Mikhail smelled the fresh air just up ahead. They were just about to exit the cave and Marn, most likely forever. The trio broke from the cave to see the sun caressing the horizon. The rain had stopped, leaving a fresh scent for Mikhail to revel in. The sky above them was red with large amounts of dispersing clouds blotted throughout. Mikhail smiled, thinking that he would never be happier to be out in the wilds of Thar Shaddin. They had surfaced a few miles south of the historical district, a couple hundred feet from the Ofriyu Mar. Mikhail started walking quickly west, knowing this was a time to put distance between the group and the city, but there was one problem. Other than west, he had no bearing. He stopped suddenly and spun around to Anarawad.
“Where exactly are you from, lad?” He asked with a frown.
Death, Doom, and Distraction
Re: Death, Doom, and Distraction
"I'm from a small town in the isles of Pretana, in the southern parts. I can't wait to see those emerald hills." Anarawad answered with the hint of a smile, but then he frowned, "Problem is, I don't know the exact way. Once I get to Pretana, I can manage. My father got all of his books around those isles, but I didn't memorize the way here, to Marn. I managed by direction of traveling folk."
He looked to the odd skies, trying to remember some landmarks on the trails. He had stayed to the trade routes for the most part, but a lot of Eyropa was still pretty wild and the beaten path sometimes just ended in the middle of nowhere. He had been lucky to make it this far, getting back wouldn't be a simple feat. However, this time, he had accomplished elder companions to travel with.
"So, Christof, about these Gnome weapons..." he began as the three started on the first leg of a long trek.
He looked to the odd skies, trying to remember some landmarks on the trails. He had stayed to the trade routes for the most part, but a lot of Eyropa was still pretty wild and the beaten path sometimes just ended in the middle of nowhere. He had been lucky to make it this far, getting back wouldn't be a simple feat. However, this time, he had accomplished elder companions to travel with.
"So, Christof, about these Gnome weapons..." he began as the three started on the first leg of a long trek.
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Christof
- Outsider
- Posts: 44
- Joined: Mon Oct 31, 2011 2:52 am
- Name: Christof Von Haustanzer
- Race: Human
Re: Death, Doom, and Distraction
”Mikhail you lead the way for now, you seem to know your way around the woods, if you need any help I’m positive I have a map here somewhere” Christof said as the trio marched on.
”Well Anarawad, these Gnome weapons, as you so quaintly put it, are fickle and powerful, almost like my sister” he said jokingly, ” but I digress, I tend to do that a lot, speaking of which digress is an odd word isn't it? Digress, digress, hmm will have to look up the origins of that word later, ah right guns, well lad you get better with practice, and unfortunately these tend to malfunction too much for a proper practice, ill think of something though….”
Christof continued talking to Anarawad about gnomish weapons and other things, mostly other things, for a couple of hours, trying his best to explain the complex workings, functionality, and proper care and use of guns and telling him he would better train him when given the proper chance.
After several days of following Mikhail and referencing his own map, Christof noticed that they might be lost, or at least not where there supposed to be. ”Mikhail” he began still referencing the map, ”I don’t mean to question your navigation skills, but do you know where we are?”
”Well Anarawad, these Gnome weapons, as you so quaintly put it, are fickle and powerful, almost like my sister” he said jokingly, ” but I digress, I tend to do that a lot, speaking of which digress is an odd word isn't it? Digress, digress, hmm will have to look up the origins of that word later, ah right guns, well lad you get better with practice, and unfortunately these tend to malfunction too much for a proper practice, ill think of something though….”
Christof continued talking to Anarawad about gnomish weapons and other things, mostly other things, for a couple of hours, trying his best to explain the complex workings, functionality, and proper care and use of guns and telling him he would better train him when given the proper chance.
After several days of following Mikhail and referencing his own map, Christof noticed that they might be lost, or at least not where there supposed to be. ”Mikhail” he began still referencing the map, ”I don’t mean to question your navigation skills, but do you know where we are?”
Re: Death, Doom, and Distraction
Mikhail attempted to protest, but before he could the Inquisitor was already yammering on to Anarawad about guns and whatever else happened to cross his mind at that very second. Mikhail sighed and set off toward Pretana. He knew exactly where to go and almost every route there, but he couldn't help drifting off the beaten path, it was in his blood. It started out innocently enough. After camping for the night after their escape from Marn he found a set of rabbit tracks. The thought of a freshly roasted rabbit made his stomach ache. So he set off to track the creature, drifting northward. He promised himself that he would correct their route just after he found his dinner. When he did finally track down the rabbit and kill it he fell upon something else. He noticed a small stone statue, half buried into an eroded hill. Altering course again, he led the group further north as he tried to find more signs of what had built that statue. Sadly he had not found anything, and by the time Mikhail relented to the fact he had led them hopelessly off path. He figured if they had not noticed he could guide them back on a southerly route. Unfortunately Christof seemed to become aware that they were not going the right direction.Christof wrote: “Mikhail you lead the way for now, you seem to know your way around the woods, if you need any help I’m positive I have a map here somewhere,” Christof said as the trio marched on.
Mikhail frowned, then turned toward Christof and smiled. “I know exactly where we are. We're about forty miles southeast of Pedom Morini.”Christof wrote: “Mikhail,” he began, still referencing the map. “I don’t mean to question your navigation skills, but do you know where we are?”
