Gathius di Silvari 73 Share Posted December 16, 2013 Our immense congratulations to the pairing of one Lucia di Silvari and Relenkai Bedevere, officiated by the Bishop Rellin. Their love and their union is a single ray of light in this dark, grim reality we find ourselves in this day and age. However, this marriage is far more than a simple joining of man and woman. This is far more than an alliance of houses through their dear sons and daughters. On this day, this marriage will do far more. It shall unite the minds, the hearts, and the culture of peoples for an eternity. It shall begin the tale of two families that shall be united with word, oath, and blood such that their souls and their beings are intertwined and their respective cultures, di Silvari, Bedevere, Auvergnian, and Salvian merged into a conglomerate. With the creator as our witness, today the families and the peoples of di Silvari and Bedevere shall be completely and utterly merged in an equal fashion from the oldest living generation that walks Anthos today and onwards until death do us part and time swallows all mention of our name. Here and hence forth di Silvari and Bedevere shall be known as de Silvarois, and by the traditions of each house and the word of their patriarchs and leading man and women conjoined, and all members of each family here and hence forth commanded to take up this name and these words and these images as their own lest face banishment and an abolition of name and all rank and respect within their family. De Silvarois "Always Regal." Definition of Culture It is evident that to get two distinct families to accept a single culture in their present generation is an impossibility. Though attempts may be made this is not a n overnight switch of culture but an attempt to merge two peoples for benefit of a peoples in generations to come, inevitably two distinct branches, distinct peoples slowly being brought into one over the years based on a common goal and a common love. A part of de Silvarois culture is one shared by a greater group of people and though they do not follow them to the letter they make up a portion. The de Silvarois culture is a joining of both the Auvergnian culture and Salvian culture in a sense. The Auvergnian language can be described wholly as a copy of the real life French language. Common will remain the main language of both the family and anyone under them, but Auvergnian will be the language of the educated, the nobles, the scholars taking a similar stance as Latin in the real world. It shall be the gold standard in the written and spoken language in de Silvarois eyes. Both families come from lines of wine entrepreneurs making it the favored drink and a favored product to brew. Their love of and knowledge of food is evident as well. They adhere to Salvian and Auvergnian holidays and traditions to a sense, but not an extreme sense. At its foundation it is a clash of the hardworking, freeliving people of Salvus and Bedevere with a rigid, set in their ways di Silvari, bonded by a love for the people and an old loyalty to Salvus. More so than the Salvian and Auvergnian cultures is the house cultures. And overwhelming concept in di Silvari culture and a moderately accepted one in Bedevere culture is the idea that blood is essential in all things. As it courses through arteries and veins, sustaining all life it represents your life, your own self. You cannot make a decision concerning your life, concerning anything of importance, if you are unwilling to give up a part of your blood, your life. An oath made by word is rarely broken and an oath made by blood is unbreakable. That said the same expectance of blood oaths does not extend past the family as it is a difficult thing to ask of the populace. However, there will always be a degree of mistrust of an individual not bounded in a blood oath. To be labelled an oathbreaker is a crime within the family above all other, even kinslaying. Honor and honor in your oaths is valued highly. The family is to a degree elitist, pure of blood, pure of mind, pure of body. Though they are generally favorable to the common man unlike many nobles and higher ups, but to accept them into the family is another manner entirely. They are very selective of mates and judgmental of their kin. The information in this thread cannot hope to identify the entirety of the family, but it gives a basis. Truly, the family will never be understood and its depth understood expect from personal interaction. Concluding the thread is ultimately a work in progress and a temporary one. The true intertwining of di Silvari and Bedevere has yet to fully take hold. Lands Salvian Territories under the Kingdom of Oren – Relenkai de Silvarois and Lucia de Silvarois Barony of Wallport under the Kingdom of Herendul – Gathius de Silvarois Family Tree Pending Additions to the Family The family does not accept applications or anything of that sort. Certainly if you are interested in joining the family then contact us, but we accept based on rp merit and worth. To better understand the whole you must understand the pieces. di Silvari House di Silvari "Venom comes in many forms." Lands Currently: Barony of Wallport in The Kingdom of Herendul in the Lands of Anthos Formerly: Barony of Silvaria in The Holy Empire of Oren in the Lands of Elysium Liege Lords Formerly: Grand Justice Alianor Geminine of The Holy Empire of Oren in the Lands of Elysium Currently: King Edward Winter II of The Kingdom of Herendul in the Lands of Anthos Banner Houses None Personal House Guard, The Gendarmerie The idea of the Gendarmerie stems from the di Silvari family being a family of merchants for the majority of their existence and at time a unified company, a company that would make use of private security forces. That is precisely what the Gendarmerie is, a force of elite, professional soldiers that serve as a bodyguard force for the di Silvari family and solely the di Silvari family, guards for all operations of the di Silvari including but not limited to mercantilism, and serve as a personal police force for internal di Silvari affairs. Akin to private company security forces not being called to fight for a nation’s army, the Gerdarmerie is not a banner force nor under the military of any nation. They shall not take orders from any military leader that is not a di Silvari even if death is