Valiant Hearts [Mentor/Solitude]

[Saskia]

HP 100% | MP 100%

Guardian - Cavalier - Brewer

____________________________________________________

Blessed was the day that fortune brought the weary warrioress, Saskia Steelheart, to the whimsical and bountiful fields of the enchanted Savill flower grove. It was a blissful day where the scorching sun had just peaked eloquently over the horizon and the tender gusts of wind gently blew the flourescent pink rose petals of her hair back as the breeze gently tickled her cheeks. She had journeyed for several days and several nights. It was her usual work. Storming in and out of various taverns, collecting coins for whatever duty or task she was assigned. She was quite often dispatched as part of the graveyard shift for the night’s watch, which made her very restless and unaccustomed to traveling during the day. Other times she would endure the grave risks of exploring uncharted caverns or making an effort to tame the wild amazons of the world in her rich desire for adventure.



If one would count the grains of sand that were stored within the hourglass of her time here in Elder Tale, they would soon find those grains would be turned to mud and have clogged the hourglass itself. As Saskia had poured many countless hours of sweat into her training. She studied rigorously in the art of swordplay under Pen Ddraig, a dear companion and bodyguard to her. The woman was considered to be more of a Shield-sister than anything else as they have joined the twin snakes of their swords on the battle field many a time. Saskia began to reflect on her first duels with the Red headed beast of a woman as she gripped the reigns of her horse, Icarus, tightly and jerked it to the right as she headed down the trail in a gentle trot.



She was conducting a simple patrol of the area and typically not much would be going on during the day, had it not been for her having that scroll. It was just a simple quest to gather some meat for the local marketplace. A simple quest that she usually farmed, just to get the food she needed throughout the day without having to waste finances. She was an exceptionally frugal woman and prefer to pinch every penny she could on her travels.

Food was definitely something she needed to pack a lot of, as she had not only to worry about her health, but the well-being of her war horse as well.



Icarus was a mighty steed, his coat was a shiny and majestic shade of white, like freshly fallen snow. The hue that adorned his gallant mane and tail was of a vibrant platinum blonde as he continued to trot down the field towards a lake. Saskia tugged on the reigns once more, beckoning the beast to a halt as she slid off him and began to fill a canteen by the bank of the lake. She was clad in heavy platemail and her scabbard was a royal blue, embroidered with gold lacing. She continued to fill the canteen peacefully as she enjoyed her solitude beside her beloved companion, Icarus.


"We're burning daylight...better get a move on, Icarus, before the nasty creatures of the night start to stir..." 

INVENTORY

EQUIPMENT: Starter Platemail, Starter Great Shield, Starter Longsword
ABILITIES USED:
Words: 532
Post Theme Song: Revolutions



TAGS: solitude@lopezj2552

template by caesar

[solitude]

"Kahlan!" Locke-Shaw dashed towards his companion Kahlan, a bloodied and bruised horse laying on a stone ground, a hooded figure standing beside it. The figure sighed, "Too bad, you have failed to protect her. Foolish child, you will learn that there is no such thing as friendship in a world of deceit." A seeping black liquid oozed from the hooded figure's sleeves and creeped inside Kahlan's wounds. The horse whinnied and cried for dear life, without the energy to move. Suddenly, her eyes began to glaze over, before her head fell onto the ground, eyes half-opened. The figure disappeared, and Locke made it to her side. Tears rippled down his face as he held Kahlan close, her blood drenching his clothes. "Why? please don't leave me alone..." Suddenly, Kahlan burst to anima. "Kahlan!..." Locke heard a laughter closing in on him from the blackness. "Mother, why do you hate me so?"

Locke-Shaw's eyes opened with a start, a sharp breath entering his lungs. He sighed as he noticed Kahlan's head just above his, awoken and watching Locke with concern. Her orb-like eyes absorbed all of Locke's attention and worries, and he managed to whisper, "Thank God..." Locke kissed the shire's muzzle. The area was beautiful, flower colors ran variant as if a mad artist spilled his paint on a flowery canvas, but managed to create the most beautiful scene. The sun cast down on them like a spotlight only they could see, and Locke slowly absorbed the warm air into his lungs, and exhaled.

