mateus [Mateus] Astrid Heartwood

[CalmFishy]

Astrid Heartwood : (CARRD)

Artwork by queenmercedes

 

Quick Facts

Full Name: Astrid Heartwood (AKA last of Lionheart)
Nickname: "Asti"
Race: Hyur/Midlander
Gender: Female
Rank: Justiciar
Profession:

• Gunbreaker/Fighter.
• She was a former traveling bard.

Age: 19 years old
Height:5 Feet
Weight: 94lbs
Marital Status: Single
Usually Found:

• She can typically be found in Ul'dah or the Goblet.
• She resides in Shirogane; 3rd Ward - Plot 9

Birthday: 3rd Sun of the 3rd Umbral Moon
Face Claim: TBD
Mount: Sunshine -Chocobo

Rumors or Known Facts:

 

• She has a Puppy, his name is Aegis. He's half Mastiff and half Shiba Inu mix. Gifted from Caircath's own puppy brood!
• She's got a thing for hot-tubs
• She seems to have an oddly vast amount of Gil laying around.
• She's fairly well known within the Golden Saucer, as it might come to no one's surprise her favorite game there is the claw machine
• She has a large plushie collection within her home.
• She's rumored to have moved to Shirogane, though spends plenty of time in the Quicksand still meeting new people!

 

 

 

 

 

Description

 

Astrid is a slender, slip of a Hyur; a sunbeam frozen midday, she has a surprising radiance, though suitably hyperthermic traits still showed in her pale tone. Sun-kissed and immortally smooth, edging an almost unblemished and pure from the coruscating. Her hair freely-swaying waves of ginger, woven and braided together and up over the top of her head. The rest of her hair, covering her neck and framing the youthful Hyur's face, and down her forehead to the dusting of ebony lashes at her eyes. Eyes so similarly touched in muted brook-blue gaze outward, half-lidded, and aloof; necessary in such learned ruse to tame the teeming, wild gleams of youth. Her smiles sway from tawdry to terse, and her mirthless witticisms and deceptive indecision to cordial commentary suggest that occasional broad, impish grin was far more fitting a tell for her exact preference in comity, which worked poorly to allay the effects of sleepless evenings as she's so used too.

Indeed, her most prized possessions are her equipment. Her gunblade Heartseeker and her armor Dawnguard. Heartseeker was a gift by a Miqo'te she unknowingly assisted during an inner struggle. Battling depression and self-doubt. Astrid stumbled upon him amidst the Starlight Festival. She made it her mission to pass out gifts to people she discovered alone and lingering against the wall. She just so happened to of gifted him one of these stuffed animals, in return, months later he gifted her Heartseeker. A simple, yet elegantly crafted gunblade. The weapon itself is maintained every chance Astrid can get, thoroughly oiling, dismantling, and cleaning every switch and lever she can access.

Dawnguard, the Warrior's alabaster armor had recently received an upgrade. It's plate reworked and beaten down to better fit the Hyur. It now fits perfectly, as armor should. It's still lined with gold trim, though has more segmentation to allow greater mobility and added protection to the scrawny girl hidden within. The inner under-leather had been fully replaced, a bit more padding added to the cuirass, new belts and buckles had been added to the breastplate's sides along with the gauntlets and leggings. Just as with Heartseeker. Astrid conducts regular upkeep on her armor, making sure it's in tip-top shape and always ready at a moment's notice.
 

 

 

 

 

Background

 

Astrid was orphaned at an incredibly young age. Dropped off at the Orphanage in Limsa Lominsa at around the age of one. She knows next to nothing about her family or even her heritage other than her surname as it was inscribed on a small necklace she had on when placed before the doorstep.

Around the age of ten, Astrid decided it was time to leave the Orphanage. She ran off into the city, never to be seen by her caretakers again. The Girl ended up mostly raising herself, with the assistance of strangers she met throughout her journey.
She eventually learned how to hunt, and found she had a knack for singing and playing the lute. She cashed in on her skills, earning herself enough Gil for her day to day requirements.

Over a year ago now Astrid enlisted in the Ashen Oathsworn, a group of mercenaries who seek to make Eorzea a better place. She's found a home with them. Many of whom she considers family and would do anything for them. She's grown, her energy channeled into a productive force to be reckoned with. Now dubbed a Justicar for the Oathsworn Astrid's made it her own personal mission to see to the mental health of the people within the Oathsworn. It's a difficult job, but she believes her positive attitude, optimistic outlook, and her ability to sit (not still) besides those she cares about and let them talk will prove invaluable for helping those struggling to pull themselves out of despair.

