Jancis

That...is a very good point. Jancis! J and V are getting married last Saturday in November, so we'll be unavailable if it's then... *grips stripper clothes in hopes it's before then* *Also prepares the glittercannon* !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :cry::cry::cry: so happy cannot contain water It shall definitely not be the 29th!

Yes! Wait... I think you're confusing this for Menphina's pilgrimage! :blush::blush::blush: Also everyone if you missed Vaughn at the masquerade party. I loved those tights so much. If only Jancis could wear them the same way. No but that'll be fantastic I wanted to check for any specific Nophica devotees before bugging people online for their talents. :lol: I was going to ask you both over the weekend after the craziness of the week! I will get a PM going once I get to touch base with everyone once again. I was thinking that a lot of people in the States will be out and about and also that FC's will want to take this time to do special events so I'm definitely aiming for 15-16th or the 22nd-23rd. It really depends on when people who want to help out are available. So that'll be fantastic.

[align=center]"Our stories are done for this eve. All of our stories, our trades in life, our trades in death. Those dearly departed from us. You are all welcome to bring your stories to us up here and share them as you wish or speak among yourselves. Your pilgrimage is complete." [/align] [align=center]Sigurd Rainecourt: Please, come forward if you wish to say some words. It is said prayers can still be heard in Thal's halls. It is also said that offerings to Thal will help secure comfort in the afterlife. [/align] [align=center]Reinette Sompt: "To those who wish to share memories and tales, I shall be to this here the eastern portion of the cavern." [/align] [align=center]Sigurd Rainecourt: "I shall take the west. I have set up a place for offerings."[/align] [align=center][/align] [align=left]Sounsyy Mirke kneels before Sigurd Rainecourt. Sounsyy Mirke with a bowed head, Sounsyy withdraws a coinpurse and deposits a medium sum. One coin for each of her dead. She gives a bow of her head, mutters a few words under her breath, and retreats to reflect. Sigurd Rainecourt holds out the bowl for her offerings. Sigurd Rainecourt: May your loved ones find comfort among Thal's halls. Sigurd Rainecourt: May you have fortune in this life and the next. [align=center]⌘⌘⌘[/align] Coatleque Crofte clears her throat. Coatleque Crofte bows slightly to Kale. "If you would excuse me for a moment." Coatleque Crofte quietly places a small pouch into the offering bowl. Coatleque Crofte: "Thank you for your devotion in this." Coatleque Crofte bows courteously to Sigurd Rainecourt. [align=center]⌘⌘⌘[/align] Edda Eglantine approaches rather slowly, a set of old coins with hollowed centers wrapped around her wrist. "If you'd be so kind, sir, please say a prayer for my brother." She bows her head for a long moment. Sigurd Rainecourt holds out the offering bowl. "I am certain Thal will hear your prayers for your brother." Edda Eglantine drops the string of coins within with some hesitation, before smiling. "Thank you, truly. May the Twelve ever guide your steps." Sigurd Rainecourt: Nald'thal guide you in this life and the next. [align=center]⌘⌘⌘[/align] Memeli Meli holds out some gil coins to leave as offering, aiming to place them in Siggy's little plate thing. Sigurd Rainecourt kneels down to offer the plate for her. [align=center]⌘⌘⌘[/align] Annunu Nunu holds out a pouch full of gil. "Please offer prayers for the safety of Chuta Allfriend, and be my intercessor with the Merchants in this matter." Sigurd Rainecourt: May he have a comfortable passage into Thal's halls. Sigurd Rainecourt: And may Nald bring him fortune. Annunu Nunu: Hopefully no time soon, o holy one. Annunu Nunu bows courteously to Sigurd Rainecourt. [align=center]⌘⌘⌘[/align] Annouille Andouillant blinks some more in confusion, then steps forward to speak with Sigurd. Sigurd Rainecourt: Glad you could make it, Annie. Annouille Andouillant: "Thank you. It was... comforting." Sigurd Rainecourt: I'm glad you felt so. Sigurd Rainecourt: Do you wish to offer prayers for someone or for yourself? Annouille Andouillant shifts awkwardly. "I confess that... I am unfamiliar with... customs. I wanted to offer a prayer but I do not wish to act offensively..." Annouille Andouillant: Can I pray for those who have already passed? Sigurd Rainecourt: It is said that Thal's halls are lined with gold. Fortune in one's life can bring comfort afterward. Gil is customary, but Thal will hear prayers regardless. Annouille Andouillant nods slowly. "I see." Sigurd Rainecourt: If you wish to pray for good fortune in life, offer your prayers to Nald. If you wish to pray for the dead or to secure your comfort in Thal's halls, Pray to Thal. Annouille Andouillant: Thank you. [align=center]⌘⌘⌘[/align] Guillaume Rigolant peeks over Kale's shoulder. Guillaume Rigolant: ... "Lo. Kale Aideron is annoyed with Guillaume Rigolant. Sigurd Rainecourt: If you wish to pray for fortune in life, then