Jayphynph

Daniel was lounging somewhere in the Seven Skies with a good book and a glass of whisky as he heard a noise approaching. As he turned to behold his wife, a mass of different contradicting emotions welled up within him. He placed the book and glass down at his side, merely staring at her for a while, unable to decide on a specific demeanor. Finally, a small smile prevailed, one exhibiting both grief and happiness. "I didn't expect to see you here so soon," he said with a sigh. "I've missed you, my love." He stood up to give her a hug, embracing her for the first time in years. Pulling back, the smile was now emphatically happy as he gestured for Brianna to take a seat so they could catch up. "How are the kids?"

The by this point dead-and-buried Daniel von Rhoswald looked on from beyond the grave, expressing a sigh of relief as years of work was finally finished. "About time, Georgie," he mumbled before continuing to do whatever it is dead people do...

As sorrowfully announced by the House von Rhoswald on the 11th of Dragon's Roar 639 AA “So much left unfinished…” The thought echoed throughout Daniel’s mind as he lay idle on the floor behind the counter of the St. Godwinsburg Tavern. Though he tried, he could not move a muscle, his well-worn spectacles lying shattered on the ground beside him. “What of Max?” The boy, now a man, was still yet to find his footing in life, yet to discover his destiny. “What of Brigitte?” His eldest daughter and heir, still a young woman with great responsibility thrust upon her far too soon in life. How would she do as such an important figure? Was she ready? “What of Isla?” His second daughter, neither tested by the struggles of life, nor tried in its pleasures. “What of Athol?” The young priestling, great ambition tempered by a relentless resolve, sometimes to his own detriment. He’d never see his son grow up, at least not properly. “What of Micah?” For Micah, he worried the most. The poor kid was not raised right, he concluded, shaming himself in the process. How would they fare in life with no father to take care of them? He heard footsteps outside the tavern. He wanted nothing more than to shout for help, yet no matter how much he instructed his body to move, his voice to sound out in the streets, nothing happened. And no one entered to find him in this sorry state. “What of Kasper?” The youngest child. Would he feel as Daniel felt when his own father was taken from him? Would Kasper forget Daniel just as Daniel forgot Aaron? “No, no he’s old enough to remember me. Please, my boy, remember me…” The light of the sun outside began to fade. Daniel could feel blood at his temple, perhaps he had hit his head in the fall. “No… I won’t die like this, not now.” With all the power the aging Rhoswald could muster, did he once more command his body to move, this time with more success. It seemed, for a moment, that the spell cast over him lifted, and he rose to his feet with a great struggle. Half blind from lack of glasses, mouth heavy and drooling, pain shooting up and down the left side of his body as he tried to take a step outside, to those voices echoing throughout the streets, blissfully unaware of his condition. His vision became hazy again, he became dizzy again. Another step. Blood seeped into his eyes, he was now practically blind. Another step. “I will see my family again,” he thought to himself. Powered by the determination only a dying man could command. “What of my wife?” The thought stopped him in his tracks. Once just a friend for a decade, she came back into his life when he needed her the most. So much struggle. Too much struggle. “My dear, we will meet again.” Daniel von Rhoswald fell once more, now for the final time. Hitting his head on the bannister, everything went black in an instant. “Was this how my father felt? Bleeding out in the streets of Elizabeth? My mother, dying in my arms atop his grave? So many mistakes…” By the time he was found, it was too late, much too late. Echoes of his childhood, playing with his siblings was the last thing Daniel could manage to think of before, at last, everything went quiet. “... So many people to take care of. So-” The following is the last will and testament of Lord Daniel Andres von Rhoswald Mayor-Emeritus of Elizabeth and St. Godwinsburg, Master of Rolls, Gentile of Alba, Alderman of Little Furnestock To my daughter, Brigitte Mirabel, do I leave my title, and according duties and privileges. Likewise do I leave what may remain of my material wealth to her, including the house in Little Furnestock and adjoining land, charging her with upholding the virtues of our house and maintaining her siblings and mother, should the latter outlive me. To my brother Richard Alaric, do I leave stewardship of the Drunken Squire Tavern and Inn. I trust him to manage it as the property is either passed to another of my family, or reverted back to the city of St. Godwinsburg. I also pass all the inventory of the tavern, such as alcohol and food to him as intermediary, while proper negotiations take place regarding the tavern’s future. To my wife, Brianna, I leave my personal affects, which only she may deal with accordingly, knowing their history and importance. As regards funerary rights: I wish for my Golem prosthetic to be removed from my person and destroyed before burial, that after three and a half decades together, I may finally be removed from the construct. While perhaps sentimental, I wish to be buried wholly human. I wish to be buried according to the custom of my house, to be guided by my brother, Richard Alaric and sister in all but blood, Lilia de Senna. S I G N E D,

