires.&nbsp; Things she didn't really understand, and never had much chance to explore.<br><br>"Will you help me eliminate this threat?&nbsp; If you feel the need for more help there is a village nearby.&nbsp; It stinks, but <em>you</em> could recruit more help and I could wait for you outside of the village.&nbsp; Humans like to kill things, perhaps one of them would be willing to help," Holly said without judgement, just innocent honesty.&nbsp; Or at least honesty from her viewpoint.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bloodied Porcelain</strong> on <strong>21-07-2012, 22:32:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab235/bloodiedporcelain/elcharacterpics/childedit1.jpg)</div><em>Solfiria Character Post</em><br><strong>Time of day beginning post</strong>: Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post</strong>: Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post</strong>: Main street outside Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post</strong>: Main street outside Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with</strong>: Corann, Nemea<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?</strong> No<br><hr><br>Shapely bottom smarting, Sol accepted the offer of help up from the man responsible for her fall in the first place. Her tiny hand grabbed his, her sleeve slipping up just enough to expose the imprints on the backs of her fingers and hand. When she was upright, she immediately pulled his hand back and covered her own with her sleeve once more, glancing up at him to try to discern if he'd seen those features that not only made her who she was, but defined her as an outsider… a freak… never to be part of society no matter how much she may wish for it. <br><br>The look on his face was both shocked and curious, making her quite certain he’d at least caught a glimpse but perhaps wasn’t entirely sure what he’d seen. Brushing the dirt from her robes, she frowned behind her veil, but a moment later, Corann’s voice was booming loudly over the sounds of people moving around them. Eyes going wide as he proclaimed that she wasn’t diseased, she stared at him incredulously. What in the name of the Gods was wrong with him? Fighting the urge to reach out and use one of her marks to silence him, she balled her tiny hands in to fists inside the sleeves of her robes. His near mocking “whisper” of the word glory made her jaw work tensely behind her veil and she was suddenly quite certain that it was more than just his wish for death and dismemberment that made her dislike him. <br><br>He was also an ass. Fighting the urge to rip in to him verbally if for no other reason than she knew that he was now aware of her odd looks and could expose her at any moment and have her run out of town on a whim, she bit back a growl of annoyance. When the white haired male invited them for a drink, Sol was torn. Say no and get the hell out of there as soon as possible, risking the big one running his mouth about her, or stay and keep an eye on him but in turn tolerate his presence.<em>Decisions, decisions…</em> she thought, but finally spoke, looking at Nemea, attempting a nonchalant shrug. “Sure. Might as well,” she murmured, her mismatched eyes flicking back to Corann for a moment as if to be sure he was still there and hadn’t walked away. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>arkhos</strong> on <strong>22-07-2012, 20:22:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Nemea Character Post<br>Time of day beginning post: Noonish<br>Time of day ending post: Noonish<br>Location beginning post: Main street outside Seaside Hal's.<br>Location ending post: Bold Bison Inn<br>Characters currently interacting with: Corann/Sol/any other in area<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? No<br><hr><br>Nemea smiled shyly at both Corann and Solfiria as they agreed to sit down for a drink and perhaps talk for awhile. This was so FUN! Meeting new and interesting people, and getting to know the lesser races better!<br><br>~NOT lesser races,~ a voice in his mind echoed. He reminded himself that they weren't, despite all that his mother had tried to teach him. Everything he had read about the peoples of the land indicated that they were equals to his own kind in almost every way, and even superior in other ways. He reminded himself that his mother was a bit biased - and a bit of a racist, as well. He could will himself through that, though - he wasn't his mother's puppet or mirror-image by any stretch. <br><br>"Are you sure you are alright, lady?" he asked Solfiria, true concern in his voice. He was naturally curious about the various women of the world in particular, being at that age where women were biologically being forced into the forefront of his mind. But even more than that, he didn't want to come across like some uncouth selfish bastard. "If I damaged your clothing, I would be happy to replace it for you at my expense, of course," he said to the woman as he turned and began walking in the direction of the Bison, slowly, his head turned to look at the two to make sure they were following, as well.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>23-07-2012, 06:12:26</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Situation Update</strong><br><br>The tabletop game is about 4-5 days ahead of this one. Nothing the tabletop group has done further impacts this scenario. Yet. However, large events will go down in the town near Siara’s place of business in a few hours from the current forum campaign time. Feel free to direct your PCs in that direction if you want a peek and a potential opportunity to interface with some larger, overarching plot. <br><br>As time progresses, even given that the PCs are simply engaged in conversation, a feeling of ominous portent begins to rise from the West, off the coast and the storm clouds there continue to roil. Within an hour they will redouble in size. Any character with a magical nature may feel free to investigate. Characters without one may feel free to investigate by interfacing with other characters or NPCs. <br><br><div align="center"><strong>Solifria</strong></div> <div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Response in Corann’s post. Thanks for making it easy :P</div></div><div align="center"><strong>Nemea</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Response in Corann’s post. Thanks for making it easy :P</div></div><div align="center"><strong>Hollywillow</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">No GM response needed. Have fun with Briar. </div></div><div align="center"><strong>Briar </strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">No GM response needed. Have fun with Holly. </div></div>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>23-07-2012, 06:26:23</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Corann Character Post</strong></div><br><strong>Time of day beginning post: </strong>Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong>From Seaside Sal’s to the Bold Bison<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with: </strong>Sol\Nemea<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no):</strong> No.<br><br>Despite his rough appearance and seeming lack of awareness about anything resembling social mores outside of his own culture, Corann took Sol’s silence and glances in with receptive understanding. This newcomer clearly had appealed to the girl’s quieter, gentler nature on a level the Chosen had not. Oh well, the little people were fragile, emotionally and physically, and he dared not push things further in his zeal to accomplish world-changing goals.<br><br>“Say, mister, my name is Corann,” Corann said as he took a few steps forward, moving to pace with Nemea – not to entirely exclude Sol, but to give her a reprieve from his hotter-than-the-sun personality. “I’m one of the Chosen,” he added as an afterthought. The sudden appearance of almost half a million Chosen when the race had been on the brink of extinction had partially changed the face of the continent, altering political structures, impacting geographic areas, sending tremors throughout everything with enough sense to be self-aware and more than a few things that weren’t. What he was declaring went far beyond common knowledge, yet in his statement was the tacit admission that his people weren’t the center of the world and that Namea had arrived by boat. Who knew what the odd looking elf was familiar with?<br><br>When the trio entered the Bold Bision, they found several dozen sailors occupying much of the room. The air felt like a massive low pressure zone, as though the inclement storm had sucked it all away to the point that it was hard to breathe, despite the fact that it was not yet the case. Everyone there, human, elf, and even a couple Dulosians, seemed worried and tense and the mammoth bartender, despite being skilled at diplomacy and showing graceful kindness, was impacted. His hand shook a bit on his mug and a sharp listener would hear him muttering something about, “…again. It’s coming again. The world can’t survive another war. It just can’t!” But he suppressed the mutters, ushered the trio to a big table – the only one sizeable enough to accommodate all three and with several chairs to spare – and took their orders graciously.<br><br>Corann searched his pockets, finding nothing, and responded in a whisper (for him), “Sir Keep, I have no money. Perhaps some water?” The giant of an inn keeper nodded absently, with no sign of disapproval and turned his attention toward Sol and Namea. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>arkhos</strong> on <strong>23-07-2012, 07:05:13</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Nemea Character Post<br>Time of day beginning post: Noonish<br>Time of day ending post: Noonish<br>Location beginning post: Bold Bison Inn<br>Location ending post: Bold Bison Inn<br>Characters currently interacting with: Corann/Sol/any other in area<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? No<br><hr><br>Nemea looked at the large man as he introduced himself. As he had read in books was the custom in these lands, Nemea nodded, and offered his arm in greeting. "Well-met, Corann, I am Nemea."<br><br>He was tempted to ask the big man, "Chosen of -what-," but then he remembered reading something about 'THE Chosen'. The information was vague, but he seemed to recall that they were an actual race of people. And from what he had seen so far, a race of -loud- people. Big, strong, there could be no doubt of that as well. The snow-haired elf decided to refrain from further questions - he had already been rude to each of these people once today, and to the lady, twice.<br><br>He walked with them to the inn, looking over his shoulder constantly back towards the ominous sky. He had no idea if this was a normal occurrence here or not, but he couldn't remember reading about it. Perhaps it was just a 'colorful' storm? Nemea would love to think that, but the niggling at the back of his mind, the sense of magic in the air told him that it was to be something altogether different.<br><br>They were shown to a seat, and Nemea let the other two take seats before he sat, as he remembered reading was proper. The keep came over to inquire about their orders, and Nemea decided to go last. Hearing Corann's 'whisper' about the lack of coin, Nemea quickly interjected. <br><br>"No, sir, please - a drink of your choice, by my own coin purse. I owe you and the lady that much for the way I rudely interrupted you," he said, "And by my count I owe the lady a second, as well," he added, making sure that Corann and Solfiria knew that they were entitled to a beverage of their choice on his account.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nom De Plume</strong> on <strong>23-07-2012, 07:51:37</strong>
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				<span style="font-family: gradl;" class="bbc_font"><strong>Briar Character Post</strong><br><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong>Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> West of Dulon Landing<br><strong>Location ending post:</strong> West of Dulon Landing<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong> Hollywillow<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?</strong>None</span><br><hr><br>&nbsp; "Aeyun is my home, lass-- the whole gods-damned continent," and with this, Briar offered a respectful bow. His eyes never left the woman, though they wandered up and down again. <em>My, is she a looker... And quite to the point.</em> The Jun smiled a little wider, a little more mirth in it then before. Everyone wanted something.<br><br>&nbsp; Briar cleared his throat, knelt in front of the woman and unslung his pack. "If the forest wants a name to thank, that name is Singh. And I'd be glad to lend my capability to it's aid, if not for the storm rolling in." Briar looked skywards, towards the darkening clouds, and offered a small, nonchalant wag of his bearded chin towards it. "The world is conspiring against my plans to help it once again, it would seem." Briar set the bow to his pack and refastened the latches that held it in place. He paused for a moment, brows furrowed; one of the latches had broken in his haste to unsling the weapon.<br><br>&nbsp; The man chuckled and turned his gaze back up to Hollywillow as his hands worked to tie the bow down with two strips of cloth that barely held onto the satchel. "And so is my pack. Well, my lady-of-the-woods, if you would be so kind as to walk with me to at least the edge of the Landing, you might share in my lamentation should my bow fall free and break in seven places," Briar said, and amusement colored his words despite the slipshod state of his wares. He moved back to his feet and reslung his pack, suddenly much more sober in expression. "And on the way, we can discuss exactly why you came to help this forest in particular. I'm sure I have plenty of stories of murdering hapless, crazed elves on the road to regale you with in return."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AribethAmkiir</strong> on <strong>23-07-2012, 09:44:27</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j480/Erion2451/imagesqtbnANd9GcS9_OPu2UlXIEHWAEMAihAw7O4FwIHsbaYiD7B2cxE28OhQxSp7ww.jpg)</div><div align="center"><strong>Hollywillow Character Post</strong></div><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> West of Dulon Landing<br><strong>Location ending post:</strong> West of Dulon Landing<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong> None<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no)</strong> No<br><br><strong>"That's an awfully big home,"</strong> Holly replied with a skeptical look.<br><br>Nobody took up the entire continent for their own dwelling space.&nbsp; More than likely the Jun meant that he went where he pleased, or treated everything with the same respect he'd treat his home.&nbsp; She liked the later thought and decided, without further thought, that was what the man meant.<br><br>Another curious look was given to the stranger as he bowed to her.&nbsp; With a giggle, Holly bowed in return, dipping deeply and gracefully, the moss she wore for clothing draped her chest at gravity's whim.&nbsp; Holly's own robin-blue eyes mirrored Briar's mirth.&nbsp; This was a most excellent game to be played and she wondered if this was part of a dance or just this man's way of greeting new people.&nbsp; Either way it was much more enjoyable than a simple handshake.<br><br>"Singh?"&nbsp; She asked curiously.&nbsp; "Is that your name or the name of another?"&nbsp; The way he had said it, she thought perhaps it was a name of his God.&nbsp; She only worshiped nature and was otherwise indifferent to the deities of the main races.&nbsp; "The forest provides for all, must it truly give thanks for kindness in return?"<br><br>Her gaze moved toward the west and the ominous storm clouds.&nbsp; She had done her best to forget about the angry grey clouds.&nbsp; She didn't want to think of the uprooted trees or possible fire the storm could bring with it, and the feeling she received from simply looking at the unnatural clouds made her feel as nervous as a doe.&nbsp; She quickly turned her attention to the man, his bow, and his pack.&nbsp; She thought about offering to help, but he didn't ask for it and she had found that mortals, especially male mortals, tended to like to do things themselves.&nbsp; Some could be downright stubborn about it.<br><br>"The world wouldn't conspire against you.&nbsp; The storm is unnatural, and it is more likely caused by someone or something up to no good than the entire world setting itself against you.&nbsp; My guess would be a wizard, they're never up to any good."&nbsp; Holly stopped and looked at Briar, "you're not a wizard by any chance, are you?"<br><br>An autumn red eyebrow arched drastically as she gave him a thoughtful look.&nbsp; The bear certainly fit a wizard, but she'd never seen a wizard use a bow.&nbsp; Though, when she thought about it she hadn't seen this man use his bow either.&nbsp; Wizards could be tricky.&nbsp; They were known for their cunning and deceit.&nbsp; He was wearing armor, however, and that was something wizard didn't do.&nbsp; Unless he was trying to trick her.&nbsp; &nbsp;Holly gave a questioning look to the nearest tree before placing her hand on her hip as if waiting for something.&nbsp; A moment later her expression returned to that of mirth.&nbsp; It had taken a moment but the trees had claimed they had seen him use the bow, and that was all the proof she needed.<br><br>"My name is Holly, but you can call me Lady-of-the-Woods if you want.&nbsp; Though technically this is a forest.&nbsp; I just don't think Lady-of-the-Forest has the same ring to it.&nbsp; Isn't that how the saying goes?&nbsp; "Right to it"?"&nbsp; She inspected his pack and shrugged.&nbsp; "Likely can find a new one in the smelly old village.&nbsp; Why would you want your bow to break?&nbsp; Do you not like using it?&nbsp; The village likely has a bow too, but you would need money.&nbsp; Shiny, sparkly coins, at least.&nbsp; I don't understand why people use coins.&nbsp; If the bush grows fruit and the deer needs it, the bush doesn't charge the deer to eat.&nbsp; Mortals are so peculiar."&nbsp; She rambled in her melodic voice.&nbsp; <br><br>She waited for him to collect his stuff and stand before continuing.<br><br>"Oh, that's easy.&nbsp; The forest needed help.&nbsp; So do the horses, and Castoff.&nbsp; I never did learn what he was.&nbsp; He was quite unique though.&nbsp; Flowers bloomed where he walked.&nbsp; I asked if he could teach me how to do that but he didn't want to tell me.&nbsp; Maybe if I think really hard I'll figure it out.&nbsp; You can't make flowers grow from your footsteps, can you?&nbsp; If you can will you show me how?"<br><br>She paused and made a disagreeable face.&nbsp; "Why would I want to hear stories of you slaughtering elves?&nbsp; Even the twisted, evil, corrupt blood elves are living creatures.&nbsp; They need to be eliminated, but the stories shouldn't be something regal or elegant.&nbsp; No more than the wolf boasts when it culls the herd.&nbsp; Do you have stories of people who grow flowers when they walk?&nbsp; I'd like to hear stories about them if you know any?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bloodied Porcelain</strong> on <strong>26-07-2012, 03:12:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab235/bloodiedporcelain/elcharacterpics/childedit1.jpg)</div><em>Solfiria Character Post</em><br><strong>Time of day beginning post</strong>: Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post</strong>: Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post</strong>: Main street outside Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post</strong>: Main street outside Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with</strong>: Corann, Nemea<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?</strong> No<br><hr><br>Sol stood there, watching as the two men conversed and when Nemea asked if she was sure she was alright, the tiny woman swathed in black simply nodded and uttered a quiet "I'm fine." Her two toned eyes moved to the sky... it was like there was a magnet between the heavens and herself, because she couldn't bring herself to cease staring up at the ominous clouds that threatened the world with rain. Her heart sped up as the entire place seemed to grow progressively more and more stifling, like the clouds were just about ready to burst and drench them all. She welcomed the rain. She welcomed the thunder... the lightning. <br><br>Though she had no idea why, Sol felt like the most natural place in the world for her would be in an area without shelter when those clouds burst and poured their torrent down on her. She felt almost as if being bare while the rain drops bore down on her hard enough to leave small red marks and bruises would be the most ideal, the most comfortable thing in the world. Chewing her lip behind her veil, she looked toward the two men in time to see them moving toward the Inn ahead of her. Another glance at the clouds above had her tempted to stay outside and wait and watch... but manners forced her to follow them. Besides... Sol never turned down a free drink... especially when the man paying for it wasn't the one pouring it. <br><br>Inside the Inn, she glanced at her two companions and then up at the bartender before speaking just loud enough to be heard, her sensitive elvish hearing having picked up the mammoth of a man's uttering. As she frowned in concern at his words, she gave him her answer... a simple, somewhat cheap liquor with a lot of bite that was as likely to knock someone off their feet than to get them drunk. But hell... she'd spent the last few years drinking in the worst places... bad, strong alcohol was nothing new to her. Corann had introduced himself but she stayed silent. Honestly, she hadn't heard of a chosen before but had no real desire to learn exactly what they were... especially if it meant questioning the jack ass. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>31-07-2012, 07:18:39</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Situation Update</strong><br><br>See previous update. For those of you in isolation (Briar and Holly), feel free to keep posting until you get to a place where you might join the group, or until you need GM intervention. There's no specific time constraint, just avoid big jumps into the future. <br><br><div align="center"><strong>Solifria </strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Responses had in roleplay.</div></div><div align="center"><strong>Nemea</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Responses had in roleplay.</div></div><div align="center"><strong>Hollywillow</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Castoff is still within view, just a few hundred feet away tending the horses. You can see him casting worried glances at the inclement storm, murmuring something under his breath. </div></div><div align="center"><strong>Briar </strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Castoff is still within view, just a few hundred feet away tending the horses. You can see him casting worried glances at the inclement storm, murmuring something under his breath. </div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>31-07-2012, 07:25:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Corann Character Post</strong></div><br><strong>Time of day beginning post: </strong>Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong> Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with: </strong>Sol\Nemea<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no):</strong> No.<br><br>Corann took Nemea’s offer in with a bright, innocent smile that nearly cut his face in half. The smile looked oddly out of place among the otherwise hard-features of the Chosen’s visage, but not when considering the motley, bright garb that he wore. As he sat there, an explosion of color covering his muscular body as though some rainbow-fairy had climaxed across him, there even came a hint of vague jingling chimes. Perhaps whomever he’d taken the clothes from had been a jester and had hidden bells within his garb. Given that this was the first time Corann had made such a sound, it was probable that it originated from his rear.<br><br>Flushing a bit, Corann quickly announced, “No, Chosen do not fart chiming sounds. That was not me.” He looked at both of his companions, then around the room to make sure no one was laughing at him, his glare backed by a sense of awareness of just how absurd he must look, then turned his attention back to the inn keeper. <br><br>“Simple ale, please sir. Drink is dangerous, or so my father taught me.” Corann nodded, emphasizing the point, much to the bemusement of the giant inn keeper who took the other two in with an even gaze before leaving and quickly returning with the aforementioned requested drinks.<br><br>“So, anyhow,” Corann began once they were alone and be-drinked. “I hear there are a few blood elves south of town. And I hear they have good loot. Probably..” he lowered his voice to hushed, reverent tones, “they have enough coin for me to afford new clothes. Or have clothes themselves.” He leaned back in his seat and smiled again, as though certain his newfound companions would immediately see the wisdom in his desire for their quest. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>arkhos</strong> on <strong>12-08-2012, 11:46:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Nemea Character Post<br>Time of day beginning post: Noonish<br>Time of day ending post: Noonish<br>Location beginning post: Bold Bison Inn<br>Location ending post: Bold Bison Inn<br>Characters currently interacting with: Corann/Sol/any other in area<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? No<br><hr><br>Nemea's eyebrow shot up at the odd 'sound', and then noticed Corann looking around, trying to appear as innocent as possible. "I assure you both, it wasn't me," he said, shaking his head slightly with a serious look on his brow. He was unsure if such a gesture here would be part of local custom, or perhaps it was something that Corann's people practiced in particular. Whatever it was, he was fairly surprised that such a custom would include the sound of bells.<br><br>"Blood Elves," Nemea repeated after a moment. "Are they a danger to the area?" he asked, but he had a good idea what the answer was. Still, what he had read of that race might very well be different of said race here in this part of the world. He had to remind himself daily that not -every- single person of a given species is the same, or has the same morals or beliefs. "If they are a nuisance, then perhaps we... the three of us... should pay them a visit! Or do you think we might recruit further aid, more able swords and perhaps mages to accompany us on the road?" he asked, then glanced over to Solifria for her thoughts on the matter.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bloodied Porcelain</strong> on <strong>12-08-2012, 21:29:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab235/bloodiedporcelain/elcharacterpics/childedit1.jpg)</div><em>Solfiria Character Post</em><br><strong>Time of day beginning post</strong>: Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post</strong>: Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post</strong>: Main street outside Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post</strong>: Main street outside Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with</strong>: Corann, Nemea<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?</strong> No<br><hr><br>When her drink was served, Sol seemed quite intent on it, taking it from the bar keep with a slight nod of her head. She watched the huge man walk away before bringing one tiny hand to wrap its fingers around the short tumbler-sized glass. The amber liquid inside of it swirled in a manner that caught and held her attention, and for a moment, she found her mind wandering to other things. Her mother and how much she missed her... the constant nagging question of what happened to her father and his family... And just what made her such a freak compared to everyone else. As if the question lay somewhere in the place, she lifted her eyes and looked around slowly, taking in one face after the other. <br><br>No answers were to be found, however, and soon enough she was slipping her drink beneath her veil and taking a sip to test the flavor. The mention of blood elves drew her thoughts back to the two men she sat with and as she sipped gingerly, getting used to the bite and the burn of the alcohol as it slid down her throat, she sighed. When Nemea's eyes turned back on her, she arched a brow and quickly knocked back what was left in the glass before setting it down once more and turning to look at them in a manner that seemed to suggest that she didn't honestly care what their answer to the statement she was about to make was. <br><br>"Do I look like some kind of fighter or magic user to you? Like I can just..." she thought about it for a moment before continuing. "Just wiggle my fingers and turn someone in to a toad? You two can go court death all you like, but like I told the big man earlier... I like all my limbs right where they are, thanks. The payout isn't exactly guaranteed, nor promising enough for me to risk life and limb. Not against blood elves." She shuddered as she finished her little speech, as if just the thought of going head-to-head with blood elves was enough to turn her stomach.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>15-08-2012, 07:14:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Corann Character Post</strong></div><br><strong>Time of day beginning post: </strong>Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong> Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with: </strong>Sol\Nemea<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no):</strong> No.<br><br>“Able swords and mighty mages!” Corann practically thundered in response to Nemea’s inquiry. “Of course! Such things are the stuff of legends, of tales told as old as time, of heroic ballads and dream sequences!” He puffed his chest out proudly, all upper-body and pectoral muscle for a moment.<br><br>In response to the clamor, one of the patrons – a sailor retreated from the storm, human and weathered – said, “Aye. Blood elves here are madder than usual. And dangerous. They’ve been cutting off the supply of oil from the trees near here, or so the merchants have been saying for some time.”<br><br>When Solfiria cut in, Corann shifted his chair to more directly face her, his countenance steady and calm and his tone matched it. “My lady, you walk alone in this world. Surely you have gifts that allow you to survive, even in the face of danger? Perhaps direct confrontation is not your cup of Gutshaker or Gogondy, but perhaps we can reach some accommodation? I’m certain you wouldn’t want to miss on the glory to be had, even if that glory is had from behind the scenes, or behind the lines, or behind the enemy’s bums if you’re one of those back-stabbity types.”&nbsp; Again, he added a sage nod of firm sagacity. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>23-08-2012, 09:18:24</strong>
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				<div align="center"><strong>GM Controlled: Briar Character Post</strong></div><br><strong>Time of day beginning post: </strong>Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> North East of Dulon Landing (note the gentle correction: Dulon Landing is as far West of the continent as possible)<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong>Off screen.<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with: </strong>Hollywillow<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no):</strong> No.<br><br>Briar looked at Hollywillow, his eyes suddenly distant. There, over the horizon, the storm grew and he seemed to sway at some unseen melody, a force beyond his ken. Extending a hand, his almost yellow skin gleaming with sudden sweat, he pointed toward the catastrophe. <br><br>“Something is very wrong,” he said, his voice shaking, ignoring Holly’s comments. “I must warn my people and offer them whatever aid I am able.” His eyes shifted to the girl, epicanthic folds somehow emphasizing the fact that his race, the Jun, were well-known for carrying mystery and magic with them. <br><br>With his words, Briar reached into a pocket and withdrew a small golden flute. He hefted it to his lips, arms locked in proper posture. Pausing, just before playing, he addressed Holly once more, “You should find shelter. I suggest the city; rumor has it that a powerful Water Elementalist lives there. She may provide succor against the oncoming holocaust.” Then, he blew the flute and a softly lilting melody arose from it. As it rose, Briar’s body became transparent, then vanished. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Niki315</strong> on <strong>23-08-2012, 12:02:39</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/c/cd/Fpic22-ava1.jpg)</div><br><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong>&nbsp; Late Morning<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong>&nbsp; noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong>&nbsp; Eastern Road to Dulon<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong>&nbsp; Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong> Indirectly: Sol, Corann, and Nemea<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no)</strong>&nbsp; No?<br><br><hr>Her sword was too long to be holding one-handed.&nbsp; It was clearly a greatsword, meant to be wielded with both hands.&nbsp; Before a fight, Rianna would extend it toward her opponent one-handed, flick her wrist, and wave the sword in a practiced pattern.&nbsp; Once she did so, she could feel herself cut-off from the flow of mana in the world.&nbsp; An invisible wave of deflection coated her as her off-hand returned to the hilt of Irrias, her gleaming white greatsword.&nbsp; A haze of electricity flowed over her body momentarily and then also vanished.&nbsp; The only giveaway was the rate at which she blinked.&nbsp; Imperceptible to an untrained eye, her body's movements sped up.&nbsp; Finally, she seemed to split into multiple beings, each with a hazy afterglow.&nbsp; The bandits which outnumbered her 5 to 1 before, now appeared to fighting an equal number of Riannas.&nbsp; <br><br>There was hesitation from the bandits.&nbsp; Each one was wondering if this fight was still worth it.&nbsp; They looked past Rianna to the cart and travelers behind her.&nbsp; The cart looked to be laden with goods.&nbsp; Rianna could tell what they were thinking about, she had to give them a chance.&nbsp; In unison all five images of her spoke, "It's not worth your lives.&nbsp; You should run now, or you will not survive."<br><br>The battle began and ended in less time than it took her to prepare spells.&nbsp; The first bandit's weapon was shattered, the next was hit by the flat of Rianna's sword and the accompanying clap of thunder stunned the one next to him.&nbsp; The other two attempted to hit the illusory duplicates but failed and in an instant, Rianna was there.&nbsp; She staked her sword into the ground, grabbed one by his leather jerkin and threw him into the other using her sword as a pivot point.&nbsp; Five voices again spoke to bandits, "You have five seconds left to run before you all die."&nbsp; They didn't need the warning.&nbsp; Rianna sheathed her sword across her back using a simple spell to fasten the scabbard, and deactivated the rest of her defense spells.&nbsp; While they ran the caravan she was escorting thanked her for her protection.&nbsp; It was no real problem to Rianna.&nbsp; She was traveling toward Dulon and the caravan was lacking protection after their guard had taken ill.&nbsp; An injury had gone septic, one must have eaten something uncooked, and another wiped himself with a poisonous plant.&nbsp; It was calamity of errors for the caravan which left them almost completely ungaurded and unless they reached town soon, one of the guards might not even survive.&nbsp; Lucky for the caravan,&nbsp; Rianna didn't charge for her services unless explicitly hired, and there was only about an hour's travel left and they would make it in time for lunch at the inn.&nbsp; <br><br>This was the first time Rianna had been so far West.&nbsp; She spent most of her days at the Academy, an establishment just North of Accord.&nbsp; She learned to fight during the desperate war against the Shadow Legion and has only now begun to understand the benefits of not fighting at full power.&nbsp; Her aggressive fighting stlye developed as a teenager in an all-out war, and that habit had yet to be broken.&nbsp; But all that was in total opposition to her natural demeanor.&nbsp; She was kind and sincere and almost too sweet to be a warrior.&nbsp; The travelers felt safe around her, as long as they didn't attempt to fight her.&nbsp; And she had gotten the caravan to town safely, without expense simply because she was already traveling this way.&nbsp; They parted ways at the crossroads allowing them to seek help for their guard, while she stepped into the inn for a drink.<br><br>The door of the inn swung open and the strange sight that was Rianna stepped in.&nbsp; She noticed the doors were large, which made her appear a bit smaller despite being 5'8".&nbsp; The sword on her back was almost as large as she was, and she had a strange compartmented bag on her hip.&nbsp; Few people would know that it was an academy bag, useful for storing more than a bag its size should, but sorting things conveniently.&nbsp; The charms that clung to her revealing red outfit jingled as she walked toward an open table, but was probably overtaken by the clamor of people eating and drinking.&nbsp; It wouldn't be hard to mistake her as a paladin by her gait and posture, but the red and gold clothing, if you could call it that, was unmistakeably related to a magic association.&nbsp; The emblems and charms specified that it was the Academy.&nbsp; <br><br>She sat down and moments later was asked what she wanted to eat by a giant man.&nbsp; She asked for a standard meal and glass of ale to start.&nbsp; While she waited she looked around the common room.&nbsp; A varied group of travelers and townspeople.&nbsp; Just what she'd expect from a port town like Dulon.&nbsp; There was an attractive bunch at a table not two spaces away from herself.&nbsp; It was hard to not stare at first, so she removed her list from a pouch in her bag. The list detailed the items she needed to help restore the Academy's dwindling inventory.&nbsp; They were low on white olives, cinder scales, crystal slivers, living coral, thunder barnacles, Byrias down, Poriad leather.&nbsp; Most of the items were found in the area, so it would be a good start to check out Dulon to see if any items were for sale, and then look to obtain the items by other means.&nbsp; Though, it would probably be a good idea to let the storm pass first.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>arkhos</strong> on <strong>24-08-2012, 17:17:26</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Nemea Character Post<br>Time of day beginning post: Noonish<br>Time of day ending post: Noonish<br>Location beginning post: Bold Bison Inn<br>Location ending post: Bold Bison Inn<br>Characters currently interacting with: Corann/Sol/Rianna, any other in area<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? No<br><hr><br>Nemea smiled as Corann turned his chair toward the third in their group and began to put the 'hard sell' to Sol. The man was charismatic, convincing, and possessed an obvious spirit that was hard to miss. When Corann set his mind to something, Nemea had no doubt that the person he spoke to would have little choice but to listen to him, even if they did not end up agreeing with him. Nemea couldn't help but see that Corann was almost his own polar opposite: where the man was talkative, boisterous, dramatic and very forward, Nemea himself was quiet, reserved, and almost shy to a fault. Something about that comforted the elf as he held back a chuckle.<br><br>Privately, Nemea hoped that Sol would confess some sort of skill or use she might have on the road. She was pretty, and very... curious. She wore a veil, but not because she was hideous, and such a practice intrigued him. She also bore strange designs on her skin, and while such a thing might not be all too uncommon, he was still curious what her own body art stood for or represented. Still, their acquaintance was so new, he did not feel overly comfortable asking her detailed personal questions just yet, and if Corann could not convince her to accompany them, then it was likely he might not even see her again.<br><br>Some people simply weren't "adventurers". For every tale Nemea had read of Talon Stringfellow or Nubar Maysette, there were thousands of tales of mundane people going about their normal lives - shopkeepers, farmers, chamber maids and the like. Not everyone was cut-out to be an adventurer, sell-sword, or mercenary. And to top it off, not everyone -wanted- to be one. <br><br>Nemea raised his mug to his lips absently listening to Corann grill Sol, his eyes drifting lazily upward to see the latest person walk into the inn. He almost choked on the mouthful of drink he had just poured into his mouth, but was able to swallow without embarrassing himself. The lightly-clothed woman that entered the inn obviously stood out, and if not for the massive sword strapped across her back, he may have mistaken her for a lady of the night.<br><br>Immediately he wondered about her, wondered where she was from, wondered about her manner of dress and the weapon on her back. Most likely, she didn't carry such a weapon if she didn't know how to use it, but that and a hundred other questions sprang to his mind about her. Add those to the hundred or so questions he had about Sol, and the hundred or so unspoken questions he had about Corann, and Nemea quickly realized that his mind was quickly getting crowded!<br><br>Nemea stared at the woman, trying to determined if she wore anything that would indicate who - or what - she was. His eyes settled on the blade for a moment, noting its design and quality. His eyes drifted back down - to find her looking over at him and his companions. Instantly embarrassed because he was staring, Nemea's face reddened slightly, and he stretched his arms out in a -very- lame attempt to appear as if he were simply yawning, and not gawking at the newcomer. He set his cup down on the table and turned his eyes towards Corann.<br><br>Whispering at a moment when he would not rudely interrupt Corann and Sol's conversation, Nemea spoke softly. "Corann... you sound interested in finding more able bodies for an expedition of sorts? Look to your left, two tables over... if her skill with that blade she carries is half as impressive as the weapon itself, she might be worth a look."