Breakfast of Champions [DM Jerry] Tuesday November 27th, 2007 1:09:54 PM
Breakfast has always been an important part of the Montdidier Family. But it wasn't just actual family that attended their huge breakfast events. It was everyone in the Fort that was not on duty!
The seats were not assigned, but habits form and you could usually see the old folk sitting near the fire and the young folk nearest to the door, making it easier for the kids to escape to play for a bit before their parents rounded them up to help work.
The entire fort as well as those working for the Wineries worked for 6 days a week and then were off for the 7th. During planting and harvest, no one got off, but Elisabetta always made it up to her employees once the busy days were over.
Elisabetta was the Duke of the 2nd Plateau of The Kingdom of New Elenna. She inherited it from her husband when he died a few years back.
The oldest of the kids, about whom our story is about, were sitting near the door talking and eating when our story begins...
----------- [feel free to post away for a few days. This lets you get to know your character as well as the others better and gets us started. Have fun! Please describe yourself, how you look, sound, mannerisms, etc. in your posting.]
Giacamo Giampiero Montpedier (GiGi) Tuesday November 27th, 2007 6:16:13 PM
Gigi as always sits as close to the end of the table as possible so that least scarred side of his face is facing those at the table. While not overly self-concious about the scars that cover his olive tone body he is aware of the reactions they often cause with those who are seeing them for the first time. His friends and family of course are very familiar with them but, habits die hard and since becoming a follower of Domi, he is far more aware of the distress caused to others by the littlest things. This is also the reason he keeps his black hair fairly long and loose, tying it back only for weapons practice and other more formal occasions. At age 16, he is about average in height at 5'10 but his body though scarred is well proportioned and extremely well muscled. Though to watch him move you might think he was half the size that he is until he pulled out his great sword for practice. Nearly always dressed in gray, with green trim, he is a quiet spoken and thoughtful young man, who seesm to be much more serious than his years should allow.
The plate in front of him hold enough food for at least three and as he eats he quaffs several tankards of clear cool water. Unaware that he is doing so, his left hand finds itself tracing one scar that from the corner of his eye to his earlobe and back again. He often does this when thinking deep thoughts during hich times he is not totally aware of what is going on around him.
Zita Montdidier(Zita) Tuesday November 27th, 2007 8:32:28 PM
Zita was seated just two seats away from GiGi and she was absently picking at her food that was on her plate. Her free right hand came up to brush back the coppery red hair from her right shoulder as she sighed. Everyone knows that she is the youngest of the Montdidier children and though she should be studying weaving or sewing that she will slip out as soon as the meal is done.
Her gray eyes scan the rest of the table and the few that she has come to call friends. Few would associate with her openly as she was part of the owner's family, though she was the youngest and a tomboy at that. With another sigh she stabbed a small potatoe and shoved it into her mouth and started chewing.
The clothes she had on were not the rich textures that you would expect, but earthy tones of brown and green. The tunic she wore was open some in the front to allow a cool breeze to cool her brown skin and she clicked the heel of her kneehigh brown boots upon the floor in agitation.
To be honest, at fifteen, she had not started to develop the same feminine roundness as her older sister. She has more of a dancers form to her, though tougher from the things that she does...and is not suppose to do.
Rosario Antonino Sylvius Tuesday November 27th, 2007 9:21:43 PM
The boy bounded in form outside. Just under 6' and just a bit shy of 200 pounds, Rosario was growing into quite a man. Rather plain looking with hazel eyes and short brown hair he was also a bit boistrous, sometimes rude or as he preferred honest. Rosario sat across from his sister Zita. Technically he was her cousin, a great unlce having married into the family after the three generations before him had serverd as trusted bodyguards to the house. That was a technicality that no one seemed to remember. Roy was Zita's older brother and as they grew, his responsibility for her well being, grew right along with them. Not that Rosario minded. He loved his family, and knew they loved him. Life was good. His skill with his fathers weapon, handed down 4 generations, was steadily growing as was his stength, speed and endurance.
Grabbing another helping, he shot a wink at his martial partner Giacampo and an easy smile. Rosario loved meal time, the food, the drink, the company and socialness of it all. his life was fairly carefree, his family wealthy and while his duties heavy. Really, this was the Plateau and his aunt was the Duke of the 2nd Plateau of The Kingdom of New Elenna. Life was really about enjoying himself. Well that and getting Gigi to loosen up a bit. You would think he was fixing to go to war.
Julien Alexander Henri Delacour Wednesday November 28th, 2007 2:56:59 AM
Julien is sat alongside GiGi, his head bent on studying an open book on the table. His narrow, elegant face holds a slight frown, and he is mouthing words silently; the fingers of his left hand are making tiny circles. Occasionally he gives an impatient sigh. "Stop that," he murmurs absently, his attention still on the book, as GiGi's hand traces the scar on his face. When Rosario bounds in, he closes the book and rolls his eyes, any semblence of peace and quiet now gone. He flicks an imaginary mote of dust from his velvet tunic and looks over at Zita. "Could you push over the bowl of potatoes," he asks her with a wink, "before Rosario gets his hands on them and scoffs the lot?"
Bendis Billingstone Wednesday November 28th, 2007 9:13:54 AM
A gangly-limbed, pot-bellied dwarf arrives at the table looking a little flustered and out of breath. He mops at his bald head with a spotted handkerchief and blinks good naturedly at the assembled youngsters from behind his half-moon spectacles. He has a long-stemmed pipe (unlit) protruding from a bushy chestnut beard, and carries a stack of thick books and assorted parchments under one arm. You know him well as Elisabetta Montdidier's bumbling new book-keeper.
He is wearing a crumpled dark purple velvet smoking jacket, with a quill poking out from one pocket. A dark wet ink stain is slowly spreading over the pocket. He clambers onto the bench, all elbows and knees, and you notice he is wearing a pair of green velvet carpet slippers with golden tassles. You can only assume he forgot to put his boots on.
"Hoof, huff, morning all, sorry I'm late, I was reading and lost track of time. Excuse me, careful, mind if I squeeze in here? Look out! Oh, sorry Rosario."
He attempts to dry off the parchment he dropped in Rosario's plate and peers up and down the table short-sightedly. "Um, are there any potatoes left?"
Grandma's Back! [DM Jerry] Wednesday November 28th, 2007 11:06:12 AM
One of the younger winery workers comes running into the great hall, right after Bendis, and also out of breath. He nearly bowls Bendis over to get into the room. He runs up to the nearest table and blurts out so all can hear:
"Grandma's Back!"