Daniel Andres von Rhoswald could not help but feel relieved as he held the missive in his (functional) hand. The years of labour, the repeated help of friends, and so little time left to enjoy its fruits. He could only hope the future was secure. Daniel sighed, placing the missive aside as he returned to his sickbed, a place he had been inhabiting more and more these past weeks.

I’ll ask the classic question: Who’s your favourite ever character?

Issued on the 17th of Aurelian’s Glory, 629 AA Good people of Azuras! In the heart of St. Godwinsburg, the capital of the Archduchy of Alba, there lies a tavern! A house of revelry and merriment, where old and young may gather to lift their spirits, engage in stirring discussion and feast to their hearts’ content! Come, one and all, and join in the festivities! All drinks and food is made in and from produce sourced from Alba, and when possible prepared specially in-house. Alcoholic drinks: Fassstärke: a home-made, smooth yet strong beer - 2 minae Eagle’s Gold, honey beer sourced from the Aesterwald Brewery - 2 minae Rhewen's Reserve: strong dwarven-made ale - 2 minae Alban Apple Cider: light, yet punchy - 2 minae Alban Spritz: a bubbly, colourful beverage - 2.5 minae Single-malt whisky, prepared in the Rhoswald cellars - 3 minae Dark Rum, prepared in the Rhoswald cellars - 3 minae Schnapps, perfect for good company - 3 minae Wyrvun's Breath: dwarven-made vodka - 3 minae Trierport Standard: red wine sourced from the Devereux vineyards - 3 minae Midsummer Cabernet, sourced from the Devereux vineyards - 3 minae Trierport Scarlet: the finest wine for special occasions - 20 minae Naturas Blanc: white wine courtesy of the Kingsley Company - 3 minae Waldenian Mulled Wine, served with raisins and blanched almonds - 3 minae Non-alcoholic beverages: Chocolate Coffee, infused with vanilla and hazelnut shavings - 2.5 minae Herbal Nettle Tea: a calming drink made with a finely tuned blend of fresh herbs - 2.5 minae Apple Juice, made from fine Alban apples - 2 minae Hot Chocolate, served with whipped cream and hazelnut and chocolate shavings - 2.5 minae Food & Sweets: The ‘Burg’n’d’: homemade with love. Beef, vegetables and a secret sauce between a bun - 3 minae Soft Pretzel: Waldenian-style warm pretzel topped with rocky sea salt - 0.5 minae Feast Platter: a variety of foods and meats all served together for the perfect sharing-meal - 3 minae Dragon Wings, sure to challenge even the strongest - 3 minae Chocolates, with vanilla or coconut fillings. Courtesy of the Kingsley Company - 2 minae Ask for specials, you never know what we might have in our stores! Rooms go for 20 minae/year, contact Daniel von Rhoswald For business inquiries, likewise please contact Daniel von Rhoswald

