[PK] MARTYRDOM

[MadOne 4945]

 

 

 

So it was, that in the age of Heroes, In the time of the tribes, when the land was wild and the forests were deep, that a child had been born to Leon Barclay, High Chieftain of the Reinmaren. The stars shone bright upon his birth, and the wolves howled as if to herald the arrival of one destined for greatness and sorrow. They named him Brandt, and from his first breath, his life was bound to the fate of his people.

 

Brandt grew among the rose fields, the plains and the forests of Reinmaren, learning to ride the swift horses of his tribe, to wield the sword and spear, and to serve his people with a heart as fierce as the storm and as steadfast as the mountains. His father, Leon, a warrior of great renown, taught him the ways of leadership and the burdens it carried. In the shadow of his father, Brandt forged his own path, his spirit burning bright and untamed.

 

In his youth, he found kinship with Kato Oijin of Sakuragakure, the Black Swordsman, a master of the blade, and Ser Uther, who would rise to become Tar-Numenatar, King of Numendil. Their bonds were forged in the fires of battle and the trials of knighthood, each one a pillar of strength and loyalty. They laughed and fought together, their hearts bound by a brotherhood that transcended the bloodshed of their times. So it was, during the times of Heinrik's rebellion, that such kinship would be forged forevermore.

 

Brandt's rise was relentless. He was knighted as a Knight of Saint Tylos, his valor and piety earning him respect and honor. He became Duke of Minitz, ruling with a just hand, and later the Grand Prince of Minitz, his reign marked by wisdom, and prosperity. But the specter of war loomed ever closer, and Brandt was called to defend the Kingdom of Aaun against the first Adrian revolt.

 

For King Charles, Brandt rode against Heinrik, Duke of Adria. In the blood-soaked fields, his lance was a beacon of defiance, his courage inspiring those who fought beside him. The Veletzian Great War followed, and Brandt faced Sir Gaspard, the Captain-General of Veletz, a knight of great renown and honor. At the Battle of Hippo's Gorge, it was Brandt's lance that struck the decisive blow, forcing Sir Gaspard to retreat, securing a bittersweet victory against a man he had respected as a friend.

 

As the years passed, the battles became distant echoes, and Brandt, weary of war, longed for peace. He abdicated the Grand Principality to his son, Ferdinand I, and took up the cloth, pursuing the scholarly life he had always yearned for. His faith, a guiding light through his darkest days, led him to become the High Pontiff, the inheritor of the Laurel of Owyn. He dreamed of uniting the sons of Horen, casting out iniquity, and bringing peace to the land.

 

But peace is a fleeting dream, and in the twilight of his life, Brandt faced his final trial. During the siege of Hexicanum, Lanre, the undead Lich, emerged from the shadows, his sword a harbinger of doom. Brandt, now Caius Primus, with the weight of his years and the sorrow of countless battles upon him, stood firm. Their clash was brief, and at the tip of Lanre's sword, Brandt fell, his spirit ascending to the Seven Skies.

 

So fell Caius Primus. A martyr to iniquity. He was a warrior, a leader, a friend, and a man of unyielding faith. A flame that burns bright in the hearts of those who remember his name.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1883-1985

 

In the name of the Divine Creator, whose mercy endures forever, I, Caius Primus, High Pontiff and former Grand Prince of Minitz, do hereby declare this document to be my last will and testament. In my final hour, I bestow upon my beloved heirs and companions the fruits of my life's endeavors and possessions.

 

PRIMARY HEIRS

 

Leon II, the Grand Prince of Minitz, my grandson:

• To you, Leon, I leave all my weaponry, symbols of our family's honor and strength, and a fifth of my material wealth. May these serve you well in upholding our legacy.

 

 

Adelmar von Kanunsberg, my grandson:

• To you, Adelmar, I leave my Pontifical cloak, a garment that has witnessed both glory and tribulation, and a fifth of my material wealth. May you wear it with the dignity it demands.

 

 

Nikolaus von Kanunsberg, my grandson:

• To you, Nikolaus, I leave my mask, which has seen the truth behind many faces, and a fifth of my material wealth. Let it remind you of the importance of both concealment and revelation.

 

 

Verena Korvacz, my granddaughter:

• To you, Verena, I leave a fifth of my material wealth and my signet ring, a symbol of authority and continuity. Wear it with pride, and let it guide your hand in all matters of judgment.

 

 

Elisei Ivanovich, my grandson:

• To you, Elisei, I leave a fifth of my material wealth and my armor as Duke of Minitz. May this armor protect you as you uphold the honor and valor of our house.

