Twin Cities
Established
Roleplay posts: 26
Registered: Mar 23, 2021 20:31:28 GMT -5
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Post by Twin Cities on Mar 23, 2021 20:39:54 GMT -5
The two settlements have made some significant developments since the people first landed. Houses of wood and thatch make home for the dwellers, their coast dotted by small piers and a few dockyards for the fishing fleet assembled. A long cable stretched from one end to another has ferries pulled across with people and goods, while great swathes of trees have been cleared for both farms, but also to make defences. Stretches of clearing make kill-zones for the crossbowmen standing in earthworks guarded by stakes; off of their ends hang the lifeless corpses of bandits, pirates, raiders, criminals and other ne'erdowells that had a go at the settlements.
The settlements for now have two marvels. First, Valland University, a place for higher education deemed a critical component for the long term prosperity of the city. The other is the Cathedral of Saint Lars of Kordua, a wooden construct of the Cleric eternally burning in sacred effigy.
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Vidkun Wewelsburg
Established
Roleplay posts: 42
Appearance: It seems most people who met him have had a varied account of exactly how Vidkun looked.
Registered: Mar 22, 2021 15:25:25 GMT -5
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Post by Vidkun Wewelsburg on Mar 23, 2021 21:41:02 GMT -5
The north, which the Varan called Asgeir, had always been cold. Heavy snowstorms blanketed mountaintops and valleys alike. Freezing temperatures culled the rivers and created icy highways throughout the wintry forests and tundra. The nordic folk huddled around great hearths, spinning tales of their adventures. When the solstice came there would be time for celebration - feasts were held to commemorate the arrival of the spring, when the snow would met away and the ice unthawed. But spring never came. An impenetrable fog fell across the land, blotting the sun out entirely and casting Asgeir into perpetual darkness. The nights grew colder and howling winds cut to the bone. Was this the work of the Old Gods, the Varan wondered? Had the end times come? They confined themselves to their fate, and prepared to meet their gods. But all that came was the Flood. For as long as they could remember the Varan had ruled the oceans and rivers - their vessels carried the seafaring warriors far and wide. But now it seemed the sea would have its revenge. The Varan could do naught but watch their world sink before them. Survivors clambered into their longships and drifted through the bleak and miserable mists, only to be capsized by great tidal waves. Freezing temperatures trapped them all in icy prisons. That was what Ralf could remember. Unthawed, he awoke in the middle of a great ocean, carried by relentless waves throughout the mist. There was naught he could do but let the sea thrash him about for what seemed like an eternity. But there came a day when the mist finally cleared, and a placid calm followed. The exhausted Varan adventurer caught sight of land and did not hesitate to swim closer. And there were other swimmers among him - had they been there all along? Had the mist concealed them? At first a handful, then dozens, then countless others began to converge on the coasts. His feet kicked at the watery depths, carrying him closer and closer, until finally he could feel the sand beneath him. The relieved and weary Varan trudged through the salt water until he came upon the beach and fell to his knees. Land, at last. They were many, those who had washed up with Ralf. The iceberg that Vidkun drifted ashore in was intact by the time it came upon the water, but already within it he had begun to thaw. It was a horrible experience, as there was very little oxygen in his frozen prison; he had to twist and turn and use his tongue as a blade to reach a small pocket of air once consciousness was restored, one that lasted him just long enough as he drifted upon sand. There he struggled for about an hour until the ice around him shattered. He was very cold but nevertheless grateful to be alive. More and more people drifted up, and as they all came to he politely tipped his hat to each that caught his gaze before flashing a charming smile. There was one arrival he recognized however, and that was old Ralf. Naturally the Varan would not have heard of Vidkun - his kinsman - but Ralf was a fairly known name. Standing up from the rock he had been sitting up Vidkun walked over to the man, putting a hand on his shoulder. "Rise, kinsman! You live, it is a good day is it not? I think we have a lot of work to do, and we best get to it fast!"
Vidkun would help pull the man upright after offering him his hand, shaking it in the process. "You are Ralf Valgard, well met! Allow me to introduce myself kinsman. I am Vidkun Wewelsburg, at your service." he stated, combining the words with a polite bow. Apparently getting comfortable with his personal space far too fast, Vidkun put his arm on Ralf's shoulder leading him across the sand. "I won't bother recounting to you what happened, we both know. What matters is where we are. See that couple?" he asked, pointing a pair of young people squabbling. "They are Egyszers. Those?" thus pointing to another group. "Wickans. I have also seen Theodosians, Westerlings, Easterlings, Vessischers, Audrians. I have a gift for languages, I can communicate freely with all of them. But as a whole? They cannot speak to one another, they are all frightened disparate people. We need to unite them." he stated, throwing his arms out wide to encompass all the people before him. Then the strange man rummaged in a pouch and produced a telescope that he threw to the Varan warrior, pointing across the water. "Then of course, them. I'm a good speaker, but I am not a leader. You may not be either, but people know you, and thus at the very least it will give them an illusion they have a great leader in this crisis."