Charles Reye had long been ill by the time of his death. Although changed frequently, the bloodied handkerchief in his pocket served as a constant reminder of his ailments, and the encroaching promise of eternal rest. To his own dismay, Charles sometimes found himself wishing for the end to finally come. Sometimes, the pain of coughing up one’s lungs became just too much, and sometimes he found himself wishing to see his loved ones again, of whom he had lost so many. But Charles had been blessed with a fighting spirit. Even in his youth, which by now he often found himself thinking back to, he’d feast on maggots and leaves whenever he couldn’t hunt, sometimes due to a lack of animals, sometimes due to the threat of the gamekeeper and his nose. Sleeping outside in the wet and cold, hungry and thirsty, built tough nerves, but it was hardly good for one’s health… In the twilight of his life, amid the pain and rotting lungs consuming his very being, Charles even participated in the siege of New Valdev alongside the Númenedain. Perhaps he was hoping to die with honour and glory, or perhaps he just wanted to help. In any case, it was here his body finally broke beyond repair. Burned by boiling oil, shot in the thigh and stabbed in the stomach by the Mountain’s minions, Charles, barely hanging onto life, crawled back home to Silasia to die. There, with the help of Valencia, he clung to life for another excruciating month. Falling in and out of consciousness, struggling to find the thread of reality, coughing up bloodied bits of tissue from his lungs, heart, and throat. The final moments of Charles Reye’s life were not particularly pleasant. Charles, in his by-now common state of disrepair, was lying in bed trying desperately to sleep. Valencia walked in with various medicines and some food, although he did not initially register her presence. “…Failure. . . Camila. . . Val…” Charles’ words were as grim as they were unhinged, not much more than the ramblings of a dying man. Still, she’d attempt to reassure him. “Charlie… You did no such thing” Charles' eyes were glossed over, filled with tears, not seeming to process much, if any, information. He paused his rambling, asking a single, trembling question. “C-Camila? Where is your mother, I need to speak to he-” He cut himself off, realising something. “No… No, you're dead… I killed you, it was my fault.” Suddenly, the half-blind man became enraged, reaching to the dresser for his aurum dagger, determined to kill the ghost before him, yet, he failed. He kept scrambling for the instrument, every time failing to reach it. More tears only filled his eyes, as Charles began sobbing. “I'm so sorry, my daughter. I failed you” “You didn't fail me. I promise” regardless of who she was speaking as, herself or Camila, the words were true. His sobbing turned to a cough, growing increasingly violent until a small pool of blood had formed on the sheets. It mixed with Charles’ tears, forming a diluted stain which both of them tried to ignore. He looked to Valencia, a hint of recognition dawning on his face. How much recognition was tough to tell, but Valencia would most likely notice an expression which the marred, harried face had shown her so many times over the years. Love. “I should have married you,” he whispered, breathing heavy and staggered. Valencia took Charles’ hand in hers clasping it tightly, bringing it over her heart. “But you did. In here.” She thumped it once. “You're my husband, and I'm your wife. We always have been.” “I don't want to leave you, my love.” Charles, now lucid again, could feel tears well in his eyes once more. “I don't want to die, not yet….” - “I can't stop thinking about our daughter, Val. I should have been there for her, I should have protected her… Now I'm leaving you too, and I don't know if I can do that. And Felipe… GOD, that poor boy.” “There is nothing you could have done to save her” - “You aren't… leaving us. You are just taking a different form.” “A different form… I like that,” he chuckled. Valencia aiding in wiping his tears away, clearing his throat with a few more, thankfully blood-less, coughs. “I- I should get some rest,” he mumbled. “Thank you, my love. For everything you've done. I'll see you in the morning?” Charles then shuffled around, attempting to get comfortable amid his burns. He fell asleep with his hand in Valencia’s and died in her arms.

MC Name: KABOU_HS Discord: Jayphynph Image: Description of Image: Campaign poster for mayor of Elizabeth Dimensions: 1x1

✠ As Penned by the House von Rhoswald ✠ Steps of the Cathedral of St. Raguel, M. Kaba Halcourt UNTO THE REALM, On this day, the 4th of Godfrey’s Triumph, the House von Rhoswald happily announces the union of Master Daniel von Rhoswald, Lord Mayor of Elizabeth, and his betrothed, the Mistress Brianna. We extend an invitation of celebration unto the good people of Alba and the citizenry of the Empire. In the month of Horen’s Calling, the couple shall be united in holy matrimony within the hallowed halls of the Cathedral of St. Raguel, after which the celebrations shall spill forth into the streets of Elizabeth, that all may join in revelry and good cheer. ITINERARY Ceremony - St. Raguel’s Cathedral (3pm EST) Join us, one and all, within the city’s cathedral and chapel for the ceremony and exchange of vows. Festivities and Celebrations - The Rhoswald Tavern and Inn (Just after) After the ceremony, the wedding party will move to the Elizabeth tavern, where food and drinks will be served, and celebration and revelry fill the air! INVITATIONS Formal invitations go out to… Their Imperial Majesties, Emperor Tiberias I and Empress Circe and their Imperial household His and Her Royal Highness, the Prince Edward and Princess Cecily of Alstion and their Princely household The nobles of Alba and the Empire His Excellency Manfred von Berkhoven, and his esteemed household The Hausgarde of von Rhoswald family The Citizenry of the Empire The Citizenry of Alba Personal invitations go out to… Clemens and Mirabel Aldersberg, and their Noble household Kaba Halcourt, and her esteemed household Adel Al-Rashid, and his esteemed household Larkin Mack Winburgh, and his esteemed household Malna Loa’chil S I G N E D, Daniel von Rhoswald, Lord Mayor of Elizabeth Brianna

