[PK] A Final Adventure

[Deets 682]

A Final Adventure

Spoiler

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_zE5vyfX1M

 

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He had lived many lives Karl thought to himself, many journeys which he’d been honored to partake in and obstacles to overcome. It had been a good life, and most of all it had been his. 

 

Days after his wife’s passing he clambered from bed once the sky had gone dark. As he attached his scabbard to his belt, he could not help but draw the steel it held for a final time: A blade forged by Annette. A shoddy thing, but one made with pure devotion and care. It brought him some comfort for what would come next, for he knew this night would be his last. He would be with her in this world, and in the next. His time had come, and in truth, he found some comfort that it had been Annette who passed first, for the pain it brought was not something he would have ever wished upon her. 

 

As Karl began down the steps of the Rose Tower, he found his mind wandering. He thought back on the many years of his life, and all those who’d been lost. Names of those he considered family and friends echoing throughout his mind as he did this. Gansk, Johanna, Reinhardt, Ves, Viktoriya, these names were burned into Karl’s mind. Above all, in recent days, the death of his beloved wife Annette weighed most heavily upon him.

 

It began so long ago, and was an odyssey in of itself.

 

 

---

 

 

Karl remembered little of where he’d been born. The keep of Hjoldenskarven had lain in ruin for decades, a reminder of a lost past and glory he would never see. His father had made sure of this with his actions. Born into the remnants of the Icathian Company, it was a childhood of tribulations, but one of great adventure.

 

All he had learned of arms, he had learned the hard way. His body bore the burden of these scars proudly. A veteran of a dozen battles, the Waldenian could not have been prouder of this fact. He was born among fortune seekers, adventurers, and those who often found it difficult to remain in one place for a long period of time. Wandering beneath the stars afforded a life that Karl came to miss at times later in life.

 

His life changed one uneventful morning, as the band of Icathian remnants began to pack up camp for the day’s travel through the desert of Southern Almaris. The previous day had been a difficult one, several of their number were slain in an ambush, and spirits were low. The stars had not been kind to those wandering the path below them. They rarely were.

 

“There’s a conflict brewing to the north, lad. Whad’ya say about making some coin, eh? I’ll be heading up, and yer sword would be appreciated.” were the words Karl found himself responding to one morning, uttered by the Old Bear himself, Gansk Lamar. The aged Icathian had always been there for him, a man who by his birth had seen half a century of conflict. Impressive for a man whose profession rarely left men at the age to retire. 

 

“Aye, anything beats the scorching heat.” Karl uttered in agreement, rising to his feet then as he donned his sword belt. His tone seemed excited at the prospect. After all, anything beat another day in the deserts of the south. The latest contract of the company had seen them return to this accursed place, much to his disgust.

 

“Where will we be going, Gansk?” He then inquired, his eyes lifting to meet the aged man’s own. “Ye still got that bar of gold yer pa left ye?” Was the reply. Karl searched his saddlebags in response, finding three bars of aurum, bearing a marking unfamiliar to him at the time, a Reinmaren eagle. 

 

“Reinmar, yer pa and uncles used to be close with them. That Friedrich Barclay fellow, a Duke I think.” Gansk would chuckle. “They’ll need fighting men, they always do.”

 

 

---

 

 

Thus they rode for Reinmar, situated within the sprawling Kingdom of Haense. Arriving in the quaint village of Rozenfeld, the small band of a few dozen men with thick Norlandic accents equipped in mismatched and well-worn plate armor must have been a sight for the residents. 

 

The majority of the men made their way to the Drunken Landser, the tavern of the village, whilst Karl set out to parley with the Duke. When asked for the whereabouts of the Duke, a kindly, but understandably cautious fisherman at the nearby dock pointed up at a nearby hill, atop which sat a large keep. 

 

Riding towards Wilheburg, the seat itself of House Barclay, Karl encountered a man dressed in full plate. Hearing the hooves approach of Karl’s horse, the man turned to face Karl, greeting him with some suspicion. “Hello, do you need something?” The man inquired. Karl noticed the man’s eyes remained on his hands, as if waiting for any indication of threat. 

 

“Aye, looking for Friedrich Barclay.. Is he around? We’re fighting men, looking for work.” He replied, turning to reach a hand into his saddlebags. Lightly the man’s hand went for his blade as Karl did so, albeit this did not bother the young man, who turned back with a bar of gold bearing the Barclay sigil. “Icathians.” He added proudly, not knowing this meant nothing to the man.

 

Although the name meant nothing, the sigil intrigued the man, who released his grip on his longsword, instead approaching to inspect the gold. Karl obliged, tossing the bar to the man. “How’d you come about this?” He questioned, eyes narrowing somewhat as he gazed at Karl. “My father, he and the company were friends of the Duke.” 