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Ralf Valgard
Committed
The White Wolf
Roleplay posts: 67 
Equipment: Ancestral Sword: An ancient sword passed down in the Valgard family for generations. It is made of a dark, unknown metal. Ralf could potentially channel magical powers through the blade, but he has yet to discover the possibility.
Steel Longsword: Ralf's preferred weapon of choice.
Hirhanic Shield: Ralf's special shield, a gift from his friend Hirhan. It can absorb magical attacks and kinetic energy, to be redirected at his will.
Mariah's Dagger: A magical dagger than can sap magical power from opponent's. Taken from the corpse of Mariah.
Ki'Gar: A traditional garment worn by the Varan. Ralf wears his like a scarf, but other Varan may wear them as capes, sashes, head-dresses, and more. Ralf's is blue, with white trimming, and white wolf's head in the center. The name VALGARD is spelled beneath it. Ki'Gars are knitted from Buunvar hide, making them resistant to damage as well as fireproof.
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Skills and Abilities: Warrior: Ralf is a strong and capable warrior, preferring to use a sword-and-shield combination in combat. Ralf's fighting style focuses on speed, agility, and opportune striking. He wields his sword and shield with impressive dexterity, and complements his style with the powers of his Hirhanic Shield.
Cure of the White Wolf: As per his bloodline, Ralf is cursed with a form of lycanthropy. He transforms into a werewolf, whose hide is nigh-invulnerable and resistant to damage. His speed, strength, and reflexes are greatly increased. Ralf has learned to repress his instincts, but he will unleash the creature if necessary.
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Biography: Ralf is the son of Volrun Valgard, the original heir to the throne of Valland. Volrun was killed in battle at Gripclaw Pass, but his lover Aesa Jojora returned to Asgeir pregnant. Ralf was born and his mother would rule as regent until he came of age.
Ralf, however, opted to travel the world in search of adventure, fame, and wealth. He also wanted to prove his worth, as his rivals criticized his bastard birth.
Ralf is well-traveled, and a highly experienced combatant, explorer, and survivalist. His friend Hirhan created the Hirhanic Shield for him. He also looted a magical dagger from the corpse of Mariah.
Ralf has opted to build a bustling trade hub for his people and allies on the Mistbourne Isles called the Twin Cities, straddling the Ildesian Strait.
Allegiances: Varan
Place of Residence: Twin Cities
Registered: Mar 21, 2021 21:05:09 GMT -5
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Post by Ralf Valgard on Mar 23, 2021 22:51:20 GMT -5
The Varan possessed a sense of kinship that bound them together. There was no word for 'stranger' in the Varan language, only one for 'foreigner' or 'brigand'. As far as they were concerned, they were all brothers and sisters. Thus, when Vidkun offered assistance, Ralf did not hesitate to reach out and pull himself up. Wewelsburg was correct that Ralf was well-known to the other arrivals. He was, after all, the heir to Valland, so the Varan would know him by his noble lineage. The others, including the Audrians, Egyszers, Wickans, and more would have heard of his exploits.
Taking in the information that Vidkun laid out, Ralf observed the other groups before using the scope to observe the horizon, where other survivors had washed ashore. "Well met, brother" Ralf responded in kind, "aye, I am Ralf Valgard, heir to Valland." Ralf looked over the group of individuals who began to converge on their location. Considering Vidkun's claim that he was multilingual and supposedly cultured enough to tell these groups apart, he said "the Old Gods must have blessed us, Vidkun, for our survival will be all the easier with someone as resourceful as yourself."
Ralf was still recovering from the journey. He was freezing, wet, somewhat dizzy, and still trying to catch his breath. But action was needed in these dire times, and Vidkun was right: these people needed to be united, and only a leader could do that. Ralf would step up, but in cooperation with Vidkun, he hoped. "Let's bring them together, then," he began.
"Food, water, shelter, warmth," he listed. They were the four essential needs for survival. "We should work on collecting wood first. It can be used to sharpen spears to catch fish, to build shelters, and to build fires. We should also send others inland to look for fresh water and other potential food sources. I can lead some of these people into the nearby wood to help in this." Ralf figured these basic necessities would steel the nerves of the shaken survivors.
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Vidkun Wewelsburg
Established
Roleplay posts: 42
Appearance: It seems most people who met him have had a varied account of exactly how Vidkun looked.
Registered: Mar 22, 2021 15:25:25 GMT -5
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Post by Vidkun Wewelsburg on Mar 24, 2021 15:09:26 GMT -5
"Pace, brother, pace. The lands are in spring, it is cold but if the people stick together nobody will freeze. Boxes of shipwrecked supplies are washing up left and right, even fragments of houses we can use. We are on the verge of something great here, something we shouldn't squander. We can stay here, devote all of our efforts to raising a settlement here, we will have a nice settlement of course but we will be swept into the footnotes of history by all the larger ones. Or...." he paused dramatically, once more looking across the water. "We can reach out to them. See what resources washed up for them,exchange what we have in excess for what they lack and vice versa. If we build are ties now, we may become one, and together we will be strong."