Daniel von Rhoswald had had a busy day. In the morning he had collected a letter from the aviary, though he had scarcely begun reading it before his duties as Mayor demanded his attention. He folded the note, tucking it away in his pocket. He'd read it later. Then later came. The sun was high in the sky, the city bustling with trade and spontaneous conversation. Daniel was still in mourning, after all, his mother had only recently died in his arms. Still, he was keeping himself blissfully busy, using the hustle and bustle of Elizabeth to distract himself from grief. The funeral would happen soon, and with it, peace. He stumbled upon the paper in his pocket. He'd read it later. Orange hues marked the sky, a sign for Daniel to finally make his way home and end the day. As he collapsed on the couch, as always neglecting to eat, he heard a crinkle. Curiously, he reached into his pocket to retrieve a letter he had completely forgotten about. He opened the note, unfolding the by-now tattered paper. Perhaps it was a housing request, a business pursuit to entertain or a-- He paused, reading the words carefully. Then reading them again. And again, and again, scarcely believing his weary eyes. It was Elmera's handwriting, he eventually confirmed, though the contents of the letter only opened more questions. Why did Elmera think herself a failure? Why didn't she talk to him about this? Why...? Daniel's older sister was dead, a revelation that would not dawn on him until the next morning. Daniel von Rhoswald cried himself to sleep that night, an increasingly common occurence. When he woke, he'd find the paper crumbled and torn, covered in dried tears. They didn't even have a body, he thought to himself. Still, he now had to plan a funeral for two.

Daniel Andres von Rhoswald, Denny's younger son and namesake, gently closed his mother's eyelids as he felt the pulse fade from her wrists. WIth trembling hands, he removed her cloak, using it cover her face. Daniel was on his knees as he softly wept, the tears falling from his eyes mixing with the rain falling from the heavens which now housed his mother. Soon, he'd carry her body alone back to the city for cremation. She'd be buried in the graveyard which was home to his father, the husband Denny had not seen in 26 years. In the coming days, he'd spot her in the little things that popped up during his busy days. In the taste of berries, the content sounds of the sleeping foxes that now inhabit his home. At least she didn't die alone. At least she's with father now...

Charles Reye slowly approached the body. The corpse of a woman he had seen grow up, who he had called daughter and whose children called him grandfather. Every step echoed throughout the room, thundering in his mind. The covered slab seemed to shake and whir, clouding his vision, an effect only worsening with each step as the aging man drew closer. Finally, he dared himself to lift the sheet from Camila's face... She seemed so... peaceful, he thought to himself. Despite the massive gash on the back of her head and bite marks on her body, she almost looked to be sleeping. Nevertheless, Charles collapsed on the floor at the sight, immediately breaking into tears. "I'm so sorry, my child..." - "I'm so sorry," was all he could say through the cascade of grief and pain now falling from his eyes. After what felt like an eternity, Reye managed to rise to his feet, looking Camila in the eyes. He took a deep breath, muttering a prayer before covering his daughter's face with the sheet once more. Beyond the many preparations for the funeral, Charles would have to sharpen his sword and tune his bow. He was going hunting, after all.