 

Reaching a hand out, the man introduced himself “I am Ser Conrad Barclay. Friedrich Barclay is not in charge anymore, Princess Johanna of Sutica is.” Karl nodded in response, his own hand reaching for Conrad’s, “Karl of Hjoldenskarven.” He introduced himself as, reaching back for the gold bar then. 

 

“Come with me, we’ll figure something out.” The knight said, motioning for Karl to follow. He obliged, dismounting his horse and heading into the next chapter of his life. 

 

 

---

 

 

It was there he met her. Seemingly out of an attempt to appease his friends that he’d agreed to meet Annette, having been asked by several residents whether he was married or not. This had been funny to him, at the time he never thought himself capable of doing so. After all, what did he know of this? He was raised among the remnants of mercenaries, embittered and hardened by decades of shame after their exodus. A somber solitude of penance roaming across the lands. 

 

His first meeting with Annette had not started as he had hoped. On the ride into the port village of Rozenfeld, he’d spotted a band of armored riders atop the nearby hillocks just outside the village. Their armor did not possess a design familiar to him, and this was cause for concern in the house guard. Riding into the town, he spotted the duo, Annette von Audrick and her older brother and guardian, Adrian von Audrick.

 

He all but ignored the woman for a moment as he worriedly asked if the duo had seen any further riders. To his relief they had seen none, and that satisfied his curiosity. Dismounting from his horse, Karl first laid eyes upon Annette. She stood much shorter than he, with eyes as bright and blue as the ocean. He would soon find out she had a personality as bright to match. 

 

Karl had then felt something he was unaccustomed to, anxiety. He felt nervous as he laid eyes upon her for the first time. Surprising himself as he’d managed to keep a steady tone to introduce himself, a hand extending towards the woman’s own. 

 

“My name is Karl.” He said, his efforts expended at keeping his voice, and outstretched hand steady. Even such a simple task as an introduction felt as if it was a Herculean task to him at this moment. Worry filled him as questions of doubt ate at him.

 

“I am Annette von Audrick.” She replied with a giggle. Her accent was one of heavy Waldenian influence, the people who inhabited the land which he for now called home. Although of Waldenian origin himself, he knew little of it at this time, though he hoped that this did not bother her, having heard stories of her family. 

 

Within moments, however, his fears were at the back of his mind. The conversation flowed easily thereafter as the two walked together. Annette seemed keen on learning more about him, his past and his family. This was not something he was fond of, though he was truthful about it. He owed her this much at least, and for her part she seemed not to judge, simply happy to listen and reply. 

 

For his part, Karl was taken almost instantly by Annette. She was kind and sweet, and each time her blue eyes met his own cognac hued eyes he felt a rush. Her every action endeared her more to him, the constant sweet giggling to his jokes, the way she rocked on her feet as they spoke, he found it all made him enamored with her. He felt in those moments as if there was so much more to his life that was missing, and that she could be that missing piece.

 

“Where are you from?” Annette asked

 

“I am of Hjoldenskarven, in Norland. Though my family are of Waldenian origins, originally.” He replied, his accent still thick with the influence of his homeland. 

 

“Hjold-..” She tried to repeat the name in reply, falling short of this goal with a laugh. Her face lit up with an apologetic smile as she looked to him once more. “I apologize, it sounds exotic though.” Her tone filled with interest.

 

“Perhaps one day I can show you it, or what’s left of it. An adventure for the two of us.” He offered, his eyes moving to look in the general direction of his birthplace, however many miles away. For a brief moment, his expression dropped. A pensive sadness overtaking him before he returned his attention to her. 

 

“Perhaps, I would like to go on an adventure sometime.” Annette said in agreement. Her visage displayed excitement at the prospect of such a prospect. 

 

 

---

 

 

Cheers filled the Duchy of Reinmar one evening as drinks were passed around. What they were celebrating mattered little to Karl, in truth he’d forgotten the moment two bottles of the Duchess’ whiskey were thrust into his hands by his fellow houseguard, Ser Reinhardt Barclay.

 

Contenting himself with taking large swigs from each bottle, Karl found himself wandering around Wilheburg. Although it was his new home, he realized to some surprise he’d never actually explored the castle’s halls. Scanning about, he found no one present beyond himself, and thus continued to wander.

 

A moment later, shrill laughing and a loud thud echoed through the nearby halls. Finding himself drawn to such, Karl soon found Viktoriya vas Ruthern, and Annette. The latter was sprawled out upon the ground, evidently having just crashed into the wall against which she now sat. Viktoriya, with a look of concern stood above her. “Annie, are you alright?”

 

Annette for her part refused to answer, and simply tried to run further, once more finding herself sprawled upon the ground with a few minor cuts to her legs. Soon thereafter Karl found himself carrying the woman down towards the castle’s kitchen in hopes of finding some ice for her, and bandages. Although not explicitly stated, it was clear that the two women had indulged heavily in the evening’s festivities, with alcohol and more.

