The Rise of the Amber Wolf

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Karalael Moonsinger
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The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#1 Post by Karalael Moonsinger »

Hey all, long time lurker (in this part of the forum at least) here. Due to reading Headshot's tales, and my avid roleplayer/writer girlfriend urgings, I've decided to have a pop at writing up my Prince's history/background.

So here is the prologue introducing both Karalael's father and his nemesis, the General of my soon to be started Warriors of Chaos force, hope you all enjoy, comments and constructive criticism welcomed.

Karalael
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Prologue. The Death of the Grey Wolf.

Analael, sat atop his mighty charger, surveyed the serried ranks of his ithilmar clad forces, midnight blue pennants and banners billowing in the wind. Beside him stood his Household Guard, horses stamping impatiently, their wolfskin cloaks and Caledor-forged armour denoting their elite status.

Across from him, on the other side of the field, were the reason his army was here; the Norse horde that was threatening the border of Saphery and Avelorn, a vast seemingly numberless mass of muscle and steel with no clear discipline aside from the large regiment of Chaos Warriors, the plate-clad behemoths dwarfing the norsemen beside them.

Taking one final look at the elves under his command, he lifted his hand, fist closed bar two fingers pointed at the sky, and then lowered it towards the enemy. It was prearranged signal for the archers and Eagle Claws to loose shaft after shaft, bolt after bolt into the army before them. Nodding down at his trusted lieutenant and standard bearer, Ashil, he ordered his regiments of Spearelves and Sword Masters forward to engage the foe.

As the blue-fletched arrows and bolts crashed down on the enemy, and his elves got closer and closer to the foe, the elf Prince silently prayed to Asuryan that the foe would engage before the window of time for a successful flank charge by him and his cavalry passed. And, just as his forces reached the centre of the battlefield, the forces of Chaos charged, tribes racing each other, warriors beating each other in order to be the first to draw blood, their mutated hounds in the lead.

Analael silently cheered, before gently touching his heels to his mount’s flanks, such was the bond between the two that that was all it took to start the warhorse to smoothly start towards the foe, his knights following swiftly behind them. As they neared the enemy, the prince and his guard easily couched their lances, and prepared for the bone-crushing impact soon to follow. The norsemen closest to the knights began to realize their earlier folly, and tried desperately to turn to face these new attackers, but it was too late, the Knights of Tor Lupa crashed into their number, lances slaughtering dozens of the tribesmen, before impacts and weight forced them to break or be dropped.

Seeing the thunderous charge of their lord, the Spearelf shieldwall that had provided the anvil that prepared the invaders to be outflanked, changed tactics. Spears scythed through the unarmoured forms in front of them, each strike a killing blow. The Sword Masters, warriors without peer, also went on the offensive. With greatswords shining through the air, limbs, heads and bodies fell with deceptively peaceful grace. The marauders being attacked were dead before they even had chance to register the killing motion.

As the Asur forces started to push the enemy, Aralael, too focused on the immediate foe, failed to notice that the Warriors, the shock troops of the horde, and its general, Malokai, had not yet entered the fray. He did not realize this until his Household Guard themselves came under attack, effortlessly hacked down or pulled from their steeds by unnatural might before Aralael himself was confronted by the unholy, daemonic visage of Malokai the Grim.

Unnerved by the sudden appearance of his enemy the Elf commander hesitated, giving the Chaos Lord time to reach his horse and snap the beast's neck with a simple flick of his wrist, sending Analael tumbling painfully to the ground. Disorientated, the Elf staggered to his feet before drawing his ancestral blade and settling into a fighting stance. Malokai smiled arrogantly, before making a gesture and gripping the scythe that materialized out of the air.

Using his natural elven grace and speed, Analael struck swiftly and deadly, his enchanted blade easily allowing him to pierce his foes defences, knocking him back and cutting into his evil, rune-encrusted armour. However, his enemy's foul gods and their enchantments protected their servant.

In return the dread warrior swung his scythe in a bedazzling array of circles, the pattern of attacks being almost impossible to defend against. Blows rained down upon the elf only to be turned aside by the magical scale he was girded in. Unfortunately even the best armour is not infallible and Analael took a grievous blow, the scythe ripping through the muscle of the elf’s side. Sensing that the battle would be lost if he didn’t do something soon, the noble Sapherian stood and, taking hold of his sword in two hands, batted his foe’s scythe aside and stabbed deep into his chest, the effort making his wound tear wider.