Kahlan is a bay-colored mare with a white spot left side of her belly, and on her snout. She has rather large hooves with a mop of white hair twisting around them. Her mane is an onyx color of medium length. She has a muscular body, but the heart of a young mare; not a battle mount, to say the least. Her most prized feature was her beautiful eyes that were alluring and captivating. When she began to lick the ground, Locke gave a smile, "Thirsty, girl?" Kahlan grunted and stood, Locke taking his time, sheathing his halberd and attaching the saddle on the bay shire. He climbed on, armor now adorned, and patted the horse's sides with his feet, lightly tugging the reins to signal directions. Since the ride was so leisurely, he managed to let go and untangle some knots out of her mane.

"Where is kahlan?"

Locke blinked, What was that? He shook his head, paying it no heed. "Ive had just enough of those dreams, i swear it." Finally after a few minutes, he reached a lake. He marked it in his mind for later, but stopped the horse when Locke saw another pair by the lake. He sighed, I hope i don't bother the lady and her beautiful horse. The lady was equally as eye-catching, if not more-so. How her pink hair flows, how her eyes gleam... Locke shook his head, Control yourself, she could be as much danger as a friend. Slowly, he got off his horse, taking off the saddle and bridle and led Kahlan to the water's edge, allowing her to drink unburdened.


He let out a smile, "Nice day isn't it? i hope im not interrupting anything. My horse was thirsty so i thought..." He just couldn't quite finish the sentence, her beauty was captivating. After a moment, he sat beside the horse, using her to hide his embarrassing blushed expression. Dammit man, this is why we don't talk to people is it? I've never been much a good speaker with people i just meet, and on top of that... Why did the person have to be so gorgeous?! He sighed, rubbing a bit of water on his face as he finally stopped blushing, making sure not to get much water on his beard. Kahlan seemed to have a hidden laugh with her small whinnie, glancing at Locke, and Locke giving a quick sharp stare. Your the worst, Kahlan...

Word Count: 662

[Saskia]

HP 100% | MP 100%

Guardian - Cavalier - Brewer

____________________________________________________

The gallant horse gave a dutiful nod in response to his master words. Over time, they begun to understand one another as Icarus began to devote himself more and more to the sole will of his virtuous master. It was as if it were a bond forged by the great goddesses of the avian princesses. Icarus had become an extension of Saskia’s very being as he joined beside her and nuzzled his head warmly against her side. This brought a bright smile to Saskia’s cherry lips as she nodded affectionately towards the horse and rose up to rest her head alongside his.



The mature horse welcomed his owner’s company by giving her a cheerful licking across the cheek. This made Saskia squirm playfully and giggle as she used her shoulder to wipe off the coat of saliva that stuck to her cheeks.



“Haha, Mama loves her baby’s kisses! Yes, she does! Who’s a good boy! Who’s a good boy! That’s a right! You are~!” Saskia cooed as she rustled the cloth of her iron gauntlets through the beast’s vanilla coated mane.



She chuckled as she heard a voice bellow from...below? Saskia looked ocer in the general direction of the voice, then looked left. Then right. All she could see was another shire.



“Wait...did that horse just...” Saskia blinked until the silhouette of a short statured man entered her field of vision as she lowered her gaze. “Oh, my apologies, Master Dwarf! Didn’t see you there!”



Saskia gazed slightly guilty at Icarus, who seemed to wear an expression similiar to a facepalm, if horses could ever do such a thing. Instead he merely shook his head and blew air out his nose as he noticed the other shire. He trotted towards her curiously and nodded his head up and down as he inspected her.



Saskia tilted her head at him in a bewildered fashion and turned her attention back to the dwarf that stood in a coat of armor and wielding a Halberd.



He seemed to be well designed and had a bit neater of an appearance than most Dwarfs she had the company of encountering. He seemed to spark her interest as she listened to his words. It also seemed he ,too, was a mighty cavalier, though his horse was a bit less mature than her her own.



She smiled back warmly as her left hand rested on the hilt of her sword. It might have been taken as an act of hostility as she unconsciously did this every time she met people, it might have been a bad habit she picked up when she was more wary about strangers. However, she was calm and open to the stranger. For he seemed to be of good and earnest character, and well, he was a freaking Dwarf with a horse! How badass was that!



Saskia chuckled and parted her lips to speak a few words to the Dwarven Guardian.



“It is a beautiful day. I rarely come to the Savill Flower Grove, but it is lovely out here and the flowers are simply captivating. I could probably just lay out here in the fields all day. But then again, I risk the change of being nibbled on by a pittered boar or something!” Saskia grinned.



“So, you finding your way around the guardian and cavalier classes pretty well?” Saskia inquired.