 

His own condition was poor, much too poor for the responsibility of caring for another and soon he too found himself falling towards the floor. Sparing Annette the brunt of this, he then found himself on the floor in a daze.

 

Almost instantly, Annette had cried out. “Mein liebe, are you alright?” With clear concern in her tone. These words caused the room to go silent, the trio staring at one another. Although the two had been seeing one another, these words sparked the catalyst for the two to be married in the coming years.

 

Karl had found a home in Rozenfeld, with Annette. And as the years went on, the two found themselves living within many different realms, and to them it mattered not where, so long as they were together. She would come to be the bedrock of his own existence, and he would find he wished it to be no other way. 

 

 

---

 

In the following years the two spent in Reinmar, their little corner of the world bore witness to changes of an enormous scale. It was not long after that the Kingdom of Oren devolved into civil war. Karl cared little, for his own youth had seen he and Gansk among others harrying Orenian patrols. Having befriended the Haeseni prince, Sergei, Karl found himself riding south. As the two neared the city of Vienne, it soon became evident that all was not well. The din of battle echoed throughout the region. Quickly then did Sergei motion towards a small path nearby the walls which afforded the two a view into the chaos. In later years, he did not find himself telling this story often. Though it was one which held onto fondly. 

 

For now, however, little changed. The two found many friends within Rozenfeld, and happy times were found in abundance. The friends he would make in this time came to be the ones he cared for most, and still thought of now more than half a century later. Reinhardt and his eccentricities which had come with a lifetime spent in the field, Frey of Astor and his ways, and own path which was walked in tandem with his own, Conrad and Viktoriya, Johanna, Zyn’ira, and Elias. Each one taught Karl something about himself, and of how to live a life worth the time he had been given. 

 

There was some irony too in that he often found himself giving advice, or acting as a parental figure to the numerous Barclay children who roamed about the duchy, though he never felt truly wise enough to impart wisdom. Of them, a fond smile would always spread across his face as he remembered the childhoods of Wilhelm, Wilheim, and Edith. In time, he found himself promising Johanna that he would keep an eye on the latter two, a favor for her as she found herself increasingly reclusive near the end of her reign. In the end, he did keep that promise he thought to himself. Edith became a Queen, and he followed after her some time later into Aaun. Whereas Wilheim ruled as duke, and became a man in his own right, no longer needing the watchful eye of the aging Waldenian. He knew Johanna would’ve been proud to see how they both turned out, and that he had fulfilled his promise made so long ago. 

 

As the world moved onward over the years, Karl was happy. He had Annette, and that was all he desired. Although their world might have been changing before their very eyes, they would continue to navigate this together, no matter what might come of it. 

 

 

---

 

 

Years later Karl found himself fighting for all he had built in his new home. the Carrion Prince marched on Karosgrad, and the Reinmaren Retinue was called to defend the city in tandem with the other forces of the kingdom. By this point, it had been many years since Karl had come to call Rozenfeld home. The young man had turned into a seasoned man-at-arms and had come to consider its denizens his family. He stood proudly shoulder to shoulder with the elderly Sir Reinhardt Barclay upon the battlements of Karosgrad as the two operated a cannon with another soldier of the retinue. As the battle reached its climax, Karl joined in the chorus of cheers as the largest foe seeking to clamber over the walls into the city was felled, landing with a thud within the Karosgrad Arena. It was then that the brunt of the Haeseni forces engaged with the Carrion Prince’s own, and the cry of “To the King!” echoed out across the walls. The Brotherhood soldiers along its length promptly rallied, as did the men of the Reinmaren Retinue. 

 

The ground, however, was another story. Even to his final days, Karl did not forget the chaos that greeted her and Sir Reinhardt. The King was surrounded, a handful of his Marian Knights acting as the final bulwark between him and the horde that the Carrion Prince commanded. Ser Conrad Barclay, the Knight Paramount, was slowly giving ground on the right, undertaking a fighting retreat as scattered forces began to converge on the gate, regrouping for a final stand. Seeing his friend Conrad in grave danger, Karl did not hesitate as he and Reinhardt surged right to join him as the lines drew nearer to the gate. It was a hard-fought day, and in the end, the battle was won, at a cost.

 

In the aftermath, he had learned that his Duchess, and most of all, his friend, had fallen in the battle. Although having abdicated her titles, Karl remained a close friend and confidant of the Maus as he called her. Although eccentric, he could not have asked for a better friend. She too shared in her plight regarding her role and identity, and he found a kindred spirit in that regard. Their conversations shared in Starpool would remain with him for the rest of his life. Perhaps he would be the first man of his line to make something, something truly lasting. Not just for himself, but for those whom he cared for dearly. He would not be an ember snuffed out before becoming a flame. 