Collapsing on the ground, the last thing he saw was Malokai’s body consuming itself with a multi-hued flame, leaving no trace behind. His vision faded to nothing and the Prince smiled, knowing he had defended Ulthuan’s soil once more, content to die knowing he had succeeded.
[quote="rdghuizing"]
Besides, the battle of Finuval Plain was more a minor skirmish anyway. A good enough summary would have been "Teclis and Malekith ran into each other. Teclis cast The Dwellers Below on Malekith with IF, and Malekith failed his Strength test." Not much more to it then that really.[/quote]
Malossar
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Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#2 Post by Malossar »

Hey nice read. Anxious to see how this develops.
Ptolemy wrote:Im not above whoring myself for a good cause. ;)
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Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#3 Post by Shadow star »

wow realy nice!
[i]The shadow of war is cast long in the dying light of peace.[/i]
Karalael Moonsinger
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Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#4 Post by Karalael Moonsinger »

Thanks for the kind words, next chapter should be up soon, just finishing it off tonight then letting the partner beta it, so should be either tonight or tomorrow :)
[quote="rdghuizing"]
Besides, the battle of Finuval Plain was more a minor skirmish anyway. A good enough summary would have been "Teclis and Malekith ran into each other. Teclis cast The Dwellers Below on Malekith with IF, and Malekith failed his Strength test." Not much more to it then that really.[/quote]
Karalael Moonsinger
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Posts: 185
Joined: Mon Apr 09, 2012 6:23 pm
Location: Tor Lupa, Saphery (or Manchester, England)

Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#5 Post by Karalael Moonsinger »

Ready a bit later than planned, but ready nonetheless. Finally, my actual Prince comes into it :lol:

Chapter One. Sad Tidings.

Karalael’s footsteps echoed around the high vaulted walls, the sound so loud in the Great Library that the young elf cringed at the imagined glares of the white-robed librarians, as he wandered around the towering stacks. He wove in between the shelves, looking for books relating to the magical wind of Ghur, of Beasts, his favoured wind. During his hundred or so years in the Tower, he had learned the basics of all of the eight basic winds and in another century he might even be able to begin learning the more intricate arcane mysteries of Qhaysh, High magic.

Happy that he was making reasonable progress in his studies, he finally settled on a tome, the Liber Bestialis. It was one he had read before, but it never hurt to re-cover old ground. Moving out of the forest, sometimes literally, of bookshelves, the young elf made his way to the countless, long starwood tables. Finding an empty seat, the Sapherian noble lowered himself into it before carefully opening the heavy brass clasp and turning the worn and yellowed pages of vellum. Scanning the table of contents, he deftly turned to his chosen chapter before starting to read.

Too engrossed in his reading, Karalael failed to notice the haughty elf in the blue and gold uniform of the Tower’s Stewards that sauntered into the antechamber, his cool arrogance marred slightly by the haste with which he moved through the room, scanning the faces of every elf at every table. Eventually, he made his way to the table that Karalael was sat at, relief flashing briefly across his slightly weathered face, “Lord Moonsinger, the Headmaster would like to see you in his office, at your earliest convenience.” The expression on the steward’s face as he finished speaking made it explicitly clear that ‘earliest convenience’ was just a polite way of saying ‘now’.

Karalael’s brow furrowed at being addressed as Lord Moonsinger that was a breach of protocol extremely uncommon from the Tower’s Steward, they were normally so prim and proper. Closing the grimoire, he used the time it took to replace the tome on the shelf to shake the unease from his mind and to try and figure out what Headmaster Tiralya could want.

Leaving the Great Library and, still focused on why he was summoned, made his way through the winding and mystical corridors that led to the lofty office the Headmaster had chosen for himself. Stopping at the door, he rapped his knuckles repeatedly on the modest wooden door. At the urgings of a voice emanating from inside, he entered the office.

He had heard tales of the Headmaster’s office, rumours he had written of as the wild imaginings of new students or the pranks of the older ones. As he looked around, he saw that the rumours were not only true, but if anything, were understated. Plants of all kinds, colours and size grew from various pots scattered throughout the room, and sitting in the midst of all the fauna sat a white-haired elf, with a prominent hooked nose. “Ah Karalael, come in, come in, sit down won’t you?” The Headmaster pointed towards one of the several spare chairs hidden among the foliage, “Would you care for some warm tea?”
“No thank you, Headmaster, I don’t wish to seem rude, but I am anxious to return to my studies, there are many aspects of Ghur I have not fully explored yet. May I ask, why did you summon me here?”

At Karalael’s words, the Headmaster sighed deeply, “Karalael, we have received some grave news, news that means your studies here will be interrupted. A message arrived this morning, my deepest condolences , but your father was killed in battle yesterday, you are needed to return home to become Warden of Tor Lupa.” Pausing to let his words sink in, the white-haired elf continued, “The Tower will provide a small escort of Sword Masters to ensure you make it back to your town safely, as well as a Loremaster to help you continue your mastery of magic. They will be waiting for you at the Tower gates in the morning.”

Karalael stood, his pride not allowing himself to grieve in front of the wise and venerable elf in front of him. “Thank you, Headmaster, for all you have offered me and for informing me.” Turning from Tiralya, he opened the door and silently made his way through the corridors, his mind struggling to comprehend the news he had just received and the sadness that threatened to overwhelm him.

When he finally arrived at his dormitory, the new prince made himself busy using the cantrips he’d learnt in his first decade at the Tower to pack his few possessions into his travel chest. As he picked up the sword his father gave him before he left for the Tower, his eyes filled with tears and the young elf collapsed against his wooden bed frame. Sobs wracking his lithe frame, the new prince slowly fell to the floor tears streaming down his cheeks, the sadness intensifying as he realized it had been over a century since the last time he had left Tor Lupa’s Silver Helms and travelled to study at the Tower, over a century since he had last seen his father, now he never would again. He stayed in that position for the rest of the night, eventually his sobs quieting down as he cried himself to sleep.