Mikhail did not know why he was trying to convince the seasoned inquisitor that they were heading in the proper direction. Everyone who ventured through Eyropa knew that Pedom Morini was a big crime city, and the only safe place to set off to Pretana was the small fishing village of Trelham, which was about half as far from where they were as Thar Shaddin was. They were at least another ten day journey from their destination. Mikhail knew he would never hear the end of it.
Re: Death, Doom, and Distraction
"Pedom Morini!" Anarawad gasped, "That's not at all where I figured we'd be heading."
He pondered for a moment that perhaps Mikhail was an enemy, but he quickly shook it off. The silver weapon wound the shifter had sustained had been proof enough that he was not a friend to these people they were tracking down. However, he had led them off course. Perhaps he hadn't meant to? Either way, Anarawad promised himself that he would keep a tougher eye on the new acquaintance.
"How are we going to find these people?" he blurted as the thought struck him, "With you leading us awry and having no idea where they are in that strange land, I'm not so sure we will survive this."
He pondered for a moment that perhaps Mikhail was an enemy, but he quickly shook it off. The silver weapon wound the shifter had sustained had been proof enough that he was not a friend to these people they were tracking down. However, he had led them off course. Perhaps he hadn't meant to? Either way, Anarawad promised himself that he would keep a tougher eye on the new acquaintance.
"How are we going to find these people?" he blurted as the thought struck him, "With you leading us awry and having no idea where they are in that strange land, I'm not so sure we will survive this."
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Christof
- Outsider
- Posts: 44
- Joined: Mon Oct 31, 2011 2:52 am
- Name: Christof Von Haustanzer
- Race: Human
Re: Death, Doom, and Distraction
“Oh ye of little faith” Christof chuckled at Anarawad,”He may have gotten us lost here, but luckily we are also found”
Christof placed his map down on a nearby stump, flattening it out and setting several rocks on it to hold it in place. As the other two gathered around he pulled out another map and set it to the side and pointed to a spot on laid out map saying ”Now, the current plan was to head to here, but do to ,ahem, navigational error by Mikhail here, we are actually here.”
Christof then spread the other map over the current map. The second map read Pendom Morini on the top of it and was incredibly detailed, showing all types of roads, houses, and even names of different stores. Located at the bottom of the map was what looked like a small fortress labeled Haustanzer Manor with a crest very similar to the one on Christofs eye patch and gloves. Christof then pointed to a spot along a road with his gloved hand
”Judging by current calculations, we should be here, as Mikhail stated were about forty miles outside of Pendom, but were also about twenty miles away from Haustanzer Manor, my family home where we can get some needed rest and supplies, also we can plan our next route, so as not to get lost again.”
Christof directed the last part toward Mikhail with a look of annoyance. He then rolled up the maps and started to head down the road, and started to head toward his home thinking Annette will be surprised that I’m home early, and brought company that’s unusual, Father should be happy as well.
As the Trio headed south away from the crime filled streets of Pendom Morini, the trees alongside the road began to thicken the farther away from the city they traveled, causing the road to become earily dark even though it was about midday. As the group continued down the road shapes could be seen following them along the roadway, though barely out of sight,
”Don’t worry there only wolves, they hardly attack humans…unless they haven’t had a nice kill in a while”
As if to punctuate his sentence a howl came from behind them on the road and a pair of yellow eyes could be seen glowing in the half dim of the forest. Christof motioned the group forward keeping his hand on his pistol just in case. Though the wolves still followed them they did nothing, giving off the occasional howl or darting across the road in front of them, until they reached the city of Helsburgh. Though the city looked bright compared to the rest of the forest, partially due to the lack of trees, resembling an oasis of light or a beacon of hope in the darkness, located north of the city on a large hill was Haustanzer Manor. The manor was about half the size city surrounded by a stone wall with a large tower on the left side.
”It used to house the lord of this city a few hundred years ago, if my great grandfather was alive still he could tell you about it, but after the lord died our family took it over after we became successful in international trade, but that’s a story for another time, I might actually have a book on it somewhere in there, well lets not dally here I can explain more when we get there.”
As the trio walked through town, Christof coulden’t help but think how he was going to explain to his sister and father why he was going across the sea, a thing hardly anyone came back from.
Christof placed his map down on a nearby stump, flattening it out and setting several rocks on it to hold it in place. As the other two gathered around he pulled out another map and set it to the side and pointed to a spot on laid out map saying ”Now, the current plan was to head to here, but do to ,ahem, navigational error by Mikhail here, we are actually here.”
Christof then spread the other map over the current map. The second map read Pendom Morini on the top of it and was incredibly detailed, showing all types of roads, houses, and even names of different stores. Located at the bottom of the map was what looked like a small fortress labeled Haustanzer Manor with a crest very similar to the one on Christofs eye patch and gloves. Christof then pointed to a spot along a road with his gloved hand
”Judging by current calculations, we should be here, as Mikhail stated were about forty miles outside of Pendom, but were also about twenty miles away from Haustanzer Manor, my family home where we can get some needed rest and supplies, also we can plan our next route, so as not to get lost again.”
Christof directed the last part toward Mikhail with a look of annoyance. He then rolled up the maps and started to head down the road, and started to head toward his home thinking Annette will be surprised that I’m home early, and brought company that’s unusual, Father should be happy as well.
