Lineage is everything among Sunderland's nobility; some ancient and prestigious noble houses can even trace their ancestry back to the War of Flowers. But something strange is happening to this family—multiple members are being chosen, throwing the house's steadfast traditions into disarray...
This is a noble house concept contest.
Contest information
Partner up! Groups should consist of 2-4 people; we aren't taking solo entries due to the nature of the contest. You may give away any extra guardians to friends, but they must go to chosen who share the family name of the noble house you've created.
Entries will be judged mainly on interest, creativity, plot potential, and suitability to the setting. As always historical research is not required, but putting effort into historical accuracy is one of many ways you can make your entry stand out.
Each person can only enter once! When you are ready to enter, have one member of your group post the form below in this thread. Entries may be edited at any time up until the deadline, and you are free to change the default style, color, and graphics of the form if desired.
[size=11][b]Prominent figures[/b] (Repeat up to four times if necessary, once for every person in the group)
[b]CHARACTER NAME[/b] [b]Character of:[/b] Your username [b]Chosen by:[/b] Guardian name, #1, 2, 3, or 4 [b]Description:[/b] Keep this brief—the main focus should be on the body of the entry
[b]CHARACTER NAME[/b] [b]Character of:[/b] Your username [b]Chosen by:[/b] Guardian name, #1, 2, 3, or 4 [b]Description:[/b] Keep this brief—the main focus should be on the body of the entry
[b]About the family[/b] Tell us about the noble family that has found itself in this odd predicament! Your entry is largely freeform; you can describe the house's history in essay format, tell us about them through a roleplayed-out family dinner, trace their accomplishments back through a family tree, or whatever else catches your fancy. Entries do not need to go into every detail of the house's history and characteristics—rather, focus on the aspects you think are the most interesting.
If you're lost, here are some topics you may want to consider: How are they coping with so many members of the family being chosen? What are their traditions, and have they changed? Are there any points of conflict within the house, issues of marriage, illness, or inheritance? What are their views on Wardens and the Old Ways?[/size][/color][/align]
The Ancient and Noble House of Daranieh (Pronounced dah-rey-nee)
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Prominent figures Lord Warrik Daranieh, Earl of Daranally (NPC) Lady Kaletra, Countess of Daranally (non-chosen character) Lord Malcom; Son of Warrik and Kaletra; Deceased Lady Valean; Wife of Malcom; Deceased Lord Graeme Daranieh, Viscount of Bolain; Eldest Son Lord Dracen Daranieh, Baron of Doveton; Second Son Dahna Daranieh; Youngest Daughter Luciano Daranieh; Eldest First Cousin
About the family
The Daranieh House Prophecy
When wolves run afield In age so dire And men will yield Or fight with fire
In House Daranieh Where greed does bite Divided are thee Over wrong and right
Guardians with grace Chose those who deserve To take rightful place As the nobles who serve
Forevermore changed The house's esteem From a family deranged to a family redeemed
House Daranieh was founded by Lord Artyx Daranieh, during the War of Flowers. Since then, only one member of the family has ever been chosen as a Warden, Graeme Daranieh III, and the family widely regards this as an anomaly. The old ways are disregarded in favor of living for society and entertainment, funded mainly in the riches of the mountainous estate, which features quarries, sand banks, and a flourishing fur trade. With the recent building revolution, road improvements, and break-throughs of glass-making techniques, their investments in these trades has seen an expansion and their profit has shot up remarkably. With such wealth at their disposal, the family has taken the modern fashions and entertainments up a notch, living in an extravagant state that few of the previous generations could afford. Greed has always been a hallmark of the Daranieh, disguised as ambition, and the Daranieh Matriarch, Lady Kaletra, has pressured her investment companies to work longer hours and pinched the purse-strings over charitable acts in order to gain greater luxuries. This leaves many of their workers in poverty and illness.
But a new breed of Daranieh is coming of age. Lady Kaletra's grandchildren are of a marriageable age now, and some of them are getting ideas about how society works, or should work, that clashes violently with the Daranieh name. Some are even getting chosen, and with Guardians by their sides, they are becoming more bold in their opinions to provide more improvements and increase charities on their lands. The blatant greed, sloth, and gluttony of their relatives has become a source of embarrassment, and tragedy as well, with the deaths or disappearances of several family members. Four younger Daraniehs have started a secret pact of justice, working to tear down their elders' unfair deeds and to help the poverty-stricken, their faces hidden in all their vigilante acts. As time passes, the intrigue increases, and it becomes harder for them to maintain their double lives, but they must soldier on, for the good of the family, name, and their very honor in being human.
Kaletra Daranieh Character of: Kitty Sprightt Non-Chosen Character Lord Warrick has been a recluse for years and always communicates with his family through Kaletra. Some suspect that he is senile, and that it is really Kaletra running the show, but as she hasn't cut any allowances, no one has bothered to check. Besides, she has quite an imposing manner, and no one dares question her. She breeds long-haired grimalkins as a genteel hobby.
Graeme Harshond Daranieh V Character of: Patmos of Endtimes Chosen by: Honor, Clothed Buck Description: Named for his great grandfather, Graeme is the eldest son, due to inherit, with an income currently at three thousand a year. Responsibilities of his own investments have already been placed on him and nearly everyone is pressuring him to find a pretty wife of good breeding, a matter which he is agreeable in, though his definition of amiable varies from his relatives. Disgusted by his family's largess, he has become the ringleader of the little rebellion in the Daranieh house. Overall, he gives the impression of being strong of body, iron of will, and stoic in dress; a young man of age that will take over the family name. But under it all lies a man with a fire in his soul to do what is right and good.
Dracen Linwood Daranieh Character of: Zingling Chosen by: Wit, Clothed Doe Description: Tumultuous in almost every sense of the word, Dracen is seen as an oddity within the clan. He has very little interest in society’s normalcies and would rather dally with whatever outre’ pastime piques his interest. Inherently intelligent, he easily understands the redundancies of estate with which Graeme is forced to contend. Remaining aloof, he’s seen as unhelpful, a status that he relishes and flaunts. Unpredictably volatile regarding remonstration and mere annoyance, it’s generally agreed among the clan that he’s to be left to his own devices. Pomp and decorum do not sit well with Dracen. His quicksilver intellect and intuition readily pinpoint the fallacies and inadequacies of courtly life. Though on the surface his flagrant nonconformity seems intended to annoy, his ultimate goal is refinement of the clan. Bit by bit, the upsets he causes will force the clan to develop itself in different ways, more conducive to their survival.
Dahna Octavia Daranieh Character of: Astraea Pandora Chosen by: Charity, Gold and Teal Doe Description: The youngest sister of Graeme and Dracen, Dahna is on the verge of being introduced to society, a thing her older brothers view with growing nervousness. For never was there a more pure, innocent soul than Dahna. While well-read and rather accomplished already, she has extremely high morals, a notorious generous streak with the poor, and a pure belief in the Old Ways that her family regards as childish. Her pretty looks and demure nature on meeting strangers marks her as good marriage material, but her Daranieh stubbornness and the rebellious fire under it all could quickly get her in trouble in a husband's house. She is the spiritual leader of the four, always bringing them back down to reality and their true goal when they stray too far into bullying or flaunting their own intelligence.
Luciano Blackwell Daranieh Character of: Petite Kitsune Chosen by: Love, Swirled Buck Description: A tall, fair-haired young man with a strange habit of not looking folks in the eye and mumbling a bit when he speaks, Luciano is considered something of a bookish lad, though he will agree (under duress) to outdoor tasks. He vastly prefers indoor ones, though, and will eagerly sit for hours at calculations that would bore other men to tears, and invent number games for himself that puzzled even his tutors as a small child, including a form of shorthand that he uses almost exclusively over letters, given that his own writing is somewhat lacking in elegance. Growing up, these strange inclinations sat oddly with his mother and father, who -- as hastily as they were able -- fostered him off to live with his cousins, leaving them free to produce further children that were less burdened with Luciano's poor social skills. He has since learned from his older cousins how to better blend in, refining it into his very own system of variables and responses, of which he is quite proud and uses frequently to unnerve younger cousins and siblings. At his core, though, Luciano feels somewhat excluded, unable to quite connect with others in the way he'd like to -- and thus he makes every effort possible to do good deeds, following the lead of his oldest cousin, whom he admires greatly.
.:. .:. .:.
MISC INFORMATION
Properties
The Daranieh Family Estates:
Daranally Park The larger and newer of the estates, started after the Great War and then more recently expanded at the start of Lord Warrick and Lady Kaletra's marriage. Featuring extensive grounds and the nearby village of Hanneshire. Has the title of Earl associated with it, belonging to Warrick.
The Bolain House An estate to the north of Palisade currently under renovations. Once a country getaway, it is being turned into a proper estate house. The land is supported by agriculture. Has the title of Viscount associated with it, belonging to Graeme.
Doveton Castle The oldest estate house, dating back to The War of Flowers. Its foundation is an old mot and bailey, refurbished several times and with added wings. It is well-known for its proximity to the waterfall and its misty mornings. Considered by the family to be unfashionable, and is maintained by a cousin and his family that are more modest in attitude and plentiful in children. Has the title of Baron associated with it, belonging to Dracen.