 

On that day too there was cause for celebration. For their devoted and unwavering service to the Barclays of Reinmar, Sir Reinhardt saw fit to make him and his friend, and fellow man-at-arms, Frey, hedge knights of Reinmar. Although not officially recognized, this was always the honor he would carry with him most proudly. Of the many titles and positions he would come to hold throughout the second half of his life, he still carried the title of the Knight of the Rosefields most dearly. It was an honor he would seek to live up to for his dear friend Reinhardt.

 

 

---

  

 

As life went on, and his and Annette’s family grew, it came time to make their lives anew. Seeking out the kin of the Barclay of Reinmar, for a time Karl and his house came to live within the then Duchy of Minitz. For the next two decades, he would work diligently as its Chancellor, and at times Lord Regent. Through the worst of it, and the best, Karl could safely say that even years later he still remembered many of its denizens fondly. It was within the lands of the Reinmaren that his own family truly came into its own, into something that would last beyond him. 

 

Many of its wayward sons became men in their own right in this time. Karl could never truly put to words the appreciation and pride he felt at this. He remembered fondly of Theoderic meeting Calla, and Artel meeting Eloise. Of the two making families of their own, and of him acting as a father to the two. He came to see the two as sons, as much as his own son, Godric. 

 

His own children became men and women during this time too, his daughter Isavella marrying the Count of Warsovia. Karl often thought of Waclaw, especially after Isavella’s death during the Battle of Whitespire. The little Lechian boy who had fought shoulder to shoulder with him at Rolly’s Hill, and against the Mori in Neu Brandthof could not have been a better man to call his son-in-law. Godric married a Barclay of Reinmar, and had children of his own.

 

Although he would vehemently deny it, Thérèse became his favorite grandchild as the years wore on. She reminded him of himself in many ways. She was uncompromising, devoted, and intelligent. He knew that she would make him proud, and that she possessed the qualities necessary for the future of their house once his time came to go to the skies. Some of his favorite memories he thought of often were the conversations they shared and the lessons he attempted to impart upon her. As he grew old, he found himself swelling with pride as news of her own life reached his ears every so often. Of her taking up the mantle of Chancellor of the Petran Commonwealth, as if repeating the steps of his own life. The only thing he could begrudge her for was in part her choice of husband, though at heart he knew that she simply pursued the one she loved, for one’s heart wants what it wants. He understood, for her own story bore many similarities to his own. Although as she grew older and did not visit as often as she once did, he knew that in her heart she knew he would always be there for her, with whatever it was she might need. Be it advice, or a story of his life.

 

The stress of the years weighed heavily upon him too. He regretted many of the fights, and the tears which he caused his wife during this time. His own ambition had seen them move southwards, where bitter memories lay for Annette. In time, they became lords and ladies, and found their lives much different than they would have ever expected it to have been in Rozenfeld. Always one who would not send others to do what he would not, Karl found himself dancing with death time and time again, much as he had before he had met Annette. Arrows, blades, claws, all these and more came to mark his body, a painful reminder to his wife of the line of work he found himself drawn to time and time again. Beyond this, they argued on many occasions, and how he wished that he could take back all that was done and said. Even though the words said by either one of them had never shaken their devotion to one another, they were regrets he held with him now still as he exited the confines of Vissingren for a final time. 

 

 

---

 

 

As Karl slipped through the gates with the aid of a few sympathetic Astoran Partisans from his time as Viscount of Marignan, he could not help but be reminded of Rolly’s Hill as he entered the countryside. The border straddling the former holdings of the Stassionites layed in ruin, a byproduct of the recently concluded War of the Covenant. He began riding eastwards, the thud of his steed’s hooves upon the cobbled road was slowly drowned out by his wandering mind once more.

 

Although decades had passed, Rolly’s Hill always remained the most harrowing experience of his life. That day had been the worst of his life, the faces of many a fallen friend still remained etched within his mind. He still remembered the army in its splendor in the hours before the disastrous clash. From his own holdings he had brought four hundred men to bear alongside the host, primarily composed of Reinmaren from Minitz. Although they had expected over ten thousand men to take the field, they were met with barely half this when the great captains and lordlings of Aaun took count of their assembled strength. 

 

The fighting was fierce, and as always he found himself in the thick of it. At his side was his ever-faithful nephew, Alphonse. Karl had always admired Alphonse, for he never faltered in the face of adversity, having overcome sickness and disability in the form of his legs. Mounted atop steeds from Einmont, the two desperately shouted orders as the battlelines broke amidst the masterfully executed Adrian counterattack. 

 

In an instant, Karl found himself upon the ground, gasping for breath after having slammed into it from his horse. The line had broken, and an Adrian spear found itself lodged in his side. The following moments remained a blur, though he was later told that Alphonse had near dragged him from the field, while most of the others he’d brought were not so lucky.