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AribethAmkiir</strong> on <strong>24-08-2012, 19:47:16</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j480/Erion2451/imagesqtbnANd9GcS9_OPu2UlXIEHWAEMAihAw7O4FwIHsbaYiD7B2cxE28OhQxSp7ww.jpg)</div><div align="center"><strong>Hollywillow Character Post</strong></div><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Later (like 2 hours later if I recall how far away Holly was)<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Northeast of Dulon Landing (thought the map showed the ocean to the east of the city)<br><strong>Location ending post:</strong> Dulon Landing<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong> None<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no)</strong> No<br><br>Holly turned to regard her current companion, and auburn brows knitted instantly in concern.&nbsp; When the Jun pointed, Holly turned to look.&nbsp; Yeah, the storm was getting worse and she really didn't like the feeling it stirred in the air, not to mention the trees were all cowering, even the mightiest of oaks.&nbsp; &nbsp;It was just a storm though.&nbsp; Even if it was magical, the forest would provide her with shelter.&nbsp; Wind, rain, and lightning were as much her Mother's gift as the sun was.&nbsp; <br><br>When Holly turned to look at her brief acquaintance once more, a golden flute was in his hand.&nbsp; He mentioned something about a Water Elemental, and a holocaust and then he played his little flute and disappeared.<br><br>An exacerbated huff, came from Holly as her hands moved to her hips in indignation.&nbsp; <strong>"How rude!"</strong><br><br>Well so much for killing Blood Elves and freeing the forest of their twisted grip.&nbsp; She considered turning back and asking Castoff for advice, but she'd told him she would help, and she still intended to do just that... even if it meant walking into the stinky, dirty, village.&nbsp; She'd just have to bathe afterwards, she guessed.<br><br>With a hesitant sigh, Holly once more headed in the direction of Dulon Landing.<br><br>Time passed as it always did, one step after another, but she eventually found herself outside the village, hidden amongst the trees and doing her best to summon the courage and fortitude to continue the final short distance into the village.&nbsp; The two Elm trees, small and young, were providing her with words of encouragement and seemingly expert advise on attire in order for her to blend in.&nbsp; Of course, her cloak of moss didn't really cover as much as a normal cloak would and she hadn't done much to alter her normal drapings.<br><br>She spun around once more before looking at the taller of the two trees, <strong>"Are you sure this looks close enough?&nbsp; Maybe I should add another layer, they always look like they're hiding in their clothing.&nbsp; I don't really want to be stared at though.&nbsp; I mean, I know I will.&nbsp; Dryads don't enter a village, but maybe this time they won't notice?"</strong><br><br>What the trees said didn't really comfort Holly.&nbsp; They were trees, they didn't know what it meant to hide.&nbsp; All they could do was blend in.<br><br><strong>"Okay, so where's the Druid's home?&nbsp; And where's the Water elemental?&nbsp; Are you certain?&nbsp; They all look the same to me."</strong>&nbsp; <br><br><em>Four walls, a rough, and as unnatural as can be,</em> Holly thought.<br><br>With a deep breath, Holly took a step toward the village, <strong>"oh well.&nbsp; Here goes nothing.&nbsp; Just like, be ready to throw up a root or something in case I've got to run away,"</strong> she shot over her shoulder to the friendly Elms.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>27-08-2012, 03:20:51</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Situation Update</strong><br><br>I'd like to welcome Rianna to the game, even as I'm forced to write Briar out due to lack of presence. We've got an opening for one more player of either gender (leaning toward a male). Ideally, the new player will be a strong spell-caster with some healing ability, so the group maintains diversity. It is my hope that everyone continues to enjoy themselves and that we're able to move the story along at a somewhat faster clip. Keep in mind that players can post without my interaction freely (provided Corann doesn't need to respond, or no GM intervention is required). <br><br>As far as the table-top game that ties into this one: they are a little over a week ahead of this game, but we haven’t had a full session for a while, so this group has time/opportunity to "catch up" a bit. As far as the weather, it remains the same as my previous situation update mentioning it. We’ll see what tomorrow brings. <br><strong><br>Reminder: </strong>Please remember that as we progress our initial character descriptions continue to fall behind; for example, the word document of only my posts is currently at 21 pages. Assuming all of you are fairly close, that’s nearly 80 pages of story we’ve already written. I’d ask that everyone (including myself) keep in mind that new characters haven’t seen ours before, so adding new and vibrant descriptions regularly (but not redundantly) is important. <br><br><div align="center"><strong>Solifria </strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Responses had in roleplay.</div></div><div align="center"><strong>Nemea</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Responses had in roleplay.</div></div><div align="center"><strong>Hollywillow</strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">After Briar’s abrupt disappearance, you saw Castoff begin to guide the abused horses north. When you approach Dulon Landing, you note very few trees at all (as depicted in the map); in fact, it’s almost entirely scrubland and the beginnings of rather marshy beach. I’m fine with you finding a few tiny trees to hide behind, but they’d be so small that doing so would be comical. No need to edit your post; just consider this an FYI. <br><br>Once you arrive in the town, you see much of what I've previously described. You'll note that the town appears nearly empty at this time, as though most people are desperately avoiding the inclement storm. As you move into the town, and closer to the source of the weather, your innate magic begins whispering to you. The pull of distant clouds feels supernaturally charged and dangerous. Without a shadow of a doubt, you know what is to come is not natural and may very well destroy everything in its wake. </div></div><div align="center"><strong>Briar </strong></div>Written out due to lack of presence on E. This will be the final update including his character unless he returns. <br><div align="center"><strong>Rianna </strong></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body"> Rianna, per my note to you, the Academy you were trained in was in a town called Melk (see the map for details on location). Racially diverse, Melk is inhabited by lots of Chosen and the Chosen run both the adventurer’s guild and the military training facilities in the location. As the most militant (and supernatural) of the races known to exist on Ora, the Chosen were ideally suited to help you hone your unique mixture of powers, allowing you to become what you are despite the fact that your particular profession is far from common. As a consequence of receiving the training, however, your character either owes or owed a debt to the Chosen; this debt can be of your choosing – gold, services, whatever. You may include this in your background or add it in to your character’s agenda as you see fit. If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know. <br><br>When you enter the tavern and see the inhabitants, you’ll immediately notice that Corann is a Chosen. He doesn’t carry himself like most of the Chosen you spent time with, however. Most Chosen are extremely serious and bound to conflict of all sorts. In out of character terms, you could think of the personality of most Chosen as analogous to a fantasy version of the Spartans. </div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>27-08-2012, 03:41:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Corann Character Post</strong></div><br><strong>Time of day beginning post: </strong>Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong> Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with: </strong>Sol\Nemea\Rianna<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no):</strong> No.<br><br>Corann’s tapered ears twitched within the nest of his silken off-white hair at the sound of the newcomer walking into the Bison Inn. He could sense something there, in the presence, something off – it felt familiar, like a song he knew sung in an entirely different cord. It took a surprising amount of effort not to turn and look and instead face both Nemea and Sol with his cocksure smile still plastered into place. A quick glance would show that the smile was no longer as effortless as it was before. <br><br>At Nemea’s gesturing, Corann turned slowly to take the woman in. The over-sized Chosen didn’t bother hiding that he was looking; in his culture, sex was a subject approached without shyness and appreciation was given for prowess of all sorts frankly. Of course, among his people, non-Chosen were also considered non-people, so seeing someone of Rianna’s figure wearing a sword and smelling of power that somehow reminded him of his own kind, was a bit of a shock to the youth. <br><br>“Please excuse me for one second,” Corann said, his voice still of the merriment and innocence that had dominated it until now. He stood, the motion smooth and no longer ringing with whatever bells he’d had attached to his posterior. Towering over the table, he exchanged&nbsp; a brief look with Namea that said something along the lines of ‘Watch my back. This isn’t a social call.’ He glanced over at Sol too, but the jerk of his eyes was barely that. Sol’s recalcitrance to embrace the life that Corann was born into was an oddity to him and the woman’s posture and demeanor were fascinating; on the other hand, he knew what he’d been born to do.<br><br>Presenting a broad back and narrow waist to the table he was talking away from, Corann approached Rianna’s table. As bold as a knock on a door, he pressed his hands flat on the table she sat at, subtly emphasizing both his size and nature as a Chosen; those hands were oversized, perfect to wield the sword that sat on his back. In addition to the half-dozen or so visible weapons strapped elsewhere on his body. His canted, cat-slit eyes, silver and blue irises gleaming, clashed horribly with his too-bright green shirt, sun-yellow pants and bright purple waistband. The metal of his chain armor, resting tightly over the shirt and numerous weapons, however, contrasted the tragically comical colors of the rest of his clothes starkly, somehow emphasizing the disconnect between the seven-foot-tall warrior. <br><br>“You aren't of my kind, yet I detect their touch on you. Forbidden knowledge, perhaps.” Corann said, his tones starkly serious and his face, normally unlined by concerns or pessimism, had folded into a deep frown. <br><br><strong>GM Note: </strong> Being trained in Melk, Rianna would know that the vast majority of the Chosen live in Durus, far to the south of Accord. It’s possible that Corann hasn’t heard of outsiders being trained in Melk. It is also possible that he simply hasn’t considered the fact that she has, or that he’s just being an ass. Something in his face suggests that it isn’t his nature to be needlessly mean, though. <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bloodied Porcelain</strong> on <strong>27-08-2012, 22:47:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab235/bloodiedporcelain/elcharacterpics/childedit1.jpg)</div><em>Solfiria Character Post</em><br><strong>Time of day beginning post</strong>: Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post</strong>: Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post</strong>: Inside the Bold Bison<br><strong>Location ending post</strong>: Outside the Bold Bison<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with</strong>: Corann, Nemea, Rianna<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?</strong> No<br><hr><br>Sol listened to Corann try (not for the first time) to convince her that she had some sort of a place in adventuring. When he had the audacity to suggest that the fact that she lived and traveled on her own meant that she must have some sort of skill to keep herself safe, she immediately looked away to hide the urge to roll her eyes. One finger trailed the rim of her cup, nails occasionally stopping to tap at it as she listened to him. Glory... he spoke of it like it was really that easy... The promise of glory would override every other need and instinct one had in their life. Solfiria's priority list was simple, and glory and riches didn't even make the list. Food, sleep, imprinting, survival... those were what got her by, and this group seemed headed for death and dismemberment and all the "glory" that seemed to go with them. <br><br>She didn't answer his pleas that she at least give them some insight in what she could do for them, and instead sat perfectly still... until the door to the inn opened again. She didn't have to turn to feel the magic on the person entering. She didn't have to turn to know it was female. Her feather-light brows drew together in a frown for a moment as goosebumps wrote their braille message up and down her spine and along her arms beneath her robes. The message was simple... get out, get out now. Get back under the open sky and it's roiling clouds. Feel her heart beat echo the thunder over head... the lightning pulse it's way through her muscles, writing a sizzling, snapping, cracking message of freedom inside of her. <br><br>Corann's sudden movement to stand was abrupt enough to make Sol's mismatched eyes snap up to look up at him, and something in her gaze seemed... different. Her head canted slightly, watching him as he moved to a scantily clad woman sitting at a nearby table. His stance had changed, his face was serious, but there was something more to it... Watching with a placid face from behind her veil, she took in his movements as he went to the woman's table. Fingers twitching slightly, she felt the tension crawl through her and her nails scratched at the cup more rapidly. All at once, the tension seemed to leave her and the twitching of her hand stopped. In one fluid movement, she produced a few coins to pay for her drink, leaving them beside the cup and ignoring any protests from Nemea that he would pay, she stood and turned, making her way from the Inn and the crowd gathered there in a flutter of robes like the movement of the shifting, billowing clouds gathering above the town. <br><br>Outside, an ominous rumble of thunder over head threatened to spill gallons upon gallons of water down on the town and the tiny robe-swathed woman sighed, lifting her face to the sky as if in anticipation of the first cold drops kissing her skin. Her breathing came easier now... the tension seemed to sink from her muscles even as the promise of the incoming storm rumbled through her core. A soft sigh of near pleasure left her lips as her eyes closed. Why wouldn't it rain? Why did it have to keep threatening? Mismatched hues were revealed once more as lids slid upward and revealed them and she bit her lip. This felt good... a real storm would feel better. She could see herself laying naked on the grass in the middle of a field with the rain pelting down on her, caressing her curves with white-hot, stinging droplets that made her arch and writhe. She could imagine the build up of tension and overwhelming sensations within her... the way it built and built and grew until it exploded through her, like the torrential downpour building itself above her head. <br><br>Still... for all her wishing, the rain wouldn't come. Shifting her pack on her back, she glanced around her at the town and frowned, unsure where to go. Moving to find a place to sit along side the Inn but out of the way of those traveling the town's streets, she lowered herself to settle there, drawing slow, deep breaths and closing her eyes as one hand lifted to rub at the sun carved in to the skin between her brows. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Niki315</strong> on <strong>28-08-2012, 05:12:39</strong>
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				<br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/c/cd/Fpic22-ava1.jpg) (http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/1/10/Fpic22.jpg)</div><strong>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Rianna Character Post</strong><br><br><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong>&nbsp; noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong>&nbsp; still noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong>&nbsp; Common room in the Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong>&nbsp; Common room in the Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong> Corann, Nemea<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no)</strong>&nbsp; No<br><br><hr><br>While looking over her list, a lock of long black hair slid over her shoulder and brushed the scroll aside.&nbsp; Instinctively, her magic moved her hair back into place with a gentle wind while her hand grabbed at the scroll.&nbsp; Right as her fingers reclaimed her list, large hands pressed onto the table creating a startling presence as well as an audible indication that he needed attention.<br><br>Rianna's eyes slowly looked over the man, or rather, the Chosen that stood before her.&nbsp; She had to crane her neck slightly as he was standing too tall for her to take him in with just her eyes.&nbsp; He was... beautiful if she had to choose a word, despite the grim look on his face.&nbsp; The long stare allowed the swordmage to take in much of his features, one of which called to her attention.&nbsp; Rianna only carried one sword, but this man had several attached to his back in various manners, and he wore his chain armor while lounging in then inn.&nbsp; It was no hard sell to say he was more than just an average warrior.&nbsp; <br><br>As she turned to face him, her figure came into full view as well.&nbsp; Her satin cloak covered most of her body from behind, but there was little that covered her body from the front.&nbsp; Red satin cups lined in a gold frame held her enticing breasts in place.&nbsp; Around her hips is a garment of two golden hooks shaped like antlers that connect with a concealed hook.&nbsp; The golden hooks frame another satin covering going from the curve of her lower abdomen to her posterior. Upon close inspection all the red material on her body shares a vine and flower design with a diamond-like central point. <br><br>The clothing fits her form so perfectly that there are no clasps or noticeable places for adjustment, just fine decorative chains of gold that descend from the frame like drops of molten metal.&nbsp; These garments leave the majority of her flesh bare save for a few extra pieces of equipment. Shoulder guards made from a painted metal that look untarnished, gold armlets with an intricate design, the clasp of her cape which displayed the emblem of the Academy, a hard leather glove also with the same gold trim and designs, and finally a headband with jeweled adornments holding her hair mostly out of her eyes.&nbsp; Over her shoulder was a strap to a leather bag that rested at her hip, sitting on the chair with her.&nbsp; It was one of the few things about her that did not appear very impressive.<br><br>She softly cleared her throat and placed her list back in her bag in response to his gruff introduction.&nbsp; When she turned back to look at him, the rise and fall of her breasts indicated she was taking a long deep breath.&nbsp; Perhaps steadying herself, or preparing for the difficult task before her.&nbsp; She raised her fist to the clasp of her cape with a lowering of the head, which would have to pass for her salute since she was sitting down. Her blue eyes looked upward to his, meeting his strange cat-like&nbsp; ones.&nbsp; "Good afternoon, goodman" she paused to consider the honorific, but she didn't know if this particular chosen had any sort of rank, so she left it at the simplest she could think of that still signified him as a man and not a boy.&nbsp; If he were a Lord of some type, he might be offended, but he was not exactly dressed in the finest robes.&nbsp; "I am Rianna Steelshade of the Academy in Melk.&nbsp; It would not be unusual to sense the touch of the Chosen as I have been trained by them rigorously for the last year.&nbsp; I have learned of your people only what they were willing to teach me, nothing more.&nbsp; It is safe to say I know nothing of any forbidden knowledge."&nbsp; When she finished she let out a short sigh.&nbsp; She wasn't normally one to consider her words so carefully, but she had no desire to get into a fight with a Chosen, in a tavern, in a town she was unfamilar with, right before a storm.&nbsp; Normally if she were harrassed by an average patron she would simply brush them off, but a Chosen could make a real problem.&nbsp; Especially if he seriously believed she had obtained some sort of forbidden knowledge.<br><br>The young woman quietly motioned for him to sit down so they could make an attempt at conversation.&nbsp; Whether he continued to stand or accepted her offer she asked, "So what brings you out to Dulon Landing and more so, my little table?"
