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BattleMaster => Roleplaying => Topic started by: Logar on February 02, 2014, 11:37:01 AM
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Hi folks,
The following shall be the continuous posts of the in-game RP's from my character Usul Soul, Brother of Logar Soul.
Please feel free to post your own RP's that may be dirctly linked to Usul or his actions.
Usul has had a hard life growing up. He eventually found himself a place as a simple Lord in Cathay, with no direction of where he was going in his life. That was until the rebellion began, to overthrow the current monarchy. After the rebellion was successful, he landed the position of High Chancellor of Cathay.....
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Roleplay from Usul Soul
Usul once again found himself face to face with 'the door'.
Is was the third time in the same day that he found himself in that same spot, staring at the same bunch of keys; consisting of almost 30 keys of various sizes, some made of bronze, some of steel.
Why bother? he thought, knowing that not one of the keys could possibly magically open the door when they had failed on his previous attempts. What is in there? damnit!
Usul discovered the solid oak door early that morning during an exploratory stroll of the dungeons; having not had time to tour the building during the rebellion. At the far end of the dark passage, further on some distance past the prison cells, Usul turned a corner and faced this cursed door that now invites his curiosity.
Roleplay from Usul Soul
After a hefty boot to the large oak door, simply out of frustration, Usul turned about to make haste back to his office suite and seek the missing key. As he turned, he suddenly flinched back against the door, startled by the dark figure towering over him.
"Dammit Erasmus! Don't creep up on me like that."
Head bowed, Erasmus apologised, in his deep and placid tone "I-I I am sorry M'Lord. I heard steps im my dungeons and thought maybe the prisoner had escaped."
Now recovered from his shock, Usul calmly replied "It's fine my friend, I am simply exploring the corridors. Tell me Erasmus, what is behind this door? I'm pulling my hair our trying to find the key."
"Umm... If M'Lord wishes to visit the lower dungeons behind this here door, I carry the key myself."
"Well let's ave it ere then, don't keep me in the dark" Usul demanded
"Was that an attempt at Humour M'Lord?" Erasmus answered sarcastically
"Dont mock me Erasmus!" Usul growled, and then grinned before letting out a faint chuckle "Of course it was you fool. Now that key?
"Yes of course M'Lord.... here" Erasmus said, whilst begrudgingly passing the key to his Chancellor.
Roleplay from Usul Soul
Erasmus lead the way through the large oak door. Usul followed the giant of a man who illuminated their path with a flaming torch in hand.
The room was small and empty, except for a single oak chair in the centre, laying on its side on the cold, stony floor. Evidence of dried blood lay etched between the cobbles and covered the arms and legs of the chair. The room smelt old, damp--unkept for years maybe?
"What is this room?" Usul questioned.
"Ahh M'lord, this be the torture room of the old kingdom" Erasmus answered, almost gloatingly, "It has been many years though, since I have been given the duty to escort prisoners here"
They entered a discussion dabating the pros and cons of torture for a full 15 minutes, before ending it with both agreeing that various torture methods have 'certain benefits' ie. extraction of information and punishment. Erasmus then began describing in finer detail some of the methods he had personally inflicted, including some of his more 'improvised' methods he had devised himself.
"Ok Ok Erasmus, stop playing games with me, wheres the lower dungeons?"
"Pardon M'lord?" Erasmus replied with a quizzing look.
"Let me see...'er the lower dungeons is through that there door' if I recall" Usul reminded, "If I ain't stupid, I would say that this room is...er... not much lower than any other cell in this place?"
Erasmus's mouth widened into a large cheesy grin "No, M'lord is indeed 'not' stupid...please... follow me this way"
Roleplay from Usul Soul
..."This is but a room with just one doorway. Are you playing games with me once more Erasmus?" Usul confusingly questioned, "Where are these lower dungeons you so speak of?"
Erasmus walked into the furthest corner of the room, knelt down and began to scrape lumps of dirt from the edges of a previously unseen slab of stone, set into the floor. He fumbled for a moment, before reavealing a withered rope, which had been concealed beneath the dirt. As he stood up grasping the rope, it continued to slither out from the crease; which surrounded the slab; like a serpent awoken from a long hibernation.
As Erasmus leaned back pulling at the rope, the slab moved with very little effort. A crack appeared, slowly growing into a large gaping hole, revealing nothing but pure darkness beneath.
"If M'lord wishes to see the lower dungeons, please follow me..."
Decending the stony staircase, Usul was hit shockingly by an intense, grotesque odour. The smell of damp and rotton flesh stopped him in his tracks as he became giddy from nausea.
"ughhh, I think those pork scratchings I had earlier are beginning to repeat on me" Usul made the excuse.
"We are here now, wait here" Erasmus ordered.
Erasmus walked around the room lighting each torch that mounted the walls. As light filled the room, Usul stood in silence, shocked...aghast!, half not believing what his eyes were truly showing him.
"Hmmm...." Usul finally spoke, "Erasmus my friend, be sure to keep the entrance to this part of the building concealed. Nobody must know about this part of the building."
"As you wish M'Lord"
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Roleplay from Usul Soul
Visit
While you rot in your cell, Usul Soul, High Chancellor of Cathay, Duke of Lionwood, Margrave of Azros, visits you and says:
Good Morning Leofic, Brother of Valex of the Arcean Empire.
You have the honour of being the first visitor to my humble dungeons. I do hope the accomodation is to your satisfaction.
Now, I understand you have in possession upon yourself an item of beauty. Perhaps you would like me to relieve you of your heavy burden, hmm?
Or perhaps you would rather enlighten with with some information of interest? My faithful servant 'Erasmus', my prison keeper, insists that I should give you a tour of the lower dungeons. I couldnt possibly know what he means. I might allow him the pleasure as I tend to faint at the sight of blood. It doth make me queasy.
I will leave you now, BUT I shall return. I leave you with my words to ponder over. My faithful Erasmus will inform me if you manage to find your tongue.
Oh, dont mind the rats, they are a friendly bunch. Im sure you will all get on very well.
Roleplay from Leofric de Vere
Letter from a prisoner
Prisoner Leofric has sent you a letter:
High Chancellor Yusol,
Feel free to take my blade if you wish. Perhaps you can find a good commoner to repair it for me - I have been searching for some time and the weapon is about to fall apart. It's difficult to find a decent commoner these days. Almost as difficult as finding a decent Judge with the intelligence to ban the loyalist Margrave of the capital after rebelling against his cousin. Looks like we're out of luck on both counts, eh?
Sincerely,
Lord Leofric de Vere
Roleplay from Usul Soul
Visit
While you rot in your cell, Usul Soul, High Chancellor of Cathay, Duke of Lionwood, Margrave of Azros, visits you and says:
Ahh Lord Leofric,
The fall of Anacan was but a mere technicality error, not of my doing. Simply a minor delay.
Your blade--Will this be the same blade you failed so miserably to assassinate a Cathay noble with? I may consider accepting the gift and giving to someone who knows how to use it properly; My kitchen maid could possibly make good use of it to cut cheese.
*Erasmus whispers into Usuls ear*
Oh yes I forgot. Erasmus tells you of your eagerness to explore our fine dungeons having made two attempts of escape. He will be escorting you to our secret lower dungeons 'But dont tell anyone, shhh'. I have told him to keep your tongue intact, as I do hope to hear words from your lips that I might actually find interesting.
Erasmus likes you. He wants me to keep you around for a while. Frankly I would rather have you gone, you make my prisons look untidy, but you do amuse me.
*Usul leaves. Erasmus slips on some tight leather gloves before ushering the prisoner Leofric out of the cell, down a long dark passage.*
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The day after Leofric spend some time with Erasmus in the 'secret lower dungeon'
Roleplay from Usul Soul
Visit (just sent)
While you rot in your cell, Usul Soul, High Chancellor of Cathay, Duke of Lionwood, Margrave of Azros, visits you and says:
Good evening Leofric,
I am glad to see you have found your energy to give my guards grief once more.