you pray to Nald. If you wish to pray for passage into the next, then you pray to Thal. Kale Aideron: Oi... Sigurd Rainecourt: Gill, what are you doing? Guillaume Rigolant beams with delight at Kale Aideron. Guillaume Rigolant: Waitin'. Kale Aideron raises his palm slowly, and geeently places it on Guillaume's chest. He firmly but sloooowly pushes him away from him. Guillaume Rigolant 's frown grows as he's pushed back. Sigurd Rainecourt: You can come forward and make an offering or speak prayers if you like. You don't need to hide behind people. Kale Aideron grunts, "Er...Nald, then..." Kale Aideron: I 'ave...a 'undred gil to offer? Guillaume Rigolant perks up at the mention of gil. Sigurd Rainecourt holds out an offering bowl. "Certainly. Do you wish to pray for yourself or someone in particular?" Kale Aideron puts around his sword belt, finding his gil pouch. He plucks it off and drops the whole thing into the offering bowl, "Erm...myself..." Kale Aideron looks down at his feet for a moment, not wishing to draw attention to himeslf over that particular detail. Sigurd Rainecourt: May you have good fortune in this life and comfort in the next. Nald'thal grant you fortune. Kale Aideron is not familiar with religious ceremony. He just stands there for an extra second or three, "Ah, that's it?" Sigurd Rainecourt: Unless you wished to say a few words. (sorry I missed that at first) Sigurd Rainecourt: it is said that your soul will be weighed by gil in the halls of Thal. Gil will secure comfort in the afterlife and offer you good fortune in life. Kale Aideron seemed to have interpreted Sigurd's role as some sort of fortuneteller. He realizes this, and smiles politely, shaking his head, "No...thank you for the blessin', sir..." Sigurd Rainecourt isn't anything like the sort. Sorry to disappoint. "May Nald'thal bring you fortune." Kale Aideron bows courteously to Sigurd Rainecourt. Kale Aideron gently pats Eskandar. Kale Aideron returns, blinking a bit at the experience of having his prayer, "Well, 'opefully that 'undred gil goes somewhere..." Kale Aideron lets his attention drift back to Eskandar, not wanting to intrude on the conversation, "I should 'ave you wait outside..." [align=center]⌘⌘⌘[/align] T'ahl Tia: ..I have a question. Sigurd Rainecourt: Certainly. T'ahl Tia: The offerings. What are they used for? You.. do not really use them to line temple walls, do you..? Sigurd Rainecourt: Certainly not. That would be misusing offerings. T'ahl Tia nods. "Then, you do something useful with it?" Sigurd Rainecourt: Certainly no offerings are wasted. Everything is used to properly honor Nald'thal so that those prayers for fortune will be answered. T'ahl Tia: That does not mean polishing them, though, right? This is near Ul'dah, so-- Sigurd Rainecourt: The Order of Nald'thal has no connections with the monetarists, if that's what you mean. T'ahl Tia nods, looking somewhat relieved. "That was a worry." Sigurd Rainecourt: The Order is independent. I was concerned about that at first too. T'ahl Tia: It is sort of.. I mean. It is Ul'dah, so-- it is easy to wonder? I suppose. Sigurd Rainecourt: I've lived in Thanalan all my life. It's always a concern. But now that I work closely with the Ossuary, I don't worry about it anymore. T'ahl Tia: I mean, there is a certain reputation, so, it is not out of the realm of-- so. I am glad to hear, that. It is not. T'ahl Tia nods. "I lived here a few years. It sort of put me on edge." T'ahl Tia blinks. "Right! I should leave an offering, then--" He carefully places the gil while saying a short prayer. Sigurd Rainecourt: I consider myself a loyalist, personally, but I haven't really run into much trouble with the monetarists. Pay my taxes, follow the laws, offer my prayers. Sigurd Rainecourt holds out the offering bowl. "Pray to Nald for fortune in life and Nald for comfort in the next" T'ahl Tia: They will not mind it, will they, if you pray for comfort for animals..? Sigurd Rainecourt: I see no reason they would. T'ahl Tia nods. "Good. This-- do you do this often? I mean, holding ceremonies here?" Sigurd Rainecourt: It is the first time, but I hope we'll have more. Jancis might know more since she organized the whole thing. T'ahl Tia beams. "I hope so, too. I would come. It was-- comforting." Sigurd Rainecourt: She's across the room in a red and black robe with a red cane. T'ahl Tia looks over his shoulder. "I should thank her, then. Thank you, for-- taking your time." Sigurd Rainecourt: Certainly. I'm happy to help people and their loved ones. T'ahl Tia: ..Does tapirs count as loved ones, in your mind? Sigurd Rainecourt: I'd think so. I know some who love their pets as much as one might love a child. T'ahl Tia nods. "She is more family than a pet, really, so." T'ahl Tia: Thank you. I should go voer there and-- thank some more people? T'ahl Tia has poor social skills, and sort of wanders off. Sigurd Rainecourt: Go well and may Nald'thal grant you fortune. [align=center]Sigurd Rainecourt places the remaining offerings in the jar and offers more prayers for all those who prayed.[/align] [/align]

Trick or Cute?

