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Post by Admin: Otto on Jan 21, 2023 23:47:48 GMT -5
The Stablemen "The Stablemen ride to uphold the sanctity of the royal constitution and protect the peace for the citizens of Charon under the cover of anonymity. May the crown long reign."
Throughout the lands of Charon, the Stablemen work beneath the covers of their everyday jobs. Stablemen, horse trainers, and wagon drivers are only among the few; but those common folk of Charon who respect the crown and the royal constitution as the rightful rulers of their lands and seek to protect the reign of the royal family will find their place among the Stablemen.
Watchful eyes and listening ears will stay mindful of those who oppose the crown; those rebels, those threats, those hooligans who seek to dethrone the royal constitution; will be stopped before they ever begin. Let them take you for granted, let them take your work as child’s play, for it gives the Stablemen the upper hand.
Do not let them know we are watching. Do not let them know we are listening. Do not let them know what we know.
Through the Jewels of the Crown, the Stablemen will guide one another to the traitors who linger in the filthy gutters of their homes and cities. Beneath the crown of the royal family, the Stablemen are united; and for as long as the institution stands, we shall remain as such.
Brothers, sisters, and siblings —
May the crown long reign.
THE GOLDEN GELDING in SOL CITY
Welcome to the Golden Gelding!
Nestled snugly in the midst of the Gold Port, the Golden Gelding is a humble but busy inn which caters to the many arriving and departing citizens, merchants, and sailors who use the port. This makes the Golden Gelding quite a busy hub for traffic; owned by Miss Maylene Weathers, a bubbly halfling woman with a penchant for being quite the chatterbox. The Golden Gelding is well known for having good ale and hearty food, but is often busy around-the-clock. OWNERSHIP Capitol Landing District Miss Maylene Weathers Owner of the Golden Gelding Gender | Age | Race | Female | 51 | Halfling |
Appearance | A middle-aged halfling who presents herself with the attire and stance of a noblewoman; Maylene has fiery red hair and a pale, blushed skin-tone dotted with light freckles. She has visible smile lines, soft facial features, and eyes which one might describe as "drowsy"— making her a rather friendly-looking, motherly, and easy-to-approach woman.
Maylene tends to prefer clothing that is just a bit too big for her; soft woolen sweaters, and undershirts with draping sleeves are some of her most common to be seen in. She pairs these with high-top collars, corsets, and fine brooches and accessories.
She may often braid her hair back, or let it fall braided in a couple of pigtails.
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Personality | A bubbly halfling woman with a reputation for being quite the chatterbox. Maylene is the kind of barkeep that any adventurer would want to keep in their back pocket, as she always seems to have the tea on anyone and everyone who might matter.
Maylene has a motherly attitude, treating her patrons with the kind of friendly disposition that one would expect from a family reunion, regardless of how many times she's seen them in her establishment. She can often be found mingling with the patrons, and always seems to know everything about those who've entered her inn; she goes by "Miss Maylene" more often than not: an affectionate nickname given to her by regulars over time.
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Context | Administrative Operative
There's absolutely nothing sketchy about the Golden Gelding.
Miss Maylene Weathers runs her business in a genuine and straight-forward manner. The Golden Gelding's location at the Gold Port makes it a hot-spot for travelers coming to, or heading out of, Sol City. With so many travelers coming in and out from so many different locations, Miss Maylene and her company are able to glean rebel information about not only Sol City, but from other locations across Charon.
After the passing of Mister Marcus Weathers, she has handed the reigns of "Weather's Wagons"— a transporation business started by her husband to glean rebel information from the heart of Sol City— over to her daughter, Valerie, which plays an important role in their gathering of information of all kinds.
Miss Maylene and her immediate operatives should be informed of any rebel operations located within the heart of Sol City.
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OPERATIVES IN HEADQUARTERS
Capitol Landing District Valerie Weathers Director of Weather's Wagons
Gender | Age | Race | Female | 24
| Half-Human, Half-Halfling
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Appearance | A young half-human woman with short shoulder-length mahogany hair that curls inwards towards her softened facial features. Like her mother, Valerie has the same pale, blushed skin spattered with light freckles. She has a slender, athletic frame and bright green eyes.
Unlike her mother's taste for nobility, Valerie tends to wear humbler clothing styles: one of her favourite combinations being dark brown slack overalls and a cream undershirt paired with a brown flat-cap.
Valerie often keeps her hair loose, allowing it to fall around her face, but occasionally tucks it beneath her cap.
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Personality | A sparky young woman with positivity, boisterousness, and cheer. Valerie, unlike her mother, is loud and proud; unafraid to cause, or start, a raucous. She is a go-getter and a workaholic; and although Valerie is rarely seen around the Golden Gelding, she will frequently be found in the Golden Gelding's Stable, working with the horses or keeping track of incoming and outgoing drivers and wagons.
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Context | Operational Operative
Valerie took over Weather's Wagons from her father, Marcus Weathers, after his early death. In the same way that her mother runs the Golden Gelding, Valerie runs Weather's Wagons in a genuine and straight-forward manner.
Located across from the Golden Gelding, the Golden Gelding's Stables see almost as much business as the Golden Gelding does. Most of the rebel information which is gleaned in Sol City tends to come from her front. Many a quiet or drunken meeting takes place, or has taken place, within the private wagons of Valerie's company— and many a rebel identity, plan, or organization has been gleaned from those meetings by the driver's who front the business.
Valerie works recruitment and training on top of her usual operations.
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Darthan Martuk
Bartender at the Golden Gelding
Gender | Age | Race | Male | 258
| Dwarf
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Appearance | A senior dwarf who stands at about 4' 8". Darthan has short, wavy silver hair and a well-trimmed and maintained beard. He keeps his beard braided into two segments which connect close to the end and tie off with a series of silver rings. His skin-tone is a cool olive, and he has a rather stout, muscular body-type.
He shows the scars and wrinkles that one naturally obtains throughout the course of their lives. The most prominent of which being a dark scar that cuts across the bridge of his nose beneath small silver spectacles and slices through the thick of his bushy brows.
Darthan often wears simple, layered clothing.
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Personality | Darthan is a quiet man who does not speak verbally. A gentleman through and through, Darthan is an attentive old man who, although a bit odd to see behind the bar at his age, proves to be a talented mixologist. He most often communicates through writing, but will use sign language when his patrons know it; he is a great listener, and those who come to the Golden Gelding often will know that Darthan is an open book.
Visually expressive despite his quiet nature, Darthan can often be seen as a comforting, grandfatherly figure; however, once a mercenary, Darthan also serves as the muscle of the Golden Gelding— escorting troublemakers from its premises when needed.
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Context | Operational Operative
As the barkeeper and mixologist of the Golden Gelding, the amounts of stories which Darthan hears from patrons are countless and many. Most are insignificant, but some are greatly significant to the Stablemen's purpose; and those are the stories which Darthan waits patiently to hear.
Darthan was once a mercenary, and has many stories to tell to those who have the patience— which, in his line of work, tends to be less than those who wish to tell their own. |
Alistar Avenon
Head Chauffeur at Weather's Wagons
Appearance | A middle-aged, human man who stands at about 5' 9". He has dark grey hair, speckled white with the beginnings of age, and deep shadows beneath his hazel eyes. Alistar typically wears the Weather's Wagon's uniform on his working days— a cream undershirt, bowtie, flat cap, and dark brown slacks.
He wears a bronze badge on the right side of his chest to signify his affiliation with the company, and carries a redwood cane in his right hand due to a past leg injury. He keeps a five o' clock shadow, and has a visible scar at the junction of his jawline.
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Personality | A scruffy man with a pliable attitude; Alistar seems much like a common man working a common job, and acts it. Bitter, bored, and jaded, he is the average, displeased working man in every way, shape, and form.
While not necessarily rude, Alistar can come off as abrasive and cold, choosing not to engage with the patrons past the casual banters that so often come with his position. He tends to be very straightforward, and doesn't hold back on his opinions... if you ask.
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Context | Operational Operative
One of the many chauffeurs for Weather's Wagons. Alistar was once a swordsman and instructor on Halberd's Tip before being let go after a training injury which cost him the full mobility of his right leg.
While somewhat bitter with his early bad lot in life, Alistar continues to serve the crown through his alliance with the Stablemen. His abrasive nature tends to cause individuals to simply ignore his presence, and go about with their own business; he has the highest turnover rate on Sol City.
Alistar works with Valerie on recruitment and training of Sol City's Stablemen.
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Naexi Gildove
Server at the Golden Gelding
Gender | Age | Race | Female | 28
| Tiefling
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Appearance | A young tiefling woman who stands at around 5' 7". She has short-cropped silver hair, pale blue skin, and lavender eyes. Naexi often wears a loose white blouse which falls off her shoulders, paired with a dark brown corset bound by cream ribbons. She wears a pair of layered skirts: one a shorter dark purple, and one a longer, ruffled and bold gold. She wears dark brown boots, and has a tail tipped with indigo fur; her horns are small, and curl above her head like the crest of a wave.
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Personality | A friendly young woman; bubbly, and full of jokes and humor, Naexi is a popular server at the Golden Gelding if only due to her approachable attitude and natural charisma. She is a multi-tasker, and assists Maylene in the busy hustle and bustle that comes with the location of the Golden Gelding.
She is a talented musician who accepts song requests from the patrons during the late hours of the evening, which she plays upon the harp; and, she appears to have a clear fondness for Maylene's daughter, Valerie.
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Context | Communications Operative
One of the servers for the Golden Gelding; Naexi has been working for the Golden Gelding for some years, now. She was once a traveling bard, but seems to have settled down in Sol City. She is a popular face amongst patrons due to her friendly, charismatic attitude and talent with the arts; and she tends to play songs upon their request on the harp located in one corner of the Golden Gelding.
Her charming personality often helps her wiggle into conversations and keep customers at ease.
Once a student at the Mage's Academy in the past, Naexi now assists Maylene with arcane details and interpretation of messages coming through from local Stablemen.
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THE FAIR FILLY in ECLIPSE CITY
Welcome to the Fair Filly!
Among potted plants featuring the natural fauna of the Moonglade, sitting near the Moonlit Docks in Eclipse City, stands the Fair Filly. Well-known for their unique, fun, and exotic liquors; paired with the stunning view of their docks; and the ease of travel to the market district from the tavern; the Fair Filly finds itself busy at most hours of the day through evening. Locals and travelers alike tend to stop by the Fair Filly for a drink, song, or game of cards— and of course, all are welcome through their doors if you've got the coin.