Here...eat...
*Hands Leofric a small plate of cheese*
Courtesy of the kitchen maid. She would very much like to see the special blade that I described to her...ah but theres plenty of time for that.
*Erasmus whispers in the Chancellors ear*
Oh yes of course, Erasmus asked 'Please do not attempt to escape again'.
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Roleplay from Raziel Celestine
Raziel was pleasantly surprised.
Since the moment Colosan had seceded he'd begun to see a different side of his Lord. Through the countless hours they'd sat, hidden away behind locked doors in the castle at Azros with Duke Bofeng plotting the rebellion. and all the while the quiet, well spoken Usul had began to show a side of himself that was much more sinister than Raziel could ever have guessed.
But that was nothing compared to the ruthlessness and cruelty that he had shown in dealing with Leofric. To say that Lord Usul had not been pleased about the assassination attempt on his Knight, was an understatement. Raziel had delivered the news himself after his men had dragged the prisoner to the dungeons.
Lord Usul had said nothing at first but a darkness passed behind his eyes that made the young knight's hair stand on end as a shudder went down his spine. The temperature in the room seemed to drop a few degrees.
It was instantaneous, and just as quickly as it came, the moment fled. The calm friendly demeanor that the Knight was so used to returned quickly, and Usul gave Raziel a giant, warm grin.
"No, no... That won't do," said his Lord, "You'll have to excuse me dear Raziel, I must personally see to it that my first visitor is properly accommodated," as he was speaking the warm smile seemed to twist into a gleeful leer of excitement and anticipation, " I wonder if he'd like to help me out with my research?"
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Usul's letter of denial of such atrocities, after questioning from some nobles of his realm:
Letter from Usul Soul
M'Lords,
Where possibly can these absurd accusations be stemming from? Surely you cannot expect anything less coming from the mouth of King Valex himself. I am not surprised that he wishes to spread dissent such as this during a time when we are holding his Brother in our cells. His Brother who was caught wielded a dagger in the midst of darkness, attempting to slice the throat of one of our kin whilst she slept in her bed; Does he consider that a very courteous act? Well of course it is, when it is performed by the hand of the De Vere family.
We simply spoke of cheese and kitchen maids during my visit to Leofrics cell. That was before he made two attempts of escape which were thwarted. He does have a few bruises I admit, but only what can be expected from a minor struggle getting him back into his cell.
In Service.
Usul Soul
High Chancellor of Cathay
Duke of Lionwood
Margrave of Azros
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Roleplay from Usul Soul
within the illumination cast by a lit fireplace, Usul read the letter delivered to him earlier during the day. The blank expression on his face grew tight and scournful as he continued to read. After one year, having not heard or read a single word, Usul finally received a letter from his Father.
"You wretched beast! How dare you, after all this time, write to me questioning the choices I make in my life!" Usul blurted out uncontrollably. He followed his anger by tossing the painful letter into the fireplace.
Feeling a smidgen of relief to have vanquished those written words into nothingness, he sat in silence, pondering...
After thinking silently for a few moments, Usul recognsed the whispy sound of the almost silent shuffling of footsteps, attributed by his prison keeper entering the room.
"Come in Erasmus" Usul pronnounced, "What can I do for you my friend?"
"M'Lord, I heard you shout and was curious to your well-being" Erasmus answered with concern.
Usul looking up to this beast of a man; fascinated by the unusual height and sheer strength of his loyal servant; spoke out "It's fine Erasmus. My Father enrages me so"
Erasmus and Usul had become very close in recent times, sharing banter and good conversation. Usul felt ever grateful for the utter loyalty that his prison keeper offered to him. Realising the uses that this man offered, Usul had promoted him as his own personal guard. Erasmus no longer was responsible for running of his prison, but also of the personal protection and safeguard of the Chancillor himself; It was very clear that Usul needed protection from the many nobles of the land who have become to find him rather untasteful.
"Ahh Erasmus, whilst you are here in my presence, I have something to discuss" Usul announced, "You described to me your unique methods of gaining information from prisoners...umm without leaving marks, am I correct?"
"Err yes I did" Erasmus replied, unsure of where the conversation was heading
"Then tell me, how did our friend Leofric end up with all those bruises" Usul remarked, "You have caused me much grief due to your mistakes, I have had much flak over that affair!"
"I am sorry, please forgive me, for my methods are flawless" he expressed profusely "Whilst blindfolded, our friend mysteriously lost his footing and tumbled down the staircase", before offering a gentle smirk
"Sometimes Erasmus, you do push your luck. Please be more cautious next time, I dont need any more stress like that"
"As you wish" Erasmus replied, still smirking.
"M'Lord, I almost forgot. This report came for you a few hours ago" handing a rolled up scroll to Usul
"By the love of the Gods!" Usul cried as he read, "Come my friend, battle is upon us! retrieve your blade, we are off to war"
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Something happened to Usul that day, on the battlefield. Clearly Usul has some skeletons in the closet...
Roleplay from Usul Soul
Usul, his personal protector Erasmus, and his unit of archers arrived at the battlefield only moments after it had ensued. His men took position and were ordered to fire.
Oh, the bravery of being out of range, he muttered to himself.
Archers were always his first choice in battle, although not shy with the sword. His Fathers training had taught him well whilst growing up; although his forceful methods that were thrust upon Usul were something not to be desired and often met with rebellion. Upon remembering those times of past and the words of the recent letter from his Father; whilst the distant bloodshed could be witnessed in the distance; Usul became once more enraged, gritting his teeth.
As the enemy infanty closed in, "Draw blades!" He ordered.
The enemy charged the ranks and the sounds of meeting steel could be heard all around. Almost face to face with two brave soldiers running towards him, Usul lashed out, and in a series of synchronised swings of his sword, they fell. He lashed out some more, his internal conflicts that raged from within giving life to his blade.
The ground beneath his feet all around became sodden with the staining of blood oozing from decapitaed limbs, his men were being slaughtered before his eyes. Usul screamed out a hefty roar! charged another enemy soldier advancing toward him. Slash, thud, swipe, the soldier was no more. Usul, filled with the throbbing rush of adrenalin continued to stab, piercing the already motionless body, spraying blood and remnants of flesh in all directions. His face covered with the blood of the dead soldier, Usul could taste it as is seeped into his mouth. He was uncontrollable as he continued to grind the body to a pulping mash. Laughing out loud as he raised he sword for another swipe, he became giddy....lightheaded...then weak.
He dropped to his knees and his cries of laughter became those of tears...he wept before his vision faded into darkness as he passed out.
A large heavy hand reached down, picked up the sleeping body of Usul. Erasmus flung the sleeping body over his shoulder and retreated swiftly from the turmoil taking his Chancellor to a place of safety.
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Roleplay from Usul Soul
Staring back at him, Usul saw a young man, healthy jet black hair with not a single curl to disturb the perfect straightness as it draped so delicately past his shoulders.
He adjusted the mirror ever so slightly to a position of better view.
Now Usul slid a dark red silken cloth, to cover the old and tattered book containing ancient parchments he had been studying moments before.
He picked up a silver dagger, clearly decorated by master craftsmen, and adorned with a single blood red ruby on each side at the base of the handle. Beads of sweat glided from his brow as he began to breath deeply, to calm his mind.
In that moment he began to carve.
When the deed was done, Usul placed the bloody dagger beside the covered book. On his chest he could see the blood flowing tatoo formed into a symbol -- An ancient symbol of an old, long forgotton deity.
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Logar,
Excellent Rp's, thanks for sharing.
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Thanks a lot mate. I appreciate that.
Anyway, the saga continues...... ;)
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Roleplay from Usul Soul
Usul found the book stacked with others of similar size but of no particular interest--This book was different though.
During the evening when Erasmus had given him a tour of the 'Lower Dungeon', Usul had approached a large oak chest in one of the corners of the room. The chest contained various items that were unrecognisable to Usul; but were clearly for the use of inflicting a degree of pain; some silverware and a stack of books.