Vidkun pointed to a place in the water with a gloved finger. "I saw a longboat sink there, perhaps it was yours. It doesn't matter though, it will now be ours. If we pull it up and root around for some oars we will be able to go to our kinsmen there in no time. We will organize from thereon what needs to be done once we have taken stock of what we have, and we may prioritize what is needed more immediately. But remember, you are a leader now. Delegate! But before you can delegate, speak to them. Get them together before they all run off looking for their own new problems."
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Ralf Valgard
Committed
The White Wolf
Roleplay posts: 67
Equipment: Ancestral Sword: An ancient sword passed down in the Valgard family for generations. It is made of a dark, unknown metal. Ralf could potentially channel magical powers through the blade, but he has yet to discover the possibility.
Steel Longsword: Ralf's preferred weapon of choice.
Hirhanic Shield: Ralf's special shield, a gift from his friend Hirhan. It can absorb magical attacks and kinetic energy, to be redirected at his will.
Mariah's Dagger: A magical dagger than can sap magical power from opponent's. Taken from the corpse of Mariah.
Ki'Gar: A traditional garment worn by the Varan. Ralf wears his like a scarf, but other Varan may wear them as capes, sashes, head-dresses, and more. Ralf's is blue, with white trimming, and white wolf's head in the center. The name VALGARD is spelled beneath it. Ki'Gars are knitted from Buunvar hide, making them resistant to damage as well as fireproof.
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Skills and Abilities: Warrior: Ralf is a strong and capable warrior, preferring to use a sword-and-shield combination in combat. Ralf's fighting style focuses on speed, agility, and opportune striking. He wields his sword and shield with impressive dexterity, and complements his style with the powers of his Hirhanic Shield.
Cure of the White Wolf: As per his bloodline, Ralf is cursed with a form of lycanthropy. He transforms into a werewolf, whose hide is nigh-invulnerable and resistant to damage. His speed, strength, and reflexes are greatly increased. Ralf has learned to repress his instincts, but he will unleash the creature if necessary.
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Biography: Ralf is the son of Volrun Valgard, the original heir to the throne of Valland. Volrun was killed in battle at Gripclaw Pass, but his lover Aesa Jojora returned to Asgeir pregnant. Ralf was born and his mother would rule as regent until he came of age.
Ralf, however, opted to travel the world in search of adventure, fame, and wealth. He also wanted to prove his worth, as his rivals criticized his bastard birth.
Ralf is well-traveled, and a highly experienced combatant, explorer, and survivalist. His friend Hirhan created the Hirhanic Shield for him. He also looted a magical dagger from the corpse of Mariah.
Ralf has opted to build a bustling trade hub for his people and allies on the Mistbourne Isles called the Twin Cities, straddling the Ildesian Strait.
Allegiances: Varan
Place of Residence: Twin Cities
Registered: Mar 21, 2021 21:05:09 GMT -5
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Post by Ralf Valgard on Mar 25, 2021 18:03:56 GMT -5
Though Ralf had a hard time remembering exactly what happened prior to his thawing, he did remember capsizing beneath a tidal wave. It was very possible his ship was nearby, though full of water and at the bottom of the seabed. It would take some effort to pull it back to shore. But Vidkun's insistence on contacting other survivors was indeed crucial. Ralf made the decision to delegate responsibilities and tasks to the survivors first, and while they were establishing a camp he and Vidkun would work on pulling the ship afloat.
Ralf turned to the congregation to begin speaking. The Varan would, of course, understand him, as would many Vessians; only the ethnic groups belonging to southern or eastern groups find difficulty in his speech - but then, Vidkun could translate if necessary.
"Collect what supples you find along the shore," he told them. "Stockpile it - orderly - there," Ralf pointed towards a nearby clearing. "Afterwards we should focus on collecting lumber for spears, firewood, and shelter. Those of you who are experienced will spear as many fish as you can, while others will focus on starting a fire and building shelter."
Turning to Vidkun Ralf would say "perhaps we should see if rope washed ashore... something to tie onto the longship to pull it afloat. Unless you had something else in mind?"
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Vidkun Wewelsburg
Established
Roleplay posts: 42
Appearance: It seems most people who met him have had a varied account of exactly how Vidkun looked.
Registered: Mar 22, 2021 15:25:25 GMT -5
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Post by Vidkun Wewelsburg on Mar 28, 2021 19:44:56 GMT -5
Vidkun frowned. He had expected... well, more. A grand speech of course to give people hope and all that fluffy human nonsense. Perhaps he had more disconnect from his Varan heritage than he previously thought, having lived, learned and worked most of his life in Vessia. Ralf spoke in a practical manner, but one that people simply went along with rather than following.
"Rope washed ashore works kinsman. I'm sure we could find some. But that will take time and effort." The man cracked his neck and pointed to men with large builds that washed up Varan and Vessian alike. "You see I think we simply dive and pull, drag it as long as we can until we run out of breath and then drop it. Repeat ad infinitum until its on shore."