Astrid more recently had begun uncovering her own family heritage. She knows whatever she uncovers doesn't define who she is as a person, but she's curious, and slowly she's begun unearthing information about her family. She's learned her actual surname is Wolfe, and her parents hail from Ishgard. Her mother a Noblewoman, while her Father was a House Guard. Their union a secret, and shunned by her Mother's house. Astrid sought to meet some of her family, though was attacked by her own Grandmother. Seemingly the only relative she's currently aware of. Amidst one of her trips to Ishgard, she stumbled across her source of Aether, allowing the Hyur to now use magic to the fullest extent. Untrained, and unfocused, the girl's wild magic is like a ticking time bomb. Sooner or later, the wrong person is going to get burnt.
 

Edited December 30, 2021 by CalmFishy
Minor Tweaking updates

[CalmFishy]

CRASH! The sound of glass breaking would fill the unruly tavern, the entire place was in Chaos, the seedy establishment didn't even bat an eye. People fighting one another, others drunkenly singing and swaying in the corner. A Bard stood atop a square table, dancing and strumming his lute enthusiastically. The Tavern was in an uproar, and the Bartender had no control over the situation, so he merely continued to serve those who slapped coin down on the sticky surface of the counter.

"Try that again! I dare you!" A young Astrid challenged the Roegadyn, prodding him in the stomach. He offered a broad yellow-toothed grin in response as he grabbed the girl by the shirt collar, hefting the shortie off her feet, which began to flail about.

"Alright, then Lass~" The Roe cooed teasingly in response to the fiery tempered woman. He hefted her up, above his shoulder and gave her a violent shake. Jostling her about. His long braided beard swayed as he spat off to the side. "Someone oughta show ya how to be a good little Lady." He taunted chucking her back down onto the ground.

Astrid grunted as she fell onto the sticky floorboards. She glanced back over her shoulder and kicked the Roegadyn square in the shin with the heel of her boot. The Roe reeled in pain after the blow. "Why you little.." He went to reach for her but she scooted away and clocked him square in the jaw. She quickly snapped into her brawling stance, fists formed and she kept her footwork quick and agile.

The Roegadyn merely grinned as if amused by the tiny fighter before him. He cracked his knuckles, a loud series of pops as the cartilage was squeezed together. The rest of the Tavern seemed to pay them no mind, and someone even said that the tempo of the music picked up. Everyone was too wrapped up in what they were doing. She threw another quick series of jabs and punches, throwing her whole weight into each strike. The Roe grunted and attempted a quick uppercut on her, she was quick through and nimbly dodged the blow. "Stupid little Girl!" He roared reaching for a bar stool.

Astrid's eyes widened, she saw him grab the piece of furniture, he used it as a club, both hands on two of the things legs as he swung wide, knocking over some poor bystander caught in the 'crossfire'. "You little shit. Stop running!" He roared and swiped wide again. She dropped to the ground, narrowly avoiding the Roegadyn's powerful swings. He brought the stool down to where Astrid had proned herself out, only to impact the ground instead of the Girl.

"You are too slow!" She smirked, feeling her sweat run down her brow and along the curves of her jaw, and the bridge of her nose. She kicked at his stomach again, aiming for his diaphragm. The blow connected through the Roe grappled her ankle. They exchanged looks, Astrid's was one of worry, while the Roegadyn grinned maliciously. He yanked her off balance and then quickly hurled her across the Tavern. Her back collided with the far wall and she coughed, attempting to catch her breath.

He spat onto the ground, smirking pridefully as he lumbered toward her. Her back pressed against the stone wall behind her and she felt his fat, sausage fingers coil around her collar again attempting to heft her back up. The Roegadyn snarled at her, and Astrid quickly jabbed him in the throat, a direct hit to the Man's Adams apple. He coughed and sputtered a few times, sinking to his knees from the brutal cheap-shot.

She quickly got up onto her feet and tackled the Roegadyn with the remainder of her might, shoving him over onto his side. He was recovering from the punch to the throat and attempted to swipe at her though she was already up and off him. She was breathing heavily, nearly panting at this point her arms felt heavy and weak though she brought them back up into her fighting position. The Roe stood slowly and grinned smugly at her. "Ya don't give up do you?" He cranked his head left, them right, popping his vertebrae.

