IC Posts
Disturbance in Apriciele Square
Posted by Orien
OOC Date: 6/10/2002
IC Date: 1/24/1178
Area: Avanne
Some will say it was expected, some will call it a shame, and some will say it's the god's will.
A Vesperan priestess, in the plain robes of an acolyte, was accosted and beaten by a group of men last night. While the young woman appears to have lived, after her assailants were chased off by the fortuitous arrival of the City Guard, those who witnessed her being taken back to the Vesperan grounds all agree that she looked much the worse for wear. Her robes were torn badly, and her features were heavily battered. The leader of the patrol that rescued the woman said only that the matter would be taken care of, and offered no other words of reassurance to the small crowd gathered near the alleyway where her screams emanated from.
Is this a prelude to greater unrest, or simply a random event perpetrated by young men with too much unmixed wine?
News out of Kuredin
Posted by Hebat
OOC Date: 6/10/2002
IC Date: 1/24/1178
Area: Castana
The constant flow of traders from Kuredin to Castana and back again brings gossip and news to those Kuredin now residing in Castana. There is the usual stories of feuds among the tribes, who's poet was most successful during the latest festival and how much the price of rare goods as risen or fallen but it is the news from the Sultan's palace in the city of Egish-Nugal that has sparked conversation in most ports and has been the focus of many dinner parties and other social gatherings.
If the news is to be believed, the Sultan's daughter was kidnapped from her private chambers. Certainly a feat thought to be impossible, giving the security around the palace, but the royal family has finally admitted that their daughter has indeed disappeared. Members of the Shar'ur have been publically executed for allowing this to happen, and it is said a few of the girl's personal servants were other killed. There has been no requests of ransom as of yet, at least none have been publically mentioned, and only gossip serves as leads. Some say she's been taken by one of the desert tribes while others say she was taken east of Kuredin itself as a slave.
There has been a noticable increase in security around the palace in Castana even though no threats have been mentioned. However, those coming from Kuredin mention that there was no warning in this kidnapping either. Better to be prepared, as the scholars say.
News in Esharra
Posted by Hebat
OOC Date: 6/10/2002
IC Date: 1/24/1178
Area: Castana
While the news from foreign lands is greatly appreciated, it is the news at home that is usually of much more import. There is the everyday conversations about the rising price of Avannais wine, or the quality of Vicenan marble, but such topics of conversation are little more than idle chatter in the marketplace.
The topic of constant concern is that of the Sultan Jamal ibn Shahir. There are whispers from the superstitous that he has betrayed Lumah in some fashion, or perhaps even Enzu and Hebat for it appears he will die without an heir. The topic has been a constant concern since he took the throne, especially since his family is shinking with each generation. He has no sons to rule over the other cities in Castana, he must rely on his cousins and extended family to see that they are ruled justly and under the mandates of Kuredin law.
Many blame it on his devotion to his wife, who has given birth to five children, all who were stillborn or died shortly after birth. Many years ago he should have put her aside, but there is a love between them that many consider a detriment to the throne and to Castana. Others who claim to be in the know say that he has also tried to father sons on his concubines, but only one woman gave him a child, a sickly daughter. It appears that perhaps the blame lays with the Sultan himself, but none would dare speak of it.
And so it appears the noble Kuredin tribes, or houses as they are known in Castana, are beginning to circle, like sharks drawn to a bleeding victim. Which tribe will abandon it's name and take on the illustrious title of House of the Crown? And what of the Castanans themselves? There is still great strength among the Kuredin in Castana, but will one be perhaps fortunate enough to marry a daughter to the new Sultan when one is named? Castanan families have been entertaining Kuredin ones in greater numbers than ever before, perhaps hoping the ascent of a new Kuredin royal family will benefit them as well.
Commoners have gossip too!
Posted by Hebat
OOC Date: 6/10/2002
IC Date: 1/24/1178
Area: Castana
While the upper crust of society tends to be the focus of most of the news in the city, there is a plethora of news centered around the more common folk of the city. Here are just a few of the tales being told around their part of town.