threatened. Often times a Gendarme is partial to a certain di Silvari normally those that witnessed their initiation ceremony and oath as internal family disputes are not an uncommon occurrence. Regardless, a Gendarme makes an oath not to any one person but to the di Sivari family as a whole, to strike or draw arms on a di Silvari family member without permission is forbidden, a breach of oath. To breach an oath is most likely synonymous with death or cruel and unusual punishment. In swearing fealty to di Silvari, they swear to uphold the traditions of the house and to bring no shame to said house. A Gendarme’s whole identity and honor should be centered around the di Silvari family. Notable Items and Heirlooms The heirlooms of the di Silvari family are a quite extensive list, the shear wealth of the family over the years and their desire for material things and complex traditions have made sure of this. Few are well known and well keep up with in the di Silvari family. Many are quite possibly lost to time or lost in the tombs of fallen di Silvari and many more still are destroyed. The list is not complete, but these are specifically well developed items. The Patriarchal Dagger The Patriarchal dagger is quite possibly one of the most valuable objects in the di Silvari family. It is the dagger held by the head of the family and a symbol of this position, surviving for approximately 300 years, never lost, never stolen, first crafted for Charles di Silvari. If the dagger was ever lost it would be a devastating blow to the di Silvari family and the person responsible for it would surely be expelled from the family and hunted until death, his line slaughtered with him. The holder of the item is not automatically the head of the family but the head of the family should wield this dagger. It serves all the same purposes of the silver dagger as well as being used in patriarchal specific ceremonies such as the stripping of a di Silvari’s name. The dagger is made of pure gold and sharpened to a deadly point. Despite its age it looks as it did the day it was made, well taken care of, polished to a shine. Along with being golden the dagger is very ornate accompanied by a sheath of gold, red velvet, and rubies. The handle takes the shape of two scorpions, their tails the cross guard. Clutched in their pinchers is a kingly ruby. Other gems of various types encrust the handle periodically. A script in the Auvergian language is etched into the blade “Venom prend de nombreuses formes,” translated it says, “Venom comes in many forms.” Silver Daggers The Silver Daggers of the di Silvari are significant proof of a di Silvari’s legitimacy. They are ceremonial daggers used in all of the rituals the di Silvari hold sacred, usually used to draw blood. They are gifted to every di Silvari male as soon as they are deemed able to properly keep it safe. Commonly referred to in the family as one’s Honor. A di Silvari cannot truly be whole without his dagger and it severely hampers his ability to perform rites. The daggers are all forged by a Renowned Smith preferably a close family friend or even a family member. Gathius has forged all of the most recent generation’s daggers. The blade of the dagger is quite simple, long, silver, and an edge sharpened to an extreme degree. The handle is made up of a red wood and as the dagger ages slowly is coated redder and redder as flesh blood flows over it. The handle is carved very intricately. Symbols and designs indicative of di Silvari traditions and stories. There is a very subtle difference in each handle that can only be deciphered by di Silvari, and it very plainly lays out the owner of the blade. A blade is not to be destroyed and is never reforged. Upon, the owner’s death the blade is either melted down or buried with the owner and are unsuitable for their initial purpose. The Texts Though there are few that value riches above the di Silvari, the most valuable thing to the di Silvari is no gem or jewel, gold or silver, but what they call the Texts. The Texts are not a single volume, not a single book but a vast collection of writings passed down by many di Silvari over many decades, books, poems, songs, diary entries. A collection entailing in them not only the wisdom of the di Silvari ancestors by a catalog of all their histories and traditions. The texts are rarely spoke of in public and kept in hiding places away from even a few di Silvari, spoke of with whispers and code even within protected halls. Though all di Silvaris read from the Texts a considerable amount, Gathius and Adam are the only di Silvari alive that have read them in their entirety and their true form. Templier Whispered among the di Silvari and their sworn servants, is the existence of a book referred to only as, Templier. It is unknown what is written therein. The book itself is made of high quality paper, bound with thick red leather. Jeremiah’s Sword: Lame Encarmine Jeremiah di Silvari’s sword was a longsword of unique quality. A sword meant to instill in the minds of the one being attacked that their demise was imminent. The entire sword was in the shape of an elongated cross pattee The cross guard was steel, polished to a silvery shine and engraved with a red rose akin to Jeremiah, the Jeremiah rose. It had two cross pattee feet, one on either side, and the pommel was a matching pattee foot. The scabbard was steel polished to a shine and ending in a polished steel pattee foot. The handle was also steel polished to a shine. Combined with the scabbard, the sword could easily pass for a steel cross with the fanned edges of a pattee. The blacksmith responsible for it was never made clear though it was likely a Dwarf of expert ability and not Gathius. Jeremiah carried it with him always and it rests with his body. Silverdraike This sword was made on Lucius di Silvari’s request by Gathius. Though Gathius was not too appeased with its design it still remains as one of his superior works. It is a blade crafted from steel folded in on itself in a way to produce bands of ferrite and cementite giving it its wavelike appearance and creating unique strength. Gathius called it wave steel though Damascus is the proper real world term. The sword is a thin sabre akin to a mameluke sword with a handle of polish bone and inlayed with gold. Gathius’ Axe Gathius di Silvari’s Axe has never warranted