The music played on and Xenedra stepped up in front of all the pilgrims, with little introduction, her bold movements expressing her story with much ferver. [align=center][/align] [align=center] My tale both ends and begins here in a manner of speaking.[/align] [align=center] Not far southwest of here, long ago, lived a pair of brothers. They were farmers, aldgoat herds specifically, and the only thing they loved more than their flock was each other.[/align] [align=center] Thanalan has never been lacking in *some* greenery, but we must admit, it can be sparse. Especially when it comes to a herd of hungry aldgoats.[/align] [align=center]Xenedra Ambreaus grins broadly.[/align] [align=center]⌘⌘⌘[/align] [align=center] So, each day when the brothers rose, they readied themselves for a journey out of the valley in which Halatali used to lie in to either the market to the northwest or to the highlands along the border of the Black Shroud.[/align] [align=center] The trip was much more perilous then, drakes and ogres wandered the area along the Burning Wall freely, but the brothers were not without their own defenses. Magic and herder's crooks were their defenses and they used them masterfully, never losing one Nanny or Billy in all their years.[/align] [align=center] However, while drakes and ogres aren't known for their strategy, people are, and on one of their routine trips to the Shroud the brother came across an obstacle they'd never met before...[/align] [align=center][/align] [align=center] Miqo'te, dark and dappled as the wood itself, slunk from the trees and rose up amoungst the aldgoats as if from no where.[/align] [align=center]Xenedra Ambreaus slinks a circle at the foot of the "stage."[/align] [align=center] They STRUCK the beasts-![/align] [align=center]Xenedra Ambreaus stabs her empty fist in three quick motions in the air in front of her.[/align] [align=center] -felling three before the brothers were even aware of their presense, and another still, before the pair were able to fight back.[/align] [align=center] The battle was brief, resulting in seven dead from the flock and the rest scattered. The Miqo'te slithered back into the woods, their pray dragged along behind them, leaving only the defeated brothers.[/align] [align=center]⌘⌘⌘[/align] [align=center] Adding insult to injury, a harsh wind picked up and pelted them with sand.[/align] [align=center]Xenedra Ambreaus lifts her arms to block the would-be sandstorm.[/align] [align=center] They dragged themselves to their feet and hobbled Northward in search of shelter. It didn't take them long before they found a narrow path in the cliff face and they followed it to a cave, dim and chilling, but none-the-less sheltering.[/align] [align=center]Xenedra Ambreaus looks around a bit obviously.[/align] [align=center]Xenedra Ambreaus flops to the ground without grace.[/align] [align=center][/align] [align=center] As a unit, they sunk to the floor, exhausted, but one sunk further, more stiffly, more drained. His sibling, urged on by panic, flew to his knees at the fallen's side and at last saw the damage the raiding clan had done.[/align] [align=center] His brother was slit shoulder to hip, an ugly red gash still steadily seeping the first's life blood...[/align] [align=center] For the next several minutes, one brother tried desperately to save the other with his limited medical knowledge, only to watch him fade and die.[/align] [align=center] Numbness overtook him and he simply sat and stared at the person that had meant the most to him in all the world.[/align] [align=center]Xenedra Ambreaus gazes off blankly into the distance.[/align] [align=center] Time passed, an eternity to the one left behind. Footsteps echoed softly and stopped in front of the brothers' forms, waiting patiently.