She felt the warm, metallic taste of blood on her tongue, Her teeth gritting together as she eyed her opponent carefully. His hand slid into his coat and he pulled forth a pistol. Astrid's eyes widened before CRACK! Eorzea faded from her mind, blurring before fading completely to black.

[CalmFishy]

Updated the profile! WOOP WOOP MORE TO COME SHORTLY.

[CalmFishy]

 

 

Got some more Artwork done! ASTRID IN A DRESS?!! (Artwork done by ahoynateo)

[CalmFishy]

Lionhearted Chapter One

The solid wooden pushed open slowly. Astrid had to use both hands to heave the massive thing forward. It scraped and creaked loudly and a gust of wind flowed in behind it. Snowflakes swirled and spiraled into the dark manor. The solid metal knocker which decorated the door clacked against itself as it came to a stop. A single candle which lingered in the window was a sign of someone still inhabiting the home. The wax melting and dripping onto the sill it rested upon. Two tattered banners greeted Astrid as she walked forward, determination in her steps as she passed, the sound of boots signaled her arrival, echoing through the empty halls. The cold that was brought in with the girl mirrored that of the dreary estate. One of the banners she had passed fluttered free of its rod and found a new home upon the dusty marble floor, rolling back into the deep shadows of the house.

“Hello?” Astrid called out, looking left, then right. The estate split into three different directions, to the left, the right, and up a set of stairs which were lined with moth devoured carpet. She drew in a deep breath and pulled her gunblade free, her fingers flexing tightly around the handle as she started up the stairs. She reached the first landing and caught something in her peripheral vision. Whatever it was, was gone before she could angle her attention up toward it. She furrowed her brows and continued up to the second level.

As she rounded the staircase it opened up to a long hallway, there were no doors, pictures were askew and cobwebs hung from the ceiling. She passed by broken vases and knocked over benches, side tables, and decorations. She eyed the next door. It was left slightly ajar, giving Astrid a small glimpse of what lurked behind its veil. An old, gnarled woman sat behind a desk, scrawling something onto a piece of parchment. The candle her only source of light flickered valiantly in an attempt to illuminate the rest of the room.

Astrid sucked in a deep breath and placed her hand to the door. She pushed it forward and strode in. The woman broke her gaze from the sheet and peered at the white-armored girl. She set her quill down into the inkpot and eased back into her seat.

“Who are you? And what are you doing in my home?” The older woman asked, her face wrinkled and wrought with the summers she had seen. She rose from her seat. Astrid’s jaw tightened as she looked up at her.

“I am Astrid, Astrid Lionheart.” Astrid replied, her gaze narrowing, her features hardening just a bit more than she was used to. It felt unsettling for her, almost forced and she didn’t enjoy the look that crossed her features. It made her stomach flip within itself. The woman’s eyes widened in realization.

“So the little Wolf has come home, at last, to claim what she thinks she may deserve.” The elder sneered and pulled the top drawer back, it slid roughly against the desk’s innards. The woman reached down and pulled an ancient-looking pistol free and leveled it at Astrid. She pulled the trigger. CLICK! Astrid dove to the side, in an attempt to avoid the weapon’s projectile. She ducked and made herself as small as possible. The weapon, however, had malfunctioned and sputtered and fell into pieces within the older woman’s grasp. She scowled, and shouted in rage, hurling the leftover hunk of metal aside. “DAMN YOU!” She cursed and raised her hand forward. Her gnarled fingers contorted as aether began to pool and collect, she was conjuring some sort of spell as the tips of her digits began to glow fiery orange. The spell swirled further forming as the woman leaned on the desk, using it to support her weight. The fireball swelling and sparking, casting long shadows across the room. Astrid scrambled back behind the desk and rolled up behind it. The fireball was thrown, sparking across the marble where she had once been.

The glow of another fireball filled the room, this one hurled for the desk, it collided violently, sending sparks and splinters of flaming pieces of wood across the room and shoved Astrid across the ground. She grunted and went to stand, having lost most of her wind from the powerful blast. She drew her gunblade. Her eyes wide as she brought the blade up, charged the first round, and pulsed out a shield blocking the next blast. The fireballs began coming in quicker, a volley of them being flung by the powerful black mage. “Grandmother! I don’t come seeking any sort of power.” Astrid said, ducking behind a pillar. She was breathing heavier as she slotted two more aetherial rounds.