The campaign for Mayorship of Elizabeth for Daniel von Rhoswald Issued on the 5th of Owyn’s Flame 2036 To all good citizens and denizens of the city of Elizabeth! The time for elections for mayor has come, and the future of our fair city is once more in your hands. Each soul who stands in this race brings something unique, be it their values, vision, or bond with the good folk of Alba. For nearly a decade, I’ve run the bustling tavern at the heart of our town, serving more drinks than I can count and hearing the hopes, dreams, and troubles of the people of our city. I’ve learned many lessons and gained much experience. If chosen as mayor, I shall continue to listen, take counsel and place the thoughts and wishes of these wonderful people at the forefront of my decisions and plans. The construction and improvement of public works: The existing public infrastructure in the city of Elizabeth is in dire need of improvement. Our school remains empty, the shelves or our library unstocked and the clinic in constant need of supplies. Should I be elected mayor, rectifying this would be a priority, as would the construction of new public works such as a town hall for consistent meetings, public gardens for the leisure of the citizenry, including statues and memorials of important events and people in our city’s history, as well as an orphanage. Promoting your voice: Your voice has a right to be heard, and as such I plan on holding regular town meetings where the Elizabethan denizens can come to hear the latest news, make their opinions known and give feedback on the running of the city. Promotion of businesses and housing; The vendors and businesses of Elizabeth are paramount to its continued success and expansion. The stalls and shops of Alba are paramount to the city’s prosperity, and the rights of industrious citizens should reflect this. Furthermore, maintaining steady growth and keeping housing open newcomers will only add more life to our already vibrant city! Why vote? As residents and citizens of Elizabeth you have a voice and a right to for it to be heard. Whoever you may vote for in this coming election, exercising this right is your chance to directly impact the city around you! Lastly, I’d like to wish my fellow candidates the best of luck. I am certain that whoever emerges victorious shall bring a unique and successful vision to the future of our beloved city. S I G N E D,

Daniel von Rhoswald, who may or may not have introduced the couple, could feel his face slowly turn in a wide smile, as glee filled his soul at the news.

I don't, but when necessary, rectangles. I don't really have any, but I think the animals do, and in that case, they're the ones that should be listened to. I can :D I would sooner delve into the fires of Hades. Hmmmm... Deceptively friendly...

I am a very big fan of English winegum and caramel!

I have not, no xD

When I first joined, I had a lot of questions, too many to pinpoint an exact one, but if I could go back in time, I'd tell myself to just take things as they come and trust that my questions would be answered. My advice to new players would be something similar; trust yourself, go with the flow and see what happens. And don't be afraid to reach out to those around you who want to help answer the no doubt many questions you have. Before you know it, you'll be one of those people yourself! I don't believe I have a favourite, although I'm really enjoying playing on my self-exiled prince Matthias. He's had a long and complex story full of self-doubt and failure, but he still persists in his goal of finding happiness. I'm very interested to see how his story continues! The same goes for Charles and Daniel, although being younger, Daniel no doubt has more in store in his future. Somewhat oddly, I really enjoy the nights of staying up for hours (European timezone go brrr) and just letting the RP flow for itself. Losing track of time playing games with your friends is always fun, and LotC can be a great avenue for that!

I made my forum account exactly 1 year ago on this day, so thought a brief post might be in order. In my time on this server I've had the pleasure of meeting many amazing people, had a lot of sleepless nights of RP, and had a lot of fun! Not everything has been sunshine and rainbows, I've gone through a ton of personal issues, but have never felt unwelcome on this server or in this community. So, 1 year... I'm excited to see where thing go from here! While I don't know how many questions I'll get, I thought I might as well do an AMA, couldn't hurt!

What’s your favourite colour? Alternatively, what is the capital of Assyria?

Issued on the 5th of the Amber Cold, 2029 Join us, good people of Aevos! In the heart of the duchy of Alba, in the city of Elizabeth, the Rhoswald Tavern & Inn finds its place in the world. Come indulge, revel, or merely socialise in our warm atmosphere, truly welcome to any and all goodfolk! Our drinks are sourced from surrounding vendors, giving visitors a wide range of options, while our foodstuffs, sweets, and non-alcoholic beverages are made fresh in house! Alcoholic drinks: 2 types of Wine, sourced from the Crooked Coin Company - 2 minae Cider, sourced from the Crooked Coin Company - 1.5 minae 2 types of Whisky, sourced from the Crooked Coin Company - 2.5 minae White and brown rum, from the Kingsley Company - 2 minae Ale, from the Kingsley Company - 1 mina Soju, courtesy of An Cheong-Won - 2 minae Non-alcoholic beverages: Cinnamon Hot Cocoa, infused with vanilla - 1.5 minae Coffee, mixed with dark chocolate - 1.5 minae Herbal Nettle Tea - 1.5 minae Apple and Orange Juice - 1 mina Shikkhae, courtesy of An Cheong-Won - 1.5 minae Assab Juice, Mint Tea and Qirfa Tea courtesy of the Al-Rashid family - 1 mina Food: Charcuterie Board + your choice of wine - 5 minae Bear Meat Burger - 3 minae Dragon's Wings - 3 minae Roast Pheasant - 3 minae Pulled Pork Sandwich - 3 minae Venison Ribs - 3 minae All meals served with sides, ask a barkeep for more! Specials: Rhoswaldian Ouzo - 2.5 minae Honey Pie and Sweets - 3 minae Ask for specific specials, you never know what we might have in our stores! Rooms go for 5 minae/month or 25 minae/year