The Town Houses:
Palisade, The Golden Street House, Called Galadee A large townhouse in the finest district, home of Lady Kaletra, her husband, and her wards. Featuring a fine library, a stable, and a mews.
Palisade, The Braden Street House, Called Little Moon A smaller townhouse in an agreeable area, home to Luciano's family -- the late Malcom's sister Acadia, her husband Carlin Blackwell, and their children.
Oldcastle, The Warden House, Also Called The Stable Largely abandoned, this house was once Graeme III's hunting lodge and training grounds. It has been left to ruin and is barely maintained by a surly servant widely considered mad by all his neighbors. Daraniehs never let go of property.
Significant Properties:
The Causewell Quarry A massive quarry in the south part of Doveton land. Produces marble of many types, but most coveted is the pure white marble primarily cut into building blocks for new housing. Also produces many grades of gravel and paving stones.
Glasshill A fine sandbank on the north end of Causewell Lake, on Daranally land, and the accompanying craftsman village with many glass-making facilities.
Artigon Mountains Houses the Causewell Quarry, plus acres of forested land prime for hunting furs and pelts. Most of the local animals grow up used to the loud noises, making for easy hunting.
Causewell Lake and Infinity Island Due to run-off from Glasshill, part of the lake is not suitable for fishing. The west shore is better for such things, but is not Daranieh property. Infinity Island is easily reachable by boat and features a superb little summer house, garden, and a small, ancient temple, long abandoned.
DIGGORY REINE Character of: ici chiot Chosen by: Astor, #3 Description: Diggory is a distinguished gentleman of thirty-seven, whose impeccable taste has left him in want of the perfect bride. His pride in his pedigree is unmatched, and he wishes dearly to create a tiny posse of children to carry on his name; but only with a woman of the same purity and nobility as himself. He harbors an uncomfortable secret. Diggory was born a twin to a malformed brother, who was disposed of at birth. He blames his mother for poor genetics and openly resents her because of it. Never-the-less his family hides his secret well. Diggory’s disdain for imperfection is flaunted both in mannerisms and possessions. He is a man who enjoys his wealth, especially in front of an audience.
JOCELYN REINE Character of: L ii a t h Chosen by: Lalla, #4 Description: A woman of twenty-five who pretends to have a husband of exponential wealth and power, because she is ashamed to admit to her family that she is still unwed at her age. When it comes to public appearances and family gatherings, she will often lie, saying her husband is away on business, though will occasionally pay an acquaintance to accompany her, to keep up the facade. She is haughty and shrewd, fully supporting the notion of blood purity her family clings to so fiercely. However, as much as she respects and supports her family, she also fears them, and the repercussions of the truth she desperately fights to hide.
About the family The Reine family has always been one of extreme privilege and prestige. They're an old money family, valuing blood purity above all else, with reputation a close second. So important, in fact, that through the years, family members have often turned to incest, as a means to ensure they don't taint their blood with lesser names. Perfection is, of course, expected and necessary, so the family will frequently dispose of babies born with deformities, cause by the rampant incest. Generally, they don't blame themselves, or even feel guilty - it's simple a means to achieve what truly matters. The Reine family is mostly blonde haired and blue eyed. Individuals who are not are from 'outcross' marriages, and are usually looked down upon within the family.
The family has never followed or believed in the old ways - they believe themselves above silly superstitions. All save one family member; Aunt Mildred. Mildred Reine was once like the rest of her family; conceited, vain, and valuing tradition over human life. She thought she had it all; she was a valued member of a powerful family, and had married a dashing man - her cousin, to be exact. A few years after marriage, well before Mildred had reached thirty, her husband was savagely attacked and murdered by wolves; or rather, beasts that resembled wolves. Mildred spiraled into hysterics, blabbering on about massive shadows with glistening fangs and eyes on fire. Obviously, no one, especially not her family, believed a word she said. An unfortunate hunting accident, they said - not creatures from the myths of old. Mildred was hushed and ushered away; she had just lost her husband and was devastated, her family explained - she should not be taken seriously.
Her family hoped she would come to her senses, and move on with her life - perhaps marry again and start over. Rather, Mildred turned to the old ways, grasping the belief like a life line, and stuck fast to her story of the truth. Eventually, her family came to despise the 'batty Aunt Mildred', and did their best to keep her out of the public eye - after all, the perfect Reine's couldn't be seen associating with the mentally unstable.
Nevertheless, Mildred's resolve would not waver, and when four of her family members were chosen, she was delighted. Finally, some proof they could not ignore! Unfortunately for the chosen, however, the rest of the Reine's proved just as stubborn as Mildred; a rift between chosen and non-chosen developed, and the chosen, along with Mildred, were all but disowned. But no matter; Mildred took the choosing as a sign of hope, and has devoted herself to aiding her chosen family members.
Posted: Tue Dec 24, 2013 7:35 pm
NOVANTICO
Prominent figures
Alexander Novantico Character of: ~Lady Kanna~ Chosen by: Feronia, 1 (Fluff Doe) Description: The youngest of his clan, Alexander is still far too young to understand what the world is bringing. At the tender young age of 11, he separated from his kin and took a trip to the Ward Tree, gaining his guardian. This of course, caused quite a panic, and while he didn’t understand why his sisters were upset, he surely does now. The boy is still quiet, and prefers to let his older sisters take charge of familial matters, though he knows one day they will rest in his hands. He much prefers writing poetry and staying out of sight (and mind) rather than striking trade deals with other notable families or keeping books. He knows very little of his family’s history in Sunderland, much less all of it together, and can still be seen as an innocent child in the wakings of this war. He knows precious little of his family’s involvement, just knowing instead that they are to return. The name of his doe comes from a goddess, worshiped in ancient times. His precious books have told him she’s the personification of liberty, and is also associated with fertility. Being the only male heir, it’s clear to say he’ll one day need to carry on the family line, and it’s up to his sisters, and Feronia, to protect him, though he’s not always sure he wants to meet this fate. There’s something else, something Feronia is slowly guiding him towards, and it feels like freedom. Alexander is usually not found alone. Either his sisters, or his doe, will be by his side, and occasionally hired arms will be joining him. He dreads the day he’s unable to sneak out past their notice at all, though he’s still unaware of the danger he’s in when he does so. Alexander looks up to his sister Lucia the most, finding her life thus far a sounding success. She’s happily married, good at what she does, and at least seems to enjoy it, though more often than not he’s left to the loving torment of Arria. He’s not sure what to think when compared to his bright, useful skills, especially when they’re not the ones to be taking over the family business, but he does have one thing going for him. Alexander seems to be rather good at dealing with people, as much as he doesn’t like to do it. On times accompanying his father, he’s learned rather quickly how to strike a good deal with little to no hassle, something beneficial to both parties involved. However, lately there seems to be a lot changing in the young boy. His voice seems to crack without notice, and he’s often unable to sleep through terrible aches in his arms and legs, much to the teasing of his sisters. This makes things even more awkward than they need to be, considering he’s miles away from where he considers home to be, and there doesn’t seem to be any indication they’ll be returning.
Arria Novantico Character of: PeanutButterpies Chosen by: Castus, #2 (Fluff Buck) Description: The middle daughter of the family, Arria is 16 and the playful, childish bridge between her older sister and younger brother. Energetic and bit mischievous, Arria is a somewhat rebellious child who prefers to spend most of her time outside than learning the trade of her family. The new land around her is of great fascination to the girl and her disappearance to the Ward Tree for her Choosing was only considered one of her normal trips outside. Playful, when Arria is not donning her disguise as a boy and spending time in the nearby town, she spends her time teasing her younger brother (and spoiling him later with little gifts she finds to make up for it). The portion of Arria’s time not spend outside is taken up inside learning what she needs to know and gaining knowledge of trading. Intelligent, she has a knack for languages and cartography, but Arria has little interest in trading itself. However, she has enough manners to feign interest when it comes to dealing with matters or when offering help to her family, however rare that is. She admires her older sister somewhat, although her feelings on helping her in the business in a few years are conflicting and she is not sure if she wants to. She is more open and honest to her younger brother, although she spends most of her time teasing him rather than talking about her feelings. It will take some time for Arria to mature in order to catch up with her older sister and while her somewhat protective guardian Castus is a help, she still has a ways to go before she will become what she needs to.
