|
Post by Richter Abend on Jan 20, 2011 20:01:33 GMT -6
OoC: This is a continuation of "The Lands of Ice and Snow"
Richter tugged on the reigns of his horse, bringing his steed to a halt, its feet clomping in the crunchy, icy snow as it did. The vapors from Richter's breath could be seen in short puffs blowing out of the cloak the commander was keeping wrapped around his neck as a scarf. The city of Edessa, with its great iron gates, loomed before of them like an imposing beast. In the distance could be seen the giant stone spire of Castle Edessa, rising above the terrain like a man made mountain. A banner could be seen flying at its tip. This city was vast, and its stone well preserved by the cold, though ice could be seen frozen in the cracks in the stone. Richter examined the city wistfully, a wave of nostalgia washing over him. If there was anything Ilians could be proud of, it was their architecture.
The great spires of Ilia were not built for extravagance, like the many castles of Lycia, but for power, like those of Bern, with their high stone walls and towers brimming with archers. In the old days, invading an Ilian stronghold without a full army at your back would have been suicide. Nowadays, with Ilia's power all over the map, notably tied up in occupying the once mighty Bern, Richter couldn't help but feel the land of his birth, the land of warriors and mercenaries, was not quite as mighty as it had once been. He would have to change that.
Turning his mount around, Richter held his fist up in the air, halting the march. His men were tired, exhausted even, but they were finally here. "Men, we have arrived!" the pink haired man shouted. "Take a break!" With that, a relieved sigh rippled through the crowd of soldiers as they set down their packs and weapons. Richter turned back to the walls. A sentry had crawled out of his tower to see why two full regiments of soldiers had arrived at Edessa's doorstep. The commander turned to his cousin. "I'll let you get us in."
|
|
|
Post by Clair Feldsky on Jan 21, 2011 0:58:00 GMT -6
Clair stopped a few steps back, at Richter's signal, looking up at the towers of Edessa. It had been a very long time since she was here. Back, during her basic training, and occasionally during her pegasus training, she'd visited. It seemed worlds away from the now though. Now, she was returning at the front of an army, riding with her friend, Now a Lance-Captain, and her Commander, an heir of a famous mercenary clan.
Corona shuffled his wings a bit, to either side as they stood. Marle, of course, held more weight here in Illia. Richter wasn't an Illian Commander, despite his interests in freeing the country from the bandits tormenting it. Clair settled in to wait, alongside Richter. She had her own business to attend to inside those walls.
|
|
Marle Daviau
General
The Lance of the North
One word of encouragement, One person believing in me, It's all I need to become stronger.
Posts: 436
Illia Fame: 2
Affinity: Ice
OoC Alias: Marle
|
Post by Marle Daviau on Jan 21, 2011 2:02:36 GMT -6
Marle didn't seem as impressed by Edessa as others may have been. She had been here before. Only three times, but she had. It may have been different for Clair and Richter, but she hadn't actually roamed around the world like they had. Ilia was really the only thing she knew. Looking back at that...that's really kind of sad. Marle looked at the horse to which Rode upon, and then up at him. Marle nodded, glad he was letting his men rest. It showed they really were no hostile. Of course, the banners Marle's men carried helped with that as well.
"I'll let you get us in."
Marle just chuckled up at him, jokingly in a sense, as she turned around and looked to a man carrying a banner. She went to him, and brought it forwards herself. The way she carried it seemed ceremoniously, as if part of a march, tucking it into her body, so the banner flew high above.
"I am Lance-Captain Marle Daviau! I had been sent on a mission of great importance from General Bashere. Open your gates and allow us entrance!"