OWNERSHIP Moonglade District Estel Arnoire
Owner & Bartender of the Fair Filly Gender | Age | Race | Genderfluid
| Unknown
| Wood Elf
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Appearance | A young wood-elf who appears the pinnacle of elegance; Estel is a wood elf with a warm, chestnut skin-tone, and dark brown hair that naturally falls to their mid-back in a cascade of tight ringlets. Estel is rarely seen without heavy makeup within their establishment— they favor bright and bold eyeliners and eyeshadows— to compliment their wardrobe, which they always assure is on the cutting-edge of Moonglade fashion.
They tend to favor extravagant combinations in long skirts, dresses, flared slacks, corsets, and loose shirts which billow eloquently when they move.
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Personality | Estel is a charming individual; the kind which most of their patrons either love, hate, or envy— no in-betweens. They are a talented mixologist and a passionate liquor enthusiast, leading them to spare absolutely no expense on ordering the most top-of-the-line liquors and alcohols for their establishment.
Although haughty, Estel is a genuine individual with a passion for what they do— and although they have a flare for showsmanship, that passion shows in their efforts to keep the Fair Filly on strong legs.
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Context | Administrative Operative
Estel began the Fair Filly over ten years ago, in the midst of the market district of Eclipse City; their establishment started small, but flourished with time. Their reputation as an expensive, but quality inn proceeds them— although, there are a few curious rumors flitting about.
Despite the Fair Filly's presumed aim towards the noble class, those with more humble beginnings can find their place among them for a pleasant evening out... so long as they have the right kind of gossip to serve as payment for their fun, games, and pleasantries.
Estel Arnoire and their immediate operatives should be informed of any rebel operations located within the Moonglade.
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OPERATIVES IN HEADQUARTERS Moonglade District Dorein Silkwing
Musician at the Fair Filly
Gender | Age | Race | Female
| 21
| Aviankin
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Appearance | A peacock who stands at roughly 5' 8"; Dorein has a slender body frame and stark opalescent white feathers, which paints her a stunning picture as she sings for the crowds of patrons alongside her accompaniment. Dorein's eyes are a pale pink, and she favors bright-colored and bold gowns to perform in, which compliments her otherwise monochrome look and her train of gorgeous, white tail feathers.
She wears colorful, thick eyeliner and smudged eyeshadows to compliment her stage appearance.
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Personality | A coquettish and charming young woman; Dorein holds herself as a diva on stage with a sort of untouchable mystique... but in reality, she is a bit more soft spoken. Dorein and Estel appear to be close friends; and Dorein may often be found helping behind the bar in some of the later hours of the evenings, mingling sheepishly with the patrons.
She has a sort of gentle charm about her when she's off stage and a humble persona despite the glam and the glitz.
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Context | Communications Operative
Three days out of the week, patrons will find Dorein Silkwing at her place on stage, ready to serenade the crowd. She was traditionally trained at the Eclipse City College of Music in Moonglade, and is able to play the lute and harp in addition to being a talented vocalist.
Although originally not very well known, Dorein seems to be making her big break in the walls of the Fair Filly, and is well-loved by patrons for her beauty, voice, and charisma.
The other four days of the week, Dorein spends her time working with Estel to translate messages coming in from the stablemen in the Moonglade, and sending out follow-up investigations when necessary.
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Ashe Birchrun
Bookkeeper at the Fair Filly
Appearance | A satyr man with pale skin, blue-grey eyes, and freckles speckled across his sharp features. Ashe is a well-defined young man with an athletic build and a short, but well-kempt beard. His wavy brunette hair falls disheveled at a side part, and is shaved at a gradient on the other side; he wears a number of colorful piercings on his ears.
A pair of round spectacles just a little too big for his face rests on the bridge of his nose. The coat of his goat-half is a similar shade of brunette to his hair, with white stockings above his cloven hooves. He tends to favor long-sleeved blouses, paired with patterned vests, and forgoes pants altogether.
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Personality | Ashe is a well-tempered young man who keeps track of the books, along with the comings and goings of the overnight patrons for the Fair Filly; he's approachable, friendly, and a bit clumsy if nothing else.
Ashe is not good with the drinks, nor is he great at socializing with the patrons. He often can be overlooked by other staff and patron alike— although, he is always around when he's needed— and more than willing to offer a helping hand, deliver a drink or meal, or show a patron off to their room.
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Context | Operational Operative
While Ashe keeps the books for the Fair Filly, his talents come in his ability to blend into the crowd— making him invisible in the strangest kind of way. When he's not keeping himself busy with assisting Estel with serving drinks, or escorting patrons around the establishment, one might notice that he's rather hard to find.
Likely, because he's keeping an ear and eye out for any pertinent information as it walks through the door. His curious ability to blend in allows him to mingle without suspicion amongst the tables of the Fair Filly, and proves a great asset for the Stablemen.
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Sethe Caldor
Server at the Fair Filly
Gender | Age | Race | Non-Binary | 25
| Half-Elf |
Appearance | A young half-elf with warm chestnut skin tones, amber eyes, and a spattering of freckles which are most noticeable across their face, ears, and shoulders. They have dark brown, wavy hair which falls to their mid-back, and is most often braided towards the end— with loose bangs that fall about their oval face.
Their ears are pointed slightly, denoting their half-elf heritage; and they wear dangling, golden chain jewelry upon them. They tend to prefer darker or cooler colors and layers in contrast to the bold brightness of the Fair Filly's interior, with preference for sleeveless tunics and black slacks in-line just enough with the style of the Fair Filly's dress code for their outfit to only be confusing for the drunkest of patrons.
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Personality | An off-standish and unreliable young individual; out of the cast and crew who works the Fair Filly, Sethe is the most distant, difficult, and hardest to connect with. They seem to have a bit of a mean-streak, and aren't particularly pleased with their position as a server; and they certainly act it.
They proudly go on record as the staff member with the most complaints from patrons, and often slack off during their shifts, leaving Ashe to cover for them when they do.
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Context | Operational Operative.
A student from the Magic Academy.
Sethe is a talented magic user and a druid who has recently joined the staff at the Fair Filly, bringing along their familiar who assists them in the process of gathering information. While Sethe is not the most approachable, nor the most talkative of the Fair Filly's staff, their ability to use their familiar as a second source of information paired with their ability to speak to animals, makes them a valuable resource to the Fair Filly's headquarters.
Sethe has a high report count as a result, despite their many complaints as a serving staff for the Fair Filly's front.
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Sasha aka ("Mittens")
In-House "Pet" at the Fair Filly
Gender | Age | Race | Female | N/A
| Cat |
Appearance | A sleek, short-furred black tuxedo cat with white mittens, fondly named as such by the many patrons of the Fair Filly. Her eyes are large and amber in color, and her nose and paw pads are a soft pink.
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Personality | A lazy, but affectionate cat who likes to bumble around the Fair Filly, rubbing against patron's legs and snoozing in sunny windows until nightfall. She remains fairly close to Sethe when she's not meandering about the building, or lazing about near the patrons.
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Context | Operational Operative
"Mittens", or Sasha, is Sethe's familiar; but she acts well as any normal feline might, and actually enjoys the attention to an extent. Sasha can be found perusing about the Fair Filly, lapping up dropped foods, or soaking up attention from more sober individuals; she also has a curious tendency to choose snoozing spots around interesting tables, in order to listen in on conversation to take back to Sethe.
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THE WARM FOOD REST HORSE PLACE in LILICORS VILLAGE
Welcome to the Warm Food Rest Horse Place!
When one finds the Safe Dry Sleep Eat Spot to be full or crowded; they might drift instead to the Warm Food Rest Horse Place. Located towards the back of Lilicors Village, the Warm Food Rest Horse Place doesn't see much action from general travelers— but does see a lot of traffic from less savory, mercenary sorts who are looking for a quiet place to stay or conduct business. The owner, Lucky, seems quite fond of shine and gossip— so for the right amount of coin, or the right information— he'll probably look the other way.
OWNERSHIP Marsh Flats District "Lucky" Horseshoe Owner of the Warm Food Rest Horse Place Gender | Age | Race | Male | 12
| Geckoling |
Appearance | Lucky is a short geckoling who stands at about 4' 2". His scales are an off-green hue, his eyes are a bright yellow, and he has a number of scars and injuries embedded deep into his skin— but the most noticeable injury is his once-broken jaw, which has given him a prominent under-bite and a short blunted snout. Lucky prefers to wear a simple undershirt and slacks, and carries around a pocket knife for self defense.
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Personality | A somewhat obnoxious, happy-go-lucky kind of fellow who screams, speaks in third person, and shouts at his customers pretty frequently. Absolutely no one has any idea how Lucky got the money to build his inn, but he does a surprisingly good job of keeping up with it given how many times you'll catch him tripping over his own tail throughout the evening.
Clumsy, silly, and begrudging— he seems to have some kind of grudge towards Tiny Two Toes of the Safe Dry Sleep Eat Spot, who he says took his idea of starting an inn. |
Context | Administrative Operative
"Lucky" Horseshoe, who goes simply by Lucky, says he earned his name after getting molly-whopped by the kick of an angry horse through the window of an abandoned building in the middle of Lilicors Village, which would later become the Warm Food Rest Horse Place.
Lucky is a weird fellow, but he's smart; his over-eager, klutzy persona is simply that— a persona. He finds that people let down their guard more easily when they find him to be incompetent, and so he rolls with it. In reality, Lucky is a calm and subtle type— with the slow roll of business, he is easily able to organize his district, and target individuals of interest on his off days.
Lucky has multiple connections and Field Operatives located throughout Lilicors Village to assist him in the crown's efforts, and he has the best follow-up and arrest record out of all the Stablemen's Main Branches.
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OPERATIVES IN HEADQUARTERS
Marsh Flats District Daene Solgen
Bartender at the Warm Food Rest Horse Place
Gender | Age | Race | Male | 31
| Half-Orc |
Appearance | A handsome half-orc man who stands at roughly 5'11"; his skin is a hue of sage green, and his facial features are sharp with a pronounced jaw-line and cheekbones. His hair is a dark brown and kept short up top, but shorter at the sides.