The book that had caught Usul's attention was old, far older that the rest, and eminated an aura of mystery-- It almost screamed out.
Upon opening the book, parchments slid out from within, the pages intact but some beginning to separate from the spine. The pages contained faded writing in ancient tongue unfamiliar to Usul. The parchments were written in both ancient and common tongue, a few pages with maps also.
When questioned, Erasmus knew of the book but had paid no attention to it, having no knowledge of the language. Erasmus then offered to carry the heavy bulk to the office quarters for his Chancellor.
Usul now had the book on a desk within a secluded room, away from the populated working areas of the building. Having already made some progress desiphering a few pages; using the parchments created by a previous persons attempt; He continuted to study his book once again throughout the night.... into the early hour of dawn.
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Roleplay from Usul Soul
Using the notes written by the hand of someone long forgotten, Usul had worked out partial translations and now expanded those notes; with his own; into the building of a seperate book--A direct copy of the 'Book of Zraath', but in the most modern tongue.
Not half of the book was so far translated, but there was still much knowledge that Usul had discovered.
Usul became dreary--the accumulation of too many long nights with a quill in hand. He summoned his loyal keeper "Erasmus!"
Erasmus entered "M'Lord?"
"My friend, I don't know where or how, but I need you to find something for me" Usul ordered, "I seek the meat and flesh of the beast--Fresh! Given the current infestation, I trust it not be too difficult to source.
"No problem M'Lord, as you wish"
As the door closed upon Erasmus's departure, Usul closed his eyes and was overcome by the paralysis of sleep.
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Roleplay from Usul Soul
"...And so the words of Zraath were spoken unto his children
You who pledge to serve within the Temple of Zraath shall be blessed with the sight.
The world shall feel the wrath of my awakening, but only true sight will see the sign, and know the sign,
For you my children will be gifted with the harvest of my blood and body.
My beastly cattle will plague the lands. Those who tame and consume, shall find their place in my temple; Those who deny, shall succumb to the devastation of their sins...."
Usul closed the book.
With bare hands, he grasped the heart and picked it up from the bowl--still warm. He held the heart high above a silver chalice, filling it with the fresh monster blood still oozing from the heart. Took a sip....then began to feast.
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Roleplay from Usul Soul
Usul held up the glass vial, twisted it and studied the blood red liquid contained inside. Erasmus sat on the other side of the desk faced him with curiosity expressed of his face.
"Results of a recent experiment with the blood of the beasts, Usul?" Erasmus asked.
"No no my friend, this is something else, something I am unsure of" Usul replied, "This liquid is known as the juice of the Bloodmoon fruit"
"Bloodmoon? that is not something I have ever heard mentioned before"
"Ahh it is a ritualistic juice consumed by the followers of a religion on the Isle of Dwilight" Usul explained, "My brother sent it to me claiming it will show me enlightenment. He is such a fool!"
"What do you plan to do with it Usul?" Erasmus asked
"Well my friend, it is said to have rejuvinating properties in small doses. Much more will place a person into a trance state where they experience hallucigenic effects" Usul continued, "I wish not to play those silly games though"
Erasmus continued to listen with interest
"No no my friend" Usul continued to explain, "I wish to use it in my experiments, but first I need to see its effects"
Erasmus smiled "Lady Angela?"
"Indeed my friend" Usul confirmed with some expression of concern, "Lady Angela's situation is a huge misfortune for us and of our King. We need her back, and if we can help with this juice, then we will all benefit from her return"
With a wry grin, Usul then said "I would be most interested to study the results of this juice to maybe use in my future experiments with the blood of the beasts and texts from the Book of Zraath"
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Roleplay from Usul Soul
A militia guard of Arrmol approached, staggering, out of breath--with fear in his eyes.
Barely able to speak through breathlessness, the guard spoke "Chancellor, thank the Gods I have found you! Approaching...beasts of nowt I have seen before"
Usul ordered his captain to rally his men, then spoke to the militia guard "Come my friend, show me these unusual beasts, I am in need of a fresh harvest"
Lined up atop a hill, looking down, Usul tried to contain a fear he had not experienced for a long time. Charging towards them up the hillside were figures only ever spoke of in myths and legends. The men looked around at each other expressing the same confused stared as the next man. One man spoke "Snow Trolls?" Another then shouted "Snow Trolls!"
Trying to keep composure, Usul screamed out to his men "Lord Zraath is testing us! We must conquer these beasts to prove our worthiness within his temple!"
A few more confused looks continued at this absurd announcement. "Kill the beasts and bring me their flesh!" Usul cried out, "Charge!!"
With a loud roar of cheer, the armies of Cathay leapt and bore down on the fearless white fluffy giants.
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Usul had Sir Ladislav in his dungeons for the second time. 1st RP is from a while ago when Usul first had Ladislav in prison, 2nd RP is the most recent encounter.
Roleplay from Usul Soul
While you rot in your cell, Usul Soul, High Chancellor of Cathay, Duke of Lionwood, Margrave of Azros, visits you and says:
Ladislav!
It is your lucky day.
I am too busy to deal with you, and you have awful bad breath. I am feeling generous today, so I shall set you loose--But keep it quiet, I don't want people to think I am going soft.
You did not deliberately cross our borders to perform your acts, and your acts were upon a deserter of Cathay-- probably unbeknown to you at the time ha!
You have no possesions I wish for myself, so you are frankly a waste of my time.
Know one thing-- I shall not be so curtious if you should come back here from being disruptive in our lands.
My prison keeper Erasmus will release you and leave you outside in the gutter, after sunrise.
Roleplay from Usul Soul
While you rot in your cell, Usul Soul, High Chancellor of Cathay, Duke of Lionwood, Margrave of Azros, visits you and says:
*Prison keeper Erasmus slaps Ladislav across the face with his leather glove, and abruptly wakes him from the comfort of sleep*
Ladislav!
What are you doing in my dungeon again? What suspicious acts were you attempting to perform in Anacan?
Did I not make myself clear during our last encounter?
Speak now!
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Roleplay from Usul Soul
Hath a snake bit your tongue Ladislav my friend? Now drink up.
*Erasmus clentched Ladislav's chin with his bear sized grip, forced open his mouth and poured the thick black ooze from a silver chalice, causing the prisoner to choke and shudder whilst gasping for breath.
Whilst he poured, Usul chanted a ritual prayer to the Lord Zraath, keeper of the Temple of the Dark Sun
"...For you my children will be gifted with the harvest of my blood and body.
My beastly cattle will plague the lands. Those who tame and consume, shall find their place in my temple; Those who deny, shall succumb to the devastation of their sins...."
Ladislav was left on the floor of his cell, coughing whilst regaining his breath*
I will return tomorrow. Here, the kitchen maid sent down a meal for you.
*Usul slid a plate of cheese across the floor*
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Roleplay from Usul Soul
Prisoner Ladislav has sent you a letter:
I was captured by guards for doing nothing and that is a shame!
While you rot in your cell, Usul Soul, High Chancellor of Cathay, Duke of Lionwood, Margrave of Azros, visits you and says:
*"M'lord, what effect did you experience from consuming the blood of beast?" Erasmus questioned his Chancellor.
*"Ah my friend, for a shot time I was given the gift of foresight" Usul explained "albeit a somewhat blurry experience I must add"
*"So thats how you knew the ice demons would be back after the first elimination?"
*"Yes my friend" Usul replied "Do you see a pattern? The demons must also possess foresight, for they knew of the arrival of myself and Lady Angela"
*"Ahhh I understand" Erasmus said in realisation "What of our prisoner here Chancellor? The lower dungeons?"
*"Not so hasty my loyal companion, my experiments have not reached to that degree yet....but soon"
Ladislav, let me look at you.
How do you feel? What hath your dreams foretold?