Lucia Redding (née Novantico) Character of: Asahi Kumoru Chosen by: Thalna, #4 (doe with cape) Description: The eldest daughter of the Novantico family, who went abroad to Sunderland to marry into the Ware family. She was the first of her line to set foot on Sunderland soil since the Novanticos were driven away during the Great War; her relatively prompt Choosing upon her arrival came as a great surprise, prompting the other members of her family to also make the journey to move back to Pallisade. Lucia is 19 and a skilled businesswoman, learned in maths and figures -- perhaps why she married so late. However she loves her new husband, and is pleased to be some of the brains behind Mister Simon Redding’s budding business in Pallisade. Old friends remember her as quiet and a touch disagreeable, however some combination of her marriage and her family’s return to Sunderland seem to have put new and kinder spirits into the young lady. Some find her overbearing or unladylike due to her social nature and intelligence, but Lucia appears uninhibited … particularly since she now no longer needs to impress any more than one man in the world. Still, Lucia also sticks to other more traditionally feminine hobbies like cooking and embroidery, though now she must also contend with her husband’s cook and help. Though she dotes on her younger brother, she has more obviously mixed feelings for her younger sister. While Lucia is not exactly the perfect picture of womanhood and knows it, she takes pride in her education and skill -- if she is going to be whispered about for behaving as a man, she wants it to be at least an educated businessman, not a wandering ragamuffin. She loves Arria dearly, and so wishes she would behave a bit more nicely, for her own sake.
About the family The Novantico family is a very old one indeed, though they were not native to Sunderland originally. In the first century, the wide-spanning Palatian Empire reached Sunderland seeking to conquer and subjugate it; fierce resistance from the native peoples led them to change quickly to a less hostile approach of colonization. The first Novanticos appear in records of one of these early colonies, though current family history recalls little of these times. The bit of most importance is that it was tradition among the Palatians to send colonists with sculptures of wolves to act as guardians, just as their legions carried eagles into battle. The founding myth of the Palatian capital described two legendary brothers nurtured to adulthood by a she-wolf.
By the fifth century, Palatian influence was fading as the empire fell under attack on multiple fronts by other tribes, and cutthroat politics and strife ate away at the once-mighty imperials from the inside. Though some of their colonies lived in relative harmony with the natives of Sunderland, many of them, and all of the legionaries, withdrew to fight other battles. Some Palatians remained behind, however, having gradually integrated with the native peoples. The Novanticos were one such house - they had gained particular favor as merchants in the iron trade, which had grown in demand as Palatian withdrawal prompted some native clans to renew old feuds.
Iron was also of great importance for its properties against fairies. During the War of Flowers, the Novanticos did their part to ensure that the import of ore continued, and iron was available to help defend against the supernatural. The family’s influence grew considerably during the war, as a greater abundance of records indicate; the war established their wealth and power, and by its conclusion, the Novanticos were fielding some troops of their own.
And so they remained, comfortably wealthy, until the onset of the Great War. The patriarch at the time still possessed the family’s ancient colonial guardian wolf, which attracted considerable attention as the wolves became adversaries. Almost overnight, fortunes turned against the Novanticos, and an angry mob of local villagers, unwilling to believe that they were not involved with the wolf attacks, burnt portions of the Novanticos’ property and ultimately drove them from Sunderland.
Since that time, they have lived abroad, gradually rebuilding their fortune and status outside of Sunderland and fearful of returning. However, it’s easy to say that traditions were upkept. After all, in such hard times, their loyal protector, the guardian wolf, must certainly still be keeping them safe. Similar to how the people of Sunderland offer cream, wine, and other delicate items to the Fae, the Novanticos offer up deer meat, bits of precious metals, and furs to their guardian statue. Even years after driven from Sunderland, the tradition has continued. After all, they’ve been kept alive, haven’t they?
Lucia was the first to set foot on Sunderland soil since the Great War, when she travelled there with her new husband. In her first letter back to her parents, the arrival of the deer Thalna took up more of the page than even news of Simon Redding. All of the children had heard stories about the deer of Sunderland while they grew up abroad, however none but their father Gerard knew of the family’s history of involvement in the old Great War. With the Choosing of his daughter, he saw this as a form of absolution for whatever the perceived past sins of his forefathers had been, and promptly sought to move the rest of the family back across the Iron Sea. His wife Lenora worries that whatever supernatural absolution may not extend to Gerard, however, as only his children have been Chosen, and not the merchant patriarch himself.
Maybe because he brought the ancient wolf guardian statue with him anyway….
CHARACTER NAME ❧ Lady Chrysanthemum Fitzpercy (19 years old) Character of: kotaline Chosen by: Marigold, Cloaked doe (#4) Description: Lady Chrysanthemum Fitzpercy is a young and spoiled woman bored out of her tiny mind. Unable to work due to the constraints of her social position, and unwilling to work in any job that doesn't involve living the plot of some of her more fantastical novels, she instead spends time harassing her brother and studying history so as to better be able to daydream about the romantic exploits of their heathen Airish ancestors. Smarter than she lets on, she could have a canny political career were she a man, but instead is forced to find her own amusement in society. Floundering for a purpose, she pays undue attention to the political situation in Airelund, believing that she could be of use somehow, or perhaps just looking for a cause to invigorate her. Since her young Airish cousins have suffered social misfortune and been obliged to come live with her family in Sunderland, she has hounded them with her preconceived notions of Airelund and admired everything Airish about them that fits in with her fantasies. Her guardian, Marigold, has further sparked her daydreams, and being chosen has lent her agency that she lacked previously. Marigold herself is a somewhat timid and quiet doe, who attached herself to Chrysanthemum because of the strength of her ideals, and her very vocal discussions of things that she believes in. Marigold feels that Chrysanthemum is a doer, where she is too frightened to do much, but is coming to realise that Chrysanthemum is also terrified of acting, and lives vicariously through her words and daydreams. The steady realisation of this fact makes Marigold more nervous than ever, and she feels frustrated, but finds that it's easier to grow complacent and let Chrysanthemum pamper and dress her than it is to speak out and do something. Marigold is beginning to feel like a fat pet, but fears that she cannot bring herself to stand up to her Chosen after all.
CHARACTER NAME ❧ Sir Larkspur Fitzpercy (21 years old) Character of: Rookeries Chosen by: Pansy, Cloaked buck (#3) Description: Sir Larkspur is an ambitious young noble and heir of the Fitzpercy line. As a child, he grew up with tales of faraway Airelund and his charges there, allowing him to formulate quiet plans for when he became Earl Ranelagh. He's quickly come to realize that these plans were very far-fetched and incredibly romantic, however, and is working on shouldering more realistic tasks to get more immediate concerns addressed. Unfortunately, Larkspur finds it difficult not to over-idealize and takes it upon himself to get as many things done as possible by himself, making him ever-so-busy. On the off-chance that Larkspur finds it in himself to take a break, he chooses to do so by doting and spoiling his younger sister and cousins with elaborate gifts. To Chrysanthemum, his younger sister, he owes the greatest attentions, and he spends many evenings inquiring about her day and gifting her with books of Airish tales and scholarly literature. As the years have passed, however, Larkspur finds that these books have helped make her quite heady, making it difficult for him to command her proper respects.
Pansy, like his chosen, is an active-minded but otherwise scatterbrained doe who eagerly chases Larkspur around on his daily errands. He is, however, left behind with darling Marigold and Lady Chrysanthemum more often than he would like, as a consequence of Larkspur being unsure how to manage taking care of his buck between other more heir-like duties. As a result, Pansy feeds off of his chosen's sister and her ambitions tenfold, making him a somewhat cumbersome charge for Larkspur to deal with. Despite Larkspur's consternation over Pansy's hyperactivity, the heir does appreciate many of the things the buck provides that his sister-- and, to his opinion, the rest of his family and its associates-- do not provide, including respect, admiration, and open love.
CHARACTER NAME ❧ Lady Rhododendron Fitzthomas (20 years old) Character of: knife effect Chosen by: Asclepsias, Red buck (#2) Description: Lady "Rhodie" Rhododendron is a reserved, haughty young woman who frowns at anything meant to motivate her to make something of herself. Growing up, Rhododendron was, naturally, a common target for her family elders' criticism. Being an only child allowed Rhododendron to easily gather attention, for the better and for the worse.The Fitzthomas title means little to Rhododendron, for her own personal aspirations were much more important to her, albeit petty. Despite their frustration towards her, her family slowly began to accept that her idiotic lifelong goals were the result of them spoiling her for the majority of her childhood. All Rhododendron wants out of life is to to have things she enjoys from fiction to be realized. Secret gardens and exotic menageries--she wanted to own them all; she cared little for who her suitors were, so long as they could satisfy her childish hopes and dreams. Outside her life goals, however, Rhododendron is anything but an idealist. Pragmatic and self-serving, Rhodie is a firm believer in leverage, shortcuts, and simplicity. If there's an easier method to accomplish something, Rhododendron would choose such method in a heartbeat. Yet, her practical side was always at odds with her competitive nature. As she matured into adulthood, Rhododendron wanted nothing more than to "outdo" the other aristocratic women around her. She was always watchful enough never to do so through exerting too much of her own efforts, but through the unconditional love of those around her. It's not so much that Rhododendron is cruel, but that she cannot conceptualize the idea of hard work and selflessness. Hypocritical, snobbish, and opinionated, Rhodi generally sees her perspective as superior, although she is, at least, clever enough to back down when it becomes blatantly obvious that she is wrong. As she ascended into adulthood, she developed a strained, passive aggressive relationship with the rest of the Fitzthomases. Therefore, it comes to no-one's surprise that Rhododendron was sent to Sunderland while the Fitzthomas' financial struggles were privately dealt with. For the Fitzthomases, sending Rhododendron to Sunderland was beneficial not only to their financial relief, but Rhododendron's personal growth as well. Sunderland, to the Fitzthomases, was an opportunity to expose Rhododendron to young people her age that truly understood the reality of their family's noble role.