any special treatment or praise nor name. However, it was the last work that Gathius completed while he still lived with the Dwarves. Though he was still young in his craft his foster father, a Dwarf of great smithing ability, oversaw it and it remains as one of his best works if not the work he put the most heart into. Indeed, he still carries it to this day and it is hard to imagine anyone being about to wield it in his stead. The axe is large, wielded with two hands though it is not impossible for Gathius to semi-effectively wield it with one. The axe blade is hard steel polished so that it gleams in the light of the sun or moon. Dwarvenesque carvings and runes cover it. It has seen Gathius’ entire adult life and the blood of hundreds, creature and person alike. Charles’ Violin This was a violin of superb quality made of various types of black wood and outlined in gold. It was made for Charles, the first di Silvari and one of the greatest violinist the family had ever known. It was rescued from Gathius seeking to use it for firewood by Mia and gifted to Lucius. Lucius almost went mad with it in his possession spending three days without sleep or food to repair it to working condition. The sound was divine, but Lucius seemed to strain in playing it almost as if he could not match the quality of the instrument with his own skill. In the end of the day, most of the family did not like the sound, it felt as if something was always off about the violin. Rumors even floated about it possibly being possessed, Lucius certainly seemed to change in its presence. Mia rescued Lucius by pushing the violin off a tower reducing it to splinters. Preferring his old self and his old violin. The Charles Jewels Charles, the first of the di Silvari, with his riches had many a fantastic thing made or bought. Though Charles initially had the jewelry made for him and his wife to wear, upon his death they entered the family. Since they have become a strong symbol in the di Silvari family. The jewels are sometimes handed out to very prestigious di Silvari, often di Silvari different from the Patriarch and not always married. These are known as the most distinguished male and most honoured female. The male set is made up of two bracelets, a necklace, and a signet ring, golden and inlayed with blue topazes. The signet ring has a large scorpion seal on it with a blue topaz set deep into the ring between the scorpion’s pinchers. The jewels are richly engraved with scorpionesque figurines common place but not dominating. The female set is made up of a set of earrings, a ring, and a necklace. These are also golden but inlayed with yellow topazes. Same style as the male set but the ring is not a signet ring. The jewels are a great honor, too great an honor to refuse, and a great burden. In truth, to lose even a single item of the sets is grounds to be stricken from the family di Silvari forever. It is not uncommon for this tactic to be attempted as well. However, no di Silvari has ever lost one of the Jewels in the past, or let anyone know they had ever left their sight atleast. Any di Silvari male can nominate any di Silvari female and vice versa. However, the Patriarch or the Patriarch’s wife cannot nominate each other or any of their children. The nominee is chosen by the greater whole of the di Silvari family. Members Will Soon be edited - Not complete. Charles di Silvari, the Father Patriarch ((Unplayed)) Deceased, The first di Silvari. A man of once insurmountable wealth. Known to lead a secretive and often rumor filled life. Writer of the basis of di Silvari traditions. Adam di Silvari, Shiftcloak ((Semperosa)) Deceased, Former Patriarch of the di Silvari family. Renowned in politics and intrigue. Co-owner of di Silvari and Co. Gathius di Silvari, Dwarf Friend ((Gath_Stormer)) Alive, Current Patriarch of the di Silvari family. Renowned for his wisdom, martial prowess, and smithing ability. Lord of Wallport. Co-owner of di Silvari and Co. Son of Larissa di Silvari and Stefan di Silvari. Lucius di Silvari, Beast Friend ((Megazero34)) Alive, Nephew of Adam di Silvari. Renowned for being one with the Wilds, a great tamer of beasts and a pureblood Dalmatian breeder without equal. Son of Jimmy di Silvari and Megan di Silvari. Ser Jeremiah di Silvari, the Pure, Knight-Captain of the Dragon Guard ((Megazero34)) Deceased, Known for being the best fighter the di Silvari has ever produced, legendary in his own right. Charlotte di Silvari, the Impure ((Megazero34)) Alive, Daughter of Jeremiah di Silvari. Mia di Silvari ((Gath_Stormer)) Alive, Daughter of Gathius di Silvari and Mia di Silvari. Heir to Wallport. Lucia di Silvari ((Zanderaw)) Alive, Twin sister to Lucius di Silvari. Son of Jimmy di Silvari and Megan di Silvari. Christion di Silvari ((Semperosa)) Alive, Younger brother to Lucius di Silvari. Son of Jimmy di Silvari and Megan di Silvari. Geraud di Silvari (Unplayed)) Alive, Younger brother to Lucius di Silvari. Son of Jimmy di Silvari and Megan di Silvari. Jimmy di Silvari ((Gath_Stormer)) Deceased – Suicide, Father of Lucius di Silvari, Known for being maimed by Adam di Silvari in the marriage ceremony and actively refusing to adhere to di Silvari traditions. Thief of the Silver Daggers of Lucius, Javier, and Geraud. Known as a violinist of great skill. Traditions and Culture Unfinished The di Silvari have a long history, and a plethora of secretive and eccentric family members that have reigned throughout those years. Complex, unorthodox traditions stem from that. Traditions sometimes as secretive as they are complex and unorthodox. Regardless of the tradition, the most common element is the sanctity of blood and the idea that blood is essential in all things. As it courses through arteries and veins, sustaining all life it represents your life, your own self. You cannot make a decision concerning your life, concerning anything of importance, if you are unwilling to give up your blood. This simple fact is the cornerstone of the di Silvari culture. PS: The copy paste formatting sucks on this forum. Gold. What is it about this metal, soft, weak, able to bend at the slightest working? What is it about this unessential, worthless metal that makes it so vital, so full of worth? The di Silvari do not know. However, the simple fact remains that all races seem to crave this metal with an unimaginable