Daniel von Rhoswald, Raenisa's brother in all but blood, was sitting idly in the tavern, nursing his hand and going over the ledgers and numbers for the past weeks. As the horse trotted into the courtyard in front of him, he perked up, just as the body fell. He immediately rose from his seat, rushing over. "Are you okay?" He bid, at first not recognising the bloodied corpse. Though, as she spoke her final words and her face came into view, a horrified Daniel realised Raenisa's identity. The young woman who had been missing for some time, who he had grown up with, now lay silent upon the cobbles, naught but darkness in her lifeless eyes. He sank to his knees, panicking to fix it, mend the wounds, do anything at all, but to no avail. "Nononononono," was all the innkeeper could muster to say, growing increasingly erratic and distraught. "You're gonna be okay- You're gonna be okay..." The grim words echoed in his mind, if only for himself, as Raenisa of White-River slowly faded from this life. At last, he gave up, letting out a somberful cry which could be heard throughout the town of Elizabeth. His sister was dead, and he now had to tell the news to her family...

Charles Reye pondered what to give the boy, as he eagerly prepared for the festivities.

As Matthias Keen learned the news, sorrow and mourning befell him like a storm ravaging the mountain tops. Yet, all he could muster was the quiet weeping of a man who had lost his sister. For the following weeks, he'd perk up every time he heard the cries of a bird, only to suddenly be reminded of his grief. He'd spend many days isolated in his room in mourning, the church in prayer, and even the tavern in solemn remembrance, awash with self-pity. So many of his friends had lost so much due to the war, and he now found himself mourning a dear friend. His sister in all but blood.