[/align] [align=center] Then NOT so patiently.[/align] [align=center]⌘⌘⌘[/align] [align=center]Xenedra Ambreaus gets to her feet, dusts herself off and snaps brusquely to the spot on the floor where she'd been. "Mortal, I haven't the time for you to wallow in your sorrows. Say your goodbyes so that I may go."[/align] [align=center] Confused, the remaining brother lifted his head to take in what his soul told him must be the visage of Nymeia.[/align] [align=center] In those days, not only was Nymeia the purveyor of all things celestial and determiner of fate, she also had to handle all the matters of the underworld. Needless to say, she was a very busy woman with very little patience.[/align] [align=center]Xenedra Ambreaus holds up a hand, pinching a tiny bit of patience between her thumb and forefinger.[/align] [align=center] Stunned, the brother could say nothing to the Goddess and her patience grew even thinner.[/align] [align=center] "I do not have time for this."[/align] [align=center]Xenedra Ambreaus informs the crowd curtly and turns on her heel. "I will return in a day's time. Prepare your brother and say your goodbyes or you will doom his soul to remain here." She marches off a few steps, then turns back.[/align] [align=center] And with that, she was gone.[/align] [align=center] [/align] [align=center] The remaining brother did as the Goddess bid him, all the while turning her words over in his head. When she returned the next day and approached his brother, he barred her path. Her expression grew dark.[/align] [align=center]Xenedra Ambreaus clasps her hands together, begging.[/align] [align=center] "Please, My Lady Fate, hear me out before you go. I know your time is precious, but I will be brief. It is clear to me that you barely have enough time to see to all the duties that the Heavens have placed upon your shoulders. Yesterday I lost everything precious to me in life. Let me offer my service to you. Let me take the burden of collecting and guiding soul to the underworld."[/align] [align=center]⌘⌘⌘ [/align] [align=center] The proposition gave the Goddess pause. Her eye grew wide with recognition.[/align] [align=center]Xenedra Ambreaus widens her eyes in a similar expression, though she is grinning.[/align] [align=center] "What makes you think you're capable, mortal..?" she asked, curiousity and a little something more apparent in her voice... Hope? Excitement?[/align] [align=center] "I have been a goatherd all my life, my Lady. I have the skills to tend a flock."[/align] [align=center] She Who Knows Fate watched the goatherd for a while, saw him for what he was and nodded. "It would seem that you were made for this task, Brother. But the Heavens know you cannot follow this path alone-"[/align] [align=center] "My Lady-!"[/align] [align=center] She arched a brow at him and he was silenced.[/align] [align=center]⌘⌘⌘[/align] [align=center] "Another must aid you in your task for all the days to come and beyond. Who would you name?"[/align] [align=center] The brother looked solemnly at the still form at his feet. "I would name my brother."[/align] [align=center] Nymeia smiled a knowing smile and nodded. "So it shall be."[/align] [align=center] And the fallen brother was made to rise again.[/align] [align=center]Xenedra Ambreaus lifts one hand from the floor toward the ceiling, following it with her eyes.[/align] [align=center] The Goddess continued as the brothers held one another and wept at their unlikely reunion. "You must be an example to the people of this land, our flock, in all matters of commerce and guide them when the time comes to their final rests. As one you will be a balance in this world. I welcome you, Nald, Thal." ⌘⌘⌘ [/align] [align=center] And so their story begins.[/align] [align=center]Xenedra Ambreaus drops a curtsy.[/align]