Oh yes I almost forgot. My guards have been trained well indeed....perhaps too hastily though. You missed the opportunity to commit an offence this time, but I do know it was you who attempted the life of both Cathayan and Kindaran nobles a mere couple of weeks ago. I should remind you that a crime of such upon a person faces a maximum penalty of death. I cannot help myself but be gracious to you once again. I shall not be taking your head on this occasion.
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Usul and Erasmus continue with their experiments...
Roleplay from Usul Soul
Erasmus escorted usul to the lower dungeons. The stone slab had been moved aside; revealing the opening; and now Usul found himself decending the tight staircase once again, into the cold darkness.
Echoing cries could be heard bouncing off the walls; faintly at first, but grew louder as Usul continued to decend the stairwell. The cries became a conconction of growls, groans and hissing.
As Usul was led into the torchlit cave of the lower dungeons, he realised that his faithful Erasmus once again had not left him disappointed.
At usul's request, Erasmus had gone out into the night and retrieved for him, an undead foe--disabled of course. The Undead male had finally awoken to find himself imprisoned in a steel cage, whilst his captors stood and watched.
"Erasmus my friend" Usul pronounced, "Shall we begin?"
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An unexpected package arrives mysteriously on Usul's desk
Roleplay from Angela Windblack
As Usul returned from his (un)usual survey of the lower dungeons, a strange package and a small note awaited him in his secret office. A rather intriguing sight because Usul in general have never seen a package like this, bound tightly with some special fabric and giving off a faint but quite known smell. Also his close servants were forbidden to leave any gifts or other stuff in this room but it seemed that someone did it anyway.
"Erasmus forgot to tell me I guess...", Usul thought to himself, "Lets see what it contains!". With that he took out the pinned note a opened it.
//===BLANK===\
"Hmmm... This is quite suspicious but I know how to decipher it.", he turned over the note and warmed it over a light flame. Within seconds some text in a well known handwriting became visible.
Greetings, I know of your ventures in the deepest part of the dungeon as well as some clues on what you are trying to achieve. Lets just say I can help you in this so here is a present for you. Used quicklime to preserve her head and white death powder to keep the texture intact. Regardless, please finish any tasks fast or she would crumble to dust. And don't tell anyone of this or we shall both be burned in the stakes for necromancy.
With regards,
A.
With a grin on his face, Usul began caressing the package as if it was a very close loved one whispering, "Thank you for the gift A! A for Agony, A for. . . . ."
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Roleplay from Usul Soul
"...A for Agony?....Anger?....Audacious more likely!" Usul continued to ponder, "hmm...Angela? Audric? Armin?....No no it's not important at present."
He delicately peeled back the stained cloth linen to reveal the prize within. Unprepared for the shock, Usul lurched back into his chair which slid back along the stone floor almost tipping over. He had seen decapitated heads before, but rarely one so preserved with staring eyes which almost looked to still contain life.
Swiftly he re-covered the head with its wrap, scooped it up in his arms and hurried back down to the lower dungeon where Erasmus had remained with their caged creature.
"What progress Erasmus?" Usul asked as he emerged from the dark stairwell into the light of the dungeon.
The undead creature was sat cowered in the corner of the cage. Some small open wounds seeped blood, but the creature was quiet and obviously feared bringing attention to himself.
"It goes well indeed" Erasmus answered, "He is beginning to co-operate with us". Then upon noticing the wrapped object Usul carried in his arms, Erasmus asked curiously "May I ask what you carry upon you M'Lord?"
"Erasmus! I consider you my friend as well as my humble servant" Usul spoke, "Do I have your utmost loyaly? Can I trust you?"
"M'Lord!" Erasmus expressed whilst thrusting himself down to one knee, "I am your loyal vassal. You have my sword, my council....I will die for you my Chancellor!"
Usul handed him the note and explained the strange gift. "You know nothing of this Erasmus my friend?"
"It is not of my doing M'Lord" Erasmus explained, "I cannot know how any person has any knowledge of what we do down here, let alone knowing of the creature we have at present"
"Could it be true that there are others who know of the Book of Zraath?" Usul pondered out loud, "Could it be that others have discovered the gift of foresight and have seen the work we do here?"
Upon removing the cloth and revealing the head to Erasmus, with a curious look on his face, Erasmus asked "Does M'Lord know the identity of this particular head in question?".......
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Myself and Angela agreed on a poll being set up to allow the other players the choice of which direction this RP was to play out.
The choices were either the head of a Desire Demon, or the head of Maid Felicia. The realm voted overwhelmingly for the head to be of a Desire Demon.
And so the story continues.....
Roleplay from Usul Soul
....."It's not a question of who is it, but more a question of what is it?" Usul explained, "Look more closely".
Erasmus studied the female looking head more intensely, almost mesmerized by her smooth skin which showed absolutely no signs of decomposition.
"What do you think?" Usul asked.
Erasmus didn't reply, was still and motionless, locked and entranced by the gaze of those glistening eyes staring back at him.
"Erasmus?", still he stared in silence ".....ERASMUS!" Usul yelled, before throwing the drape over the head and wrenching it away, breaking the mysterious connection that had occured. Erasmus stumbled back slighty, then regained his composure "Ugh.. M'lord? What happened?"
"I am not sure my friend. I must find out what this cursed thing is" Usul stated, "You may find me in the lectern chamber. I must refer to The Book. I remember gazing upon references to unique mythical creatures such as this one. Haste is of importance right now!". With that statement, Usul swiftly left the dungeon and disappeared up the dark stairwell before Erasmus had any chance to speak another word.
Roleplay from Usul Sou
Usul hurried into the chamber, placed the head at the foot of the lectern and rushed around lighting the wall mounted torches and the candle on his desk in the corner. He picked up the heavy burden from the lectern and placed it on his desk with a thud. Immediately he sat down and begun sifting through the pages desperately seeking the information regarding mythical creatures.
"Snow trolls....Golems....Phoenix....Wyvern...." he muttered to himself as he continued his search, "...Ahh demons!...Frost demons...Fire demons....hmm Desire demon?"
-
Roleplay from Usul Soul
Erasmus quietly entered the chamber. Usul took a moment to peer up from the ancient texts to notice the look of disappointment expressed by Erasmus's long face.
"What ails you my friend?" Usul asked with concern.
"I have been unable to make further progress with our creature in the cage"
"Ok, we can deal with that issue later" Usul replied, "Come, sit with me"
Erasmus pulled out a chair and sat beside his Chancellor. "This is interesting, take a look", Usul slid the book across and pressed his finger upon a paragraph, indicating the source of interest. Erasmus began to read. "A Desire Demon?" he queried, "That fits the description". He continued reading.
Desire Demon:
Witnesses unfortunate enough to encounter this rare human-like creature experience a lack of self control. A desire demon possesses the magic of mind manipulation often at the cost of the person in contact with it. Little is know of this creature and is advised that any person should avoid an encounter by any means possible....
"How is it that our mysterious friend 'A' managed to encounter such a beast, let alone slay one!?" Erasmus spoke out with surprise.
"Indeed, our friend 'A' is as much a mystery as a Desire Demon itself"
Erasmus pondered for a moment, then with an expression of excitement "Usul, do you still have stored some of that curious Bloodmoon Juice!?"
"I have but a few small drops left, yes" He replied, "What of it?"
"Come M'Lord! Bring it, and the head, down to the lower dungeon....I have an idea!"
-
Roleplay from Usul Soul
All was quiet as Usul and Erasmus entered the lower dungeon. The undead creature was curled up at the back of the cage, sleeping. The glass vial of bloodmoon juice made a gentle sounding *clink* as Usul placed it down upon a raised stone slab, which echoed throughout the dungeon, startling the creature. The creature jumped up and immediately thrust its body against the iron bars at the front of the cage. With arm outstreched through the bars, hand and fingers flung open, the creature spoke a hissing sound, followed by a gently calming growl.
"Its asking for food" erasmus explained. He continued "I have not been able to train it any further than this. All we have thus far, is essentially a dog"
The creature began to whimper, having not recieved the attention it requested.
"What is your idea Erasmus?" Usul asked, "You have always had this annoying habit of keeping me in the dark!"