“You know, I feel that that really is one of the best class setups one could have for a Guardian. The value of a warhorse is remarkable on the field. There’s probably not a battle I go to where Icarus isn’t at my side.” Saskia states as she wraps hers slender fingers around Icarus’s reigns, tugging him back from getting to close to the other Dwarf’s horse.



“He’s always digging his nose into other people’s business...forgive me..” Saskia beamed with delight while speaking. “ Saskia Steelheart, by the way.”

INVENTORY

EQUIPMENT: Starter Platemail, Starter Great Shield, Starter Longsword
ABILITIES USED:
Words: 650
Post Theme Song: Sublimination



TAGS: solitude

template by caesar

[solitude]

A silver, eel-like fish slithered near the shore of the lake, making a short leap near Saskia as Kahlan tried to catch it with her teeth before disappearing once again into the depths of the water. Locke-Shaw stared at the disturbed water's ripples, allowing his anxiety to dissipate with them. The water managed to splash up to Kahlan's muzzle, forcing a furious sneeze and shake of the head. Kahlan caught sight of the beautiful white horse that was resting with Saskia, and stared at him, star struck by his elegance. Locke-Shaw patted Kahlan's back and gave out a chuckle.

“Oh, my apologies, Master Dwarf! Didn’t see you there!”

Locke-Shaw sighed, 'c'mon man, pull yourself together, you know how to speak!', he thought. Locke picked himself up and faced Saskia. Locke grunted, "i am short, but not of that stature, at least."
Locke's eyes narrowed once she placed her hand on the hilt of her blade, his right hand's fingers curling slightly. Her smile was nice and warm, yes. But with the sword near hand it seems she is about to serve death with a smile. Locke, knew it was false, but he entertained the thought. It is probably instinct, seeing how she knows quite a bit about this game, and a random stranger popping out of the wood work isn't exactly a wonderful sight, especially since player killings have arisen. At this idea, he relaxed.

“It is a beautiful day. I rarely come to the Savill Flower Grove, but it is lovely out here and the flowers are simply captivating. I could probably just lay out here in the fields all day. But then again, I risk the change of being nibbled on by a pittered boar or something!”

Locke smirked, "Aye, or maybe a player-slayer. Although the boar and a player-slayer are no different in that regard, i would guess." Locke saw player-slayers not but filthy mongrels hiding in the woods, similiar to a dirty, flesh crazed boar.

“So, you finding your way around the guardian and cavalier classes pretty well?”

Locke nodded, "From the times i've practiced, i found it a great combination! Although i have never used the two in combat, yet." He looked at Kahlan, who was slowly edging towards Saskia's horse, hoping to get to know him better. Locke-Shaw chuckled, "Although over time, my horse, Kahlan, and I have grown an unbreakable bond of friendship. I think of her as my horse-sister, honestly." Locke frowned, eyes softening "But she is no war-horse. I would want to teach her, but i'm not sure i can bring myself to do that, or if she would even want that." Locke looked back to Saskia, "No matter what choice we choose though, I will make sure Kahlan will be as happy as ever, I would hate to see her in sadness..." His eyes closed for a moment,

"Kahlan!..." The horse fell dead against the stone floor...

He shook his head, glancing at Kahlan, who has closed quite a bit of distance between her and the other horse. “You know, I feel that really is one of the best class setups one could have for a Guardian. The value of a warhorse is remarkable on the field. There’s probably not a battle I go to where Icarus isn’t at my side.” Locke smiled at this comment, "There is no place Kahlan will abandon me, our trust is eternal." When Saskia made her horse, now known as Icarus pull back, Kahlan stopped and stared into his eyes with her head tilted.

“He’s always digging his nose into other people’s business...forgive me..”

Locke waved his hands, a small chuckle escaping his lips, "No no, i think Kahlan wants to know him a bit more as well!" he gave a small laugh.

“ Saskia Steelheart, by the way.”

Locke bowed, right hand on his heart, and his left sticking straight out to the side like a stick. "And i am Locke-Shaw." He then stated, "We keep one hand to our heart to show sincerity and politeness, and the other hand to the side in view to show we do not have a hidden weapon in hand, hope it doesnt bother you too much."

He looked towards Icarus for a moment, then looked at Saskia, "Icarus looks to be a rather handsome but well-built horse, may i ask the breed?" Locke asked, quite curious.
"Also i must add, i have never expected anyone to come here, this doesn't seem like a very popular place to rest, which is unfortunate once you take in the beauty of this place."