The man who had been overlooking the doors from the wall disappeared. She ha heard him calling down the otherside, but it was hard to hear with the large obstacle in the way. It took awhile, but the doors eventually did open. It took time relaying messages afterall. Marle looked back at the others, and motioned them forwards. They were here now, no need for dallying. Marle wanted nothing more than to get this armor off, and get into a dress....or perhaps go to sleep...
|
|
|
Post by Richter Abend on Jan 21, 2011 16:58:14 GMT -6
Richter nudged his horse forward as the gates opened in the march into the city began. It had been quite the march to get here, and Richter was glad his men would get a break, at least for awhile. It might be a day or two before he got to speak with Edessa's high command, so his men would most likely be bumming around the city until then unless the higher ups had them all quarantined in a barracks for the time being or something like that. That was probably just Richter being Richter, however, as Ilian command should have no reason to be suspicious of him. Well, maybe a small reason...
The pink haired commander looked to Clair, how had just landed down next to him. "It'll probably be awhile before we're granted audience with the Edessan lords, so if you have any business to take care of before then, feel free to do so. I'm sure Marle and I can keep everything under control."
|
|
David Krisby
Mercenary
DEAD
"Where is MY path to redemption?"
Posts: 81
|
Post by David Krisby on Jan 21, 2011 17:13:51 GMT -6
"Ah, finally back in Edessa. Time to ditch this army and get to the pub." As soon as the gates had opened, David rushed inside and went straight for his usual hang-out.
It was a cozy pub, the kind that was in every city in Ilia, as David had experienced first hand. A very small family business, for the people who couldn't fight.
"Barkeep, get me a whiskey." The barkeep obliged, handing him the alcoholic beverage.
"You're back so soon, 'Dark Hunter'? What happened with the job?"
"Turns out I accidentally joined the wrong side after having one too many drinks. Luckily for me, it was over 200 people versus about six. That's that army out there. Who knows what they're doing here though." "An army? What kind of army?"
"Their color's are Ilian... some of them, at least. I don't remember what the other colors belong to."
"This could be a bad sign, right?"
David shrugged, returning to his drink, rather than amuse the barkeep any longer.
|
|
Mavick
Seer
Little Strategist
"The Darkness... It consumes me."
Posts: 208
Etruria Fame: -2
Sacae Fame: 1
Affinity: Dark
|
Post by Mavick on Jan 21, 2011 17:40:45 GMT -6
One could almost catch Mavick drooling as he gazed upon the city of Edessa. "Glorious." he said, little more than a stunned whisper. "Simply...glorious." So this was an Illian city. It was a fortress! Even greater than Ostia! "The firm architecture. The strategic location. The clear appearance of dominance. Why wasn't I born an Illian?" he wondered aloud to himself as he rode in behind Richter.
"It'll probably be awhile before we're granted audience with the Edessan lords, so if you have any business to take care of before then, feel free to do so. I'm sure Marle and I can keep everything under control."
Mavick snapped out of his trance, and quickly closed his mouth. "Oh, yes! I have an errand to run myself. By your leave, Commander." Yes, he still had to prepare Richter's new armor, and the weight of the Commander's gold in his pocket was a permanent reminder of that.
|
|
Marle Daviau
General
The Lance of the North
One word of encouragement, One person believing in me, It's all I need to become stronger.
Posts: 436
Illia Fame: 2
Affinity: Ice
OoC Alias: Marle
|
Post by Marle Daviau on Jan 21, 2011 18:46:29 GMT -6
Marle waited for the boy who had given her the flag to come walking inside. With him was her entire portion of the bulked army. Her leadership of them had ended, and they now needed to get back to respective postings and duties. She waited as they all passed, giving a warm, approving smile to them all. Not too bad, for mostly green soldiers who were battered into a decent shape by Arthis in his one week of work. Still, they needed more, so that was why they went back to their barracks. Some were from Araphen, but they would be looked after here.
With hands now free, Marle gave a look to the rest who were entering, and went to see if she could get a room for herself at an inn. For all intents and purposes, Marle disappeared from the group for the time being.
Now that she was alone, fatigue covered her face. More than that, her feet were utterly killing her. Those on horses took them for granted, marching that hard pace Richter had set was killer on the soldiers, and even her. Thank goodness it was done with. Removing her lances, she walked into the wide door of the inn, and was followed by an aide of her. Marle had hardly noticed the girl through the exhaustion she felt.
The Innkeeper had noticed her walk through the door, and came to give her welcome, but noticed her state.