Asclepias, unlike his Chosen, pines for a higher sense of purpose. He wishes that his Chosen treated him less like a fairy tale pet and more as an intelligent equal. Despite his Chosen's attitude towards him, however, Aseclepias is still nonetheless proud of being her truest friend. Blindly loyal and slow-witted, Asclepias is easily swayed by his Chosen's ideals and actions. He sees her as someone worth following not because of what she does, but because of what she doesn't do. It's genius, to Asclepias, that someone could achieve so much by doing so little. Asclepias therefore accepts his Chosen as among the best and the brightest, which in return, makes him feel some sense of self-worth as her Guardian. Docile and understanding, Asclepias provides company to Rhododendron's otherwise lonely life, and gives her companionship that she secretly enjoys very much. To Rhododendron, Asclepias is her Chosen of sterling worth. He is her golden goose, her last unicorn, and most importantly, someone that genuinely accepted her as faultless and kind. Unfortunately, Rhododendron has a great difficulty conveying her feelings towards her Guardian because she is horribly unfamiliar with communicating thankfulness to others. While Rhododendron wouldn't like to admit it, her personality makes it hard for her to keep meaningful friendships (or friendships at all). She worries that her Guardian may one day see her as someone undeserving of his friendship.
CHARACTER NAME ❧ Lady Lavender Fitzthomas (12 years old) Character of: ex o ex Snoof Chosen by: Thistle, Red doe (#1) Description: One daughter of five, with another on the way, Lavender is rather unremarkable when paired beside her sisters. This has always been a point of contention for her since she noticed that, as the middle child, she is neither favored nor spoiled. Most often Lavender is overlooked in favor of those older or younger than her. At twelve years, she has yet to make any accomplishments or perform noteworthy actions for the family. She is not yet old enough to be looked at by suitors or take on the greater responsibilities of her family but she is no longer young enough to merely skirt by without lifting a finger. In her desperation to stand out, Lavender cares little whether the attention she receives is positive or negative; if she's getting punished then at least their eyes and thoughts are on her in that moment. Lavender takes care not to spoil people's opinions of her. She knows it isn't convenient if all of the attention on her is negative and will often be sweet as can be on first impression, sometimes going out of her way to compliment or assist others -- especially if she wants something from them. It isn't unusual for her to favor certain people, normally only one or two at a time, until their usefulness or entertainment value wears out. Most things, lavender feels, should cater to her in some fashion and if she can't find a way to make them do that then they aren't worth her time. When her family decided they needed financial and family assistance, and with another child on the way the only way to remedy the situation immediately was to send off one of their own, Lavender jumped at the chance. While she does not know her cousins, she feels this is for the better; it gives her an opportunity for a fresh start and ensures she won't be bored for a while.
The guardian doe Thistle is often exasperated by her human charge. While she cares deeply for Lavender and holds no regret in being paired with her, the girl knows how to wear Thistle's patience thin. She is grateful for any time Lavender is preoccupied but she does hold a sense of loyalty. Thistle knows she needs this human, just as any other guardian needs their chosen, and will do everything to protect her but she does not make excuses for the child's poor behavior. If she had words they would often hold apology but, as she does not, instead Thistle holds a humble air and keeps her head bowed low. Unfortunately this allows Lavender to take more advantage of her guardian. Lavender treats her title of chosen as one of status and will take every opportunity to ride upon Thistle to drive this home. Chosen and Guardians demand respect, Lavender assures the doe while holding her ears like handle bars as she rides unsaddled upon her back. Thistle will defend her charge and their noble family at every turn but secretly she hopes Lavender's cousins will break her of her nastier habits and instill a more pleasant attitude in the girl.
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NIALL MOR FITZTHOMAS, XIX EARL OF DESMOND: Lady Rhodendron's father and the Earl of Desmond, he is the older brother of Lord Fergus Fitzthomas of Desmond. They are the Airish line that the Sunderlandian Fitzpercy nobles married into long ago. Despite his previous power as a high Airish authority, backed by the Fitzpercy line, new Sunderlandian powers and the hardships of the reclamation powers have significantly lessened his power and financial status. LORD FERGUS FITZTHOMAS OF DESMOND: Lady Lavender's father and the younger brother and heir of Desmond. CATHAL FITZPERCY VIII EARL OF RANELAGH: Earl Ranelagh, Sir Larkspur and Lady Chrysanthemum's father, is the highest member of the Fitzpercy noble house. He lives with his wife, Countess Lily in their sizable estate in Sunderland. CONNOR CONAILL: The estate manager of Earl Ranelagh VIII who was hired under Cathal's father. He is highly knowledgeable of the Fitzpercy Airish lands and frequently traveled their to work with Earl Fitzthomas and the other lords of Desmond.
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FITZPERCY ESTATE: The second biggest yet most prominent estate to the Fitzpercy name. The estate is located on the northern part of Palisade near the Highroad. AMARANTHUS ESTATE: The biggest estate and country home of the Fitzpercys. It is located near Aster's Landing and is used to entertain the important guests of house Fitzpercy. The Fitzpercy gardens and agriculture here are noteworthy, and anyone willing to make the travel northward to the country will be heartily welcomed. FOXGLOVE MANOR: A small, modest, but robust Fitzpercy estate located at the heart of Oldcastle. This land was once called the Fitzpercy estate, but the family has since moved most of their operations to their manor in Palisade. FREESIA'S LANDING: A small city home on the eastern end of Kingsroad, and a proper resting place for any traveling Fitzpercy and Fitzthomas. ASTER'S LANDING: A modest-sized home in the Fitzpercy-run coastal city, Aster, that hugs the Iron Sea. It is governed by Earl Cathal of Ranelagh's younger brother.
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ROSSLEE: The most prominent of the Fitzpercys' Airish estates. Rosslee includes a stretch of coastline which allows for shipping and fishing industry, as well as verdant land for planting, and one of the few masonry castles in the southwest of Aireland is located within the bounds of Rosslee, carefully preserved by the family. Near the castle, in his own modest country home, lives the estate manager, Conor Conaill. DUN CONLETH: A more modest and hilly estate belonging to the Fitzpercys, Dun Conleth is where their smaller and more private Airish residence is, a more modern building far more comfortable than the 12th century castle, meant to evoke the romantic notion of Airish simplicity. LOUGH BLIOCHAN: The largest remaining land holdings of the Fitzthomas family, held by Earl Niall Mor XIX. The former seat of the estate was in a masonry castle located on a small island in the middle of Lough Bliochan, the lake which the property is named for, but a more modern estate has now been erected nearby. The land is not terribly profitable, and tends to run somewhat wild, but covers many acres. KINCLARE: A modest estate belonging to Lord Fergus Fitzthomas.
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act i.►TRACK I. Mungo's Delight ►TRACK II. The Strasbourgeoise Cotillion
The time is evening, during winter. We begin our play with the prodigal Fitzpercy children, Sir Larkspur Fitzpercy and Lady Chrysanthemum Fitzpercy, with their recently welcomed cousins, Lady Rhododendron Fitzthomas and young Lavender Fitzthomas. The young Fitzthomas patrons have come only a season ago from their separate estates in Airelund, wherefore their families had no choice but to send their daughters to their affluent Sunderlandian kin. The Fitzthomas lines are faltering financially and socially as unrest begins to grow in Airelund due to the abusive practices of the neglectful new nobility and as their financial resources, which have dwindled in the two hundred years since the Reclamation Wars, have become unsupportable. Sir Larkspur and Lady Chrysanthemum both found their sympathies with their Airish cousins as old Sunderlandian-Airish blood feel both threatened and thinned from the newer and more recently Sunderlandian Airish nobility, whose wider political and economic connections have made headway both in Airish politics and trade.
Despite their sympathies to their Airish cousins, however, Sir Larkspur and Lady Chrysanthemum have led soft lives in their Sunderlandian estate. In truth, though the Fitzpercy line's marriage into Airelund long ago, Sir Larkspur and Lady Chrysanthemum have never been to Airelund themselves, and their family's properties in Airelund have largely been tended to by their estate manager. They dreamed-- or, perhaps, continue to dream-- of future ventures in Airelund, and their passions venture far. The Fitzpercy and Fitzthomas's unlikely Choosings by the Wood have been met with mixed regards, but to young Sir Larkspur, he hopes that this will re-establish their ties to their Airish kin and deconstruct the long-standing political strain between Airelund and Sunderland. It is, perhaps, not their first choice in uniting, as the Old Ways are grounded largely in Sunderlandian tradition, but it is no longer time to be choosy.