A roar of both excitement and perhaps even a bit of dread spread through the breakfast nook.
"I can't believe she's back!" "Doesn't she work for the Big Float Overlord?" "Maybe she's just visiting and she'll go away soon!" "Stop talking about Granny that way!" [much laughter after this] "Call her Mistress Adelina!" [more laughter] "Guess we'll get inspected today." "Yup. And it won't matter if things are ship-shape or not will it?" "Nope."
Gigi (Kent) Wednesday November 28th, 2007 7:38:14 PM
Gigi is pondering which of the unsavory duties he is going to be handed by the priests this morning when he hears, Julian's admonition and his hand freezes near his ear then drops to his lap. "You would think I would be used to these by now, the young cleric thinks to himself and sighs.
Looking up as Bendis comes bustling in Gigi smiles and passes the dwarf the platter of potatoes and gives both Rosario and Julian a nod.
When the young man comes charging in with news about Lady Adelina's arrival, a sudden cold pit of nervousness settles deep in the pit of his stomach. Not realizing he is speaking out loud he makes a quick comment to himself.
"Oh great, Great Aunt Adelina is here. What in the Wold did I do to deserve this? She is always on my case about something."
Looking up he turns to the others.
"Well there goes any thought of having a bit of free time later. I guess I'd better hurry up and report to the priests to see what needs being done."
Zita Montdidier(Zita) Wednesday November 28th, 2007 8:34:26 PM
Zita looks up and passes a secondary bowl of still slightly hot potatoes to Julien. "I don't think that he will eat that much." She glances to Rosario and with a slightly evil grin shakes her coppery red hair. "Then again...." She starts to laugh as she notices some of the others start to show up that had not been their earlier. Nodding her head to each she graces them with a smile.
She had just speared a piece of the pheasant that was on her plate when the runner came in and announced the arrival of Grandmother. Dropping her fork and groaning, she could not suppress the frown that soon took over her entire face. "Great...dresses for me today...lectures on my many scars...lectures on my tanned skin...questions on how my studies are going." With a heavy sigh and a louder groan she pushed her plate away...only half the morning meal finished.
She glances around to see if her twin brother, Tonio, was close by...but did not see him. "Why could I have not been born a boy." It is a complaint that all at the table have heard, at least a million times.
Betheas Wednesday November 28th, 2007 10:47:59 PM
A commotion begins toward the back the back of the tent. A large tent is always erected to host this periodic celebration of breakfast. The flap is thrown open to make way for Mistress Adelina's entrance. A small ceremonial phalynx enters from the bright morning sun, spreading to the left and right.
Some might notice the familiar face of Betheas, the Lift Guard to the next plateau. Today his duties have beed modified to accompany Mistress Adelina to the gathering.
For those that have not seen him as they come and go from the plateau, you notice a lean elf armed with a long glaive. His face is bare and thin. His brown hair is cropped short like the rest of the guard, and his uniform matches as well. Long almond shaped brown eyes create a foreign, if not alien look. Must be the job that brings him here.
His position places him facing the table of the young adventurers at the back.
He appears to be a very young adult... as elves go. Standing at attention; the other guards seem to be less enthusiastic about their role as Betheas does.
Julien Thursday November 29th, 2007 12:05:12 AM
The young, dark-haired human raises an eyebrow at all the commotion, picking up on the growing tension. So much apprehension preceding the arrival of the matriarch? Obviously they'd never had to deal with his Grandad. Although when he thinks about it, the lady no doubt knows his Grandad. He makes sure his book is tucked away under the table and tries to remember if he and some of the others had done anything recently that would incurr her wrath. Probably.
Bendis Billingstone Thursday November 29th, 2007 5:14:36 AM
The portly dwarf blinks at his companions, a potato halfway to his mouth. He is a relatively recent arrival at Fort Silence, and has yet to experience the force of nature that is Mistress Adelina.
That said, if she is anything like his own grandmother, Bertha Billingstone, she will have a face like weathered concrete, a tongue like a quickened vorpal blade and a temper to shake the roots of mountains. He shudders involuntarily at the memory of the woman.
"Um, I don't think I've ever seen you in a dress Zita. Is- is your Grandma really so frightening?"
Unnoticed by Bendis, ink drips from his pocket and onto the bench.
Rosario Thursday November 29th, 2007 7:16:52 AM
Rosario looked over at Bendis and than down at his now covered potatoes and then back. Probably not ruined but, "Oh good more fiber." he groans slightly and blanches a bit. "Be more careful." Across the table he just gives Zita a smile.
The runner hits and Rosario starts wolfing food into his mouth as fast as he can. Some gets chewed, most does not. Pointing a finger across the table as a thousand times before through stuffed lips, "M'fat's wight, and you bewer shwaighnen up Wida." swallow That gleam was in his eye, he loved when she came to visit. It always brought excitement and he felt a kindered spirit of mischieviousness with Nona. Not that she was, but the air of adventure just seemed to follow her. Rosario also knew he was one of the only people who probably felt this way.
He kept wolfing down food and drink...right up until the flap to the tent opens. The youth then forces anything in his mouth down in one hard swallow. Grabbing a cloth quickly, he wipes his mouth clean to be presentable. It was good to see Betheas got to come on this one. Even though Rosario was family by marriage, the Sylvius family still accompanied the Montdidier family members pretty much everywhere and so Rosario knew the young elf from some personal encounters but mostly through his older brother Antonino who even now was moving out of the formation of guard to greet thier father.
Farce [Jerry] Thursday November 29th, 2007 3:08:11 PM
Fausto Trappeto, usually just called by his nickname "Farce" comes in under the tent flap, across from Betheas and waves to the group as he snagged an apple and a cup of coffee from under the nose of one of the soldiers nearby.
He makes his way to the table and plops down.
"Hey."
He waves and motions for Betheas to come over.
"What's the fuss about?" he asks to no one in particular.
Farce wears a dusty cloak covering a colorful tunic, doubtlessly yesterday's evening wear. He sports the beginnings of a moustache, which is a rare thing for a young gnome, even a tall one with some human influx into his family tree. His voice is purposely gruff, but it is obvious most of it is an act. Of the bunch of friends, Farce has always been the most likely to land himself in the cellar. He is loyal to his friends though, taking the blame for all sorts of incidents that his friends had committed.