His eyes are a soft hazel, and he often wears a cream-colored undershirt beneath a dark brown vest, and brown slacks— despite the Warm Food Rest Horse Place's lack of any kind of cohesive uniform.
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Personality | Full of sheepish smiles and gentle laughs, Daene is a charming young man who seems content to simply work behind the bar, despite the owner's eccentricity.
When people are tired of dealing with Lucky, Daene is usually the first person they'll go to for help— and he's usually more than happy to do offer it. He'll go out of his way to ensure that the few patrons the Warm Food Rest Horse Place receives are actually comfortable in their stay, and stay out of trouble with the less polite patrons that Lucky lets hang around.
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Context |
Operational Operative
A half-orc who originally hails from the Car'mign tribe; Daene grew up in the Marsh Flats with his orcish mother, and took up his job at the Warm Food Rest Horse Place only within the last few years. He often handles the patrons when they're tired of dealing with Lucky and tends to be of a gentler sort— charming patrons into speaking— and then listening quietly to their conversations while he quietly goes about his business.
Daene also tends to be the muscle in the Warm Food Rest Horse Place when things get a little too out of hand, and assists Lucky in sending out investigations into rebel rumors in the Marsh Flats.
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Tilly Marshpaw
Server at the Warm Food Rest Horse Place
Gender | Age | Race | Female | 12 | Tortoiseshell Catfolk
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Appearance | A short and plump tortoise-shell patterned catfolk; Tilly stands at about 3' 7" and has twin tails. She has big green eyes, and a grey and pink patterned nose. Tilly often wears layered robes which are a tad too big for her small frame, and wears a large hat which is actually just a big lily pad upon further inspection.
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Personality | Tilly is happy to help serve at the Warm Food Rest Horse Place and doesn't particularly mind that business is often so slow,since it gives her time to nap behind the bar. Tilly is laid-back and seemingly has no sense of urgency during work hours.
She is generally a delight to speak with casually; she's very cheerful and happy, but a bit clumsy in her work. Tilly frequently gets orders incorrect... but is very enthusiastic about serving them, anyways.
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Context |
Operational Operative
A life-long friend of Lucky, Tilly is a cat-folk who can make herself disappear in the blink of an eye; this makes her a critical informant when it comes to the less savory business dealings that Lucky allows to happen quietly beneath the roof of the Warm Food Rest Horse Place— ensuring that there is always an eye open to listen in on the quiet dealings of rebels and criminals alike.
While some information is not impertinent to the Stablemen's motives, others are— which allows the Stablemen to take their next actions with confidence.
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Clythe
Bookkeeper at the Warm Food Rest Horse Place
Gender | Age | Race | Male
| 21 | Salamander
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Appearance | A tall blue lizardfolk of sorts; Clythe is a sleepy-looking fellow who stands at about 5' 11", and has a hilariously long torso. His head is large and round; his drowsy eyes are a bright blue; and are further magnified by the massive glasses he wears. Clythe best resembles a salamander spotted with black dots, no visible scaling on his person, and rounded features.
Clythe wears an absurd amount of layers in all sorts of colors, making him look a bit like a tall rainbow of curtains.
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Personality | Clumsy, nervous, but a charming little fellow; Clythe really seems to want the best for the Warm Food Rest Horse Place.
Between Lucky's usual behavior and the lack of business they actually receive, this is much easier said than done. Clythe can often be found stressing to Daene behind the bar, and occasionally sneaks a drink to calm his nerves. He is a fairly genuine individual, however, and is happy to help around when he can... to varying degrees of success.
Despite it all, he is quite clever, and does his best to help Lucky keep the books. |
Context |
Communications Operative
Clythe, despite all of his nerves and his clumsiness, is a powerful magic user; and while he is arguably terrible at most things, he is very good at the arcane. This experience allows him to pretty effortlessly interpret and decode messages coming in from various parts of the Marsh Glade.
When the Warm Food Rest Horse Place actually has business, Clythe makes himself visible every now and then— but otherwise, he dips in and out, making himself busy with Stableman affairs, and essentially running the show solo.
Clythe also assists Lucky with training and recruiting new operatives.
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Yifa
Regular at the Warm Food Rest Horse Place
Gender | Age | Race | Non-Binary | 38
| Hobgoblin |
Appearance | A tall hobgoblin with a pale steel-blue skin tone and amber eyes; they stand at about 6' 2", and have long black hair which they draw back into a bun. Their facial features are sharp, and consistently seem to be drawn back into a scowl.
All in all, a rather intimidating individual: Yifa appears a mercenary or a raider by all accounts— sporting their lifetime's worth of scars— and wearing padded leather armor, with a short sword at their side whenever they show up unannounced to the Warm Food Rest Horse Place.
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Personality | Unpleasant, hostile, and suspicious to say the least. Yifa is an unapproachable sort; they're full of sly grins and manipulative phrases to suck any innocent soul who comes their way into an unexpected game of gambling or chance.
Intimidating and not-at-all friendly, Yifa otherwise keeps to themselves for the most part within the Warm Food Rest Horse Place's walls, drinking their fill, and doesn't go out of their way to interact with other patrons unless they have some kind of alternative motive.
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Context | Field Operative
Yifa is a tall and intimidating figure who appears to be friends with the owner if one looks close enough at their interactions. They can be found at the Warm Food Rest Horse Place on most evenings, running their own gambling con in the back of the tavern's lobby (the coins are weighted), and occasionally speaking with one of the staff. Notably, when this occurs, Yifa is quick to leave the establishment soon after.
Yifa is one of the few Field Operatives in the Marsh Flats who follows through on investigations coming in from the Stablemen in the Marsh Flats.
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THE CROWN COLT in THUNDERHOOF VILLAGE
Welcome to the Crown Colt! Nestled far beyond the wooden arches of Thunderhoof, between a maze of inns, shops, and smiths, sits the Crown Colt. The Crown Colt is a large establishment which accommodates the centaurs and minotaurs which often thrive amongst King’s Valley. It is often a rowdy place, where good-natured fights and brawls will take place on the outside deck behind the inn. Such friendly competition and duels are often encouraged by bar owner Tuilinn Stormheart, so long as it’s a “Good, clean fight!”
OWNERSHIP Kings' Valley District
Tuilinn Stormheart Owner of the Crown Colt
Gender | Age | Race | Male | 34
| Centaur |
Appearance | Tuilinn Stormheart is a massive draft-horse bodied centaur; he has chestnut-toned skin and a muscular build. He has curly black hair which falls over his eyes in waves, causing him to often need to brush his bangs out of his face while in conversation.
The horse-half of his body is a seal brown, with white stockings and feathered fur at his ankles. Tuilinn favors long tunics and occasionally wears patterned scarves as head scarves to keep his bangs from his eyes.
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Personality | A massive centaur with an even larger heart; Tuilinn is a kind but raucous soul with a stutter in his speech patterns. His laugh fills the interior of the tavern when he’s present. A very personable man, he can often be found mingling with guests at the Crown Colt— joining in on drinking contests, gambling games, or even hosting brawls out back during his shifts.
All-in-all, he seems like a good man having a good time running his tavern.
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Context | Administrative Operative
Tuilinn Stormheart is a kind soul who genuinely wants the best for Charon’s future; and what he believes is best is simply the reign of the crown. Why fix what isn’t broken? Although he is not much one for taking action himself, due to his highly personable nature, Tuilinn is able to step in and out of conversations with ease.
He is, however, not particularly ambitious— and seems to have some hesitant sympathy for turning in rebels— and more oft than not, needs to be pushed in order to go through with some investigations.
He only hopes to see Charon's peace well into the future.
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OPERATIVES IN HEADQUARTERS
Kings' Valley District Wela Stonehoof
Bartender at the Crown Colt
Gender | Age | Race | Female | 53
| Minotaur |
Appearance | A long-furred minotaur woman who stands at roughly 6’ 8”; she has fluffy, auburn fur; and her overall animalistic appearance seems similar to that of a bison. She possesses a small blunt snout, and short curved horns with golden rings decorating their base. Her hair is of a medium length and falls in tight ringlets and braids around her face.
She has a muscular and athletic build; and she prefers to wear loose, layered robes of pastel colors to allow for her freedom of movement. She wears a number of patterned waist-sashes, as well as woven jewelry, all across her person. |
Personality | Wela is a large, stern, but gentle soul. She will be found most often behind the bar, serving patrons and joking heartily with all who interact with her. Although she is not quite as approachable and personable as Tuilinn, Wela has a sort of grandmotherly personality that is warm, yet scolding to those who may take advantage of Tuilinn’s enthusiasm and leniency for rough-housing while in her presence.
Regardless, now and then Wela is known to put up a good fight herself— she is a champion at arm wrestling— and happy to show up any of the Crown Colt’s haughty patrons with a show of strength.
She is, admittedly though, a bit of a sore loser. |
Context |
Operational Operative
Tuilinn’s yes-man for the most part; Wela is arguably more in-charge of the Crown Colt’s sector for the Stablemen association due to her stronger ambition, and less sympathy for those in the rebellion. She often pushes Tuilinn when he sways in his decisions to follow through on investigations, and takes charge in her own observation and research through her position at the Crown Colt.
She tends to be the muscle of their operations; and will encourage patrons to gamble, or pay their tabs, with local gossip about the Crown whenever they’re low on coin. |
Aurigo Oh'vara
Bookkeeper at the Crown Colt
Appearance | A young man who stands at roughly 5’ 11”; he has a lean but muscular build, mid-length blonde hair shaved short on both sides, and vibrant green eyes. His facial features are sharp and narrow, and his cheek-bones are prominent in his appearance. He wears a number of traditional jewelries and piercings, with tattoos visible across the right side of his body in places where his uniform does not cover.
He most often wears clothing and colors favored by his home tribe, the Oh’mek— and favors autumn colors throughout the year.
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Personality | A rather humble and quiet man, Aurigo is a breath of fresh air in the otherwise rowdy atmosphere that belongs to the Crown Colt. While Tuilinn and Wela together form the life of the party at the Crown Colt, Aurigo appears more as a wallflower. He seems to be all quiet smiles and soft words; he’s not always present on the main floor, but performs a lot of the menial tasks around the Crown Colt, on top of keeping track of tabs and profit.