Locke sighed, staring out into the sky,

"You who walk,
Maybe with troubled thoughts,
Come, enter here and rest;
And may the sweet serenity of growing things,
And the heavenly, peace
Be mirrored in thy soul. "

Locke looked back to Saskia, and smiled.

Word count: 808

[Saskia]

HP 100% | MP 100%

Guardian - Cavalier - Brewer

____________________________________________________

 Saskia raised a curious brow as the man seemed at a loss for words upon her introduction. She thought maybe he was going to curse her out or something for offending him, and braced herself for th brutal impact. However, he seemed rather polite and friendly in his gestures. Saskia couldn’t help but hold back a slight chuckle as she gazed in admiration of his burly beard. He seemed like a blonde midget version of santa claus and meanwhile she was struggling to fight the temptation to touch it. Sometimes the cotton candy haired warrioress was a child at heart, though she was supposed to be tending to her duties as the Academy headmistress for Vylbrand Academy of Tactics, Mystics, and Trade.



Sometimes she would be finding ways to enjoy her leisure time, generally soaking her lips in booze and fresh margaritas and playing hooky while leaving most of the work to Bailin, her Dierector of Education. Other times however, she worked in tandem alongside the cadets and worked closely with the members of the Unbekantten divisoin, planning secret covert missions and assignments.



Saskia was a rather peculiar and unpredictable woman, and would no doubt play to her strengths when she needed to take matters seriously, but for now, she simply wanted to have fun.



She chuckled at how he mentioned player slayers and cocked an interested pink eyebrow. She enjoyed the flavor of his speeh and the Dwarven accent that accompanied it.



He seemed to have already been trying to get the hang of mounted combat, though Saskia was should that more or less what was holding him back was his horses level. Most shires that were still young and yet to have matured were a bit, well, finicky...when it came to fierce combat. Sure enough, they could get you there, but as soon as things got heated, they would bail on you in an instant. Saskia remembered how Icarus left her while a goblin had his claws wrapped around her neck and how she cursed violently at the cowardly animal who often stole her lunches and cost her a fortune to feed.



The man expressed a desire to teach the animal, but didn’t want to exactly force it on her. He seemed to care genuinely about the animal and nurtured it in a noble way. The bond they shared resembled her own with Icarus and this made her bounce with joy as she was an animal lover herself and could rarely bring herself to even harm the docile animals of the forest.



He made her feel more comfortable about letting Icarus meet Kahlan as he laughed heartily at their gestures.



Saskia tilted her head at the Dwarf as he went through a more formal greeting, then,, she instinctively responded by mirroring his gesture.



“Like this?” Saskia smiled curiously as she did the pose in a cheerful way. She was precise and fluid in her motion as she executed it. “And what did you mean by we? Is it a Dwarf thing? Or something else?”



Saskia asked, then smile as she said. “It seems like a good gesture, maybe I ought to teach it to my cadets at the Vylbrand Academy of Tactics, Mystics, and Trade. Might be a nice thing for those militant fellows in our Protectorate Division.”



She nodded at the thought, then looked up at her horse who was wagging his tail around and licking at the grass behind her.



“He’s a Friesian horse. The Friesian horse reportedly dates back 3000 years though the horse we know today was developed in the twelfth century in northern Europe. Friesians were ridden by the Teutonic Knights and used as war horses for the crusades. They could carry large loads, exist on meager rations, and were agile enough to be effective in battle. Don’t think I could have picked a better choice, personally.”



She blinked as the Dwarf entered a poetic trance.



“Ah, so you’re a poet. You know I used to dabble in that. I actually made music. Got a few pop albums out in Europe and America.” Saskia smiled. “So, Locke is your real name? Like the Lock on a door? That’s interesting. Well, my real name’s Hope McLaren!”



She then looked over to inspect Kahlan. “Well, what do you say we do a bit of training. While on horseback of course. Icarus and I could show you guys the ropes. Then later the basics, maybe we can go after a few mobs and go on about tanking and working in tandem with your partner. I got a few tricks of the trade I learned through my days as a mounted knight. “

INVENTORY

EQUIPMENT: Stratford Arms Platemail (Level. 30), Stratford Arms Great Shield (level. 30) , Stratford Arms Long Spear (Level. 30)
ABILITIES USED:
Words: 776
Post Theme Song: Taboo





TAGS: solitude

template by caesar

[solitude]

“Like this?” Locke watched Saskia almost effortlessly perform the greeting, and nodded. "Aye that is how it is done."
“And what did you mean by we? Is it a Dwarf thing? Or something else?” Locke shook his head, "Nay, it is from the real world. I was apart of a rather noble family and that was a greeting we commonly used. Although when it came to my parents..." He paused, It is probably not worth bringing up. "never mind."