As the Trio headed south away from the crime filled streets of Pendom Morini, the trees alongside the road began to thicken the farther away from the city they traveled, causing the road to become earily dark even though it was about midday. As the group continued down the road shapes could be seen following them along the roadway, though barely out of sight,
”Don’t worry there only wolves, they hardly attack humans…unless they haven’t had a nice kill in a while”
As if to punctuate his sentence a howl came from behind them on the road and a pair of yellow eyes could be seen glowing in the half dim of the forest. Christof motioned the group forward keeping his hand on his pistol just in case. Though the wolves still followed them they did nothing, giving off the occasional howl or darting across the road in front of them, until they reached the city of Helsburgh. Though the city looked bright compared to the rest of the forest, partially due to the lack of trees, resembling an oasis of light or a beacon of hope in the darkness, located north of the city on a large hill was Haustanzer Manor. The manor was about half the size city surrounded by a stone wall with a large tower on the left side.
”It used to house the lord of this city a few hundred years ago, if my great grandfather was alive still he could tell you about it, but after the lord died our family took it over after we became successful in international trade, but that’s a story for another time, I might actually have a book on it somewhere in there, well lets not dally here I can explain more when we get there.”
As the trio walked through town, Christof coulden’t help but think how he was going to explain to his sister and father why he was going across the sea, a thing hardly anyone came back from.
Re: Death, Doom, and Distraction
Berated by a child and made the fool by an Inquisitor all in the span of minutes. Mikhail's face turned red as his traveling companions dug into him, which he should have. He was extremely lucky to land the group near Christof's home town, otherwise it probably would have been much worse for him. He was surprised when he'd seen the city that Christof was from. Mikhail, himself, had never visited the city in his decades of travel. He did not spend much time at the western edges of Eyropa, but he had figured that he'd at least seen every city in the region.
When they passed into the city limits he shoved two cotton balls he'd managed to find along the way. It was not near as bad as the city they had just left, but it was smelly enough to make Mikhail cautious. Sudden migraines were never a good thing, especially in lands a high level Inquisitor calls home. He dug some food out of his bag as they passed through what seemed to be the business center of the city. He watched the people around him going about their lives as he scarfed down a few rolls.
Soon enough, the gate to Christof's manor was upon them. Mikhail gawked at it in wonder. He'd never set foot in a residence of that size. He suddenly felt horrifyingly out of place in the rags he called clothes. I knew I should have lifted a set of nice clothes from those Liberatus thugs, he thought.
He leaned over to Anarawad. "Ever seen anything like this?"
When they passed into the city limits he shoved two cotton balls he'd managed to find along the way. It was not near as bad as the city they had just left, but it was smelly enough to make Mikhail cautious. Sudden migraines were never a good thing, especially in lands a high level Inquisitor calls home. He dug some food out of his bag as they passed through what seemed to be the business center of the city. He watched the people around him going about their lives as he scarfed down a few rolls.
Soon enough, the gate to Christof's manor was upon them. Mikhail gawked at it in wonder. He'd never set foot in a residence of that size. He suddenly felt horrifyingly out of place in the rags he called clothes. I knew I should have lifted a set of nice clothes from those Liberatus thugs, he thought.
He leaned over to Anarawad. "Ever seen anything like this?"
Re: Death, Doom, and Distraction
"Only in books, my friend." Anarawad replied as he eyed the manor in front of him.
A house such as this one must have a library, and where there was a library there were books, and where there were books there was Anarawad. He smiled widely, ready to take in the centuries of knowledge housed within. They may be biased, he guessed, but they could be read none the less.
As they made their way up to the doors, he realized that he didn't know any of the local customs and fashions. Perhaps he would be too underdressed or overdressed, or his mannerisms would make him a fool. He shook away his thoughts quickly. No one had ever hated the charming Anarawad, had they?
He peeled back his cloak lightly to expose his weapons, concealing them was rude when in someone's home. He looked over at the inquisitor, studying him. He had no idea the newly found friend had come from a family that was so well off.
"Hey Christof, while we are supplying ourselves here, could you teach me a little of the sword? I'm useless with one and I am going to be no good to you two if my gun breaks or decides it doesn't want to fire."
A house such as this one must have a library, and where there was a library there were books, and where there were books there was Anarawad. He smiled widely, ready to take in the centuries of knowledge housed within. They may be biased, he guessed, but they could be read none the less.
As they made their way up to the doors, he realized that he didn't know any of the local customs and fashions. Perhaps he would be too underdressed or overdressed, or his mannerisms would make him a fool. He shook away his thoughts quickly. No one had ever hated the charming Anarawad, had they?
He peeled back his cloak lightly to expose his weapons, concealing them was rude when in someone's home. He looked over at the inquisitor, studying him. He had no idea the newly found friend had come from a family that was so well off.
"Hey Christof, while we are supplying ourselves here, could you teach me a little of the sword? I'm useless with one and I am going to be no good to you two if my gun breaks or decides it doesn't want to fire."
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Christof
- Outsider
- Posts: 44
- Joined: Mon Oct 31, 2011 2:52 am
- Name: Christof Von Haustanzer
- Race: Human
Re: Death, Doom, and Distraction
Christof walked up a large set of stairs leading up to the large oaken doors of the Manor while listening to the other two talking behind him,
”I know it’s big, as stated before its used to house a feudal lord, but since us Haustanzers are merchants at heart, the extra space is wonderful for storing goods among other things.” he said reaching the top of the stairs, ”and to answer your question Anarawad, I can teach you some swordplay but I have a few things to take care of first.”