LADY CHRYSANTHEMUM: Deep within the rugged landscape of a yet untouched Hibernia, the bold Conleth Ui Muirgheasa rallied his modest but proud clan to him. His fiery locks were matted, but in his gaze there was the quiet dignity and leadership of even the greatest statesmen that my brother now works with regularly. He was a steady ruler, little aware that within short months, his family would be torn from their heritage by invaders posing as guests. Luckily for them, one of the invading families was not unsympathetic to their plight, and indeed, bonds of love would cross cultural barriers and tie their fates together for-ever. Though the family eventually was split cruelly between Sunderland and Airelund as the generations passed, the bond between them was of a sort which neither time, nor politics, nor the vagaries of courtly manners could sever, and when the dreadfully downtrodden Airish people let forth their melodious wails of despair, ground down by the oppressor's heel, the newly dubbed Fitzpercy family would remember their relatives in Airelund, born of the noble Fitzthomas line and the aforementioned Ui Muirgheasa with a sympathetic tear in their eyes, and a p***k in their hearts. Who but the coldest, most dreadful Sunderlander could turn away the daughters of Fitzthomas, so young, so innocent, and so full of Airish spirit? Certainly not my brother, who is charming and sensible, although sadly out of touch with his heritage. At this meal, I raise a toast to him, Sir Larkspur Fitzpercy, for petitioning my father to take in these daughters of the rebellion who I already love so dearly as if they were my own sweet sisters.
SIR LARKSPUR: I give you my love and thanks, my dearest Chrysanthemum, but we shall not wax poetic overmuch on the nature of Airish ancestry today. To our darling cousins-- whom we regard as, indeed, dear sisters of our own, not as "daughters of the rebellion"-- the heart of my sister's sentiments ring ever-true, of course, and the Fitzpercy estate eagerly welcomes you to enjoy all matters of Sunderlandian life, and by no means will we treat you any differently from our Sunderlandian kin. Let us fondly regard my darling sister for her enchanting use of the Sunderlandian language, and let us also recall the exemplary Airish literature, from which she draws her unique inspiration from everyday. I raise a toast to you, Lady Chrysanthemum Fitzpercy, for your remarkable eloquence and undying loyalties to her Airish lineage.
LADY CHRYSANTHEMUM: Dearest brother, your toast has moved me to suggest another toast, so great are your speaking abilities, for, though we should embrace our dear, sweet cousins as any of our kin, should we ignore the fact that all four of us have been chosen by the guardians of the Wardwood? For what other reason could this unusual but happy circumstance occur but to remind us of our heritage on the other side of the Wardwood, our ties to those who are afflicted, through sending both ourselves and our cousins this rare sign? While mother and father have always been fair landlords to their Airish tenants, many Sunderlanders have not been so kind. The Wardwood once served to divide us from Airelund entirely, and it has hardened our hearts to their plight. Yet now that guardians have emerged from the wood once more, this cruel barrier seems less impenetrable, and we have clearly been selected in such abundance precisely because of our ties on both sides- to foster unity, to ease longstanding divisions, and to ensure that both sides of the Wardwood can be brought together in sweetest harmony to fend off the more malicious threat of wolves. To the guardians of the Wardwood, and to unity in the face of animosity, a toast!
SIR LARKSPUR: Sweet Chrysanthemum, how you speak so grandly of our family's life! Shall I raise another toast to your ingénue--ity-- ingenuity-- of remembering our kindred deer, but I shall say the strife between Airelund and Sunderland are more remarkably at peace than what the scholars of a decade or two past would find! My, how time does pass, does it not? And of course-- we come to dear Lavender and Rhododendron with eager arms not for their status as Chosen, not merely for some rare sign or happy circumstance, but because the Fitzpercys are not deaf to their estates' unfortunate plight this past year. I shall not forget my father's dear Airish brethren, of Earl Niall Mor Fitzthomas of Desmond nor anyone in between, whom I shall not regard for his country's fantastical tragedies but for his victories as an Airish lord who fought past the times of rebellions which, may I remind my dear, cautious sister again, has long past, and should not concern the hearts of our sweet cousins! We shall not look to them as mere ragged survivors, but as honored guests! Indeed, to our beloved Fitzthomas cousins, a toast, and shall we forget our histories with the merriment of our feast today!
LADY RHODODENDRON: "Sweet Larkspur", how kindly you speak of the Fitzthomas's "happy circumstance", for I am anything but glad to be present! Yet, it is plain truth that the Fitzthomases are in an unfortunate position; I have no objections to your (otherwise depressing) toast. I am grateful to my cousins for their considerate hearts, but I shall have them know that I, the wicked Rhododendron, will neither remain a survivor nor a guest for long. But fear not, cousins, for my words are not meant to poison our feast today. I, Rhododendron, am grateful to the Fitzpercys for their eager embrace. I raise my toast not simply as a Fitzthomas, but Fitzthomas that was Chosen. And though I care little for Earl Niall Mor's--my father's--victories, I hold his family in the highest regards. Dear cousins Chrysanthemum, Larkspur, and Lavender, may this feast bless us with great tidings in the seasons to come. Perhaps our status as Chosen implies more change than we know.
LADY LAVENDER: Dear cousins, Fitzpercy and fellow Fitzthomas, both! You speak of our troubles, what brought us here together under one roof, what heralded our choosing -- but oh, sweet cousins, you speak too much. If the Lady Lavender may make a toast, I toast to our continued good fortune, to the smiles of my cousins and the protection our guardians bring. I toast to the coming year and the chance to help our families. I toast, too, those who care for us here, who took us in when our prickled Rhododendron had nowhere to turn. I toast the roof over our heads, I toast the seats beneath our rears, I toast, I toast it all! Now please, my darlings, my sweet loves, may we toast the food on our plates that grows cold with all our talk? Or the drink in our glass which warms and sours? Our bellies may soon rebel and we will have another Airish skirmish on our hands.
SCENE END.
Posted: Wed Dec 25, 2013 2:15 am
COLLINS
Prominent Figures
Elavine Collins Character of: Ryuukishin Chosen by: Reuben, #3 (Fluffy Buck) Description: At the age of 20, Elavine is as vain as they come. It is not an outward thing but, rather, an inner drive that fosters ambition and pushes her to solicit compliments in what ways she can. Though her brother’s behavior may spurn others away, social events are her forte: birthdays, preferences, and the favored topics of numerous individuals come easily to her, and she is seen by many as a pleasant woman to be around – to the point where she often serves as the bridge between her family and those who come to seek their advice now that the guardians and the dangers associated with them have returned. However, her dependence on the attention of others has left her fickle; her pride is hollow, for it relies on the perception of others rather than how she sees herself. Reuben is the only solidity in her life, as his admiration of her is not only genuine, but palpable, too, though the mental connection between them. At first, she was bitter that he took away her chance of inheritance, but her brother is chosen, too. Perhaps, she thinks, not all hope is lost.
Evard Collins Character of: Eauo Chosen by: Zarra, #4 (Fluffy Doe) Description: Before he was chosen Evard was usually flippant and carefree, even arrogant at times. It could be grating for more prickly personalities but he knew when to take a moment seriously. His worst moments were likely the result of frustration on his end. After all, though he was two years younger than his sister, as the only son he was expected to take over the family name - but he never showed any affinity for hedge craft. For a family immersed in its pride, it was something of a blow to his own when, even after maturity, he still displayed no affinity for magic of any sort. It only became worse when he was chosen, and Evard’s usual playfulness took on a sharp, sometimes cruel, edge. Now he often finds that his thoughts wander regarding his lot in life. It hardly seems fair that something so strange and life altering should happen to him when he'd thought for the longest time he'd never amount to anything. Yet there is bitterness there, too, because as wonderful, strange, and frightening as his bond with Zarra can be there are times when he can't help but wish she never existed.
Parents
Isaac Collins Father to Elavine and Evard. As the sole hedge witch among his siblings, he inherited the family lands and maintains control over it. His hedgecraft aids him with keeping plants healthy, and he takes full advantage of it to brighten up the appearance of their estate. He is as prideful as his children, and loves them dearly – perhaps because they are the only ones left in the direct family line. A recent accident has left him infertile; the fact that both his children have been chosen adds to the family shame.
Natalie Collins Mother to Elavine and Evard. Natalie is the daughter to two hedge witch parents, though she isn’t one herself; evidently, she was chosen for her blood more than anything. She’s not a bad mother, but she has made it clear that the family’s name takes precedence before the family’s happiness.
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About the Family The Collins have always been seeped in the Old Ways; a great many of them were hedge witches, and as a result they believe in magic above all – especially since the events of the War of Flowers. Magic may have been the source of bane for many during the time, but it was a blessing, too. It kept them alive when all the world seemed to work against them, and with its help they were able to escape and find a haven on the fringes of Sunderland. Their strong abilities allowed them to obtain titles early on, and since then their family has been held in high esteem. It has expanded since then, though the direct line from the first of the Collins has dwindled as of late, leaving only Elavine and Evard as potential heirs.