It appears that the studio of noted painted Miquel Arello was partially burned the other evening, much to the delight of those seeking some warmth on the cold winter evening. Members of the Kurum'ur, the city guard, are investigating but so far there is only scattered gossip. Some say that Miguel had been painting a rather lewd portrait of a noblewoman and a jealous husband had his revenge. Others say that Miguel, a staunch Vesperan, had angered some local Orienites with artwork they found to be blasphemous. Others say it was just dumb luck. Miguel is a known drunk and likely set the fire himself after an evening at the Seven Veils.
Speaking of the Seven Veils it seems the motherly madame known as Rosalita, or simply Rosa, had a couple of her 'girls' thrown out after it was suspected they were stealing from the tavern. Who these girls are no one knows and Rosa has said nothing on the subject. Some think it is simply idle gossip started as story-tellers tried to one up each other.
It also appears that long time merchant Vicente Tinorez has come into some money and has purchased a home in the more illustrious Plaza of Ivory and leaving the Plaza of Onyx. He's often been called a swindler and a scoundrel, so as to how he suddenly has become so wealthy has tongues waggling. Some say they saw him at the docks, speaking with some Vicenan traders, the latter who looked nearly ill while Vicente appeared almost triumphant. Just what happened between them is still a mystery.
Regent Missing?
Posted by Orien
OOC Date: 7/23/2002
IC Date:
Area: Avanne
The rumors have run rampant in recent weeks, and it appears that they may indeed be true. Lord Meuran de Gasal, Lord Regent of Avanne these past three years, is nowhere to be found. The dignitaries of the nation, as well as diplomats from other lands, have sought him out on many occasions, only to be turned away by his staff. The excuses have grown thin and increasingly unbelievable, and last night Lord Meuran's chief advisor admitted that the Regent has not been seen by anyone these past two weeks.
The City Guard has begun a search for the missing Regent, swearing that no building will go unsearched and no clue ignored. A reward for information leading to the return of Lord Meuran has been offered, enough money to set the entire Cecidia district to drooling and looking askance at their neighbors. No formal comment has come forth from the Dukes of Avanne at what will come of this, but it would seem that the struggle for the throne has just become more serious indeed.
(OOC: Meuran's player has, unfortunately, gone absent as well. Lacking word from him, I am reopening the character for application. If you or anyone you know has interest in playing the Regent, contact Orien for more info!)
Disturbing sight
Posted by Melisse
OOC Date: 7/24/2002
IC Date:
Area: Avanne
Gossip spreads from the Gallerneault manor even though it is also rumored that the Countess has threatened anyone who speaks of the recent events. If rumors are to be believed there were three dead cats found in the Countess' garden, all killed in a rather gruesome manner. Among the trio was the Countess' prized pet, a white cat known as Mea. Servants of the usually stern woman claim she was actually in tears over the event and was quick to claim that it was one of the city's young delivery boys that was responsible. No one has stepped forward to claim they saw anyone out of the ordinary in the house lately, and so it still remains a mystery as to just what has happened.
Tournament!
Posted by Armand
OOC Date: 8/12/2002
IC Date: 4/21/1178
Area: Avanne
Word spreads rapidly through the capitol that plans which have been underway for a Tournament hosted by Joanna de Chaveaux for the enjoyment and entertainment of noble and commoner alike have come to fruition! The troubadors are in a flurry penning songs for the occasion and tuning instruments. Poets are locked in their garrets scribbling furiously and vedors are quickly stockpiling goods from meatpie to sugared fruits. Perhaps even more exciting, knights have been seen entering the city with trains of pages, squires and other attendants, their lance tips pointed toward the heavens as the ride their massive chargers through the cobbled streets, pennants and feathered plumes waving in the breeze. Children in the street stage mock battles in imitation of the future glories to be seen. Most specifically, heralds wearing the colors of Chaveaux are passing throughout the crowds announcing the scheduled events.
(OOC: Okay. I didn't hear anything for anyone about conflicts and whatnot, so here is the schedule of events. If you have massive problems and are dying to be there, send me word and I'll see what I can do.)