zeal. Nothing else can move mountains like gold, bring men to action, or manipulate the mind like gold. It is this simple fact and realization that leads the di Silvari to crave it as well, carve it in such a manner as it almost seems ingrained in their very being from birth. This makes up another foundation for all that di Silvari are. With the ideals of blood and gold set aside there are those that are secondary. Among them is honor. An oath made by word is rarely broken and an oath made by blood is unbreakable. To be labelled an oathbreaker is a crime within the family above all others, even kinslaying. They have a strong sense of meeting a foe face to face even if they are stabbing them in the back. House History (Long Open at Own Risk) The di Silvari history has been written over many months with different frames of mind and states of consciousness and rushed at points. It is mostly written by Gath_Stormer with additions from Megazero34 and Semperosa. It is generally finished and coherent and accurate but consistent coherentness, accuracy, and correct grammar is not guaranteed. The beginning was also written when di Silvari was known as de Valletta and that can get confusing at points. I doubt a severe rewriting will happen though. The brief name change is sketchy, but it’s workable. It is possible that something can change at a later date, but it will generally stay the same. Enjoy. Family di Silvari The story of the Valletta is an interesting one, one that ultimately begins with the family di Silvari. The di Silvari have existed in one form or another for generations. They are a unique bunch and there are many characteristics that set than apart from their kin to some extents. They are predominately Northerners, quite possibly and most likely of Auvergnian descent, with a tendency to emulate Auvergians in many aspects of life, long time inhabitants of Solace and Salvus lands though their ways and travels have lead them to most corners of the world in both extended and short term stays. On top of that, they have certain dominate physical features. To see a di Silvari without their trademark pale skin, blue eyes, and blonde hair is a rarity. It tends to run strong in their family and is even a favored trait among mates, who by the way are picked with the utmost scrutiny. In truth, the only blood di Silvaris known to have ever had brown hair or brown eyes are Gathius and his brother Jack. It is a trait very favored among the di Silvari kin and they often look unfavorably among those within their family that differ. Finally, almost as if it is ingrained in every shred of their being and blood the di Silvari have a love of money, a quick mind, and a natural knack for economics. The di Silvari have served as merchants, business men, craftsmen, stewards, and the occasional con man and scam artist almost exclusively. Another common sight in the di Silvari family is children. Perhaps their ancestors were blessed by the creator in ancient times. Perhaps they have an extra potent seed, or simply thoroughly enjoy the act, but di Silvari have large families. The di Silvari are heavily male dominant. The females they have are often times married off to further the family or given rather lowly jobs. They are led by a patriarchy and often times the family head is made up of a patriarch or a pair of patriarchs, sometimes a council of elder males rule over them. The current patriarch is an Adam Valletta and in some cases Gathius Valletta is considered. Ancestors It is relatively unknown the precise and complete leniency of the di Silvari family. The surviving members of the family can only trace themselves definitively back to one man, Charles di Silvari. Perhaps he broke off from a yet larger and older family or perhaps he woke up one morning and made up a name. It is unclear. However, it is from this one man that the known members of the family are descendent. The years to come from Charles’ life and the life of his sons and their sons, were not immensely prestigious. They lived their lives. Many were merchants, travelling merchants, business men, and stewards for nobility. Wars were fought, won and lost. Some di Silvari gained a name for themselves whereas others were lost to time. Fortunes were made; fortunes were lost and squandered away. They were usually loyal subjects and did much for the lands they lived it. In truth, it was not until the birth and life of an Adam Valletta and a Gathius Valletta then di Silvari when the family truly began to come alive. A Match Made in Heaven and di Silvari Co. It was pure chance that the two cousins of di Silvari, Adam and Gathius, met amidst a dwarven and human war. The war was short and they played little role in it but nonetheless they met. These two cousins decided to join forces. They had dreams and ambitions and they would see them through. The years that followed would further confirm that little could get in their way. It was beneath the keep Ceru where the humble beginnings of company di Silvari began, co-founded by the cousins. The months and years that followed showed the exponential growth of the company. They reached into every aspect of commerce. Shops were founded. Inns and taverns were owned. Trades were made. That coupled with a very lucrative bandage trade allowed the di Silvari fortunes to soar. They even for a time ran a newspaper in telling the events of the whole of Asulon. Times were good. It was after a series of natural disasters that the family lost their entire fortune and indeed the lands they had come to love and to live in. The Best Times and the Worse Times The cousins found themselves on a foreign land with rags for clothing and miles between them. They travelled the lands, exploring, thinking of how they might rebuild. It was by pure chance that Gathius found an old friend, a Baron Winter. At that moment an imperial prince also visited. It was then that he had a thought. Was his family not as loyal as any other? Did he not aid the people as much as any other? Was his family not just or brave? Was it not as prestigious as any other? His family had the characteristics of a noble family if not more. In truth, it likely did. It was a shot in the dark as he asked the prince about the process. With the recommendation of his friend, he was shown by the prince himself to the Grand Chancellor. He explained himself, his