“You LIE girl... YOU LIE! I know what you’ve come for!” She screeched, another blast hit the pillar, the middle section decimated by the potent blast, rubble, and dust came crashing down upon where Astrid had just been standing.

“No.. I don’t! I just..I just..”

“You just what? Seek to kill me? Is that it? Do you want my Gil? My power!?”

“No.. just stop! Listen!”

“You won’t get anything from me girl. You are not of my blood, you are not my equal, and you should have been hurled into the ocean the moment you came out of my whore of a daughter.” The elder raised both hands now, a huge spiraling fire blossomed between her grasp, spreading wider, igniting the entire room in its warmth. Astrid looked around, having nowhere left to hide. She bit her lower lip and tilted her head away in an attempt to shield herself from the incoming blast. The spell continued to swell, the woman's’ hair danced wildly in the gusts of wind and power it put off.

The sound of someone running in would be heard, the heavy footfalls of an armored knight charged into the fray, colliding with the mage, sending her toppling to the ground. He was fully armored, donned in a dull gold attire. He stretched out his hand. “Come, child, you nor I am ready to face this one yet, she is stronger than she appears and her hatred runs deep.” He said. Astrid stunned, having expected to become dust upon the floor took his hand. He hefted her up with surprising strength, just as the elder was collecting. She launched a gout of fire toward the pair, the armored Man however took the brunt of the blast and kept running.

“Do not EVER return!” She screamed. “ If you do, it will only be your death that which you come for!”

Astrid heaved a heavy sigh, her eyes closing tight as she clung tightly to the man who had rescued her. She looked down at the small locket clinging to her neck. She held it gingerly then ripped it off and hurled it to the ground as they ran.

Edited December 3, 2021 by CalmFishy

[CalmFishy]

 

Done by smillerbee2

[CalmFishy]

Lionhearted: Chapter Two

 

Astrid located a bank account opened in her name at the Bank of Limsa Lominsa. There were consistent withdrawals throughout the years and, the account's age mirrored her own. With this information, the girl went about setting a trap for whoever was using her name. She transferred all of the Gil into a different account. She moved it in hopes of earning Someone's attention. She then proceeded to leave a note behind with the Bank which, provided instructions to meet with her at the Mizzenmast Inn.

 

Astrid had begun showing up regularly at the Inn. She checked with the Innkeeper, seeking a woman named Estrith Wolfe or Blackwood. Days passed, and she hadn't seen any sign or hint from the woman she sought.  The girl was growing tired of waiting and getting more and more anxious after each unsuccessful afternoon.

--------------------------

 

 

Astrid heaved a heavy sigh, her head resting in the palm of her hand as she stared at the doors as if willing them to move on their own accord. Her other hand drummed lightly against the round wooden table. Occasionally she took to picking at the deep ridges and gouges marring the table's warped surface. The smell of the ocean drifted into the Mizzenmast, the windows cracked, and winter was upon them. A heavy overcast lingered in the heavens while the higher clouds seemed to swirl and snarl, threatening thunder, lighting, and more than likely rain. 

 

The sound of the door's handle brought the girl upright. She went rigid as the large double doors pushed open. A slender Hyur walked into the Inn, closing the heavy doors behind them until there was a click of the door shutting. Astrid focused on the person. Their hood was up, covering their features though from what she could make out, they appeared to be feminine, of average height, and sleek. The stranger began to make their way deeper into the Inn. Astrid's heart was hammering hard in her chest. She was about ready to spring out of her seat when the person turned to the Innkeeper, slid forward some Gil, and in return received a key to a room. 

 

Crestfallen, Astrid sank back into the chair then hung her head forward. Both of her hands came up to rub her face as she took a moment to collect herself. She felt a hand on her shoulder. Astrid turned to look up and saw herself looking into a mirror. Well, a mirror that reflected an older, somewhat taller, and more built version of herself.

 

"E-Estrith?" Astrid's voice shook. Emotions swelled into her chest like a ship being tossed by a raging storm. Was she about to cry? Fling a chair across the Inn? She didn't know. Her breathing had begun to grow heavy as her gaze focused upward. 

 

"Yes." Estrith replied, offering a single, calculated nod of her head toward the girl. She moved to take a seat across the table from Astrid, her hands gloved by perfectly fitted white gloves wove together. "I am your... Mother." The final word seemed force, almost as if she didn't quite believe the title herself. 

