______________QUICK STATS
Name Ladybird "Petal" Hornwort
Age 22
Gender Female
Species Human
Ethnicity Serenian
Height 5'4"
Occupation Flower shopkeeper, owner of "Petal and Frond"
Residence Featherfall

______________IN-DEPTH STUFF

Physical Description
Petal is beautiful in a simple sort of way. She has pale skin, brown eyes and hair and a warm smile. There is almost always dirt under fingernails no matter how much she tries to clean them. Of all her features she finds her hands the most disgusting. Her skin is cracked and dry and she thinks that her fingers being so long and thin is unattractive. They are however proportional to her hands and body and really not as bad as she believes.

Petal
By: Andrey Lazarev

Petal
By: Eve Ventrue

Personality
Petal is that girl that everyone knows and loves. She has a big heart and is willing to help everyone. However, she has been taken advantage of and had her heart stomped on a few times. While she would love to meet that quiet man who will be her secret and unexpected knight in shining armor, she is not keeping her hopes high on that one.

Also because of her fondness for helping others, she has quite a few strays that she rescues and cares for. Anyone or thing is welcome if they are need. "After all," she always says, "if I didn't I never would have met Fern." The poor snake usually continues sleeping and ignoring her at this point.

Besides loving flora and fauna and having a big heart, Petal also has a sharp wit and a wry sense of humor. She is not quick to anger and can be very innocent in her understandings of things, but she often likes to have a quick comeback to nip you in the bud.

When asked about her shop, Petal has to say this, "life is too complicated to worsen it by leaving things unsaid. The keys to life are in your hands, you just have to know what to do with them. Small acts of kindness aren't so small, they really mean a lot to the people you help. But, why flowers? Because flowers can say anything and everything when words simply fail us."

Magic/Abilities
~Extremely good with plants. She'll tell you it's because she talks to them. It is a bit more natural magic based though
~She can also communicate telepathically with her pet familiar. For them it is more about feelings than anything else. Although he is more than capable of talking to her, he spends most of his time asleep.

Relationships
Agehneim: The slimy local apothecary who gives Petal a very hard time.

Mother and Father: Happily married, retired couple. Former owners of "Petal and Frond"
Older Sister: Lucinda "Blossom" is married to a store clerk and expecting her first child. (29) (By: Igor Grushko)
Younger Sister: Wilberta "Berry" is engaged to a merchant sailor. (18)

Familiar: A ringsnake by the name of Fern. Petal found him hiding in one of her flowerpots in the middle of winter. Feeling pity she took him in and allowed him to get warm. Ever since the two have been inseparable. Fern will almost always be found on Petal's person. Traditionally her hangs out around her wrist but he has been known to curl up in other places, like her leg and neck.

For the longest time she did not know that the occasional odd feelings she got randomly were coming from him. The day he first spoke in her mind she was sure she had gone insane. Fern doesn't talk much but he eventually got around to explaining that he is her guide and companion, her familiar.

Fern is a very lazy individual. He didn't talk with Petal for years because he "forgot." He would rather sleep than be much help. Despite this, he cares for his "ward" a great deal and would not see her hurt. While mildly venomous, he is hard-pressed to actually injure a human due to his small mouth. Doesn't stop him from trying though.
Fern

Notable Pets:
Randy the tortoise (male)
Tips the tabby (male)
Akira the black feral cat with mismatched eyes (female)
The Hedgehog

History
Nothing really out of ordinary to report. She's the middle child of two loving parents. Currently she owes and runs her family's flower shop.

______________THREAD TRACKER
Current Threads


Complete Threads
Am I Bugging You? (Partner Deactivated)
Beauty and the Bandit (Partner Left)
Lonely Streets (Partner Deactivated)
A Warm Fire and Icy Rain (Partner Deactivated)
Hemlock and Snapdragon (Partner Deactivated)
Some Weather We're Having Here (Partner Deactivated)
Bending Fate
The Night's Hunt
A Time of Life Renewed

Timeline
Am I Bugging You?
Lonely Streets
Hemlock and Snapdragon
Beauty and the Bandit
The Night's Hunt
Some Weather We're Having Here
A Time of Life Renewed
A Warm Fire and Icy Rain
Bending Fate

Saezer's explosive and cruel parting had hurt Primrose deeply. Instead of moving on and forgetting the unfortunate events the young noblewoman allowed herself to let it linger and affect her.

She had been good to her word and ensured that the woman carpenter had been compensated. However, Primrose had refused to leave the security and solitude of her home. She even went so far as to give up teaching for several weeks.

Nothing her students and servants did could bring her out of her melancholy state. Even Janus' pranks around the house could not bring about her laughter or her rage. Primrose had become a sad, listless shell of her former self.

Locked away in her study, she sat at her desk trying but failing to accomplish anything. The tiny woman sighed, throwing down her quill which bumped against the inkwell. Her hand shot out to catch the pot. Settled once more, her thoughts turned back to previous weeks. 'Wouldn't want that to start all over again. Not that I have any more friends to drive away with my antics.'

The blue-black ink had finally bled its way out of her hair, returning it to its former golden sheen. An idea began to glide and flit about the corner of her mind as Primrose rubbed the oily black liquid between her fingers. 'If the support beam were moved to the right then...' Realization struck her suddenly and she rushed to draw out what she was considering. 'This completely eliminates the need for so many support columns and completely opens up the space. I have to tell Olivia!'

Primrose excitedly surged to her feet, knocking over the chair. "Oh. She probably doesn't want to work with me now after my temper tantrum." Thin shoulders drooped in defeat. 'You can always try. You muss every opportunity you refuse to go after.' Making up her mind, she scooped up her plans albeit a bit more slowly and prepared to leave the name for the first time in nearly a month.

Each step felt both smothering and freeing. She was headed towards another possible rejection but she was also moving away from the last one. Primrose found her steps falter briefly at the door but, she refused to stop now. 'It's too late to become a chicken when I'm this close.' Steeling herself, she took a deep breath and entered. "Oliv-uh, Miss Grey?"