deeds. After some discussion, he swore an oath to god, country, emperor, and the Grand Justice Geminine as a Baron. At the behest of his lord, Geminine, land was taken and became Barony Silvaria. It grew and along with it, its populous grew. Adam was eventually found and made steward of this Barony. Times were good. It was with a small series of events that things began to spiral out of control and doom began to creep around the corner. First, a cousin was found. Sorenus di Silvari was a ***** one. A semi successful merchant, Sorenus happened upon them by chance like many lost relatives do. Sorenus seemed a bit too happy when he was found and he realized he was a part of a noble family all of a sudden. In the cousin’s opinion, the status quickly went to his head. He began to think himself above others. By God, he was a noble and the world should bow to him, especially the peasants. Thinking himself above others was resentful though it was arguably his right and the cousins did not look into it with more than minor annoyance. However, when he began to think himself so above others, others that generally were not all that inferior and in many cases significantly superior, the cousins knew that could not last. As if to add insult to injury, Sorenus was neither especially great in commerce despite his lineage nor great in combat. They tried everything to make him into a man worthy of not only his family name but of the right of nobility. The weeks and months drew on and things only seemed to get worse. Sorenus was utterly incompetent and a person that even the kindest individual found hard to like. As the problems with Sorenus began to boil over Adam as patriarch of the family and Gathius saw that Sorenus would only lead di Silvari to demise. His case was hopeless. He was thus stripped of his name, the first and only di Silvari to have that done to him. In anger, the cousins erected a cross and etched into it was the word Betrayal, as they felt they were betrayed. It was something they would likely have taken down that night if they had gotten the chance. It did not take long for Sorenus to bite back. Whether Sorenus knew it or not he would be the demise of the di Silvari family. It was a fine evening with the smell of a fresh laden rain. Gathius di Silvari looked out from the keep’s window to an unexpected sight. The armies of the White Rose marched with siege engine and cold steel in tow. Gathius was unaware of why they came but as they approached he could see the look of hatred in their eyes and he knew the end was nigh. The populous of Barony Silvaria fled into tunnels made under Silvaria for escape in the event of war, this included Adam di Silvari. Gathius came to the front gates to meet this army with only suspicions of what might transpire next. Gathius di Silvari would never be able to recall the events of that night. All he knows is what little he could gather from the accounts of witnesses, namely his cousin. He was arrested and carried off in binds. He later returned to the Barony Silvaria bleeding from many wounds. Unable to talk he was able to claw into the dirt a last thought before he was hoisted up to the cross he and his cousin erected but earlier that day and there he was bound. The cross was lit ablaze and his ashes were sent to the heavens. It had turned out that some act of treason committed by Sorenus, the defiling of the name of the emperor and his nobles, had led to outlawing of the entirety of the di Silvari family. Gathius’ last thought clawed into the ground beneath the cross? The word betrayal was written. It seemed as if the world was not quite done with Gathius though. Adam, Silvaria’s people, di Silvari’s guard, and their captain were all shattered across Elysium. Gathius di Silvari awoke in monk’s tent. His mind and his body were shattered. He gathered every ounce of strength he could muster and staggered out of the tent. He would wander Elysium for over a month in this deplorable condition. Memories were lost to him only to come flooding back in an instant. It was like he had to learn how live all over again, learn to speak, walk, and eat. Due to the kindness of strangers he managed to survive. He soon gathered his ability to command his body and thoughts once more. It was not without consequences though. There remained holes his mind, particularly the events surrounding the events the time he was burned on the cross. These thought were replaced only with void and pain. He awoke many nights screaming from nightmares. His leg never quite recovered and it is not uncommon to see him depend on a staff created for him by a druid to walk. When he became moderately able once more he was able to wander. He saw more of the world in that time as any other. He visited his old home with the Dwarfs. He saw elves, various human factions both within Oren and without. It took quite a while but he eventually found his cousin, Adam who until this point had been doing a bit of wandering himself and plotting in his clever way of plotting. He took up an identity as a Mr. Sterling Silver and lived relatively outside of the patrols of Oren as his family was still wanted. (De) Valletta It did not take long for the cousins to think about the wrongs that had been committed against them, the unwarranted wrongs. The di Silvari were better than this though and in time they would overcome it. Adam particularly believed this. There came a time where he was utterly frustrated. If he was to live as a wrongly accused outlaw then he did not want to live at all. It was a fit of bravery when Adam, unknown to Gathius, marched right into the heart of the Oren that hunted them. He came to the Emperor and pleaded their case and told him of the plight of the di Silvari. It was in the Emperor’s boundless wisdom that he decided the di Silvari were not guilty of what they were accused. They were not traitors of the highest degree. It was at that time that the di Silvari family was returned their honors, their titles, and their land, mere weeks before the ships would leave for the new lands of Anthos. Land was even promised in these new lands. The cousins two were overjoyed. They would no longer need to hide from injustice. However, they felt that the name di Silvari carried with it strong negative connotation. It was with much regret that they decided it should be changed. With