 

Astrid's nostrils flared as she took a few deep breaths. The girl stared back at what could have been her future self. Astrid was at a loss of what to say. Her mouth opened. No words seemed to exit or even form within her throat. 

 

Estrith held a hand up. "I know." She replied. "I was young and scared." She began, the woman's lips pursed tightly together, forming a thin line. "I know that it is not an excuse, nor is it justification for what I did." The woman felt her jaw tighten.

 

"You are GODS DAMNED RIGHT IT'S NOT!" Astrid shot up, the fire in her eyes burning. She slammed a fist onto the table. "You left me alone!" The people who were inside of Mizzenmast glanced toward the shouting girl. "You abandoned me!" Astrid continued, her eyes growing wet with emotion. "You were scared?!" She scoffed and shook her head. "How do you think I felt?" She asked, starting to pace back and forth. Before planting both her hands onto the table and leaning toward her Mother. "How scared I was!" She shook her head and brought her hands up to her face. " I struggled by myself for so long. I had no one." She wiped at her eyes. "No one was there for me. To celebrate the little things that should have been. For so long, I had no one in my corner." 

 

Estrith watched. She remained calm and snuffed out any emotion that might have been swelling within her. Her hands remained clasped tightly together as her Daughter paced back and forth. "I do not know what to say. Nor is there is anything I could say that would fix this. My Mother... Your Grandmother, she is a vile person. I did not want to look at that part of her. So I focused on the half of her that made me happy. Then I ignored the half of her that broke my heart." She paused, watching Astrid who not slowly sank back into her seat. Tears still running down her cheeks as she began to settle and listen. 

 

 Estrith continued. "If I would have called her out then for threatening my family, it would not only be for her betrayal but because she lied about her granddaughter to save her status. Any decent mother would have to leave then, right?" Estrith exhaled and sat up straighter. "I was scared to be alone. I chose her over you. That is why I never found you. I dreaded meeting you because... you knew what I had done." Estrith closed her eyes. "I... was...no am ashamed of the choices I made. I can not undo what has already transpired." She concluded, looking back up toward Astrid.

 

Again, Astrid's emotions were in turmoil. Waging an internal war against one another. She stared at her Mother. "What about my Father? What fate befell him?" She asked. 

 

Estrith frowned and shook her head. "Sadly, I do not know. He returned to House Blackwood many years ago seeking something. I have not heard, nor seen him since the day he left."

 

"Hmm..." Astrid paused, glancing toward her hands, a small sniffle came from her as she rose. Astrid pushed her seat into the table, then grabbed her weapons belt, fastening her sword around her waist. "I would like to talk with him as well. I... I wasn't sure what I would get out of meeting either of you, and plenty of people told me not to do so." Astrid said. "I'm sure you only came for the Gil anyways." she waved her hand. "I'll transfer it back. Thank you... for at least stopping to see me." Astrid looked toward the door. 

 

Estrith reached out as Astrid passed, grabbing the girl by the wrist and stopping her from continuing. "Astrid wait." Estrith said. Astrid stopped and looked toward her mother. "I didn't come for the Gil. Truthfully I could care less what becomes of it. I came to see you, and I know there is a long road between us. But, I would like to be part of your life. If you will allow me." 

 

Astrid looked down at the woman, she was tempted to rip her arm back, she remained silent, tense, her attention focused on the woman. "I...I need to think about it." Astrid admitted, slowly pulling her hand back. "But you can write to me, and.. we'll set up at least one more meeting." Astrid promised, giving a firm nod of her head as she brought her hand back up to rub at her eyes. "Goodbye Estrith." Astrid said and made her way out of the Inn and out into the storm.

Edited December 3, 2021 by CalmFishy

[CalmFishy]

 

Commission done by Torakun14!

Edited February 5, 2021 by CalmFishy

[CalmFishy]

Lionhearted: Chapter Three

 

A pained cry filled Ishgard's night sky. The run-down Blackwood Manor stood dark and brooding. A single torn, and hole-riddled tapestry fluttered before it's binding finally gave up and was carried off into the wind. The snow continued to flutter down, blanketing the streets, frosting the glass panes, and dusting rooftops within the seldom traveled neighborhood, all the while another scream rose from within the Manor.

 

"Know your place KNIGHT." An aged woman's voice filled the empty hall. The rattle and thunder of powerful magicks shook the Manor. "None of you understand! NO ONE UNDERSTANDS!" She shouted louder, another crash, and a sudden boom filled the entryway as one of the manor's beams fell and splintered across the dank marble floor.