His pet phrase during such times is, "No prob. Builds my reputation."
He is Elisabetta's personal message boy, running all over the 2nd Plateau delivering wax sealed documents, oral instructions, etc. He never messes up during work, keeping his shanigans for downtime, when he gets some.
Gigi Thursday November 29th, 2007 6:17:27 PM
Gigi actually grins as Betheas makes his way into the tent, as he actually likes the elf and his enthusiasm for the every day thing. Giving a lighthearted salute to him as he takes up his position, Gigi chuckles as Farce comes in, late as usual. Makling room for him at the table, Gigi motions him over. Having grown up around Lady Elisabetta and the rest of the family, as a great nephew, Gigi saw and spent some time Fausto, as they were close in age and Gigi was just a distant relative and often not included in "Family" things. Next to Julian Farce is probably as close a friend as he has, even though he is not sure that he is in favor of the shenanigans that Farce seems to get himself into. As he sits down Gigi leans over.
"Lady Adelina is here and from the looks of things she may actually becoming to breakfast."
Zita Thursday November 29th, 2007 9:35:01 PM
From across the table she smiled to Rosario, but is quickly slips as she hears the comment from Bendis. "And you never will if I have my way about it." She looks up as the main flaps open and her Nonna steps into the room. As usual she is flanked by a small guard. Once again Zita moans as she cannot keep the nagging suspicion that she will soon be over the fire.
She glances around for a means of escape, though she will never take it. She nods to Farce as he comes their way. "Hey Farce." In one smooth motion she puts an apple in the air, aimed at Farce. Though he already had one...he would be open to another.
Julien Friday November 30th, 2007 2:40:42 AM
While they're waiting, Julien catches Bendis's attention. "Hey Bendis, I think I've cracked it," he says with a confident grin. Magic missile he mouths silently. That was no empty boast either, after nearly burning his fingers off on more than one occasion this last few days. Still, first of many, first of many. And even if he did end up helping his father run the merchant business, there'd be no one trying to swindle him. Not with a few more tricks like that up his sleeve. By all the zombies in the Shadowlands, what was that dripping out of the dwarf's pocket? "Bendis," he says once more, and points at the dwarf's clothing.
Farce Friday November 30th, 2007 12:50:32 PM
Farce sees one of the cleaning ladies bend over to pick up a mess and he simply stares.
"Wow. She's....OW!"
He rubs his ear. "What didja do that for Zita?
--------- "Scott, sending you Steve's work number via email. Bug him and get him to start posting. He told me he would on Wed. Hasn't yet. ;) He's going to need YOUR brand of encouragement."
Summons [DM Jerry] Friday November 30th, 2007 2:21:57 PM
A messenger, other than Farce, comes in running and jumps up on a table.
"I have a summons!"
He begins to read the summons.
"Elisabetta summons Bendis, Betheas, Zita, Gigi, Rasario, Fausto, and Julian to appear before her in Petition Hall at the third bell. Dress accordingly."
Laughter rings out across the tent.
"What has Farce gotten them into now!"
"They want Betheas too? Why does he run with them?"
"There's in for it now!"
"Better them than us!"
Several come by and slap various ones in the group on the back, wishing them sympathy and luck.
-------------
[3rd bell is 9AM. You have an hour to be there ready to present yourselves.]
Rosario Friday November 30th, 2007 3:26:48 PM Sweet Rosario can barely contain himself. Presentable though, wonder exactly what that means? A slap on the grinning boys back spins him, "Yea!" he exclaims to his older brother. Antonino grins back at his little brother "Don't get too excited. Not to dampen you but remeber what my first official duty was. That is all I am saying." Antonino then steps away.
Rosario turns back to the others in the message, the laughter and jibes completely forgotten and not heard really, "Anyone who needs a quick look over can use my room. I'm going right now!" excitement clear in his voice as Rosario has not heard his older brother's advice and with the forethought of a toddler, his plunges headlong into the now.
Rosario quickly moves to his father and takes his leave. Excited he may be, but Roasario would never put anything resembling disrespect towards his family.
Gigi Friday November 30th, 2007 6:41:52 PM
Back to contemplating what the priests are likely to have in store for him, Gigi is only half listening to what is going on around him when the messenger pops in and makes his announcement.
He sits up straight as it finally sinks in that his name and those around him were the ones being called.
"What?" he starts looking around at the others as if to see if what he heard was really what he heard. When he sees the confused looks and apprehension written across some of the others' faces. He eyes Farce a moment and then speaks.
"Farce, you have any idea why she wants all of us? You spend more time around her than we do. What do you know?"
Bendis Saturday December 1st, 2007 4:50:28 AM
The dwarf's bushy eyebrows shoot up as Julien whispers his news about the magic missile spell. Bendis has known the young man has been practising hard for some time now, but is impressed that Julien has finally got the spell to work. Try as he might Bendis has been unable to match the young man's progress in evocation magic. The whole field just seems to make his brain hurt, and the last time Julien tried to assist him Bendis managed to set fire to his own beard.
"Well done!" he smiles, nodding his head. "You know I think I might be making some progress too. I think I've figured out how to make that Sleep spell I've been working on affect other people instead of me!" Although, he reflects, his own version has proved a fabulous cure for insomnia.
He glances down when Julien points at his pocket, then groans as he fishes out a half-full , unstoppered inkwell from his pocket. "I wondered where I'd put that. Bother." He does his best to wipe his hands and pocket dry, but succeeds only in covering more things with ink.
It is with a sinking feeling, therefore, that he hears his name amongst those summoned. And dressed appropriately to boot! What can the great lady want with a simple book-keeper like him? He gazes folornly at his ink-stained hands, wondering what he can possibly wear. "Oh dear" he mutters, starting to feel that familiar flush of social panic. This is worse than being dragged to one of his family's interminable clan feasts. "Oh dear oh dear oh dear".
Betheas Sunday December 2nd, 2007 7:24:38 PM
Farce motions to Betheas to join the table, however the elf can only respond with a feverish shake of the head. Then he looks left and right to see if he's attracted the attention of his sergeant.
Then the announcement is made. His hands begin to sweat, causing him to regrip his weapon. The accussing looks of his peers in the guard cause him to shudder. He can only respond to them with a shrug of the shoulders. Only Domi knew what was happening; Betheas certainly did not. He mouths to Gigi, "what's going on?"