Market day was always a busy affair in Arca. It was crowded, noisy, and even at times smelly. However, to opportunists like Ocarern, it was the perfect time for hunting. The petite elf silently made his way through the thick throng. His eyes darted seemingly causally about as he surveyed the possible prey.

Spotting a portly gentleman, heavily sweating despite the autumn breeze and nervously touching his side, Ocarern evaluated a plan of action. Deciding quickly, he slowly ambled his way over to the rich man. Appearing to be examining some fruit, the elf allowed himself to be jostled by other customers so that he bumped into his intended target.

With the practiced speed of a well-versed thief he relieved the other gentleman of his purse. Smiling slightly from the weight of the contents, he slipped it into his cloak. Placing the fruit back on the stand he shook his head and moved on, attempting to melt back into the crowd.

______________QUICK STATS
Name Ocarern Farwind
Age Unknown
Gender Male
Species Elf
Ethnicity Connlaothian
Height 5'1"
Occupation
Residence Arca

______________IN-DEPTH STUFF

Physical Description
Ocarern is androgynous in appearance. He has full lips, a button-nose, and long lashes. He is short and lithe in stature. Due to his height and plain coloring he is usually overlooked, something he is happy to allow. His ears are his greatest downfall in being completely unnoticed. While great for hearing, they are pointed enough to poke out from his shoulder-length jagged haircut. He also has the ability to move them about independently of each other, although this is usually done subconsciously and causes him great embarrassment. His clothing consists of clothes traditional of his elfish heritage. He wears high-collared long-sleeved tunics with loose breeches. He does carry with him his father's armor and his mother's fur cloak but has only worn them each once.

Ocarern Farwind
By David Kuo

Personality
Ocarern is a very quiet and shy young man. He does not like being noticed and tends to shy away from physical contact. As a rule he does not get close to people. In many ways he can be very child-like in his curious and attentive manner. However, he can be very focused and determined when he chooses to be. He does not share his emotions easily. When alone he may lash out, but otherwise he expresses himself through minute gestures that are not always recognized for what they are.

Music is Ocarern life. It is the only thing that brings him peace and a true smile to his face. He uses music as his greatest means of communication, specifically about things that have to do with emotions.

Magic/Abilities
~Excellent musician (prefers flutes and pipes)
~Handy with his hands especially woodcarving and gardening
~Pickpocket
~Acute hearing
~Empathic

Relationships
Close friend, Kestal Ssinjin
Close friend, Arensaenger "Aren" Pexsa

History
Ocarern's parents and older sister were tortured and murdered in front of him when he was younger. His family had been living in Connlaoth at the time and a mob had accused them of practicing magic and killed them. Ocarern fled and survived but, the joy had left him. He made his way to Arca and became a bit of a pickpocket. His love of music eventually caused him to run into Kestal Ssinjin a lot. He liked her singing so much that he soon made sure to witness every one of her shows. The fact that others with heavily-lined pockets were also there did not hurt.

He met Aren when Kestal began to play in Three Oaks Hall which Aren's family owned. Ocarern began to frequent it more and more as Kestal played there more and more. The number of patrons that came was amazing to him. He never went home hungry or empty handed on those nights.

All of this came to an end though the night Aren caught him in the act. Since then he became friends with the pair, living in Aren's family's tavern and resuming his "business transactions" outside of his new home.

______________THREAD TRACKER
Current Threads


Complete Threads
Song of Tides
Peas in a Pod (Partner Left)
A Cord of Three Strands is not Easily Broken (Partner Deactivated)
Witness (Partner Deactivated)
Stormy Soul (Partner Deactivated)
Set Fire to the Rain(Partner Deactivated)
The Mending of Time
Rendezvous with a Pickpocket

Timeline
Rendezvous with a Pickpocket
Peas in a Pod
Witness
A Cord of Three Strands is not Easily Broken
Song of Tides
Set Fire to the Rain
Stormy Soul
The Mending of Time

They had met that once more and not again for quite some time. Saezer had said that he was busy and apologized for not being about to see her more. Primrose had of course understood. But, as the days went on, she missed her friend more and more.

It pleased her greatly when she started receiving letters from him. For weeks she would smile just thinking of their friendly correspondence. Lately, though she was more excited and distracted than ever. In his last letter, Saezer said he was on his way back to Ketra and promised to spend another dinner with her.

The passing days without him seemed more lonely than the next. While their company together had been short, Primrose had found a close friend in Saezer. She hoped based on his letters that he did indeed feel the same.

Tiredly, Primrose made her way back home through the forest. 'Who knew children could be so tiring? I love the dears but I just can't keep up with them these days. Must be because it's summer. The longer the days the more energy they have to play instead of listen.'

Primrose dismissed class and began to walk the youngest children back to their homes. The sun had begun to set, creating long dark shadows. The children laughed and skipped ahead wishing her a goodnight as they each reached home.

The youngest Bryant walked sullenly beside her. "Did you have fun today Bryant?" she asked hugging him close. Bryant just shrugged his little shoulders, refusing to look at her. "Bryant sweetie, what's wrong?" she asked worriedly, kneeling down to his level.

"Stay away from my son, whore! Come 'ere boy. I'll teachya to filch your chores!"

Primrose froze at the accusation, pulling the little boy closer to her. "Davis you are drunk!" she cried slowly backing away from the furious father as he advanced on them, removing his belt. "Leave him alone Davis! Today was a class say, if you weren't so drunk you would remember this."

"Quiet you! Boy in the house, now!" Bryant took one look at his father and bolted from Primrose's arms and into the house. "You stay 'way from me boy ya 'ere! Don' need ya putting thoughts 'side his 'ead. He hardly does his keep 'round 'ere as it were."