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Ralf Valgard
Committed
The White Wolf
Roleplay posts: 67
Equipment: Ancestral Sword: An ancient sword passed down in the Valgard family for generations. It is made of a dark, unknown metal. Ralf could potentially channel magical powers through the blade, but he has yet to discover the possibility.
Steel Longsword: Ralf's preferred weapon of choice.
Hirhanic Shield: Ralf's special shield, a gift from his friend Hirhan. It can absorb magical attacks and kinetic energy, to be redirected at his will.
Mariah's Dagger: A magical dagger than can sap magical power from opponent's. Taken from the corpse of Mariah.
Ki'Gar: A traditional garment worn by the Varan. Ralf wears his like a scarf, but other Varan may wear them as capes, sashes, head-dresses, and more. Ralf's is blue, with white trimming, and white wolf's head in the center. The name VALGARD is spelled beneath it. Ki'Gars are knitted from Buunvar hide, making them resistant to damage as well as fireproof.
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Skills and Abilities: Warrior: Ralf is a strong and capable warrior, preferring to use a sword-and-shield combination in combat. Ralf's fighting style focuses on speed, agility, and opportune striking. He wields his sword and shield with impressive dexterity, and complements his style with the powers of his Hirhanic Shield.
Cure of the White Wolf: As per his bloodline, Ralf is cursed with a form of lycanthropy. He transforms into a werewolf, whose hide is nigh-invulnerable and resistant to damage. His speed, strength, and reflexes are greatly increased. Ralf has learned to repress his instincts, but he will unleash the creature if necessary.
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Biography: Ralf is the son of Volrun Valgard, the original heir to the throne of Valland. Volrun was killed in battle at Gripclaw Pass, but his lover Aesa Jojora returned to Asgeir pregnant. Ralf was born and his mother would rule as regent until he came of age.
Ralf, however, opted to travel the world in search of adventure, fame, and wealth. He also wanted to prove his worth, as his rivals criticized his bastard birth.
Ralf is well-traveled, and a highly experienced combatant, explorer, and survivalist. His friend Hirhan created the Hirhanic Shield for him. He also looted a magical dagger from the corpse of Mariah.
Ralf has opted to build a bustling trade hub for his people and allies on the Mistbourne Isles called the Twin Cities, straddling the Ildesian Strait.
Allegiances: Varan
Place of Residence: Twin Cities
Registered: Mar 21, 2021 21:05:09 GMT -5
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Post by Ralf Valgard on Mar 28, 2021 20:16:25 GMT -5
Inspirational speeches would have to come later; for the moment, Ralf as more invested in the group's survival. As the attendants split into various teams and performed their tasks Ralf and Vidkun got to work on their own objective. The strongmen mustered by Wewelsburg assisted in gathering what rope could be recovered from the beaches. Shorter pieces of rope was tied together, and Ralf made note of the longer and stronger pieces of rope.
"I will swim out and dive below the water to see if I can find the ship," Ralf would tell the assembly as he tied the ropes around his waist. "When I have found it I will tie the ropes to her and we can start to pull her ashore." Ralf waded into the salty water, waves breaking against shins first and then his waist, until finally he was swimming towards the spot where he had thawed. Taking a deep breath the Varan descended into the sea, eyes open, looking around for any signs of his ship. His vision was blurry, and the salt burned his eyes, but he persevered and kept at it. But he was forced to return to the surface to regain his breath. After rubbing his eyes he descended once more, searching for signs of his wooden longship.
Not far away he could make out the mast of his ship. The sail had been furled before the longboat capsized so winds would not rip it open. Successful in locating the vessel he returned once more to the surface, took another deep breath, and descended again - this time swimming to the boat's starboard and bow - where he tied the rope securely. He returned to the surface one last time, the rope in hand, and began to swim back to shore.
Vidkun and the strongmen would have to wade into the water themselves to grab hold of the rope that Ralf brought them, but everything in place for the team to start pulling the longship ashore. Though he needed to rest, the Varan adventurer joined his brothers in the struggle to reclaim his ship.
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Vidkun Wewelsburg
Established
Roleplay posts: 42
Appearance: It seems most people who met him have had a varied account of exactly how Vidkun looked.
Registered: Mar 22, 2021 15:25:25 GMT -5
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Post by Vidkun Wewelsburg on Mar 30, 2021 20:17:56 GMT -5
"Prudent!" Vidkun reassured the man before him with a pat on his shoulder. "Good man." As Ralf set out Vidkun went off to speak to the many burly men who could help out, stopping a few times to remember how to say certain things in their language. But eventually teams were organized, which after a moment of hesistation Vidkun himself joined. He did not look the part of a working man with his silk neckerchief, leather attire, and a ring upon nearly every gloved finger.
But though he looked the part of a poncey bastard he was more than happy to assist after calculating the balance sheet of the situations' public imagery for himself. Though he cursed quietly as the water once again soaked the silken stockings beneath his trousers. He nodded to Ralf as he emerged from the water, grunting with effort as all the men heaved to retrieve the stricken vessel.