They’ve never forgotten their debt to magic, as evident by the prestige the witch bloodline is given within the family. Inheritance is decided not by order of birth or sex, but is instead given to the child who first displays promising magical ability, on the assumption that time can do nothing but better an individual’s skills. The fact that the majority of witches were female did little to hinder their choice; after all, a woman could not be cuckolded so easily as a man, and they can proudly boast of the certainty of their lines. To work with the society at large, they betrothed her to a distant cousin and made trusts and settlements to favor the wife, were she the inheritor – and they were not below using underhanded tactics to enforce it. At the very least, in generations without hedge witches, inheritance would go to the first born son. Largely, however, they managed to maintain their unusual ways by falling out of popular society – a feat which has become much easier, and much more crucial, since the disappearance of the guardians and the growing antagonism towards the Old Ways.
However, the prestige from days of old is hard forgotten. Unable to lean on their inborn abilities for support, they have largely turned towards other means to maintain the prominence of their name, as evident by the pride and vanity the current members bear, and the number of balls and other social events they host. In spite of their efforts, many were tentative about mingling with them due to their ties with the Old Ways, but this has changed greatly as of late. Now, many flock to their doors, seeking their council against the threat of Gwyn and his Wolves.
Strangely enough, none of their own have ever been chosen – at least, not until now. It was perhaps because of their affinity to magic that Evard was chosen so early on, late in the year of 1795. It lent credibility to the family at a time when few believed in the Old Ways, and fewer still believed in magic, but it was a wary credibility, for they soon discovered none could be both a witch and a chosen at once. Elavine thought it would ensure her inheritance, but was proven wrong two years later when, after she and her brother had attended the ball and come out unscathed, she found herself chosen as well. But magic is magic, she feels, and she’s not given up on the inheritance just yet. Still, only time will tell. Winter approaches once more – the first in which both siblings have guardians of their own, and there is word that even more of their name have been chosen as well...
Ryuukishin
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thyPOPE
Devoted Hoarder
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Posted: Wed Dec 25, 2013 2:51 am
THE NOBLE HOUSE OF ADDISON
Prominent figures
Lord Eberhard Fairfax, Duke of Hartower, Earl of Windham, Baron of Chariot's Landing and Allston, age 51 Character of: thyPOPE Chosen by: Hedgewitch, non-chosen Description: One of the few members of the House of Lords who seems to care about his seat of political power, Duke Hartower is famously both unattractive (he has a crooked nose and strange, patchy skin) and eccentric. He married into the Addison family, because he saved Alinne's father Marcus in a disastrous fire (he took the title of Duke only because his young son was too, well, young to do so, or so he claims). A captain in Sunderland’s army and baron in his own right (the house Fairfax holds the rights to the barony of Chariot's Landing), Eberhard is often weighed down by his duties: he attends every meeting of the House of Lords that he can, and he's quite awful at delegation, preferring to examine his estates on his own as often as possible. Unfortunately, though, his preference for participating in legislation and political games has led to a decline in the family's fortunes. He's a strongly principled but serious man with a propensity for both history and for political maneuvers, and a great faith (inherited from his own family) in the effectiveness of the Old Ways. His family knows him as a loving but distant father who's in over his head when it comes to games of money. Until recent events, he has treated Patrick Addison with annoyed indifference.
Patrick Addison, age 48 Character of: saedusk Chosen by: Berenice, #4 - the caped doe Description: Despite his status as a b*****d child of the Addison family, Patrick refuses to be considered anything but an Addison. Though bitter over the hand he was dealt after the death of his half-brothers, he is particularly skilled at hiding his true emotions—and let's not forget vendettas—behind a mask of joviality. He's been noted a good and gracious host, if not overbearingly so, as he understands the value of connections. In fact, he'd be most anyone's closest friend and confidant of the somewhat forward variety, at least until they outlived their usefulness. Ear constantly to the grape vine, Patrick trades in rumors and secrets, which, partnered with a keen eye for detail, keeps him well informed and armed for or against any cause he sees fit. Still, he is not the most trustworthy of fellows, as many of his actions are motivated solely by what would suit him and no one else.
Lord Septimus Addison (informally Earl of Windham), age 30 Character of: Soldier of Song Chosen by: Honey, #2 - fluffy buck Description: Militant and straight-edged, Septimus is the eldest of the Addisons and never fails to act the part. Of all of the siblings he has always been the one with the closest relationship to their father, holding him in high regard as both a parent and role model. It was their mother's stories of the man that inspired him to follow in his father's footsteps and join the military. Over the course of his employment has risen in the ranks to attain the position of a major, and takes the entire business very seriously. He is an extremely disciplined, humorless individual, and though he can be less than charming, his diligence and careful nature have allowed him to marry, more for practicality than out of love. He is incredibly loyal to his father and shares many of his political views, spurning his younger brother's greedy outlook with more concern for the future of their country than his own wealth or power.
Lord Zachary Addison (informally Baron of Allston), age 25 Character of: kamileunaire Chosen by: Brisa, #4 (the front most doe) Description: As the middle son, Zach has always suffered in his eldest brother's shadow and seeks to make his own way in the world - whether that entails stepping on his family's toes or not. Outspoken, opinionated, and sometimes outright obnoxious, Zach enjoys attention and usually gets more than his fair share (both positive and negative), from siblings and friends alike. He has an intense rivalry with his older brother Septimus, but because he is not in line to inherit any of his father's estate he is constantly on the lookout for opportunities to better himself and his position, hungry for the wealth he might have otherwise held were it not for his older brother. Despite this desire, however, he still has a lot to learn in the ways of running an estate whether he is aware of it or not, and can still behave irresponsibly at times. He partakes of frivolity and merrymaking more than he ought to, and whether or not he'll grow out of this troublesome habit is still to be seen. He has a very affectionate relationship with his younger sister and never fails to dote on her when he can.
Lady Cecelia Addison, age 23 Character of: Melancholies Chosen by: Vormund, Cloaked Buck, #3 Description: A would be peace-keeper if she had the guts, Cecelia is the youngest daughter of Eberhard. She's nothing if not torn over who to support for the inheritance claim. Thoroughly exasperated, she finds the entire problem to be tiring and inane; regardless, she still finds herself in the middle of the conflict. Her complex of desperately wanting to gain her eldest brother Septimus' approval means she uneasily supports her father, though she secretly wishes for the feud to end, despite what she might say outwardly for the sake of appearances. Still, Cecelia's habit of letting people walk all over her means she probably wouldn't be the one to settle the dispute, but her new status as a chosen almost makes her want to try... if it's even worth the effort, at this point.
Alinne (Addison), Duchess of Hartower, age 44 Character of: NPC Chosen by: non-chosen Description: The youngest daughter of three, Alinne never expected anything but the title of 'Lady'. She accepted Eberhard's proposal despite his relatively low status because he was clever, an already well-ranked captain within the army, and because he was known for his heroism: he saved her father from a fire, which made him known to her. The deaths of both of her brothers before producing heirs led to a strange phenomenon: her toddler Septimus was the only appropriate heir, and so she and her husband stepped in to take the title for him, at least until he was older...of course, now he is of age. She's a capable mother to her own three children, although she and Eberhard are not particularly in love.
About the family
The House of Addison (which historically holds the duchy of Hartower, the earldom of Windham, and the barony of Allston) is one known for the death of spiritual influence - it is not, of course, a house that rallies itself against the old ways, but hedgewitches that have married into it have not produced the same ability in their own children. Some would say it's a curse but the Addisons have always said it was a blessing. It kept their mighty house free of bias during the War of Flowers, and it keeps them level-headed today. While they have always made concessions to the spirits, the family has traditionally always done so in the knowledge that they are humans first, and any allegiance granted by the spirits is not a product of bias but of merit. Theirs is a proud tradition, and hedgewitches who marry into the family generally do so with knowledge of the strange limitation placed upon the house’s descendants. Though they generally honor the Old Ways - mostly through their tradition of the Divining, and the family members’ frequent offering to the Wardwood. Few, though, still believe the tales of spirits and spirit-wolves.
THE DIVINING The Divining is a celebration of a new child being born into the family. This ceremony entails allowing the child to freely pick from a range of objects laid out on a table in front of it; these objects vary from food (small sweets, shallow saucers of cream, and other treats the spirits are believed to enjoy) to metal or wooden baubles and sometimes little toys or other objects. The objects the child chooses are said to predict his or her future - whether future personality or future passion - and are also given to the Wardwood as offerings to ensure the child's standing with the spirits. The objects themselves are taken note of, and the child is encouraged in later life to offer similar objects to the Wardwood when they wish for fortune. It is one of the Addison traditions most in alignment with the Old Ways.
COMING OF AGE A more light-hearted tradition that is sometimes carried out alongside the children's studies, it is not required, but always encouraged nonetheless. When they reach their fifteenth year, it is a voluntary custom to show their growing responsibility by taking in and caring for a pet of their own, usually a hunting hound, though other types of animals are acceptable as well (kingshawks, rabbits, sometimes horses). Cats and grimalkins are forbidden, mostly because they require close to no care.