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>arkhos</strong> on <strong>29-08-2012, 01:59:42</strong>
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				Nemea Character Post<br>Time of day beginning post: Noonish<br>Time of day ending post: Noonish<br>Location beginning post: Bold Bison Inn<br>Location ending post: Outside Bold Bison Inn<br>Characters currently interacting with: Corann/Sol/Rianna, any other in area<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? No<br><hr><br>Nemea felt good for the moment. There seemed to be the promise of some sort of... group or party forming, just like he had read about in the tales he loved. Corann, Sol, and possibly this other woman who had just entered? And perhaps others they might entice and attract on their way? Surely with Corann 'selling' their little group's abilities and plans, they could attract a merry band of heroes with whom they could set forth and explore the world. Glory wasn't so much on Nemea's mind as were the tangible rewards: coin, riches, and of course, women. Perhaps a farmer's daughter or three? He had read that they were -particularly- sweet, though he hadn't seen a single one yet that matched the stories since he had left his home.<br><br>After pointing out the woman to Corann, Nemea watched the man's face grow serious, and without further word, Corann rose and stomped off toward the lady. Nemea, a little wide-eyed, turned to face Sol. "Well, either she impressed him by appearance alone, or he's longing for company of the carnal type, I suppose," he said with a soft snort. "He sure seemed rather... focused."<br><br>When Nemea turned his gaze again to Sol, though, he noted just in time that the woman was also rising to her feet, and dropped coin on the table to cover her drink. "My lady, I've already paid for-..." was all he was able to say before Sol, without a word, also moved off, heading toward the door in a direct fashion.<br><br>Now sitting completely alone, Nemea glanced around the room, shrugging lightly, and not seeing anyone looking, he gently lifted his arms and took a quick sniff of his odor near either armpit. No, he did not smell appalling, so the sudden departure of his two new acquaintances must have been due to some other reason.<br><br>He pondered for a moment what it all could mean. Based on his own limited life-experiences, he quickly came to two conclusions: First, Corann was so overcome with lust for the new arrival, the man had risen and approached her quite directly. Nemea would have agreed that the newcomer was indeed attractive, but he, himself, would have opted for a more... relaxed, indirect approach. But considering what little he knew of Corann, Nemea assumed that the man was likely very direct in all things - including his love-life. Glancing over at the table, the newcomer was not physically attacking Corann yet, so perhaps things were working to the big man's advantage so far.<br><br>The second thing he realized, after watching Sol depart so abruptly, was that Sol herself must have been attached to Corann, and seeing the man approach the other woman, Sol lost her cool and departed so she would not have to look at the man at work. Nemea immediately felt badly for the woman, and wondered if Corann was at all aware that Sol might have already developed feelings for him. Afterall, from all the books on the subject that he had read, women were incredibly emotional and quick to be frustrated and tearful. And from what he had also read, the best way to help Sol right now would be to offer an ear and a shoulder.<br><br>Their drinks taken care of, Corann busy with the newcomer, Nemea rose quickly and made to go after Sol. He stepped outside, looking both ways down the street just in time to see Sol slip around the side of the inn. She was likely embarrassed by what had happened. Nemea, thinking he would play the big-brother role (even though he didn't have any siblings and didn't know -how-), strode purposely after her. Within moments he rounded the edge and saw where she rested, and he approached her slowly.<br><br>"Hey, Solfiria," he said, slowly approaching her. "Everything ok?" he asked, as he, too, glanced up at the sky, pregnant with pent-up magic and the promise of a torrential downpour. The scent of magic on the winds made the small hairs on the back of his neck stand on end, but there was little he could do about that now. He needed to see to Solifiria, then perhaps get her back indoors before the storm erupted. <br><br>"I have an idea what you're feeling," he began gently, when in reality - he didn't. "And you know - it's ok. Everything will be fine. YOU will be fine. Corann might just be going through a phase, you know. And, the whole 'glory-seeking' thing... I am not overly keen on that, myself," he said. "But if I am to travel the world, looking for work and exploration and learning, I'd rather do it in the company of some able-bodied people who I might grow to trust. Or do you prefer to walk through life alone?"<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bloodied Porcelain</strong> on <strong>30-08-2012, 04:04:30</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab235/bloodiedporcelain/elcharacterpics/childedit1.jpg)</div><em>Solfiria Character Post</em><br><strong>Time of day beginning post</strong>: Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post</strong>: Noonish<br><strong>Location beginning post</strong>: Outside the Bold Bison<br><strong>Location ending post</strong>: Outside the Bold Bison<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with</strong>: Nemea<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?</strong> No<br><hr><br>Sol was sitting outside the Inn, focusing herself and concentrating on the roiling crowds above and the feel of the electricity in the air. Other people seemed bothered by it all, but she was honestly more at ease here in the open with the clouds above and the ground below than she was inside shoulder-to-shoulder with other folks. Folks who could, at any moment, turn and rip the veils from her face, expose her markings, her eyes, her ears... her hair... everything that made her an outcast. And then she'd be forced out of town before she'd even really gotten to know the place and to deal with the ridicule and torment again... Sol wasn't sure she could go through that again. <br><br>Sighing softly, her eyes glittering purple and blue hues looked at the gray above her before closing. It was at that moment that footsteps announced someone's approach. Out of habit, her hands, hidden by the long sleeves of her robes, twitched almost in preparation for being accosted. She could see every imprint etching its way across her face, her hands, her body... she knew where each one was... what each one did... intimately familiar with every "gift" she bore, she ran through a dozen scenarios in her head on how to use one to keep someone from removing her veils. <br><br>When instead of being grabbed or shouted at, a gentle male voice sounded, her eyes fluttered open slightly and she looked up at Nemea in silence as he babbled at her something about Corann and a phase. The look that he got in response to the entire thing earned him a slow blink, followed by a slight tilt of her head to the side. "What... are you talking about?" she asked in a quiet, confused tone. "Why should I care if Corann is going through a phase? Let him get himself killed, it's no skin off my back." When he went on to talking about going through life alone, she felt all the more confused. Alone was all she knew... people were cruel and harsh and judgmental and tended to disappear or push you away. <br><br>In her entire life, she'd spent real time with only two people... one was dead, the other had forced her to leave, throwing her out on her own. Her father hadn't counted, he'd barely spoken to each other... Shaking her head some, she let out a soft half sigh, half grunt and frowned at him. "People are trouble. And baggage." Shifting in her seat, she opened her pack and seemed to rummage through it, as if looking for something. Still elbows-deep in it, she spoke again without looking up. "And why do you care? I've already told you I have nothing to offer a group like yours on the road. I do not fight. I have no magic." 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>arkhos</strong> on <strong>30-08-2012, 20:28:04</strong>
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				Nemea Character Post<br>Time of day beginning post: Noonish<br>Time of day ending post: Noonish<br>Location beginning post: Outside the Bold Bison Inn<br>Location ending post: Outside the Bold Bison Inn<br>Characters currently interacting with: Sol<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? No<br><hr><br><br><div class="floatright">(http://i1240.photobucket.com/albums/gg481/indytims/Nemea1.jpg)</div><br>Nemea had heard her type of response before, and in fact had used her type of response himself many times: Denial. He recognized it in her voice, and usually such a tone was used when the person was being defensive - or simply did not wish to speak about their true feelings. All the books he had read on the subject couldn't be wrong.<br><br>"Corann isn't a bad person, I don't think. He seemed to genuinely care for your well-being. I do not think he would carelessly get anyone hurt, the least of which being himself. He doesn't seem like the suicidal type to me, though... But his choice of clothing, or at least color-selection, could use some help, I think. There <em>are</em> some bad areas of some cities where dressing like that <em>would</em> be considered... suicidal," he smiled at her.<br><br>At her later comments, though, his brow furrowed. "People aren't -always- trouble, Solfiria. Some are, some aren't. But if you assume everyone is, then you miss out on the fun and joy provided by the ones who aren't. Don't you enjoy company? The presence of others? Why are you here in Dulon's Landing if not for that? I wager you could find everything you'd need to survive outside of town. I've read of countless hermits who make their way in the wilds without ever seeing another person. Some say they start to turn green like the flora around them, and that's why their bodies are never found - they eventually turn into trees or other flora or fauna."<br><br>Her last words made him bite his lower lip for a moment. He glanced around to make sure they weren't being watched before he spoke again, more gentle this time. "I think we both know that's not true - that you have nothing to offer, that you have no magic," he said. "I suppose - like me - you're simply trying not to draw attention to yourself. Perhaps you're hiding. Perhaps you're running from someone - or something. And perhaps it's none of my business," he shrugged. "But I get the feeling I am in a similar boat as you are, and I sure wouldn't mind having at least one friend, cause I don't know a soul within a thousand leagues."<br><br>Nemea watched her dig through her pack, wondering if she was even listening. He figured he'd give it a shot, try to befriend the reclusive woman before she simply vanished. But, he knew he couldn't force the issue. She'd leave, or she'd stay, but in the end if would be her choice. He didn't get too close to where she sat, not wanting to frighten her of course, though he did look up at the sky a few times. It was magnificent, and his curiosity to see what would happen only continued to grow as the day wore on and the skies became more angry.<br><br>"But... if you're really wanting solitude, I get that. Just say the word and I'll leave ya be."<br><br><br><br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>30-08-2012, 21:28:41</strong>
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				<br><div class="floatleft">(http://i945.photobucket.com/albums/ad295/Dariusfallenstar/CorannSmall.jpg)</div><br><div align="center"><strong>Corann Character Post</strong></div><br><strong>Time of day beginning post: </strong>Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> An hour or so after noon; time has been passing<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong> Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with: </strong> Rianna<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no):</strong> No.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“I’ll have you know that I am Devoted, not goodman.” Corann managed to make the ‘man’ part of goodman sound like a curse. “I am neither Untested nor Banished from my people and to insinuate,” he paused as he took in the rest of what the woman said, sputtering off into some nonsense guttural syllables of his native language. Akin to Dwarven, the Chosen tongue was clipped, harsh-sounding, and most adept at describing battlefield actions. Chosen love sonnets were notorious for describing acts of the greatest romantic intimacy in terms of how a suitor “flanked” an opponent and managed to force them to “release their volley in tandem with a well-timed charge.” Thankfully, there were relatively few known Chosen clans that had any members who aspired to such thrilling works.<br><br>“Melk, you say?” Corann didn’t sit, but something in the hard planes of his face gave way, revealing an uncertain mixture of trepidation and curiosity. “Can you tell me the name or type of Chosen who you trained with or under? Probably one of the Leadership Septs; there are quite a few stationed there, or so I was told.” He sniffed a bit aloofly. “It’s still quite debated among some of my people, training outsiders at all, you know.”<br><br>The fox ears nesting in Corann’s hair twitched a bit at the sound of Sol leaving and the Chosen glanced after her, feeling uncertain. He hadn’t known Sol for long, but he’d found her quite vulnerable and easily frightened. It was his nature, the nature of those who held honor, to defend the weak against evil predators. Part of him felt certain that she could be of some use, could add something to their efforts to form a functional party and wage great wars of adventure against the neigh-invulnerable evils of the world. She had successfully traveled alone, as he’d pointed out earlier. On the other hand, he knew that truly fearful people often needed protecting and not prodding. Well, he’d heard that. Mainly from his mother, who was attempting to soften the influence of his father.&nbsp; She’d told him as much. That his father was a fool, that is. His mother had pointed out that some people may have potential and still need protecting; she’d used blacksmiths as such an example. Among the outside races, blacksmiths often forged weapons without wielding them themselves. Perhaps Sol was such and his efforts were misplaced. <br><br>Then Nemea, his new ally, went after Sol and Corann felt the tension in his heart relax. Nemea seemed to have a solid understanding of women, a grace and sweetness about him that lent itself to making everyone like him. Corann, to be fair, aspired to such lofty heights. His mother had been a people person. But, in his heart of hearts, Corann knew that he was more like his father: short tempered, impulsive, emotional, and more than a little blood thirsty. <br><br>No doubt Nemea would be able to make the right call. <br><br>Turning his attention back to the scantily clad woman before him, Corann asked, “It would be more appropriate for you to join me, my lady. I am Corann and am working diligently to form an adventuring party.” He gestured with one big hand back at the table he’d abandoned with his drink still atop it, “And that empty table is where I and my companions have gathered to discuss glorious things. Should one of return, it would not be very fair to them for us to have shifted the gathering ten whole feet. It could be confusing.” He paused, considering, then added, “Unless you’re okay with me bringing all their things over here? That might make it simple.” He emphasized his offers with a huge, youthful smile that immediately made him seem more child than great warrior. <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Niki315</strong> on <strong>31-08-2012, 07:05:32</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/c/cd/Fpic22-ava1.jpg) (http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/1/10/Fpic22.jpg)</div><strong>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Rianna Character Post</strong><br><br><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong>&nbsp; Noon<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong>&nbsp; Noon<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong>&nbsp; Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong> Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong>&nbsp; Corann<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no)</strong> No<br><br><hr>Rianna's address had failed to please the Chosen, but she was certain if she had called him young man or boy, he might have attempted to lodge one of the many weapons he had in her.&nbsp; "Yes a Devoted.&nbsp; I shall remember that."&nbsp; He trailed off into the Chosen tongue, which Rianna still hadn't picked up on much of.&nbsp; She had learned a few languages in her youth, training with the many different types of people that joined the Academy.&nbsp; Her time with the Chosen was rather short, and that time was spent training her physical and magical abilities almost exclusively.&nbsp; <br><br>The swordmage nodded her head at Corann's inquiry.&nbsp; "Yes, the Academy in Melk.&nbsp; It wasn't always in Melk, but it seems to have taken a permanent place there now.&nbsp; My teachers were Akaris and Bellian.&nbsp; They reserve their time for the most gifted of students in the Academy.&nbsp; I'm still unfamilar with the hiararchy of the Chosen, so I'm not sure if I can tell you what 'type' they were.&nbsp; They felt it unnecessary to explain those things and simply trained my skills with my sword and magic."&nbsp; Rianna wasn't afraid of her past.&nbsp; She did feel a little annoyed that she was being interrogated by a young Chosen when she had done nothing wrong.&nbsp; She understood that for a while, there were very few Chosen left, but now their numbers were returning.&nbsp; It seemed almost overbearing to be so concerned about who people of their race consorted with, unless of course the race was something like the Shadow Legion or something.&nbsp; But, it was not her culture, and not her people.&nbsp; She was a magician of the Academy, and a human.&nbsp; There was little in the world that she would actually get worked up over, despite there being so many things she found interest in.<br><br>Their conversation paused as Corann viewed the two others from his table walk out.&nbsp; He appeared concerned, and his strange features showed a sense of protectiveness.&nbsp; He was still young, so it was unlikely he was a father, and more likely that he felt like the needed to protect everyone.&nbsp; Or at least anyone in his sight.&nbsp; It seemed possible that the people around him might need protection from him.&nbsp; In approximately thirty seconds, Rianna could tell that he was brash and quick to take action.&nbsp; She had only been in the inn for a minute before he had approached her, and essentially accosted her.&nbsp; Her first impression of him would need to be tested, but she was sure he didn't hide his true nature.<br><br>His demeanor seemed to change when it came time to sit.&nbsp; He offered her a place at his, now empty table rather than sitting at hers.&nbsp; He grinned with a child-like energy, and Rianna felt it difficult to say no.&nbsp; "Well, if you believe your companions will be back momentarily, I will join you at your table."&nbsp; Rianna didn't need to gather many things.&nbsp; Her bag was already at her hip, and her drink was in her hand.&nbsp; "I'll have you know, that I'm not inclined to bear any more scrutiny.&nbsp; I'm just traveling to fulfill a few favors to the Academy. If you need to question me further, you can speak to the Academy.&nbsp; For the time being I would certainly be able to lend my aid if you have the need for a swordmage.&nbsp; I would much like to come across some magical items to study, and maybe bring to the Academy for research."&nbsp; She waved to Boris to show she was moving to another table.&nbsp; She gracefully followed the large Chosen to the other table where she sat in the unclaimed seat.&nbsp; <br><br>While sitting she didn't appear to take up much space.&nbsp; Her body was thin and lithe, defined, but not overtly muscular.&nbsp; Despite her small frame she had a presence that seemed untouchable.&nbsp; One would definitely not want to make an enemy of her.&nbsp; "So, Corann, this adventuring party you are forming.&nbsp; Are you forming one in response to a specific short-term need or mission, or is this something that will be a long term endeavor?"