"Davis, I know you are upset but, Amleah would have wanted Bryant to continue his studies. If this is about the mon-"

"I said be silent!" he roared striking her across the face so hard she fell down. "How dare you talk 'bout her like that. You's was the one who got her kilt."

"Stop this Davis. You are drunk. Don't make me call for my guards. All I have to do is scream and they will hear me. I don't want to have to Davis, please don't force me too. Think of Bryant."

The mention of his son sent Davis into a fury. Roaring he lashed out again at Primrose, this time kicking her in the side. She cried out in pain. "Where are your guards now, filth!"

______________QUICK STATS
Name Primrose Dragoslav
Nicknames Prim or Rose
Age 24
Gender Female
Species Human
Ethnicity Adelan and Serenian
Height 5'2"
Occupation Teacher
Residence Ketra

______________IN-DEPTH STUFF

Physical Description
She is petite young woman with long red-gold hair and tanned skin. Her eyes are a cerulean blue.
Primrose Dragoslav
Primrose at her father's grave
Pictures by: Sonia Verdú

Personality
Primrose is a very impish individual. She is sweet and funny but is not above playing a good prank on someone who has wronged her. She has a kind heart and adventurous soul. She loves making a difference in people's lives and bringing laughter wherever she goes. Her passion is knowledge and its use. She believes it is the world's greatest weapon and has devoted her life to teaching.

Magic/Abilities
-Basic Swordplay

Relationships
~Childhood friend: Ryuu Dubhshíth
~Father: deceased noble and dragonrider, Orean Dragoslav
~Mother: deceased noblewoman, Stella Dragoslav
~Dragon: Orean's deceased dragon, Ustskel
~Mother's Brother: Serenian nobleman, Engilram
~Cat: Fat tomcat belonging to Engilram, Mr. Grimalkin
~Manservant: husband to Jolie, father of Janus, and a father-figure to Primrose, Jain
~Cook: wife to Jain, mother of Janus, and a mothering woman to Primrose, Jolie
~Houseboy: son of Jain and Jolie, a servant and dear friend to Primrose known for trying to prank her, Janus

History
Primrose was born to two noble parents: Serenian mother Stella and Adelan father Orean. Together the three lived in comfort in their home in Ketra. Orean was a highly respected Dragonrider and one of the best. Stella often dabbled in politics working with others on whatever was the current concern. Then when Primrose reached the age of six Orean was killed in the line of duty. A group of poachers attacked Ustskel and Orean died protecting her. After the funeral Stella took her young daughter and returned to Serendipity. The house in Ketra was locked up and run by a handful of servants that stayed to look over it. It was in Serendipity that Primrose met Ryuu. The two became inseparable friends. At ten her mother died and in grief she returned to her homeland in Adela. Primrose grew to become a beautiful young woman. She took her love of knowledge and turned it into her career.

______________THREAD TRACKER
Current Threads
When Fate Comes a'knocking

Complete Threads
Swords-play in the Forest
~Continues in To Primrose, From Saezer
To Primrose, From Saezer
~Continues in Keep Your Sword Close to Mine
Keep Your Sword Close to Mine
~Continues in Building Bridges
Training...*Cough cough* i mean Playing in the Park
Civilization's Little Oddities (Partner Deactivated)
Breaking the Rules (Partner Deactivated)
Building Bridges (Partner Deactivated)
Medicinal Menagerie (Partner Deactivated)
A Day in the Park
Shadows of the Mind
Here's to Firsts

Timeline
A Day in the Park
Shadows of the Mind
Training...*Cough cough* i mean Playing in the Park
Medicinal Menagerie
Swords-play in the Forest
To Primrose, From Saezer
Civilization's Little Oddities
Here's to Firsts
Keep Your Sword Close to Mine
Building Bridges
Breaking the Rules
When Fate Comes a'Knocking

______________QUICK STATS
Name Lassassasya Ashaugh Seocss
Age 415
Gender Male
Species Unknown
Ethnicity Moraki
Height 6'7"
Occupation Desert Guardian
Residence Moraki Desert

______________IN-DEPTH STUFF

Physical Description
Lassassasya is a large bulky creature standing an impressive 6'7" His skin is actually black and cream scales that cover him entirely from head to toe. His face is snake-like with a forked tongue and slit-iris eyes. His only ornaments are his wood and beads torc and three piercings in his left head-tail.

Lassassasya Ashaugh Seocss
By Darko Kreculj

Personality
loyal, wise, fierce warrior, protective, secretive...

Magic/Abilities
-Spit venom

Relationships
None

History
more to come

______________THREAD TRACKER
Current Threads

Complete Threads

It was market day in Summervale. Everywhere she turned, Tiraris, saw people bartering over their goods. The new shipments had come in and the day was beautiful, a perfect day for socializing. 'And a perfect day to be working,' she thought.

She was currently following her newest target with outward disinterest. Her client was interested in avenging the death of his wife caused by an errant healer. Tiraris was not interested in the exact details only in the money she would get out of it this time. She was charging a fortune for this job, not that she needed the money.

The merchants called out to her, enticing her to view their wares. Seeing the healer pause at an herb stall she too paused to examine the goods of the cart in front of her. The merchant began to sweet-talk her as she jingled her change purse about, trying to play the naive noble she was born to be.

I don't know how difficult it would be. However, it might be more practical to have the SotE map in the "world" section of the site. I am by no means complaining but, I know to some of the newer players it can be hard to find or remember that it's in the plotting center.

Hope that's helpful :)

Tiraris fled as quickly as she could, the time for stealth was over, the time to survive was now. Originally it was a simple mission. Attend a masquerade in Kia's Court, dance, drink, kill a minor noble, share some gossip, drink some more, and then walk out the front door. Simple really, until you add in an overbearing employer, a clumsy servant, an overripe mango, and an escaped guard dog. Then, things go from simple to slightly complicated.