"Every pet needs feeding M'Lord. So perhaps maybe we should feed it"
Roleplay from Usul Soul
Seperated from it's undead collective, the creature became simply an empty walking carcass--without goal or purpose.
'A clean page' Usul had described.
Now late in the evening on the second day; since feeding the caged creature a concoction of blood and flesh of the beast, with a few drops of Bloodmoon Juice for light seasoning; the creature awoke from its trance-like state. After two full sleepless days and nights, the High Chancellor Usul and his faithful dungeon keeper Erasmus finally watched in anticipation for the results of their work......
-
Roleplay from Usul Soul
The creature sat upright againt the back of the cage, looked curiously around whilst Usul and Erasmus looked on. The creatures eyes glistened with seemingly new life. Upon noticing his onlookers, he scowled then spoke "Yhooou, why I here? hssss!"
Usul and Erasmus stared at one another, both expressing wry grins.
The undead creature then leapt up, grabbed and rattled the bars ferrociously "Me out, me out! Cuuurse!"
Roleplay from Usul Soul
Usul had left Erasmus to continue working on undead creature. To Usul's surprise, the Bloodmoon Juice; a ritualistic elixir used by the followers of a cult on the Isle of Dwilight; had taken hold of the creature and yanked its mind to some distant place. Upon returning, the creature clearly had possessed a newly born awareness of its own existance.
Now three days later, Erasmus summoned his Chancellor to return to the lower dungeon. He had announced his readiness to begin a new phase--This time involving the mysterious head of the Demon, sent by the mysterious stranger simply known as 'A'.
-
Roleplay from Usul Soul
With the newfound awareness instilled into the undead creature, Erasmus had worked for days teaching it new skills, inflicting punishment and rewards for failures and successes. the creature was given a name--Usaath
Usaath responded contently to his new given name, but still acted unpredictably on occasion. Very pleased at the results Erasmus had achieved, Usul encouraged him to continue with his next phase. Erasmus picked up, and uncovered the head of the demon, approached the cage and urged Usaath the look. "What this?" Usaath asked as he moved closer to get a better look.
Erasmus thrust the head forward and watched as Usaath caught sight of the gazing eyes and bacame motionless and entranced.
With Usaath's mind now ripped open, Erasmus and Usul began issuing commands and statements.
-
Roleplay from Usul Soul
"....And this passage I find very interesting, Take a look...." Usul pointed out. He was entertaining a guest when a knock at the door echoed through the lectern chamber. He arose from his chair and proceded to the door. Upon opening the chamber door, he was faced with faithful Erasmus, and beside him Usaath. Usaath although somewhat an ugly character appeared more human-like that Usul had previously noticed.
"Master, how may me serve?" Usaath spoke out
Usul grinned "Go Usaath, to the lower dungeon and prepare it for action. I may be expecting a guest"
Roleplay from Usul Soul
Usaath, quickly departed to do his masters bidding.
"Erasmus, you have exceded your services to me again" Usul admitted, "I am indeed indebted to you. He looks almost human, how so?"
"M'lord, the letter from 'A'" Erasmus explained, "It described in detail the methods of preservation. I simply adapted those methods to improve the flesh of your new servant"
"Very well. Come my friend, I wish you to meet someone" Usul announced, "I have been speaking to some of the construction crew. I have been approached by this man who seems to have a great interest in our teachings."
"Those lazy donkeys'! They could do with some discipline"
"I shall see to it" Usul replied, "For now though, I have another task in mind...."
-
Usul had one last use for the demonic head given to him by the mysterious 'A'
After having groomed his 'guest' for several weeks, his guest was ready for a sermon to bring him into the 'Temple of the Black Sun'. Unfortunately for him, Usul had another idea.
Roleplay from Usul Soul
During one of his expedition strolls around his City of Azros, Usul had approached and got talking with a construction worker supervisor leaning against a stone block, casually watching his men toiling in the hot midday sun. For two hours, Usul conversed with the superviser, cleverly practicing his persuasive skills on the young man of giant stature.
Now after several weeks of many discussions with Usul, the construction worker found himself once again sat with Usul in the lectern chamber, deeply interested in the teachings of the Book of Zraath. As requested, Erasmus had arrived with the head of the demon concealed beneath the red silken cloth.
"Are you ready my friend?" Usul asked the construction worker. He answered Yes with an enthusiastic nod, unaware of what this particular sermon truly involved.
Uncooked fresh meat was served on a silver platter and silver challices filled with the Blood of Beast followeed. And so the ritualistic sermon began....
After an hour using their various shamanistic techniques, their victim lay in a docile state of trance. This was the moment the demon head was unsheathed before him. To Usul's surprise, he noticed the head in a state of decay. Erasmus, noticing his Chancellors observation stated "We have not long M'lord. We better make this quick!"
Erasmus held the head as they began minipulating the mind of their unsuspecting victim, whilst the head crumbled between his fingers.
When Erasmus's hands were empty and a pile of fine dust lay at his feet, he asked "Do you think we had enough time, Usul?"
"We can only hope my friend, let's hope" Usul replied, "Ok Erasmus, do it!"
Zraathen--the new name given and instilled in to the mind of their victim--fell down unconsious from a swift blow to the head with a club. Tied up and a hood placed over his head, Erasmus dragged him out of the chamber, summoned assistance from the guards and transported him to the docks.
Zraathen was now on his way to the newly arisen War Islands of the South.
-
Zraathen awoke on the War Island in the realm of Taselak (If I decide to continue the RP's of Zraathen, I will create seperate thread for him)
Roleplay from Zraathen Soul
Zraathen awoke opon the stony floor of his bed chamber.
He lunged out uncontrollably into empty space before eventually gaining composure and pulled himself up from the floor.
His mind blank--He knew nothing of where he was, or how he had become to be; in this unfamiliar room adorned with gold and silver decor worthy of none but of a noble person. Most strangely of all, he could recall no memory of who he was. He beat his hairy chest with one hefty thud to determine if it was a dream. He did not wake from his nightmare.
He held his throbbing head whilst he looked into a full length mirror, eloquently decorated with a polished silver border. Staring back at him was a heavily muscular figure as least six and a half feet tall--and naked. He was a large hairy beast of a man, but no hair could mask the large unusul tattoo inscribed upon his chest.
Banging his head with the palms of his hand, Zraathen roared out in sheer frustration "ARRRGHHH....!" before thrusting a boulder fist into the mirror, spraying shards of glass in all directions.
Roleplay from Zraathen Soul
The eyes!
All Zraathen could see in his minds eye were those eyes!
Try as he might, he could not conjure up any memory from before the moment he awoke on that cold stony floor. He felt a yearning, some purpose, but could not determine what it was that drove this feeling.
The hooting of an owl from outside the open window, indicated to him that it must still be the middle dark hours of night. Zraathen decided to sleep on it.
Perhaps this is a dream and I will wake from it soon
Roleplay from Zraathen Soul
The night was filled with dreams--Visions of symbols, blood and monster flesh. Zraathen tossed and turned all night, not quite sleeping, yet not awake. At one point during the night he awoke from an intense dream and had got out of bed, only to then wake yet again and get out of bed for a second time--Dreams within dreams?
Memories came back to him. Memories of a sermon, of two figures draped in red and black robes, chanting and offering silver chalices of blood--Then the eyes!
The deep feeling of purpose returned. It's a test! he recalled
Knock knock! a tap at the door.
Zraathen approched the door, still naked, and opened it. A maid stood there, gasped with embarrassment, then spoke "M'lord! welcome to Taselak. We have been looking forward to your arrival M'lord" she announced, "You were pretty drunk last night when your friends dropped you off"
"I have no friends!" Zraathen blurted out angrily
"A package for you M'lord" the maid struggling with the heavy burden, offered it to Zraathen, wrapped in a red silk cloth.
Zraathen accepted the package then closed the door.