Finishing his last thought Christof threw open the large wooden doors, light flooded into the chamber beyond revealing a long hallway, lined with pictures and suits of armor, leading up to a large balcony flanked by twin half spiral staircases. The décor of the hallway could easily be described as gothic, the dark stone walls following the oaken floor into the great room, with a thin royal blue carpet with gold trim set as the path to follow from the large doors. The great room was much different than the hallway, several banners hung from the vaulted ceiling, displaying an assortment of family crest and other symbols, all leading to a large banner displaying the Coat of Arms of the Haustanzer family over the balcony, the room was also much brighter for the room had several large stain glass windows depicting the changers war and other similar motifs.
As the three walked into the center of the room Christof looked to the top of the balcony and shouted,
”Annette I know you’re up there, quit acting like a child and introduce yourself to our guest”
With a look of disappointment on her face, the girl named Annette stood up from behind the balcony railing, she had auburn hair that was cut just above her shoulders, steel colored eyes and didn’t look a day over 20.
”Christof you always ruin my fun, did one of those witches you always go off to fight steal your humor? Or was it one of those Coreazn women you always seem to talk about?” She said jokingly as she walked down the stairs, her red dress flowing behind her.
”This is my younger sister Annette” Christof began as she made her way twards the group ”She still thinks she’s a little girl, even though she helps lead one of the largest merchant family’s in Eyropa, not to mention shes almost thirty five as well” he finished letting a grin cross his face.
Annette slapped Christof across the face saying ”You should NEVER reveal a womans age! Mother would be quite upset with you if she was alive.” Annette quickly regained her composer and straightened her dress saying ”if I knew we were expecting guest I would of made an attempt to dress more appropriately, speaking of which we haven’t been properly introduced yet, who are your companions brother, more inquisitor friends of yours?
”Ah yes how rude of me, this is Anarawad Gaelish and Mikhail Haugan both are….traveling companions of mine, and as stated before this is Annette-Buchard Von Haustanzer, Merchant Baroness of Helsburg and heir to the Haustanzer fortune” Christof said bowing and gesturing to his sister.
”Must you always give my full title Christof? Its so wordy and makes me feel old” She said curtly before giving a small bow ”Charmed to meet the two of you, you must be famished from your journey I was just about to sit down for a meal if you wish the dining hall is in the east wing feel free to help yourselves.”
With that Annette headed toward the east wing and the dining hall, the sound of heals echoing off the walls. When she was out of site Christof turned to the other two, ”She’s a handful at times, but a good girl, smart as a tack to, anyway feel free to have a bite if you wish, I will join you shortly I have to have to take care of a few things first, if I’m not down within an hour you can find me in the library tower in the west wing, ill be in the map room on the third floor. and with that Christof went up the set of stairs Annette came down from and headed further up into the Manor leaving the other two to by themselves.
Christof made his way to the upper rooms of the manor, following the all too familiar path to his father’s room. As he entered the room a raspy voice spoke to him saying “didn’t I teach you to knock boy?” Christof laughed and greeted his father sitting down in a chair across from his father who was nearly hidden behind a wall of financial ledgers. Christof cut to the chase, explaining the current situation as best he could, without saying exactly what he was doing, to his father who didn’t bother to look up from his ledgers. After finishing Christof waited for his father to reply, after a few minutes of silence only broken by the sound of a scratching quill, Christof’s father finally spoke.
”I don’t understand why you always ask me permission, if you need something like supplies talk to your sister, she’s much better at managing things of that nature, I just deal with finances, but yes take what you need, ill mark it accordingly. Always good to see you home son”
”Good to be home Father, I shall hopefully see you when I get back, I shall be in the map room if you require anything”
Christof made his way to the map room telling a servant to tell his guest that he will be taking his supper in the tower. As he walked up the stairs to the room, passing shelves upon shelves of books on various subjects and topics he thought to himself Now the real fun begins
”I know it’s big, as stated before its used to house a feudal lord, but since us Haustanzers are merchants at heart, the extra space is wonderful for storing goods among other things.” he said reaching the top of the stairs, ”and to answer your question Anarawad, I can teach you some swordplay but I have a few things to take care of first.”
Finishing his last thought Christof threw open the large wooden doors, light flooded into the chamber beyond revealing a long hallway, lined with pictures and suits of armor, leading up to a large balcony flanked by twin half spiral staircases. The décor of the hallway could easily be described as gothic, the dark stone walls following the oaken floor into the great room, with a thin royal blue carpet with gold trim set as the path to follow from the large doors. The great room was much different than the hallway, several banners hung from the vaulted ceiling, displaying an assortment of family crest and other symbols, all leading to a large banner displaying the Coat of Arms of the Haustanzer family over the balcony, the room was also much brighter for the room had several large stain glass windows depicting the changers war and other similar motifs.
As the three walked into the center of the room Christof looked to the top of the balcony and shouted,
”Annette I know you’re up there, quit acting like a child and introduce yourself to our guest”
With a look of disappointment on her face, the girl named Annette stood up from behind the balcony railing, she had auburn hair that was cut just above her shoulders, steel colored eyes and didn’t look a day over 20.
”Christof you always ruin my fun, did one of those witches you always go off to fight steal your humor? Or was it one of those Coreazn women you always seem to talk about?” She said jokingly as she walked down the stairs, her red dress flowing behind her.
”This is my younger sister Annette” Christof began as she made her way twards the group ”She still thinks she’s a little girl, even though she helps lead one of the largest merchant family’s in Eyropa, not to mention shes almost thirty five as well” he finished letting a grin cross his face.