"Ah, you be needing a room, then, wontcha?"
With a nod, Marle ran her hand through her hair. It was warm in here, but slightly empty. It was still during the day, and by night, the place may be filled, especially if there was a bard in town.
"Yes, that would be great.."
"Right his way, then."
The bulky fellow led her up the large wooden stairs to the second floor, which overshadowed the common room with a railing. This meant she would get little sleep, depending on how busy it was, atleast. These inns really weren't known for their sound proofing, but at a time like this, who cared?
The room was simple, once the innkeeper unlocked it. There was a bed, a chair and a small table off in the corner. It wasn't the largest, but it was what Marle had needed. Reaching into her pouch, she removed a few gold coins for the initial fee of staying a single night. Later, she would be able to determine if she had to stay here, or would have space cleared for her in the castle. She really should have gone to the castle with the envoy, but that could wait until later.
The door closed behind her, with her aide, and just gave her a tired smile.
"We're finally back, huh, Karen? About time too, I was about to fall asleep while standing."
The girl just giggled. Perhaps calling her a girl was a little too improper. There was probably only a year difference between the two, with Marle being the younger. Marle didn't waste time, and neither did her aide, as she stripped off the heavy armor, soon being left on just the clothes underneath. The armor was piled into the corner of the room, where it would be out of the way.
She looked so small without her armor. It was so bulky after all, and gave her a more intimidating stature, but she was rather small under it all. As she was removing her armor, Karen had been laying out a fresh pair of clothes. No Dresses. Shame. Just breaches.
With a grumble to the aide, she undressed in front of her, as embarrassing as it was, and got dressed in the new clothes. They fit well, and they looked go, but they were not dress. That was probably the one thing she missed when she left being a Pegasus rider. The skirts were cute, and she liked them.
Now Dressed, she rested back onto her bed, and gave Karen a weird look, wondering why she was still there.
"I'm going to rest for awhile, go have some fun in the city. We'll be busy again before we know it."
With a nod, Clair bowed out.
"Yes Ma'am."
With the doors closed, Marle rested for the time being. She was so tired, but for some reason, sleep didn't come as easily as she had hoped.
|
|
|
Post by Richter Abend on Jan 21, 2011 19:38:25 GMT -6
Richter dismounted his horse at the gate stable, handing a few gold coins to the stablehand, who eagerly accepted the larger than normal fee. The commander, however, gave the young man, no older than nineteen, a firm look as his feet touched the ground. "Just think of those coins as an incentive," said Richter, patting his horse on the nose. "Because he better be alright when I come back." The stablehand nodding quickly, gave the pink haired Ilian a sloppy, civilian salute. "Don't worry sir, your horse will be safe with me," he said. Richter nodded. "Good," he replied, leaving his horse in the boy's hands.
The commander then turned to watch the rest of their joint army file in and disperse. Marle handed command off to an Ilian official, who led her troops off to the nearest barracks, then headed off into the city, and Mavick had gone off to run a few errands. The last of Richter's men filed into the city, and a few calls atop the battlements could be heard as the great iron gates slowly began to close. The Etrurian rebels formed up around their commander, waiting to be instructed on what to do next. Richter had more than filled into his role as commander by now, the duties that came with it, and was prepared for what came next.
"Good work men!" started Richter, addressing his company. The men were attentive. "I imagine you have walked a long soldier's path to get to where you are now; most likely longer than I have known you. Whether you've been with me since Salvation Point or joined my troop in the time afterwards, we've gone through a lot of crap in our time together, and I thank you for every minute of it." There was a small 'hoorah' from some of the soldiers.
"I know most of you were and are still purebred Etrurians, and I can understand if you've ever had any hesitation following me, but I'd like to think I'm doing what is best for both of our countries." Richter smacked his fist into his other palm. "For the sake of Etruria's future and all of Elibe, I request your assistance further. No matter what happens up in that castle, you will always be the men that got me to where I am now." More of the men cheered this time, a few thrusting their fists into the air. "We've come so far, now is not the time to give up!" More cheers. "So take a break men, enjoy your time in the city before we move out to fight once again! You've earned it!" A loud roar erupted from Richter's men as they cheered, high-fiving and bumping into each other as they rushed into the city. Most would probably be rushing for the nearest bar, but he imagined many of his of soldiers just wanted a warm meal and some sleep, and Richter could more than understand that.
