A Wayward Sapling

[Burnsider 4543]

A Wayward Sapling

 

The grizzled man stood on the deck of the ship as it pulled into port on the southern continent of Almaris. His hand scratched the blonde stubble on his face as his armored duster fluttered in the breeze, mail and bits of plate jingling as it did so. The smell of the southern continent hit his nose and he was hit with a wave of nostalgia.

 

Kris had applied for schooling at the Citadel of Hexenstadt when he was but a teen. He was on his pilgrimage from the family homestead to the city of Lurin to visit the citadel when he had been waylaid by a group of scalawags, who had shanghaied him into their service.

 

[!] A dramatic recreation of the gallant fight between Kris and his abductors

 

Kris had survived at sea with the pirates, though he wouldn't have called it much more than that. Cabin boys on a pirate crew weren't treated very well. But, to survive was enough for the young lad and eventually the crew found itself in Aeldin where it disbanded, their pockets full of riches and booty. And most certainly not because they were tracked down by frigates of the Aeldenic Empire and thrown in jail. Most certainly not.

 

[!] Kris, enjoying his life of luxury in Aeldin

 

But the time in Aeldin was good for Kris, as his life of luxury (remember, not his life behind bars) gave him a chance to rewrite his moral code, casting off the shackles of piracy although still embracing the freedom of life it provided. After a few years, he rode south, learning to live in the plains of deserts of southern Aeldin, living life mainly as a crossbowman for hire. He teamed up with six other men in that time, fighting against various bandit groups that threatened the smaller towns in that area. A few Oyashimen that met with him called him a 'ronin,' and it fit as well as any other moniker.

 

[!] A magnificent rendering of Kris and his six companions.

 

But, home called, and news from it as well. And so, he said goodbye to his companions and caught a merchant ship on its way back to Almaris. It had been over 15 years since he had seen his homeland, but he was ready now to return.

 

Kristofer Adrian Darkwood set foot on the dock and made his way to the local stable to procure a ride, thinking on the news he had received. "Oh, Theodetta, what in GOD's name have you done?"

 

[Based1Salmon 263]

The Viscountess of Darkwood recieves news of her brother and heirs return and sends him a bottle of wine, but notably does not leave her tower to go greet him

[tadabug2000 3515]

The Countess of Aquilae, Johanne Vuiller soon learns of her sons return. A genuine smile, one so rarely seen as of late for the Countess forms. To have one of her children back, GOD has answered her prayers.