Upon sliding back the silk cloth to reveal the object within, he became overwhelmed with that inner sense of purpose and realised a deep connection with the book which lay before him. The symbol on the cover matched that which was inscribed upon his chest. The book, he realised was a copy of the partially translated Book of Zraath.
He began to realise his purpose.
-
Ladislav returned again to cause mischief and was caught attempting to assasinate the General...
Roleplay from Usul Soul
Visit
"Erasmus, whats that smell? It seems familiar"
"There M'Lord. You have a guest" Erasmus pointed to the newly occupied cell.
"Ladislav!" Usul cried out, "What are doing here?"
Usul reads the report
"You are herby charged with the attempted assasination of General Willhelm of Cathay. You are also charged with previous attempts of.......blah blah..."
"This is your chance now to give me a reason why I should not execute you. Answer quickly, your time is short"
Roleplay from Usul Soul
Visit
Ladislav this is your lucky day. I am not going to torture you or execute you. This is a shame because there are many who have already made their claims for several of your body parts. I could have made quite some gold.
Instead you are going to a far away place. If I see you here again I will not hesitate to kill you my friend. Why I am so curteous to you I cannot say, I should have killed you long ago.
If you happen to see my Brother Logar on Dwilight, tell him I sent him a gift, he is deserved of a filthy rat like you.
*A hood is placed over his head and Ladislav is dragged out of the cell and taken to the docks...*
-
When Sir Cael was caught as an infiltrator, he was intoxicated through the heavy use of magic fungi. Was his crime intentional? or was he truly posessed by demon mushrooms who made him do it?
You are the reader, you can choose to believe whatever you want :)
Letter from a prisoner
Prisoner Cael has sent you a letter:
These cells could really use a cushion or two...
Visit
Erasmus entered the cell with a comfortable looking red silk cushion in his hand. He pushes Cael to the ground, kneels over him and forces the cushion over his face, smothering him whilst Cael twitched uncontrollably beneath the weight. Erasmus released him moments before unconciousness set in causing Cael to gasp and cough in horror.
"Traitors are not lavished with the comforts of regular prisoners. Do not disturb the Chancellor again!"
As Erasmus turned to leave the cell with the cushion in hand, he slides a plate of cheese across the floor "Here, keep your strength up, it will allow you to wriggle in your noose for much longer"
Letter from a prisoner
Prisoner Cael has sent you a letter:
While the man was leaning over Cael, he felt thankful that they had not thought to shackle his feet, for whatever reason. He managed to kick the man soundly in the crotch, but it did not receive much response.
Was this judge in truth a man, or someone masquerading as one?!
Visit
Erasmus locked the cell door behind him, stared through the bars at Cael picking himself from the floor, exhausted. Not a word was spoken for several moments as they both glared at each other. The silence was broken when Erasmus offered an evil grin whilst his face took on a strange composure. His features changed slightly morphing into a strange expression: cheek bones sunk, eyes wide taking on a bloodshot appearance and veins throbbing boldy "May the Lord Zraath show no mercy to the sinful!"
Moments after his announcement Erasmus's demon/humanlike features returned to a pure human state as he turned and left to report to Chancellor Usul that the prisoner had been silenced and fed.
Prisoner escaped
Cael has vanished from his cell in Anacan! The guards are being questioned and witnesses searched, but it is likely that he has already left the city.
Letter from Cael of Burgundy
High Chancellor,
I must admit that I was sorely confused...I had sought to assassinate a Sorrainian...and somehow lost my way in the dark. I will have to lay off those mushrooms that I recently found...I send my apologies. There is nothing that could convince me to fight against those fighting against Zonasa.
Cael of Burgundy
-
After leaving Battlemaster for some time, I have returned and continued my old characters.
Usul returned to find Cathay and the Far East continent sunk, so emigrated to Beluaterra. He joined Gotland, a tyranny realm.
And so the Trials and Tribulations of Usul's Life continues...
The estate of Steelhead where Usul now resided consisted of a moderately sized manorhouse with a small outhouse building which could barely be considered as the stable; housing just 4 steeds at best. The meadows surrounding the house within its stone border were ferociously overgrown with tall grasses and brambles-- a wasteland.
Perfect! Usul thought.
"What a boghole!" Erasmus chortled out loud.
"Erasmus, go into the local hamlets and round up some workers" Usul ordered, "...I'm feeling generous today, offer them a small daily wage and a free meal"
"As you wish M'Lord" Erasmus obeyed
" I want this place to be bare within 3 days".
Stood atop of the hill overlooking his estate, Usul watched as his peasant workforce continued to clear the overgrown scrub down to bare soil. Erasmus approached from behind and stood next to his Master.
"Bread and broth seems to be a rather effective currency" Erasmus commented.
"Indeed my loyal friend, they are scavengers these filthy animals" Usul replied, "Any news of the whereabouts of Usaath?"
"No news yet M'Lord, the creature is still rather evasive. Although I have heard reports that an person of his description has debarked from a ship on this very continent"
"That is well Erasmus, I shall summon him soon enough if he has lost his way."
Erasmus began to walk away, paused then returned
"Ahh M'Lord there is one more thing" Erasmus reported, " One of the workers has stumbled upon something interesting. I believe we have found a suitable location"
"Ahh excellent Erasmus!" Usul congratulated, "Take me to it..."
-
During his time in Gotland, Usul and the rest of the continent learned of the Daemon Lord Akkan, who had made himself present on the continent and began to unleash his wrath upon man.
"Erasmus my friend come on in"
Erasmus entered, approached the desk and stood tall, looking down upon Usul. Eyes fixated upon one anothers, they stared as if speaking without words.
"I know that look Usul" Erasmus stated, "It's time isn't it?"
"Yes my friend it's time" Usul replied.
Usul motioned Erasmus to the altar which supported the huge bulk-- that being the ancient Book of Zraath, gifted to him the day he and Erasmus had met back in the days of old Cathay.
Erasmus read the passage than was being shown, and understood. The passage contained scriptures describing in detail of a demon, once a servant of the Dark Lord Zraath himself. It went on to explain how the demon had attained a degree of power before betraying the Dark Lord. The demon was known by the name of Arkan-- and he failed to bring down the riegn of Zraath.
"This figure who has threatened this island...he goes by the name of Akkan, does he not?" Erasmus questioned
"You see the similaritiy as I do" Usul replied, "It could be him..."
They both stared again at each other intensely...
"Then we must find him!" Erasmus boldy announced.
Usul then summoned Erasmus to the window where he looked out upon his estate.
He waved his hand out in a sweeping motion whilst describing what he saw. "Look there!" he yelled, "goats everywhere!" pointing out the flocks of goats scattered across the barren land surrounding the manor. "We cleared the fields bare! Soil is all that remains, so why do they still come?"
Unable to contain his amusement Erasmus replied with an uncontrollable chuckle "I..I don't know m'lord", then bowed his head to resist the humour.
"Look!, they are all looking at me as if they plot some evil deed against me!" Usul bellowed. He picked up a vase and launched it out of the window at a goat below smashing to pieces on the ground when the goat stepped aside to avoid it. "Bleeeh...!" came a yell from the goat, clearly directed at Usul.
When that moment had passed Usul pulled his attention away from the window and walked back to his desk and sat.
"If this Akkan character truly is the Demigod Arkan, he could be the key to fulfilling the prophesy of the all powerful Zraath" Usul continued to debate.
"Then we must get close to him and find out his purpose-- to know whether to embrace him...or KILL him!" Erasmus expressed "Where are we to go from here, M'lord?" he asked.
"The closest contact to this supposed false god Akkan... Spearhold!" Usul replied.
-
It was decided that they needed to meet the Daemon Lord Akkan face to face. After Usul sent a letter to his Vice-Marshal Thesseus explaining his need to leave, he orderd Erasmus to prepare for their departure to Spearhold-- The realm loyal to Akkan.
"Pack our things Erasmus, we need to move out" Usul commanded, "Oh and slay a couple of them evil goats from my lawn, we need some food for the journey ahead"
"What of the monster flesh in the stores?"