Despite his more isolated nature in comparison to Wela or Tuilinn, Aurigo is usually the first to lend a hand or approach an unwaited table when he’s present. |
Context |
Communications Operative
Aurigo hails from the Oh’mek, and has only recently joined the Crown Colt’s staff within the past few years. He appears to be close friends with the bar owner, Tuilinn, and in fact was recruited by the centaur when the latter was passing through the territory of his home. He’s a clever young man, and works well with the boisterous staff of the Crown Colt— able to take over where Wela or Tuilinn might forget.
Aurigo is, however, not always present on the ground floor; as a mage, he’s proficient in the arcane, and spends a great portion of his day and evening relaying, translating, and sending out messages and information to and from the Stablemen. |
Tiao Hai
Musician at the Crown Colt
Gender | Age | Race | Genderfluid | 38 | Human |
Appearance | An elegant individual who stands at about 5’ 6”; they have a warm hazel skin tone, grey-blue eyes with delicate facial features, and a soft body-type. Tiao has long, straight black hair which is often drawn into a half-bun; they wear neutral eyeshadows and eyeliners which highlight their features eloquently. They mostly prefer robes of natural and spring-like colors— most often pastel greens and pinks.
Tiao often decorates their hair with various flowers that are found in King’s Valley— either by braiding them into their hair, or creating accessories out of them.
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Personality | An enthusiastic individual whose appearance, personality, and music best embody the feeling of spring itself. Bouncy and energetic, Tiao Hai enhances the atmosphere of the Crown Colt with their various musical talents; the low thunder of the drum, or the spring-like twittering of the flute. Their pieces are often fast and energetic regardless, contributing to the lively atmosphere of the Crown Colt.
They do not take place in the rough-housing, but occasionally picks a favorite competitor during competitions from the stage, or offers their voice as an announcer in order to encourage the banter and competition.
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Context |
Operational Operative
Hailing from the Katua’pu Tribe, Tiao Hai presumably left when they felt out-of-place among their people as an energetic and less than spiritual musician. They were, however, eventually taken in and embraced wholeheartedly by Wela Thunderhoof, who would go on to employ her musical talents at the Crown Colt.
Tiao Hai doesn’t take part in much of the information gathering, unless otherwise instructed— but has come to believe that the crown is what is keeping Charon in the peaceful state that it is currently in— and are willing to follow instructions as a result.
They hope to see the peace forwards. |
Chomp
Server at the Crown Colt
Appearance | A chubby, 3’ 8” gnoll with speckled fur painted in splotches of grey, white, brown, and black. Chomp has large and rounded ears, a pointed snout, and an expression that seems to paint him as always smiling. His tail seems to have been cut or damaged at some point, resulting in a smaller nub in its place.
He prefers to wear tunics and a loose pair of pants that fit his digitigrade legs.
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Personality | A distractible, enthusiastic, and mischievous soul who does his best. Chomp seems to believe he’s much stronger than he is, because he will be the first person to challenge newcomers to the Crown Colt to a friendly duel, or arm wrestle— but probably not any of the gambling games, as he’s not the sharpest tool in the shed.
Chomp is a happy fellow, but is distracted from his duties pretty easily— resulting in most tables that he waits on going unserved— or with Aurigo picking up the slack while he goofs off. |
Context | Field Operative
Originally a native to the Zeinavian Desert, Chomp was rescued by a Stableman Agent named Saburra, who would eventually suggest he take up residence with Tuilinn at the Crown Colt upon a visit from the centaur. Chomp lives permanently in one of the inn’s upper rooms, and is close companions with the staff of the Crown Colt as a result of his excited, genuine, and somewhat innocent nature.
He doesn’t seem to have much to do with the Stablemen, but he’s loyal to them as a result of his history with Saburra, and has no issue throwing rebels or rebel information under the wagon for his family when he comes across it. Chomp also occasionally runs deliveries and messages to the local members in Thunderhoof. |
THE MIDNIGHT MARE in DARKVEIL CITY
Welcome to the Midnight Mare.
Hidden amongst the maze of buildings and alleyways that make up the labyrinth of Darkveil City sits an old but charming tavern. With latticed windows, hanging lanterns, and aged by time, the Midnight Mare is admittedly not as popular as the more-charming Dancer’s Den. They have a small but friendly and well-loved group of staff, as well as a speakeasy in the back— where patrons may gamble, drink, and bicker to their liking— especially if they have information to offer in turn.
OWNERSHIP Ash Lands District "Mama" Majorna Mog
Owner of the Midnight Mare
Appearance | Majorna Mog, otherwise known affectionately as “Mama” is a brash, bold, and muscular orcish woman. She stands at a respectable 6’ 5”, and is the most intimidating of the staff at the Midnight Mare— but also one of the most well-loved when one gets to know her.
Her skin a hue of olive green; and her raven hair is often braided back and let to fall over one shoulder. She has a slight underbite, with one large fang that peeks between her lips, and plenty of old scars of a rough past beneath her cloak.
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Personality | A bold and confident woman; Majorna initially appears to be the intimidating figure that her appearance paints her at first; but stay or visit the Midnight Mare long enough to get past the shallow introductions, and one will realize that Majorna is a rather kind and gentle woman. Once a mercenary, she has since set down the sword to settle down with her fellow ex-mercenary, Meric Devrim.
She seems quite happy and content with her job; she has an endless breadth of stories after her many years of mercenary work; and she would never turn down a drinking contest or friendly competition.
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Context | Administrative Operative
Majorna Mog has since retired to settle down with her husband, Meric Devrim, after twenty or so years of mercenary work under the name of the Crown. Majorna bears all the scars and battle wounds that come from her line of work; but her passion for a peaceful Charon has never dulled. After retirement, although she considered returning home to the Marsh Flats with Meric, she ultimately found the Stablemen.
With her mercenary experience, she uses Darkveil’s own back-alley tactics, speakeasies, and energies to lull locals into a false sense of security— enough to share information that could be critical for apprehending rebels. |
OPERATIVES IN HEADQUARTERS
Ash Lands District Meric Devrim
Bartender at the Midnight Mare
Appearance | A human man who stands at about 5’ 9”; Meric is an intimidating looking man with a natural scowl, and many scars that came with a life of past mercenary work. He has a muscular, athletic build, warm-toned skin, and dirty-blonde hair that is kept back in a ponytail. He has a large, kempt, but busy beard that extends past his collarbone.
Meric prefers to wear layers in darker colors; often tucking in a dark tunic beneath darker slacks and covering the scars on his arms in a dark jacket or cloak. |
Personality | A quiet and cold individual; but much like his wife, Meric is not quite what he appears at first. Although Meric is friendly— often excusing tabs or offering free drinks at times— he’s a rather shy man. Although he doesn’t speak much, he appears fully happy to listen to those who return to the bar.
Though he doesn’t talk often, Meric is more than happy to tell you everything you didn’t ask for about his wife and their three beautiful children if you give him the chance. |
Context |
Operational Operative
An ex-mercenary who has since retired to settle down with his wife, Majorna Mog, after fifteen or so years of mercenary work under the name of the Crown. Similar to his wife, he bears all the scars and battle wounds that come from his line of work; and similarly, his passion for a peaceful Charon never quite died. In fact, it only grew stronger after the arrival of their three children.
He runs the Midnight Mare alongside Majorna; although still relatively new to Darkveil, the duo have proved to be trusted faces by most of the regulars who enter their establishment. |
Shahiri Beloise
Musician at the Midnight Mare
Gender | Age | Race | Female | 26
| Tiefling
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Appearance | A tiefling with ash-toned skin who stands at about 5’ 5”; she has a lean, athletic build and auburn-colored eyes. Beneath her eyes, she has a spattering of darker freckles which dot her cheeks. She has obsidian horns which curl in a waving motion and hug around her head. Her hair is black and white, split down the middle, and curled in loose ringlets which fall to her shoulders.
She often wears half-tops with sheer sleeves, and long flowing skirts upon her performances.
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Personality | A charismatic and playful young woman who works as a musician at the Midnight Mare every evening. As a native to Darkveil, she’s rather familiar with the musical style and energy of the city, and she matches it well. She’s quite a show-woman, and infuses each of her shows with her personal flamboyance and charm. Shahiri is talkative but flighty, often mingling with patrons after performances when she’s on her breaks.
A talented musician, and a bard, Shahiri is able to play her lute without the use of her hands— freeing her up for dance and verbal song. |
Context |
Communications Operative
A talented musician who plays the lute and sings with a small accompaniment of other musicians every evening at the Midnight Mare; she prefers jaunty tunes for the oft-rowdy atmosphere, and greatly enjoys the music and company. As a bard, she is efficient with magic, and helps the Midnight Mare with decoding, managing, and sending out messages during the mornings and afternoons when she’s not performing.
During evenings, Shahiri will occasionally use her popularity among patrons to gather information from individuals of interest. |
Nimu Ashclaw
Speakeasy Bookkeeper at the Midnight Mare
Gender | Age | Race | Female | 19
| Aviankin |
Appearance | A tiny horned owl with large amber eyes; Nimu stands at about 3’ 4” and has lovely, light ashen feathers dappled with hues of grey and white. She has a plump body frame thanks to the amount of feathered down on her body, which often sticks out at silly angles at the hems of her clothing.
Nimu tends to wear light-colored clothing, paired with colorful bangles at her talons and wrists.
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Personality | A quiet and dutiful bird, who is almost always behind the bar in the speakeasy. She doesn’t bother Olb, nor does she bother the patrons who come in— as sometimes, no questions and no interaction is the best way to build trust with certain Darkveil folk. She leaves people to their whims, only engaging with them when conversation is started with her.
Upon speaking to Nimu, one would find that she’s soft-spoken, but keen; and she always knows what kind of questions to ask to avoid angering patrons. |
Context |
Operational Operative
The bartender in the speakeasy behind the Midnight Mare; she and Olb make a dynamic duo— whereas Olb is able to swindle patrons and visitors with ease with their wit and quick-talking, Nimu is able to hear the goings on of the Speakeasy without needing to leave the counter unattended due to her keen sense of hearing.
Sometimes she may be seen writing in a journal at the back of the bar— this is where she keeps most of her information— hidden amongst the book-keeping of the Speakeasy. |
Olb
Speakeasy Card Dealer at the Midnight Mare
Gender | Age | Race | Non-Binary | 24 | Goblin |
Appearance | A scrawny goblin with a steel-grey skin tone who stands at about 3’ 4”. Olb has light grey hair, which they slick back— but which still sticks out at odd angles despite the fact. Their ears are large and pierced with several pieces of silver, copper, and gold jewelries; and they wear a hoop piercing in their rather pointed nose. Olb has sharp teeth and a high-pitched wheezing voice; they can often be found with a cigar between their lips while they deal cards.