Annette slapped Christof across the face saying ”You should NEVER reveal a womans age! Mother would be quite upset with you if she was alive.” Annette quickly regained her composer and straightened her dress saying ”if I knew we were expecting guest I would of made an attempt to dress more appropriately, speaking of which we haven’t been properly introduced yet, who are your companions brother, more inquisitor friends of yours?
”Ah yes how rude of me, this is Anarawad Gaelish and Mikhail Haugan both are….traveling companions of mine, and as stated before this is Annette-Buchard Von Haustanzer, Merchant Baroness of Helsburg and heir to the Haustanzer fortune” Christof said bowing and gesturing to his sister.
”Must you always give my full title Christof? Its so wordy and makes me feel old” She said curtly before giving a small bow ”Charmed to meet the two of you, you must be famished from your journey I was just about to sit down for a meal if you wish the dining hall is in the east wing feel free to help yourselves.”
With that Annette headed toward the east wing and the dining hall, the sound of heals echoing off the walls. When she was out of site Christof turned to the other two, ”She’s a handful at times, but a good girl, smart as a tack to, anyway feel free to have a bite if you wish, I will join you shortly I have to have to take care of a few things first, if I’m not down within an hour you can find me in the library tower in the west wing, ill be in the map room on the third floor. and with that Christof went up the set of stairs Annette came down from and headed further up into the Manor leaving the other two to by themselves.
Christof made his way to the upper rooms of the manor, following the all too familiar path to his father’s room. As he entered the room a raspy voice spoke to him saying “didn’t I teach you to knock boy?” Christof laughed and greeted his father sitting down in a chair across from his father who was nearly hidden behind a wall of financial ledgers. Christof cut to the chase, explaining the current situation as best he could, without saying exactly what he was doing, to his father who didn’t bother to look up from his ledgers. After finishing Christof waited for his father to reply, after a few minutes of silence only broken by the sound of a scratching quill, Christof’s father finally spoke.
”I don’t understand why you always ask me permission, if you need something like supplies talk to your sister, she’s much better at managing things of that nature, I just deal with finances, but yes take what you need, ill mark it accordingly. Always good to see you home son”
”Good to be home Father, I shall hopefully see you when I get back, I shall be in the map room if you require anything”
Christof made his way to the map room telling a servant to tell his guest that he will be taking his supper in the tower. As he walked up the stairs to the room, passing shelves upon shelves of books on various subjects and topics he thought to himself Now the real fun begins
Re: Death, Doom, and Distraction
Mikhail's jaw gaped open widely as he saw the the entrance to the manor. Normally you have to dig into ancient ruins to see anything this immaculate, he thought. Though this home was much cleaner than the ruins he'd been to. Then he smelled someone just beyond them. He straightened up and closed his mouth. Then a woman appeared from behind the railing.
Upon seeing Christof's sister Mikhail instinctively stiffened. She's just his sister, nothing to be afraid of. Calm down you oaf! As his mind escaped into panic he noticed Christof motion toward him. He bowed slightly, keeping his eyes on the woman. With her cheerful demeanor he wondered what she was hiding. Attempting to keep his thoughts from escaping his control he heard Christof mention that he was going to be leaving them. Mikhail cursed under his breath as the brother left for the library.
“Follow me, gentlemen. Dinner is almost ready,” Annette began making her way down the hall.
Mikhail gestured for Anarawad to walk ahead of him, giving off a nervous smile. They made their way down a few hallways until Annette led them into the dining room. It was, of course, gigantic. Built for large family dinners. A long wooden table stretched through the room with sixteen chairs. A large meal was placed meticulously on it. Only one place was set, but servants stacked two more plates and silverware sets on the table. Mikhail's eyes widened and he started salivating as he saw the splendor of food. He waited for Annette sit down. She sat to the right of the head chair, which Mikhail guessed was custom.
He grabbed Anarawad's shoulder and leaned over, “Careful which place you take, boy. You could offend.”
Mikhail decided to sit across and two down from Annette giving just enough distance from his host to gain some comfort with the situation. Once he sat the servants arranged his place for him. He started to pick out his portions methodically. He knew he couldn't just give in to his primal instincts in this place. He utilized his knowledge of common manners and ate delicately, though quickly.
He started to feel more misplaced when he noticed that even the staff of the manor was dressed better than he. A frown crossed his face once again. I have to buy some nicer clothes one of these days.
“Do your servants always prepare such immaculate meals, Lady Annette?”
Annette laughed, “Please, do not address me so properly. You're deepening my wrinkles. And, yes, this type of meal is always prepared. Our chef is a prideful man. He is always attempting to outdo his past splendors. There are never any leftovers, though. The staff eats what we do not finish.”
Mikhail nodded and smiled then fell silent, feeling that he had fulfilled his obligation to make himself a good guest. Just don't ask me anything, I beg of you.
Upon seeing Christof's sister Mikhail instinctively stiffened. She's just his sister, nothing to be afraid of. Calm down you oaf! As his mind escaped into panic he noticed Christof motion toward him. He bowed slightly, keeping his eyes on the woman. With her cheerful demeanor he wondered what she was hiding. Attempting to keep his thoughts from escaping his control he heard Christof mention that he was going to be leaving them. Mikhail cursed under his breath as the brother left for the library.
“Follow me, gentlemen. Dinner is almost ready,” Annette began making her way down the hall.