THE ASHEN AUGURY This traditional 'ceremony' is carried out either before an engagement is made official, or sometimes on the night before the wedding takes place (if they're feeling particularly dramatic, although generally this reading is supplementary to the one taken prior to the engagement itself) to tell whether the union will be auspicious or not. Paper copies of the crests of both individuals' houses are burned, and then the patterns left behind in the ashes are read to determine how lucky/successful the marriage will be. It’s a Fairfax tradition rather than an Addison one, but (depending on who you ask) the families are essentially the same now, and Septimus certainly followed this one when it came to his own marriage.
THE HOUSE'S HOLDINGS The House of Addison presides over a large amount of land. The duchy of Hartower is a relatively small one in regards to real estate (only six manors, including the main one near Hartower itself and several others spread throughout Sunderland), but a large one when one considers that it encompasses a town with a rather significant population. It’s a thriving town that tends to run itself, but the Addison family traditionally resolves very large disagreements with an audience day. Alinne oversees the manors under its name for the most part, although Patrick has taken up lodging in the one nearest Palisade. The family generally requires stewards to run this estate, though; it’s a very large responsibility.
The earldom of Windham is a simpler land to manage, containing a small town and a plantation overlooked by an estate generally managed, for now, by Septimus and family (Septimus takes the income produced by Windham, but does not formally own the land). It produces fruit trees and contains a large garden with a hedge maze, but the plantation is primarily home to the Addison family’s aviary and hunting hounds. They have a proud tradition of hawks and dogs, with their genealogy all documented with just as much meticulous attention as most nobles afford their horses. (The family’s horses are lodged in stables throughout their holdings, and while they are valuable for their worth in gold, they are not as personally valued by the members of the Addison house).
The barony of Allston is a port town with a fort and lighthouse rather than a manor, and it was clearly awarded to some general in the family’s illustrious past. For now, Zachary receives his primary income from this estate. It’s profitable for its bustling trade but lacks notable resources other than the nearby ocean and the fort itself (and the weapons within).
Lastly, Chariot’s Landing is a small town a little ways out from the Wardwood formed at the location of, if you will believe it, a chariot breaking down as it ran from its pursuers during the War of Flowers, which are thought to have been, well, lupine in nature. Its town center is a large garden with a collection of blossoms, and here the Fairfax family has traditionally made its home on a nearby manor and plantation. It’s a proud, fussy town with a high amount of faith in the Old Ways encouraged by the long line of Fairfax barons. The plantation produces cotton and the town itself is known for the high quality of its textiles - a strange thought, for one would think that it tended more to carpentry or equestrian matters from the name.
THE TALE OF TWO OUTSIDERS For as long as anyone can remember, the nobility have employed the aid of beasts in their most time-honored tradition of the hunt. The Hawk and the Hound have always served their masters well, and they act as cherished partners in man's ritualistic pastime. Cultivated throughout the generations, it is understandable that these creatures came to possess an incredible amount of pride over their standing. So great was their hubris that they often lorded it over the other animals under man's employ, who could rarely do anything about it.
"The humble horse can only carry the master to his destination, but he will never seek out the fox from above, or keep the angry boar at bay, as he balks so quickly from danger." Hawk observed one afternoon from his perch, preening haughtily as his partner lay nearby. "Aye, and the cat is quick to brag about her own ability to hunt, yet I am sure you will not see the master calling her to his side, or allowing her a spot inside by the fire." The Hound stretched in his bed of hay, his eyes sparkling with amusement. They would spend entire evenings in this manner, talking themselves up and discussing the glory of their most recent hunt. Though their intentions were not necessarily sinister, it still served to wear on the nerves of their fellow beasts.
As the days wore on, the other animals beneath man began to tire of the endless bragging. Though the master employed both equally, rare was the case that he would bring both Hawk and Hound on a single hunt. Each had his own strength, after all, and it seemed a well known fact, until one day, fed up with their behavior, Horse spoke up to Hawk one day while the master was out on a rabbit hunt.
Duke Marcus Addison of Hartower and his wife Odessa were the previous sovereigns of the family’s considerable holdings. They had two sons quite early in their marriage - Manfred, the eldest (set to inherit), and Sylvester, a flighty but loving child. Theirs was a successful marriage, for their holdings were prosperous and they were both quick when it came to matters of the economy. That was the only standard that mattered, of course, and if Marcus had eyes for another woman...well, the family prospered, did it not? Without Odessa’s knowledge, he fathered a son (to be named Patrick) with that very mistress, whose birth was quickly followed by that of young, lovely Alinne, as though Marcus wished to prove something.
The family and its holdings continued to prosper, and Marcus formed connections with all the right members of the peerage. After a dinner party in the Windham estate one night, the guests emptied themselves into the luxurious gardens - something the place was rather renowned for. It was well-lit by torches, a clever decision for it truly was late at night. It was also an unfortunate one: some clumsy guest tipped one over, sending shouts of fire throughout the party and spurring the festivities to a halt. The young Lord Eberhard Fairfax (who happened to have been invited to the gathering), heir to the barony of Chariot’s Landing, thought quickly: he pulled Duke Marcus from the fire himself (though his young son Sylvester was tragically lost in the fire), and was valiant in his firefighting efforts. This forged the beginning of an alliance between the houses.
Two years later, despite his almost frightening countenance and relatively low comparative rank, Lord Eberhard Fairfax announced his engagement to Lady Alinne Addison, a woman who was certain to bring with her a large dowry. Not one month later, Lord Manfred Addison (then allowed the courtesy title of Earl of Windham) announced his own engagement to a lovely woman from a different family.
The Addison family moved on. They had by now of course begun rebuilding the extensive gardens at Windham, and begun erecting a maze - an idea Odessa had always found intriguing. Sylvester, of course, could not be replaced, but a memorial to him was erected in the maze’s center. The house’s properties grew in value, as they always had. House Addison, aware of its strengths, would prosper again. Or so they thought - suddenly and tragically, both Marcus and Manfred lost their lives in a fight against a disease sweeping the nation. Manfred left behind a widow who’d never produced heirs, and Marcus left behind a great dilemma.
Who was to inherit now?
Alinne, of course, was a woman, and already bound to her duties as Baroness of Chariot’s Landing (for Eberhard’s father had passed away quite peacefully in his own time). Her husband was on the verge of being promoted to Major (he had been contacted about purchasing his commission), after all, in addition to titled in his own right. Patrick Addison emerged in answer, having been raised in secret by his mother and paid a relatively generous allowance by his father growing up: a man with the Addison cheekbones and finely angled chin who claimed to be Marcus’ son. Odessa, though, knew (obviously) that he was no child of hers, and his emergence brought a scandal to the Addison name. Yet Alinne’s only son was merely two years of age. Odessa and the Hartower stewards came up with a solution: Baron Fairfax would take hold of the land in his son’s name until he came of age (although they the stewards would have, they thought, the true power). Yet unexpectedly Eberhard took well to the sudden change in his lifestyle, stepping down from the military to participate in Parliament and oversee his suddenly considerable estates. And the Hartower stewards got their pay for a smaller burden than they’d had.
"When I was out hunting with the master last week, I heard Hound insist that he could do the work of ten hawks put together. Sharp eyes are no match for a sharp nose." Horse whispered, which set Hawk's feather's on end, the flame of jealousy and anger sparked.
Hound was the next to fall prey to false rumor, for Cat approached him the next time the master took Hawk out on a search for quail. "Hawk was talking the other day," she said, lazily cleaning her paw, "about how loud and sloppy Hound is. The master's quarry always sees him coming from miles away." Her news set him growling and wondering how his old friend could utter such slanderous words.
So life went on. Eberhard and Alinne bore two more children in turn, as Duke and Duchess of Hartower, and Patrick settled for making a home for himself in the Hartower manor closest to Palisade. In Eberhard’s relative negligence, Patrick ran a tight ship. He created a trading company using the income he’d received from his father as he’d aged (he was, after all, still a loved son of Addison, even though he was not a legitimate one), and traded both goods and secrets. He cozied up to those with power and money, and gained for himself favors and gifts as Eberhard made allies and enemies in the House of Lords.
As Septimus came of age, though, Eberhard did not hand his title and duties over. It made sense at first: Septimus had to acquire experience overseeing a small portion of the holdings first. Was that not true? And Septimus had idolized his father, following in his path through the military. It seemed as though, however, Septimus was far more invested in the military than he was in his family’s lands. Naturally, some supposed, Eberhard might give the lands over to the younger son, Zachary, in his own turn. Also naturally, he did not, a decision that would have no small significance later on - when the guardians of the Wardwood began again to choose Wardens from the population of Sunderland.
