Martiallais

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Kudos to everyone that came out for a bit of partly planned Starlight (Christmas special-y) RP in the Brume/Forgotten Knight. What started as something small ended up growing and being a ton of fun.

You can toss Aedan Steelweaver into the hat for Oliphant fun 8-)

Haven't posted here in a little bit so pardon the mass o'screenies! A cozy, quiet dinner away for Ellie and Mar. RC & Brave on their wedding day! Random pony lineup in Idyllshire. Mar has had it with your drop rates, Alex. Aedan Claus and Saga the Pink Nosed Reindeer And a not-so-knightly chat in the Forgotten Knight between Mar and Eva.

I went ahead and did this for Martiallais then Aedan. "So far you are on the "Nice" list, but you'd better watch out... Santa's checking his list twice!" "2 words: Naughty List. You know why Aedan Steelweaver." Seems accurate.

I'm keeping an eye out on this, hopefully I'll be able to make it this time!

Alright, insecurity ramble mode go! I think my biggest uncertainty/insecurity comes from having ideas for things (events, plots, even an FC) but wondering if they're interesting or fun enough to get any interest at all behind them. The last time I ran a plot with my FC, I literally was a ball of stress and worry that it'd be some uninspired trash tier story. I mean I definitely wonder/doubt about my characters and how interesting/engaging they are, along with my writing (oh man, my writing LOL I feel so rusty). I (still) don't have wiki pages up (which is my fault, another insecurity dealing with writing there) so I have to try to hook people through RP or general chatter which does and doesn't always work as my characters don't go spilling their life stories within the first two or three meetings. Speaking of, I've worried now and then, even with Ishgard being open and playable and all that, if playing a knight (a simple, lowborn, archetypal knight of sorts) is just too boring/not what people look to include, even as a side/background character. It's not an edgy dark knight. It's not some Not-Game-of-Thrones styled noble or even a dragoon. (none of which I'm knocking, just a comparison/statement). To a somewhat lesser extent, I wonder now and then how I'm perceived. I know there's at least one person out there (*waves*) who has a rather passionate dislike of yours truly (oh the Guild Wars 2 days...) so when I interact with someone new a small part of me wonders if I'm fighting against xyz opinion/thoughts on me already. SO yeah. Those and a lot of the ones that have already been mentioned. @_@

Transform and roll out! But seriously, since it came up in LS chat last night that there are a few Transformers fans hanging about, I thought it'd be a good idea to make a thread where we can share favorites bots/moments, vids, and all the other nerdy goodness. Speaking for myself, I grew up on Transformers since my dad was into it and even as a little Mar, it was actually the only show I was allowed to watch before my homework was finished after school each day. I had tons of them growing up (child of the 80s here) and while I've lost a lot of them there are still a few that I have hanging around to this day (like a G1 reprint Jazz 8-) ). As for me, my faves are Jazz and Ultra Magnus, the latter usually being my avatar on things like Steam and such.

Just posting this as it came up in chat with Warren. I've got some old CoH buddies who I'll be playing this with in between the ending of one game and beginning of another. The system it runs off is pretty easy to pick up and seems like it's going to be a lot of fun. http://ndpdesign.com/wwwrpg/

Usually I'm just fine with watching these threads and helping where I can (Mar hasn't done any coils yet but I can definitely offer myself as a tank!) BUUUUT...now that I know the Odin trial drops the armor, I'd like that for Starlight. I've actually not cleared the trial OR fought the FATE before SO...yeah. I'm out of town from Friday -> Sunday but otherwise run on a pretty okay EST schedule (on around 8/9pm - 1-2am depending).

Rivienne Delacroux

After a few near ships that stopped in the docks, the ship with Mar and Ellie is one that keeps sailing strong.

He'd remained silent as they departed, eyes occasionally shifting to peer at one of the many who took note of the pair with each step they took. Ever one given to muted displays of emotion, if any, outside of close friends and allies, Martiallais' face was an almost blank mask until he was satisfied that they were, for the time, out of earshot. A short look around them confirmed that other than those with business near the gaol, they were alone. Like ice issuing forth several resounding cracks before falling free, the knight dropped his head, raising a gauntlet covered palm to his face. With long, ebon strands of hair completing the illusion of hiding himself, the knight exhaled then gasped in near frantic breaths. He had gambled and Steel Wolf's freedom was proof that he had certainly won the battle but as lingering, panicked thoughts pulled at him from multiple angles, he could not help but feel a larger, more personal war looming. One in which he was at a decidedly distinct disadvantage. In truth, he was only barely aware of Steel's words behind him but their intent served as a reminder. Someone, more than one someone even, still needed help. It was, as always, like a clarion call to him, for better or worse. Lowering his hand, he drew one last breath before he turned around slowly, the mask once more in place. "I would do no such thing. Asking you to leave now would mean all our efforts until this point were futile." Looking up towards the ever present clouds, he drew one last calming breath. "Other than one, you have no need to concern yourself with the favors used. I trust, however, you will act with more...consideration for repercussions of your actions going forward." Pausing, he briefly quieted, letting his attention rest squarely upon the taller woman. "Such was a once in a lifetime performance. I would not attempt to repeat it even with the Lord Commander's blessing." Still, he offered her a faint smile, tilting his head slightly as traces of warmth began to seep back into his tone. "However, before you resume your duties, might I suggest a bath? I imagine the gaol has not smiled upon you favorably in regards to presenting oneself." Motioning for Steel to follow him, he acted as both guide and escort, ensuring that, for the time being, the Roegadyn would be free from overt harassment. "Once you have rested and eaten, I suggest speaking with a Doctor Bresson within the Brume. She will not be difficult to locate, thankfully." Pausing near a fountain, he nodded towards a nearby inn before turning back to face her. "She provided a lead that I was...unable to fully investigate. Mayhaps you will have more luck in that arena." A half hearted smile lightened his features but only barely. "And, as it turns out, you may repay the favor owed her in my stead. I trust that will suffice?"