Mikhail gestured for Anarawad to walk ahead of him, giving off a nervous smile. They made their way down a few hallways until Annette led them into the dining room. It was, of course, gigantic. Built for large family dinners. A long wooden table stretched through the room with sixteen chairs. A large meal was placed meticulously on it. Only one place was set, but servants stacked two more plates and silverware sets on the table. Mikhail's eyes widened and he started salivating as he saw the splendor of food. He waited for Annette sit down. She sat to the right of the head chair, which Mikhail guessed was custom.
He grabbed Anarawad's shoulder and leaned over, “Careful which place you take, boy. You could offend.”
Mikhail decided to sit across and two down from Annette giving just enough distance from his host to gain some comfort with the situation. Once he sat the servants arranged his place for him. He started to pick out his portions methodically. He knew he couldn't just give in to his primal instincts in this place. He utilized his knowledge of common manners and ate delicately, though quickly.
He started to feel more misplaced when he noticed that even the staff of the manor was dressed better than he. A frown crossed his face once again. I have to buy some nicer clothes one of these days.
“Do your servants always prepare such immaculate meals, Lady Annette?”
Annette laughed, “Please, do not address me so properly. You're deepening my wrinkles. And, yes, this type of meal is always prepared. Our chef is a prideful man. He is always attempting to outdo his past splendors. There are never any leftovers, though. The staff eats what we do not finish.”
Mikhail nodded and smiled then fell silent, feeling that he had fulfilled his obligation to make himself a good guest. Just don't ask me anything, I beg of you.
Re: Death, Doom, and Distraction
Anarawad smiled, he had read several books on Eyropan etiquette. While not many of them mentioned this particular region, the same customs were generally very similar throughout the whole of the continent.Kyon wrote:
He grabbed Anarawad's shoulder and leaned over, “Careful which place you take, boy. You could offend.”
Anarawad gestured toward one of the servants standing in the traditional stance of a general assistant. He removed his cloak, weapons, and armor and handed them to the curt gentleman who whisked them off. He then gave a polite bow to the lady, who returned with a nod, and took his seat next to Mikhail who had chosen his place wisely.
He ate with incredible awareness of his curtesy. He was a little underdressed, but for a traveller he was immaculate and such clothing was decent enough to pass. Mikhail seemed a little shaky addressing Christof's sister, but for the most part he held together nicely.
Anarawad engaged in conversation avoiding topics such as religion and politics. His stances were far too liberal for this household. Once he had gotten his fill, he watched for an opening.
"Annette, your brother said something of a library. I would like to seek permission to enter it and gaze your family's texts. Would you be so inclined to direct me to the head of household?" Anarawad tried.
"No." Annette smiled in a strange manner.
Anarawad was baffled, but smiled back politely and let it go. Perhaps there were secret works in the library or some family volumes not meant for an outsider's eyes, so he would just have to bare it. Depressed, he drifted into a trance of thought on the mysterious Christof and his wealthy family.
The hours seemed to slip by.
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Christof
- Outsider
- Posts: 44
- Joined: Mon Oct 31, 2011 2:52 am
- Name: Christof Von Haustanzer
- Race: Human
Re: Death, Doom, and Distraction
Christof eased back into the overstuffed chair he had decided to dine in while looking over possible routes to Trelham that they could take, as speed was of the essence. The fastest route he could think of was taking a ship from Pendom Morini, but that wouldn’t work out so well as a ship wasn’t scheduled to leave for another two days, so the fastest route would be by foot skirting the coast. Is it that late already? he thought looking at a large grandfather clock opposite of him, I wonder where the others are?, I hope Annette hasn’t decided to play dress-up with them, hard to explain that to my last guest.
Throwing on a black and gold robe, Christof made his way down the stairs and across the great hall to the dining hall, finding his companions there as well as his sister. The scene remind him of something from a book he read once, Annette and Anarawad were busy chatting about local customs and such, while Mikhail seemed to be much quieter than usual, almost as if he was afraid to say something.
"I’m sorry I couldn’t join you all for dinner, I had some minor business to attend to, I hope it was all enjoyable never the less." He said while pouring himself a glass of wine from the table, ”I hope they weren’t any trouble Annette”
”Oh none, none at all” she said, and excused herself from the table and walked over to Christof. As she approached he noticed that she wanted to tell him something, leaning in she whispered into his ear ”I think the taller one is afraid of me, that and Anarawad over there said he wanted to look in the library, I told him no I didn’t know if there were any books he couldn’t look at so I will leave it up to you.”
Christof whispered back ”first off why would a man like Mikhail be afraid of women? That’s a preposterous idea, and second of all I have most of the important books locked away either in my personal chamber or elsewhere that I won’t disclose to you, so he’s fine.”
With a slight nod Annette turned and bid Christof, Mikhail and Anarawad good night and disappeared to her personal chambers. Christof looked at the other two chucking ”I hope she wasn’t too much trouble, she can talk your ear off if given the opportunity, aside from that I almost have everything taken care of supply wise so we can set off once I take care of that tomorrow morning.”
As Christof turned to leave he stopped and looked back ”I almost forgot, Anarawad if you wish you may visit the library, if you need any help finding anything let me know, I will be on the third floor of the library most of the night, and if you are ready to retire for the evening one of the servants shall show you to your room.
And with that Christof turned and left leaving the other two up to their own means again, returning back to the library.