From here things went from slightly complicated to very complicated when the target proved to be more aware of the situation than expected, the alarm was sounded, she was cornered on a balcony, and worst of all the noble had spilled his wine all over her good dress when he died. Now that was unacceptable.

Unfortunately, she did not have time to mull this over as she jumped off the balcony and into the pond below. Her outfit weighed her down bu,t that was the price of wearing protective armor underneath one's ballgown. She was pulling herself to shore when she felt something brush past her right cheek followed by a stinging sensation. The whiz of arrows flying past her head, motivated her to quicken her escape. But it was not quick enough, just as she entered the foliage of estate's forest she felt white-hot pain rip through her as something slammed into her left side. Looking down she saw an arrow sticking out of her right below her bosom.

'I do not have time for this!' her mind screamed as she broke the arrow off and continued running. At last she could not hear the guards behind her and her pace slowed. Warily she looked about her and determined that she was not far from the lower town. She was just beyond the path, no one would see her unless they were looking.

Gasping she collapsed to her knees, pressing her hand to her side, feeling the hot blood pour out onto it. She tried to pull it out but, her vision developed black spots when she did. 'It is too deep. I cannot get it out.' She pressed some more around the area, trying to pinpoint just how deep the arrowhead was. Pain flared anew as her fingers pressed lower below the wound. 'Broken rib too. This just gets better and better.' Her breathing alternated between panting and holding her breath as she battled the urge to scream in pain. 'Come on! You have been through worse, pull yourself together. You have a fee to collect,' she coached herself into an attempt to stand. But, it was altogether useless. Her side flared in pain and her vision blurred. A soft gasp escaped her lips as she once more collapsed against the tree. 'You know, maybe I should wait until the guards have settled down a bit. Then, I can go claim my reward.'

______________QUICK STATS
Name Tiraris Silverd'art
Alias Zayna/Zeyna (Only in Essyrn)
Age 27
Gender Female
Species Human
Ethnicity Serenian
Height 5'9"
Occupation Assassin
Residence Wherever

______________IN-DEPTH STUFF

Physical Description
Tiraris has straight dark-red hair and red-brown eyes. She also has high cheekbones, full lips and very slightly pointed ears. She is a tall pale-skinned woman of lithe build. Her traditional garb consists of form-fitting black armor and chainmail for free movement. Her primary weapon is her longsword, Isilotsë. However, she does carry several other daggers and things on her person.

Tiraris Silverd'art
By Carlos Villa

Personality
Tiraris is very introverted. She likes to keep to herself and does not for themost part find other's company pleasing. She appears to be cold and cruel. In reality she really can be. Her past made her cut off the part of her that feels although with the help of some new aquitances she is re-learning to care for more than just herself. Tiraris lives a survival-based existence. She kills not because she enjoys the bloodlust or needs the money but, because it's a job and makes her feel useful.

She is prone to threatening and posturing to get her way. If that does not work then she will make good on them. She is not a sadist or a masochist. However, she can at times come off that way with all the mental torture she puts herself through.

Honor is very important to Tiraris. She will die for honor without hesitation. Cross her and you are more than likely to get burned. Give her reason to trust you and she will defend you until the end. Failure is not an option in her mind.

Magic/Abilities
-Fast self-healing capabilities (except iron-caused injuries)
-Minimal capability to heal others (she has to care for them and it is very draining on her)
-Higher hearing range
-Emotion driven magic (If she gets extremely angry or upset she can make things explode)
-Expert swordsman
-Well-versed in poisons
-Well educated
-Multilingual

Relationships
Lady Zoraida Firrikash: Her mother caged her into locking up her own personality and becoming the perfect doll. Tiraris left to be her own person.
Lord Neirin Firrikash: The man her mother married
Father: The man her mother had an affair with
Caden D'Andarce: Tiraris' life match. The man she is meant to spend her life with but keeps pushing away.

History
Tiraris' past as recounted by herself to her love:

"You have explained, now you must listen. I told you once before that I am of Serian descent. My appearance is not the only thing that comes from the ancient Fae blood. Fate or god, whatever you want to call it, has a way of putting us back in our place when we get out of line. When humans start forgetting where their roots are buried, fate steps in. Suddenly, after centuries of dormancy, generations of newborns will start showing signs of their ancestral roots. Each generation becomes stronger and their traits more noticeable than their predecessors until it is born.

"My mother's father had the strength of fifteen men. His son, my uncle, could outrun a horse and keep running for days before ever tiring. My mother," she paused reminiscing. "My mother was-is-the most beautiful woman you will ever see. I do not even come close in comparison. Her voice..." Tiraris trailed off licking her chapped lips. "They say she could sing Kia herself right down from the heavens." She snorted rolling her eyes. "Mother could and would sing the birds down into the palm of her hand. She hoped one day to become High Lady of Tirial. Her lullaby to me was the song of histories. Any man who ever laid eyes or ears on her was instantly entranced and enthralled, including the man she was betrothed to and eventually married.

"My mother's husband was a soft-spoken man. He too seemed to carry a gift of his own. While he never once raised his voice, he could settle any argument with just a few wise and patient words. Whatever he said, always came to pass. People respected him for that. It is unknown whether his gift was from seer blood or not. Whether he just saw things and then shared the truth, or that because he said things they became true is also unknown. All I know is, is that he was never wrong.

"When they married they tried to conceive and failed. After several years of trying, my mother finally birthed a son. He was stillborn. Desperate, they began to ask around for help until at last a man came forth from one of the outlying villages. With his help, she conceived. But, unbeknownst to her husband she soon miscarried. Secretly, she sought out the man and," Tirairs stopped, shaking her head angrily. "And she invited him into her heart and her bed. So was conceived the generation's it, the demon-child they named, Tiraris."

She chuckled at a joke only she seemed to know. "But, my story does not end there. My childhood was a good and uneventful one. An occasional outburst of my gift would spark up but, nothing easily memorable.