August 16th's lucky heist flick/birthday gang is: -Madonna -Steve Carell -Angela Bassett -James Cameron -Kathy Lee Gifford

Hands down one of my favorite folks here! Despite schedule shenanigans, I enjoy every time I get to kick it with Steel whether it's ingame RP, PvE craziness, or just chit chatting. Truly an all around great friend I wouldn't have had without this game and forum.

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Thank goodness this post had multiple options. I'm a fan of plot/story arc based RP (whether they're long or short arcs), definitely down for throwing in some dice DnD style, drama, combat...the list goes on and on. Slice of life is fun in little pieces (hehe) but depending on the character it's not really something I gravitate towards. I mostly have to echo what's been said already, stories that include moments that define or change characters or being able to come to the end of an arc and look back to see not only the epic, saving the day sort of things but also the times that helped build upon relationships and interactions between characters.

I absolutely approve of this ship, and hereby christen it HMS Roesnuggle. Aedan wants to know where he can buy a ticket to ride alongsail on this ship.

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D'awww he's so cuuuuute! Thanks for sharing Aly! I hope you're both doing great!

Bam, hug time.

Weeks. While he'd certainly hated it and had visited as oft as he was able, he had to admit that even when attempting to deceive the Ishgard bureaucratic machine, the amount of steps to make the ruse complete was just short of impressive. It made him wonder, somewhat sadly, if such things could be done only at the request of a few favors when one knew a small noble family, what then could be accomplished by those who truly held power? What sort of deceptions could they weave? And did making use of such things make him lesser? While he constantly strove to act in a manner befitting a knight, honorable and true, it was these such moments that made him question if he were truly worthy of such a calling. Exhaling quietly, Martiallais retreated from his thoughts and back to the present as the sound of attending guard's return filled his ears. "I trust you have found all to be as I said." It was far less a question than a chilly statement. He'd been reminded, more than once, that a large part of the gamble's success relied not only upon his ability to believe that he spoke the truth, but to act with enough confidence that others would believe such as well. "Indeed, Ser Heuliox. My apologies for the delay." Bowing once, the young elezen re-rolled the elegantly penned parchment and returned it to the knight before he reached for his keys. Noting the nervous pair of misses as he attempted to unlock the first gate, Martiallais cleared his throat and attempted to lighten his tone, just slightly. "Be calm, Ser. You have little to fear, I simply wish to retrieve my Lady's employee and depart." "Ah, of course Ser. Right this way." It had been some time since he'd found himself within a gaol. More oft than not his duties had kept him occupied elsewhere but the knight had not forgotten his time spent relegated to the 'honor' of guarding those confined behind bars. In his earlier times, he'd thought them to fall into only one of two categories. Those who awaited their judgement with dignity, having resolved themselves to seek atonement, no matter the cost...and those who kicked and screamed, proclaiming the right of their actions while cursing all within earshot. It was in later times, due to no small amount of personal experience, he learned of a third. The innocent. "Right this way, Ser. She resides within the fourth cell, there." Giving a nod, Martiallais followed just behind the man until the pair stood before the familiar figure within. Smiling faintly, he almost sighed with relief as the guard unlocked the cell door. "Stop. Right. There." Turning slowly, Martiallais steeled himself as the elder elezen approached, keeping his tone neutral. "Inquisitor Vierane. What a pleasant surprise to see you." "Of that I am certain."Coming to a halt before the cell, his robes swishing about angrily, the inquisitor glared down at the guard before waving his hand. "Leave us." Three sets of eyes watched as the guard bowed before hastily departing. It was only when he was well out of sight that the knight and inquisitor faced one another. "Pray explain to me what it is you believe you are doing here, Ser Heuliox." "Of course, Inquisitor."Bowing his head in deference, Martiallais handed over the parchment still held in his gauntlet before offered a slight nod to Steel. "Hmph, 'employed by Juleaux Dufresne in Limsa Lominsa then Eliane Dufrense in Ishgard'." He half heartedly read aloud while eyes skimmed the text. "How convenient. You cannot truly expect me to believe such, do you?" "Tis the truth, as requested."Martiallais gestured towards the cell with his hand, "She was recommended, from one sibling to another. And while none would wish to stand in opposition to the inquisition's wishes, she is here-" "And yet, she was seen within the Brume hiding and questioning our knights," he retorted, looking the younger, armored elezen up and down with no small amount of disdain. "Hardworking knights going about their duties. One of whom she even laid her hands upon. Would you side with outsiders against your own kin, Ser Heuloix?" Considering Vierane's words, Martiallais glanced