Eventually it was ashore, prompting Vidkun to take off his hat such that he could wipe sweat from his brow with a handkerchief. "Well done!" he said, his breath ragged after not having done such physical work since his early youth. "I spoke to the sailors among the folk here, they can help us get across. We have no oars but there's planks that can probably make do. Its now or never, we will be stronger together."
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Ralf Valgard
Committed
The White Wolf
Roleplay posts: 67
Equipment: Ancestral Sword: An ancient sword passed down in the Valgard family for generations. It is made of a dark, unknown metal. Ralf could potentially channel magical powers through the blade, but he has yet to discover the possibility.
Steel Longsword: Ralf's preferred weapon of choice.
Hirhanic Shield: Ralf's special shield, a gift from his friend Hirhan. It can absorb magical attacks and kinetic energy, to be redirected at his will.
Mariah's Dagger: A magical dagger than can sap magical power from opponent's. Taken from the corpse of Mariah.
Ki'Gar: A traditional garment worn by the Varan. Ralf wears his like a scarf, but other Varan may wear them as capes, sashes, head-dresses, and more. Ralf's is blue, with white trimming, and white wolf's head in the center. The name VALGARD is spelled beneath it. Ki'Gars are knitted from Buunvar hide, making them resistant to damage as well as fireproof.
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Skills and Abilities: Warrior: Ralf is a strong and capable warrior, preferring to use a sword-and-shield combination in combat. Ralf's fighting style focuses on speed, agility, and opportune striking. He wields his sword and shield with impressive dexterity, and complements his style with the powers of his Hirhanic Shield.
Cure of the White Wolf: As per his bloodline, Ralf is cursed with a form of lycanthropy. He transforms into a werewolf, whose hide is nigh-invulnerable and resistant to damage. His speed, strength, and reflexes are greatly increased. Ralf has learned to repress his instincts, but he will unleash the creature if necessary.
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Biography: Ralf is the son of Volrun Valgard, the original heir to the throne of Valland. Volrun was killed in battle at Gripclaw Pass, but his lover Aesa Jojora returned to Asgeir pregnant. Ralf was born and his mother would rule as regent until he came of age.
Ralf, however, opted to travel the world in search of adventure, fame, and wealth. He also wanted to prove his worth, as his rivals criticized his bastard birth.
Ralf is well-traveled, and a highly experienced combatant, explorer, and survivalist. His friend Hirhan created the Hirhanic Shield for him. He also looted a magical dagger from the corpse of Mariah.
Ralf has opted to build a bustling trade hub for his people and allies on the Mistbourne Isles called the Twin Cities, straddling the Ildesian Strait.
Allegiances: Varan
Place of Residence: Twin Cities
Registered: Mar 21, 2021 21:05:09 GMT -5
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Post by Ralf Valgard on Mar 31, 2021 22:36:55 GMT -5
Vidkun was eager to make contact with the survivors on the other side of the sound, and for good reason. Ralf shared the urge to achieve contact as well, but for his own more personal reason: his mother. Aesa Jojora, 'the One-Handed' as she was called, was one of many residents from Wulfenheim to board the longships prior to the Flood and the Freeze. But she was not among the local constituents. The Varan hid his worry, but deep down he was dying to learn the truth of her fate.
Thus, Ralf did not hesitate to find makeshift oars for the ship. The strongmen would have to push her onto her side to drain the water, but she remained seaworthy to Ralf's great pleasure. Such vessels could carry sizable crews, along with their belongings and provisions; they were capable of traveling down inland rivers and lakes, and even the open seas. These longboats were what allowed the Varan to raid, trade, and settle even the farthest reaches of the world. They were an important and integral feature of Varan culture.
As Vidkun and the others took their place inside the ship Ralf communicated with one of the Varan on the beach. He gave him instructions to keep the survivors organized, and ensure they were doing what they were told. He hoped that when they returned the group would have a sufficient camp set up.
"Let us sail," Ralf announced as he climbed into the longship. "Away we go!" Taking a seat, Ralf gripped his wooden plank and did his part to move the vessel.
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Vidkun Wewelsburg
Established
Roleplay posts: 42
Appearance: It seems most people who met him have had a varied account of exactly how Vidkun looked.
Registered: Mar 22, 2021 15:25:25 GMT -5
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Post by Vidkun Wewelsburg on Apr 3, 2021 23:39:54 GMT -5
Vidkun was glad that at last the boat was made seaborne with the improvised oars, and he happily hopped aboard taking one for himself. He made sure to sit at the back of course, wherein he could get away with a little slack compared to the other crewman. Ralf of course would not lose anything of his public image from being sweaty and smelly, but Vidkun knew it would be the death of his own. Further, he wanted to do some quick writing whilst they sailed. He had managed to scavenge some stationery and there. He had statecraft in mind, and already racing through his mind was a constitution, a flag, names of the settlements, everything a young statelet needed.
He was fast, any man that turned to look at him would find him rowing as hard as he could, only for the man to drop the plank to get back to writing furiously. If all went to plan, they would sail back to the other island with a flag ready and mounted on the head of the ship.