"Then I turned nine. On my ninth birthday, my mother sang a little songbird to me. That night, I saw a group of rowdy boys stone him from a tree. I chased them away and held him in my hands. His heartbeat was so faint, I did not know what to do. I became hysterical. That was the first time I felt the fire ignite within me. But, without the proper understanding of what it was, I could not not stop it. It ripped and tore its way through me, healing my little feathered friend. The last thing I remember is excruciating pain and birdsong."

Tiraris took a deep breath before continuing. Her mind still remembered the pain and was slow to release her from its memory. "While I lay abed for a week, my parents again called upon the healer. He came and woke my from my deathly sleep but, not without a price. He warned my father-in-name that this would happen again and again until it finally killed me. The only way for me to survive was to learn to control it. The healer promised to teach me on the condition that the truth of my heritage was revealed, that I am the bastard daughter of a secret union.

"Through his teachings, I learned to heal myself, but was never taught to control my gift beyond controlling my emotions. I cannot stop it, nor can I use it. Healing you was a miraculous first for me. By sheer will, I converted negativity into a constructive force.

"My father-in-name rejected me and cast out my birth father when he found out what I was. My mother tried to marry off her shame. But, any man who claimed me for his marriage bed, died before the wedding night had even begun. After three husbands, people started to name me the black-veiled bride. My fathers both cursed me at the funeral of my fifth husband. I will never be happy. I will be hurt by men's cruelty. I will die friendless and alone. I will harm any man who desires me. When at last I find my fated, I will ultimately destroy him with my gift. All of this has and will come to pass unless my gift has been tamed."

______________THREAD TRACKER
Current Threads
Crumbs From the Bread King

Complete Threads
Shall We Dance?
~Continues In A Most Dangerous Tango
A Most Dangerous Tango
~Continues In Amongst These Fevered Steps
The Fallen Will Rise Once More
~Continues In A Case of Black and White
A Case of Black and White (Partner Left)
Cats and Mice
~Continues In Crimson Shadows
Of Bards and Assassins (Partner Deactivated)
A Lion, a Witch, and a Weasel
~Continues In Coiffed Clerics Choke Clean Clerk's Cherished Chickens
Coiffed Clerics Choke Clean Clerk's Cherished Chickens (Partner Deactivated)
Yule Tidings
Opportune Heist (Partner Deactivated)
Wrath of the Red Talon (Partner Deactivated)
Driving out the Demon (Partner Deactivated)
Withed Fruit, Ripe with Ink (Partner Deactivated)
Amongst These Fevered Steps
Under a Blood Moon
Crimson Shadows
Stalking for Prey
When the Unjust Call Foul Play

Timeline*
Yule Tidings
Of Bards and Assassins (Summervale)
Under a Blood Moon (Draconi Forest)
A Lion, a Witch, and a Weasel (Sirantil Valley)
Coiffed Clerics Choke Clean Clerk's Cherished Chickens (Essyrn)
Withered Fruit, Ripe with Ink (Moraki Desert)
Crumbs From the Bread King (Essyrn)
Opportune Heist (Serha Plains)
Wrath of the Red Talon (Niahi Woods)
Cats and Mice (Matron's Hallow)
Crimson Shadows (Darken Vei)
Driving out the Demon (Jadenshine)
When the Unjust Call Foul Play (Featherfall)
Stalking for Prey (Arca)
The Fallen Will Rise Once More (Kia's Court)
A Case of Black and White (Kia's Court)
Shall We Dance? (Ketra)
A Most Dangerous Tango (Ketra)
Amongst These Fevered Steps (Tirial)

*Note: Don't be put off by all the countries listed in the timeline. It's actually a way for me to keep track of where Tiraris is as I make new threads with her ^.^

Zurna yawned as she went about her morning ritual. Barefoot in the melting snow, she stood straight as a tent-pole with the palms of her hands gently cradling the front of her face. Soft, melodious words flowed from her tongue as she prayed to her Gods thanking them for a new day and the ever-present fire in her family's hearth.

When at last she felt the sun's warm rays caress her face and hands, she opened her eyes and smiled breathing deeply the cool morning air. "Yet another beautiful sunrise, what more could I ever ask for on this perfect day?"

With a sigh she threw on her fur wrap and boots in preparation for a day's work. "Priority one of the day," she said to herself, "find eggs for breakfast."

(OOC: Hope this works...this is my first RP experience so I'm still trying to find the balance of too much and too little info)

When she was a child, Zurna loved Summer in the Tundra. As a child, summer meant being allowed to play outside for short periods of time instead of being cooped up in her family's tent. Summer meant candies and new toys from the passing caravans. It meant new stories of exciting lands she had never seen, stories that would fuel her imagination for the cold months ahead. But, now as an adult all Zurna can think about is the amount of work she has yet to accomplish. With her brothers gone and her parents ailing she is now in charge of her family hearth.

'I wish Yotar had not married. Things would be so much easier if I did not have to look after his family as well as our own. If he was not married he would not even have his own boat to fish in and would instead be the one harvesting the peat moss right now,' she bitterly thought as her feet sank into the muck of the bog.

"Aunt Z! Aunt Z!" screamed the voices of her tiny twin nieces. "Aunt Z, the caravans are coming!" They excitedly exclaimed as they waded through the peat bog towards her. Zurna smiled as she was torn from her disgruntled thoughts. "Careful you two! If you fall in, I'm not pulling you out." She called back playfully.

'Then again,' she thought 'I could never resent him the happiness he has earned nor the joy his twins bring everywhere they go.'

Grabbing her basket and strapping it to her back she headed over to the girls taking them each by the hand and out of the bog.

"Now what is this I hear you saying about caravans?" Zurna asked as the trio headed towards camp.

My little Zurna is new here and would love to start a thread with anyone headed to the Tundra. Anything goes, I'm sure she would be willing to go on any adventure that drags her away from the over-protection of her 25 older brothers.