The commander couldn't help but grin as his soldiers went off to do whatever it was they were going to do. He felt a sort of bond with them, a bond he had never felt with any of his mercenary bands. He shrugged. Probably just came from almost getting yourselves killed over and over again. Richter yawned. He'd been staying up late every night to keep watch on the camp, and definitely needed some sleep.
|
|
|
Post by Clair Feldsky on Jan 21, 2011 19:51:56 GMT -6
Clair was relieved when the gates opened. Marle really had moved up in the world since they'd parted ways, all those years ago.
"It'll probably be awhile before we're granted audience with the Edessan lords, so if you have any business to take care of before then, feel free to do so. I'm sure Marle and I can keep everything under control."
Clair thought of all the things she could go off and do. Her parents may, or may not be stationed here. She'd definitely need to find that out, and go see them if they were here.
Clair was among the soldiers present when Richter gave his inspirational speech, having stabled Corona herself, and stored his tack nearby. Afterwards, she approached "Commander, there's something I'd like to talk to you about, but maybe it should wait until we've gotten settled in a bit. Perhaps we could meet someplace in an hour or so."
|
|
|
Post by Valcrist on Jan 21, 2011 20:00:20 GMT -6
Stupid Ilia and your stupid cold with your stupid expensive inns... Standing just outside the doorway of one of Edessa's many fine inns, was a boy with tan skin and blond hair huddled up into his self wearing a green coat. The snow fell on his hair in a most annoying way, and he constantly shook his head trying to get it off. It was cold... so cold... How could anyone live in such a place? But sure enough people were walking around and not even noticing that their blood was freezing inside their own bodies.
Oh what Val would give for the blistering heat of his home, as opposed to this paralyzing cold. He shuddered as a gust of wind pierced right through his coat and brought the freezing cold right to his bones themselves. He was afraid he'd turn into an icicle at this rate.
Next to Valcrist was his bag, sitting in the snow. He slowly bent down and picked up his sketchbook, gingerly as if his arms will snap off if he went too fast. No one today... figures. Leaning up against the wall was a stiff piece of cardboard, and on it was some writing.
Face sketches - 10 gold Body sketches - 25 gold Weapon or Armor designs - 50 gold
No one was interested though, no one even gave him a second glance. Ugh, this was a bad idea that wasn't going to get him any money at all. He'll probably be thrown out soon, like he was at that other inn for 'distubing customers' he'd BE a customer if he just had some gold!
|
|
|
Post by Richter Abend on Jan 21, 2011 20:04:10 GMT -6
A soldier, followed by a few others, came up to him as he reflected on what he was going to do for the night.
"Sir," he said, saluting. Richter saluted back. It was Johannes, one of Richter's sergeants back at Salvation Point. A more than capable archer if Richter could remember correctly, and a darn fine cook. He was carrying some object, bundled in leather.
"Johannes," replied the commander. "What is it?" "Just a gift, sir," he said, holding the bundle out in front of him for his commander to take. Richter nodded and grabbed the gift, unwrapping it. "Myself and a couple of the men made this for you. It's not much, what with the supplies we've had, but we wanted to thank you for leading us here. If it wasn't for you, we'd all probably be dead by now." Richter looked up from the package, still unwrapping it.
"It's my fault you're all rebels of the state in the first place, Johannes," replied the pink haired Ilian. Johannes nodded. "That may be true, sir, but nevertheless, you're the best commander any of us have had, even if you were just a traitorous Ilian mercenary," replied the sergeant, a small grin on his face. Richter gave him a slightly reproachful look and the grin disappeared. "Sorry, sir, I meant no offense." The Ilian shook his head, looking down to the package, which he had just finished unwrapping, and chuckled to himself.