 

That day loomed large, and it always served as a reminder for Karl that even years later, he was not free of the mistakes of his youth. That still, he might lose all which he had fought so hard to build in an instant. This lesson would remain ever-present within his mind as he entered the next chapter of his life.

 

 

---

  

 

 

As he, and his family grew older, they found themselves increasingly unhappy with the land they called home. Of Waldenian origin, they often found their own values and beliefs at odds with the more traditional elements of the Reinmaren culture among other issues that arose over time. In time, a decision was made amongst the entire family to depart elsewhere. 

 

A year later, the now elderly patriarch found himself in Vallagne, the heart of the Petran Commonwealth. In stark contrast to the primarily Reinmaren holding of Reinmar, he found the Commonwealth to be a vibrant realm of many peoples from across Aevos. It felt as though a small slice of every corner of the world could be found, should one look closely enough.

 

His family too seemed to thrive in this new home, offering their services to many of the Commonwealth’s offices, from the Chancellery, the Office of the Commissaire, and his son Godric in time leading the Commonwealth’s army. He knew that this would be his final home, and he was happy it would be so. His age began to show, and time began to catch up with the once energetic adventure.  

 

Soon he found himself more and more relegated to the keep he built, the energy to make the journey between it and Vallagne becoming ever more difficult as he aged. It frightened him, as he often confided in Annette. He had never believed that he would grow old, yet alone live out his golden years. In time, the trips grew less frequent, and his tower became home. Many nights were spent sharing a dinner with Annette as the two reflected upon their long life together.

 

Although at times it went unspoken, Karl was proud of all of them. Great efforts were made on his part to pester the partisans and servants who roamed the halls for the smallest shreds of news of his family. Among these events included the birth of Sabine, and the drama surrounding Theoderic and Calla’s daughter. As well as of his great grandson questioning if any lived within his tower in the keep. The latter being a point of great contention, which saw a rare departure from his tower to chastise the poor boy. A weird sense of contradicting feelings always filled him whenever he heard of new news, on one hand he was proud they lived their own lives, and were prospering on their own. Yet still, a small trace of sadness always loomed large, that he was unneeded any longer to guide them. His time had come, and had passed.

 

Though so long as he had Annette, it was a trivial matter. The two spent their twilight years tending their garden, or picking the grapes which would be used to brew the Zweigelt of which Annette’s portrait remained on each label, for she had been the inspiration to make a wine so sweet. A fate so quiet, for a man who had often found himself at the center of unfolding events in the world. One well-earned, many would say.

 

 

---

  

 

 

The cool breeze of the Mardonlands drew Karl from his thoughts as he began down the road towards Renilcia. His mind focused on the journey ahead as he retraced the steps towards the rose fields which the region held. 

 

The two had taken several trips there before their period of reclusivity in the Commonwealth, and those fields reminded him of their first home together, all those years ago. 

 

It had been in the rose fields of Reinmar which he had first courted Annette, and asked her to marry him. To him, he could think of no better place to see the sunrise one final time. 

 

As he drew near, Karl sent away his steed in the direction of Vissingren, its saddlebags filled with letters to be distributed once it arrived. Whilst he slowly approached a nearby oak resting atop a hillock, pressing his weight against it as he took a seat to gaze upon the fields below.

 

By now, the ride had taken several hours, and the early light of the dawn slowly came to illuminate the untouched fields which surrounded the ancient Waldenian. Karl held his gaze upon it for a few moments, taking in the scenery for a final time. He felt that in his heart, Annette was watching, and awaiting his arrival. 

 

With that, Karl closed his eyes, a smile resting on his face as he drifted off to sleep for a final time. His promise to Annette was fulfilled as he joined her in the Skies.

 

---

  

 

Despite all that had changed in his life, at heart, no matter what face he wore, Karl had always been the same young man all those years ago in that desert, wandering beneath the stars.

 

Some things cannot be escaped, but they do not define a man. In the end, it is what one leaves behind that defines them. And he had left so much behind.

 

In the end, perhaps he was a good man.

 

Ser Karl von Theonus, Viscount of Marignan 

(1857-1961)

 

---

[!] Letters would be found addressed to the following, their contents known only to the recipients.

 

To Frey,

Spoiler

Frey, @ColdPepsi

 

My old friend, if you are reading this, I have finally passed. It took a lot longer than you, or I might have ever expected during those days in Reinmar, no? I hope this letter reaches you well, and that you continue down your own path of redemption still, much as we did together all those years ago. If I could, I ask only one thing of you, my dear friend. Keep the promise you made to me years ago, keep an eye on those who come after me and offer them your wisdom, should you find they need it. I could not have asked for a better brother in arms.