Being chosen, of course, is not a blessing for everyone. It was quite a shock for Eberhard, after all, when one night ten years later all three of his children came to dinner during a brief stay at Chariot’s Landing, and all three of them with the same news: they’d each been Chosen by a guardian totem in the Ward tree. The Addison house had known only two Chosen previous, a pair of twins who’d allegedly died slaying the only Wolves they ever fought. On the other hand, the Fairfax family had always honored its Chosen and declared them obligated to become Wardens in turn, and tales of them were passed from father to son throughout time. And yet for all three of Eberhard’s children to be Wardens meant they were each now burdened by responsibilities in addition to their duties as heir (or marriageable daughter, in Cecelia’s case). They adapted, though: Septimus could easily become a Warden from a major, for he was already accustomed to the idea of fighting for crown and for people. Zachary finally had something to do, although his guardian seemed a frivolous thing completely unfocused on what Eberhard was sure was a war to come. Cecelia? Well, Cecelia was taking it as an opportunity to learn, and the guardian who’d chosen her was a protector. Eberhard could rest easy knowing she would not be hurt.
The two beasts, so sure of their mutual betrayal, confronted one another with bristling animosity. With Hawk's cleverness and Hound's sensible nature, however, their argument did not last long. "We will hold a contest to decide who is the best hunter, and then we will know once and for all." Talk, after all, should always be backed by actions.
And so, both set out to prove their worth on a day their master had set aside for rest. All day long, Hawk and Hound made absolute fools of themselves, much to the delight of Horse and Cat. While Hound attempted to capture quail in the field, bounding this way and that, Hawk nearly skewered himself going after rabbits in the wood. Hound found it most impossible to spot the little birds in the field, while the wild pigs merely laughed as hawk tried to corner them. Try as they might, neither could quite cover the other's strengths. They would have gone on all night if Hound had not caught the sound of the raucous laughter of their true foes, for their disagreement had weighed heavily upon his noble heart from the very beginning.
Several months later, though, Patrick Addison returned to the family dinners, a large, healthy yearling in tow. Berenice, Patrick claimed, was proof that the spirits had wanted Patrick to inherit so many years ago, despite his b*****d status. For he was a son of Marcus Addison, and he was even older than Alinne Addison had been, and so, he argued, he should have stood to inherit all the family’s holdings. He looked at the empty space behind Eberhard and smiled.
Wardens, see, would probably be politically powerful figures in the war to come - for Queen Anne had declared war. War, after all, upsets any economy, and the training and deployment of Wardens would be vital to any fight against the Wolves. Someone with knowledge and expertise of Wardens’ needs would certainly be able to make waves in other areas, too, if only due to the connections between the various political arenas: an army needed to be fed and clothed, and it needed land, and the necessity of trading favors when it came to matters involving Wardens could be used to a member of parliament’s advantage with an unrelated issue. And, furthermore: before they were Wardens, they were Chosen. Patrick was chosen, and Eberhard was not.
And the squabble over inheritance began anew. The family’s cousins, no matter how distant, took sides: the socially and economically savvy Patrick who had at heart Addison blood and the dutiful, passionate Eberhard with his appreciation for tradition and family loyalty both drew supporters of different sorts.
Of course, Eberhard was aware all the while of his inability to be potentially chosen. He knew about the hedgemagic within himself, after all: the ability to ease illnesses, and put out small fires with the wave of his palm, though he’d kept both abilities a secret. And yet he was aware that to be Chosen was to have sway. So with his eldest son, he hatched a plan - something that, unfortunately, would not actually make the conflict any easier.
Clearly, the House of Addison has of recent events been thrown into tumult, at a time when its members should be uniting against the threat of the Wolves. Perhaps it’s the lack of activity from the unseelie spirits that has the family so up in arms...or perhaps it’s simply that, like for so many of Sunderland’s citizens, the dangers of the Wolves are now mere figments of the imagination for the Addisons.
"My friend, we have been played for fools!" He cried, and with one last burst of strength, set upon both steed and feline. Hawk, realizing what had happened, took flight at once, and together they dispatched their lying comrades, leaving both thoroughly cowed, and with a few good scratches for their trouble.
"I should never have doubted you for a moment." Hawk admitted mournfully, wishing he had spoken more openly to his friend, for it was no lie that Hound's courage had always impressed him. "Nor I you. We have both fallen prey to a vicious trick, but never again!" Declared Hound, and it would be so forever after. Though they had been fooled that day, through their experience their bond and trust had been forged even stronger, never again to be undermined by jealous rumors.
Posted: Wed Dec 25, 2013 3:48 am
THE DUCHY OF SACHEVERELL and the House of Kells
Prominent figures THE KELLS FAMILY Eric Kells: Earl of Sanders, 65. A strict man, very religious. Melisende Kells: deceased, wife to Eric, sister of Simon. Eustace Kells: 38. The heir. Very good with numbers, very good looking. Elric Kells: 37. Priest, joined an Naturism religious sect. Disowned.
THE SACHEVERELL FAMILY Elsa Sacheverell: 75. Loves to tell stories, especially about Guardians and Warden. Dane's mother. Dane Sacheverell: Duke of Sacheverell, 57. A workaholic, but a gentle man. Devoted to family. Adeline Sacheverell: 48. Flighty, but well-meaning. An insatiable flirt. Wife of Dane. Sir Edmond Kells: 34. Knight. Fostered into the duchy. Engaged to Catrain and will be heir to the Sacheverell duchy.
JURIAN SACHEVERELL Character of: The Semblance of Unity Chosen by: Lord, #2 Description: 17, Although exceptionally bright, Jurian adopts a rather negative doom and gloom outlook. She likes sleeping in late, learning languages, and practicing charming young suitors. While she does not wish to become a knight or a man, she holds an odd kind of resentment towards Edmond, as he will become heir to the dukedom and she will not and can not. But, perhaps if she conquers her apathy, she can accomplish great things.
MADELINE SACHEVERELL Character of: Cynnybun Chosen by: Sovereign, #3 Description: 13, By far the most soft-spoken and sensitive of the three sisters, Madeline is a gentle soul. She has suffered from a moderate stutter since she was very little, but unfortunately there didn't seem to be an obvious cause. As such, she much prefers to remain quiet, though she is easily startled and amused. She is very close with her eldest sister, Catrain, and likes to spend a lot of time with her. While she is perhaps not as close with Jurian, due to their often-conflicting natures, she does love her middle sister dearly. Madeline is unsure how to feel about Edmond. She likes him well enough as a person, but she has begun to notice a change in Catrain's demeanor when he is around. He is also an outsider, despite how much her parents embrace him.
CATRAIN SACHEVERELL Character of: Subobo Chosen by: Dame, #4 Description: 21, Catrain can come off as a serious young woman at first, as the eldest she takes the responsibilities placed on her to heart. However, her youth is still apparent in less formal situations, especially around her siblings. She is not above joking with (or at) her sisters, though she is usually the first to become serious should the situation call for it. Much of her cheerful and optimistic childhood demeanor can still be seen in her actions and words, though as of late she has taken the slight turn towards introversion, especially around Edmond.
About the family
"Watch out for the Kells family, Juri." Her voice was old and it cracked like aged leather too far gone to the elements. Jurian looked up from her book, obediently setting it aside. It was a set of political fairy tales, written in Valarian. Her mind adjusted slowly, returning to the common tongue. Not often did people find time to listen to Grandma Elsa: the paranoia of decades fell from her lips and her mind shook as much as her hands.
"You know," Elsa began, her voice whispering out like a forgotten campfire gone to smoke. "It all began with money. They invested all of the Kells money in a few mines, the fools. A last-ditch effort to make the family moneyed and not just titled - it failed. The mines collapsed." Grandma Elsa continued to speak, her eyes growing bright and her words tremulous but strong. "They came to us!" she crowed. "And we paid for them, do pay for them. We have the money from our dyes, ever more money Ah, but..... They do not like the shadow of their own debt... turned to the Sacheverells." Jurian listened not because this was a new story; it was not. Elsa had told this tale more times than she had years of life left in her. So Jurian listened out of respect, but only with half an ear. No one took Elsa truly seriously. As if sensing this, the old woman took Jurian's shoulders firmly, leaning close. She smelled like age and pale, withering roses.
"Beware of them, Juri. They want, want what you have and what you were born with. The only one close to trust is the knight. He will be our heir." Her voice soured slightly. "Adeline had only girls.... Jurian. Promise me you will be careful of their envious gazes!" Quickly, the girl nodded, disturbed by Elsa's strength and the strange light behind her eyes. Perhaps the old woman had truly gone mad. Even before the words of 'I promise' had left her lips,Grandma Elsa was back to her habitual, her blissful tuneless humming. It was hard to care, Jurian decided. So she did not, and sank further into the pillows. Her hand stole in the tiny pouch around neck, touching the smooth totem of a deer. Jurian picked up her book.
Misc The Sacheverell household has 4 main estates. Sacheverell Castle - directly east of Palisade, located on the edge of Langford, a textiles and dye hub Oakenshaft House - (where the Kells reside) - in Langford proper Westmoreland Place - just northwest of Oldcastle, this place is Lorence's main residence, though often he travels with the family. Home to an extensive collection of hunting dogs and a large stables. Sacheverell Manor - a large house with a small garden in Palisade, used by the family when attending to court
Huntingdon Lake -a part of Westmoreland place, one side is open to fishing as long as fishers pay an annual fee Langford - a bustling town nestled near the Wardwood, it specializes in making brilliant dyes. A secondary export is weaving.
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DIGGORY REINE 