Postinf Report for Monday December 3rd, 2007 10:01:03 AM
Game # 15 Fort Silance For the week of Nove 26,2007
Adm Ceil - Where is my favorit Player--- Steve Hotts? gave up the ghost?? If I cannot leave Neither can HE!
OK! Adm JW, I'll be looking for you Next week!
Love Ceil
Zita Monday December 3rd, 2007 8:02:44 PM
Zita stands slowly and shrugs as she looks around. Flicking back her short hair she decides it is time to go get ready. "Great...normal clothes or something to make Nonna happy?" It is pretty obvious that she will most likely appear in her normal attire, looking the tomboy she is.
With a final wave to the group she starts to head for the main house and to get ready. She calls back over her shoulder to the group as a whole. "See you there and try to stay out of trouble till then." Glancing to Farce she hopes that he is ok. After all, she did not mean to hit him with the apple and why was he staring at that serving woman anyways. She shakes her head and groans as she disappears. "Men."
[Twilight Ranger is going two-weapon, though she will be able to use a bow as well. Figuring to go into the Duelist PrC...if Jerry ever sends me the stuff so that I know if I am taking the right feats and skills for it. (pokes Jerry :))
Summons or Punishment. (ADM JimW) Monday December 3rd, 2007 8:38:03 PM
With a lot of different mixed feelings, each member of the family moves off to prepare themselves in their own fashion. The jeers and compliments from some of those that pass you, do nothing to alleviate your worries.
The following two hours passes almost at a snails pace and maybe leave some nerves with the way some have been acting. Still you are all at the "ducal petition chamber" on time and ready for what is going to happen.
There at several people already in attendance and waiting for their own audience with both Mistress Adelina and Mistress Elisabetta. Most of them you know to be workers from the vineyards or even foreman that run the vineyards. It appears from what little you are able to overhear that there is a worker dispute with one of the foreman...something to do with unfair hours or something.
Still, you have little time to do anything much or even say hi to anyone...as you are ushered into the antechamber off the room that the daily petitioners are at. The man that leads you into the room is about sixty years of age or somewhere about there. There is a sense about him that he is a man to not be trifled with, though he wears the clothes of a butler...with a regal looking cape.
The way he watches you as you enter the antechamber gives you goosebumps and you get the idea that he is sizing you up. You have also never seen him before, but might guess that he came with Mistress Adelina. You are actually able to start breathing again as he finally shuts the doors, giving you a bow...but saying nothing.
Gigi Monday December 3rd, 2007 11:14:41 PM
Gigi looks around at the others. He is now in his best green and brown robes with Domi's holy symbol openly displayed upon his chest. His great sword is sheathed across his back poking up onver his shoulder.
He reaches his left hand up toward just below his ear and nearly starts rubbing his scar but he catches Julian's eye and stops even before he starts.
"Well, we can't be in too much trouble if she is seeing us in public court. I mean she wouldn't publicly humiliate us, would she. Besides I don't think I have done anything to be punished for in a long while.
Julien Tuesday December 4th, 2007 1:34:09 AM
Julien stands and accompanies the others. No doubt the 'dress accordingly' comment was meant for those who'd been getting their hands dirty recently - a pastime that Julien could manage if necessary, but was something he'd avoid if given the choice. He was a city boy, and proud of it, with a penchant for fine clothes which had, up to now, been in plentiful supply. The best linens, the smoothest velvets, the softest leathers, were all right by him, thank you very much. His only concession - this was the countryside after all - a long wool cloak - warm, toasty and relatively weatherproof. But that was hung on a hook. He wouldn't need that right now, and he looked fine. A white linen shirt from a very fashionable couturier in Plateau City, black velvet tunic, black leggings and polished boots. Hair was tied back in a single braid and wrapped in leather. He is presentable enough, and he knows it.
His thoughts on Bendis's area of study (sleep?? when there are all those incendiary spells? Still, Sleep would have its uses, too) are cut short as he looks around at his fellow summonees. Why the apprehension? He shrugs. Maybe he can kill some time by working on his Burning Hands spell. If he could be allowed some quiet time.
A little later, he gathers with the others as they are led into the anteroom. He nods at the older guy as he would to a peer, his face calm and unruffled, part of his mind still on his spell script. So who was he? No wonder everyone was nervous. He looks over at GiGi, uh oh, there goes the hand - up to the blasted scar again, but wait, nope, back down, good. He nods. Never show them you're afraid. Something his father taught him. Show any fear and you've already lost on the deal.
Bendis Tuesday December 4th, 2007 4:15:11 AM
If there's one thing Bendis cannot deal with, it's the fear formal social situations engender in him. The next two hours seem to fly past for the panicking dwarf. Never has two hours seemed so short.
He rushes back to his humble quarters and spends far too long scrubbing furiously at the stubborn ink stains on his hands and jacket. The end result is not perfect by any stretch of the imagination, but Bendis has little alternative; it's either the velvet smoking jacket (a little stained and worn around the edges) or his tatty old travelling jacket, covered in pockets. The latter is getting increasingly snug around the middle, and is in no way suitable for an important meeting with a feared and respected matriarch.
He fishes out his least crumpled pair of britches from the back of the wardrobe, and tugs on a pair of low suede boots. He then decides to try and run a comb through his beard, which proves to be a mistake. Within seconds the comb is hoplesssly snagged in Bendis' tangled mess of a beard, and it takes the flustered dwarf a good five minutes and no small amount of pain to get it back out again. And all the time, the minutes are ticking away.
By the time he reaches the others he is a nervous wreck. He has run all the way from his lodgings, leaving him sweating and out of breath. And, truth be told, he looks no different that when he first came in for breakfast this morning, save that the ink stain has faded a bit, and if anything he looks more flustered.
As they are led into the antechamber Bendis withers under the gaze of the stern-looking gentleman, gazing down at his feet in abject misery. Oh to be locked away with "A Historie of the Diviner's Arte vol III". Why couldn't he just be left alone with his studies? Books didn't raise their eyebrows at the way you dressed, or tell you how hopeless you were because you'd never smote an orc. In the back of his mind he can hear his father's voice growling at him.
"The hands of Clan Billingstone are stained with the blood of a thousand orcs back through twenty seven generations. What are your hands stained with, lad?"
"It's- it's ink, father, but it washes off with a good scrub..."
"Ink? INK?! Clan Billingstone are warriors born, boy, always have been. You are the thirdborn son of Boomis Billingstone, (smiter of forty three with my own fair axe and twelfth cousin of King Grugal Billingstone), son of Bambus Billingstone (smiter of twelve), son of-"
Bendis rubs a shaking hand over his face and sighs, long and loud.