“It seems like a good gesture, maybe I ought to teach it to my cadets at the Vylbrand Academy of Tactics, Mystics, and Trade. Might be a nice thing for those militant fellows in our Protectorate Division.”
Locke gave a curious look, "Aye, it is definitely a show of respect and trust, and a way to make sure you aren't gutted." Locke tilted his head, "and what is this Vylbrand Academy, forgive me for saying this, but i have never heard of such a thing! Is it an organization owned by some monarch? or is it like a school?" Locke wondered curiously, What is it used for?

“He’s a Friesian horse. The Friesian horse reportedly dates back 3000 years though the horse we know today was developed in the twelfth century in northern Europe. Friesians were ridden by the Teutonic Knights and used as war horses for the crusades. They could carry large loads, exist on meager rations, and were agile enough to be effective in battle. Don’t think I could have picked a better choice, personally.”

Locke nodded, "Sounds like a great choice! Although, it sounds like those who have them would only use them for combat, and never actually want to bond with them, sounds like a cruel exsistance for them in my opinion." His eyes narrowed, "The Teutonic order? I haven't heard of those people in along time, and where are they? so many mysteries."

“Ah, so you’re a poet. You know I used to dabble in that. I actually made music. Got a few pop albums out in Europe and America.” Saskia smiled. “So, Locke is your real name? Like the Lock on a door? That’s interesting. Well, my real name’s Hope McLaren!” Locke chuckled, scratching the back of his head, "well, my family forced poetry and other niceties into my head, but i do make my own form time to time."

Locke, surprised, said "Well, since you told me your real name, strange as that is nowadays, my name is Locke Sherwood. I am apart of a noble family Sherwood, third son of seven and Favorited. Why so many sons? well, my father constantly bedded other women besides the original mother in which me and the first two were born. They were a terrible people, but it seems being a noble needs plenty of cunning and evil. I hate it. I try not to let others know whom i am born to, as i'm ashamed of them."

“Well, what do you say we do a bit of training. While on horseback of course. Icarus and I could show you guys the ropes. Then later the basics, maybe we can go after a few mobs and go on about tanking and working in tandem with your partner. I got a few tricks of the trade I learned through my days as a mounted knight. “

Locke closed his eyes for a moment, remembering a small portion of training from his previous Lander mentor.

"You damn fool, you treat the horse as an awkward pair of legs!" The man slapped at Locke-shaw's legs, "These are no longer yours, your horse is you, and you him. You must learn each other as one to perfectly work together. If your going to ask for my help, at least make good of it!" Locke bowed his head to the lander, "I am sorry milord, I have disappointed you." Locke's eyes fell down in shame, but the lander simply lifted Locke's head up with a palm. "Hey, don't be hard on yourself, thats my job. you are actually faster than the rest i have taught, but your beating on this shire as if it is a tool?! Shameful this is, and you regard him as a friend! Do friends beat on each others sides until bruised, I should think not!" Locke took a quick bow, sweat dripping off his brow "I am sorry, milord. should we try again?" The lander held his gaze for a moment, "Once more, run through that thicket, swerve through the trees, jump the broken log, hit the targets, dodge the bags. the clearing is the end." Locke hid a smile of relief, comforting the horse for a minute by stroking the side of his neck, before saddling up and preparing to go out again...

I wonder if i will make the same mistake...

"You wont survive a forsaken moment holding a halberd like THAT on horseback!" yelled the lander as he deftly twisted the guard of his blade against Locke's halberd shaft, making it flip out of his hand and clattering on the grass. The lander shook his head "your grip is too shaky on the horse, you wield it with two hands, making you a shame to the ranks of cavalier! your swings are uneven and slow, and every time i fear your gonna lodge it in your horses rump or face!" Locke-Shaw and Kahlan breathed out their mouths heavily, as if deprived of oxygen for three minutes. Locke finally managed to gasp "What... Am i... messing up...?" The Lander moved his horse, Iron-Hoof, beside Kahlan. Iron-Hoof bended, picking up the halberd by teeth, handing it to the lander. He began to trot around, swinging and instructing him about grips. "This is going to be a long practice session."

After a good minute, he opened his eyes and smiled at Saskia, "while i cannot promise you ill be anywhere near accurate, i will try my best, milady." he pointed out, "but if we are training one on one at first, maybe we should scout for any close mobs? so we aren't interrupted, and so we know where to go train when we are done, milady?