They most often wear a simple vest and slacks layered with a tattered jacket, which they claim was a gift from someone important. |
Personality | A charismatic individual who is proficient at scams, and makes a name for themselves as a quick-talker with a quicker card-draw. Olb has the kind of charisma that draws patrons in, and encourages them to continue spending coin on drinks, gambling, and the like until their pocket is nearly empty.
They know how to work a room, and use the combination of alcohol, quick-talk, and gambling to get patrons talking.
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Context | Operational Operative
A master of sleight of hand and manipulation; while they are either a hit or miss to the general patrons of the Midnight Mare (depending on how much you lose from playing their games), Olb knows the many ins and outs of Darkveil like the backs of their hands... and they certainly know how to work over a patron at the gambling table. Olb uses the combination of drink, gambling, and never-ending strings of conversation to squeeze information out of people... and once a patron runs out of money, information is always an acceptable payment.
Olb works closely with Nimu, who keeps track of the information they can get out of patrons so that Olb can focus on what they do best.
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THE BASKING BRONCO in PALE CITY
Welcome to the Basking Bronco!
As weather-beaten travelers stumble across the border into Frost Gale, they may stumble upon a small cottage out in the snow. The Basking Bronco, with its warm candle-lit windows, is a miracle to weary and frozen travelers coming in through the main road. Run more like an inn, or a bed-and-breakfast, than a tavern— Zifrah and her staff will ensure that travelers have a welcome and comfortable experience before heading back out into the tundra. OWNERSHIP Frost Gale District Zifrah Snowcrest
Owner of the Basking Bronco
Gender | Age | Race | Female | 69 | Human |
Appearance | A senior woman who stands at about 5’ 4” with a hunched posture; she has long silver hair drawn into a bun, and a cool fawn complexion to her skin. Zifrah has soft and drowsy features punctuated by the wrinkles of her age, rosy cheeks, and cold blue eyes.
She walks with a cane, which may open to become a sword in the most tense circumstances; and most often wears fluffy coats, slacks, and furred boots in order to keep warm in the frigid climate of the Frost Gale. |
Personality | A kind and grandmotherly woman who is well-loved by both her patrons and her wife, Yaru, who works alongside her at the Basking Bronco. She is quite lenient with her patrons— often waiving away tabs for weary travelers— and she is plenty happy to cook and care for them after long journeys through the Dragon’s Cradle to arrive at her establishment.
She prefers to keep her inn cozy and homely— plenty warm by firelight for chilly travelers and locals alike. She tends to dote and attend to her customers quite closely, making her very personable. |
Context | Administrative Operative
Zifrah was once a minstrel who traveled the lands of Charon; and after seeing so much violence throughout her days, she has a distaste for rebels she’s witnessed first-hand, who disturb the peace of what she views as an otherwise peaceful nation.
Although many of her years were spent in inaction; now that she’s in her twilight years with her small family, she has settled down with the Stablemen— hoping that she can help keep Charon a safe place beneath the rule of the crown for not only herself, but for her loved ones as well. |
OPERATIVES IN HEADQUARTERS Frost Gale District Yaru Snowcrest
Bookkeeper at the Basking Bronco
Gender | Age | Race | Female
| 67 | Human |
Appearance | A senior woman who stands at about 5’9”; evidence of her athletic build remains even in her older age; and she sports a number of scars from her past as a mercenary. She has sharp, but softening features as she moves forwards in her years; and soft hazel eyes with an umber skin tone. Her hair falls in tight black ringlets around her face.
She wears a layered undershirt and fur-lined jacket with slacks and fur-laced boots to keep warm within the frigid climate of the Frost Gale. |
Personality | A stern woman who holds an expression that could is best described as cold; in contrast to Zifrah, Yaru will not be seen interacting with many patrons of the Basking Bronco. She is not easy to talk with, often cutting individuals short or uncomfortably waiting to leave most conversations that she’s pulled into.
While her presence can be chilly, Yaru brightens up around Zifrah and Iri— showing a much warmer side of herself when she’s accompanied by either her wife or adopted child. |
Context | Communications Operative
Yaru met Zifrah years ago when the latter was still a traveling minstrel; head over heels upon witnessing her first performance, Yaru would become Zifrah’s traveling companion, and eventually her wife. They would travel to Charon for a time together, witnessing all that the land had to offer— some good, and some bad; and as a mercenary, she’s seen the worst of the worst.
She shares her wife’s belief that Charon is most peaceful beneath the crown, and that the rebels are causing trouble where it is not needed.
Although she is not proficient with the arcane, Yaru has a great deal of knowledge of the Crown Jewel— and is the primary messenger for Frost Gale’s district— and currently mentoring Drifa on the use of the Jewel.
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Iri Snowcrest
Part-Time Musician at the Basking Bronco
Gender | Age | Race | Non-Binary
| 7 | Catfolk |
Appearance | A small, plump catfolk with lush and fluffy fur. They stand at about 3’ 8” and have bright yellow eyes. Iri has grey and tan dappled fur with a lighter grey hue notable around their neck and muzzle above their collar line. Their paws are almost comically large in comparison to their size, and their tail is long, poofy, and patterned with rings of black.
They tend to prefer lighter clothing in comparison to most— running around in a tunic and simple slacks without the use of shoes. |
Personality | A cheerful but shy catfolk; they learned to play their instruments from Zifrah; and prove to be extremely talented in the musical arts. They’re not exactly one for talking— preferring to point people towards either of their mothers— or any of the staff if they have questions.
Occasionally, Iri will choose to hide behind her mothers when approached instead of simply conversing with another soul; but a different side of Iri, a more playful and cheerful side, comes out when they play for the patrons of the Basking Bronco.
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Context | Field Operative
Adopted very young by Zifrah and Yaru; Iri was found in the storeroom gnawing on dried meats. After their inability to find where they came from, the couple adopted them, and treat Iri as their child. Iri learned everything that they know from Zifrah and Yaru; and found their joy in music from Zifrah even after the woman lost her ability to play with an early onset of arthritis.
They are not necessarily as passionate about the Stablemen as their parents, but Iri values their opinions greatly— and so they happily will use their cat-like stealth and senses to pick up information that comes in around the Basking Bronco to deliver to their mothers... Or whatever other chores they might have for them.
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Krislin Hollyheart
Bartender at the Basking Bronco
Gender | Age | Race | Male | Unknown | Gnome
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Appearance | A tiny, elder gnomish man who stands at about 2’ 6” and has a jolly, round appearance. His pale features are softened by his old age; and his eyes are a soft but vibrant green. He sports a large beard which falls just past his belly, rosy-cheeks, and a pair of small spectacles that sit on his large, rose-dusted nose.
He wears a great big, red furred coat and a furred hat; but on warmer days, he will shed his coat for a simple cream-colored shirt and black suspenders. |
Personality | A good-mannered old gnome with a lifetime’s worth of experience and advice to give to patrons whether they asked for it or not. He claims to have lived long enough to witness the last war in Charon; which made a once-bitter young gnome believe that life is worth living happily and to its best potential; and he wishes to spread that kind of joy with others as a result of living through such dour times.
He always seems to be in a jolly mood, and is as happy to listen to his patrons as he is to talk to them.
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Context | Operational Operative
Krislin has worked as the bartender to the Basking Bronco for some time; as such, the entirety of the bar is completely accommodated to his small stature to allow him access to all the shelves and bottles. Behind the bar is a labyrinth of step ladders, stools, and ladders on wheels which he uses with great efficiency and normalcy.
Though not necessarily able to be proven, Krislin claims to have lived through the last war in Charon— and he says this often with convincing conviction. He wishes to never see another, and will not hesitate to turn over rebel information, or coordinate investigations on behalf of Charon’s peace beneath the crown. |
Drifa Olwen
Server at the Basking Bronco
Gender | Age | Race | Female | 32
| Tiefling |
Appearance | A young tiefling woman who stands at about 5’ 9” and sports a twisted pair of horns which almost appear like branches. Her skin is an opalescent white, resembling snow, and her straight hair falls just past her shoulders— stark black in contrast. Her eyes are a pupiless blue, and she wears a number of dangling silver piercings in her pointed ears. Her tail transitions into a narrow point, and is decorated with silver bangles.
She tends to prefer layered clothing— a blouse which drapes just past her shoulders, and a long skirt which falls overtop slacks, with fur-lined boots for trudging through the snow.
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Personality | Calm and elegant; Drifa drifts from patron to patron with an almost ethereal glow about her. She is a welcome face for patrons who have just stepped into the Basking Bronco, and is often the first to settle them near the fire to thaw out, or bring them a hot drink.
She’s a rather friendly and personable woman, happy to talk about herself, and happy to make small-talk with those willing.
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Context | Operational/Communications Operative
A recent hire, and server for the Basking Bronco; she seems to have come from the Moonglade originally.
Drifa makes herself quite personable— a motherly figure to Zifrah’s grandmotherly visage— and helps those entering the Basking Bronco get comfortable and warm. She seems to dote on many of their patrons, ensuring that she will have their favor and trust when it comes to small talk and idle conversation at later points during their stay.
Drifa is also a member of the Mage’s Guild, and is efficient with the arcane; when she is off-duty, she is an apprentice to Yaru— and often takes over decoding and sending messages to the Stablemen.
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THE SANDSTONE STALLION in ZEINAV CITY
Welcome to the Sandstone Stallion!
In the outskirts of Zeinav City, where the desert meets civilization, one can find the Sandstone Stallion— a welcome reprieve after days of travel. It is one of the first and only resting locations upon exiting the expanse of the White Sand Sea, making it a busy location for travelers looking to rest, settle for the night, or get a drink. A beautiful location surrounded by glistening sand dunes; the Sandstone Stallion is filled with the wafting essence of burning incense, comfortable and lavish pillows and seats, and the gentle hum of a lyre from their tavern musician.