 

"I... will...not...let...you..." The man replied before roaring in pain. More magick coursed through the room, and into the knight strapped to the table. The door left ajar as flashes of blue, purple, and white illuminated the opening, dancing into the hallway.

 

"Then let the void take you." The woman replied coolly, tendrils of wispy dark magicks slithered up the table's legs, coiling around the man's wrists, his ankles, and up toward his face. It slid over his mouth and began pouring into his nose, the smokey abyssal magic rushed in, his eyes opened and rolled back in his head as his form began to seize, foam bubbling out of the Knight's mouth as his body thrashed against the constraints. More shrieks of pain before the magicked tendrils tightened and snapped the bindings. The man's form was lifted by its power and cast crashing out through the front window.

 

He rolled to a stop in the snowbank, hitting the rubble which formed a ramshackle barrier around the property. His body still involuntarily twitching and jerking before he finally went still. A guardsman on patrol came rushing over and knelt beside the Knight's body, a hand resting atop the man's shoulder checking his breathing as he gazed up at the shattered window.

 

The guardsman swallowed hard, his throat bobbed as he hooked his hands under the Knight's arms and drug him out and away from the Estate. The Knight was alive, barely and who knows what state his mind was left in after such an atrocity beset onto him. The snow continued to fall, heavier now as the Guard dragged the body as hastily as he could back to the hospital. Those familiar with Blackwood Manor knew not to approach and knew better to ask questions. Terrible things were said to happen within its walls, and no one seemed brave enough to muster the courage to put a stop to it.

 

"No one... understands." Medwin said softly with a shake of her head. "And they shall all learn the burden I wear." She turned and made her towards her office, the sound of her staff clacking against the floor filled the hall, and Eorzea seemed to go silent.

Edited December 3, 2021 by CalmFishy

[CalmFishy]

( Have some resources, and immersion from Astrid's quest of tracking down her lineage!)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited January 25, 2022 by CalmFishy

[CalmFishy]

Lionhearted: Chapter Four

 

     The solid oak doors were pushed open, and the rusted metal hinges groaned under the door's heavyweight as the metal rubbed together.  Midway through their swing, the momentum carried the doors to collide with the wall with a heavy clang. The brass handles rapping loudly against the wood. Astrid wrinkled her nose; the swirl of dust and that familiar uneasiness settled into her core. The girl exhaled uneasily and began to unfasten the safety belt that secured her sword, gripping the hilt of her weapon as she strode across the dirt-covered marble floors—Blackwood Estate, in all its dilapidated glory. 

 

     "Medwin Blackwood!" Astrid shouted as she walked forward into the foyer. Snow began to swirl in following the Justicar's path.  "Your Grandaughter is here to speak with you." She said. Her hand shifted up to the pommel of her sword while her other hand situated itself at her hip. She looked up the long staircase that leads up to the estate's second floor.  "And I brought something this time." Astrid moved her free hand toward her neck. She pulled out a necklace and a bright blue glittering gem that twinkled in the low light. Beams of light bouncing off the gemstone's angles sparkling across the dimly lit room.

 

     The Office doors heaved open and out strode an older woman. She scowled at the girl in her foyer. The gnarled-looking staff she had clicked across the warped wooden floor. "Foolish girl, you have no idea what you have, nor could someone of YOUR stature hope to wield such power. You are but an unwound string in a tapestry that is the Blackwood legacy. And you will learn your place." Medwin held the staff high; an icy blue magick swirled up her forearm, collecting at the crook of the staff's head before spiking toward where Astrid was. It hit the floor, shattering into fragments; another ice spear was conjured and fired at the Justicar as she rolled behind a pillar. 

 

     "You can.. give up now!" Astrid hollered above the swirling ice that once more began to form at the head of the staff. In retort, Medwin fired another ice lance, hitting the pillar. The support structure cracking after each strike rattled it. "Alright, suit yourself!" She spun and drew her blade 'Heartseeker.' Astrid's magick began to flare up; a reddish-orange glow spiraled and snaked its way up along the length of the sword, the blade igniting in a brilliant fire which illuminated the foyer in a vibrant shine.  