the power in him them as Patriarch and Baron they changed the name di Silvari into (De) Valletta. Adam di Silvari and Gatihus di Silvari became Adam (De) Valletta and Gathius (De) Valletta. Every new di Silvari found would be expected to accept such a name. It is with this new name and these new ambitions that the (De) Valletta would make their way to the new lands and set about renewing their fortune. A New Land and a Hopefully Brighter Future It is now on those new lands of Anthos where the story reaches a chapter. Gathius wandered the wilds for many months reflected on himself and his faith, becoming closer to the world around him. Adam found a wife in Elysium. No child was born that was known of and Adam claims to have never even lain with the woman. Unfortunately it did not take long for his wife to go missing, much to his sorrow and strangely somewhat relief. Adam took up a vow of chastity after that occurrence. Gathius, ultimately very awkward with ladies and people in general, even found love of his own. She gave him a daughter. It did not last long though. An encounter with brigands in the wilderness spelled the end of his wife only a few days after the baby was properly winged. He has now come from the wilderness to continue his life and raise his child. This daughter named Mia (De) Valletta now finds herself likely as the only heir to a family whose ambition and greed will threaten to overwhelm their virtues and either propel them to great heights or spell their doom. The Rise and Fall of Jeremiah It was a grim day when Jeremiah first found the cousins. His claims to the family name were shaky at best, but they were soon confirmed. Jeremiah came from the du Draike family that once was a part of the greater whole of the di Silvari family. His father had tried to cut ties with it and begin a family anew. Much to his dismay Jeremiah wished differently. Jeremiah longed for his family once more and it did not take long before he agreed to take up the family name and rejoin it once more and become Jeremiah (De) Valletta. Jeremiah was a di Silvari like none other and by that he hardly seemed di Silvari at all, a warrior and swordsman the likes of which one does not see but a few times in an age. Jeremiah was peerless in the art of swordsmanship, treating sword as shield as more than a part of his body, but a part of his very being, part of his very soul. His single-minded dedication to protecting the lesser lent an almost otherworldly strategem. He was a match on the battlefield of any of the great warriors of the time at his peak and this was proven on many an occasion. Jeremiah was one of the only militarily minded di Silvari and was the only one within the family that could best Gathius in a fight. It would not be known by the family for many years where such strength came from, until a young Lucius di Silvari discovered a book penned in Jeremiah's own hand. This book, contained the art of Templier, the secret to his success, although the origins of this art is unknown. This book, is a jealously guarded secret, insomuch that only three members of the family know of its existence. It is unclear why he believed so much in a family that was drastically different then himself. Nonetheless, he did and the family was bettered for it. It was not without conflict though. He disagreed with Gathius and Adam on many an occasion and such disagreements normally came to blows. It was not long before he almost despised Gathius and Adam. Though, while Gathius and Adam were off doing their plots and their trades he was doing his own thing. Jeremiah met and fell in love with a blind elven girl and married her. For what reason only he knows, the relationship always seemed odd to the other family members. Perhaps, it was not his choice. Also, while the cousins were out digging a bigger pit for themselves to fall into Jeremiah was out training, doing good, finding friends, and fighting. He was for a brief time the Marshal of a guild under the Church and later the Knight Commander of the Imperial Dragon Guard and befriended two other notable warriors, Vectis Vekon I and Zandros Waveswept. Jeremiah was known as a young man, always young, and that youth would be stripped away from him by an untimely death. The world will never know how great Jeremiah could have been. It was many, many years before the di Silvari family eventually learned the truth of Jeremiah who simply disappeared one day. It was betrayal and unhonorable, cowardly men that took his life. Arhadir Owl and a large number of Lion Knights would end him, Arhadir Owl and the Order of the Lion, all names that would eventually be despised in the di Silvari family, for it was them that brought an end to the legend that was Jeremiah. The Wilds Kingdom While Jeremiah was off largely doing his own thing the two cousins, Adam and Gathius, were attempting to renew the prestige of the (De) Valletta family, di Silvari, family. They went between the lands of Salvus and Oren Proper in an attempt to procure the land that was promised them by the words of the Emperor himself. It proved difficult and all the promises and political workings in the world could not pierce the levels of bureaucracy and the unwillingness of the upper classes. Sour with this, the cousins decided that perhaps it was time to ease away from the Empire for a time. They found their way across the stormy seas to the East and to the untamed Wilds Islands. It did not take long before the gears of ambition and potential began to turn in the Cousin Adam’s head. The Wilds were untamed and sparsely colonized by powerful factions. The nations of the Anthos hardly looked at it, yet alone claimed it. He sought to tame the untamed and carve out a fortune of his own. Gathius as he usually did, played along. There was a time where he even called himself Adam the Conquerer and conquer is what he did, though no blood was shed. He quickly saw that though the Wilds were ripe with the conquerable there were powerful factions in it. He compelled to these powerful factions. The Wilds were without order and order should be brought for the benefit of its people and ultimately for the benefit of themselves. They all may serve their own nation but in the Wilds they ruled the lands they carved out without equal and without superiors. The Wilds were as large as a kingdom and had the natural