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>31-08-2012, 10:46:29</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Corann Character Post</strong></div><br><strong>Time of day beginning post: </strong>An hour or so after noon; time has been passing<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> An hour or so after noon.<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong> Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with: </strong> Rianna<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no):</strong> No.<br><br>Corann amiably followed the fit young woman back to their original table and took a seat across from hers, one that put his broad back to the wall. At her question, he blanched a bit, flushing with a milieu of emotions too complex and swift-moving to follow easily. <br><br>Finally, after perhaps two or three minutes of silent contemplation, Corann replied, “I won’t push further. I just wondered if, while in Melk, you’d met someone I know. Anyway, that doesn’t matter. As for your question, I don’t know. I came out looking for someone and got caught up in a series of unfortunate events.” He shrugged those muscular-yet-lithe shoulders of his, shifting a good fifty pounds of weapons in the motion. “I lost my Needle,” he pronounced the word oddly, with too much emphasis, “and all my Threads, in addition to the coin I brought with me for the journey. My short-term goal is coin and a good bow. After that?” Another shrug. “Finding whom I seek may take time, and wherever there is glory, there’s a good chance that he’ll be found. In that sense, I seek long term companions, ones staunch and stalwart and fierce!” <br><br>He probably didn’t realize that he practically shouted the last three words. The sailors occupying the other half of the tavern called out in his direction and broke into a ribald drinking song, something about an adventurer being tossed to the fishes and coming back with an anchor covered in kraken gold, or somesuch. <br><br>“What about yourself, Rianna?” he asked, “Do you have any goals other than magical items for the Academy?”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bloodied Porcelain</strong> on <strong>01-09-2012, 01:32:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab235/bloodiedporcelain/elcharacterpics/childedit1.jpg)</div><em>Solfiria Character Post</em><br><strong>Time of day beginning post</strong>: 1 pm-ish<br><strong>Time of day ending post</strong>: 1 pm-ish<br><strong>Location beginning post</strong>: Outside the Bold Bison<br><strong>Location ending post</strong>: Outside the Bold Bison<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with</strong>: Nemea<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?</strong> No<br><hr><br>When Nemea continued on about Corann, Sol had the distinct urge to throw something at him and tell him to shut up. She didn't give two coppers about whether or not the muscle-bound idiot lived or died... she'd just met him all of an hour or so prior, and had learned enough in that time to figure that he was the type there was no point in worrying over... not that she made it a habit to worry about anyone, as a rule. Solfiria looked after Solfiria and everyone else was on their own... that was the way the world worked. The way it had always been and always would be. <br><br>She had paused in her rummaging through her pack and was about to ask him if he had a point he was going to get to any time soon when he suddenly changed topics and told her that people weren't always trouble. Still hunched forward slightly with her arm buried in her pack, she lifted those mismatched eyes slowly to look at him and seemed to consider for a long moment before speaking. "People," she began, chosing her words carefully. "Are careless, cruel, smug, self righteous, ignorant bastards who most times aren't worth the air they breathe. Unfortunately for me, they're also on rare occasion, useful. I come in to town to get supplies. People sometimes have things worth buying that can help me on my travels. Food that I don't have to hunt for, medicines, tonics... new boots." She lifted a pair of boots, the ones she'd bought at Seaside Sal's not long prior. <br><br>"Perhaps one day I'll be like you suggest... a..." she paused for a moment, searching her memory for the word. Years of limited contact with people had left her with a somewhat stunted vocabulary and though she'd learned quickly during her travels, she still often found herself pausing to search for a particular word or term. "Hermit. Yes, perhaps one day I will become a hermit. But not yet." Her eyes lifted heavenward, staring up at the roiling clouds overhead. "Not... yet." <br><br>Brows drawing together in a frown, she sighed. The storms had pulled her here... she'd followed their call for ages... and now they were just paused, waiting over the town of Dulon's Landing. But why? She couldn't be sure, and it frustrated her. Towns made her nervous... people made her antsy... she wanted out and she wanted out as soon as possible, but here she was... talking to a white haired man who had it in his head that she actually cared about another man who wanted to run himself and all those with him right in to the waiting arms of death itself. All because of those damned clouds. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>arkhos</strong> on <strong>01-09-2012, 10:52:24</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Nemea Character Post<br>Time of day beginning post: 1 pm-ish<br>Time of day ending post: 1 pm-ish<br>Location beginning post: Outside the Bold Bison<br>Location ending post: Outside the Bold Bison<br>Characters currently interacting with: Sol<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? No<br><hr><div class="floatright">(http://i1240.photobucket.com/albums/gg481/indytims/Nemea1.jpg)</div>Nemea listened to her response, and her negativity was very surprising to him. Could it be that she hid her features because she disliked people in general so much, she preferred that they not gaze upon her? He wasn't sure, but the way she responded told him that there was at least one story - likely more than one - to explain her disdain of other people in general.<br><br>"I can be useful," he said with a shrug. "I can deal with people for you, in your stead. If you need something done, or supplies or something like you just named - I could fetch them for you to save you the hassle of dealing with folk you might not wish to," he offered.<br><br>He noted her looking upward, not for the first time, staring up at the clouds. She could sense it too, which made him wonder if she had some sort of magic affinity. Perhaps she did, perhaps she didn't. She seemed dead-set on convincing anyone who looked that she was not a magician or anyone with any real skill in anything. He was curious what else she looked like beneath her garb, but she seemed so content to keep her features hidden, and he wouldn't dare even think of denying her that.<br><br>As they both looked up at the odd storm brewing above them, Nemea softly cleared his throat, and began to sing. It was a gentle tune, without much change in pitch, short and actually well-sung. It was obvious that Nemea had some skill for carrying a tune.<br><br><em>The clouds prepare for battle, in the dark and gloomy silence.<br>Bruised and sullen storm-clouds, have the light of day obscured;<br>Looming low and ominous, in a twilight premature.<br>Thunder-heads are rumbling in a distant overture...</em><br><br>His voice faded gently at the end, his eyes still cast skyward. <br><br>"It looks like it's going to be one heck of a storm, when it bursts, as if the sky and earth were two lovers long parted, finally reunited. I've never seen the likes of it before. Perhaps we should head inside, just to be safe when it hits, Sol?"<br><br><br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Niki315</strong> on <strong>01-09-2012, 17:03:34</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/c/cd/Fpic22-ava1.jpg) (http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/1/10/Fpic22.jpg)</div><strong>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Rianna Character Post</strong><br><br><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong>&nbsp; Early Afternoon<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Early Afternoon<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong> Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong> Corann<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no)</strong> No<br><br><hr><br>The conversation had turned Corann contemplative. Rianna watched his alien features shift swiftly from emotion to emotion.&nbsp; Perhaps her knack for getting down to business was unusual for the Chosen.&nbsp; He was still young, it seemed, so his aspirations were probably more talked about than enacted.&nbsp; He did finally reach words through his contemplation and Rianna nodded at his sentiments.&nbsp; It was more clear now why he had taken an immediate interest in her.&nbsp; He was looking for a specific Chosen.&nbsp; Maybe a friend or a brother or something.&nbsp; His story was indeed unfortunate, having to start over with the clothes on his back.&nbsp; Well, and the weapons.&nbsp; He could easily sell off a blade or two if he needed some funds for the short term.&nbsp; More likely though, these weapons were important to him.&nbsp; Each one likely had a story and name, and to sell them would be troubling for him.&nbsp; It probably would be easier for him to liberate some money from opponents who had obtained it unlawfully.&nbsp; <br><br>The ale here was passable.&nbsp; Rianna had gotten used to the various local ales on her journey.&nbsp; Dulon's Landing probably had better ale than most, but the mead she had tried at one of the small towns along the way was still the best she ever had.&nbsp; Surely, to the other travelers, the ale was quite good, but she couldn't get past that mead, so everything seemed dull in comparison.&nbsp; The sailors were all singing racously as Rianna finished her fist mug of the stuff.&nbsp; She had to smile at the song.&nbsp; Sailors knew some of the most interesting shanties.<br><br>Corann's question was to be expected, and Rianna's answer was not entirely complicated, but she wasn't sure if it was the answer he was looking for.&nbsp; "My goal, is to become an Arcane Champion, the highest level of warrior of the Academy.&nbsp; If I can become a fighter that people fear to match, I can help protect the people that need it."&nbsp; The damage that had been done to Accord was exhaustive.&nbsp; Much of the city was useless when the Shadow Legion suddenly moved out.&nbsp; After a few years of rebuilding it was inhabitable, but still the scars were visible.&nbsp; Rianna didn't want to see something like that again. Those were her people that suffered. "To achieve that goal," Rianna said after a short pause, "I will not only need to grow stronger, but I will need to learn much more about this world.&nbsp; The Academy has taught me much, and among the most important is that knowledge of your enemy is a greater weapon than any sword."&nbsp; <br><br>Around that time Boris dropped off a large bowl of stew and some bread for Rianna.&nbsp; She noticed Corann wasn't eating yet and asked, "Have you eaten yet? Have some if you're hungry."&nbsp; After all, the man had lost his money.&nbsp; Surely a hot meal would help quite a bit.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bloodied Porcelain</strong> on <strong>01-09-2012, 21:31:22</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab235/bloodiedporcelain/elcharacterpics/childedit1.jpg)</div><em>Solfiria Character Post</em><br><strong>Time of day beginning post</strong>: 1 pm-ish<br><strong>Time of day ending post</strong>: 1 pm-ish<br><strong>Location beginning post</strong>: Outside the Bold Bison<br><strong>Location ending post</strong>: Outside the Bold Bison<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with</strong>: Nemea<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?</strong> No<br><hr><br>Sol stayed quiet as he offered to deal with people for her... to make her life a bit easier by making sure that people couldn't put their unwanted attentions on her. It was a little surprising... alarming, even... that someone who didn't know anything about her aside from her name and the fact that she didn't want to be an adventurer was offering so readily to help her. Still, she masked the surprise easily by focusing on shoving her new boots down in to her pack, tucked between the the heavy leather wall the pack provided and the rest of her things. <br><br>It was his singing, however, that really had her paying attention. Even as he sang, she seemed to go somewhat still, her hand resting inside her pack, as if in the middle of the hunt for some elusive object she was searching out. Mismatched eyes closed slowly as she listened, her head canting to the side slightly, taking in the soft, gentle tone. The words of the song left something to desire in her mind... she never understood why others looked at storms... the rain and clouds... as such gloomy things. The lightning and thunder made her feel alive... it made her heart sing... her muscles trembled in anticipation of the torrent that was going to happen. <br><br>And then... he suggested they go back inside. Away from the storm... out of where the rain would fall on them. A frown furrowed her brow and she looked at him seriously. "Better outside with the elements to battle than inside with people," she answered simply. There was something different in her voice as she said it... something almost distant and disjointed. Mismatched hues held a hint of something that could only be described as... other. Something settled between awe and a dream-like state seemed to enter her features, making what little he could see of the robe-clad woman's face seem placid and at ease. "People should look beyond what they can see," she finally murmured, barely loud enough to be heard, her hand finally withdrawing from her pack and tying it up, sitting back once more, her back resting against the building, and her eyes lifting to the heavens with a sad sort of hopeful gleam to them. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>03-09-2012, 20:55:24</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Corann Character Post</strong></div><br><strong>Time of day beginning post: </strong>Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> An hour or so after noon; time has been passing<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong> Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with: </strong> Rianna<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no):</strong> No.<br><br>Corann’s face lit up with the vibrancy and innocence of an unmoored innocent shown his first adult dance; it was a look of profound hope and expectation, yet it was for conflict, violence, and struggle. In someone who’d grown up in another world, a world without magic and with more peaceful ways to end conflict – and no monsters – Corann’s response would have probably been diagnosed as borderline sociopathic with hints of retarded emotional growth. In this world, however, Corann’s enthusiasm hinted more at someone who had experienced few real battles and who knew little in the way of loss or true strife. <br><br>In Rianna’s experience with the Chosen, she’d have found that most, if not all, of Corann’s people regarded conflict with the same eagerness as this youth, but none had that almost puppy-dog like desire he carried with him. In fact, the mistress of the school in Melk, a woman named Aralyn, was known for her harsh pragmatism, balanced only by her kindness toward those who first helped themselves. It was often said, usually far behind Aralyn’s back, that the woman would sacrifice half the world if it meant protecting her people. If that was the case, it made sense for the school to exist; albeit in a twisted sort of way.<br><br>Sipping from the mug of ale that his new friend had purchased for him, Corann looked over at Rianna’s bowl and announced, voice carrying, “Why thank you, my friend. I would love a bowl of stew.” He flashed her an award-winning all-white smile that showed lots of unbroken teeth. The Inn Keeper returned with another bowl and Corann began tucking in with amazing gusto. The boy literally downed the whole bowl in a matter of seconds, burped once, and then plastered that same smile on his handsomely lean featured face.<br><br>“Sounds like you and I, we’re cut from the same cloth,” Corann said at last. “Get stronger. Kill those evils that stand in our way. Fix the broken world. Ah, my father would be so proud that I’ve found a kindred spirit out here.” He clearly meant to insinuate ‘out here, with all the weaker races’ but had just enough tact not to say so.<br><br>“Perhaps we can visit the blood elves?” Corann suggested, sounding hopeful and practically leaning off his chair in eagerness – and not to glance down Rianna’s front. Though that might be a bonus for the youth.&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>03-09-2012, 20:55:58</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>GM Note: </strong> Be sure to tag me if you try to do anything magical with/toward the storm.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AribethAmkiir</strong> on <strong>04-09-2012, 06:04:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j480/Erion2451/imagesqtbnANd9GcS9_OPu2UlXIEHWAEMAihAw7O4FwIHsbaYiD7B2cxE28OhQxSp7ww.jpg)</div><div align="center"><strong>Hollywillow Character Post</strong></div><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong> 1 p.m.ish ? ? ?<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> same<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Entering the Dulon Landing<br><strong>Location ending post:</strong> Outside the Bold Bison<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong> Sol, Nemea<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no)</strong> No<br><br><br>Robin blue eyes flicked wearily between the village before her and the ominously dark sky overhead.&nbsp; Holly wasn’t sure which she dreaded more.&nbsp; Even from where she was, a few dozen paces outside the village, she could already smell the stench of many beings living too close to one another.&nbsp; When she glanced back at the two solitary trees she’d received advice from she was shocked to see how far away they were now.<br><br>The constant buzz of whispers she heard within the forest was gone, replaced by different types of whispers.&nbsp; Whispers which made her bark-like skin crawl and tingle.&nbsp; Auburn colored brows knitted together as she stared at the nearest building.&nbsp; As far as she knew, buildings didn’t whisper, but maybe they’d learned how since her last visit.&nbsp; It was always possible that these buildings could actually speak like trees.<br><br>Her trepidation momentarily forgotten, Holly wandered closer to the building, pointed her ear toward the structure, and leaned toward it in order to better hear the whispers.&nbsp; <br><br>Of course, she didn’t hear anything.&nbsp; <br><br>Balled fists planted upon supple hips as she stared exacerbated by the structure.&nbsp; She knew she had heard something, and it wasn’t very polite to remain quiet when someone decided to try and listen.&nbsp; Arms crossed before her feminine physique as she stomped and stuck her tongue out at the lodge.<br><br>She could get a hint.&nbsp; If it didn’t want to talk to her, then she’d find something that would.<br><br>That was what she was thinking, at least until she looked up to find herself much further into the small village than she had realized.&nbsp; The smell that accompanied all villages assaulted her nose once more, and her head drew back as her attractive facial features wrinkled in disgust.&nbsp; It was all she could do not to cover her nose, but she remembered that was a rude thing to do, so she didn’t.&nbsp; It wasn’t very pleasant though.<br><br>She turned her head as she heard the whispers again.&nbsp; It was as if they were originating from inside her head.&nbsp; While Holly was fairly naïve of most things in the world, she knew that people weren’t supposed to hear voices in their head, unless someone was speaking to her telepathically.&nbsp; That could be it.&nbsp; Wizards did things like that, and wizards were never very nice.&nbsp; Whispers inside her head seemed like a very not nice thing to do.&nbsp; Especially since covering her ears wouldn’t help, because the voices were inside her head.<br><br>Turning in a full circle, Holly wondered where the wizard was.&nbsp; She wasn’t eager to meet another wizard, since the last one had attempted to make her a slave and morphed her tree into a staff, which she wore on her back.&nbsp; Maybe the stone druid would be willing to tell the wizard to knock it off.&nbsp; It was worth a try.<br><br>Step by step, her bare feet carried her further into the village.&nbsp; She was rather happy that there weren’t many people out, thanks to the angry looking storm that the whispers warned would bring destruction and death.&nbsp; She hoped she’d be back in the forest by then, safe amongst the trees.&nbsp; Of course, that wasn’t why she was happy.&nbsp; She was happy that no one was staring at her.&nbsp; Despite her efforts to wear moss and bramble that would resemble “proper” clothing, she knew it probably wasn’t good enough.&nbsp; It never was.&nbsp; She was sure she’d covered all of her “naughty” bits, as it had been explained to her, though why they were naughty she still didn’t understand.&nbsp; Something had to do something in order to be naughty, and her “bits” only ever did what she did.&nbsp; This meant that they were only naughty when she was being naughty and while mischievous, she was never naughty.<br><br>Holly was brought out of her contemplation by the sound of singing.&nbsp; Her ears perked and she moved quickly, if silently, toward the voice.&nbsp; She didn’t understand why anyone would be singing to a storm, especially a very angry storm that promised to do many bad things, but the song was pretty.&nbsp; When it finished she stepped out from behind the building she’d used to hide and slowly approached the singer.&nbsp; It seemed he was with someone else, somebody who possibly had a fashion sense as outlandish as Holly’s.&nbsp; The Dryad would have to think about adding moss-made veils to her attire, they seemed to add an intriguing allure to the individual.<br><br>Head cocked curiously to the side, Holly continued to approach.&nbsp; She hoped the man would begin singing again, and wondered why he had stopped.&nbsp; The song hadn’t been that joyous, but it had been pretty and pretty things should never end.<br><br>Aware that she was out in the open, with nowhere nearby to hide, Holly decided to be sociable.&nbsp; <strong>”Hi,”</strong> she nearly shouted before realizing she’d spoken much louder than she’d intended as her gray bark-like skin flushed slightly.<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Niki315</strong> on <strong>04-09-2012, 09:27:59</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/c/cd/Fpic22-ava1.jpg) (http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/1/10/Fpic22.jpg)</div><strong>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Rianna Character Post</strong><br><br><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong>&nbsp; Early Afternoon<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong>&nbsp; Early Afternoon<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong>&nbsp; Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong>&nbsp; Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong>&nbsp; Corann<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no)</strong> Nope<br><br><hr><br>The Chosen she was speaking with was certainly interesting.&nbsp; His child-like nature showed up frequently in response to the prospects of combat.&nbsp; Much of her experience with the Chosen demonstrated a consistant eagerness for conflict, but Corann was different.&nbsp; Something like looking up to combat as if it were an approving father, or a respected role model.&nbsp; Rianna's closest comparable experience was in her early teens, when she looked up to her trainer in adoration.&nbsp; She wanted to make him happy so she excelled in everything he taught her.&nbsp; Corann's gestures reminded her entirely of the experience.&nbsp; But, she couldn't help but notice its strangeness.<br><br>Rianna gracefully dipped her bread in her bowl of stew while Corann devoured his.&nbsp; It was mildly amusing, but to be expected.&nbsp; A man of his size doesn't get to be so large without a suitable amount of food.&nbsp; It became obvious in this moment that her first impression of him had entirely changed.&nbsp; She wasn't sure what role she would play in a party with him.&nbsp; She pictured herself as a reserve fighter, tactically choosing the right opportunity to step in if things got too heated.&nbsp; Rianna was still chewing when Corann commented about their similarities.&nbsp; In a way, she could see it, but Rianna believed more that combat should be minimized or avoided when possible.&nbsp; That was very different than the glorification of combat that Corann held.&nbsp; She did not furrow her brow as she considered the differences; her face didn't share any sign of the conclusions she had made.&nbsp; She simply continued chewing her food as amusement crept onto her face.<br><br>"Indeed we are similar, certainly similar enough for our paths to victory to meet as they have," she said after swallowing.&nbsp; She followed it with a soft closed-lipped smile and went back to eating her food.&nbsp; She lightly dabbed her bread in her stew again and took another small bite, chewing deliberately and thoroughly.&nbsp; Odd for one considered a soldier, who often eat in a moment's notice.&nbsp; Some of her childhood never escaped her.&nbsp; While she could certainly consume her meal in a flash, in public Rianna always composed herself as a noble.&nbsp; Though she wasn't actually certain if her family still approved of her.&nbsp; Or if they even still lived.<br><br>A slight shake of her head dispelled the grim thoughts and brought her back to the conversation.&nbsp; Corann was leaning forward eagerly hoping for the Swordmage's approval to go "visit" the blood elves.&nbsp; She was certain she would need to head to the olive groves to procure some components, and if rumor were to be true, the blood elves had settled in.&nbsp; If what they did could be considered settling.&nbsp; Rianna smiled her simple smile and nodded.&nbsp; "Yes, we should certainly pay a visit to the blood elves.&nbsp; I have business at the olive groves anyhow."&nbsp; <br><br>From Corann's angle, there was a rather good view of Rianna's chest.&nbsp; While her nipples were covered securely by the frame that wrapped around her torso, nothing held the frame together.&nbsp; Her breasts rested in a very natural bowl shape, with a slight separation preventing any serious cleavage, though their shape was natural yet equisite.&nbsp; Rianna didn't seem to notice whether Corann was viewing her purposely or not, and in reality, she didn't exactly care.&nbsp; The last few years had seen an overwhelming amount of stares at her body, a result of her manner of dress.&nbsp; She couldn't complain as she had chosen and designed the outfit herself to optimize her own mana recovery.&nbsp; As an added benefit, it also made many of the fighters she faced underestimate her.&nbsp; After all, who would fight without wearing proper armor?&nbsp; Who would want to harm this pretty young girl? This swordmage had learned to make short work of those that would underestimate her.&nbsp; Luckily, her style of combat was somewhat unique, making very few people able to truly adapt to it in short altercations.&nbsp; As long as she fought with all her strength, the fight was usually over before her opponent could truly recover.&nbsp; It was the most liberal she allowed herself to be with her code of honor.&nbsp; Purposeful deceit was against her morals, but the blame was not hers to bear alone.&nbsp; Only those that underestimated her were truly to blame.&nbsp; But here, her dialogue with Corann gave her an interesting topic to consider.&nbsp; As potential allies, they would need to work together.&nbsp; The question was, did Corann underestimate her, or does she underestimate him?&nbsp; And further, would these false estimations threaten their survival?