Word Count: 1,029

[Saskia]

HP 100% | MP 100%

Guardian - Cavalier - Brewer

____________________________________________________

 Saskia took a moment to listen to all of his responses and questions. What struck her curiosity however was how he had spoke about his rich lineage at least from the real world, which had helped explain his mannerisms. He nodded several times in understanding. As her mother was of noble blood in the House of Hightower, Saskia began to remember fragments of her true identity. However, she was not really much of a noble among the others as her father was but a lowly Scottish fisherman. However, his charming qualities had won the heart of her mother and they soon had a child out o wedlock, thus producing the bumbling bastard, Hope McLaren, or Elizabeth Hightower. The name she was given at birth. However, she strayed away from it, preferring the name her father had desired to give her for her stage name when performing.



He also muttered details about not knowing about the existence of the Vylbrand Academy, which didn’t seem to shock Saskia as though they bolstered in numbers, their current guild hall was rather small, though they had been saving money to rebuild and rennovate a much larger location. She smiled gently in response to his questions and saved her answers for later.



He seemed to share a rich sympathy for animals as she did and had a strong conviction about how the companionship between man and horse should be. She appreciated how he had commended her on her choice of steed, which sparked a mutual curiosity she had in Kahlan.



As the man mentioned more details about his nobility and their pasfor poetry among other conniving deceitful actions, Saskia stroked her chin curiously. Though she was born a bastard child, both of her parents had married soon after her birth and had still been married to this day.



After she inquired about the oppurtunity to train him, he seemed to be lost in thought for a moment, and then responded in a rather humble manner.



It was then that Saskia decided to address the flow of his questions, offering her thoughts and feelings on the various subjects.



“Right. We might need to bolster your strength first. After your horse witnesses your own personal courage, it will be attracted to your fervor and build a fiery will of it’s own.”



Saskia nodded with a grin.



“As for the Vylbrand Academy, it makes sense that you might not have heard of it yet, our guild hall is rather small, yet populous. It’s because of this that we are going to be expanding and finding a much, much, larger site soon to host the Academy. Even as we speak, several cadets are undergoing bold expeditions and meetings to help master uncharted territories and find suitable locations.”



“At the very core, we are all about developing our skills and the is a bit of a professor and student relationship. We have a rising Alumni and the students are all getting to know each other rather well. Some of the more militant students, have even broken into fireteams and set off on their own missions when we get contracted through the city.”



“There are basically three divisions. Protectorates. Dedicated to doing missions around the city and protecting the livelihood of the people. Very militant in nature. “



“Next, we have the Magistrars, who are like the scholars and innovative branch of the family. They go on expeditions often and sometimes, if the journey is perilous enough they will enlist the aid of the Protectorates. They also build innovative technology to help restore the lands and bring us to a sense of prosperity.”



“Last, but not least are the Artisans, who are adept craftsman and masters of mercantilism. They are all about commerce and trade and making money through those means. They also are responsible for the mass production of materials that the Magistrars design. They also hold a lot of our elective branches, like musicians or theatrical thespians in the Drama Club. ”



Saskia smiled warmly as she shared that tidbit of information. She then gazed at Kahlan curiously with intrigue.



“I wonder what breed she is. She certainly looks beautiful...”



She then gazed back at him, remembered the details he mentioned about his nobility.



“Ah, yes, a noble, right? Well...I have a bit of a confession. I don’t really like confessing it, but I was born Elizabeth Hightower of the House of Hightower in Gloucestorshire. Not an exceedingly high name, but I suppose you could say they were up there. Well, on my mother’s side at least. My father was a fisherman from Scotland, so I guess you can’t really say he was the cream of the crop in nobility’s eyes. My mother was frowned upon because of it...”



Saskia shrugged her shoulders.



“But she groomed my father into a sharp businessman and they are still married to this day. So I guess they are well off...as for me, well I grew up in music and somewhere along the way I got caught up in a game with my sister and I never even touched a video game in my life...and well, now here I have been...wandering this world.”



Saskia seemed to have a light gleam of grief in her eye as she remembered how long it had been since she had even saw her family.



“Uhm...well...we better get a move on. I think I hear some young pittered boar in the distance.” Saskia muttered as she walked on foot, a slender hand grasped around the reins of her horse as she walked over towards the group of three [Young Pittered Boar]. The creatures were docile in nature.