 

Yours truly,

Karl

 

To Godric,

Spoiler

To my son, Godric, @YaBoyJay_

 

It has been a great privilege all these years to see the man you have become and the adventures of your own life transpire. Although it is not the path I originally wished for you, I know that I was wrong to dissaude you, and that has been one great regret of my life. Yet still, you made your own path, and did great things in your time, and shall continue to do so. Although your mother and I are now gone, know that we shall always watch over you, and that we could not have asked for a better son. You have made us both so proud.

 

With love,

Your father, Karl

 

To Thérèse,

Spoiler

To my granddaughter, Thérèse, @TaytoTot

 

Although I have taken it to the grave, you were always the favorite of my grandchildren. Your siblings were errant in their own right, while you seemed to understand the burden of this house that might befall you in time. Although I never approved of your choice of husband, it made your grandmother and I so happy to see the things you've accomplished. In many ways, you followed in the streps of my own life, and I cannot help but see much resemblance between you and I. Our lessons and talks all those years ago were some of my favorite moments with you, and I hope you have kept them close to your heart throughout the years. I certainly believe so, with all that I have seen you do. It fills me with great pride to know that the future is safe so long as you stand. To you I leave the jewelry still in my posession, including the livery collar I brought across continents. Perhaps in time it will go to your son, but for now I leave the decision to you. You are a credit to us all.

 

With love,

Opa

 

To Artel,

Spoiler

To my son, Artel, @Destructokeith

 

When your mother Artemisia first left you with us, I was unsure of the man you would become. Though in time I have grown to see you as a son to I, as I might call Godric, and Theoderic. You always made Annette and I proud when news reached our ears about your exploits. Though I never told you, I did once sneak out to see your ship. It is a fine vessel, and one that I am proud to see the banner of our house fly. You became a knight, a path I am filled with pride to see. The Flamebringer they call you, though do not forget to temper your flame with mercy, and kindness. Had Gansk lived longer, I know he would have called you as much an Icathian under the Red Sun as he or I. When all of you recover my bodies from the rose fields of Renilcia, I wish for you to take the sword I brought as your own. Remember I, and Annette by it.

 

With love,

Your father, Karl

 

To Theoderic,

Spoiler

To Theoderic, @Tremerus

 

I could not have asked for a better second during those many years of turmoil in the Duchy, as well as in the resettling of our family within Petra. I never said it as much to you as I did to Artel, you were in my eyes as much a son to me as my own trueborn children. The man you have become since your arrival in Minitz is one I feel naught but immense pride for, and one who is a credit to us all. You are a good man, and one of the best I had the honor of knowing in my lifetime. Words alone could never convey the deepest of thanks which I give to you. May you find good fortunes under the sun, and may you never waver while it still stands.

 

With my deepest respect and love,

Karl

 

To Waclaw,

Spoiler

To Waclaw, @ratlordmagic

 

It has been some years since we spoke, and with this letter you may come to know I have passed. I wish to say thank you, for I could not envision a better man to have wed Isavella. I do not blame you for her death in any measure, my Summer Rose always took after me, and it surprises me not that she passed fighting alongside the Aaunish patriots in Whitespire, for a home which she made her own with you. Although barely a man back then, by the time you two were wed I knew you would become one of the finest men Aaun would ever know. I wish you, and Roza the best of fortunes. The garden in Vissingren still holds her name, and it was a pleasure to see her so happy within it as a child. You are welcome always, for you are family no matter what.

 

With love,

Karl

 

To Aurel,

Spoiler

To my great-grandson, Aurel, @Tremerus

 

I write this letter to you to offer some wisdom in passing. You bear the mantle now which I did so many years ago. There are no right answers, nor strategies to ruling. Make decisions you think are right, and see them through. Your family shall stand by you, should you ask it of them. Do not waver, my child. You will do fine, and I shall be watching over you from the Skies above. I am proud of the man you are, and I look forward to seeing the one you shall become.

 

Sincerely your great grandfather,

Karl

 

To Alexandra,

Spoiler

To my dear niece, Alexandra, @Ztrog

 

Had I been asked what you would become all those years ago in Rozenfeld, I could never have envisioned the great things you have done. To say I am proud is an understatement, and a grevous one at that. Adrian would be most proud of the woman you became, and of the stories you told of your time as a Dame of Haense. I too am proud, and honored to have played a part in your upbringing.

 

With love,

Karl

 

To Alphonse,

Spoiler

To Alphonse, @bloomtiara

 

When you were a boy, I often found myself worrying about your place in this world. I am happy to say that you have made my fears for nothing and become a man worth being proud of. Your actions throughout the years have spoken louder than any words might, and I am truly proud of you. I know too that your mother and father are as well, wherever they might be. I made a promise to your mother many years ago that I would offer my guidance, and care for you, and I hope that I lived up to that promise. I look forward to your cooking once again when it is your time to head off to the Skies. As well, I believe you still possess my journal which I gave you many years ago and I hope it may provide some comfort with my passing.