Karalael woke as the songbirds from the various gardens and maze that surrounded the Tower broke into song, the sun shimmering through the wooden slats of the blinds. Standing the young elf donned his ithilmar scale travelling armour before strapping the sword he had held on to all night to his belt. Finally he lifted his travel chest and started the laborious task of travelling to the entrance to the White Tower. As he made his way down the grand stair case leading out of the Tower, two of the Sword Master escort rushed to his side, taking the case and placing it onto a cart that was waiting with the rest of the twenty-strong honour guard surrounding it. In front of them, held by a Loremaster in antiquated lacquer armour, was a beautiful, grey destrier clad in ornate ithilmar barding that was inlaid with gold filigree moons, a steed for a Mage-Prince of Saphery, “My Lord Moonsinger, I am Giliad, I have been tasked by the Headmaster to both present you with this leaving gift from the Tower as well as to aid you in continuing your studies, however, as we have a great many miles to travel in a very short time, may I suggest we leave immediately?”

Nodding his agreement as well as his thanks, Karalael mounted the warhorse in front of him and turned it gently towards the north. Urging the horse into a trot he, and his escort, headed towards Tor Lupa, towards home.
[quote="rdghuizing"]
Besides, the battle of Finuval Plain was more a minor skirmish anyway. A good enough summary would have been "Teclis and Malekith ran into each other. Teclis cast The Dwellers Below on Malekith with IF, and Malekith failed his Strength test." Not much more to it then that really.[/quote]
Karalael Moonsinger
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Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#6 Post by Karalael Moonsinger »

For all those who were interested, if you still are, this hasn't been forgotten, it's merely been on hiatus as life got in the way. Chapter Two: The Young Prince Returns will be up soon (i.e. the next couple of days :) )
[quote="rdghuizing"]
Besides, the battle of Finuval Plain was more a minor skirmish anyway. A good enough summary would have been "Teclis and Malekith ran into each other. Teclis cast The Dwellers Below on Malekith with IF, and Malekith failed his Strength test." Not much more to it then that really.[/quote]
Karalael Moonsinger
Chronicler
Posts: 185
Joined: Mon Apr 09, 2012 6:23 pm
Location: Tor Lupa, Saphery (or Manchester, England)

Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#7 Post by Karalael Moonsinger »

In fact, here it is :P
_______________________________________________________

Chapter Two. The Young Prince Returns.

Karalael’s feeling of trepidation, that had started growing as he reached Northern Saphery, grew even stronger as the convoy drew closer and closer to the walled Tor he called home. Night had fallen as they approached the lofty, scarred walls, his gaze was drawn to the gatehouse; the walls made of glistening white marble, the spires made of tiles of the darkest blue, a blue mirrored in the cloth of the pennants that fluttered aimlessly in the breeze, the black wolf sigil of the House Moonsinger somehow managing to look forlorn instead of imposing.

Reaching the ornate bronze gates, the group were called to a halt by a pair of soldiers. Soldiers, the young Prince was startled to see, wearing the wolfskin cloaks and ornate helms which marked them as being from his father’s, and now his, Household Guard. One of them, the taller of the pair, strode forward and looking at Karalael and ordered, “State your business here, esteemed travellers, the Steward has many important tasks to do and should not be disturbed.” From the looks he gave them, it was clear he thought the group were messengers or envoys looking for shelter before travelling on to Avelorn.

Urging his mount forward, Karalael replied, “I am Karalael Moonsinger, I am here to claim my Wardenship of this Tor as well as to mourn my father, let us pass.” At his words, the guard who had spoken mumbled apologies and gestured at his companion to open the reinforced gates.

Entering the city for the first time in over a century, the young Warden-to-be looked around him, his heart full of emotion. Before it spilled over, he dismounted and led both his horse and the procession of Sword Masters through the bustling streets to the citadel, where the steward would be arranging the funeral arrangements as well as the ceremony to pass over rule and duties of the Lord of Tor Lupa.

Fighting through the bustle of the frantic and grieving city, the procession eventually reached the steep causeway that led to the ancient portcullis of the citadel and, as they were let through by the guards, Karalael let his mind wander to the last time he had passed under the immense archway.

He had been angry that day, feeling as if he were being sent away as punishment or for not being as good as his father wished him to be. His father had presented him with the very same scale travelling armour he was wearing now. “My boy, this is not a punishment, this is an education worthy of your birth.One that your exploits with our Silver Helms shows you are ready for.” That is what his father had said as he gave the gift

He wished that he had listened more, shown more appreciation, more affection, more respect.


He was startled from his reverie as Giliad gently placed his hand upon Karalael’s shoulder, “My Lord, we have reached the courtyard. The Steward is waiting in the Great Hall.”

Shaking his head slightly to remove the remnant memories, the young elf dismounted before turning to his newest companion, “Thank you Giliad, come let us meet with him immediately. I’m sure he will be wanting to conduct the proper ceremonies without delay.”