OWNERSHIP Zeinav Desert District Saburra
Owner of the Sandstone Stallion
Gender | Age | Race | Female | 23
| Lizardfolk |
Appearance | A lizard folk with a blunt, rounded snout; a diamond-shaped head; and granite speckled grey eyes. Saburra is an ample woman who stands at about 4’ 11”; her scales are textured with small bumps, colored a striking gold, and speckled with a gradient hue of brown to deep black spots. She has a visibly lighter front, sporting a cream-color which is visible beginning from the bottom of her jaw, to the nape of her neck.
She tends to favor neutral or pastel robes, and decorates her person with glittering, golden jewelries. She accents her outfits with multi-layered waist sashes patterned ornately, and loose headdresses.
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Personality | A calm woman; Saburra is often misjudged as cold and unapproachable; and some may notice her general absence from the working floor during daylight, and late night hours. Saburra offers an atmosphere around her which seems apathetic; her voice comes off as stern, even biting at times; and she maintains a strict environment in order to keep the Sandstone Stallion a calm, restful place.
Despite her absence during the day, early risers and afternoon arrivals will notice Saburra very present during the dawn and dusk hours; she keeps herself busy, monitoring her tavern closely, and quietly keeping the books behind the bar.
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Context | Administrative Operative
Saburra runs the Sandstone Stallion with efficiency and grace; despite having little time to really do so.
Saburra is an arcane user who once apprenticed beneath a powerful shaman of the tribe that she hailed from. Her experience allows her to work with the Jewels of the Crown, interpreting and encoding messages, while her staff keep eyes on the business for most of the day.
She spends most of her day working in the basement of the Sandstone Stallion, and most of her night resting, or updating the books; her early mornings and afternoons are spent monitoring the tavern. Saburra has many connections throughout Zeinav Desert, particularly with guides heading through the White Sand Sea.
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OPERATIVES Zeinav Desert District Kattanondhaya, "Katta"
Musician at the Sandstone Stallion
Gender | Age | Race | Female
| 89
| Naga
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Appearance | A naga who stands at about 6’ 3” at her highest; Katta is a young woman with cool, olive-toned skin; and cold, blue eyes with black sclera surrounding it. She has thin, black hair which falls to her mid-back, but is often drawn up in a messy bun.
Her outfit is accented by a thin, red veil of sheer, which falls from a circlet affixed in the front of her hair. She wears a red top that falls over the slope of her shoulders, with sheer sleeves and golden trim at its collar; her snake-half is cream-colored, easily the same shade as the White Sand Sea itself, and is patterned with splotches in eloquent and startling red and black bands.
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Personality | A graceful and beautiful woman; Katta is ethereal in the way that she presents herself. She is a talented and passionate musician, which shows in the way that she both plays and dances. Katta takes up an evening role, playing tirelessly every evening in the Sandstone Stallion from sunset, until the wee hours of dawn.
Occasionally, Katta’s music seems to have peculiar emotional responses from the lingering crowds in the Sandstone Stallion.
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Context | Operational Operative
A close friend of Saburra; Katta arrives every evening to play for the patrons of the Sandstone Stallion. She is an arcanely charged musician, occasionally using her music to influence certain crowds or individuals at Saburra’s request— sometimes to calm, other times to rile, and other times to charm.
She does not participate often in the actual gathering of information, but does assist in helping Saburra subtly attain the accompaniment of any persons of interest— often, by using her wits and charm to isolate them— and bring them to Saburra.
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Caio Bordavin-Bavuehd
Bartender at the Sandstone Stallion
Gender | Age | Race | Male | 183
| Sun Elf
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Appearance | A tall, lanky elf who stands at about 6’ 3”; he has slender features, a narrow nose, and stark white hair, which stands out against his warm, chestnut skin-tones. Caio’s hair is short, with long bangs that he slicks back to keep out of his eyes. He wears a large amount of jewelry and bangles, to the point where he can be heard moving behind the bar from the other side of the Sandstone Stallion.
He most often wears an elaborate, golden wardrobe with draping white sleeves, and purple accents in the waist and undershirt.
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Personality | A warm elven man; unlike Saburra, Caio radiates an approachable warmth that draws people to him, and makes him a talkable figure. Although somewhat quiet, Caio makes for a great listener; and is happy to listen to the woes of weary travelers, as well as tell his own stories.
He is always happy to indulge in Ketri's shenanigans, and spends much of his time watching over the Sandstone Stallion from behind the bar when Saburra is absent during most of the day.
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Context | Operational Operative
Caio once hailed from Sol City a century ago, but has since moved to the Zeinav Desert in permanence; although disliking the heat at first, he came to fall in love with the culture and the Zeinav Desert’s multitude of diverse people and creatures.
He desires to keep Zeinav Desert safe beneath the crown’s lead, and uses his approachability and warmth to catch persons of interest off-guard and get them talking; he works well with his wife, Ketri Bordavin-Bavuehd; and keeps track of the information gathered from patrons.
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Ketri Bordavin-Bavuehd
Server at the Sandstone Stallion
Gender | Age | Race | Female
| 72 | Dwarf |
Appearance | A stocky dwarven woman with faun skin and short chestnut curls; her skin is freckled by the sun, particularly noticeable across her nose and arms. Her features are plump, and her overall frame muscular; Ketri seems to perpetually wear a bright smile, highlighting her dimpled cheeks.
She most often wears a blouse which falls just over the slopes of her freckled shoulders, a long, olive skirt, and golden bangles around each wrist.
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Personality | A boisterous woman with high energy, a contagious laugh, and a tendency to drink just as much as the patrons of the Sandstone Stallion despite working there. Ketri is a champion at holding her alcohol, and is no stranger to a challenge: patrons are welcome to play her in a drinking game, which, she most often wins… and returns to work.
She is a playful soul, and engages with the travelers and patrons of the Sandstone Stallion with enthusiasm and gusto.
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Context | Operational Operative
A native of the Zeinav Desert, Ketri worked with Saburra for several years before getting engaged to Caio, and eventually tying the knot. With her high energy and tendency to rile up patrons of the Sandstone Stallion through her boisterous attitude, Ketri uses her high alcohol tolerance to challenge persons of interest to drinking competitions— of which, she has always won.
She is one of the more engaging and friendly faces of the Sandstone Stallion, making her just as popular as her husband when it comes to interacting with patrons. She works well with her husband, and together, they work out most of the information that will eventually reach Saburra.
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Whisk Stablehand & Guide at the Sandstone Stallion's Stable
Gender | Age | Race | Non-Binary | Uncertain
| Aviankin |
Appearance | Whisk stands at roughly 3’ 1”; they are a rather small aviankin with a unique anatomy at first glance. With a lanky body, long neck and beak, and skinny legs, one might mistake them for a roadrunner; their feathers are dappled a tan, with darker chestnut speckles along their wings. Their eyes are a dull amber, and are coin-sized.
Very rarely does anyone see Whisk blink.
They have a mohawk seemingly made of longer feathers at the top of their head, and choose to wear light clothing out in the desert heat.
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Personality | Quiet and a bit odd at first, Whisk is a wide-eyed Aviankin who has been employed for several years at the Sandstone Stallion as a part-time stablehand and part-time guide out on the White Sand Sea. Despite their personality oddities, Whisk has a great breadth of knowledge about the desert, its dangerous inhabitants, and how to survive in the landscape.
The Aviankin does not talk all that much unless directly spoken to. Whisk can sometimes be found away from the Sandstone Stallion, guiding caravans across the desert to Zeinav City, or riding alone with their horse.
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Context | Field Operative
Whisk is sometimes seen within the Sandstone Stallion, most often trotting down into the basement; but is more often found in the stable, caring for the mounts. Whisk often disappears for days at a time, and is hard to track due to their vast knowledge of the desert.
Often, Whisk is the one who apprehends or intercepts people of interest; despite their small size, Whisk is fast and dangerous when armed; making them an unfortunate individual to have on one’s trail. They are an expert at tracking through the desert, and are plenty patient to wait until their target has become isolated to strike.
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THE STORMING STEED in DRAGON'S CRADLE Welcome to The Storming Steed!
Amongst the lower district in the city of Thorock sits The Storming Steed; it is a coastal location which is constantly buffeted by bay-side winds, intense storms, and the salt of the sea. Criminals, pirates, and the lower class of Thorock tend to frequent this location; where else would put up with such rowdiness, even deign to encourage the chaos? OWNERSHIP Dragon's Cradle District Jaidre Lanark
Owner of The Storming Steed Gender | Age | Race | Female | 54 | Human
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Appearance | A stocky muscled woman who is well into her fifties; her features are sharp and angular, accented by shallow wrinkles which have begun to show her age. Her hair is a dark brown which gives way to ashen grey streaks beginning at her temples, and cutting through her wavy locks.
Jaidre shows a lifetime’s worth of scars visible upon her bare forearms, face, and neck; she wears neutral colors, layered beneath a long overcoat, with the sleeves rolled up just enough to show her scars.
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Personality | A cold and unapproachable individual; Jaidre has the kind of default scowl that one would imagine chases most of her patrons away— but in Dragon’s Cradle, most respect Jaidre’s presence as a former, hardened pirate.
Her reputation proceeds her: a rough, rowdy woman with a taste for alcohol, trouble, and her own brand of justice, which often does not include the opinions of her patrons, nor coworkers. Jaidre has tossed many a patron out on their ass, and silenced bar fights by her own hands.
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Context | Operational Operative
Previously known as Jaidre the Sea Sword, Jaidre Lanark is a former pirate captain brought in by bounty hunters after holding out against them on her vessel, The Sea Mare, for several nights. Her experience with smuggling and the criminal underworld bought her a one-way pardon during her trial before the council, masked as an escape from the bounty hunters who had captured her. Placed in the protection of the council, Jaidre reluctantly accepted her new life in exchange for her loyalty to the crown— and, to the Stablemen.
Jaidre is kept under surveillance by members of the council to ensure she remains loyal— or pays the consequences for disloyalty.
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OPERATIVES Dragon's Cradle District Valdaz Trencher
Regular at The Storming Steed
Appearance | A short and husky man who stands at about 5’5; he has a plump build with noticeable musculature, looking as though he has labored a great deal in his life. His scruffy black hair has just begun to gray, giving his unbrushed hair a speckled appearance; and he has a short, black beard which features the same appearance.
Valdez has some noticeable scars which show lighter against his tanned skin, with the most noticeable striking across the bridge of his nose to his right cheek. Valdez dresses in neutral colors, and often wears the latest styles popular with Thorock’s lower class citizens.