Eventually I will get my act together and make a picture of her as well as more characters.

Happy Writing Everyone!

______________QUICK STATS
Name Zurna Nali
Age 19
Gender Female
Orientation Straight
Species Human
Ethnicity Hyoite
Height 5'6"
Occupation Nomad
Residence Hyoite

______________IN-DEPTH STUFF

Physical Description
Zurna has curly, waist-length dark brown hair that she keeps in a braid. Occasionally when the sun is shining just right auburn highlights can be seen within it. She also has moss-colored eyes in a heart-shaped face. Her fair complexion has been weathered from the elements and hard labor. Her only ornaments are the necklace she has worn since birth and a flat silver oval-shaped ring on her left index finger. She is partial to wearing men's tunics and leggings because of their ease of movement.

Personality
Zurna is a hard-working, conscientious young woman. She is strong from her years of cleaning fish, hunting, and assisting her mother at home while her father and brothers are at sea. She can take care of herself and is a bit of a tomboy. Most of her personality is more bark than bite. She is mischievous, yet kind. She is willing to help anyone and anything which has gotten her into a scrap of trouble more often than she cares to admit. Zurna is also very religious, or at least more than most others on the tundra. She believes in always being thankful for the gifts the gods give, no matter how simple. While her family really only prays over the hearth and before and after the fishing trips. Zurna on the other hand, prays before and after most of her tasks. Some prayers are only said in her head while others she actually takes the time to pause for.

Magic/Abilities
She does not appear to have any particular abilities yet. Possibilities of things popping up could occur due to her unknown parentage.
Aside from this Zurna is a very accomplished hunter, fisher, and caregiver.

Relationships
Zurna is the daughter of nomads Trafford Istr and Minali Keere. She also has twenty-five older brothers, all of whom have become fishermen like their father. Due to Minali's love of music and in honor of its connection to the sea each of her children, Zurna included, are alphabetically named after musical instruments. Zurna's closest brother is a year older than her while their eldest brother is sixty years older than them. She also has many sisters-in-law and nieces and nephews whom she rarely sees and can never seem to keep straight. Zurna has no romantic relationships because her older brothers over-protection her own outward disinterest. Secretly Zurna longs for a family of her own but has yet to find anyone.

Her brothers in birth-order:
Atenteben: Early 80's, expecting first great-grandchild, Birbyn, Chalumeau, Duduk, Erhu, Fiscorn: Bone carver, Garmon: Twin, Helicon: Twin, Inci, Jiaohu, Kaval, Lituus, Mizmar, Nohkan, Octavin, Palendag: Quiet and reserved with words, Quena, Ryuteki, Shofar, Tarogato: Friendly confidant, Uilleann: Playful, Vielle: Identical triplet, Washint: Identical triplet, Xalam: Identical triplet, and Yotar.

Sonia is Yotar's wife and the mother of twins Aliyah and Cara. She does not get along with Zurna and is known for acting like a spoiled brat.

Aliyah and Cara or Yotar's twin daughters. They are sweet little things that like to follow Zurna around like she is their big sister. Cara is the more adventurous of the two while Aliyah is quieter and shy. She also have trouble pronouncing her Aunt's name and always refers to her as "Aunt Z."

History
Zurna is the adoptive daughter of Hyoite nomad parents. The story she has been told since birth is that after the birth of their twenty-fifth son her parents desperately wanted a daughter. They prayed daily for this gift and were not granted it. After three months of prayer, it came time for Trafford to join the fishermen at sea, leaving his wife and youngest sons at home for the months to come. However, it was at sea that his eldest son, Atenteben found a bassinet in the water and pulled it aboard. Inside the men were awed to find a newborn baby girl. Found around her neck was a fishhook necklace, the manaia symbol of the Hyoite people. Taking this as a sign from God, Trafford claimed the girl as his own. Twelve months after the birth of her youngest son, Minali met for the very first time her twenty-sixth child, the sea-daughter, who she named Zurna.

Zurna's closest brother often jokes that Zurna is the result of their father's trysts at sea. Every joke involving a different breed of sea creature. She does not really take stock in this but secretly agrees that she is actually her father's and another woman's child.

Zurna currently lives in her father's tent and has become her family's "keeper of the flame," the stand-in matriarch of the family. As the only unmarried child, she is in charge of caring for her elderly parents and watching over the wives of Xalam and Yotar when the sea calls them away from home. She is not resentful of her duty but is beginning to yearn for something more.

______________THREAD TRACKER
Current Threads

Complete Threads
Cold Poison
Snow Angels (Partner Left)
Return for Resupply (Partner Deactivated)
Cold Day for Fishing (Partner Deactivated)
It's Never Summer in the Snow (Partner Deactivated)
Fire and Frost (Partner Deactivated)
Stuck in the Snow...and Lost (Partner Deactivated)
The Women of Hyoite (Partner Deactivated)

Timeline
The Women of Hyoite
It's Never Summer in the Snow
Snow Angels
Fire and Frost
Return for Resupply
Cold Day for Fishing
Cold Posion
Stuck in the Snow...and Lost

PLAYER WANTS

What types of plots are you interested in playing?
Anything. ^.^

What types of plots are you not interested in playing?
I am not really interested in extreme silliness. If it occurs within the plot by all means go for it. But, I would rather that not be the entirety of it.

How often can you reply to any given thread?
I am going to try to check posts everyday. Responding to posts takes a lot more time though. I am slow with posts but only because I am giving them my all and I have a LOT of them!

What is the longest you're willing to wait for a reply to a thread?
I am more than willing to wait as long as a partner needs to get into the groove of writing. I do however check in with players after a minimum of a few weeks just to make sure everything is alright. I understand that life gets in the way of RP'ing sometimes ;)

Are you open to RPing over instant messengers? If so, what's the best way to contact you and what times are you generally available?
I am not open to RPing over IM simply because I keep really odd hours.