The pair swiftly made their way to the Great Hall, Karalael remembering all the shortcuts and routes through the worked marble passageways. As they opened the stout oaken doors Karalael faltered, his breath took away by the forgotten majesty of his home’s Hall. The room itself was easily large to fit two, or perhaps more, of the Tower’s classrooms, the artful placement of the oak, elm, and ash tables so that places were set by rank and heritage yet none were offended, the warm glow from the glittering silver chandeliers filled with magelight arranged to simulate the constellations of Ulthuan, pages stood here and there ready to serve any of the noble visitors to the citadel and finally, at the far end of the hall, sat his fathers seat of power, his seat of power, the throne of Tor Lupa. It was a modest, subtle affair compared to the splendor of the rest of the room, but in its aged wood carvings of glorious battles past and the faded wolf-fur upholstery, it exuded a power and a sense of majesty that was hard to ignore.

Seated upon the throne was an elf, dressed in white mourning clothes, cut in the latest fashion of Lothern, a thick golden chain around his neck. Recognising his father’s trusted friend to be the Steward, Karalael walked towards him and bowed slightly, “Ashil, I have received the letter you sent me at the White Tower, I came as swiftly as possible to pay my last respects to my father and to assist with the funerary rites. What can I do?”

“Ah Karalael, you were only a young elf of barely eighty when I last saw you. I am glad to see you again, despite the circumstances, however the circumstances being such as they are, we have a great many things to do. Firstly, and to Ulthuan, most importantly, we need to pass on the Wardenship of this fair city. I shall finish preparation for the ceremony tomorrow, I will get a page to show you and the esteemed loremaster to your chambers. No doubt you are tired, and you will wish to be well rested for the day to come.”

As Ashil finished speaking he motioned over a page whose hastily executed bow earned a slight smile from Karalael, before he led the two mages to their respective chambers to prepare for the ceremony and festivities tomorrow.

__________________________________________

Hope you enjoy reading it as much as enjoyed writing it :D
Last edited by Karalael Moonsinger on Wed Nov 20, 2013 1:48 am, edited 1 time in total.
[quote="rdghuizing"]
Besides, the battle of Finuval Plain was more a minor skirmish anyway. A good enough summary would have been "Teclis and Malekith ran into each other. Teclis cast The Dwellers Below on Malekith with IF, and Malekith failed his Strength test." Not much more to it then that really.[/quote]
Glorfindain
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Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#8 Post by Glorfindain »

I'm really enjoying the read, thanks for posting!
Karalael Moonsinger
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Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#9 Post by Karalael Moonsinger »

Hmmm, I've just had a thought, I really need a reason to explain the Hatred Goblins and what not that come from my usage of Eltharion's rules... Anyone got any ideas?
[quote="rdghuizing"]
Besides, the battle of Finuval Plain was more a minor skirmish anyway. A good enough summary would have been "Teclis and Malekith ran into each other. Teclis cast The Dwellers Below on Malekith with IF, and Malekith failed his Strength test." Not much more to it then that really.[/quote]
Karalael Moonsinger
Chronicler
Posts: 185
Joined: Mon Apr 09, 2012 6:23 pm
Location: Tor Lupa, Saphery (or Manchester, England)

Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#10 Post by Karalael Moonsinger »

And an update:

I'm not as happy with this chapter, it just didn't flow as well as I wanted, but it needed to be done as I have a lot to get through and I know if I stagnate for too long, I'll end up not finishing it, and I've got marriages, Nagarathi, werewolves and goblins to get too yet, that's what we all want, right? :lol:

Anyhoo, the chapter:
_______________________________________________________

Chapter Three: Preparations

Karalael groaned as the sun crested the Annulii Mountains, and shone directly onto his face through the open Eatanian windows that led to the balcony. As he stirred himself into motion, he swiftly noticed something; someone had entered his chambers while he slept, as evidenced by the open windows, and the breakfast set out on the table there, as well as the dusky golden plate armour, so dark as to almost be mistaken for bronze, set out upon his travelling chest with a scroll of parchment placed upon it.

Knowing that the day would be a long one, the young elf went first, to the table and the seats on the balcony. Whoever had set the place had picked a magnificent spot, the seat at just the right angle to be able to easily watch the sun rise above the snow-tipped peaks, and with barely a position change, to just as easily see the forests of Avelorn become gradually more radiant as the sun’s rays glinted of the lush green of the forests. Enjoying both the views and the simple, but delicious, meal of crepes and berries, Karalael had to force himself to go back into his chambers and examine the contents of the scroll.

Good morning, my Prince,

I hope this scroll reaches you after a good night’s rest, as today is liable to be quite long and tiring.
Firstly, is the matter of the Rite of Inheritance, the ceremony where you shall be enthroned as Sovereign, and Warden, of Tor Lupa. Immediately after that, there are several matters of court that require the Prince’s attention. Then finally, the Celebration Ball, where several dignitaries will be attending from the other Houses of Saphery to congratulate you.

The ceremony will begin at the tenth hour, I have sent you your ancestral plate to wear, please be at the Great Hall by the ninth hour for preparations.