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>arkhos</strong> on <strong>04-09-2012, 09:56:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Nemea Character Post<br>Time of day beginning post: 1 pm-ish<br>Time of day ending post: 1 pm-ish<br>Location beginning post: Outside the Bold Bison<br>Location ending post: Outside the Bold Bison<br>Characters currently interacting with: Sol, Holly<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? No<br><hr><br><div class="floatright">(http://i1240.photobucket.com/albums/gg481/indytims/Nemea1.jpg)</div>Nemea looked positively surprised when Sol suggested that it would be better to remain outside during the storm - especially a storm that promised to be a terrible one, possibly with property damage and the like. He attempted to get that across to Sol as gently as he could. He understood her aversion to contact with others - his own sensibilities in that regard were similar to hers, but where she used caution to seemingly guide her actions, Nemea's curiosity seemed to guide his.<br><br>"The storm, though curious enough, also appears to be an intimidating one," he said, looking up at the sky. "I can sense the... the magic... about it, as if the storm itself is unnatural, or is born of magic. That could mean being amongst it when it strikes could be very dangerous, lady," he said, glancing over at Sol momentarily. "I would implore you to return inside with me - just to be safe," he said.<br><br>"If you choose to remain outside, though," he said moving to lean against the same structure she was leaning against, "Then I shall remain as well." He got as comfortable as he could, sitting near Sol - but not right next to her, making sure that she still had plenty of space from him. From all that he had read, some people and even some entire races didn't like others being so physically near them. So, he did his best not to crowd - especially given that he was only an hour or two removed from knocking poor Sol off her feet in the middle of the street.<br><br>Nemea's long snow-white locks swayed as he turned his head, though, to the sound of a new voice. It was loud, and rather surprising given the relative silence from the town around them. His eyes turned to gaze at the newcomer, curiosity instantly setting in the dim red-hued eyes as he gazed upon Hollywillow's gray bark-like skin. He noted that her clothing was apparently made from moss and bramble, and immediately he began to wonder what manner of creature this was that stood before him and Sol now.<br><br>When he noticed that the woman was addressing he and Sol, Nemea glanced at Sol, then turned back to the newcomer. "Greetings," he said in return. "Well-met, lady. How may we be of assistance?" he asked politely.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bloodied Porcelain</strong> on <strong>05-09-2012, 06:09:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab235/bloodiedporcelain/elcharacterpics/childedit1.jpg)</div><em>Solfiria Character Post</em><br><strong>Time of day beginning post</strong>: 1 pm-ish<br><strong>Time of day ending post</strong>: 1 pm-ish<br><strong>Location beginning post</strong>: Outside the Bold Bison<br><strong>Location ending post</strong>: Outside the Bold Bison<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with</strong>: Nemea<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?</strong> No<br><hr><br>Sol was hard pressed to tear her eyes from the sky above her, the roiling black-gray of the clouds seemed to fascinate her and the thought of the rain on her skin set her blood to rushing in her veins, causing deep, forbidden parts of her to quake in a mixture of anticipation and fear. Her thoughts were all but consumed by the memory of the dream she'd had just the night prior, and so she barely heard anything of what he said, though it could easily be assumed to be some kind of plea for her to reconsider regarding going inside or staying out in the open. "If you're so afraid of the weather, go on inside then," she said in an almost dismissive tone, but then he was sitting next to her and a delicately feathered white eyebrow quirked in curiosity. Well... he wasn't going to give up easily, now was he? <br><br>Black swathed arms crossing over her full chest, she wondered for a moment if perhaps she shouldn't just go along with it in case the storm really was magic... she wasn't afraid of it, magic or not, but she wasn't in the business of having another person's blood on her hands if he did something stupid like hung around in a storm where he likely didn't stand a chance of protecting himself. She was just about to concede defeat and head inside when another voice all together broke in in the middle of their conversation. <br><br>Admittedly, it was a bit rude to not wait for a real lull in their talking, but it was also fortuitous that the odd female was standing there now. Perhaps a mostly-naked wild thing would distract her white haired companion from his campaign to get himself killed by sitting out a storm he was in no way equipped to deal with. As Nemea was saying hello to the other woman, Sol gestured at her absently. "Why don't you see if you can get her to go inside with you and perhaps go on that adventure you and Corann are so intent on? Looks like she might have some kind of skills to help you all out. If nothing else... she should certainly prove to be entertaining anytime you reach a town, dressed like that," she said with a soft chuckle before looking at the woman with a slight shrug. "No offense meant, of course." 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AribethAmkiir</strong> on <strong>08-09-2012, 04:32:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j480/Erion2451/imagesqtbnANd9GcS9_OPu2UlXIEHWAEMAihAw7O4FwIHsbaYiD7B2cxE28OhQxSp7ww.jpg)</div><div align="center"><strong>Hollywillow Character Post</strong></div><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong> 1 p.m.ish ? ? ?<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> same<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Outside the Bold Bison<br><strong>Location ending post:</strong> Outside the Bold Bison<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong> Sol, Nemea<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no)</strong> No<br><br>Autumn colored hair bounced as Holly's head cocked to the side and soft, feminine features contemplated the white haired male inquisitively.&nbsp; How could they be of assistance?&nbsp; That was a very good question.<br><br>Holly worked her mouth for a moment as she contemplated her answer then spoke quickly, <strong>"Well, I met a really strange guy who was guarding his horse while I was looking for the tree that tells the best stories, but I got lost because the trees played a very clever trick, but then I met Castoff and Briar, and we promised to help the horses, but then Briar played a whistle and disappeared after saying the storm was going to bring catastrophe, and the storm is very ominous and dangerous, and the whispers say that the storm will change everything, but it's helping the village not smell so bad and I had to come here on my own to get help to drive away the blood elves, but the trees were afraid of the storm and the whispers are likely right, so if I can get back into the forest before the storm hits then everything should be just fine.&nbsp; Since you asked if you could help though, then yes, I need people to kill the blood elves to cure the forest, which will then protect us from the storm."</strong><br><br>Once done it was hard to tell if she'd breathed during her spill.&nbsp; The Dryad hadn't missed Sol's comment though.&nbsp; She glanced down at her attire before turning her questioning look upon Sol.<br><br><strong>"Do you like it?&nbsp; I tried to make it fit what people in the village wear, but I really don't know what people in a village wear because I don't go into villages often.&nbsp; I didn't know I was supposed to wear things over my face, if I'd known I would've worn them.&nbsp; If that's what you mean, I'm truly sorry.&nbsp; If, somehow, though my dress makes you smile, then that isn't necessarily a bad thing, is it?&nbsp; But I don't like to go into villages so if I did join a group, which I've never done before, I'd want them to go into villages so that I could stay in the forest.&nbsp; Of course, I saw a place that didn't seem to have trees, and if we were in a place like that together, I'm not sure what I'd do."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>08-09-2012, 04:53:27</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Corann Character Post</strong></div>(sorry for the extremely short post; just sitting around talking for now)<br><strong>Time of day beginning post: </strong>Noonish<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> An hour or so after noon; time has been passing<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong> Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with: </strong> Rianna<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no):</strong> No.<br><br>Corann clearly caught a glimpse of Rianna’s flesh; oddly enough, the man neither blushed nor stared. Rather, he simply acknowledged it with an level of raw approval entirely above his evident level of maturity, then sat back in his seat evenly, no indication of the drives he was, no doubt, carrying around with him. <br><br>Finishing his meal, Corann arched a brow at his new companion, “Business? What sort of business?” It was fairly common knowledge that the olives in the grove produced an oil that allowed blades to be forged with both greater flexibility and tougher edges; not magically so, but enough to be near that quality. Such blades, forged by the sole Dwarf in Accord (along with a few other, usually Gifted, smiths) had once fetched a high price and much notoriety for Accord. Now, between the desolation of the war and the absence of the oil, the trade had fallen away. To be honest, the Chosen, excellent smiths, some of which had supernatural powers, had taken the arms manufacturing niche quite honestly. <br><br>If Corann realized that starting the oil trade back up might step on his people’s toes at all, he didn’t show it. Then again, the Chosen were dedicated entirely toward military conflict against evil monsters; forging weapons for the rest of the world probably mattered little to anyone other than those who found value in money. <br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Niki315</strong> on <strong>08-09-2012, 07:51:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/c/cd/Fpic22-ava1.jpg) (http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/1/10/Fpic22.jpg)</div><strong>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Rianna Character Post</strong><br><br><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong>&nbsp; Early Afternoon<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong>&nbsp; Early Afternoon<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong> Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong> Corann<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no)</strong> No<br><br><hr>A strand of shimmering black hair fell forward over her shoulder.&nbsp; Again, she instinctively brushed it back into place with the aid of a simple spell.&nbsp; She continued to eat tactfully even after Corann had finished his own.&nbsp; His curiosity over her statement was a little strange.&nbsp; It made her consider that there was a personal interest of his own bundled in with this mission.<br><br>"Oh, it's the nearest area that might have some white olives.&nbsp; The Academy uses them as a component in an elixir.&nbsp; We've nearly exhausted our stock, and our original supplier was wiped out during the war.&nbsp; It would be difficult to negotiate a regular trade agreement over such a distance, so I'm to procure what I can while further arrangements are made."&nbsp; Rianna's words were precisely composed, like that of an academic, but her voice was light and warm like a good friend's might be.&nbsp; For a soldier, she had a very feminine voice, not sultry or sexy exactly, but something of a different sort of charm.&nbsp; When she spoke earlier, it was so formal, but now it appeared asd if she were relaxing.&nbsp; <br><br>The swordmage took a long drink from her mug and speculated about this "trip" to the groves and "visit" with the blood elves.&nbsp; Corann was sitting with two others earlier, in fact some of their things were still sitting out at the table, but neither of them had returned yet.&nbsp; It was hard to gauge just how this dynamic was going work out when she didn't even know the other members.&nbsp; Or if there would be other members. Her blue eyes stared off into space momentarily while she absentmindedly ate another bite of the stew.&nbsp; Without truly returning her thoughts to the current location she asked Corann, "What sort of tactics would you say you are familiar with in combat, Devoted?&nbsp; Which would you say do you favor?"<br><br>In times of war, the tactical advantage is what truly determines the victor.&nbsp; Some say that it is a match of equal numbers where tactics determines the victor, but Rianna didn't see it that way.&nbsp; In a fight of equal tactics, numbers become the determining factor.&nbsp; But no matter how much faith she had in tactics, she was not certain two people against an unknown number of blood elves would be victorious.&nbsp; In her mind she was considering strategies, but in the end assumed they would need another fighter on hand most likely.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>09-09-2012, 01:26:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Corann Character Post</strong></div><br><strong>Time of day beginning post: </strong>1-2ish.<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> 1-2ish.<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong> Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with: </strong> Rianna<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no):</strong> No.<br><br>Corann watched as Rianna moved her hair back, watched as it fluttered under its own power, with neither words nor gestures to propel it. His over-sized, captivatingly hungry eyes narrowed in consternation, “Are you a Psion? A worker of mind magic?” He asked the question in an odd sort of way, as though he had some intensely vested opinions about what she might say.<br><br>As he waited for her to formulate a reply, Corann sat back in his seat, seemingly nonplused by the numerous weapons that were, no doubt, poking and prodding his back from the posture. That he’d managed to sit at all was a minor miracle; no spellcaster would detect any form of magic from it, though a skilled warrior could see that he’d positioned every one of his weapons just so, and moved with them as naturally as a dancer, with an unconsciously serpentine grace.<br><br>As Rianna’s use of his proper honorific, Corann’s eyes danced with clear pleasure that reflected on his face with a huge, beaming smile that revealed sharp teeth. “I’m somewhat naturally resistant to magic, but my specialty is weaponry.” He gestured at his small arsenal with a fluid wave of his hand. “I am missing my Needle, my bow, and would very much like to replace it, but would need to travel to Melk or Durus to do so. Or, perhaps Accord, if the Dwarf there is as skilled as I hear.” He shrugged nonchalantly. “I won’t only be good at combat after a while though, no matter what my father would have of me. Mother and Uncle Folst made it clear that magic is the number one threat in combat.” He nodded at his words, as though to reinforce them to himself.<br><br>Glancing out toward the doorway, as though anxious for his friends to return, Corann returned her question, “And yourself, my lady? Clearly you use some sort of magic or power, yes?”&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>arkhos</strong> on <strong>09-09-2012, 02:04:38</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Nemea Character Post<br>Time of day beginning post: 1 pm-ish<br>Time of day ending post: 1 pm-ish<br>Location beginning post: Outside the Bold Bison<br>Location ending post: Outside the Bold Bison<br>Characters currently interacting with: Sol, Holly<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? No<br><hr><br><br><div class="floatright">(http://i1240.photobucket.com/albums/gg481/indytims/Nemea1.jpg)</div>Nemea listened politely to Sol's rebuff as she suggested Nemea accompany the newcomer inside. Not for the first time, she tried to shoo him away, to get rid of him, and he was starting to get the hint. Not one to linger long where he wasn't wanted, he nodded to Sol, finally capitulating to the woman's desire to be alone.<br><br>But then... Holly went on a verbal rampage. Nemea's eyes widened slightly a few times, his eyebrows raised each time he thought she might take a breath - but if she did, he was not able to see it. Did her kind even -breathe-? He wasn't sure. Perhaps the woman was nervous? Anxious? Or just plain excited to talk to new people?<br><br>He smiled, and assumed the best - the woman was likely just shy, which he could certainly relate to, and her gushing dialogue was simply evidence of someone not entirely comfortable amongst strangers. Politely he remained quiet, letting the woman go for as long as she felt a need to. He then glanced at Sol for a moment in obvious surprise, then turned his attention back to Holly. Whispers and voices and Blood Elves and storms! Exciting, all, he thought.<br><br>"I was just mentioning to Sol that the storm looks quite ominous... dangerous, even. And if you have it on good authority that it brings catastrophe, then I would recommend even more vigorously that we adjourn inside out of its way for the evening," he said, glancing to Sol and then back to Holly. <br><br>"What is your name, lady? I am Nemea, and I am curious to meet you," he said. "I do not think I have seen your kind before... may I ask what you are? Or perhaps you'd be willing to go inside out of the storm's path and tell us more about yourself?" he asked. He gave another look to Sol, too, a silent urging to also go inside - especially in response to the newcomer's warnings about the storm.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bloodied Porcelain</strong> on <strong>09-09-2012, 07:21:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab235/bloodiedporcelain/elcharacterpics/childedit1.jpg)</div><em>Solfiria Character Post</em><br><strong>Time of day beginning post</strong>: 1-2 pm-ish<br><strong>Time of day ending post</strong>: 1-2 pm-ish<br><strong>Location beginning post</strong>: Outside the Bold Bison<br><strong>Location ending post</strong>: Inside the Bold Bison<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with</strong>: Nemea, Holly<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?</strong> No<br><hr><br>When the strange bramble-clad woman seemed to develop an instantaneous case of verbal diarrhea, Sol watched and listened to her with a mixture of surprise and amusement. On the one hand, the shift in her speech (both amount and speed) was stunning enough to render Sol speechless as she went on. And on the other hand, the fact that she felt the need to talk so very, very much was enough to make Sol want to laugh and walk away. Perhaps the girl was a loon. Perhaps she really did just think that talking that much was necessary... no one could really be sure, honestly, but Sol was betting on loon. She said she talked to trees, after all. <br><br>Though she exchanged glances with her white haired companion and seemingly determined caretaker who showed every sign of not only insisting she go outside, but following her should she chose to venture even further out in to the area the storm was threatening with it's fury, she seemed far less impressed and interested than he was in the newcomer. After a moment, however, of her babbling about covering her face and Nemea insisting that they should all go inside and out of potential harm's way, Sol rolled her eyes. Go inside with them so they'd shut up about the damn storm and about her putting herself at risk... or stay outside and risk this white haired guy getting hurt because of her? <br><br>Groan. Damn conscience. "Fine," came her short, annoyed sounding reply. "Let's go then. Come on, nature girl. Come on, Snow." She sounded less than thrilled, but part of her was secretly hoping that once the other two were inside and surrounded by people who liked to talk as much as they did, she might be able to slip away on her own. Standing, she grabbed her pack, slung it over her shoulder, and set off in a flutter of black robes toward the door of the Inn without even waiting for the auburn haired woman to answer Nemea's question about what she was. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Niki315</strong> on <strong>10-09-2012, 06:19:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/c/cd/Fpic22-ava1.jpg) (http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/1/10/Fpic22.jpg)</div><strong>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Rianna Character Post</strong><br><br><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong>&nbsp; Early Afternoon<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> Early Afternoon<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Inside Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong> Inside Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong> Corann, probably everyone else soon<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no)</strong> No<br><br><hr><br>Rianna was caught a little by surprise by Corann's question.&nbsp; She couldn't figure out what made him consider that she was a psion.&nbsp; She shook her head and answered, "No, I'm not a psion.&nbsp; My magic is closest to sorcery."&nbsp; She moves the bowl on the table, again without gesture.&nbsp; A simple hand of force moves her food gently.&nbsp; "Most of what I have trained is attack magic, but I know some minor utility spells, some of the basics that most magicians learn early to help train.&nbsp; Things like lifting small items, opening doors, changing something's color.&nbsp; Little things like that.&nbsp; For me, I have trained the simple spells to perfection.&nbsp; I usually have them active at all times.&nbsp; They don't create enough drain on me to even notice their use.&nbsp; If I need to concentrate on something though, I usually end any other enduring spells that I have active."<br><br>After finishing her explanation of her magic, she ate the last bit of her stew and set her bowl to the side.&nbsp; Rianna's posture was sitting remained attentive while Corann started to relax, despite the plethora of weapon on his back.&nbsp; Rianna's sword would probably drag on the gronud if she leaned back or slouched at all.