Are you open to post volleying?
Absolutely! The best way to set this up with me is to arrange it with me over PM. As long as I know a date and time in advance I can be open to volleying. Also if you see me online just give me a shout and we can see what we can do.

Anything else?
I am open to anything and willing to change my mind over things I don't want. Just ask me. :D

PLAYER LIMITS

What are you limits regarding powerplay/godmoding?
I don't really mind how my character is handled. I would like the room to make my own decisions for my characters though. As long as you don't do something maiming or fatal without discussing it with me first, I'm pretty open.

What are your limits in regards to romantic situations?
I am comfortable with anything. I have done both planning and just letting things happen. Usually I find that unless characters have been made to be in a relationship together, it is best to let them fall into their relationships on their own. You never know what can happen when you let them run wild. I am also open to rejection and love triangles. I believe it makes things more realistic as this does happen in real life. Basically if it could happen in the medieval era then I am open with doing it.

What are your limits in regards to sex?
I prefer to discuss this with the player before going through with writing this. It really depends on the person how far I go with scenes. I do not want either party to feel uncomfortable with what we are writing. I can do a scene where we black out or where we get detailed. I just don't want plots to be solely about sex. Everything is situation based of course!  ;)

What are your limits in regards to pregnancy within plots?
It is literally a part of life and definitely something I am alright with doing in a thread. I do think though that if it is between my character and another's that it could be discussed as it is a major plotpoint. But otherwise I see no problems with it.

What are your limits in regards to violent scenes?
I am comfortable with writing violent or fade to black scenes. The more violent though the more likely I will want to talk with my partner to make sure no one gets upset or that things do not go to far.

What are your limits in regards to abuse/rape in plots?
This is definitely something that I would need to talk about with my thread partners. If it is in a character's past then I am fine with it. However, I would want to discuss things first before ever attempting to write this with anyone.

How far can character injuries go?
Nothing permanently maiming (loss of limbs, eyes, hearing, etc.) or fatal (death). Everything else is game unless I say otherwise. If you are unsure just ask me.

How far can torture go?
As far as injuries go. If my character does get into a torture situation we may discuss specifics then.

What about character death?
Permission should definitely be asked. I don't mind my characters dying but I would like to decide when.

Are you okay with characters being transformed against their will?
I am not opposed to the idea but, I would like my consent given first.

What about healing?
Go for it! However, I reserve the right to make it not work.

Anything else?
I am very open about everything and even if I said here that I would rather not do it, my mind can change. Just talk to me. I try my hardest to be very considerate with how long I take to post and how I write things. If you don't like something, please just say so. I write with anyone and everyone that is willing no matter style or experience. I just want to write ^.^
Important Phobia Listed Below!!! (Spoiler for ME XD)

Spoiler

I have a big issue with saliva (even the word is deeply unpleasant for me and prolonged focus on the topic will make me physically ill). A kiss, a lick, salivating at the thought of something I can handle....but please for the love of bog I beg you keep graphic descriptions drooling/sliming etc to a minimum. The longer I have to focus on it the harder it is going to be for me. Please and thank you

[close]

Good day to you! (That is of course if you wish it to be, if not then that is your prerogative.) I am known as GoblinFae. I have been debating becoming a SotE member for several years now. Obviously I have finally broken down and done so. I have been a writer for almost ten years now but, this is admittedly my first RPG attempt.

I look forward to working with you all in the future!

House details being edited ^.^ Please excuse the dustbunnies flying about


LOCATION: Southwest
BORDERS: Fallial, Altas Verde, Ravensway, Jadenshine
LAND: Mountains and highland plateau
CAPITAL: Maestoso

Like Fallial, Tirial rests on a plateau in the western part of the kingdom and was among the first regions inhabited when Serendipity's founders first migrated across the mountains. Its ancient heritage is a source of pride among those who dwell here, and many families in this province have held their lands for centuries. Has a close relationship with Fallial.


GEOGRAPHY

The land is mountainous and the climate is generally dry and warm. While the soil is not of a bad quality, land is difficult to cultivate due to the hilly terrain, so most agriculture consists of either goat and sheep farming, or terraced orchards where crops such as grapes and olives may be grown. Like its sister province, Fallial, Tirial is also home of the Brown Ayr breed of woolly oxen whose wool is spun and used for clothing. Tirial though, must import any grains and staples it needs. However, this is more than made up for by its famous goat cheeses and excellent wine, both of which are in high demand from those with discerning taste in large towns such as Arca and Cerenis.

As with Altas Verde and Fallial, mining is a significant source of income for the province. A huge amount of silver is hidden within the mountains, with a smaller but still important reserve of gold alongside it. Most of the precious metals mined here are exported, as the gregarious nature of the people does not lend itself well to the solitary pursuit of the craftsman.

Settlements tend to be small and far apart, nestled in the hills, although they are not as isolated as they might seem. The roads here are well established and very old, tended to by the people who rely on them to move from town to town. All but the most remote villages can be accessed easily enough by carriage, as well as on horseback or on foot.

The main city, Maestoso, is situated in the east on the lowest and flattest stretch of land in the province. As the first safe stop after the mountains for early Serenians, this has the distinction of being the country's oldest permanent settlement. Most of the oldest towns in the province are also on the highlands, with a few small farming villages in the mountains. More recently, large towns have sprung up around the mines and although they don't have as long a local history as others, they are fiercely proud of what they do have, and each mine seems to have its own folklore attached to it.


CULTURE

As the first settled province, Tirial is extremely proud of its history and has a long and respected oral tradition. Writing is not thought so highly of, and considered more of a necessity than an art in itself. The common view is that if one truly cares about something, they'll take the time to remember it and make it personal to them. Spoken and sung storytelling is held in the highest regard, considered the only way to keep a tale really alive. As such, Tirial turns out a higher than normal number of bards and storytellers who ply their trade not only within their home province, but also throughout Serendipity and even further. The people's love of history also means many of Serendipity's most prominent scholars originate here, although they aren't as respected at home as they are elsewhere.