Rosario Tuesday December 4th, 2007 12:40:41 PM
Rosario stands with the others. The stranger unnerved him considerably, but at the same time casued a surge of adrenaline to flow though his shoulders chest and down his spine. He had hurried back to his room and splashed some water into his hair to help hold it down, donned his chainshirt, a clean maroon tunic and grabbed his sword and dagger.
He had time, so a good rinsing through the mouth with some water was in order as well. Not having had weapons or any other martial drills yet, Rosario did not have anything to clean up from. His mind wandered a bit to some of the others that were mentioned. He certainly was not up to the task of tying them all together. Gigi, himself and Zita of course. Even Julien, but Bendis, Betheas, Farce? Good enough people, but really.
Rosario can't help but pass a momentary frown across his face as Bendis arrives. Great gods man. You are about to stand before my Nonna like that? "Bendis? It reflects on the rest of us you know." He doesn't look for an answer but simply gives a small shake of the head and tries to calm his near gidiness.
When the door is opened, Rosario returns the bow with a bow. Always respect your elders and with a grin he can't seem to get rid of, even knowing it is not entirely appropriate, Rosario Antonino enters the audience room.
Zita Tuesday December 4th, 2007 9:13:24 PM
Zita had made her way back to the small room that she held in the main house and looked at all the clothes that were available. Her eyes passed over the dresses that had been laid out by the maid and grimaced. "I don't think so." She moved over and brushed them to the floor, then unceremoniously kicked them under her bed.
She was soon stripped down to nothing and once again washed from the morning meal. As she pondered what to wear she settled upon her nicer pair of pants and a tunic, both of forest green. She slipped her chainshirt over her head and settled it onto her slim shoulders, then slipped a vest over top of that. Looking to the items laying upon her dresser she nodded her head and soon had the rapier and dagger buckled around her waist.
Slipping into the chamber with the older gentleman that had been watching them all, she found a seat. "Great...parade us through the main petitioners hall and into a private one." Of course she had the common sense to wait till the older man was gone before speaking. Her hand absently ran through her coppery hair as she attempted to straighten it further.
Glancing to the others she swallowed a little. "You know, a private audience could mean that this is very bad...." Her eyes flashing for a few seconds as she contemplates her next statement, she cannot help but grin. "...or it is very secret." Her eyes roam the others as she tries to figure out why each of them was called for this audience with Nonna and mom.
Wait and ponder. (ADM Jim) Tuesday December 4th, 2007 11:14:40 PM
The room that you find yourselves in is nice. Several couches are set up for relaxation as you wait and also a number of padded chairs are also available. Near the center of the room is a large bowl with a number of different fruits in it and two pitchers of water with glasses are also ready.
The time seem to start to drag as you wait in the room and wonder. For some reason you cannot get the feeling that you are being observed, though you can see nothing that would be suspect.
There is a number of tapestries upon the walls that are of a number of people. There is a scene of an epic battle with a black dragon high above the ground. A pair of men are battling the dragon and the embroideried writing says..."Valdor and Ve' and the demise of a black". Another one of the tapestries has a venerable man standing quietly over a battlefield and watching it unfold...one it is written; "Father Nick bathes the field in holy light". Each of the tapestries seems to be depicting some action that happened at some point or time and you note the following names as well....Mordrid, Dahlia, K'nara, Cori: just to name a few.
Betheas Tuesday December 4th, 2007 11:20:38 PM
Beathes walks slowly back to the small cave he calls home on the side of the plateau. 'Jeeze, what to do; what to wear!'
Luckily Judiath had another starched pair of guard wear wrapped for him in a tight bundle. 'Well, that's all I got. And, all I really know,' so he exchanges the clothes he is wearing for an exact replica. He makes his way as best he knows to the chamber in question, having never been there himself.
Walking in, he nods a polite hello to these youth that all out rank him. His body language makes it quite evident that he is very uncomfortable, and has NO idea why he has been summoned with those present.
A memory presents itself, and a dark day in the forest comes to mind. 'Oh my God... please tell me this has nothing to do with that!' He becomes agitated and anxious.
Gigi Wednesday December 5th, 2007 12:01:28 AM
Gigi spends alot of time in front of the Tapestries, particularly looking at those that depict Ve and Father Nicholas. An occasional sigh can be heard coming from the young man with soft comments about the scenes he is looking at.
Bendis Wednesday December 5th, 2007 7:49:12 AM
At Rosario's words the dwarf blushes scarlet and seems to visibly shrink.
"Suh-suh-sorry" he mumbles, fervently wishing the ground would swallow him up. Bad enough that he's going to make a fool of himself in front of the great lady, but it seems he's going to put his friends in a bad light too. He wonders, for at least the hundreth time, what in the Wold he's doing here.
Rosario Wednesday December 5th, 2007 8:54:36 AM
Rosario moves to look at some of the tapestries. Adventure, glory, battles against evil and the discoveries of new worlds. The young mans eyes are alight at the possibilities. Even if these names are fictitious, they speak of the possibilities. Not all the Wold has been tamed and conquered, he was not too late. Destiny, immortality all laid out before him.
Julien Wednesday December 5th, 2007 1:00:18 PM
Okay, so, holding the fingers like so, that was the easy part, but what about putting the flames out? How as he supposed to control it? All this pyromania was all very well, but he didn't want to look like a complete fool by burning anyone's house down. Field practice, maybe against a wall. Yeah... Somewhere on the peripheries, he hears Rosario's admonition of Bendis with an indifference born of distraction. Although the subject of dress comes to the fore when Zita arrives, loaded for bear and in chain mail. That was two of them at the very least. What was it with these provincial types? Always dressed for cracking heads. Oh well, that was his concentration blown.
Julien stands, places his book underneath his arm and flexes his fingers. It would probably be at this point that his Dad would be telling a few jokes, passing round cigars, putting people at ease. Well, he didn't have any cigars and didn't know any jokes, other than childish ones, so instead he paces around slowly. He nods at Betheas, gives a reassuring wink to Bendis.
He then stops before the portrait of two men and a dragon. He frowns slightly. "Hey, Rosario." His head nods toward the picture on the wall. "You reckon this one is for real? That's a big dragon."