&nbsp; She would remove the scabbard when she was ready to relax, but for now, there was no need.<br><br>Corann's response to her own question made her chuckle.&nbsp; Weaponry did appear to be one of his specialties.&nbsp; One should be able to tell simply by looking at him.&nbsp; The loss of his Needle was now starting to sound more like a weapon rather than a tool, as she had originally assumed when he was talking about his Neelde and Threads earlier.&nbsp; His family had properly informed him of the threat that magic posed.&nbsp; It was common for magicians to be targetted first, which was why magicians always looked for the best people to serve as shields, or simply make golems or undead to act as such.&nbsp; Rianna wasn't exactly a typical magician, so she was always considered a bodyguard type due to her lack or ranged ability.&nbsp; After considering Corann's response she nodded then answered, "I am a swordmage, so my duties are to engage in melee combat, primarily against the foes that pose the greatest threat.&nbsp; My magical abilities allow me to cause great amounts of damage and obscure my position from my opponent making it difficult for them to place a damaging hit.&nbsp; Tactically, I prefer to engage an opponent in tight corridors, wide enough for me to swing my sword, but not so wide that they can get around easily."&nbsp; <br><br>Rianna noticed Corann's glances over toward the door and expected he was hoping that his companions would return.&nbsp; They had left just as she had arrived, so she wondered if perhaps she was the cause.&nbsp; As they discussed things it appeared they might be returning.&nbsp; The veiled woman entered first, and Rianna wondered if she would be joining Corann and her at the table.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>13-09-2012, 02:46:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Corann Character Post</strong></div><br><strong>Time of day beginning post: </strong>1-2ish.<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> 1-2ish.<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong> Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with: </strong> Rianna<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no):</strong> No.<br><br>“Tight corridors?” Corann asked, sounding both piqued and a bit incredulous. “My experiences in indoor fighting have made it pretty clear to me that if I want to be effective using a long blade in a tight space is a waste. Even magical blades nick when you smash the tips into solid stone, and it’s nearly impossible to maneuver fluidly with a blade even as long as a three and a half foot broadsword.” <br><br>Skirting away from the table, careless of the fact that the tavern was packed to the gills with uneasy sailors, a half golem and her giant husband, Corann spread his arms in a wide motion, as though he were sizing something, then he went to the roaring fireplace and grabbed the handle of one of the metal pokers – giant sized, so it was probably closer to five feet long. When the giant inn keeper looked up, Corann waved a hand in his direction, followed by a practically luminescent white smile, before nearing the table.<br><br>“See,” Corann began, flourishing his poker, “good for stabbing and broad strokes,” then he stepped closer to the table, until the lower portion of his pelvis and thighs were pressed tightly to the wood and made another flourish, “but not so good when someone is close.” He lowered the poker and pointed to a spot about two thirds of the way from the handle. “The craftsmen among my people talk of a blade’s sweet spot, yes? The place where a wielder’s force and power is magnified. Outside of that sweet spot – especially for a huge weapon, most likely used for slashing rather than ornate lunges, the effectiveness of strikes are greatly reduced. I doubt that I could splinter a man’s armor if he was this close and I had my big one out. A dagger, on the other hand…” He gestured at one of the multitude of daggers strapped across his chest, shrugged, and returned the poker to the fireplace with a wave of thanks to the innkeeper.<br><br>That done, he sat back down. After his demonstration, the man moved with a little of the predator in his steps, an eagerness for violence that was more wolfish than human. Then again, he wasn’t human.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AribethAmkiir</strong> on <strong>13-09-2012, 03:53:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j480/Erion2451/imagesqtbnANd9GcS9_OPu2UlXIEHWAEMAihAw7O4FwIHsbaYiD7B2cxE28OhQxSp7ww.jpg)</div><div align="center"><strong>Hollywillow Character Post</strong></div><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong> 1 p.m.ish ? ? ?<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> same<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Outside the Bold Bison<br><strong>Location ending post:</strong> Outside the Bold Bison<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong> Sol, Nemea<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no)</strong> No<br><br>Holly wrinkled her nose and gave the building a look of disgust before shaking her head negatively as vehemently as possible.&nbsp; <br><br><strong>"No, no, no, no, no.&nbsp; Inside is bad.&nbsp; There's nowhere to run.&nbsp; Nowhere to go when the storm hits.&nbsp; The forest is good.&nbsp; The trees will protect you.&nbsp; I'm sure it stinks in there too.&nbsp; If you have friends inside you should tell them to come out.&nbsp; I don't know why people go inside, it's definitely not natural."</strong><br><br>Robin-egg blue eyes moved back to the white haired man, <strong>"I am Hollywillow, a Dryad.&nbsp; Who are you and what are you?"</strong>&nbsp; She replied challengingly.&nbsp; <strong>"Why aren't you wearing stuff over your face?"</strong><br><br>As Sol moved towards the Inn's entrance, Holly stared at the veil-clad woman worriedly.&nbsp; She had meant what she had said and didn't mention that it had taken all of her will to enter a village.&nbsp; Entering a building would require Holly to be unconscious, or something similar.<br><br><strong>"Don't go inside,"</strong> Holly called after the woman worriedly.&nbsp; <strong>"It can't be safe."</strong><br><br>The Dryad had already taken a readying step toward the way she'd come.&nbsp; She could possibly run and escape before they captured her and made her wear clothes or, even worse, took her inside.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>arkhos</strong> on <strong>13-09-2012, 10:03:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Nemea Character Post<br>Time of day beginning post: 1 pm-ish<br>Time of day ending post: 1 pm-ish<br>Location beginning post: Outside the Bold Bison<br>Location ending post: Outside the Bold Bison<br>Characters currently interacting with: Sol, Holly<br>GM Intervention Request\Required? No<br><hr><br>Nemea couldn't believe his luck. JUST when Sol had agreed to finally go back inside, here was another damsel, Hollywillow she said her name was, who refused to go inside. What was it with women in these parts, and not wanting to be inside, under the sturdy protection of a roof when a terrible storm was imminent? <br><br>He watched Sol as she began to move back into the inn - hopefully Corann would see her and make sure she was well, if his eyes weren't glued too tightly to that other newly arrived female. But now Nemea's eyes turned to Hollywillow, his head tilted slightly to the side. It was fairly obvious that where she was from, customs were a little different from his own, or even those of the people in the small village they currently occupied.<br><br>"Why don't I wear.... oh," he began. "The veil! Well, some people in SOME lands wear such devices to hide their faces for various reasons. Some because they are ugly or unsightly to gaze upon. Some because they are TOO beautiful for others NOT to stare at them, and some are wanted by various authorities for crimes or other reasons so hide behind a veil so as not to be recognized. Some wear them as fashion statements, and still some do so in order to appear 'mysterious' to possible suitors." He paused for a moment, glancing to make sure Sol was out of earshot. "I saw a brief glimpse behind her veil earlier today, and I think she is simply beautiful, but justdoesn't want to attract attention," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.<br><br>Nemea then cleared his throat and spoke again in a normal tone. "So, you'll likely discover that few people in this land actually wear a veil. They aren't required here - at least, not that I've been told," he said.<br><br>"My name is Nemea. I am an elf," he said with a gentle smile. "It is a pleasure to meet you and make your acquaintance, Hollywillow the Dryad."<br><br>His brow quickly furrowed though when she mentioned about not going indoors. "I assure you it is quite safe," he said. "In this part of the world, people go inside all the time during storms. In fact, it's the best shelter, and they've been doing it for ages here!" he assured her. He saw her take a step away, as if to return the way whence she came."<br><br>"Won't you come inside for just a little bit, Hollywillow the Dryad? We have another friend or two inside, and I know you would enjoy the conversation, and perhaps a drink. I'd love to hear about your people, for I know very little of Dryads in general, and in turn I'd be happy to tell you of mine. I promise nothing bad will befall you, and we will only remain inside long enough for the storm to pass over."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Niki315</strong> on <strong>14-09-2012, 17:47:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/c/cd/Fpic22-ava1.jpg) (http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/1/10/Fpic22.jpg)</div><strong>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Rianna Character Post</strong><br><br><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong>&nbsp; <br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> <br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> <br><strong>Location ending post: </strong> <br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong> <br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no)</strong><br><br><hr><br>Rianna nodded along with Corann's presentation.&nbsp; Indeed he was correct, her weapon was not truly well suited for 'tight' corridors, but much of her indoor combat experience was in rooms and corridors roughly 10 feet tall and at least 8 feet wide.&nbsp; In those conditions, given Rianna's moderate height, she was still able to place a powerful diagonal strike, but many that were taller than her needed to resort to thrusts.&nbsp; Few wanted to get close enough to pin her weapon as she was typically brimming with fire or sparking with electricity.&nbsp; It just so happened that what Corann was speaking about didn't take into the conditions she meant, which was likely her using words that created a more specific image.&nbsp; <br><br>"Ah yes.&nbsp; I probably should have omitted the word tight," she said after a moment's contemplation.&nbsp; "In reality I mean areas about 12 feet tall or shorter and no narrower than eight feet wide.&nbsp; Not exactly tight spaces, but still corridors.&nbsp; It gives a smaller fighter like myself a bit of an advantage, especially when bulkier fighters are unable to fit side by side.&nbsp; Specifically, the fewer ranged attackers that are able to fire on me the better, no matter the circumstances.&nbsp; Indoor fighting makes ranged fighting more difficult."&nbsp; Rianna had to smile at the eagerness of Corann showing off his combat knowledge.&nbsp; She now knew that he underestimated her, which was fine for now.&nbsp; She would have every opportunity to display her ability for combat when they went against the blood elves.&nbsp; <br><br>Rianna took another drink from her mug, slowly once again.&nbsp; She did feel a little insulted that he thought she was unfamiliar with what he had just talked about.&nbsp; She had practiced with her blade since she was a child.&nbsp; She knew everything there was to know about Irrias, a greatsword made generations ago by her ancestors.&nbsp; It was important that she corrected the slight at some point.&nbsp; And as much as she wanted to inform him immediately, she refrained deciding to let her skills do the talking later.&nbsp; Short of a direct fight, there would be no way to explain these things to this Chosen, and if she were to fight with Irrias, it would be difficult to keep the fight from escalating.&nbsp; Whether she won or lost against him, it would be difficult finding shelter afterward.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>16-09-2012, 02:19:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Corann Character Post</strong></div><br><strong>Time of day beginning post: </strong>1-2ish.<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong> 1-2ish.<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Seaside Sal's<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong> Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with: </strong> Rianna<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no):</strong> No.<br><br>Corann radiated the air of a true youth as he spoke, not-quite lecturing. As someone familiar with the ways of the Chosen, it would probably be clear that he was echoing sentiments given to him by his teacher more than personal experience. This was a boy, despite how powerful his body appeared, appealing to a like-minded warrior and, perhaps even more poignantly, a lovely young woman. Under other circumstances, one could make the assumption that Corann had just left his homeland for his first adventure. What made that unlikely was in the way he carried himself: poised, balanced, loose-limbed, as though he actually did know what he was doing.<br><br>And odd mixture.<br><br>Nodding with Rianna’s words, eyes going wide enough to make the whites around his slitted irises sparkle, his mouth doing much the same (more flashing of sharp teeth). “Ohh! I see what you mean! I figured maybe you had some special shape-changing magic in your weapon or something.” He nodded briskly, as though to emphasize the earnest honesty in his words and not the fact that he was back peddling away from a mistake. <br><br>More smiling. “Anyhow,” he began, “It’s mid-day and the olive groves are a solid ten or so miles from here. If we’re going to go, we aughta collect anyone who wants to go with and head out. Otherwise, I suggest we contemplate rooms.” At which point the alien, handsome youth flinched a bit, remembering that he had no coin. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bloodied Porcelain</strong> on <strong>21-09-2012, 04:55:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab235/bloodiedporcelain/elcharacterpics/childedit1.jpg)</div><em>Solfiria Character Post</em><br><strong>Time of day beginning post</strong>: 1-2 pm-ish<br><strong>Time of day ending post</strong>: 1-2 pm-ish<br><strong>Location beginning post</strong>: Outside the Bold Bison<br><strong>Location ending post</strong>: Inside the Bold Bison<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with</strong>: Nemea, Holly<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required?</strong> No<br><hr><br>"Oh, for the love of..." Sol began under her breat as the dryad called out to her. Really?! She wanted to shout at people to make up their damn minds, to decide inside or out or to let her go on her way without being followed around, but the veiled woman lifted a tiny hand to rub at the imprint between her eyes, fingertips rubbing the downward facing half-sun. This was almost half the reason why she disliked being around people... they were so fickle and eager to disagree with and bug each other over almost anything. Sighing some, Sol paused just outside the Inn door and watched the dryad and elf argue with each other. <br><br>This was seriously starting to get old. The elf wanted her to go inside... the dryad insisted it was a bad idea and they were better off in the forest (though honestly even Sol thought that was ludicrous... she'd chance an open field during a storm if for no other reason than there was less likelihood of falling/flying tree branches. After a moment of standing there, entirely unsure what to do, Sol finally rolled her eyes. Her head was starting to throb from all this disagreement between people, including herself. Fuck it. She needed a drink now anyway, and she'd forgotten to fill her wine skin while she was inside. <br><br>"I'm getting a drink," she finally announced in a voice just barely loud enough to be heard over the rumble of thunder above them. "You two sort this mess out." And with that, she turned on her heel to head back inside. She did not, however, make her way back to the same table as before, and instead moved to the bar, looking for an open seat and an opportunity to order something to drink. Preferably something stiff that would help curb the throbbing in her temples. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>22-09-2012, 02:37:06</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>GM Update:</strong></div><br>The tabletop game is now, more or less precisely, 3 weeks ahead of this game. Most of that was travel. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Niki315</strong> on <strong>23-09-2012, 05:27:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/c/cd/Fpic22-ava1.jpg) (http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/1/10/Fpic22.jpg)</div><strong>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Rianna Character Post</strong><br><br><strong>Time of day beginning post:</strong>&nbsp; 1-2 PM<br><strong>Time of day ending post:</strong>&nbsp; 1-2 PM<br><strong>Location beginning post:</strong> Bold Bison Inn<br><strong>Location ending post: </strong> South Entrance to Dulon Landing<br><strong>Characters currently interacting with:</strong> Corann<br><strong>GM Intervention Request\Required? (Yes/no)</strong> Yes<br><br><hr><br>Rianna's mug was empty now as her fingers traced the simple designs on the edges.&nbsp; Her reaction to Corann's response was fairly muted.&nbsp; A quiet nod sufficed as if she were still contemplating exactly what the purpose of his display was.&nbsp; There were many types of magic, and blade magic wasn't unheard of.&nbsp; One of the magicians she trained with would toss a heavy blade into the air and animate it.&nbsp; Some would conjure swords and spears in a wall to make approaching a target near impossible.&nbsp; She hadn't seen someone manipulate their blade's dimensions or shape, but it did not seem too far-fetched given her experience with magic.<br><br>When it came to the subject of the olive groves, Rianna had to consider things carefully.&nbsp; Her pensive face tightened at the brow just slightly and her lips pressed together while she thought.&nbsp; On the one hand, leaving now might mean they could stay ahead of the storm, but on the other, if they were caught in the storm on the way to the groves, there would be no cover.&nbsp; She had no desire to be caught in the downpour without a roof over her head.&nbsp; "If we were to go to the groves today, we would need to leave presently to stay ahead of the storm.&nbsp; I'm not certain leaving now would even change whether we're caught in the rain though.&nbsp; Gather up whoever you think would be suitable, and I will purchase some supplies.&nbsp; Is there anything you need?&nbsp; We can discuss terms and responsibilities later."<br><br>Rianna stands up quickly, her charms jingling in the process and her hair tumbling down her back.&nbsp; "Meet me at the South road in thirty minutes."&nbsp; She adjusts her bag and counts out the proper amount of coin for the meals and adds a little extra for some fruit and dried meat.&nbsp; After acquiring everything, she walks gracefully out of the inn.<br><br>Leaving the Inn was a minor shock to her senses.&nbsp; The bright sun in the sky and the dark roiling crowds looked out of place together.&nbsp; The winds in the air carried the smell of the sea and a little bit of something else.&nbsp; After a moment's hesitation she walked briskly to the shop next door.&nbsp; She browsed for things that would make their trip a little easier.&nbsp; Torches, tents, other simple survival gear.&nbsp; In addition she bought some parchment and ink, and asked about healing potions.&nbsp; In the end she bought what was reasonably priced and headed to the South Gate to meet with Corann and whomever he could get to come with.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>23-09-2012, 13:23:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>GM Response to Rianna</strong><br><br>Basic objects, like torches and rope, will be inexpensive: a few silvers, at most. Magical healing potions will cost you hundreds of gold. They will be moderately effective but not incredibly powerful. Think in terms of healing lacerations and damaging cuts, not broken bones or severed limbs. You can currently afford one or two, but you'll probably be near broke doing so. Your character comes from a minor nobility; however, unless I'm missing it, she has no bags of holding or other magical devices to cart around hundreds of coins on her scantily clad person. <br><br>If you want to hunt around for a bank or someone to loan you gold based on your family name, feel free. I don't see any reason that your family's assets - measured in the thousands, not the tens of thousands - could be leveraged to help your character. Keep in mind that pulling thousands of gold out of your family's accounts will have repercussions though, should you decide to go that route. <br><br>Let me know if you have any questions. I'm glad to negotiate possible alternatives. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>23-09-2012, 13:24:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Holding Corann's next character post for the other two players, just FYI. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The World of Ora</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Dariusfallenstar</strong> on <strong>25-09-2012, 02:40:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Game Closure Notice</strong></div><br>I've been contacted by two players with concerns that they are uncertain how to continue posting or fit in. This, in tandem with the fact that my schedule is growing increasingly tight, too tight to recruit new players or introduce reasons for reluctant players to adventure in the current group, has led me to decide to end this campaign.<br><br>For those of you who were regular posters and truly enjoyed playing, I'm sorry. Perhaps I'll try this again in the future.<br><br>
			</dd>
		</dl>
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