Wednesday, Aug. 14th 2pm-4pm est Archery Tournament
Thursday, Aug. 15th 12pm-2pm est Team Melee
Friday, Aug. 16th 10am-12pm est Jousting Tournament
Friday, Aug. 16th 2pm-4pm est Closing Feast
(It is my hope that this will provide all kinds of rp opportunities even outside of the scheduled events themselves. If your character would like to be involved in any way with the festivities please feel free to seek out Armand, Joanna or Alain. Thanks!)
Webmistress' note: Adujustment have been made to the above schedule as was noted in another OOC post.
Stirrings in Vicena
Posted by Nicolas
OOC Date: 8/19/2002
IC Date: 5/1/1178
Area: World Events
Word is spreading fast among the denizens of the known world, trickling down as rumours and announcements from the heralds. The Praelocutor of the Orienite Church, Pacifius VIII, has declared that he will be departing the isle of the Holy City to make a pilgrimage to Castana. There, in its capital of Esharra, he will hold a worship service for the few remaining faithful.
He is apparently not the only one who will be making a journey to the city that so many Orienites refer to as a den of heathens. Nobles from various duchies of Avanne and counties of Vicena plan on making a pilgrimage as well, to be seen and to see the sacred artifact known as the Disk of Antius. The medallion of the first Praelocutor of the modern Orienite Church, it is said, will be used and presented to the Castanan people at the ceremony.
OOC: Hear ye, hear ye. Anyone and everyone is invited to use the impending arrival of the Praelocutor as an excuse to visit Castana over the week. The actual date and time of the ceremony shall be announced quite soon. Questions or comments may go to Nicolas, Hebat or Orien. Thanks!
Announcement from the Sultan
Posted by Hebat
OOC Date: 8/19/2002
IC Date: 5/1/1178
Area: Castana
With word circulating that the Praelocutor of the Orienite Church is planning a visit to the mostly Lumite nation of Castana it comes as little surprise that most of the Vesperans and Lumites in the city of Esharra are a bit suspicious of the Orienite's intents. Some gossip that the visit is only the beginning of a Vicenan invasion of Castana with the hopes of restoring it to the care of the Orienite Church. Others do not believe such tales, but are still concerned about the reasons for coming to Esharra, where there is only a small population of Orienites.
Whatever the reason, word from the palace has been quick and to the point. Heralds have been sent out throughout the city, proclaiming the Sultan's word and posting grand declarations for all to read. Messangers have even been traveling to other Castanan cities bearing the same messages which are read and posted in the capital.
"Let it be known throughout all of Esharra and the nation of Castana that the Sultan Jamal ibn Shahir has opened the city to welcome the arrival of the Praelocutor and all visitors to Esharra and Castana, no matter their faith, are to be treated with respect and courtesy. Any moves to disrupt the Orienite's arrival or to disturb them when they are in Esharra will be dealt with swiftly and severely. Other nations have proven their intolerance, but Castana will be no such place."
It has also been noted that there have been increased patrols through the city, not just from the Kurum'ur but all branches of the Castanan military. Even the Shar'ur have been seen in the streets, though in smaller numbers that those of the other branches.
The Praelocutor Has Arrived
Posted by Nicolas
OOC Date: 8/22/2002
IC Date: 5/5/1178
Area: World Events
It was on a clear and bright morning, graced with warm, clement weather and a blazing sunrise, that the Praelocutor and his entourage passed through the gates into the city of Esharra. The few Orienites native to the city, as well as those who have travelled far from the outlying regions, are calling the break in the spring rain an omen of the God's good will.
There is an undeniable buzz of anticipation and tension in the city. While the Sultan has publically and officially welcomed the Praelocutor's visit, there are still a great many Vesperans and Lumites who give sidelong looks to the foreign nobles and pilgrims. The merchants have little to complain about, even if the majority of the populace will be glad when the Orienite ceremony is over. Business has been extraordinarily good.