 

SECONDARY HEIRS

 

 

Frantzisko Cardinal Albarosa:

• To you, Frantzisko, I leave all my correspondence, private letters, and the items of dark magic secured from iniquity. You are granted the sacred duty of being the keeper of my worldly remains. Guard them with the vigilance they require.

 

 

Cardinal Callahan:

• To you, Callahan, I leave my Gospel and the Mercyflame. May you continue to spread the divine word with the fervor and conviction it demands.

 

 

Cardinal Villorik:

• To you, Villorik, I leave my copy of Bestia Conlectia, a bestiary transcribed during my youth. May this work enhance your understanding and appreciation of the creatures of iniquity within our world.

 

 

Uther, formerly known as Tar-Uther Numenatar:

• To you, Uther, I leave my banner, blessed by Saint Michael the Archangel. Let it fly high in your halls, a symbol of our eternal friendship and shared battles.

 

 

Kato Oijin of Sakuragakure:

• To you, Oijin, I leave Vander Prime, the automaton. May it serve you as faithfully as you have served our friendship.

 

 

Sir Ailred of Druzstra:

• To you, Ailred, I leave sixty-four drachems of gold. Let this be a token of my gratitude for your loyalty and service.

 

Raziel Amethil, the Letterman:

• To you, Raziel, I leave my recipes for alchemy. May your knowledge grow and your wisdom guide many.

 

 

 

[!] All letters are private. 

 

To Leon, my beloved grandson, @BuilderBagel

Spoiler

Leon, my heart swells with pride whenever I think of you. You are the one among my descendants who mirrors me most closely. Beneath your vestiges of honor and the mantle of leadership, I see a principled, bookish, and wise soul. Do not change, my dear grandson. These qualities will guide you through the trials of life as they have guided me. Your journey is just beginning, and I have never been prouder of anyone than I am of you, for I raised you with my own hands and heart. Continue to lead with wisdom and compassion, and know that my spirit will always be with you.

 

To Verena, my dear granddaughter, @RingAroundRosey

Spoiler

Verena, I know there is a sorrow in your heart, a grief for something done by my hand. I do not wish to add to your burden of grief. Instead, let me assure you of my unwavering love. Even as I ascend to the seven skies, my eyes will always be upon you, watching over you with pride. You have grown into a remarkable woman, strong and noble. Continue to make our family proud, and stay away from the shadows of evil. Do not let corruption touch your heart, for you are destined for greatness. Carry my love with you always.

 

With deepest affection, Caius

 

 

To Cordelia, @Witchring

 

Spoiler

When we met, my heart was yours, and I loved you deeply. But the fates saw fit to lead our paths apart. Your spirit remains strong, and you are a woman of great resilience. Cherish the necklace I gave you; let it be a symbol of the love that once bloomed between us. Though our lives took different turns, I have never forgotten you. I hope that one day, perhaps after I have departed this world, you will find your way back to the light. Abandon the life that has brought you so much pain. Seek redemption, for it is never too late to save your soul.

 

With enduring love, Brandt.

 

 

To Yera, @Ewdrawings

Spoiler

Yera, I confess that I have always harbored doubts about you, and even now, those doubts linger. Yet, you have proven yourself a worthy ally time and again. Do not let the temptation of voidal addiction consume you, for it is a path to ruin. Resist its allure, or I will always regard you as an eternal failure. Prove me wrong, Yera. Rise above your weaknesses and show the world the strength that lies within you. You have the potential to be more than you are; seize it.

 

With cautious hope, Caius

 

To Seth Calith, @Samler

 

Spoiler

Seth, you are a remarkable individual. Your cool demeanor and steadfast loyalty have been a source of strength to me. Thank you, for standing by my side and for being a true friend. Your presence has always been a comfort, and I value you immensely. Continue to be the incredible person you are, and know that you have my gratitude and respect.

 

With sincere thanks, Caius

 

To Uther, my mentor and friend, @SimplySeo

Spoiler

Uther, you have been like a father to me, guiding me through the darkest times and celebrating with me in the light. My passing may bring you sorrow, but I urge you not to grieve. Instead, celebrate the life we shared and the victories we won together. You have much to live for, and I am particularly fond of your grandchildren; Arathor and Eriantiel. I had the pleasure of knowing them well, and I see the same greatness in them that I saw in you. Guide them as you guided me, and let our legacy endure.

 

With eternal gratitude, Brandt

 

 

 

To Joakim Colborn and Yuri, @Seuss @Nolan_

 

Spoiler

Joakim and Yuri, you have been steadfast armsmen, reliable and true. Your dedication and skill have not gone unnoticed. Keep up the excellent work, for you are valued and respected. Continue to serve with honor, and may your paths be ever blessed.