defense, landmass, and resources to be a place of power in Anthos. The rulers of the Wilds became seven, seven lords, and they vowed to create a kingdom the likes of which had yet to be seen. The Wilds kingdom was short lived though and truly never even formed. Of all the diplomatic and political mind that Adam was, he could not contemplate or adapt to what was about to happen. The nations of Anthos were not receptive to another kingdom and that stifled it from the very beginning. Amidst rumors of dark forces coming to bear and the bickering and indecision of lords, the Wilds Kingdom would fall before it even began. The Oren Empire’s quick and short lived invasion of the Wilds, though it was never directed at the kingdom specifically, would be the final nail in the coffin. It almost seemed as if the Creator himself played a hand in the defeat of the dream. Adam left the fortress Crownguard he had built defeated and depressed. The Rebirth of di Silvari and a Seeking of Solace It was shortly after the Wilds Kingdom that the changing of the dear and ancient name of di Silvari began to weigh heavily on the heart of Gathius. Indeed, everything began to weigh heavily on Gathius’ heart. He had a daughter he had to take care of and all he had offered her thus far was a slain mother and made her stand by his side or rather on his back as he faced greater and greater dangers. He was wary of the life he was living. He made the final steps in rechanging the name back to di Silvari and he left. He travelled, travelled a long time. Taking in the beauty of the world and reestablishing himself with nature. He would raise his daughter, and care for her and solely her until she was old enough to venture out herself. He found himself far to the West amidst the great forests of Malinor and there he made his home. Adam found his own solace. Somehow after a life time of mercantilism and plotting he was tired as well. He settled down in a chateau in the Wilds and lived, even managing to repair yet more holes in the di Silvari family. Jeremiah at this time was not yet dead and spent some time with him and it is in this time that he found a close family member, the closest, a nephew, Lucius. Lucius Megan di Silvari, Adam’s youngest sibling, was married matrilineally at his insistence to a northerner named Jimmy. After some time, when the ships had landed in Anthos, they left for the wilds to build a small farm so they could live away from the politics that so define the bloodlines of di Silvari. Megan would go on to spawn Lucius and Lucia, fraternal twins with Lucius being the elder. Two years after Lucius was born followed Christion, and three years after him was Geraud. When di Silvari escaped from the persecution to the Wilds, their machinations would lead to the discovery of Megan’s farm. It was at this time that Adam began to tempt Lucius away from his family, telling him stories of the power di Silvari once held, and how with his assistance he could hold such power as well. Lucius, emboldened after a few weeks of this, left for Adam’s manse, promising to send for his family as soon as the star of di Silvari rose again, promising them that venom comes in many forms. Lucius would soon be sent back to the mainland to discover the political climate for his uncle, and to ascertain Jeremiah’s whereabouts. His mission, coincided with that of his second cousin’s, Mia di Silvari. The two were soon engaged in di Silvari’s most sacred tradition, one that occurs every reunion, the duel to severe injury. Fortunately for them both, the fight was interrupted before the purebred dalmatians could cause much harm. Two days following, Lucius made a fortuitous acquaintance, and learned news of the upmost anguish. It was Zandros Waveswept, then the second in command of the Salvian Shields. It was from him that Lucius learned that most distressing of news, that Jeremiah di Silvari, was dead. After his uncle, Adam di Silvari, returned to the mainland, Lucius was seldom in the company of his cousins, instead assisting and aiding his Uncle in his endeavors until being sent to assist Gathius and Mia with the Barony of Wallport, among other things that are not yet known. The Return of the di Silvari, the Entry of Mia, and a New Future Gathius raised Mia by himself in the woods until she was 16, raised her on bread and meat and simple foods, hard work, and thousands upon thousands of tales of his life. It is a wonder Mia did not go mad. . . Adam shrugged off 14 years of waiting to reenter the world and begin plotting anew. . . Lucius continued the trade of beast taming still keeping the di Silvari name alive in the minds of the world and making quite the profit, awaiting the return of the cousins. . . Gathius once again longed for civilization. He sent Mia to the city for the first time to find the Lucius he had heard snippets about and to visit the outside world for the first time since her youth. Gathius followed soon after. They were ready to begin their life anew. It did not take long before Gathius saw a familiar sight on the streets, a snowflake on a field of brown. He met the person almost hoping to see the familiar face of his old friend. It was not to be, but it was close. Robert Winter, son of Harold Winter, had heard of Gathius and they became fast friends. Winter had done well for himself becoming the Count of Northal. Gathius was surprised when he was offered a piece of land, Wallport. Though he didn’t show it, he had longed for it for some time, another chance to rule where he had failed before. He accepted reluctantly and the di Silvari moved off to the North, a harsh land of endless blizzards and deadly cold. He began to carve a life out of the land more old of loyalty and a desire for a purpose than want. Soon after Northal became a kingdom, Herendul. It is here the story now rests. . . Bedevere Lands Lands Formerly: The city of Kingston in the Kingdom of Salvus, County of Kingshire in the Kingdom of Salvus Current: The Salvian Territories, The Emperor’s forest in the Salvian Territories Liege Lords Liege Lords Formerly: King James Hightower in the Kingdom of Salvus Current: King Heinrik Carrion I of the Kingdom of Oren Banner Houses Banner Houses Formerly: House Vekon, House Valkrae Current: None House Guard - The Legion of the Cardinal Cross House Guard -The Legion Of The Cardinal Cross- -History- Formed