At high noon on the same day, the Praelocutor's official announcement was made. The ceremony would be held on the 15th of Maia, at high noon, within the majesty of the Orienite Cathedral. (OOC: The OOC date for the scene will actually be on the 27th of August, which is Tuesday, at around 1 pm Eastern time. The location will be the Square of Faith, in Esharra. Everyone is invited, including non-Orienites and non-Castanans. Non-Castanans are also encouraged to come to Castana a little early to look around and RP. Take in the sights of the heathens before going home. ;) Any questions may be directed at me, Hebat or Orien. Thanks!)
Departures?
Posted by Hebat
OOC Date: 8/22/2002
IC Date: 5/5/1178
Area: Castana
Shortly after news of the the Praelocutor's visit was made public in Esharra news came from the cities of Mizrata and Sahar, welcoming the Lumite faithful who wished to escape from the onslaught of Orienite priests and worshippers. Sahar, the city nearest to the Holy Crater of Lumah, is offering pilgrimage trips to the crater site. It seems some Lumites who have no desire to stay in the city during the pomp and circumstance of Orienite Church have left, taking up the offers from sister Lumite cities.
This is not to say that the Lumite temples are empty, or the streets devoid of citizens. The city seems as full as ever, though there is an almost tangible tension in the air as more Orienites pour into a city that had once been theirs.
A Day to Remember
Posted by Nicolas
OOC Date: 8/27/2002
IC Date: 5/12/1178
Area: Castana
All throughout the morning of the Orienite ceremony, stormclouds had been gathering. Were it any other day, the denizens of Esharra would see this as a natural event. After all, it is spring, and the rains are frequent and heavy. But now, many are hailing it as an omen of times to come.
At high noon, there were thick crowds gathered in the courtyard of the Orienite cathedral, located in Esharra's Square of Faith. The Praelocutor made his appearance, and all of his faithful followers knelt in reverence to await the blessing that would be bestowed upon them by the holy artifact, the Disk of Antius. When the box was presented by the esteemed Primate Avannum, horror soon filled the clergy and the Orienites.
The Disk of Antius was not there. It had been stolen and swapped with a clever replica.
Word swept through the crowds like wildfire, and were it not for the vigilance of the Castanan military, a riot would have broken out then and there. Even so, the tension was thick and sparking, with small fights breaking out in contained clusters. Jeers and threats were shouted back and forth, exchanged between Orienite, Lumite and Vesperan.
Whatever may happen, swift action is being called. Many a Castanan now has his eyes upon his neighbours, and many now wonder what the Sultan - who had incidentally been present at the ceremony - shall do to keep the peace in his city.
Message from the Palace
Posted by Hebat
OOC Date: 8/27/2002
IC Date: 5/12/1178
Area: Castana
It did not take long for the Sultan to react to the day's near riot in the Square of Faith and on the grounds of the Orienite Cathedral. He and his Qadim were some of the first to make their way out of the Square, but multiple reports were delivered to the Sultan and his advisors. The following commands have been set down by the Sultan and only his word will recind such orders.
The ports and gates of the city shall remained closed until such a time that the Castanan government and the Orienite Church have had the opportunity to question those involved and find out who is responsible for this farce that embarrassed the Orienite Church and brought near destruction to the otherwise peaceful city of Esharra.
For their own safety the priests of the Orienite Church and all those who take sanctuary in the Cathedral's grounds are to remain on those grounds unless express permission is given by the Sultan for them to leave and they are escorted by appointed members of the Shar'ur, the Sultan's personal guard.
The Castanan military will be out in force in the streets and will tolerate no resistance to their orders or those of the Sultan. Those found disturbing the peace of the city will answer to the Sultan himself, whether he or she be Lumite, Vesperan, or Orienite from Castana, Vicena, or Avanne.
Worship shall go on as each faith sees fit, however, those who enter the Cathedral of the Sun will not be allowed to leave. They will be seen as taking sanctuary there and will be treated as any other Orienite who seeks the protection of his or her Church.
There are rumors that the Sultan will soon meet with the upper hierarchy of the visiting Orienites, but so far there seems to be no extension of goodwill from the Sultan's Palace.