into the cell briefly. An agitated sigh was Steel's response before he gave a shake of his head and turned his attention back to the inquisitor. "Of course not," he answered swiftly, allowing a pause before continuing on, "Inquisitor Vierane, it is my understanding that, according to reports filed upon her detainment, it was she whom was struck first." The barely stifled laugh coming from within the cell did little to stop the annoyed eye twitch nor the flush of crimson that colored the tip of the inquisitor's ears. "You would -dare- question the Inquisition?!" He stepped closer, gaze locked with the knight till the latter lowered his gaze in deference. "Of course not. I simply speak of the report given by the Inquisition itself. No more. After all, they were signed by yourself, Inquisitor Vierane." The hall fell silent save the grinding of teeth and an angry puff of breath. "By your leave, I would depart with Lady Steel then?" Reaching for the barred door, Martiallais moved to pull it open only to find it pushed closed once more by Vierane. "No. Not as of yet, you will not. Tell me then, Ser Knight, why was this -creature- within the Brume? As she refused to speak on such perhaps you can provide an explanation." Blinking several times, the duskwight caught himself before his shoulders slumped in relief. The best lies, he'd gradually learned, oft contained many morsels of truth. "Ah, of course Inquisitor. The Lady Dufrense and her family employ many and more inhabitants of the Brume within Dufresne Bellworks. Given recent events she sought to not only ensure their protection but to aid provide aid where needed for her people." Vierane scoffed, taking a step back as his hand fell from the gate. "Heretics the lot of them some would say. Mayhaps the Inquisition should turn it's eye to them instead?" Pulling open the gate steadily, the tension in Martiallais' form was clear and obvious to those well trained in such matters. "While I cannot speak to what the Inquisition should or should not do, I am certain there are far more important matters to set one's hand to than a family seeking the better-" "Seeking their own gain," Vierane interrupted once more. "Upstarts whom have sent their dog to retrieve yet another pet." Lifting his nose, he started down it's length with a smile of pleasure, noting how his words had given the knight pause. "Mayhaps they should have chosen a better pup to lay at their feet as you are no saint, Heuloix. Tis no small wonder your father and brother have cast you out, hm?" At that, the duskwight turned to face the inquisitor, lips pressed into a tight line covering clenched teeth. "Oh yes," he taunted, "true servants of the Fury never forget and I know you all too well. Now you have thrown in with those who build little more than a house of cards. When it falls, and it shall, know that I will personally see that justice lands upon your head." Swallowing hard, Martiallais remained silent and seething, anger and shame feeding upon one another as his embarrassment was all but compounded by the, literal, captive audience. Readying himself to respond, he stopped, feeling the warmth from Steel's hand upon his. Looking into her bright eyes, he watched as she shook her head slowly. There was more than a little understanding in her gaze as she spoke volumes without saying a word. Looking between the pair, Vierane gave another haughty scoff. "Make certain, Ser Heuloix, that this," he gestured with a flick of his wrist to Steel, "and whatever you believe is to occur between yourself and the Dufrense girl is 'worth it'. A rumor, is allowed to endure only so long as to be found entertaining. I do imagine her betrothed and his family will find such talk to be well worth investigating." Stepping away with a smile, the Inquisitor seemed to bask in his victory. "Go on then, take your creature and go. The two of you have provided enough entertainment for now." Giving a simple nod, Martiallais opened the door and motioned for Steel to follow him. He offered the other Elezen one last look before turning to guide the larger Roegadyn out of the gaol and back to freedom.

Giving and taking one at the same time since I need it too.

I also marathon-d through it this weekend and have to echo a lot of what you said. While it veered WAY away from the original comic stuff, I feel like they kept the essence of Jessica and the rest of the crew. For one, as I haven't seen it mentioned in the marketing, Jessica debuted in Marvel's R-rated MAX comic line and so everything you'd expect to see in some R-rated movies are present. Just...as a warning/heads up as a lot of folks were blindsided by that apparently. Also, seconded on the show not being nearly as action heavy as Daredevil so keep that in mind. I liked that they could potentially be building up Hellcat with Trish and hope to see her come into play in The Defenders. For anyone wanting to give it a go, I'd make sure you know ahead of time (as somehow this wasn't really marketed), the show is actually quite dark and deals with some very heavy themes. I won't go into my full on review that some folks on my FB feed had to deal with but I will say I definitely enjoyed the main characters, the nods to the comics and while I had my doubts initially about Krysten Ritter, she very much nails Jessica Jones. Likewise, Cage has been a favorite of mine for years so seeing him on screen was amazing. I had a few gripes but only one big one that I'll leave out for the sake of not spoiling it.