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Ralf Valgard
Committed
The White Wolf
Roleplay posts: 67
Equipment: Ancestral Sword: An ancient sword passed down in the Valgard family for generations. It is made of a dark, unknown metal. Ralf could potentially channel magical powers through the blade, but he has yet to discover the possibility.
Steel Longsword: Ralf's preferred weapon of choice.
Hirhanic Shield: Ralf's special shield, a gift from his friend Hirhan. It can absorb magical attacks and kinetic energy, to be redirected at his will.
Mariah's Dagger: A magical dagger than can sap magical power from opponent's. Taken from the corpse of Mariah.
Ki'Gar: A traditional garment worn by the Varan. Ralf wears his like a scarf, but other Varan may wear them as capes, sashes, head-dresses, and more. Ralf's is blue, with white trimming, and white wolf's head in the center. The name VALGARD is spelled beneath it. Ki'Gars are knitted from Buunvar hide, making them resistant to damage as well as fireproof.
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Skills and Abilities: Warrior: Ralf is a strong and capable warrior, preferring to use a sword-and-shield combination in combat. Ralf's fighting style focuses on speed, agility, and opportune striking. He wields his sword and shield with impressive dexterity, and complements his style with the powers of his Hirhanic Shield.
Cure of the White Wolf: As per his bloodline, Ralf is cursed with a form of lycanthropy. He transforms into a werewolf, whose hide is nigh-invulnerable and resistant to damage. His speed, strength, and reflexes are greatly increased. Ralf has learned to repress his instincts, but he will unleash the creature if necessary.
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Biography: Ralf is the son of Volrun Valgard, the original heir to the throne of Valland. Volrun was killed in battle at Gripclaw Pass, but his lover Aesa Jojora returned to Asgeir pregnant. Ralf was born and his mother would rule as regent until he came of age.
Ralf, however, opted to travel the world in search of adventure, fame, and wealth. He also wanted to prove his worth, as his rivals criticized his bastard birth.
Ralf is well-traveled, and a highly experienced combatant, explorer, and survivalist. His friend Hirhan created the Hirhanic Shield for him. He also looted a magical dagger from the corpse of Mariah.
Ralf has opted to build a bustling trade hub for his people and allies on the Mistbourne Isles called the Twin Cities, straddling the Ildesian Strait.
Allegiances: Varan
Place of Residence: Twin Cities
Registered: Mar 21, 2021 21:05:09 GMT -5
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Post by Ralf Valgard on Apr 4, 2021 18:13:11 GMT -5
Rowing was tiring business, but Ralf was determined to make it to the destination as quickly as possible. When the winds were favorable he stood up and set about unfurling the sail. As he was doing so he observed Vidkun dutifully working his makeshift oar. Wouldn't know it at first glance, he thought, but the fellow pulls his own weight!
The winds filled the dampened sail and carried the ship ever forward to the coast, allowing all aboard some much-needed rest. They could see the survivors moving about the shore, no doubt assembling their own camp, but they began to congregate once the longboat closed in. A number of Varan waded into the ocean to help pull the ship ashore -several of them rejoicing at the sight of Ralf.
"Ralf!? The White Wolf!" they exclaimed, welcoming him. Additionally several Vessians and Audrians were present, who were eager to greet Vidkun. The Men of the North were ecstatic to see familiar faces.
Ralf dispensed the greetings and began to inquire about his mother. "My mother - the jarlessa - where is she? Where?" he asked, almost frantic enough that it was unbecoming of him.
"Calm yourself, Ralf," one of the Varan spoke up. "Your mother was here, and she was well. But she led a party to look for more survivors. She will return in due time."
Ralf breathed a sigh of relief, "thank the Gods! We were lucky that my ship was still seaworthy. There are more survivors across the way - building a camp with what little resources they have." Looking around it became obvious that the survivors here were more numerous, like the supplies which washed ashore with them.
"Aye," the Varan replied, pointing in the direction of an overturned longship. "We are using the longship there as shelter, stockpiling fabric, food, and other supplies." Shrugging, the man continued, "we're all brothers in arms. We can share whatever we can spare, I suppose."
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Vidkun Wewelsburg
Established
Roleplay posts: 42
Appearance: It seems most people who met him have had a varied account of exactly how Vidkun looked.
Registered: Mar 22, 2021 15:25:25 GMT -5
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Post by Vidkun Wewelsburg on Apr 7, 2021 2:22:12 GMT -5
As they arrived upon the shore, Vidkun cheered whilst waving to his kinsmen upon the shore. As he stepped off he did the typical statesman motions of shaking men's hands, asking men how they were, so on and so forth. Of course he didn't know any of these blithering bastards but he nevertheless spoke to them like his own family. Vidkun was not wearing the hat that - at least in the lands of the Empire - all but identified him as a witch hunter, knowing amongst some of the men of or related to the Empire would see it as a point of contention. The man felt almost naked without the article of clothing that had been on his head more time than it had not. But to have his hair stir in the breeze was to some degree liberating.