Rosario Wednesday December 5th, 2007 4:39:59 PM
"Nah." he shakes his head in the negative, "Just artists doing what they do."
Impeccable[DM Jerry] Wednesday December 5th, 2007 5:13:24 PM
[OK, Jim. I got it. Thanks bud! My neck is still very sore, but I can focus on the screen now, so I'm good.]
After about 30 minutes, the door is opened by two Fort Silence Defenders and the group of kids is motioned inside by the robed figure that led them to the antichamber.
When you enter, you have to walk down a short purple aisle to where Elisabetta sits behind a desk at her Seat of Judgment. Elisabetta seals a couple of letters with her Ducal Seal and turns to Adelina, frowning at her.
"So, that's done then."
Adelina nods, seriously and then takes half a step back, at the traditional place of the Ducal Advisor.
Elisabetta invites them to approach and spread out in front of her.
"Good morning children. I am sure that you'll be sad to hear that we finally a new tutor. He will also serve as the head of house here at Montdidier Castle. He comes to us with impeccable abilities and reputation."
She pauses looking at Adelina again and they exchange knowing smiles. Turning back she just blurts it out as if it was a normal statement to make about this time of the morning.
"He was head of house for the Platinum Dragon Castle."
She lets that sink in.
"His name is....
"Fabersham."
Zita d20+3=16 Wednesday December 5th, 2007 10:32:21 PM
As she wanders around looking at the tapestries she tries to keep her mind on business. Several times she checks the vestment that she wears over her armor and then her weapons as well. Maybe she should have left them behind...was this too much?
Then the doors open again and they are ushered before her mother and grandmother. She swallows a couple of times but falls into step. As she pulls up closer to were her mother is seated she moves to the side, but still close to the group. With a smile to her mother and grandmother she cuts a deep bow.
Then the news of a new tutor is brought to light and she sighs. As she listens she can already tell that getting rid of this one will be virtually impossible. She does believe that she remembers the name and the mention of the Platinum Dragon Castle. As it dawns on her she does not even realize that she has spoke till the words are out of her mouth. "Nonna...the same group that was led by "The Dragonstone" that you mentioned a number of times?" Surely a man of that stature would not want to be tutor to a bunch of young pups.
Glancing to the others she wonders if any of them remember some of the stories that Nonna has told them on her few visits. Ok, so the stories had not been for them and the overheard them just because the had wanted to know what Nonna and mom were up to.
Picci Thursday December 6th, 2007 1:07:53 AM
Hitherto unnoticed thanks to her tone-on-tone gray robes and uncharacteristic silence, Picci pipes up:
"Fabersham...from the household of the Platinum Dragons? I'm sure he has a sterling reputation!" the petite dark-haired girl says with a grin.
Bendis Thursday December 6th, 2007 11:24:27 AM
By the time they are ushered into the room Bendis is so nervous he can barely breath. He keeps to the back of the pack, his eyes fixed upon his feet. He doesn't even notice Julien's friendly wink.
Then Elisabetta makes her announcement. Bendis does his very best to look awestruck and impressed, but ends up look rather cheerfully baffled (a not uncommon expression for Bendis).
It's hardly surprising. Having spent the last hundred years underground, a social pariah in an insular community, with a knowledge of the Wold gained from books on the history of magic written for the most part in the last century, Benis knows precious little about current affairs. This is the main reason Elisabetta has informed him he must be tutored with the others, and Bendis for one can't wait. If there's one thing he enjoys it's absorbing the contents of dusty textbooks.
His sense of relief that this meeting is just to announce their new tutor is palpable. He nudges Julien and whispers "The Platinum who? Are they famous?"
Then Zita pipes up, talking about the Dragonstone. Now Bendis looks doubly confused. His bushy eyebrows seem to do battle as they collide in consternation. This man kept house for dragons? Dragons who were led by a stone? What sort of household was this? Did it involve a lot of shovelwork? Bendis tries and fails to disguise the fact that he has absolutely no idea what Elisabetta is talking about.
Picci Thursday December 6th, 2007 12:45:22 PM
Noticing Bendis' confusion, Picci wisely realizes that the dwarven spellcaster hasn't yet caught up to this part of Wold history. She puts a hand on his shoulder.
"Don't worry, Bendis," she assures him, "We'll fill you in on it later." The jet-tressed girl smiles and then puts on a polite face for the rest of Mama Montdidier's talk.
Julien Thursday December 6th, 2007 1:05:37 PM
Julien walks toward the desk along with the others and gives both ladies a gracious bow.
When the announcement comes regarding their new tutor, it takes every ounce of composure he can muster to stop his jaw dropping to the floor.
While Zita fires off a few questions, his mind is hard at work. Platinum Dragons, Fabersham, oooooh my...
There's a flurry of memory, adults talking over this and that while he and his sisters listened at the door. Julien's aunt (on his mother's side) was an occasional visitor to the Delacour household. She was married to a man named Michael Valentine, who's younger brother was, by all accounts, in that very group of famous adventurers. Apparently they hardly ever saw him which, according to his aunt, was a problem, and his own mother agreed, but who cared about that? Wasn't the connection enough? That's why Julien was here in the first place, to learn about wine, how it was grown, harvested and fermented - and more importantly, who grew it, harvested it and fermented it. Success and happiness in life was all about connections. That was something his father was always telling him - choose your friends wisely, be aware of who is who, be gracious, don't make too many enemies, because you just never know what lies ahead and who you'll need on your side. That was one of Dad's more obvious lessons, and Julien was aware there were more, lurking beneath the surface of a man who wore the guise of a Plateau City businessman and socialite. Connections. He'd bet his entire spell collection that his Dad was in the Chancers Club. Again, connections. Well, here was his, in the form of his new tutor. Ha ha!
Busy bubbling away in the cauldren of his own junior ambition, he's distracted, and Bendis's question has to fight for Julien's attention, but finally, it registers.
"Yes," he says quietly, a hardly containable glee written on his features. "Very famous."
Farce Thursday December 6th, 2007 2:44:52 PM
Farce is grinning from ear to ear! He's never been allowed to be schooled. That's for the ducal family and rich folk.
His legs want to dance, but he knows he can't.
::Not here Farcie. Control! Dance later::
His knees buckle in hit attempt to control himself.
::A million questions and can't ask a one!::
Elisabetta [DM Jerry] Thursday December 6th, 2007 2:46:35 PM
Fabersham has been a Castle Manager for decades now and is very knowledgable in both the art of Wine Making and the skill of running a business.