The Marring of Matthias Julius Keen Issued on the 2nd of Sigismund’s End in the Year of our Lord 2019. Matthias Keen was not a stranger to the dark corners that linger in one’s mind. Yet, as he found himself crippled and scarred in the Hyspian clinic, with nothing but time to think, he began to form a greater appreciation for the depths of darkness he was capable of. As was habit by now, the young Keen had found himself in Hyspia, taking in the sunset by the foot of the Royal Palace. Tidings had reached him earlier that day; Hyspia was to be declared a Kingdom. While not participating in the celebrations, he could not help but smile softly at his friends’ newfound status. Yet, as the day ended and the Hyspians returned to their beds to rest, he found himself alone in the dark. Or at least he wished he was… A lone, armoured rider approached him as he took in the night sky and brilliant stars. He introduced himself only as Aldwin of Ildon, asking Matthias where he was from and projecting a largely friendly demeanor behind his helmet. Yet, Matthias could not help but feel dread. For Alwin of Ildon was clearly not of Holy origin. Matthias sighed, as the rider demanded his possessions and, realising he could not win the fight, decided the small purse in his pocket was not worth the trouble. This creature, however, was not after worldly possessions; rather, he desired Keen’s soul, offering to trade for it. A sudden spar Naturally, such a preposterous offer was immediately denied. Noting the stranger’s spear and what looked to be a mace, as well as his heavy armour, Matthias decided to strike first. He drew forth his longsword, lunging at Alwin before he could react. He tried to shimmy his blade through any gaps in the armour, but to his dismay only succeeded in denting the chestplate. As Alwin reached for his spear, Matthias now slammed his sword into its outreached shoulder, drawing a bit of blood. His initial success was, however, short lived; Alwin swung his spear toward the unarmoured Matthias, in such a manner to bring him off balance, forcing Keen to reset his position. Having lost his momentum, he now fell into the long-ranged weapon’s optimal range. “I never truly die!” The creature’s hushed voice was echoed by a thousand screams emanating faintly, but ever so loudly, from its chestplate. The screams stunned Matthias for a moment too long; he had never encountered such a creature before, and his surprise would prove fatal, for Alwin now slashed his spear upwards, violently ripping a tear into Keen’s cheek, splitting his face open. He wobbled for a moment, delicately touching the wound, which by now was oozing blood, staining his clothes a deep Gules. Matthias fell to his knees, wearily leaning against the hillside. “At least I didn’t go down without a fight,” he somberly chuckled. “Do what you must.” With this, Alwin of Ildon brought down a heavy elbow toward Keen’s head, knocking him cold instantly. The mind’s crypt Matthias realised to his horror that his life was now in the hands of this darkspawn. The blood seeping from the gash in his cheek slowly dyed the surrounding lawn, and Matthias Keen felt himself be lifted. What he did not know was that a piece of his soul was at this very moment being sapped from deep within him. The spirit of Matthias’ soul looked down upon his body in disbelief. Looking around, the landscape of the Hyspian capital had changed; warm, vibrant colours looked desaturated and dull, and save for his own body, nobody was to be seen. A feeling began to creep up on him, one he had not felt for over a decade. The sun set once more over Hyspia, clouded by dark creatures, thousands of them overwhelming Nueva Vida. They all melted, twisted, screamed in unison, forming one cosmic force. He stared into the void in disbelief, a thousand red eyes meeting his gaze; mocking him. The darkness only got closer. It crept up around him, until naught but a black nothingness did block his vision. Matthias breathed heavily, before feeling the nothing encroaching even more. He tried screaming for help, flailing around, yelling mindlessly, but nothing worked. His mouth was filled by the darkness then his throat, his lungs, and before long Keen’s entire body was nothing but darkness pressing against his organs. He tried to scream once more, but realised that he could not make a sound. Not that it would have mattered, for no one was around to save him. There he drifted, floated for what felt like a hundred years, merging evermore with the darkness. There, the thousand eyed demon, ever vicious and mocking, now held absolute authority. “You failed,” it laughed. “You failed them all.” The voice had no humanity, no empathy, no discerning features. It felt as though it came from every direction at once, consuming him whole. Pictures of bygone memories began to flood before Matthias’ eyes at a rapid pace. Madame Heylise, Lorelei the Younger of Enswerp, his father, his mother, his friend Amarantha. He attempted to scream out to them, pleading for help, but they just stood still looking at him, appearing in flashes everywhere and nowhere before disappearing just as quickly, for darkness is a canvas which the mind never fails to paint upon. He felt tears stream down his face, the ever present feeling of hopelessness draining his very spirit, growing stronger by the second. Awakening Until he didn’t. Slowly, by some miracle, the pressure upon his innards faded, the grip around his throat and limbs loosening. Suddenly, he began to see again. His body now lay in the clinic, being tended to by a frantic, yet controlled, Anacleta Leomonte. He tried calling out to her, and in shock noted the lips of his body mirroring his own. “Anacleta? How?” “Don’t move. And drink this,” she replied. Matthias helplessly looked on as his limp body was raised by the Leomonte, before practically shoving a pain relief potion down his throat. As the liquid entered Keen’s gut, the darkness began to subside once more. “YOU FAILED THEM!” The demon was now no more than an inch from his face, all thousand eyes fixed directly upon him. It laughed viciously as Matthias’ soul was forced back into his body. He awoke with a scream, and although Anacleta barely flinched, the cry could be heard resonating across the entire capital. Aftermath The rest of the day was but a blur for the young Keen. He had heard something about templars or shamans, but was not in a state to process. As such, he found himself with nothing but time to think. Think about his place in Hyspia, in Ivöria, his homeland, in the world at large. And his place within his own mind. What Matthias’ did not yet know was that these waking nightmares were not going to stop anytime soon. He would find himself with a sickly malaise for a whole year, a large painful malflame burn on his back, and a large, deep scar on his face. He arose from the gurney, using a cane to support himself as he walked into the town square. He looked to the palace with furrowed brows and a worried demeanor. His emotions were at once a jumbled mess, and entirely clear. He knew what he wanted. He knew his place in the world.