 

With appreciation, Caius

 

To Tatiyana, @Mady

Spoiler

Tatiyana, despite our initial disagreements, you have proven to be a pious, just, and righteous woman. Never change, for your virtues are a beacon of hope in a troubled world. Know that I am watching over you, and I am proud of the person you have become. Continue to walk the path of righteousness, and let your light shine bright.

 

With respect and admiration, Caius

 

To Raziel Amethil, the Letterman, @Laeonathan

Spoiler

What troubles you, my son? Is your only desire to master voidal magics and host tea parties? No. That's ********. You should be out there, cracking heads. Finding the LIVING GOD. I have a deep purpose for you, my son. Otherwise, why would I speak to you, and only you? You are a good boy.

 

Caius

 

To Callahan, @Fleeperpriest

Spoiler

Callahan, my trusted companion in faith and fervor, I leave you with one word: HYPERWAR.

 

Caius

 

To Frantzisko, @cadazio

Spoiler

Frantzisko, my loyal friend, I have always promised you faith. I should like you to complete Mount Tylos, made of piety and unassailable by doubt. There, no one can question your statistics or your devotion. Continue to uphold the sacred duties with which you have been entrusted, and let your faith be your fortress.

 

With boundless trust, Caius

 

To Lesley, @Saun_399

Spoiler

You worthless piece of dung.

 

 

To Sir Lug MacSkaul, @JesterMilk

Spoiler

Lug, my brother in arms and faith, you have always stood as a pillar of strength. A steadfast knight, and a Templar. Remain good and true to your principles. Stay based, as you always have been, and let your unwavering resolve continue to inspire those around you. The path of righteousness is not an easy one, but you walk it with honor and integrity. Keep fighting the good fight.

 

With brotherly respect,
Caius

 

To Naith and Athri, @WhatASithuation @Halfirate

Spoiler

GOD, you two are so EVIL! Your relentless pursuit of power and addiction to its dark allure have caused much harm. I have left information about you with my brothers, for your actions cannot go unchecked. Stop loving power for its own sake, and cease your constant chase for more. The 'manipulative silver-tongued liar' act is so overdone in your circles. For once, try to be original! Seek goodness, or at least raise a child with love and care. Why do you find joy in sacrificing souls and perpetuating evil? Just as you halted such actions during my life, I implore you to stop now. There is still time to change.

With a plea for redemption,
Caius

 

To Deia, @ivery

Spoiler

[!] A drawing.

 

 

To Sarryn the Cockroach, @TimberBuff

Spoiler

[!] A portrait.

 

 

To Atticus, @Hom

 

Spoiler

To Atticus,

You are a good and loyal man, Atticus. Your steadfastness and loyalty have not gone unnoticed. However, I urge you to be more confident in yourself. You have many strengths and qualities that others admire. Do not let awkwardness hold you back. Embrace your talents and abilities with conviction. Believe in yourself as others believe in you. You have much potential waiting to be unleashed.

With encouragement and respect,

Caius

 

To Adalfriede, @Toffee

Spoiler

Though you are defensive, your diligence and confidence have brought great prosperity to our people. In you, I see the true spirit of the Reinmaren. Know that everything I leave for Leon, I leave for you as well. You are my true grand-daughter, loved and cherished deeply. Your dedication and commitment have not gone unnoticed, and I am proud of the leader you have become.

With heartfelt affection,

 

Caius

 

To Robert von Stroheim, @Shadow2k

Spoiler

You have been with me since our youth, a steadfast companion through all our trials. We grew up together, forging bonds of brotherhood that time cannot diminish. You are not just a friend but a true brother and mentor. I am grateful for your unwavering support and guidance.

 

With Peter, Saxton, and now myself, you have endured many losses. Cherish the life you have, dear friend. You are the pillar of the Minitzers, embodying our tribe itself. Keep Stanton safe, for I hold him dear to my heart. Know that I will watch over the Stroheim family from the skies above.

 

With eternal camaraderie,

Caius

 

To Sir Gaspard, wherever you are, @M1919

Spoiler

You have always been a worthy foe, and I have always held you in high regard. Your strength and honor in battle were unmatched, and I respected your dedication to your cause. As I reflect, I often wonder what might have transpired if our roles were reversed.

 

You have always been a respectable man, and I hope that wherever life has taken you, you find peace and fulfillment in your retirement. May you remain steadfast as you have always been, and may the memories of our encounters bring you as much honor as they have brought me.