 

     Medwin's magic continued to spiral toward the girl who zig-zagged from pillar to pillar. Behind desks, side tables, and anything she could use as a source of cover. Giant spears of magickal ice careened down, shattering against everything.  Astrid ducked behind another pillar as she pressed her back against it. She was breathing heavily, and her sword was still glowing brightly as she gripped it tighter and turned quickly, racing for the stairs. She held her sword up as a flurry of ice volleyed her. The heat of her sword hissing and sizzling as the two magick's collided tempestuously. 

 

     Astrid continued the climb up the steps, closing the distance between herself and her Grandmother, the sword taking the brunt of the blow as her magic flickered and pulsed, pouring every ounce of aether into the weapon. The blade's metal glowing white-hot as she struggled against the remorseless blizzard Medwin conjured onto her. "Th-this is the difference... between us though..." Astrid grit through her teeth. Her legs felt as if lead weighed down her boots. Each step began to grow painful as she trudged on, continuing the climb. "I'm.. not alone." 

 

     Medwin's eyes widened, realizing where this was going. The Elder shifted her stance and held both hands above her head; violet coruscating wells of aether began to sprout around the woman, spinning and dancing an elegant arcane pattern across the floor as they turned. A turbulent swirling ball of ice began to form. "You have NO idea what I've gone through to be where I am. You come in here, thinking you know best. You are nothing but a child, and my daughter is just as much of an imbecile as you." Medwin sneered, her face scrunched up. "I have more power than that little trinket can give you. Years of rigorous study and etiquette, and you come in here believing you can overthrow ME? The gall of children these days."  Medwin flicked her wrist, and the boulder-sized ice globe hurtled down toward Astrid. 

 

     Astrid shifted and pointed the tip of Heartseeker toward the incoming ice block. "Astrid!" The voice of Astrid's Mother Estrith. She was attempting to drag a tall, fully dressed knight out of the estate's doors. The figure's body was completely limp. Estrith dumped the form to the floor and thrust her hands out; a beam of power shot forth toward the Justicar. The beginnings of a smirk formed on Astrid's lips as her fire grew once more, spitting forward like a raging dragon, the tip of Heartseeker seared through the ice block, carving the massive slab in half. Both sides wobbled and bounced down the stairs, one smashing through the railing, while the other rocked and came to a spinning stop atop the marble floor. 

 

     Medwin stood there, dumbfounded. Her eyes were wide as she scowled—her wrinkled visage scrunching up as she shook her head. "You'll all pay for this... You know not what you are doing! You are jeopardizing EVERYTHING!' She shouted. Both of Medwin's hands began to glow, one igniting in the familiar frost magick, the other taking on a fiery hue. The Thaumaturge began to hurl bolt after magickal bolt of power toward Astrid, who ducked and rolled, trying to get closer to her target. She was nearly there.

 

     "Astrid! Don't!" Estrith shouted, once more trying to drag the massive figure across the ground, struggling every inch of the way as she pulled and tugged the heavily armored person toward the doors. 

 

     "I-I have to! She can't keep hurting me, you... him." Astrid grit her teeth and charges up the stairs, sword at the ready, the tip pointed toward her intended target as she side-stepped another bolt of fire. Astrid reached the top of the stairs and slashed hard toward Medwin; the woman brought her staff up to block the blow, then thrust her hand forward; mighty gouts of fire spit from her hand. Astrid shrunk back and leaped aside; the spell shot forward, hitting the far wall. 

 

     Astrid picked herself back up and ran forward again, sword at the ready once more. She choked up on her grip, the top of her hand resting against the bottom of the handguard as she slashed hard downward, only to bite into Medwin's staff; she retracted and sliced across the Thurmatauge's weapon was there again to parry the blow.  A chorus of metal and wood clanged across the second floor as the Justicar tried to gain the upper hand. The fight a stalemate; neither side was making progress against one another. 

 

    "Adorable. The little Lion thinks she can play." Medwin snarled. The floor beneath Astrid's feet grew slick as frost began to form. She slipped and struggled to maintain her balance. The frost continued to spread and develop into ice, traveling up the girl's boot, crunching as it tightened its hold on her feet. She twisted and jerked before attempting to chip away at the thick ice securing her in place.  Astrid continued to struggle against the bonds that held her in place.  The Thurmatauge cackled, holding both hands above her again. Power surged forth, spiraling up the older woman's form and casting a sienna hue across Astrid's face as she looked up to meet her fate.

 

    "Not yet." A voice whispered.