"They are rotten, offer them to the local peasants" Usul replied, "They will be thankful"
"As you wish M'Lord" Erasmus obeyed, Then turned to leave.
"I will do the honour of addressing the council before I leave" Usul called out, halting Erasmus in his tracks. Erasmus turned and announced "Ummm I forgot to mention M'Lord....Here is a letter from the Whip-Master...It seems that the Vice-Marshal has made accusations of treachery and treason against you. You are already being called to Council!"
Aghast! Usul slammed his fist on the desk causing the inkwell to spill, running, drip drip upon his lap. "Dammit! I should have known better that to send him that letter...The young lad has a wild imagination and thinks me now a demon. Continue to make preparations for our departure Erasmus, I shalt prepare to meet Council."
-
Usul had been summoned to Council to defend his actions against the accusations set upon him by Vice-Marshal Thesseus. He went to face the music, whilst Erasmus packed and prepared for their departure.
The accuser Vice-marshal Thesseus, and the accused Marshal Usul enter the chanber and take to thier pedestals in front of the Council.
After the accusations were read out to him, Usul spoke out his defence
Council!
I place my hand to my chest and wish to announce that much of what Vice-Marshal Thesseus hath stated is true.
However, there are some other rather important statements which have either been confused, or are simply untrue. I shalt continue...
It is true that I worship an ancient deity.
It is true that I have in possession a book of notable importance, possibly even written by the hand of Zraath himself. Dangerous? Surely that is a matter of opinion and shouldn't be based on pure assumption.
It is true that I seek the Akkan figure known to have arrived on this island and threatens the existence of man.
It is also true that to begin my journey, I plan to mingle amongst the people of Spearhold.
Untrue I am a demon.
Untrue I arrived here in Gotland for evil purposes.
Untrue I plan to set demons upon Gotland once taking up residence in Spearhold.
Untrue I am a traitor to the nobility of Gotland.
I present to the Council, a copy of the very letter I sent to the Vice-Marshal. Fire paper is rather time costly and time consuming to produce, so of course I have a written draft copy. Although a draft, it is word for word accurate to the final copy sent to Thesseus. I welcome him to confirm this.
Letter from Usul Soul
(Personal message to Thesseus Polytus)
Vice-Marshal Thesseus,
I write to you to explain my intentions. You at least deserve that honour, for those I leave behind will look to you for command... or perhaps not as will be more likely the case. This unruly bunch of goats seem to relish the idea of running around without order. Neither of us have been in Gotland for very long; you yourself joined here a very short time after myself. I came to these lands after the destruction and sinking of the island I once belonged. I had high hopes for Gotland and hoped that in will be a permanent place of residence for me. Alas! it is not so.
A demon named Arkan was once a servant to the Dark Lord Zraath, according to the ancient scriptures written in the Book of Zraath currently resting upon my alter. The name Arkan bears a coincidental ressemblance to the new evil that hath been born on this island, by the name of Akkan. Arkan betrayed Zraath and the Black Sun Temple and I now wonder if this Akkan figure is this very betrayer. I must find this out! for it may be my opportunity to gain closer access to the Dark Lord himself that is Zraath.
Whether I embrace this Akkan, or I shalt slay him remains to be seen. The next part of my long journey is Spearhold.
This message was written on the paper of fire and will errupt in flames once read.
I wish you much luck young Marshal!
Usul Soul
Knight of Gethsemene
Marshal of the Goathorde
Council,
the idea that I came here with ill-intent is propostrous! Where from my words of the letter can one gain that assumption. It is true that I had hoped to make permanent residence here, but unfortunately Gotland cannot not offer me all that I seek. I can assure the Council though, that during my time here, I have performed my duties as one would expect. My intentions have always been for the good and benefit of the realm and its people...that nobody can deny.
On that particular basis, where does the accusation of treachery and treason fit in. It doesn't!
Can the Council not see from my letter that I sent it in good faith? notifying the Vice-Marshal of my intentions so that he may be more prepared for his own duties.
M'Lords and Ladies, Thessius is young and can be forgiven for his naivety and over-imagination. I hold no ill thoughts against him, for he is yet to experience many more fearful things than a simple burning letter. The accusations strewn at my feet bears no weight, no more weight than an accusation against Thesseus; that he might be a spy for Akkan.
If I may be forgiven for being blunt-- It truly matters not whether the Council considers me for banishment or not, I shalt be leaving regardless. This hearing only contributes to delaying my departure.
I simply request the Council to consider this: When I meet Akkan face to face, there will likely be one of two possible outcomes...Akkan will be slain, or I will be slain. If I am slain, Akkan still lives, and man will be no better nor worse off. If Akkan is slain, man can guarantee its existence will continue for a while longer.
I urge the Council to conclude this hearing swiftly, there are far more important matters at hand.
-
Usul waited patiently for the Councils response to his defence. After much time had elapsed still without a response, he then became impatient.
..... They spoke amongst themselves.
Usul faced the Vice-Marshal who sat on an identical pedestal directly opposite, the other side of the hall. The Council members sat upon a balcony at the farthest end, looking down into the chamber at their accused and accuser. Following Usul's opening statement; the Council members now with backs turned; debated and discussed the words they had heard.
..... The low sounds of murmuring from the balcony continued.
Day turned to night as the last of the evenings golden light slowly faded to dusk. A maid entered the chamber, moved fluidly without sound and begun giving life to the night lanterns. They filled the chamber with their orange glow casting flickering shadows upon the walls. Usul now tired and drained, drifted off into an awakened sleep. Mesmerised by the dancing shadows, he pictured each distinguishable shadow and imagined them each a character in a scene. The scene was of a battle at the walls of Old Cathay, a moving scene of flickering shadows and imagination brought life to cherished memory as it played out in his mind.
He jolted uncontrollably when he realised he was drifting into sleep. Thesseus opposite yawned, then gave himself a gentle slap to the face in an almost fruitless attempt to keep awake.
.... Yet they continued to debate in whispering tones.
When Usul awoke again, the morning light of dawn had filled the chamber. The maid entered again. With the same graceful movements as the previous evening, she begun extinguishing the night lanterns before opening a window. A cool gentle breeze could be felt, carrying with it the smell of early morning meadow. The standard dawn chorus began of the goats bleating. First a few, then a few more...until all herds of goats could be heard yelling in their droning exodus of Bleeeeehs!
The sound awoke Thesseus. From bent over, he thrust himself upright; looked around in a panic, left, right, up, down, left and right again; then realised. He slowed his heavy breathing and composed himself. After rubbing his eyes, then run fingers through his hair, he looked up at Usul opposite. Usul grinned. The Vice-Marshal frowned, then shot his gaze to the balcony.
Movement of hand gestures could be seen, whilst shockingly the councillors were still debating quietly.
Thesseus turned to Usul again, who simply shrugged his shoulders gesturing his own bewilderment.
Suddenly Usul smirked. Thesseus pondered the meaning of Usul's sudden amusement. Then realised what was about to happen. He watched Usul get out of his chair elegently without sound, placed his Marshals drape upon the place where he had sat. Usul climbed down from the pedestal, looked at Thesseus and offered a friendly nod and gentle bow, before tip toeing quietly through the chamber door that the maid had left ajar....Usul was gone.
-
Now having left the realm of Gotland (land of the goats), Usul crossed the border to join the nobles of Spearhold. To join the Brotherhood of Spearhold, one is required to offer a sacrifice of a goblet of blood to the Daemon Akkan himself. This was Usuls chance to meet the Daemon face to face, to determine if it may be friend or foe to the almighty Zraath-- The ancient deity that Usul worships.
Erasmus entered Usul's quarters and made the announcement "Our presence is required at the temple Usul...He has arrived"
"That is well my friend. Did you obtain my blood?" Usul replied
"Indeed I have. There are still bodies of beasts scattered around daisha, I did not have to look far"
"Excellent, prepare the ritual" Usul urged.