Because of so many requests to do more pilgrimages after the Nald'thal event, I'm recruiting people who are interested in helping host and perform in an event in November for Nophica. Key point for this event is it must be on a weekend and the time will be evening/night for Europe, so availability to perform has to fit into that time slot. Please reply here or send me a PM if you have any ideas or would like to help out. Priests/Conjurers: Anyone with stories about or inspired by the Matron. Also does not have to tell stories, but be available after the performances to talk to people and lead prayer. Bards: Looking for some lovely harvest music Dancers: Anyone who wants to add to the ambiance as a dancer please let me know. Must know harvest dance. There will be clothes to wear for it that will be provided. Any other ideas of inspiration that would fit into the theme please let me know I will PM my brainstorms and make it work!

More pilgrims arrived, ushered in by the guards who watched both the tunnel and the people within. Their presence gave the pilgrims peace. One was fatigued, making it despite his own troubles, though at times a yawn could be heard coming from him now and then in the lull. But still he watched the door. The tallest of the guards watched the door, a strong presence to see with the tired pilgrims who caught up to make the event. Stoic and absently intimidating, he proved kindness as well, welcoming all to come in and not linger in the back as if punished. The two other guards watched over the scene and the performances. One a lady, her red hair trying to escape her helm and clearly use to standing in one place to watch people. Though attentive, her demeanor was serene. And the other guard, a miqo'te with a disarming smile only anchored in the fact that this was a safe place. This was a place to reflect and worship without fears. [align=center]The two bards continued to play the melodic music. Introductions were kept short and Chuta with his grin said his thank yous as Garryson stepped up to share his words.[/align] [align=center][/align] [align=center] "It is an honor and a privilege 'ta stand before ya today. My name is Garryson Shipkeeper, founder of the XI:7 corporation. We are 'ere 'ta honor one of the Twelve, and whenever we speak of the gods, there is a certain amount 'ta faith involved. That is what I'd like 'ta speak to you about today. To me, the essence of faith can be explained with three simple words: "But if not." ⌘⌘⌘ These words were taught 'ta me by me 'ol Cap'n when I was a younger lad. While I was with 'im, he reflected often on our relationship with the gods. He had a faith... an assurance, that we admired. He was utterly convinced there was somethin' greater than each of us as individuals. ⌘⌘⌘ "Cap'n's final days taught me how 'ta believe despite the world around us. Cap'n had a price put on 'is head, and we were hunted. Through the thick of it all, 'e never lost 'is faith. He always told us that the gods would bless us, but if they didn't... we would fight anyway. To 'im, faith was not waitin' fer a miracle 'ta prove somethin' to us. It was livin' yer life with confidence, and becomin' better each day. ⌘⌘⌘ "We're told stories of the gods walkin' among men in ages long past. Whether they're true or not... its hard 'ta tell. The gods might be real. They might not. I think what is more important is how we lead our lives. This is the age of man. We do not study the divine 'ta mimic what they do. Rather... we study them 'ta become what they are. ⌘⌘⌘ "I, for one, hope that Thal was waitin' 'ta meet my mother. I hope Da had someone 'ta guide him. I hope that me crew dined with him, and told stories of our times together. I hope and pray that everyone has a chance 'ta rest in the life 'ta come. ⌘⌘⌘ "But if not... I hope you all still live yer lives with confidence. Believe in somethin' larger than yerself. We live in a realm full 'a death and corruption. We barely held on after the Calamity, and it is going 'ta take more than a few good men 'ta rebuild our realm into somethin' truly great. See past yerselves and envision a realm where our children can live confidently. ⌘⌘⌘ "I thank you fer lettin' me speak with you today. I pray that the Twelve guide each of you as yer stories are written. I look forward 'ta the day we may finally put down our weapons, and tell our stories. [/align] [align=center][/align]

This is the exact same conversation you both had in Mumble that one time...

Jancis made her way down the lane during the day. Some of the little ones where playing with rocks and marbles in the street, waving as the conjurer came by. She did not come empty-handed, per usual, and had many sweet breads and dried fruit to share. But as always, they asked about Hero Franz! Jancis looked down on their faces. Thaliak would be dishonored with lies, and so she did tell them the truth. Sparing the worst details, she told them what had happened. "Forgive me, little ones, dare say Hero Franz has much to help repair and rebuild from. But he is a strong man of good heart." The children all spoke up, one after another, "I have a good heart!" "Me too!" "I 'anna help!" Excited, they all asked Jancis for parchment and many oil pastels of all the colors possible. They would at least draw something to cheer up their hero and let him know, as well as his house, that he was a good guy. [[OOC Part]] Hello! If anyone read over the story about the perilous pudding. http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=8071 They might know how Franz saved Missus Cornelia Snickerdoodle the rat for all the little kids in Ul'dah that love her. http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=5431&pid=107288&highlight=children#pid107288 Considering they drew one picture for him before. After all that's happened, Franz got drunk and sad! And Jancis has told the kids about it! Anyone who wants to draw a picture to cheer up their hero, Franz, feel free to post it here. Paint, by hand, or even an description of the painting is good! We need kids! Feel free to post as one and cheer up Franz! After all, if the children don't show their heroes encouragement, who will?!

Got to dabble with the Red Wings in the wee hours of the morning. Playing dress up is fun. Think that says enough.:lol: Thanks for letting me observe and even share a few comments on what looks like a grand adventure. I got some screenshots to share later when I'm not goofing around at work. :blush:

Maybe if they were cuddling. :blush:

The pilgrims were heartened and settled quickly, listening to Leanne's song. As the last notes echo-ed in the cavern, a soft clapping followed. Leanne Delphium takes a deep breath. It seemed like a weight has lifted from her shoulders. [align=center]"Lord, please come forward."[/align] [align=center]"And grace us with your melody to lighten our spirits further this night."[/align] [align=center] [/align] [align=center]Vaughn Antain removes the stylized mahogany lapharp from his side, tuning it a moment while looking to Jaques with a smile before plucking it's strings.[/align] [align=center]♪ ♬ ♩ ♫ ♩ ♬ ♪♪ ♬ ♩ ♫ ♩ ♬ ♪♪ ♬ ♩ ♫ ♩ ♬ ♪♪ ♬ ♩ ♫ ♩ ♬ ♪♪ ♬ ♩ ♫ ♩ ♬ ♪♪ ♬ ♩ ♫ ♩ ♬ ♪♪ ♬ ♩ ♫ ♩ ♬ ♪[/align] [align=center]uuomEfenx_8 [/align] [align=center]♪ ♬ ♩ ♫ ♩ ♬ ♪♪ ♬ ♩ ♫ ♩ ♬ ♪♪ ♬ ♩ ♫ ♩ ♬ ♪♪ ♬ ♩ ♫ ♩ ♬ ♪♪ ♬ ♩ ♫ ♩ ♬ ♪♪ ♬ ♩ ♫ ♩ ♬ ♪♪ ♬ ♩ ♫ ♩ ♬ ♪[/align] [align=center]"Now to honor us with a story and thoughts, Lord if you will be so kind." Vaughn Antain looks hesitant before saying, "I would think another would tell better stories, but I shall keep the mood." Vaughn Antain nods to Chuta Allfriend. Leanne Delphium smiles. "Lemme accompany you, Mr. Vaughn." Chuta Allfriend points to himself and looks around. "This humble servant? Oh, alright. I guess if'n you need a story, I can think of one." [/align] [align=center] "Show'a hand for the music, hm? I know it takes a bit of doin' to keep on keepin' on while someone else rambles, hm?" Chuta Allfriend grins. "Rough crowd tonight. Tha's alright thought. I've got a story to the beginning of everything we think we sort of know, somethin' that goes way back to the Twelve when they were still figurin' out they weren't thirteen." ⌘⌘⌘ "Now, I wasn't born in the visage of Nald OR Thal, and it's worth mentionin'. They're not one person, but two aspects. Course, back when the Twelve first realized they were somethin' else, no one recognized it." "Rhalgr rose up and spoke loudest. 'I'm Rhalgr, and my enemies are destroyed!' An' course, besides him, Halone spoke up. She IS the Fury, afterall."[/align] [align=center]⌘⌘⌘ "An' so the Twelve," he said, whispering in a stage aside behind his hand, "though they were really Thirteen, then, they decided to show off and figure out who was the greatest amongst 'em all." Now, Nald and Thal were simple traders. They were learned of coins and commerce, an' they knew that those sorts of things didn't interested most anyone." "So they proposed to their fellow Twelve. 'How's about we have a show to show who's the greatest?' And their peers answered, lining up to show off to everyone else how great they were. ⌘⌘⌘ "First in line was Halone, and Nald stopped her before making her claim. 'Let us hold your spears, so you might be unburdened.' And she did, and then she spoke to the People how she might save them. Nald, however, just handed the spears to Thal." "Behind her was Menphina, and before letting her speak Nald asked for her skillet. And while she spoke of how she might tend the People, Thal placed her skillet away for safe-keeping." "So and so they went. Thaliak left his books. Nymeia, her wave. Llymelan left her harpoon, and Oschon his staff." "Bryegot left his hammer and Rhalgr his staff, Azeyma her fan. Nophica's scythe remained behind, and Althyk left his greataxe." "Finally, Nald and Thal wheeled out a collection of their peers' greatest gifts ans symbols and beseeched the people. "Though we may be but simply traders," they said, " Look upon our works, and see that all powerful must offer payment before being free to speak." ⌘⌘⌘ "Nald and Thal, brothers true and happiest when working together, showed that day that despite someone's worth, despite their wisdom, despite their might... All must pay their tribute to the Traders. And so it has been hence forth, for no one thinks to outwit those who have tricked the Twelve." "Be mindful of your gil, friends." He smiles, looking about the crowd. "You all know where portions of it are due." ⌘⌘⌘ Chuta Allfriend bows.[/align]

cast her out cast her out into the cold so that she can think about what she's done Aww that's not nice. It's not so much the muscles, it's the hand reaching... out... *faint*

Jancis found that out the hard way.

This was titled drunk Frankenstein. There is a lot of mischief in the air... :dazed:

At long last, out of the storming rain that pelted against them, as if trying to hold them back, the pilgrims made it to Thal's Respite. The cavern was lit and clean, the water inside crisp and clear. Incense lingered in the still air of the cave bring a sense of serenity and solace that a place of worship, especially for the departed, called for. The pilgrims all made room for each other in the cavern, outside of the calming waters that surrounded the enclosure. Some weary from the trip sat down together in groups and others stood. The bells rang once again. [align=center][/align] "It is with gracious heart we start the night with some music." "Lady, would you please honor us and honor the Trader with your song." Leanne Delphium flaps her fancy hat for a moment, trying to dry it before stepping forward. She bows first to Jancis, and afterwards to the crowd. "Hello, fellow pilgrims...! Name's Leanne Delphium, seasoned adventurer, owner of a fancy hat, and also, a pilgrim like all of you." she giggles. "Pardon this young poet, and her perhaps bad lyrics...all I mean to is share this tale..." she pulls her bow-harp, craddling her instrument with love. Closing her eyes, she start plucking gentle, loose notes, giving background to her little tune. [align=center][/align] [align=center]♪ ♬ ♩ ♫ ♩ ♬ ♪[/align] [align=center]Long long ago, a child was about. His dreams were chaotic, disordered, uncontrolled. One day he was an warrior, valiant and fearless. Other day he was an sorcerer, wise and intelligent. There was days he was a gatherer, taking from the land it's bounty. As well as days he was a builder, meticulous and analytical. One of these days, he found an old, old brick. He showed it to his grandpa, eyes full of wonder. With a warm smile, the parent told the child. Of a story, very important, a lesson for life. From all the wise words, a singular phrase stuck. Blessed be Nald'thal, blessed be The Trader. ♪ ♬ ♩ ♫ ♩ ♬ ♪ Years years later, an young adult was about. His dreams had a form, a body and a soul. He began to build his first house, with the brick he had found. Sweat, tears and blood, sacrifices for the land. As the home was ready proud filled the grown man. Prouder became the man, when the land began to prosper. For a single house became two, for a single person became ten. For two houses became twenty, ten person became several. All inhabitants were happy and cheerful. The coin circled around, in riches a town was found. Everybody came curious, curious about this land. Curious about it's founder, and his powerful secret. What said the man, when asked about the success? Blessed be Nald'thal, blessed be The Trader. ♪ ♬ ♩ ♫ ♩ ♬ ♪ Years years afterwards, a town became a city. Full of gold, silver and a thousand good souls. It's symbol, the cowry, it's flag, a balance. It lorded over commerce, it lorded over the underworld. In the center was an old man, very wise, very smart. Through course of life he saw, the fruits of his labor. Sweat, tears and blood, sacrifices for the land. Valiant and fearless, wise and intelligent, meticulous and analytical. Such was the qualities of his people. One of these days, his grandson came to him. He had found a brick, eyes full of wonder. With a warm smile, the parent told the child. Of a story, very important, a lesson for life. From all the wise words, a singular phrase stuck. Blessed be Nald'thal, blessed be The Trader. [/align] [align=center]♪ ♬ ♩ ♫ ♩ ♬ ♪[/align]

((Again big Thank You to everyone who participated, performed, and helped keep the event moving so well. I will continue to reply with new excerpts from the night over the next few days.)) The winds swept over the valley in Eastern Thanalan over the merchant stop of Highbridge. For the past fortnight pilgrims and travelers had been making their way to this destination from far and wide. A storm was approaching, but the spirits of the faithful and the determined would carry on despite rain for themselves and for each other. [align=center] *The handbell rings out across the stonework and canyons* Pilgrims, welcome one and all."[/align] [align=center] "We have gathered here in celebration of the Traders! Our lives, our families, our goals and dreams all a pilgrimage in its own right. That you sacrifice this time to be together for yourselves and your kin speak volumes of your character."[/align] [align=center] "Let not your fears be, stand by the guards and see their strength. Let not the rain shower your faith! Onward, pilgrims!" *the bell chimes, leading the progression*[/align] [align=center][/align] [align=center] "The point of traveling is not" "To arrive but to return home" "Laden with pollen you shall work up" "Into honey the mind feeds on."[/align] [align=center][/align] [align=center] *rings the bell steady* "Pilgrims are persons in motion – passing through territories not their own – seeking something we might call contemplation, or perhaps the word clarity will do as well, a goal to which only the spirit’s compass points the way."[/align] [align=center][/align] [align=center] "Pray help the elderly, help the young, we all make our pilgrimage as one."[/align]

[22:47][4] Crofte broke Zac. [22:47][4] That'll happen. [22:48][4] That's what happens when you try to have a battle of wits while unarmed. [22:48][4] *flees* [22:48][4] oh snap [22:48][4] Zing [22:48][4] I WILL BE THE END OF YOU, BITCH! COUNT YOUR DAYS!! [22:48][4] B.U.R.N. [22:48][4] lmfao [22:48][4] But admit it, I made at least one or two fair points. [22:48][4] Crofte for the pain lol [align=center][/align]