With that out of the way Vidkun returned to Ralf and the Varan, once more switching to his old native tongue. "The camp back there lacks fire starting supplies. No tinderboxes, no flint lighters, nothing of the sort. If you have anything that could help out?" he said. The truth was this shortage was made up, Vidkun had already seen to it that there were several ways the Northern camp could get fires started, but if both groups saw they had a need for each other then it would solidify their unity earlier. "Anything your group needs, we'd be happy to provide it." he continued. Here was a critical element out of his hands, at least temporarily. If this camp didn't have a shortage of anything, then they would have no need for the other side and they'd thus feel as though they were doing charity in a time of their own crisis. However, here Vidkun's clandestine expertise would be most useful. If they had a lot of food, then he would ruin it. If they had a lot of tents, he'd quietly cut holes in them. A few people might suffer, perhaps die. But it would be in service of creating something far greater than themselves.
In the meantime he stole a roll of white cloth that lay upon a box whilst attention was elsewhere. Very soon he would make the grand proposal, or at least reveal his intent of it to Ralf.
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Ralf Valgard
Committed
The White Wolf
Roleplay posts: 67
Equipment: Ancestral Sword: An ancient sword passed down in the Valgard family for generations. It is made of a dark, unknown metal. Ralf could potentially channel magical powers through the blade, but he has yet to discover the possibility.
Steel Longsword: Ralf's preferred weapon of choice.
Hirhanic Shield: Ralf's special shield, a gift from his friend Hirhan. It can absorb magical attacks and kinetic energy, to be redirected at his will.
Mariah's Dagger: A magical dagger than can sap magical power from opponent's. Taken from the corpse of Mariah.
Ki'Gar: A traditional garment worn by the Varan. Ralf wears his like a scarf, but other Varan may wear them as capes, sashes, head-dresses, and more. Ralf's is blue, with white trimming, and white wolf's head in the center. The name VALGARD is spelled beneath it. Ki'Gars are knitted from Buunvar hide, making them resistant to damage as well as fireproof.
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Skills and Abilities: Warrior: Ralf is a strong and capable warrior, preferring to use a sword-and-shield combination in combat. Ralf's fighting style focuses on speed, agility, and opportune striking. He wields his sword and shield with impressive dexterity, and complements his style with the powers of his Hirhanic Shield.
Cure of the White Wolf: As per his bloodline, Ralf is cursed with a form of lycanthropy. He transforms into a werewolf, whose hide is nigh-invulnerable and resistant to damage. His speed, strength, and reflexes are greatly increased. Ralf has learned to repress his instincts, but he will unleash the creature if necessary.
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Biography: Ralf is the son of Volrun Valgard, the original heir to the throne of Valland. Volrun was killed in battle at Gripclaw Pass, but his lover Aesa Jojora returned to Asgeir pregnant. Ralf was born and his mother would rule as regent until he came of age.
Ralf, however, opted to travel the world in search of adventure, fame, and wealth. He also wanted to prove his worth, as his rivals criticized his bastard birth.
Ralf is well-traveled, and a highly experienced combatant, explorer, and survivalist. His friend Hirhan created the Hirhanic Shield for him. He also looted a magical dagger from the corpse of Mariah.
Ralf has opted to build a bustling trade hub for his people and allies on the Mistbourne Isles called the Twin Cities, straddling the Ildesian Strait.
Allegiances: Varan
Place of Residence: Twin Cities
Registered: Mar 21, 2021 21:05:09 GMT -5
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Post by Ralf Valgard on Apr 10, 2021 20:11:48 GMT -5
Ralf did not interject when Vidkun implied the northern camp lacked specific supplies. Whether the Varan approved of his cunning or not, he let Wewelsburg ply his worded trade.
With Vidkun's help Ralf would help allocate the southern camp's workforce. Survival was emphasized, but so to was permanence. As they prepared to re-board the longboat Ralf would speak to Vidkun: "the lands we once called home are no more. I do not know where we are, nor why we're here... but I feel confident to say that this world is not part of the one we left. This is... something new... and we shall do our best to exist here. Perhaps there are others who live further inland - perhaps others have washed ashore as we have - I do not know. But what I do know is that fate brought us here for a reason."
Ralf pointed westward, "the ocean spans beyond the horizon - who knows if other lands lie beyond." He then motioned eastward. "But the sea begins to calm eastward, which means it is enclosed. And this," he pointed back to the northern camp, "is at least one strait which acts as the entrance to the eastern sea." He looked at Vidkun with ambition, "it is a gateway. And fate has made us the gatekeepers."
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Vidkun Wewelsburg
Established
Roleplay posts: 42
Appearance: It seems most people who met him have had a varied account of exactly how Vidkun looked.
Registered: Mar 22, 2021 15:25:25 GMT -5
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Post by Vidkun Wewelsburg on Apr 12, 2021 0:36:26 GMT -5
With the secured rags and ink Vidkun was able to make a crude but legible first draft of a flag he wanted for this new civilization: an anchor with crossed swords upon it. Colours and such would be modified later but for now he had to mount it and upon a washed up broken lance he found a perfect item. When Ralf spoke to Vidkun the man raised an eyebrow in curiosity. When he was done speaking Vidkun looked on at his counterpart for a few moments longer, eventually nodding and smiling slyly. There was more than a smelly viking with a great deal of stories to tell before him, he... understood. Perhaps he could be more than just an aesthetic figurehead.