These traditions extend even to the language spoken in the region. While Common is still the most used language here, Old Serenian is spoken far more often than it is elsewhere in a bid to keep at least some of the old ways alive. Stories told among Tirians almost always use Old Serenian, and it isn't rare to hear everyday conversations conducted in the language. Of course, it isn't the same language as recognised by scholars, having incorporated new words and dialects to keep up with the changing world; a real, living language needs to adapt if it is not to die.

Gossip is an integral part of Tirian culture, as it forms the growing story of each community. Even the mundane facts of ordinary people's lives are worth hearing if they can be told in an interesting way, after all. Privacy, on the other hand, is something people have barely any concept of. The more a person tries to keep to themselves, the more it is assumed that they must have something juicy to hide!

Tirians tend to be thin and pale, their skin color less prone to darkening in the sun than others. This is a product of the heavy Fae blood present in the populace, which also gives them the typical Serenian colorful hair and a stronger than usual reaction to steel. Heights vary hugely among families and villages; in some areas of the province the average height for men is 5'5", while in others women might commonly reach 5'10"! While commoners do build muscle with hard physical labor, this usually gives them a wiry rather than a bulky look.

Rarely will any clothing be seen covering the mouth or ears of a Tirian, as anything that hinders conversation is considered to be hideously impractical. In contrast, gaudy earrings and bright lipsticks are the height of fashion for all those that can afford them. Bells, multiple bangles and other adornments that create a pleasing noise are permanent fixtures in Tirian fashion. Most clothes produced within the province are made of either goat or sheep wool, fashioned into light knits in keeping with the warm climate. Other fabrics may be imported, but most people don't bother.

With an almost completely Serenian populace, mingled here and there with the blood of rare but even more fantastical species, magic is common in Tirial. Most magic users that originate here find it helpful to use some kind of verbal component to control their powers, and it is not uncommon for this to be the very basis of their spells. Charms and suggestions using songs or magic words are commonplace here, and most important figures carry amulets to guard against such effects.


NOBILITY AND THE CLASS SYSTEM

The previous ruling family of Tirial was House Vergara, who had held power over the land for a few generations now. However, due to the province's slightly eccentric succession process, a number of the old families have held the position throughout their long history. These old families are heavily interconnected by marriage, and may technically be seen as one enormous clan. The individual families resort to inbreeding for periods every so often, in a bid to keep their lines separate. Rarely is an outsider brought into the fold, and these are always nobles of the very highest birth from other provinces. For a commoner to marry in is unheard of. As for children, the more the better! The larger the number of potential applicants for the next ruler, the better the chance of that family seizing power. 'Heir and a spare' doesn't work when succession is uncertain.

High Lady Amleah Dvorak was one of the rare exceptions to exceeding to her position of power. Born of lowly nobles she did not seem born to have such an opportunity. However, her mother happened to be one of those much sought after tutors to the higher noble families. Amleah and her twin brother were made to learn everything their mother knew so as to have a chance at a better life. When rumors of House Vergara's decline reached their ears, the Dvorak twins positioned themselves to allow Amleah the best chance of succeeding. In the end their hardwork paid off and Amleah won over the hearts of not only the council but her people as well.

The High Lord or Lady is expected to know the full history of the province, and to be able to recite it whenever necessary. A huge festival is held roughly once every ten years, and at the opening ceremony the ruler must sing the history in Old Serenian, adding any important events since the last time the public history was sung. The song itself may change, and has indeed been altered drastically over the years, but it must contain all the important information and, crucially, sound pleasant to all attendees. For this reason, the children of influential families concentrate especially hard on their history and singing lessons, as well as becoming fluent in the old tongue.

When the previous High Lord or Lady dies or is otherwise no longer fit to rule, a call is sent out for anyone who thinks they may be eligible for the position to come and take the succession test. There they must sing the history of Tirial for either the current ruler or their nominated adjudicator, and the applicant with the most correct and pleasing song may take the position. This process is not as egalitarian as it sounds; while peasants and bards may know the broad history and a few stories, the song is much longer and more involved than anyone could hope to learn without a specific teacher, and the general public hears it only once in a decade, at the festival. Because of this it is actually an effective test of high birth, and almost nobody but those from the oldest noble families ever has a chance at ruling.

Tirial has an extremely strict class hierarchy that has changed little in several hundred years. While all subjects are their own person by the country's law, and there is no real knight class owing to the province's geographical insulation from any military threat, the social structure is very nearly feudal in nature. Not much mixing occurs between commoners, lower nobles and the highest noble families. Bards and storytellers make up the closest thing the province has to a middle class, being almost as respected as minor nobles, although with less money, and with less secure lifestyles than the peasantry.

The lower nobility oversee the day-to-day running of the province, each family having their own area to control. They employ all peasants living on their land, and deal with the money and trade that entails. The common people almost never get to directly handle money; the nobles control all imports and exports for the region, and provide villagers with what they need. Among the people of Tirial, bartering is therefore the main form of trade and most commoners coming into money don't know how to budget, or what things are roughly worth, and so don't hang onto that money for long. Nobles are also expected to mediate legal disagreements, which are usually resolved verbally.

While this may seem to make nobles nigh untouchable, any who abuse their position have to be very careful about it, because information travels fast here and the people have high expectations of their officials. Corrupt nobles have in the past been killed by public mobs and the higher authorities do in fact allow this to happen in the name of accountability. While the upper classes have huge amounts of power, they also have a duty to serve their people well, and this must be upheld.


PEOPLE

House Dvorak

High Lady: Amleah Dvorak
Vizier: Ro'or Dvorak

Other houses are open if you want to make them! Other player-created organizations are totally welcome too - I'd imagine there would be some groups of bards, spellsingers, and things like unions for the commoners. If you come up with something awesome, post it here to let me know!