Your loyal steward,

Ashil Relytre

As he finished reading, the sound of the great gongs in the Shrines of Asuryan and Kurnous rang out eight times, the clear ringing tones of the Flame making an exquisite counterpoint to the bassy rumblings of the Wild. Karalael sighed as the final reverberation echoed away to nothingness, he had just under an hour to get ready. Taking the plate off his chest, he proceeded to dress himself in blue silks that matched his family colours, before donning the various layers of his armour; the gold edged gambeson, the travelling scale then lastly, finally, his family’s ancestral plate.

The young Prince then reached once more into his chest, his hand connecting with fur. Standing, he pivoted and was surrounded by a midnight blue blur. As he came to a halt in front of the mirror fastening his cloaks golden wolf clasp, staring back at him was an elf that looked much changed from the mage that had left the Tower a day earlier, he looked noble. Regal. More than that, he looked like a Prince. He took one final look at himself, gave a quick sigh then went to face his destiny.

As he arrived at the Great Hall, the preparations were already well underway, the tables had been moved to the walls, the seats arrayed in rank upon rank, some already filled by the nobility of the Tor, with a clear pathway from doorway to throne. Ashil, despite being laden with a mass of sheaves of paper and attendants, was directing the hive of activity with the same efficiency he used to run the might of Tor Lupa. Upon seeing Karalael however, he unloaded both paperwork and elves on a harried looking minor functionary and rushed to inspect his lord. “Hmmm, yes, very nice. It will do, you look the double of your father at his enthronement, which will do very nicely indeed.” He gently guided the younger elf towards the throne.

“Now, my lord, if you will permit me to walk you through the ceremony. Firstly we shall seat all the guests and nobles from this and neighbouring Tors, then you shall enter with an honour guard of Household Guard, led by myself and Giliad representing both sides of your strength, then you shall recite an oath, pledging service to the Phoenix and to uphold the honour of your positions. Finally at the end, you shall be presented with the Great Fang and the Shield of Tor Lupa, the artifacts that prove your lineage and your badge of office. ”

Karalael nodded then turned to the Steward, “And after that? Then can I see my father?”

“Of course, I will have an escort ready and waiting, my lord.”

“Thank you, my friend. So tell me more about this evening and this… ball. And please call me Karalael” Karalael’s distaste for the fancy masquerade balls and the politicking that inevitably happened there was clear in both his tone and his expression.
“Karalael, I understand that you dislike the balls, but they are a fact of Asur society, and while you may not like the politics, you need to become political if you are to keep the Moonsinger name strong and esteemed. But as for tonight, it serves dual purposes; firstly to celebrate the day and secondly to present you to Sapherian society, and potential allies.” He paused as Karalael rolled his eyes, “Yes, yes. I know. Politics. Now it is almost time, the guests will be arriving soon and there is much still to be done, if you find Giliad, I shall join you shortly.” He pointed Karalael back towards the oak doors, indicating he should go and prepare.



Hopefully it is still worth a read despite the trouble it caused me, and you'll come back to read about his coronation. (Is that the right word for a Prince?)
Last edited by Karalael Moonsinger on Fri Dec 12, 2014 11:30 pm, edited 1 time in total.
[quote="rdghuizing"]
Besides, the battle of Finuval Plain was more a minor skirmish anyway. A good enough summary would have been "Teclis and Malekith ran into each other. Teclis cast The Dwellers Below on Malekith with IF, and Malekith failed his Strength test." Not much more to it then that really.[/quote]
vespacian1
Posts: 278
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Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#11 Post by vespacian1 »

Really enjoyable reads!
I was thinking about the Hatred: Goblin, two thoughts.

1. You could rewrite the intro and have his father get killed by Goblins.
2. The story about how he gets his griffon could be goblin related, like maybe he decides to find his griffon in the Empire because they're reputed to be bigger and in the process his captain or childhood friend, or mentor gets killed by a filthy goblin.

Keep it up, looking forward to the next one.
Karalael Moonsinger
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Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#12 Post by Karalael Moonsinger »

Sorry to keep you all waiting, but here it is. An update :)
_______________________________________________________

Chapter 4: The Start of an Era

Waiting in the gatehouse surrounded by ten Household Guards; tall, serious looking elves bedecked in the finest wolfskin cloaks and ithilmar armour, and armed with the halberds wielded by their regiment when not mounted, as well as the serene yet imposing Giliad, Karalael felt nervous, impatient and slightly claustrophobic. Turning his thoughts to the day ahead, he felt himself almost unconsciously start to begin meditating as his tutors taught him in his first decade of studies.

He was beginning to feel calm and like an elf again, when Ashil’s voice came through the door, “My Lord, we are ready to begin.”

Karalael opened the door and watched as the Guards formed two files of five, with Giliad leading one, Ashil the other. He then took his place at the front, and with a deep breath, led the procession towards the Great Hall.

As they drew closer to the great oak doors, the group saw them open and heard the sound of silver clarions begin to play and the voice of an announcer call out “My Lords and Ladies, esteemed guests. Karalael Moonsinger, Lord of Tor Lupa.”

As the procession continued between the seats to the throne, the young elf saw many famed sigils mainly from Saphery or it’s neighbours, Eataine, Yvresse and Avelorn, but a few from further afield, Chrace, Tiranoc and even a Caledorian seated around the hall as well as three pages, clad in the Moonsinger colours and each holding a wooden case, stood next to the throne.