“So...first thing’s first. Tell me what skills you have, and I’ll tell you how to best employ them. Chances are I already have them myself as I took up most of the Tier 1 Guardian skills.”

INVENTORY

EQUIPMENT: Stratford Arms Platemail (Level. 30), Stratford Arms Great Shield (level. 30) , Stratford Arms Long Spear (Level. 30)
ABILITIES USED:
Words: 980
Post Theme Song: Injustice





TAGS: solitude

template by caesar

[solitude]

“Right. We might need to bolster your strength first. After your horse witnesses your own personal courage, it will be attracted to your fervor and build a fiery will of it’s own.”
Locke-Shaw's gaze veered to Kahlan, who only nodded with a grunt. Does she understand this?...?

“As for the Vylbrand Academy, it makes sense that you might not have heard of it yet, our guild hall is rather small, yet populous. It’s because of this that we are going to be expanding and finding a much, much, larger site soon to host the Academy. Even as we speak, several cadets are undergoing bold expeditions and meetings to help master uncharted territories and find suitable locations.
At the very core, we are all about developing our skills and the is a bit of a professor and student relationship. We have a rising Alumni and the students are all getting to know each other rather well. Some of the more militant students, have even broken into fireteams and set off on their own missions when we get contracted through the city.”

Locke-Shaw's brow rose, This sounds like something i might get into.

Locke-Shaw listened attentively to the descriptions of the three groups. "So what i am hearing, tell me if im wrong, is that you are a group of instructors and students attempting to better each other whilst keep peace and exploring the land?" Locke thought for a moment, "So the protectorates, on top of being your little army to fight for your causes, also protects citizens and upholds a sense of civility, i would presume?"

He listened to her finish the other two, and said "This all seems to be a rather basic yet well thought construct. Protectorates are your little army, upholders of civility, and bodyguards. Magistrates are your inventive and explorative group, but is dependent on both protectorates and artisans for production and mass produce. Artisans are of their name-sake, crafters that also mass-produce unique products from the magistrates. They are also the bulk of what makes money flow into Vylbrand academy, and own side classes for more relaxed things like dancing or singing?"

Locke-Shaw grunted, "You would need all three groups. If one was to falter, you would crumble. Example, if you lacked the protectorates, your magistrates would be defenseless, and your guild would have no combat-force. If you had no magistrates, little exploration would happen, and nothing new would be presented by the guild, making them lack-luster. Without the artisans, you would have little chance to survive as they are, as i said, the bulk of your economy. Without them, magistrate's inventions might go to waste, meager revenue would enter and leave, possibly forcing you to shut down. Without the magistrates, artisans will make less money, making already known inventions, and the guild wouldnt be as known, because they wouldnt invent much nor find new places. Without protectorates, the magisters will have little chance to explore more dangerous locations. Am i right about this?"

Locke caught his breath, "Kahlan is a RaeBachh Shire, a breed in the game that has a rather resilient body and great endurance. That being said, they are used mainly for heavy labor for long hours. I am not sure if others use them for combat, but im experimenting with it. They are rather fast, if i may add. At this point i am still attempting to learn more about them, besides being an excellent companion..." Locke was shamed a little for knowing so little about Kahlan's breed.

Locke was pleasantly surprised hearing her noble heritage, me met so little of them ever since he got stuck in the game. Locke frowned, "Many would say your line has been tarnished due to your father. I hope that the other houses will still think your blood strong and not refer to you as impoverished nobles."

"My family is house Huxrulai in Wales. We have a rather high name, about nine centuries old, rich in history. My mother is Alexandria of Wales, and my father originated from Yorkshire, house Taernal. Our name is highly respected, our power unquestioned. Unfortunately..." Might as well say it  "My family is cunning, evil, and greedy. They have made my people suffer so that they may stack it in their royal treasury to never use. When i came of age, i challenged my father to a duel, slaying him and banishing my mother, stripping her of title. I am now the only one left in my house, my advisers constantly bugging me to marry so the line can continue. i must say, it is the most annoying thing ever." He smirked, "I enjoy being away from all the annoying politics."

Locke hopped on his horse and followed Saskia to the boars.
“So...first thing’s first. Tell me what skills you have, and I’ll tell you how to best employ them. Chances are I already have them myself as I took up most of the Tier 1 Guardian skills.”
Locke nodded, "I have Sword rain flurry, Resilience, and Cool defense." Locke then added, "I also have jousting from calvalry and heatsink from blacksmithing."