 

With love,

Karl.

 

To Alfred,

Spoiler

To my godson, Alfred, @Gandhi

 

Although I have not seen you since you were a boy attending the Waldenic Diet, I am happy to say I have kept up with the news of your exploits, and those of Reinmar. Were I a younger man, I might make the trek and offer you my sword in aid to establish a kingdom of your own. When your father asked me to be your godfather, I had no clue the heights to which you would soar, and it fills me with pride to think of what you might achieve. When your new capital is built, you ought to send a letter to one of my grandchildren, for I have a gift that shall be held until such a time for you by them. The only hint I shall provide is it is something older than I, and forged by your kin. A piece of history I believe ought to be yours to reflect upon in your new home.

 

Sincerely your godfather,

Karl.

 

OOC Note:

Spoiler

This was the first character I played upon returning to LOTC a solid year and a half ago, and there are so many people who I interacted with that I would like to say thank you to! I've never written a post for the past characters I've played and I tried to condense many different moments of the time I played him in this post, so my apologies if there's a lot missing to anyone who read through and didn't see their character mentioned directly. (It was already 5000 words, and I feared writing twice that if not more if I incoporated as many things as I wanted to originally, and that is a lot lmao)

 

Though I cannot @ all of you, I want to give a special thanks to @TaytoTot for being such an integral part of this character, and helping me get back into this server to the extent which I have. There are so many things that I would not have tried to do (including writing a pk post) had it not been for your continued support and help. As well, a big thank you to all the people who have come to play in the Theonus group, it has been awesome making a story on here with all of you, @Tremerus@Destructokeith@Itz_Cookie@YaBoyJay_ @Petsch2k and so many others. From Reinmar, to Minitz, and Petra, thank you for everyone who had some interaction with Karl in one way or another throughout the time he was around. He was an awesome character to play, and my favorite to date!

 

[TaytoTot 1168]

Annette patiently waited for a few days, but was ready to wait for years, decades. She paced back and forth, trying to find some way to pass the time. And finally, he was there. Before her stood the man she loved more than anyone in the entire world. “Karl!” She called, going to hug him tightly. “Oh, how Ich missed du. And now, du vill never leave mein side.” She released him from her tight grasp, her hand going to intertwine with his. “Ich have so many people for du to meet. Und Papa ist first on zhat list.”

 

Thérèse stood at the gates of Vissingren, seeing a horse come to the gates. "An abandoned horse. . .?" She questioned, going outside to retrieve it. She then noticed the letters stuffed within. As she pulled them out, the quickly recognised the handwriting to be her grandfathers. Her face almost went pale. "No." She uttered, in complete disbelief. "Opa. . .I suppose would never go on without Oma. It was coming one way or another." She said before distributing the letters to everyone addressed.

[Destructokeith 621]

Artel takes the letter as the men of his family unload the bag, the wayward son retreats to his forge, opening it the knight reads the letter and tears swell up in his eyes, he takes a moment to collect himself before he turns to exit the safety of his workspace he takes a long walk through the Black Hills "Theonus" he mutters to himself as he walks, without his father that name would mean nothing, the banners that fly on his home and hang from his back would bear no meaning.
The aging man walks until a rut is bore into the earth beneath his feet, with a silent nod and a few more tears he turns back to the gate, his fathers body was to be collected from where it lay, a job was to be done.

 

Spoiler

I cried, rip to the big man! the bloodfather of Theonus and a hero of the age!

 

[ratlordmagic 793]

Another candle snuffed. Another light, permanently extinguished. Karl had been one of the greatest men Ser Waclaw Jazlowiecki had known- the kind to define a generation, one the world was going to sorely miss in the coming years as peace once more settled upon the continent. He smiled upon reading his late father-in-law’s letter. “Know that what you’ve built will endure, long after we are all but dust. That is the greatest legacy to which a man can aspire. Rest well, Karl. God knows you’ve earned it.”

[Sarven 1716]

As Sir Karl came to the seven skies Sir Yvian looked on with a soft smile on his face, despite the highs and lows in their past, he always considered him a reliable battle brother from their times in Minitz. The Herrenmeister offered a simple handshake, and the words;

"It has been long, since we last spoke, and yet even till your final breath, you followed the words;

Wer Rastet, Der Rostet."

 

 

[Itz_Cookie 1735]

A former friend poured a drink for the newly deceased.

 

"I'm sorry to have disappointed you, Karl. I know damn well I did.."

 

She huffed a quiet sigh, a weight of guilt on her shoulders. Leaving the glass on the ledge before heading to her chambers.

 

______

 

His daughter, on the other hand, was overjoyed to once again see her father.

 

"Vater! Oh, vater..- I've missed you."

 

It'd been too long since they'd last seen each other...