So I present to you your new Tutor, Master Fabersham.
"It is a very good thing to meet you, young masters. There is much that I can and will teach you. Even though you are underage, I will be treating you as men and women. I will expect you to act as young men and women. I am not a hard taskmaster, but I do have high standards. I will speak more of this in time."
He bows again, and takes a step back from the ducal seat.
Elisabetta [DM Jerry] Thursday December 6th, 2007 3:21:06 PM
"Thank you Master Fabersham."
Elisabetta nods her head in his direction.
"Children, (she seems to use the word purposefully) I have tasked Master Fabersham with both of the subjects that he has just mentioned: The Art of Winemaking and The Skill of Business."
She pauses.
"Now for some serious talk. As you know, several years ago, the family lost Giampiero, Abuelita's husband and the Duke of Gnowsy, the position I now hold. We also lost my husband, Eligio as well as all the direct family, other than Zita.
"This leaves the family somewhat....small. There is not many Montdidier family members left. A few situations are simply unknown as the family arcane and divine casters have not been able to locate them nor determine if they are dead. Of those who are left and who's fate are known, most are cousins or nephews.
"If something happened to Abuelita or myself, the dukedom would fall upon Zita as my only remaining child.
"I would not have her hold that office alone without close associates that she trusts. I have watched all of you closely during the past few months, testing and prodding to show that you are loyal to the Mondidier Family. Most importantly, however, you have shown yourselves to be good and true friends of Zita's. Zita is going to need friends, whenever the time does come for her to be Duke of Gnowsy. Friends, not advisors, protectors, or business associates.
"Friends, sacrifice for each other. Aid each other both emotionally and physically. Advisors, protectors, and associates do not do such things.
"Rosario is also a family member, so Zita's heir will be in the class as well. I do not want any preferential treatment for either Zita or Rosario. This is a class. A circle of friends.
"Are there any questions?
Zita Thursday December 6th, 2007 11:21:06 PM
Zita nearly chokes at the last statement of her mother. Her, in line to take over the family...oh god help them all. She knows that her face and especially her ears have turned as red as her hair and she does not bother to move it back, but lets it hide her face.
Any other questions she might have had, have disappeared in the announcement of such things. She feels herself shaking a little and it is not from nerves...but fear.
Picci Friday December 7th, 2007 2:00:58 AM
Today seems to be Picci's day to offer support. No sooner does she finish assuring Bendis that he'll receive more detailed answers after their meeting with Mama Montdidier and Nonna, then Zita is in need of some easing as well.
"No surprises, right..?" the postulate whispers to Zita, her free hand reaching out and, as with the dwarven wizard, Picci clasps Zita's shoulder in a comforting manner, her words reminding the young noblewoman that Zita had always been raised knowing that she was destined to have to live up to a title someday.
Bendis Friday December 7th, 2007 6:55:31 AM
"Thanks Picci" the dwarf whispers back.
Bendis notices Zita's discomfort at once. Poor Zita, so many responsibilities at such a young age. He feels a a great deal of sympathy for her; not five minutes ago he had felt much the same way, dreading being made the focus of attention. How much worse it must be for Zita; not only this moment but the weight of responsibility, the knowledge that her whole life is being mapped out before her. Bendis feels a little guilty at his own petty fears.
He steps to Zita's side and gives her a friendly nudge. "Don't worry Zita" he whispers. "We're with you."
Trying to take the focus off of Zita a little he plucks up his courage and addresses Elisabetta. He starts nervously, but grows a little in confidence as he begins to talk on his favourite topic; learning.
"Um, ex-excuse me your Grace, b-but I have a question. For Master Fabersham, if I may. Um, sir, could you give us a little more information about our studies please? When and where the classes will be held, um, if we need to get any books or do any reading ahead of the first class? Can you suggest any texts that might serve as useful backgound reading? Um, thank you."
Fabersham [DM Jerry] Friday December 7th, 2007 1:08:31 PM
"Master Bendis, that is a very insightful question. However, it is not appropriate for an audience with the duke. We will handle such details after the audience. And I think you'll like what I have in mind as well." He winks earning a scowl from Abuelita. It is hard to determine from Fabersham's wink whether he intended the breach in protocol to get under grandmother's skin or not.
Elisabetta [DM Jerry] Friday December 7th, 2007 1:11:03 PM
"Hmm...according to my lists, there are two children that did not receive the summons this morning because they were not within the Fort grounds.
"I'll send them along with a note from me when they arrive. They were doing chores or were busy, so we will assume that they had responsiblities and will treat them as such.
"Thanks Fabersham for taking this position. I hope it reaps great rewards for all of us. You are all dismissed."
Rosario Friday December 7th, 2007 1:11:26 PM The Art of Winemaking and the skill of Business? Antonino did try and warn me. and with that thought and the news of Zita's standing in the line of succession and then his own it was starting to sink in. Duty was rearing its ugly head and soon al his dreams of glory would turn to ash. Rosario catches his shoulders slumping, he knows his face is betraying the utter disappointment he is feeling and he mentally fights to correct that. Slowly and deeply, the young man inhales quietly through his nose, filling his lungs and pushing his shoulders back and straightening his back.
Rosario gives a bow towards Elisabetta and turns slightly to square on Flabersham. "The honor is ours."
Something tugged back the mind of the young man, a warrior's instinct past down through the generations of proud and skilled fighters and bodyguards of House Montdidier. The line of succession being so established, hints of foul play and mortal dangers to him and his sister. Suggestions that others in the family have been killed the very fact that such a man as the Head of the Platinum Dragon Castle will be here, teaching them. Alas, the calls are not so loud as the heavy sigh of his teenage sprit as the built up false hopes of glory and battle feels itself extinguished as a candle in an ocean.
Farce Friday December 7th, 2007 2:03:10 PM
Farce is way over his head with excitement. He literally bounces out of the room back into the ante-chamber.
"Schoolin'! Woot!"
Andelina [DM Jerry] Friday December 7th, 2007 2:06:07 PM
Andelina, finally speaks. "I need to see Zita and Rosario please. Step forward and bow children. This is a formal ceremony, witnessed by your peers."
Bendis Sunday December 9th, 2007 7:30:14 AM
Bendis nods at Flabersham's words, and tries to supress a smile at his wink. He likes their new tutor already. "Th-thank you sir. Quite right, muh-my apologies your Grace."