from the ashes of the old Shields of Salvus, the Legion of the Cardinal Cross was created to protect the Salvian people. After the fall of Kingston, it was only through their efforts that many Salvians survived, safe behind the walls of the mighty citadel. But as the kingdom crumbled, the Legion found a new purpose. Today, they serve Renatus, guarding the borders of the ancient kingdom against all would-be invaders. And through their efforts, the old traditions of Salvus are kept alive and well. -Motives and Goals- The Legion holds a military position within the Kingdom of Renatus, assigned to guarding the borders of the majestic kingdom from foreign invaders. They also believe it to be their sacred duty to protect and preserve their mother kingdom, holding the traditions and history of the Salvians as their own, long after the kingdom has ceased to exist. Notable Items/Heirlooms Notable Items/Heirlooms Fortune aside, the Bedevere’s do not hold any ancient artifacts of moderate significance. The only exception to this would be the Salvian Scepter, forged in pure gold for the monarch of Salvus. Ornate and expertly crafted, the scepter is rumored to weigh upwards of 70 pounds, and considered a forged masterpiece. The only other notable item in the family would be ‘The Bed’, a soft bed built for a king, massive in size - It is valued at 10 000 minas. Members Members Percius Bedevere - deceased: The oldest known Bedevere. Worked as a farmer, and a poet in Renatus. Mary Bedevere - deceased: The only elven Bedevere bound by marriage, she was known to be overbearing, and slightly neurotic. His Majesty, King Aron Bedevere of Salvus - presumed deceased: The first Bedevere of nobility, and royalty, son to Mary and Percius. Worked as a farmer in the Kingdom of Salvus, and later went on to claiming a county, and the throne soon after. Reigned for many years as a monarch before his death from an unknown assailant. Undisputedly the most successful in the Bedevere line. His Majesty, King of Salvus, Prince Electorate of the Oren Empire, Count of Kingshire, Lord Chamberlain of Abresi, and Grand Merchant of the Kingdom of Uruguan. Wocket Bedevere - Presumed deceased: The first wife of Aron Bedevere, Wocket was a local merchant in the city of Solace. She was known to be very charitable, and remains one of the most adored of Salvian citizens. She went missing when the boats first docked in Anthos. Mary Bedevere - whereabouts unknown: The first born daughter of Grand Chamberlain Throdo Therving, and second wife of Aron Bedevere, Mary was the mother of the current heir, and Bedevere Dynasty. Disappeared after the assassination of King Aron. Her Majesty, Queen of Salvus, and countess of Kingshire. Syo Bedevere - deceased: The only child of Aron and Wocket, little was known of Syo. She passed of disease in Anthos. Relenkai Bedevere - alive - heir: The heir, and first born son of Mary and Aron. He reigned as King of Salvus for many years before a string of events lead to his disappearance. He would later merge into House di Silvari by marriage to Lucia, and form House de Silvarois. Former King of Salvus and Prince electorate of the Oren Empire. Allison Bedevere - alive: The only daughter of Aron and Mary Bedevere. She is unwed. Leonidas Bedevere - missing: The youngest of Aron and Mary. He vanished upon the return of his elder brother. Alexander Bedevere - alive: The legitimized bastard of Aron Bedevere. He wed, and had two children with Kaila Hightower before their annulment. History History: WIP 3 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
The Templar 195 Share Posted December 16, 2013 Lucius, nods to his new brother-in-law, smiling widely, and raises his silver goblet of perry, "A toast, to a prosperous future!" Charlotte raises her goblet of pear juice with limited understanding of what a toast even is, or what they're doing, "To a prosperous future!" Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Knox213 10 Share Posted December 16, 2013 ((Change the dark blue, it's hard to read)) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gathius di Silvari 73 Author Share Posted December 17, 2013 ((Better?)) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bangi 104 Share Posted December 17, 2013 *Cecily laughs* "De Silarois sounds like Valois, Oui!?" *she seems to be enjoing her new Auvrgenian words far too much.* Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Knox213 10 Share Posted December 17, 2013 ((Better?)) ((Much.)) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
cruzazul 2815 Share Posted December 18, 2013 ((I applaud what I've read. It's great to see the Auvergnians won't die out when I'm gone. Continue it for me lad.)) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gathius di Silvari 73 Author Share Posted December 18, 2013 ((I applaud what I've read. It's great to see the Auvergnians won't die out when I'm gone. Continue it for me lad.)) ((Aye Aye.)) *Cecily laughs* "De Silarois sounds like Valois, Oui!?" *she seems to be enjoing her new Auvrgenian words far too much.* ((That was never quite the intention. It's interesting nonetheless.)) 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
ToenailTickler 290 Share Posted December 19, 2013 Rellin regrets this decision after 3 hours of drinking in abresi Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gathius di Silvari 73 Author Share Posted December 19, 2013 Gathius de Silvarois regrets this decision after 3 hours of drinking in Wallport. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lefty 1696 Share Posted December 19, 2013 Igor regrets this decision after 3 hours of drinking in Kal'Ithrun. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gathius di Silvari 73 Author Share Posted December 21, 2013 ((Bedevere family information added.)) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
steelersfan1221 300 Share Posted December 22, 2013 house guivret 3 lyfe Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Semperosa 12 Share Posted December 22, 2013 (( damn.. I remember being your vassals in Asulon.. #nostalgia Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
lιoɴ 248 Share Posted July 6, 2014 Moved to the Great Library. It shall be sorted into appropriate category shortly. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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