[Ztrog 1031]

After being told the contents of her letter and of Karl's passing a hand presses to the aging Dame's mouth. Tears then trickle down her cheeks, wetting the blindfold that covers her eyes. "Oncle Karl...Ich vish I vas zhere vith vy." A sniffle then follows. "Ich vill..keep making vy proud Ich promise." 

[StrongBear 1185]

Adrian, the friend who died many years ago, tackles the familiar man upon his entrance to the seven skies, "Aha! Finally you made it, we need to drink and banter like old times. It's been far too long."

[Gandhi 2708]

Alfred received the letter, alongside the news of Karl's passing. He keeled over at his desk - slamming a hand & shattering a small jar of writing ink. He held himself there, for a moment. He hadn't seen Karl in years, decades even - and yet it still weighed upon his heart like a pile of bricks.

 

The Duke finally took time to read over what he'd been sent - having recuperated aptly enough. "A gift.." He spelled, lips pressing into thin lines - veiling a slight smile at the commendations levied upon him. "I ought to fetch you a bust - in our Palace, for your service, godfather." 

 

Finally, he unlocked a chest that dwelled within the corners of his chambers, high in Kanunsberg. From which - he removed a small bottle of Godsflame. Alfred turned upon his heels and departed, hastily leaving the safety of Minitz's towering walls. The man sought to seclude himself within the Langkette, bringing himself as close to Arturix the Frank's camp as possible. By which point - he'd hurl the potion at the walls of the camp in the dead of night, and promptly withdraw down to home.

[Tremerus 271]

Theoderic took his letter when his turn came and went into the entryway to the mines guarded by his family's keep. He sighed, and began reading. Once he finished, his eyes returned to one word; son and lingered there for some time. He stared at that word until the sound of a tear, or two hitting the page shook him from the trance he found himself in. Once he collected himself, he walked out to Vissingren's courtyard where he saw Artel making his way to the gate and joined him - nodding toward the man who had become his brother. No words needed to be shared in that moment, both knew they had a job to do, and were determined to see it completed. 

 

Aurel von Theonus took his letter last and held it close to his chest as he walked up the many stairs to the family's keep. He stepped toward the big chair in the hall when a thought struck him and stopped in his tracks. He decided to leave that chair empty. Deciding that in this moment it wasn't his, that it would be better to leave that seat empty out of respect for his great-grandfather - who would probably hate the gesture - and moved toward the small chair next to it. When he took his seat he read the letter once ... twice ... and a third time, trying to take in the simple advice as best he could. He then looked to his left through a window overlooking the courtyard where he saw his uncles meet. The young margrave decided to leave them to their task and instead walked farther into the keep, stopping at the various paintings depicting his great-grandparents. Then made his way to the top of the Rose Tower where he laid down amidst the garden planted and cared for by Annette and Karl and looked to the stars. "Like this garden, you both grew our family into quite the sight to behold. I hope I'm able to continue what you started." 

[D4rkSolar 92]

Andreas Ironsword Smiled seeing his old Friend join him and so many others in the Seven Skies "We meet again old friend"

 

[carebear 441]

Calla von Theonus didn't hear about Karl's death until after Theoderic had returned, through hushed words and bowed heads. After picking up the letter left to her husband, she shed several tears for the man who had always been there for her and Theo.

 

"I wish I was able to call him my father-in-law in life, but doing so now still feels right..."

 

Calla nursed a bottle of wine for the rest of that night, reminiscing about Karl and Annette, wishing she could have gotten to know them better than she did.

[ColdPepsi 31]

Frey sat upon a hill, letter in hand. “Took some time, didn’t it?” He chuckled softly. “Though I find myself wishing it took longer, much longer.” He said wistfully, staring at the ground. “But rest up, old friend. You deserve it, and I won’t forget my promise.”

[Olox_ 3406]

With his hands clasped behind his back, somewhere in the Seven Skies, stood Heinrich II Lothar. The palm of the late Lord Vandalore rose to his temple as he gave the retired Elector a militant salute "Here your duty ends, Freund. One day we will all meet again, in here." The Alstreim said before stepping forth to greet his friend properly

[DahStalker 2856]

Silently an ancient woman of Waldenian origins sat upon the comforts of the seven skies, often gazing at a lifetime in what seemed like mere hours for her. This was how she fulfilled her time, having naught anyone to spend her paradise with. It was one day she sought to focus on that eccentric Waldenian youth, watching his life unfold before her very eyes. 
 

By the end of it all tears coursed down pale cheeks as the nimble woman wept. Eva Anna von Rovin, Queen of the Westerlands was touched. She felt joy for that stranger, she felt fear for that stranger, she at times felt envious of that stranger. What a loving and well-spent life she thought. She needed a break and for the next few decades she drew herself into isolation, only after making brief request her son Saint Caius would bless the man’s dynasty. What a charming life that man had lived.