Letter delivered to the Sworn office for Lady Crofte Dear Cici, I was so happy to see you again at Bronze Lake. The past sevenday must be so hard upon you and, at the very least, I am so comforted to see you as much as I have afterwards. I will not lie. I was in so much pain. Was physical and upon my heart. Is odd when one had a bit of tending, the other would be sore. The night after the pilgrimage my body ached and it was all I could do to stand. Sir Vashyr noticed it and did insist upon staying near. I would have written you sooner had he not bid me to sleep. He managed to secure a room in Drybone for the night, much as there are no fond memories in that place, perhaps there is one now. His smile is strangely disarming yet assuring all at once. I feel so comfortable in his presence it is easy to find rest. There is something very assuring about him and he acts truly like a paladin you could be proud of. He is strong, but does not extert it at every moment. I only wish he did not hold me with such reverence for the favor I did Turns ago. Still, I hurt. It was bad, Cici. Lady Reinette and Lady Meli worked extensively with me to help my body recover to the point it is now and I will be glad to visit you in the Jewel again. I feel remiss to leave you to deal with so much turmoil; it is different from the cults before. It feels far more personal and complicated this time. I heard word you spoke to Sir Iron. He told me not of his plans beyond the simple mention of your name and that he cannot afford to fail you. He always speaks of failure. It confuses me; is it a practice to berate oneself so severely? To always foreshadow in doubt and repression? The man eagerly shows examples of his accomplishments when giving advice to others, but when it is about himself it is as if they did not exist. We found him in the desert wasting away. I could see the wear and tear upon his frame once he took off the sand-encrusted armor. Lady Reinette and Master Sigurd were crucial in talking the man into coming to the Still Shore and I am glad he has been here. I have learned much about him, least of all that he is nothing. This past night Lady Edda and Master Franz did also come. I have been made starkly aware of how much Sir Iron has avoided his life. Lady Edda's scornful and empty words were much unbecoming the lady I have seen before and I can only imagine what Master Franz has been holding up with on his shoulders of late. I wonder if the children would like to know their hero could use some encouragement? Maybe some words from them will help in that regard. I am glad you are bringing that part of Sir Iron's life back into awareness for him. Much as I enjoy his company while cooking and the like, I dare not enable him to leave all those he left behind. Surely other bad tidings will come and then where shall he run to? I did overhear his words to you about a dream, where he ran and no matter which door he opened, it only led to nowhere. That he could turn back around and stop looking for ways to run... I do wonder what he would see. I will come find you soon. I wish to confront this "Miss Ridah" you mentioned and find out what duress she was under to resort to using force. So many things went wrong that day. So many. Be Safe, Jancis

The biggest hurdle for me on the level front is I'll typically take the character for being a new player and kind of green to the community. I realize it can be an alt, but that is usually cleared up after talking for a bit. It's more of an OOC "how much time am I going to devote to this new player" and "how far am I willing to participate" as opposed to how powerful their character is suppose to be. I probably wouldn't try to fight them if the topic came up. But otherwise at a glance for myself: NPC civilians are kind of a 1-10, guards/sailors 10-20, elite guards 20-30, veteran military 30-40, then there's people like us hero-types or super bad guys in the 40-50... just as a very rough comparison to the in-game level system. Yay we're special! The cream of the crop! A different kind of "level" I also dabble with on a persona is the character's age. Typically someone who is older and has survived to reach those semi-golden years (more middle-age really) I would consider more of a veteran fighter/caster/etc-er than a young adult and overall stronger. Example I've seen at competition events before is the 30something fighter will "stand down" and yield impressed by the rambunctious 20something upstart as opposed to being completely out of breath and beaten to a pulp, collapsed unconscious like a knock out fight. Or at least give them more leeway in the part of I was an axe swinger for years and while working for so-and-so learned quite a bit about hand-to-hand combat, or whatever said extra skills are. And the examples above with L'yhta is lovely because I enjoy the whole JoaT vs One Specific mastery. Kind of the idea that every character has 100% to give to anything so it is 80% conjurer/20%arcanist, 50%lancer/50%leatherworker, 70%healer/10%alchemist/10%weaver/10%chef. It also goes a long way to feeling better about win vs losing. We're on a level way over the common man, but to each other... we're all pretty much peers one way or another.

I loved NWN! Granted I only played on one PW for years called RoME, but it really was a great community just like you said for the creativity and travel and making worlds. I think that's a big thing missing in the MMORPG because the GM can't make a special area or a special spawn for an event like in those other settings. The seasonal events look fantastic, but there was that charm of having people swap over and be the DM for the night with a little more as far as tools are concerned. Events are still fun here, just a tad different.

[23:19][7] Hey hey. Hey. Do you know what Raubahn wears to the beach? [23:19][7] Raubahnana Hammock [23:19][7] Burn the journalist!

All the beautiful Greek names! I think the simplest characters turn out to be the best because they can develop and grow. Welcome to the forum board. There are Gilgamesh-specific linkshell posts and there is also some events to head to and participate in or at least observe others role playing to warm up to the idea. http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/forumdisplay.php?fid=15&filtertf_srvr=Gilgamesh In fact there's something tomorrow I saw on the calendar. http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/calendar.php?action=event&eid=232 Welcome aboard!

Why? Why is this still okay? Ever since the Judgement set in WoW I have been disgusted with Paladins in dresses. Why must this still be a thing? Don't get me wrong, I would be okay with Crofte wearing some kind of armored dress as formal attire. I've tried matching the spring dress with the Gallant set, but it just doesn't look right. Free-flowing cloth is NOT good for combat situations Even for this pressed ham? No healing pants required here.