As they reached the throne, the ten Guards and Giliad all turned to Karalael and bowed away, leaving him alone with Ashil. The older elf turned to the assembled crowds, “Honoured visitors, we gather here today to grant and charge Karalael, son of Analael, with Wardenship of this Tor and the protection of the Avelorn-Saphery border. To this end, we shall hear his pledge to the Phoenix Crown, as well as deliver to him his inheritance so he may better fulfil his duties. Now, my Prince, do you swear by Asuryan, the Undying Flame and Kurnous, the Lord of the Hunt that you shall protect your Tor, your lands and your allies with whatever power you may possess, to the best of your ability?”

“By the Undying Flame and the Lord of the Hunt, I swear”

Ashil motions to the first of the three pages, who makes his way over to the pair and, crouching, offers the opened case. Reaching in, the Steward takes out a shield emblazoned with a wolf rampant, the sigil of House Moonsinger, the jewelled eye shimmering with an ephemeral glory, hinting at the protective spells concealed within. “Then I present you with the Shield of Tor Lupa, the symbol of the Warden’s of Tor Lupa since the office was first entrusted to the Moonsinger family. May it protect you well.” He motions over the second page and then, reaching into the second case, pulls out a gem-encrusted longsword, sheathed in a plain leather scabbard with a single embellishment, the rune of Kurnous, “Next, it is my great honour to present you with the heirloom that grants you the title of Prince, the Great Fang. This sword was woven with the greatest blessing of the Priests of Kurnous, which imbue the bearer's blows with the savage rending power of the Lord of the Hunt.”

Stepping around Karalael, to behind the throne Ashil invites Karalael to sit while indicating the third page should join him. As the young prince seats himself, Ashil lifts an ithilmar circlet out of the last case and places it on his Lord’s brow, to the applause and cheers of the assembled elves.

Karalael stood, arms outstretched to silence the Hall, before addressing the assembled elves, “My friends, I am honoured that so many of you would come to witness this and so, in order to commemorate that friendship, I invite you all to head to the ballroom where the Celebration Ball shall be held, I will join you all shortly after dealing with some affairs of the Tor, so please, enjoy yourselves.”
[quote="rdghuizing"]
Besides, the battle of Finuval Plain was more a minor skirmish anyway. A good enough summary would have been "Teclis and Malekith ran into each other. Teclis cast The Dwellers Below on Malekith with IF, and Malekith failed his Strength test." Not much more to it then that really.[/quote]
Headshot
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Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#13 Post by Headshot »

Exciting stuff! I'm looking forward to more backstory. :)

One thing I was wondering about, since I have limited access to fluff, but what do you know about the geography of Saphery? I've seen a bit through Annalyth's eyes, but not much else. Do you know where your Tor and Irian lie? And what's the climate/topography like thereabouts?

Just curious as a fan of Saphery (and maps) here!

(love me them Sapphics! :wink: )

headshot
[quote="Seredain"]Headshot, you are wise like Yoda[/quote]
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Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#14 Post by Aicanor »

So Karalael is a Prince now? Good luck to him and may his stewardship over Tor Lupa be a long one.

@ Headshot, s a matter of fact, we know, Tor Lupa lies not far from th borders of Avelorn and Tor Irian is one of the ports that provide access to the White Tower:

Image

As for the climate, it is quite mild save for occasional winds from the Sea of Dreams, and sometimes disturbances in magic winds as they flow strongly through the land there. But our waystones are well tended and the magic that flows there is more like in nature to the magic of Avelorn than the wild winds from the outer world. But the imbalances in the Vortex can have a great influence sometimes.
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Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#15 Post by Karalael Moonsinger »

@ Headshot. Well, it seems reasonable, they seem to love you Nagarathi :P (Except this one, he's partial to Eatainii, well someone has to be :P )

@ Aicanor. Yup, and here's hoping, though he may not like it. He's going to put through the ringer. Poor elf. Also congratulations on the Heraldship :)
[quote="rdghuizing"]
Besides, the battle of Finuval Plain was more a minor skirmish anyway. A good enough summary would have been "Teclis and Malekith ran into each other. Teclis cast The Dwellers Below on Malekith with IF, and Malekith failed his Strength test." Not much more to it then that really.[/quote]
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Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#16 Post by Headshot »

Hmmm Tor Lupa is near Annalyth's hometown. Does the domain run to the river border with Avelorn and the sea? Wonder if the Moonsinger was her ruling lord….

Aicanor, you should sketch the view from some tower window from Tor Irian. Just so I can see the countryside! :)

Headshot (with no sketching ability)
[quote="Seredain"]Headshot, you are wise like Yoda[/quote]
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Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#17 Post by Karalael Moonsinger »

Hmmm, it probably would go to the river actually, especially since he's charged with protecting the Avelorn-Saphery border. I know Karalael has his own hawkship (a wedding present) which tends to be docked in the little bay just below the Elaranna bay, so I know it goes to the sea.