Throwing on a black and gold robe, Christof made his way down the stairs and across the great hall to the dining hall, finding his companions there as well as his sister. The scene remind him of something from a book he read once, Annette and Anarawad were busy chatting about local customs and such, while Mikhail seemed to be much quieter than usual, almost as if he was afraid to say something.
"I’m sorry I couldn’t join you all for dinner, I had some minor business to attend to, I hope it was all enjoyable never the less." He said while pouring himself a glass of wine from the table, ”I hope they weren’t any trouble Annette”
”Oh none, none at all” she said, and excused herself from the table and walked over to Christof. As she approached he noticed that she wanted to tell him something, leaning in she whispered into his ear ”I think the taller one is afraid of me, that and Anarawad over there said he wanted to look in the library, I told him no I didn’t know if there were any books he couldn’t look at so I will leave it up to you.”
Christof whispered back ”first off why would a man like Mikhail be afraid of women? That’s a preposterous idea, and second of all I have most of the important books locked away either in my personal chamber or elsewhere that I won’t disclose to you, so he’s fine.”
With a slight nod Annette turned and bid Christof, Mikhail and Anarawad good night and disappeared to her personal chambers. Christof looked at the other two chucking ”I hope she wasn’t too much trouble, she can talk your ear off if given the opportunity, aside from that I almost have everything taken care of supply wise so we can set off once I take care of that tomorrow morning.”
As Christof turned to leave he stopped and looked back ”I almost forgot, Anarawad if you wish you may visit the library, if you need any help finding anything let me know, I will be on the third floor of the library most of the night, and if you are ready to retire for the evening one of the servants shall show you to your room.
And with that Christof turned and left leaving the other two up to their own means again, returning back to the library.
Re: Death, Doom, and Distraction
Mikhail breathed a sigh of relief as Annette left the room. Finally he could relax. Now that he was thinking clearly a thought popped into his mind. He dismissed himself and grabbed one of the servants.
“Excuse me, sir,” he began. He then lowered his voice to a whisper. “I have a couple of favors I'd like to ask of you. If possible I would greatly appreciate any food you could spare. I am a big man with a big appetite. I require a great deal of sustenance to serve your lord properly. Also, if you could find any suitable clothes that you believe could fit me, I would be in your debt.” He raised his voice back to a more audible tone, “now if you could please escort me to a room where I may lay my head. Rest well, Anarawad.”
The room that the servant had brought him to was more luxurious than the expensive inns that Liberatus used to rent for missions. The bed was large enough for him to sprawl out in and there was plenty of space around it for him to lay his things. He sat and popped open the amulet around his neck. He stared at the small picture of his wife and grimaced. Oh, how you've made life so difficult these past five decades. He laughed at the prospect that his heart still yearned for a woman who spent the last years of her life plotting to kill him.
He was snapped out of his memories of Necessa when the servant returned. He had with him a large closed tray and new clothes for him. Mikhail closed the locket and stood to greet the servant.
“Wonderful, wonderful. Thank you very much, sir. You've done a great deed for your house. This is all I have to offer, unfortunately,” Mikhail said as he took ten bishani from his coin purse and set it into the servant's hand.
“Thank you, sir. It was no trouble at all.” The servant watched Mikhail as he stared intently at the clothing that he'd been presented. “They may be a bit small, but I believe they will fit you, and no one here will miss them.”
Mikhail smiled, “Thank you, sir. That will be all.”
The servant bowed, Mikhail nodded his head in return. The servant left him alone again. He looked back again at the clothes and decided to try them on. He laid them down and took off what he was wearing. He picked up the navy blue tunic and slipped it on. It was tight, but not uncomfortable. He then slipped on the simple black pants. He stared at himself in the full size mirror that hung in the room and laughed at himself.
“We of the wild are not fit to wear such things.” He looked down at his simple brown shoes. “You won't do, now will you? I guess I will have to buy something after all.” He removed the clothes and folded them. He set them on the nearby dresser and put his normal pants back on. The shifter then fell onto his bed and drifted off to sleep.
“Excuse me, sir,” he began. He then lowered his voice to a whisper. “I have a couple of favors I'd like to ask of you. If possible I would greatly appreciate any food you could spare. I am a big man with a big appetite. I require a great deal of sustenance to serve your lord properly. Also, if you could find any suitable clothes that you believe could fit me, I would be in your debt.” He raised his voice back to a more audible tone, “now if you could please escort me to a room where I may lay my head. Rest well, Anarawad.”
The room that the servant had brought him to was more luxurious than the expensive inns that Liberatus used to rent for missions. The bed was large enough for him to sprawl out in and there was plenty of space around it for him to lay his things. He sat and popped open the amulet around his neck. He stared at the small picture of his wife and grimaced. Oh, how you've made life so difficult these past five decades. He laughed at the prospect that his heart still yearned for a woman who spent the last years of her life plotting to kill him.
He was snapped out of his memories of Necessa when the servant returned. He had with him a large closed tray and new clothes for him. Mikhail closed the locket and stood to greet the servant.
“Wonderful, wonderful. Thank you very much, sir. You've done a great deed for your house. This is all I have to offer, unfortunately,” Mikhail said as he took ten bishani from his coin purse and set it into the servant's hand.
“Thank you, sir. It was no trouble at all.” The servant watched Mikhail as he stared intently at the clothing that he'd been presented. “They may be a bit small, but I believe they will fit you, and no one here will miss them.”
Mikhail smiled, “Thank you, sir. That will be all.”