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Personality | A boisterous, vulgar, and loud man; Valdaz seems to be intoxicated at all points in time, making his company obnoxious and often undesirable. Valdaz is easily angered, and is legendary for his bar fights— in which, he can easily be provoked into. His problematic drinking habits often see Valdez holed up for days at a time after; and he seemingly does not get along well with Jaidre, who he can sometimes be seen arguing with in the corners of the establishment.
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Context | Field Operative
One of the members of the council’s surveillance team, Valdaz has been assigned to the Storming Steed to keep an eye on Jaidre’s motions, and ensure she is following the Stablemen’s creed. Valdaz, truthfully, has no respect for Jaidre— and believes that the council’s decision will ultimately blow up in their face for showing a double-sided secrecy. As such, he keeps Jaidre on a tight leash— constantly frequenting her facility to confront her on lapsing in her business, or question her loyalty.
When Valdaz is not keeping surveillance on Jaidre and her business, Valdez works as a bounty hunter— one of those who originally captured Jaidre to begin with. He follows up personally on targets which Jaidre reports back with, and confirms their legitimacy.
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Aequa Caballys
Bartender at The Storming Steed
Gender | Age | Race | Female
| 41
| Fellblood
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Appearance | A tall, slender woman who stands tall at 6' 1"; Aequa has sharp but rounded features with piercing blue phoenix eyes and wisping black hair that falls, braided with golden strands, to her mid-back. Her skin is red-toned in hue, dusted with crimson at her horns and tail-tip, and her voice is melodic in tone.
Aequa possesses notable scars along the palms and backs of her hands, which are visible when she is passing drinks off to patrons; her wardrobe consists of very naval inspired outfits— including the very outfit that she was captured in alongside Jaidre those few years ago.
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Personality | A clever, amorous, and chatty woman; as Jaidre's former first mate, Aequa is one of the few individuals within The Storming Steed that the owner would trust with her life. Aequa is, perhaps, the most approachable person within The Storming Steed— one of the few who do not immediately make it seem as though one's very presence is a burden. Generally friendly, Aequa does not seem to mind striking up conversation with those at the bar; and in fact, does more leg work than Jaidre seems to do around the bar, itself— often making her appear as the bar owner when she is not.
Aequa is not to be underestimated, however— as her years of naval combat will come into play the moment a bar fight begins.
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Context | Operational Operative
In the past, Aequa was Jaidre's first mate and trusted companion; after falling victim to a similar trial from the council after capture, Aequa was the only one of her crew to follow her captain's footsteps. Although still somewhat ashamed of her willingness to turn her back on the only home she's known of the sea, Jaidre means more to her. Aequa can be seen being rough and rude with Valdaz— a man she has distaste for— and seen speaking on friendlier terms with Jaidre at other times.
Aequa is not trusted to handle Stablemen duties outside of gathering information, and ensuring Jaidre remains in line with their creed, for her own safety.
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Acies Saevio
Musician at The Storming Steed
Gender | Age | Race | Male
| 39 | Draconynh |
Appearance | A large, gruff Draconynh; Acies is a tall, muscular reptilian with a large wingspan and pearlescent white scales. His head is angularly shaped, with a square jaw-line, and horns which curl like a wave behind his head. His wings are torn in places, and a large chunk of the scales on his right arm have been burned away at some point, leaving his grey, leather-like skin visible.
He wears flight-friendly clothing, which appears to have been personally tailored to his person, and prefers to wear dark or neutral colours in styles most associated with the upper district.
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Personality | A quiet, calm-tempered individual who does not make himself particularly personable within the confines of the Storming Steed. Acies is not an easy man to talk to but he is not a terrible man to talk to, either; it is hard to have a conversation with Acies, as he often makes himself appear closed off when not performing. Acies plays the harp— a strange contrast to the gracefulness of the instrument— at the front stage of The Storming Steed during the afternoon hours before disappearing into the basement of the Storming Steed, with little intention of sticking around to mingle with the drunken patrons.
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Context | Communications Operative
A former bounty hunter who is magically in tune with the Sky Domain; Acies was from the same bounty hunting team as Valdaz, and has since been assigned to supervise the Stablemen Operation run by Jaidre in Dragon's Cradle. Acies is constantly present within the tavern— whether he is to be found on stage, or in the basement handling Stablemen's incoming and outgoing messages.
When interacting with Jaidre or Aequa, Acies seems to be significantly more tolerated than Valdaz; very rarely does the Draconynh involve himself in bar fights— but he should not be underestimated, as his physical strength is great.
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Astella Solis
Bookkeeper at The Storming Steed
Gender | Age | Race | Female | 421 | Sylvan Elf
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Appearance | A tall, wispy woman who stands at about 6' 3"; Astella has a lean, willowy build with soft but noticable musculature; and a faun skin-tone dotted with darker freckles. Her hair is a striking platinum silver, curled tightly in ringlets which fall around her soft, rounded face, and highlight the depths of green in Astella's eyes. She seems to grow flowers naturally from curling locks of her hair, intertwined with vines and blooms alike, which seem to change as the seasons progress.
She wears tight clothing, with a cropped top that shows off her mid-rift, and a long skirt which flows in pleats around her laced boots.
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Personality | A friendly and welcoming, but overall unmemorable woman; despite her striking and unique appearance, many patrons seem to forget that the woman works at the Storming Steed in the first place. She does not take offense to these assumptions however, because that is exactly what she intends for; Astella works simply and quietly— making small talk with patrons, and making herself approachable to those drinking or ordering when needed.
She seems to be a patient and calm soul, but steps out of the way during rowdier times of the evening, in order to allow Aequa or Jaidre to step up.
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Context | Administrative Operative
The head supervisor sent by the council to supervise Jaidre and Aequa's Stablemen operation; she is, arguably, the most hated of the three supervisors due to her cold attitude and her ability to manipulate memories of the day come to pass. Astella reports directly to the council on Jaidre and Aequa's status, and has a strong iron-grip on The Storming Steed, despite Jaidre's name being the one on the deed.
In reality, Astella's patience is thin despite her outward calm— she is a master of masking her usual emotions, and a master of manipulating the emotions of others. Her status is above Valdaz and Acies both, who report to her on any matters of the Stablemen, or of the two ex-pirates. She has a great grudge towards the rebellion due to complications of the past which she is not willing to talk about, and she will not entertain conversation of.
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Global Moderator
490 POSTS & 0 LIKES
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Post by Admin: Otto on Feb 12, 2023 18:19:00 GMT -5
The Lesser Triumvirate Despite the common notion that The Lesser Triumvirate should strive to work together for the well-being of the people and the progress of Charon as a whole, the relationship between the three major guilds of Charon is far from peaceful. Marked by jealousy, intrigue, and internal strife, the full scale of the drama that unfolds between the guilds does so behind closed doors. It remains secret to the public as a result of the Crown and its spies smothering the root of the issue before it can be publicized.
The Fighter's Guild The Fighter’s Guild is the most robust of all the guilds. Their hierarchy is rigid, their connections are tight, and their members are known for bending over backwards to protect one another. It is widely known that they have an inner jury and justice system, which sometimes rises even above the law of the King.
Their strained relationship to the Crown relates to the guild’s origins and persists even to this day. It is said that during the Rune Wars, a prominent commander of the Sol City’s army, Belanor, grew tired of seeing the price paid by the common folk for King Darius’ recklessness. Soon, Belanor left the army after being tasked to sow distrust into a dark elves’ settlement. After swiftly being branded a traitor, Belanor was welcomed by the rebels opposing King Darius, and became an important figure among them due to his experience as a military leader.
After Belanor’s rebel group was nearly destroyed by an operation of mages working under the King’s influence, Belanor took the reins of the group - or, what was left of it. Belanor’s leadership shaped two important aspects of the rebellion: its military-like organization, and its distrust for mages. His commander’s skills were put to good use, as Belanor began gathering masters in their respective fields to train the rebels.
When Belanor managed to strike an alliance with the Venator, a famous family of monster hunters, things really took a turn. The Venator, a famous family of dark elves of the Dragon’s Cradle, has claimed its bloodlines can be traced back to the legendary figure of Alcaeus Venator, a powerful warrior who fought during The Collapse. Legends speak of Alcaeus as the first mage hunter in history, although little is known of the origin of his hatred for the arcane and its users. His name rose in prominence as a result of his success in slaying not only the godless mages, but the chimeras and horrid aberrations created by arcane users and alchemists who wished to put forth a front in the fight against the gods.
One by one; and with determination, strength, and strategy; Alcaeus defeated hundreds of monstrous aberrations, and those who had created them, throughout his lifetime. After being raised to a new height of political power and nobility, the Venator remained isolated and recluse, and did not take part in the political influence of Charon. Instead, the Venator remained hyper-focused on honing their abilities and skills, which had wielded an unbroken line of phenomenal warriors. Through mercenary work, monster slaying, and the assassination of mages, the Venator built their great wealth.
Even King Darius attempted to isolate the family in order to prevent them from taking sides during his rampage; and rumour states that King Davius, King Darius’ father, had once tried to subjugate the family by sending the royal army to their doorstep to no avail. Little is known about the incident, as the failure of the royal army was so spectacular, that the Crown has seen to it to erase such a humiliating chapter from the annals of Charon’s history.
Once the Venator family had finally stepped from its state of political neutrality - or apathy, some might say - the scales of the rebellion tipped. The head of the Venator at the time of King Darius’ rule, Tyliana Venator, was a dark elf woman rumoured to be at the head of the rebellion alongside Belanor. Under proper, experienced leadership, the group of rebels took up the name of The Crownbreaker, and actively contributed to the downfall of King Darius by arming and training civilians for war against the Crown. It is said that Belanor himself was the one who decapitated King Darius’ son, Dante, on the steps of the castle - but official sources state otherwise.
Some say King Emanious made a mistake for not dismantling The Crownbreakers immediately; instead, he allowed the remaining members, still under Belanor’s leadership, to be incorporated back into the kingdom under the Fighter’s Guild. In an attempt to atone for the sins of his father, King Emanious gave them a place to call home, and provided them funds to begin anew.
However, the Fighter’s Guild has always been at odds with the royal army: since the brotherhood of the guild often appears to have more to offer and less to ask compared to the servitude of the royal army, the guild often steals good fighters and commanders from the royal army’s ranks. More often than not, the members of the Fighter’s Guild distrust everything that royalty and nobility have laid their hands on… including the Golden Consortium, with its twisted and suspicious origins.