 

     A searing white light exploded out of the Justicar. The magick pulsed and thumped like a war drum as a beam of power shot through Medwin's conjured orb. It impacted the meteor, which shattered and sent chunks of molten rock everywhere. The estate groaned and shifted before ultimately starting to crumble. Large pieces of wood began to fall, roofing, walls, pictures, everything came crashing down onto the ground as Astrid's world went dark.

Edited December 3, 2021 by CalmFishy

[CalmFishy]

Artwork done by Gwayneart

[CalmFishy]

 

 

Heavensward (Song)

 

Heartwood: Chapter One

Astrid entered the church, wearing plain clothing, tight form-fitted leather britches, and a loose linen blouse under a tailored tabard filled with rich reds and blacks. The tabard added an extra layer to protect against the cold of the winter's day. A simple belt ran around the girl's waist; the gilded metal buckle caught the rays of light just right as she walked forward with purpose to the center of the room. 

 

The place was made of marble, and light filled the center chamber. A large stained-glass window of some sort was in the far back, with an ancient scene being played out.  It's pretty sapphires, rubies, and emeralds acting like a filter, sending colors speckling across the stone floor. In the center of it all was a large altar was made of matching stone with a polished surface. Gallant Ishgardian tapestry hung from the high arched ceilings. Despite the season, the sun was out in Ishgard this day. An unusual thing for the usually blizzard-ridden city. As she looked around, she found a single hooded figure standing at the base of the platform, holding a golden Warhammer, the head of which was resting on the floor. As Astrid neared, the figure brought down the hammerhead with a resonating HUM that seemed to reverberate within the chamber. It was like a bell being rung. 

 

"Did you bring it?" The Hooded figure asked. Astrid nodded in response, offering forth an old leather-bound tome that seemed stuffed with loose papers. The pages were marked with slender pastel ribbons. The ends of which were forked like that of a serpent's tongue.  The figure took the tome, uncoiled the string, and examined its contents.  "Good." He said, snapping the book shut. He returned it to its owner. 

 

Astrid took the book and cradled it close. She ascended the two steps that led to the altar and set the tome on top of it. The Hooded Figure made his way around. He stood opposite of the girl and brought the Warhammer upright. A single sapphire gem glimmered in the center. Clearly, it was a ceremonial weapon.

 

Astrid drew in a deep breath and bowed her head forward as he did so. Though the girl righted herself up after the moment had passed.

 

"With everything in order, I see that you've chosen a name for yourself and for your House." The Man in front of her remarked. 

 

"I have." Astrid replied, her lips pursed together. She looked back over her shoulders toward the doorway. In walked another hooded figure, in similar garb as the one before her, carrying a freshly minted house heraldry. The crest was divided in half; on one side of the shield was red, the other white with red fleur-de-lis patterned up it. In the center stood an oak tree, carved in black, and at the roots of the tree slept a gilded lion.

 

"Then, let it be known, on this day Ishgard, and the Holy See formally recognize House Heartwood, as being the successor of House Blackwood. May House Heartwood ever stand stalwart and devoted to Halone, the Fury, and protect Ishgard and everything she stands for. Of the Sky. From the Sky. For the Sky."

 

Astrid merely nodded again and took a step back from the altar enough to give the others room to work. The heraldry made its way down the aisle, and more hooded figures joined it, each carrying a piece of armor. The procession made its way down to Astrid. Upon reaching Astrid, each of those in the procession strapped armor onto her. One after another, the ensemble slowly assembled. Until Astrid was handed her sword and helm. A deep ruby red armor freshly crafted glimmered in the light of the afternoon, complimented by black leather and silver trim. The armor was quite something to behold, modeled after the warriors of old; simple, practical, and effective.

 

She donned the helm, strapping it into place, and knelt. The tip of her blade Heartseeker found the groove in between the tile, her fingers flexed around the leather grip, as she bowed her head forward once more.

 

"You may rise Astrid Heartwood, Head of your House. Daughter of Ishgard."

 

With that, Astrid rose. Her attention drifted up to the imposing statue of Halone before sheathing her blade and binding the handle shut with the leather safety belt.  As she did, horns and trumpets signaled the completion of the ceremony. She turned and strode out of the Hall, the sound of her boots mixing with the music. She had work that needed to be done.

Edited December 3, 2021 by CalmFishy

[CalmFishy]

Got some Artwork done by Macemaxxx

[CalmFishy]

 

Artwork done by kyfatlockhart