Usul stood at the alter looking down upon an open page of the book; where it rested. Erasmus ofered the silver chalise containing the blood of the beasts; Usul gracefully recieved.
He placed his hand upon the self-inscribed scarred symbol upon his chest; The symbol carved so many years ago, yet still unhealed; and began whispering a mantra in an ancient tongue. Erasmus joined in until both whispered in harmony. They stopped abruptly, followed instantly with the consumption of the blood until chalice was was bare.
At that moment, blood oozed fron the scar on his chest...
When the ritual was over they prepared theselves for the visit to the temple to offer their blood and servitude to 'He that IS'
Together they marched towards the temple, Usul and his loyal guard and friend Erasmus. As they marched Erasmus looked down upon his master and recognised how fragile he looked remembering those first days when they had met in Cathay. They had both been through so much since then.
Erasmus considered What would have become of Usul had I not shown him the book?
They arrived at the temple entrance to be met by guards blocking their entrance. A temple guardian approached and announced "Usul Soul?....You are late!. You had better pray that he is not angered, for he hath left temporary on another task. Come back when he returns. Be gone for now!"
Usul cursed "For the love of....!"
At that moment a messenger arrived handing a letter to Erasmus. He read.
"M'Lord, your presence is required by the army"
They turned about, and as they were walking away, Usul caught the eye of a young girl loitering outside of the temple; looking rather suspicious as she pretended not to see them whilst twidling with her hair. Erasmus spotted the character too, then looked at Usul with a quizzical frown...
-
After missing his first opportunity to meet the Daemon Lord Akkan, Usul and Erasmus was sure not to be late at the next opportunity.
"Usul! He's here!" Erasmus charged into the tent and announced the arrival of Akkan.
After a small ritual including feasting upon the Blood of Beast, Usul and his personal guard Erasmus prepared to meet Him face to face and offer their servitude to 'He that IS'. The self-inscribed tattoo upon Usul's chest once again began to weep.
When they arrived, the Portal Temple guardians who now accompanied Akkan came forth and handed a goblet to each of them. They waited their turn whilst several other knights of the realm offered their sacrifices before them. Their turn came and they stepped forward to present themselves to Akkan.
Usul stared up to the majestic beastly daemon who stood before them. Overcome with awe, Usul stood motionless for a momenet whilst the towering figure waited paitently for the sacrifice to be made.
Erasmus nudged Usul and whispered "So that is him is it? He's not as tall as I was expecting"
Usul shot a stern gaze towards Erasmus "Now is not the time for comedy! Now fall in line!". Erasmus obeyed.
Usul took a step forward. "For you, I pledge my servitude". He unsheathed his silver ceremonial dagger. "You are the all seeing, all knowing" he contined, "You are my guide. I therefore have no need for this....". With that statement, Usul inserted the dagger into his eye socket and began to scallop. He yelled with pain, blood sparayed and oozed down his arms. Shakily he continued to carve whilst dropping to his knees. The pain was excruciating, he did not know if he could complete the task before passing out. The pain ceased, was overcome with giddiness as he felt himself close to passing out. Erasmus approached and took the blade from the quivering hand, and completed the task for his master leaving him unconcious in a heap on the floor.
Erasmus stepped forward with the dagger. He glared into the eyes of the Daemon without expression and without words. For several moments he simply stared. He then thrust the dagger fully through his wrist allowing his unusually dark blood to drain, filling the goblet below. He continued to stare without a flinch of pain. When the goblet was sufficiently full; and without breaking his gaze; he pulled the dagger out and licked the blade clean before resheathing it. Now he picked up both goblets; one with an eye floating within; and placed them at the feet of Akkan.
Erasmus stepped back; stared once more into the eyes of the Daemon looking down upon him; gently bowed and turned. He picked up Usul's unconcious body with one hand, threw him over his shoulder and casually strolled away without looking back.
Roleplay from Akkan
Akkan had accepted a variety of knights' goblets, as Usul and Erasmus approached. Proceeding with their antics, Akkan made a clicking sound all the while. Usul proceeding first, Akkan watched, unamused. Erasmus next, Akkan, watched him leave without moving. Sampling Erasmus's blood hesitantly, he drank perhaps a fifth before recoiling, then lashing out at the goblet, throwing it to a distant quarter. He didn't neglect to gather the remaining blood from the air before it fell to the ground though. An intense wave of heat accompanied the thrown goblet. Storming away, Usul's goblet was untouched.
Amongst the foul sound of Akkan's shouting, a cross between the roars of tiger and crocodile, was heard the names Usul and Erasmus
It seems that Akkan may have taken a disliking to Erasmus in particular...
-
man, usul is perhaps crazier then Thesseus....
And Erasmus stupider then the goats that graze gotland.
Thinking he could fool a deamon!
-
No no, those goats are not stupid.... They are evil... evil I tell ya :o
Erasmus though, now he's a mystery. I havn't quite worked him out yet ;D
I would guess, that he is far smarter than Usul though, perhaps he has been minipulating Usul the whole time... who knows ;)
-
Erasmus with his own hands had formed an eye patch from skin of the Beasts. Skin from beasts, being far tougher than leather, required intricate work to scribe and carve out the image of an eye on the outer face. The recess was then filled with molten silver to form its clear image. In place over Usul's empty eye socket, it offered an air of mysterious intimidation; the illusion that never ceased its following gaze upon its onlookers.
Usul requested the attention of Erasmus to study the healing of the wound.
Upon lifting the patch he reported "M'lord, it is but one full day and the wound is already fully healed..."
"Excellent my friend. Now lets get back to some important matters..."
-
It seems that Usul has finally gained the trust of the Brothers of Spearhold. He has been rewarded by being appointed the judge/Arbiter position.
He was most pleased when he recieved a new prisoner-- Pale Whiteblood, an infiltrator who had been causing some trouble in recent times.
Usul
While you rot in your cell, Usul Soul, Arbiter of Spearhold, Knight of Firbalt visits you and says:
Pale rat! I am your new Judge -- Arbiter Usul. Stand up when I address you!
Erasmus; Usul's prison guard; strolls over to the prisoner and stands momentarily, towering over him. He firmly clasps the prisoner beneath the chin with one hand and thrusts him up upon his feet. He then takes one step back and knocks the prisoner back down onto the cold stony floor, from a single lash to the face with his black studded leather glove.
What have you to say regarding your crimes? Filthy animal!
Prisoner Pale Whiteblood
Pale slowly raises his hand and wipes the bit of blood from his face with his fingers and brushes it off on his pant leg. Sitting back down, Pale leans against the wall and closes his eyes, ignoring the guard and his master.
Usul
Erasmus looked to Usul for a command-- Usul returned the look, smiled ever so gently, and ordered with a simple nod. Erasmus approached the prisoner Pale and again picked him up with one single grasp. The giant prison guard placed Pale into a choke hold whilst lifting him from the floor. Pale writhed and kicked his legs frantically is a desperate attempt to break free-- his face turning blue...
Did Garrett not inform you of the letter I sent to all Justicers of the island? I guess not...Thus I can forgive you for your ignorance. Here, let me read it to you:
Message sent to the Judges of Beluaterra (10 recipients)
Servers of Justice,
Harbinger Vasik, the seer of truth, prophet of 'He That Is', has appointed me as Arbiter of the realm.
I let it be known to all: I shalt deal justice; swift and sharp; to any infiltrator or saboteur who enters our lands will ill intent. No mercy will be shown by me.
That is all.
For Truth.
Usul Soul
Arbiter of Spearhold
As soon as the necessary mundane paperwork is complete ,you shalt be banished from these lands!.
Return, and be made an example of. Your tongue will be the first piece to disect, I am interested to know why it failed to work.
Erasmus released his hold and allowed the prisoner to clump upon the floor gasping for breath.
Then the slippery rat escaped!
Prisoner escaped!
Pale has fled your dungeons. The guards are being questioned, but from the evidence, it seems as if he found a secret passage that even you didn't know about.