"It's fine, you're right anyways." Richter pulled the gift out of its crude leather wrappings and held it up. It was black on one side and orange on the other. The orange side looked like it had been dyed. A cloak. Or was it a cape? As if reading Richter's mind, Johannes piped up. "It's a cape, sir," he spoke. The commander nodded. "You sew?" he asked, a slight joking tone in his voice. Johannes shook his head. "No, no, that would be Private Michaels, sir. He did most of the actual sewing work," replied Johannes, motioning to one of the soldiers behind him. Private Michaels nodded. "Sir." Richter nodded back. "Well Private Michaels, Sergeant Johannes, everyone else," spoke Richter. "Thanks for the gift." He wasn't too good with this stuff. The soldiers saluted. "Thank you commander," spoke Private Michaels, and the soldiers turned away and headed off into the city.
As Richter tossed the cape around his shoulders, he was approached by Clair. Apparently she had nowhere to go for the moment.
"Commander, there's something I'd like to talk to you about, but maybe it should wait until we've gotten settled in a bit. Perhaps we could meet someplace in an hour or so."
"For once I'm not busy," replied the commander, turning to look Feldsky in the eye. "We can talk now if you'd like, that is unless you really want to wait."
|
|
|
Post by Clair Feldsky on Jan 21, 2011 20:52:05 GMT -6
"Well, things don't get done by waiting... so...."
Clair paused, because it was a little embarrassing. Best just to get it over with.
"Remember, back when I joined?..." She sighed quietly. She didn't want to admit it, but she was nervous about seeing the Illians higher ups again. "You may or may not know that pegasus knights are expected to go out and gain experience fighting, before we are officially recognized as pegasus knights. As far as Illia is concerned, I'm still nothing more than a squire."
"Something like this could shape how I'm perceived for the rest of my career. If you could throw in a good word for me...."
Clair trailed off. She had no doubt about them giving her the rank of pegasus knight, but she wanted to go for as much as she could. It was her responsibility to her parents, to strive for complete success
|
|
|
Post by Cyrus on Jan 21, 2011 21:48:50 GMT -6
Cyrus stood there frosen,not by the cold weather,but by the look of the mighty Eddessa.Cyrus never got out far away and it was is first time seeing such a impressive stone wall.The rookie quickly strolled around the city when Marle's men were dismiss,Cyrus walked slowly,looking at all the things he could see in this city fortress,everythings feels like new, even thought they were just ordinary shops. Cyrus day dreamed when he smelled the delicious pastrys in of a bakery,the sweet smell made Cyrus think back when he was still at his home doing nothing much of his day except relax and eating pastry from time to time. He din't notice he was still walking and stumble on something on the ground en fell off face first in front of a young blond haired man.
"Yaouch,this is not my day..."
|
|
|
Post by Valcrist on Jan 21, 2011 22:08:29 GMT -6
Valcrist's eyes drifted slowly down as a man collapsed at his feet. Oddly enough, this wasn't a very uncommon thing. There seemed to be a bump in the road right near where he stood that causes a lot of tripping if people weren't paying attention. This was probably the third person to fall, the other two being drunk. He was freaked the first time, worried the second time, this time he was just sorta annoyed. Still, he couldn't fight the little flutters of worry he felt.
Bending down to one knee, he looked at the man. "Are you alright sir?"
|
|
|
Post by Cyrus on Jan 21, 2011 22:49:02 GMT -6
Cyrus tumbs up from the floor,sweet pastrys din't taste quite like solid cold floor,wipeing is face off,Cyrus feel awkward has he goes up on his feet and Successively bow to Elias.
" Oh please pardon me,i hoped i din't cause much you of trouble for worrying of me,accept my most sincer apologies."
When finnally stop bowing,Cyrus looked at the man facing him,obviously he wasn't Illian.
"And who might you be...Oh wait,where are my manners? There propably still on the floor from my fall.I proper manned man like me sould give is name first." Cyrus claired is throat " I am Cyrus Greyfield,proud member of the Ilian army under the command of captain Marle,please to meet you..." While poorly military saluting Valcrist.
|
|