Uh-oh, now what? A formal ceremony? What does the great lady have in mind? Bendis watches, holding his breath though he is not aware of it.
Betheas Sunday December 9th, 2007 10:56:36 AM
Snapping to attention, Betheas then bows deeply. Taking two steps back, he turns to leave when they are dismissed. Once beyond the doors, he will wait for Zita.
Once she exits he will ask, "what is going on? Was I supposed to be in there? I have to work! Am I supposed to quit my job? Where am I to live?" The questions and statements come out in rapid fire succession, a thick elven accent making words all the faster.
Rosario Sunday December 9th, 2007 2:50:45 PM
Squaring his shoulders. One hand unbuckles his sword belt and he hands it to his right, assuming one of the others will simly take it and put it to the floor so that it does not clatter. One does not have an official ceremony with the duchess while armed.
Rosario puts the most regal look he can upon his face and takes two strides forward and drops hard to his left knee, his hands fold across his right and he bows his head.
Picci Sunday December 9th, 2007 7:08:28 PM
The petite acolyte steps over to where Rosario has had to abandon his weapon and picks it up. She'll keep it safe until he and Zita are finished with whatever Nonna wishes to see them about. Then she bows as the great lady has bid.
Julien Monday December 10th, 2007 12:05:26 PM
Julien is a little puzzled by both Zita and Rosario's reaction. Were they not aware of the succession? It seemed natural to him, but then again as the eldest in his own family, he'd worn that very mantle for years. Again, another reason why he was here in the first place. Although how he was supposed to do that, become such an expert at everything and become a Wold class wizard, too, remained to be seen. No doubt he was supposed to figure it out, somehow.
He takes a step back, bows as the two are summoned forward. Were they supposed to stay or go? Witnesses, the lady had said. Okay... Already his mind is elsewhere, specifically on the subject of the mysterious deaths. His mother and father had argued. She didn't want Julien to come here, but as usual his father had overruled, thank goodness, and suddenly he is back to the present and sympathetic toward his two friends bowed before their immediate elders. Business, succession, legacies, inheritence - it was like someone had you in a choke hold and wouldn't let go. Escape for Julien was here, temporarily at least - but where were these two going to be able to run to?
Elisabetta [DM Jerry] Monday December 10th, 2007 3:50:15 PM
Once Ziti also takes her place, Elisabetta speaks.
"Ziti, I know you were wondering who would succeed me as some of our family is still missing. However, according to New Elennian law, enough time has passed now for us to be able to formally declare a succession line.
"My dear, you are now #1 on the succession list. You will be the next Duke of Gnowsy."
Elisabetta pulls off the ducal signet ring and places it on Ziti's finger. The ring resizes to fit her!
For a short time, Ziti's head spins as the magic of the ring puts her through its paces. When Ziti's eyes clear, Elisabetta removes the ring and places it back on her finger.
"The ring will now recognize you as heir when the day comes for you to be the next Duke of Gnowsy."
Adelina [DM Jerry] Monday December 10th, 2007 3:55:42 PM
Adelina comes around the Ducal Seat and approaches Rosario.
"Rosario, I am getting old. And the title of "Protector" should go to one that is young. So your wearing of the Seal of the Protector is not temporary. You will become the Protector of Elisabetta this very day. I will still stand by her side as I always have, but with Ziti declared the heir, I want some power behind the declaration. So you will be protector, now of the Ducal family. Your assignment is to keep Ziti safe. This does not mean you throw away your own life, but protect yourself as you protect her.
Rosario, do you accept the position of Ducal Protector?
Rosario d20+5=15 Monday December 10th, 2007 4:36:53 PM
Rosario suddenly felt like someone had just kicked him very hard below the belt line. The Ducal Protector he had not seen coming. His stomcah was producing more bile and acid then it had ever done in his short life. Fearing he will throw up if he opens his mouth, he looks up at Adelina and gives a great nod. All the while triyng to force his stomach back into place, just in case he was forced to speak.
Gigi Monday December 10th, 2007 4:56:38 PM
Gigi silent and in the background, ponders the meaning behind the pronouncement of their new tutor and then while witnessing the line of succession ceremony, he can't help but wonder why he and some of the others were included in this group. Some of them already had callings and were beginning lives while not out of the wine business, only on the perifery of it. Why now were they being drawn back in. Something just didn't feel right about it all and he was as sure as he was scarred that whatever was happening here, it wasn't just about winemaking lessons.
Bendis Monday December 10th, 2007 6:26:44 PM
Bendis looks from Zita to Rosario and back again, his jaw agape. The pomp! The circumstance! And he, Bendis, who everyone said would never amount to anything, a witness! His heart swells with warmth, gratitude, and not a little pride. Although he is sure his two friends are squirming right now, there is nowhere Bendis would rather be.
Betheas Monday December 10th, 2007 9:37:43 PM
Upon witnessing the ceremony, Betheas the elf is starting to figure things out a little better. But, what was his place in things? All a bit strange.
It's odd that these humans have to figure these things out so quickly. An heir all ready? It seems the line had just begun.
Zita Tuesday December 11th, 2007 12:24:34 AM
Zita's head is full of worries and maybe a hint of excitement as well. She bows her head and moves forward as her mother calls for her.
The magic that fills her, literally sets her mind ablaze as the ring is positioned on her finger. As it comes to an end and the ring is removed she bows her head to both her mother and grandmother. "You are right of course and I will do my best Mother." Though her insides are feeling queesy she is able to get a smile upon her face and gives another bow as she backs up a few steps.
When at last they are released she is eager to get out the door, though her mind is racing. Despite her need to be herself, she also finds that she has a need to take on the responsibility and do her family proud. She had not even noticed the comments from the others earlier.
Once outside and in the antchamber she turns to the rest of her friends and gives them a bow. "I want you to know that I will do my best for all of you. Despite my attitude...I knew that this would happen one day." She absently brushes a foot upon the floor as she turns a little red with the admission. Her eyes turn to Master Flabersham and she cuts him a deeper bow. "I will endeaver to do my best with the lessons as well." More to herself than anyone else she speaks in a lower voice. "I have my work cut out for me."
Farce Tuesday December 11th, 2007 11:50:10 AM
Standing near Zita, Farce lets out "Yeah Zita, I think we all do. There's something here not being said yet. It's just too..."
He pauses as the door to the antichamber closes and Fabersham stops to stand beside him.
Without thinking he slinks and cowers a bit moving away from the imposing figure.
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