The rivalry between the Fighter’s Guild and the Mage’s Guild is legendary: but from the Fighter’s Guild’s perspective, it stems directly from their jealousy of the attention, care, and funds that the Mage’s Guild receives from the Crown. (And, of course, from the arrogance of the mages themselves.) Adding to their distrust and rivalry towards the Mage’s Guild is the fact that a large percentage of mages tend to come from noble families.
Since their officialization, the Fighter’s Guild rarely receives monetary help from the Crown; and many suspect that it is because the Crown fears its independence and its detachment from its duties to the realm… making the Fighter’s Guild a threat to the royal army itself. Because of this, a slight spin on the guild was needed for its survival during times of peace, causing the guild to turn to mercenary work.
The Fighter’s Guild is a community made by, for, and with the people’s best interest at heart: and this has never changed since its foundation. In numbers, it is the largest guild amongst the three, with fewer impediments to new members.
It was the least corruptible of the three guilds, given its military outlook, but recent years might have seen a change…
The Mage's Guild Scholars will debate of the origins of the Mage's Guild, saying it can be traced back to the Age of Wonders, and that they were the main source of innovative technologies that helped Charon become the powerful nation that it was at the time.
During the Age of Wonders, a man named Malaki Maazeric was the first one to start the long journey of studies and experimentations that shaped the understanding of magic Charon has to this day. Considered to be the Prime Mage of Charon, Malaki was told to be gifted with a sharp intellect and intuition, which made for his progress as pioneer in this new source of power that became so important for Charon.
It is said that, when Malaki started to understand how to manipulate this power, he took off on a pilgrimage to find other people who understood it or were said to be able to use it to some extent. Malaki documented all of his findings during his journey and was quick to associate this powers to each major deity. Some people whisper, however, that Malaki was somewhat of a dreamer, and had all of his work documented and organized by his wife, Faleena.
An ancient draft of an organization called The Archanum, some kind of ancient mage's guild was found, and the ranks of hierarchy were labeled as "Rings": there were seven rings in total, being the first reserved to who would Exalt in at least one aspect of magic, or "Domain"; the second for those who Exalted in two Domains, and so on. The seventh ring of power was reserved to Malaki himself, who had previously Exalted in all known Domains of magic and achieved a higher comprehension of the arcane powers, becoming, on top of it all, the First Archmage of Charon.
With his wife keeping him grounded, his bright insightful mind guiding and more than a bit of incentive from his peers, Malaki became a legend as the First Mage of Charon, said to be blessed by all the Gods of the pantheon. His work shapes the understanding of magic, the discovery of the different domains, how to draw into this power and how to alter reality with it.
Some say that the outlining of this guild was made by Faleena, not Malaki, and they both acted synergistically: him, at the forefront of the research of everything arcane, and she, at an organizational level. It was a great communing of the sharpest minds across the entire continent, all flocking together to create new technologies and discuss on the discoveries of this new source of power that was magic. If that is true, very little of The Archanum is left. Most of the relics and magical artifacts that are being found today are probably from this era, collected and kept by The Archanum.
The story of the guild that is known now actually begins during the Age of Renewal, when magic was an essential element to the rise of the new civilization, but still distrusted due to the conflicts with the gods that turned Charon into a pile of rubble. One of Mamadon Solarian's counselers tried to solve this impasse by trying to revive - or create for the first time, depending on which scholar to believe - the Mage's Guild under the seal and protection of the Crown. From the very start, the association between the Crown and the Mage's Guild has been tight: the Crown provides money and influence, and the Mage's Guild provide the monarchy with counselors, technologies and everything arcane. However, there was one modification to the organization of this guild in comparison to the old one: there were now Six Rings of power inside the guild, since teaching the Dark Domain was forbidden at this time.
Everything went well until the rule of King Darius. The guild had become elitist, subjugating and snobby under the cruel king's rule, being one of the main weapons of the Crown against his own people - a lot of the distrust and hatred the Fighter's Guild has for the Mage's Guild comes from this period of time. Doing the bidding of King Darius, the guild became rich and powerful like never before.
The problems started with the rise of a new threat: just as Darius proclaimed his holiness and imposed restrictions on the use of magic and religion, a group of mages suddenly resurfaced from the depths of Frost Gale. This group of mages claimed to belong to the organization The Archanum, the ancient Mage's Guild that was thought to be extinct. They claimed they followed a Seer, who supposedly had visions of the Collapse, and urged a small group of them to hide in Frost Gale with a few, important and powerful artifacts, scrolls and tomes, to protect the knowledge for the future. All this time they remained in a self imposed state of "time stasis": they were able to create an area around their hideout where effects of the passing of ages wouldn't apply, until it was time for them to bring their knowledge out in the world once again.
It is uncertain if their magic shield failed for another reasons or if they simply were found out, but once they were found, the King immediately ordered them to submit and give their tomes of ancient knowledge and powerful artifacts. They didn't, and while the Fighter's Guild went out in the field to challenge the royal army, a portion of the mages fought a smaller, silent war amongst themselves, adding to the resentment among the guilds. Eventually, the King's Mages won - and nobody knows what was done of the tomes The Archanum was protecting, or if they were destroyed by their fight.
With the end of the war and the death of King Darius, a shift was also needed in the Mage's guild. Most of the mages reverted back to a status of protector of knowledge, deeply ashamed and inspired by the conflict on Frost Gale and the lives and knowledge that was lost. Some of the ones that were more loyal to King Darius and vocal about their superiority disappeared under mysterious circumstances. The Fighter's Guild expressed their will of dismantling the Mage's Guild, but their plea went unheard.
Since then, the leadership of the Mage's Guild always fell under malleable, moderate hands, always in tune with the Crown's need - in exchange, the Crown would always give money and procure young new mages for the guild. With the thirsty for power and supporters of the late king gone, the guild assumed a much more academic approach to magic, turning away from the political intrigues and focusing on preserving, restoring and recuperating information and knowledge for the future generations.
The Mages, being much more individualists than the members of the Fighter's Guild, make up for a more dispersed group - it is often said that to put mages to work together is akin to herding cats. They rarely ever have the same sense of brotherhood of their fighter's counterparts, which leaves them prone to the manipulation of the Crown and of the Golden Consortium.
However, it is said that recent leaderships of the Mage's Guild have taken a great interest in standing up for themselves, instead of leaning on the Crown. A strong hand may band the mages together once again to have them become more than mere puppets of the nobility...
The Golden ConsortiumThe most calamitous chapter of Charon's history, The Collapse, was responsible for the breakdown of many organizations, structures and ancient orders that had flourished the eras prior to the war with the Gods. And curiously, amongst mayhem and chaos, a dubious organization was able to take root.
During times of strife and war, an alchemist known as Nikolay Flameweaver made his name known by helping those in need of healing with his potions. And when his name rose amongst people trying to find refugee and healing, it was bound for him to attract the wrong kind of attention: a sun elf named Nethelas Smoothsail saw the opportunity to put a spin to her business that would make her succeed where other have failed.
Behind the curtains, the spice merchant turned her attention to more profitable sources of revenue during times of war: weapons, both made of steal or chemicals. While still keeping her spice trading on the forefront of her business, Nethelas managed to unite several small blacksmithing organizations that had been popping up during such chaotic and trying times, supplying them with the resources and protection they needed. At the same time, she also stroke an alliance with Nikolay, funding him and the small sect of alchemists that had followed into his footsteps.
There was, however, always a lot of strife between Nethelas and Nikolay's right hand, a great alchemist on his own right and dashing adventurer, Gabriel Silverleaf. Gabriel was a generous soul and daring explorer, always wanting to research potions and discover new ingredients that would benefit mankind. Gabriel wanted to have a more charitable approach to the guild, giving potions away for free for those in need and living off of donations, which clashed with Nethela's point of view. There came a time when Gabriel went on a journey to find an Origin Matter that was supposedly around since the beginning of the universe - only to never come back. Being her strongest opposition among the alchemists, with him gone, Nethelas had an open path to do as she saw fit.
It is still unknown how many conflicts and wars Nethelas and her offspring after her were able to maneuver by changing the supply of arms, armor and potions to the warring factions - nor how much influence the Smoothsail family truly had or have. Officially, the formalization of the Alchemists Guild under the name of The Golden Consortium happened during the rule of King Davian, but it was during King Darius' rule that another side of the guild became known. As the cruel king plotted to divide the elven families, poison became one more weapon at his disposal. The research on the matter was, curiously, very advanced even before the King turned his attention to it...
The Golden Consortium's loyalties were always foggy for one who's paying attention: while at the surface level they were always in tune with the needs of the Crown and the people, trying to fit into the role of "intermediators", in truth it has always been a self serving entity. Always on friendly - enough - terms with both the Fighters and Mages guild, for the longest of times the Golden Consortium had managed to hold them both "hostages" to some extent. The Fighters guild was provided with armaments, and the Mages Guild with reagents.
It is thought that the inner conflict between the mages of both The Archanum and present Mage's Guild was instigated by the Golden Consortium; at the same time, some whisper about the insurgent Fighter rebels being armed by it, under the table. None of the other guilds truly trust the higher rank members of the Golden Consortium, but it has been proven hard to break from their influence. And since this distrust hasn't yet turned to hatred, the Golden Consortium still stands...
Unlike the other guilds, The Golden Consortium has kept their positions of power based on birth, rather than merit. Since the union of Nethelas' son with Nikolay' daughter, it has become tradition to train at least one successor to take up the mantle of leader of the guild. To this day, the Golden Consortium keeps a docile enough façade, welcoming researchers and alchemists and inventors under the pretense of "expanding horizons". A disturbing event during recent years had sent the guild into a quiet, subdued silence: just as Charon was starting to recover from the Elven Wars, a mysterious illness fell upon its people, noblemen and common folk alike. When the Consortium quickly whipped up a supposed cure for the illness, even the Crown started to suspect.
Other than that, recent years have found the Golden Consortium to have ties with some groups of spies, though it has been impossible to prove it. Some say this has been happening since the conceptualization of the organization, back to Nethelas' business. It is thought the guild had been twisting and turning the way information is carried out and how it reaches the ears of the common people, but it is fairly hard to trace it back to the head of the guild.
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