 

With sincere respect,

Caius

 

FOR THE LAST TIME,

 

[Turbo_Dog 3581]

A small grey imp that watched the fall of the holy warrior walked out of the rubble of the Hexicanium. Now princeless and powerless. He thought briefly of the fight between Caius and the voidal lich and smiled the devil’s grin. The voidal lich was the one he cheered for in the end

[Seuss 1056]

Joakim Colborn carried the body of Caius Primus all the way from the Hexicanum to Haense. His body faltered under his legs with each step, but he did not give up until the High Pontiff was laid down inside the church. It was there he collapsed. It was there he mourned.

[cadazio 2105]

The Crab remained by the shore. Another tear joined the sea.

 

"Brandt doesn't die... Brandt doesn't die..."

 

Who would he be a narrative device for, now?

[crazedpudding 2512]

Frederica Barclay froze as the news met her ears, and a slow breath left her lips.

"What should I call you now?"
 

All those years ago, she could still remember the first words she had ever spoken to the Pontiff. She had wondered, then, what she would call the man who was like a grandfather to her.

"Cousin Caius, child. Just Cousin Caius."

[annabanana1014 2084]

Juliya Barclay heard the news within Haense, letting a single tear drop as she went to retire to her room.. Retiring from the public view to grieve His Holiness, her beloved cousin. 

[JesterMilk 247]

Lug MacSkaul begged to be taken with the body of Caius as it was carried to Haense. He cried to protect the now deceased Pontiff as the medics forcefully took Lug to Koyo-Kuni. Soon after he was tended to he knew what he had to do. He had to find Cardinal Frantzisko.

[Herod 1417]

The Holy Ser of Druzstra never once cried in his adult life and never lost face in times of peril, but part of him died with his true friend, Brandt, and it showed; A broken and gaunt face rested upon his shoulders for years to come, perhaps until death.

"In a world with darkness and terrible evil, true warriors of faith do not rest for while there is glory and duty to complete. But you, my brother, have earned it with the highest honor. Warm me a seat in the corpse hall, for the parting of brotherhood is only temporary, I promise."

[Cryptic 553]

Falling alongside His Holiness, Ser Alteon cried the pontiff's name, signing the Lorraine as both were slain.

[Mady 3771]

Spoiler

 

 

 

 

The images of the Hexicanium filled the Duchess of Ruthern's mind. . .the wall of moving flesh, the rat tunnels and the shrill cries of undead echoed within her memory even as she returned back from her battle. The sight of so much death softened her hardened heart and atop the pile, a man who she had looked up to since childhood. 

 

Within the Duchy of Vidaus, Tatiyana vas Ruthern would recover peacefully. Though days after her fight, a letter would be received by her courier, one bearing the seal of Caius I. As her eyes scanned over the words, her vision grew blurry and for the first time in a long while, Tatiyana wept as the final words of the Pontiff sung through her mind. 

 

"THE RIGHTEOUS WALK BOLDLY."

[sam33497 7360]

Lanre Cerusil, who was once great, who blasphemed, who had slain Sixtus, who had rent the earth with energies of horror, who opposed that beautiful peace Caius embodied, who had died just alike him, ran him through with a blade. It was as he said:

 

"It is the destiny of all great men to die." 

 

Spoiler

One of the best characters I've ever gotten the opportunity to roleplay with, no matter the persona or situation.

 

[xo31 4010]

Arthur, although after assisting the Pontiff a few times, held a great respect for the man, for, at least he actually worked to make changes, instead of sit around. Regardless of how the Pontiff saw Arthur, in his delusions, he believed them to be great allies.

[alienescence 1415]

Josefina, the great-granddaughter of the High Pontiff, entered the Haeseni church after she had seen two guards carrying a body inside. Upon seeing the body of the fallen Caius Primus, she hurriedly made her way to the dais, falling to her knees beside her beloved great-grandfather with a tearful expression.

 

"You were too good for this wretched realm, grandpa Caius. I'll look after my father for you."

 

So did Josefina make that promise, and she swore to herself that she would fulfill it.

[TN_TURKEY 298]

Ser Arathor of Númenost, after declaring Caius' passing to his people, would kneel before the holy tree of Calahdril, and offer up a prayer for his soul.

[Wavey 2568]

The young Cardinal remained seated at the bench upon the garden at the Holy See. He too cried that night, albeit silently. He did not speak much with the man, yet in a way he still resonated an aura of fatherly benevolence to him. Alongside Frantzisko, Caius had guided him too along this path. The Cardinal did his best to uphold his responsibilities as Caius's Secretariat. He had indeed lost a great mentor. Ivan got up from the bench, making his way to the orchid as he whispered.

"Ex terra efficimur. Ad terram revertamur. Here he was. Here he will remain."