So yes, I'd say the domain does in fact reach the river and sea :)
[quote="rdghuizing"]
Besides, the battle of Finuval Plain was more a minor skirmish anyway. A good enough summary would have been "Teclis and Malekith ran into each other. Teclis cast The Dwellers Below on Malekith with IF, and Malekith failed his Strength test." Not much more to it then that really.[/quote]
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Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#18 Post by Karalael Moonsinger »

I'm actually really happy I got this chapter finished, as it means I can finally have a crack at a Asur high society ball in the next, which is good as I've had the rough groundwork for it whirring around my head for weeks now. So with extreme happiness, have an update :D
_______________________________________________________

Chapter Five: Fond Farewells.

As the last of the guests left the hall, Karalael sighed, he was glad the ceremony was over. It meant he could finally go and perform the proper funerary traditions for his father. Looking over at Ashil, who stood waiting with the ten elves that had formed his honour guard, he motioned the Steward over, “Ashil, I believe I’m ready to go to my father. Please ask Giliad and half the Guard to go to the celebrations and relax, this is a private moment and I’d prefer the smallest possible group, and please would you get the necessary items for the funerary rites. Thank you.”

After a moment, the newly crowned Prince was left with his minimalistic retinue, leading them through the corridors of the Tor towards the elaborate mausoleum in the Tor itself dedicated to housing the Moonsinger dead. Walking through the city, past the two shrines of Asuryan and Kurnous, a thought struck Karalael “Ashil, tell me how he died, all I know is he died in battle.”

“Of course, my Lord. Your father was leading a force against a force of the Enemy. They were threatening to push into Avelorn, no-one quite knows how they managed to push so far north but they did. So your father rode out to meet them, his forces managed to win the field and he managed to slay their general, a behemoth of death and steel, but unfortunately he took a grievous blow that took him from us before any of our healers could reach him. I would take this opportunity to give my condolences for your loss and apologise that we are only now seeing your father.”

Karalael thanked his friend and, arriving at the elaborately etched bronze and silver doors of his family crypt, stopped to take a breath. Stepping forward to open the doors, Ashil took a key out of his robes and unlocked and opened the doors, before stepping back to allow his Prince to enter first. Steeling himself, the young Prince strode into the mausoleum, striding past the graves of his forefathers and relatives until he reached a large ornate stone casket that started a row of similar graves, all of which were covered in the a dark blue covering, adorned with variations of the Moonsinger heraldry, all as pristine as the day they were placed in the crypt. Turning down this row, the young Prince walked past the heads of his family, past Lael, the first Warden of Tor Lupa, granted his title by Aenarion himself, past Lirael, the Moon-Maiden, chosen by the Everqueen to be a Handmaiden, all the way to the last closed casket, his father’s, the last resting place of Analael, the Grey Wolf. Kneeling before his father, Karalael asked Ashil to bring forward the items they had brought with them. Receiving the case containing them, the grieving elf opened it to reveal three rune-etched vials of liquid, a folded grave mantle and a stone replica of the sword now strapped to Karalael’s hip.

Taking out one of the vials, etched with the rune of remembrance Daroir, he opened it and sprinkled the contents onto the stone slab in front of him, placing the vial back, he then repeated the action with the other two vials, Caladai, lordship, and Sariour, the Moon, before drawing the mantle out of the box, standing, and covering the tomb in front of him. Finally, he withdrew the stone sword and, intoning the ritualistic farewell of his House, placed it on the mantle running pommel to tip, head to toe. “Farewell, Father.” He whispered as he turned from the grave and motioned that he was ready to leave.

Arriving back at the citadel, Karalael headed back to his room, to change out of his armour and prepare the celebrations. Removing his cloak and the golden plate armour, he placed them back on his travelling chest, making a mental note to see about getting himself an armour stand. The ithilmar scale swiftly joined it, its lightweight metal making a delicate ringing as it connected with the enchanted gold of the plate. The gambeson, Karalael placed on the bed. His armour now off, the young elf faced his wardrobe, which had been filled by the servants during the ceremony, trying to decide what to wear to the evening’s celebrations. Finally he managed to whittle his outfit down to a navy blue silk tunic trimmed with purple and turquoise, suede trousers, finished off with a black jerkin and soft leather knee-length boots. Adorning his cloak again, Karalael made his way to the ballroom.
[quote="rdghuizing"]
Besides, the battle of Finuval Plain was more a minor skirmish anyway. A good enough summary would have been "Teclis and Malekith ran into each other. Teclis cast The Dwellers Below on Malekith with IF, and Malekith failed his Strength test." Not much more to it then that really.[/quote]
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Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#19 Post by Aicanor »

Interesting description of the rites. Not long, but touching.