Word Count: 852

[Saskia]

HP 100% | MP 100%

Guardian - Cavalier - Brewer

____________________________________________________

 When Kahlan nodded with a puff of a grunt, Saskia would smile. It seemed as if the animal were nodding in agreement. Though Saskia held no skill with the [Tongue of Nature] ability, she had a natural affinity with horses as she raised some on her own at her father’s farm in Scotland. He had a beautiful shire named butters who had a blonde mane and brown and white spotted coat. She missed him dearly and began to wonder who might be taking care of him with her away.



That was probably one of the reasons she held Icarus very near and dear to her heart. He helped fill the void of her loss of Butters.



Saskia smiled as the man seemed intrigued by the Academy and maintained her humble modesty as he went on to explain how he had conceived the academy to be.



“Well, I think I couldn’t have explained it better at all, myself. That was the idea when Bailin and I founded the organization.“ She replied. “You are a very perceptive Dwarf!”



It was rather remarkable the way he seemed so very attentive. He also managed to decipher the guild’s Binomial nomenclature as he dissected each of the three houses of the guild.



She returned her subtle interests to the shire.



“Well, she certainly is beautiful. Her coat is very healthy as well. It’s nice to see you take such good care of her. Make sure to feed her well. I try to make sure Icarus eats at least five times a day to keep his strength up. Soon we may even be able to mount his own suit of armor on him, just like the knights of old.” She gleamed.



“Horses make excellent companions. They also allow us to store more gear than most players as we can carry a lot more without becoming over encumbered.” She added.



Her eyes would blink slowly as her face melted into a concerned expression. “You aren’t taking the piss, are you? You’re...actually serious? You had to...wow...my goodness. I’m sorry...”



He seemed a little worried for his spirit as the act of killing someone, especially a family member was a harsh thing to do. She suddenly felt a bit more uneasy, knowing that he had tking the life of a sentient being and casually admitted it. She try to find someway to deter the conversation to ease the tension in the atmosphere.



“Well, uhm, I know a good training sight. Let’s have a walk shall we...?” She smiled as she continued on foot.



“Now you mentioned three techniques. [Sword Rain Flurry], [Resilience], and [Cool Defense]. “



“An interesting base build. You take advantage of the extra layer of defense that the toggle skill provides while also relying on the slight regeneration effect of Resilience while in combat to help restore your wounds. You do this because you believe it can help shore up your weaknesses for not having a shield. You rely on the brute strength of that halberd you hold above your head and the fierce velocity of a fivefold attack. '

"It also makes for an excellent weapon while mounted and can traverse far distances. Speed and intensity are what you plan to use as your allies to subdue the common infantryman. However, you have neglected to take any techniques that may be of support to others. "

"Perhaps you believe that they can fend for themselves and that you will wait until the higher levels where the enemies start really dealing out a beating to ascertain those supportive abilities for yourself, correct?” Saskia inquired.



“Well, let me tell you something. This is not meant to scold you, but I want share something with you that you may not have known. The are several missions throughout this world that involve the safety of others. Namely, the people of the land, or ‘Landers’ as we call them. You see, unlike us, they do not have the luxury of respawning at a cathedral. Once they die, it’s over. "

And they are actually living sentient being now, just like you or me. They have aspirations, hopes, dreams. And as Guardians, we are duty bound to protect. That failure to take up a [Covering] skill or a [Heal] skill or even an aggro skill like [Taunting Shout] or [Anchor Howl] may mean the difference between life and death on the field."

"I’ve....watched too many mothers and children lose their husbands in battle due to the negligence of us adventurers..so unaware of our effects on this world...”



“It’s just something you should keep in mind for the future. I know you didn’t think about that when you thought it was just a game, but we must shatter that mindset. This is the reality we share now. Anything else is a false notion.”



After her spill, they would soon arrived to an open field where numerous [Possessed Stumps] lied scattered across the terrain.



“These are inanimate mobs. They look like orderinary stumps but they have a weird ability to whisper sinuous words, though they cannot harm you much. Especially since you strike from a distance. Becareful, it can raise it’s roots to strike, however. Take a few moments to work on your basic swing. Then we’ll move on to learning how to use [Sword Rain Flurry] without having to dial it up on the skills menu. In close range combat, you won’t always have time to scan over a menu list. ‘"

INVENTORY

EQUIPMENT: Stratford Arms Platemail (Level. 30), Stratford Arms Great Shield (level. 30) , Stratford Arms Long Spear (Level. 30)
ABILITIES USED:
Words: 910
Post Theme Song: Continuum





TAGS: solitude

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