"Wise words kinsman. I have not spoken this to anybody else yet but you are correct. Within my frozen prison I saw that we were not the only ones who washed up to these lands. This is a large Isle, a round shape to which we have an entrance. There is another island further within now obscured by mists, but you will see when they clear. I am not a nautical man or at least haven't been one for years. But I can tell you we will have a unique role in the years to come here to which we must arise. Who better than stern hearts of the North to safeguard these waters and of course receive appropriate remuneration for it?"
Vidkun went back to the boat, jamming in the decorated lance. "We will return to our friends triumphant. And thus we planted the seed of our future."
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Ralf Valgard
Committed
The White Wolf
Roleplay posts: 67
Equipment: Ancestral Sword: An ancient sword passed down in the Valgard family for generations. It is made of a dark, unknown metal. Ralf could potentially channel magical powers through the blade, but he has yet to discover the possibility.
Steel Longsword: Ralf's preferred weapon of choice.
Hirhanic Shield: Ralf's special shield, a gift from his friend Hirhan. It can absorb magical attacks and kinetic energy, to be redirected at his will.
Mariah's Dagger: A magical dagger than can sap magical power from opponent's. Taken from the corpse of Mariah.
Ki'Gar: A traditional garment worn by the Varan. Ralf wears his like a scarf, but other Varan may wear them as capes, sashes, head-dresses, and more. Ralf's is blue, with white trimming, and white wolf's head in the center. The name VALGARD is spelled beneath it. Ki'Gars are knitted from Buunvar hide, making them resistant to damage as well as fireproof.
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Skills and Abilities: Warrior: Ralf is a strong and capable warrior, preferring to use a sword-and-shield combination in combat. Ralf's fighting style focuses on speed, agility, and opportune striking. He wields his sword and shield with impressive dexterity, and complements his style with the powers of his Hirhanic Shield.
Cure of the White Wolf: As per his bloodline, Ralf is cursed with a form of lycanthropy. He transforms into a werewolf, whose hide is nigh-invulnerable and resistant to damage. His speed, strength, and reflexes are greatly increased. Ralf has learned to repress his instincts, but he will unleash the creature if necessary.
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Biography: Ralf is the son of Volrun Valgard, the original heir to the throne of Valland. Volrun was killed in battle at Gripclaw Pass, but his lover Aesa Jojora returned to Asgeir pregnant. Ralf was born and his mother would rule as regent until he came of age.
Ralf, however, opted to travel the world in search of adventure, fame, and wealth. He also wanted to prove his worth, as his rivals criticized his bastard birth.
Ralf is well-traveled, and a highly experienced combatant, explorer, and survivalist. His friend Hirhan created the Hirhanic Shield for him. He also looted a magical dagger from the corpse of Mariah.
Ralf has opted to build a bustling trade hub for his people and allies on the Mistbourne Isles called the Twin Cities, straddling the Ildesian Strait.
Allegiances: Varan
Place of Residence: Twin Cities
Registered: Mar 21, 2021 21:05:09 GMT -5
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Post by Ralf Valgard on Apr 12, 2021 8:58:37 GMT -5
Ralf grinned when it seemed he and Vidkun were on the same page. "Varan seamanship... the expertise of the Vessians... it is as if we were meant for this."
Ralf observed the man planting the lance and flying the colors of a makeshift flag. There was an anchor with crossed swords - simple but relevant to the settlers' history, present, and future: seafarers, warriors, traders.
Ralf and the strongmen pushed the longboat back into the water and they set sail for the northern camp. He was disappointed that he did not get to see his mother, but at least there was hope she was still alive. He suppressed his grief and focused on more immediate matters. When they finally arrived back at the northern camp the sun was beginning to set.
The panoply of Vessians, Audrians, Varan, Theodosians, Westerlings, and others had cobbled together a sustainable encampment. A number of supplies had been stockpiled in the center of a small camp, composed of tents and practical shelters. Some of them had done their part to catch fish, or find fruits in the forest. The foundation for a future settlement lay before them, and all they needed now was to organize its layout.
For a moment Ralf thought of home: Wulfenheim - or in the Varan language 'Home of the Wolves'. "Wulfgardt," he said, overlooking the camp. "This shall be the city of Wulfgardt." He imagined a series of docks and quays on the southern beach, terminating into a warehouse and business district. Building restrictions would ensure the laying of parallel and straightened roads to improve the efficiency of logistics and freight storage. Further in the city traders, merchants, and artisans could sell their wares, and surrounding this market district a residential sector. Walls would be beneficial eventually, and beyond that land would be cut into farms.
An important feature, however, would be the construction of a castle, somewhere in the center, which would act as a bastion of defense against any would-be invaders. But all of this would come in due time. For now Ralf wanted to rest. And unless Vidkun had anymore to say, the Varan would take his place at the camp's bonfire and slowly doze off.
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