@Headshot, that is a challenge. I can try. You have a lot of imagination so my skills might be sufficient to give you the idea. :mrgreen:
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Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#20 Post by Karalael Moonsinger »

Sorry it's been so long people. The next chapter has been blocking me like crazy. I'm going to try and crack it in the next week or so, so if you're still interested in the werewolf of saphery, stay tuned :D
[quote="rdghuizing"]
Besides, the battle of Finuval Plain was more a minor skirmish anyway. A good enough summary would have been "Teclis and Malekith ran into each other. Teclis cast The Dwellers Below on Malekith with IF, and Malekith failed his Strength test." Not much more to it then that really.[/quote]
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Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#21 Post by deecee »

Are you going to add in any of the end times stuff?
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Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#22 Post by Karalael Moonsinger »

Probably. Though we're about 500 years give or take a couple of decades from that at the minute, which is good, it gives me time to actually decide what'll happen.
[quote="rdghuizing"]
Besides, the battle of Finuval Plain was more a minor skirmish anyway. A good enough summary would have been "Teclis and Malekith ran into each other. Teclis cast The Dwellers Below on Malekith with IF, and Malekith failed his Strength test." Not much more to it then that really.[/quote]
Karalael Moonsinger
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Re: The Rise of the Amber Wolf

#23 Post by Karalael Moonsinger »

Hooray! An update. I'm hoping that in this I managed to capture the feeling that Karalael is, at this point anyway, still a youngish elf and with the loss of his father, slightly fragile.

I also think I shouldn't play Dragon Age 2 when creating female characters as I'm convinced Faenice was more than a little inspired by Isabella :P

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Chapter Five: New Friends

Karalael opened the doors to the ballroom, accompanied by the sounds of the herald announcing his arrival, to be greeted by the sight of one of the wonders of the world; an Asur ball. Artfully arranged around the walls were several large round tables, forming a frame of lace and satin around a polished wooden floor, most of which was hidden by the graceful motion and mesmerizing colours of elven nobility dancing.

In the farthest corner playing silver trumpets and polished violins, as well as many other instruments were the minstrels, whose stirring and beautiful melodies were sweeping through the hall and matching the mood of the room exquisitely. As Karalael moved further into the celebrations, he realized he could see several elves he recognised, at one of the tables engrossed in conversation with a noble from Avelorn were Prince Saicaran and Lady Vanieth Nenuvar of Tor Irian, further in dancing with a pretty and spirited Chracian was the equally high spirited Laurnelir the Red, a dragon mage who had pledged himself to his father’s service and lived a few leagues south or the Tor.

And beyond him, Karalael had never seen such a beauty, dressed in a white Cathayan silk dress, edged in red and yellow flames, the colours set off magnificently by the waterfall of auburn locks cascading down her bare back. She looked up and, noticing the young elf staring, started to smile slightly. Karalael embarrassedly looked away, not noticing the elf maiden’s approach until she was next to him. “So, my Lord, did you like what you saw?” Karalael looked up in shock, stammering apologies, noticing the laughter in the eyes of the elf next to him too late. “I’m Faenice , of Eataine. I’m here as representative for my father, Prince Faenriel Starseeker, an ally of your father’s and an admiral in the Phoenix’s fleet, he’d have come himself to congratulate you, however he’s helping sweep away the Norse raiders that still remain. So, my Lord, shall we dance?” She started walking away, a friendly teasing smile on her lips.

Karalael faltered for a moment, flummoxed by the Lady’s forwardness, then mentally shrugged, she was after all from Eataine, before following Faenice into the throng. As they had started to do the tango, a strange dance from the colonies that had become the latest craze in the high society, the young Moonsinger found he couldn’t take his eyes off the Eataini throughout the dance. As the music stopped, Faenice laughed, “Really, my Lord, you must stop staring, we’ll be the talk of the Tor if you keep on.” She winked, to show she was teasing, before announcing she needed refreshment.

As the pair arrived at the banquet tables, all laden with platters artfully arranged with the finest exotic cuisines and the some quality vintage Ellyrion wine, Karalael collected two flutes and passed one to his companion, “So tell me Faecine, how did our fathers come to know each other?”

“Initially it was a purely militaristic alliance, back when my father was just Captain of a Hawkship, he took your father into Elthin Arvan to counter one of the Druchii plots there. I don’t know the specifics, but they struck up a friendship and, when they gained their titles and more responsibility, they worked together quite frequently.”

“Given their friendship, I will have to visit Prince Faenriel, see if he would be interested in maintaining our family ties.”

The red-haired elf leaned in, kissing the young Prince on the cheek, “I’m sure he’d like that, I know I would. However, I feel I’ve taken up too much of your time, I’m sure your Steward has people you have to meet and other such important tasks. So I shall let you get back to your guests.” She gave him one last slightly mischievous smile, before turning and mingling back into the celebrations.

By Kurnous, are all Eatainii like that?!

He didn’t have long to himself to ponder over that thought, as Ashil was upon him in an instant taking him to be introduced to several of his guests. Most of the night passed without, in the young Moonsinger’s eyes, too much of interest. He found the chats with his fellow Sapherians, Prince Nenuvar and Larnelir especially, enlightening and invigorating which was good as most of the other conversation went straight over the beleaguered Prince’s head.

By the time Karalael managed to make it back to his bedchamber, he was feeling very much out his depth and ill-prepared.


And as I've not been writing for a while (about 10 months apparently), please feel free to give constructive criticism and suggestions :)
[quote="rdghuizing"]
Besides, the battle of Finuval Plain was more a minor skirmish anyway. A good enough summary would have been "Teclis and Malekith ran into each other. Teclis cast The Dwellers Below on Malekith with IF, and Malekith failed his Strength test." Not much more to it then that really.[/quote]
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