The servant bowed, Mikhail nodded his head in return. The servant left him alone again. He looked back again at the clothes and decided to try them on. He laid them down and took off what he was wearing. He picked up the navy blue tunic and slipped it on. It was tight, but not uncomfortable. He then slipped on the simple black pants. He stared at himself in the full size mirror that hung in the room and laughed at himself.
“We of the wild are not fit to wear such things.” He looked down at his simple brown shoes. “You won't do, now will you? I guess I will have to buy something after all.” He removed the clothes and folded them. He set them on the nearby dresser and put his normal pants back on. The shifter then fell onto his bed and drifted off to sleep.
Re: Death, Doom, and Distraction
Anarawad pushed open heavy double doors to reveal a room full of various books. He could feel his own delight creep across his face as he entered and spun in a full circle looking at all of the literature in the library. He happily skipped to the nearest shelf and scanned around, finding mostly religious books. Frowning, he moved on to the next finding even more puradyne works. They couldn't all be this way, right?
As he worked around, he found the point at which the direction of the reads turned. Half of the library was from the churches or representatives of them, but he was now standing before a section of non-fiction adventures. He slipped out a red jacketed tome and sat on the floor, reading furiously. This first work was the story of a thief traveling from harbor town to harbor town.
He had finished four by the candlelight of a candelabra sitting on a desk. Well into the fifth, he finally looked up noticing that light had begun to peep in from the high set windows. Amazingly, he didn't feel tired at all. He closed the partially-read book and put it back in its place. He wasn't sure what time it was, but the servants were bustling about with no care for quiet so he guessed that his comrades were probably already awake.
He wandered the halls, finally asking one of the servants if breakfast had been served yet and got directions to the dining room. He walked in amidst conversation, noting some that he did not know. He sat politely and began to dig in. If they left that day, he'd need his strength.
As he worked around, he found the point at which the direction of the reads turned. Half of the library was from the churches or representatives of them, but he was now standing before a section of non-fiction adventures. He slipped out a red jacketed tome and sat on the floor, reading furiously. This first work was the story of a thief traveling from harbor town to harbor town.
He had finished four by the candlelight of a candelabra sitting on a desk. Well into the fifth, he finally looked up noticing that light had begun to peep in from the high set windows. Amazingly, he didn't feel tired at all. He closed the partially-read book and put it back in its place. He wasn't sure what time it was, but the servants were bustling about with no care for quiet so he guessed that his comrades were probably already awake.
He wandered the halls, finally asking one of the servants if breakfast had been served yet and got directions to the dining room. He walked in amidst conversation, noting some that he did not know. He sat politely and began to dig in. If they left that day, he'd need his strength.
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Christof
- Outsider
- Posts: 44
- Joined: Mon Oct 31, 2011 2:52 am
- Name: Christof Von Haustanzer
- Race: Human
Re: Death, Doom, and Distraction
Christof awoke still in his chair from last night, he apparently had fallen asleep planning there route and other technical information that would be needed for the trip across the sea. Christof didn’t like using his family’s resources but sometimes it was the only choice. Christof stood up and wiped the sleep from his eyes, unknowingly wiping ink across it, and started the trek down stairs for some breakfast. As he traveled down the stairs he noticed Anarawad still reading Must have been up all night he thought judging by the almost completely burnt out candles.
As he continued his walk towards the dining hall, he was stopped by his sister ”Big brother, you really must look at a mirror when you wake up in the morning” she said with a slight laugh ”you look as if you’re a chimney sweep”. Annette then took out a cloth and wiped down his face, Christof tried to stop her hands in protest saying ”You are not my mother Annette, stop treating me as a child I can get it myself! Annette just smiled and finished cleaning his face, ”Well you need one, you are such a child, come on now let us have some breakfast”
As the two made their way to the dining hall, Christof discussed what was needed with Annette, pointing out exact details and mesurements, Annette just shook her head at her brothers exact calculations, and ramblings on why they needed them, and told him to hand her the list and let her take care of it. Mikhail was already at the table, along with the Elder Haustanzer and several of the staff, stuffing his face as normal, and Christof guessed Anarawad was still in the library reading as he sat down near the head of the table across from Annette, and took a bite out of the jellied toast in front of him.
”Well Mikhail, I trust you slept well, and got yourself a new outfit I see, much better than those drab rags you were wearing before for now I guess, you almost look presentable” he laughed as Anarawad entered the room and had himself a plate.
As he continued his walk towards the dining hall, he was stopped by his sister ”Big brother, you really must look at a mirror when you wake up in the morning” she said with a slight laugh ”you look as if you’re a chimney sweep”. Annette then took out a cloth and wiped down his face, Christof tried to stop her hands in protest saying ”You are not my mother Annette, stop treating me as a child I can get it myself! Annette just smiled and finished cleaning his face, ”Well you need one, you are such a child, come on now let us have some breakfast”
As the two made their way to the dining hall, Christof discussed what was needed with Annette, pointing out exact details and mesurements, Annette just shook her head at her brothers exact calculations, and ramblings on why they needed them, and told him to hand her the list and let her take care of it. Mikhail was already at the table, along with the Elder Haustanzer and several of the staff, stuffing his face as normal, and Christof guessed Anarawad was still in the library reading as he sat down near the head of the table across from Annette, and took a bite out of the jellied toast in front of him.
”Well Mikhail, I trust you slept well, and got yourself a new outfit I see, much better than those drab rags you were wearing before for now I guess, you almost look presentable” he laughed as Anarawad entered the room and had himself a plate.