The Harbor [Post here first]

by **Mirage** on November 19th, 2012, 2:42 pm

The Overseer reviewed its database of responses, piecing together something appropriate for the explanation it had been given, "Rayage and his servant have been registered as companions, but no records are found of a third. State your trade and reasons for coming to Sahova."

by **Ignotus Everto** on November 19th, 2012, 3:06 pm

So he wasn't being murdered. This was good. He'd have to find Wrenmae and drag him in front of this bipedal nutter later on, but it seemed like he would survive until then. "I am a wizard of many disciplines, Reimancy in particular. I've come to Sahova in order to learn more, and to assist its denizens where I can."

by **Zariel** on December 3rd, 2012, 6:31 pm

5th of Winter, 512 AV

The golem stood (If what it was doing could be considered standing) on the pier, staring (again, if what it was doing could be considered staring) at the boat tethered to the wooden dock. The sailors started bringing cargo up from the underbelly of the ship while the captain spoke with the metal thing, stating his name, purpose of visit, and amount of cargo. Other golems came and moved the cargo to warehouses, inspecting them along the way, or whatever it was that happened with cargo in Sahova. Quite frankly, Zariel did not care in the least. He was not here to learn the workings of the Sahovan trade system. He was here to gain entry into the citadel and, ultimately, to become a Nuit and contribute to the citadels prestigious knowledge in some way or another.

"Welcome to Sahova," it spoke in a slow, droning voice that smelled of metal and gears, "Identify yourself and state the purpose of your visit. If you are carrying cargo, provide a full description and unload a sample for evaluation. Any passengers wishing to be escorted to the Citadel must approach me and apply for permission."

The smell made Zariel cringe, but he ignored it. He tried to answer with as little feeling as possible, although he was almost in a state of elation. He had made it this far. He had almost reached his goals! "Zariel Banmein. I am here to seek apprenticeship. I am knowledgeable in Hypnotism and Auristics..." After a pause, he asked the golem a question. "How do the Masters feel about Leeching? I've heard it was quite the interesting field... Does anyone practice it, here? In Sahova?"

by **Mienskil Ostovik** on December 21st, 2012, 4:38 pm

11th of Winter, 512 AV

Stepping off the gangway, a short and skinny young man looked across the docks and onto the rocky island, the large mountain in the center rising up into the sky. It was similar to the way he'd heard it described, a daunting tower of stone watching the harbor, which was completely empty except for the Saga Shooter. A single lone boat from Zeltiva moored on one of the only three piers.

The sailors called this particular harbor Port Silence, and for good reason. The docks were completely deserted save for the crew and only one passenger. Not a word was spoken, the uneasy atmosphere unnerving everyone into silence, the only sounds being those of footsteps. It was a stark contrast to the port of Zeltiva, where the docks were so crowded and busy that people were fighting for space. Bustling noise was the primary characteristic that identified Zaltiva's port, and the young man found the change in presence interesting if a little unsettling. The sailors found it even more so, having grown experienced and used to all the noise and smells of the ports up and down the coast.

While the crew began unloading their cargo, which carried the reek of death about it to the point where it could be nothing other than corpses, the young man stepped forward towards the way deeper inland. He was a scholar, of a kind at least, and he was here with a very specific purpose in mind. Approaching him was what looked like a pillar on wheels, axles creaking and groaning as it carried the bust and rudimentary body shape towards the Saga Shooter. Upon drawing near, it addressed every one as whole, its metallic and rusty voice giving instructions for them to follow.

Upon the routine's completion, the young scholar stepped forward and stood before the animated greeter. "Mienskil Ostovik," he said. "Proficient in auristics and magecrafting, looking to study and contribute. Requesting permission to enter the citadel."

by **Cara** on December 23rd, 2012, 2:28 am

Timestamp: Winter 5, 512 AV

She had no where else to go, considering how she wasn't likely to be welcomed home. After the murder of her mother, the destruction of statues, and her general clash with the lesser of her kind, Cara knew Avanthal was no place for her. And to travel so far to see her father after words were spoken on a whim, only to find the city of Denval had exploded in the freak storm of two season's past, the Vantha found many doors closing with very few others ever opening. She supposed then that she had chosen to leave both regions behind, but never her animal companions so that she may start again. Somewhere to the far reaches of where she had once been. So, to Sylira she travelled, and on a lark she had taken to ship, so that she may reach the Island known simply for Sahova; said to hold many secrets, specifically those pertaining to magic.

And she loved magic. For magic meant strength, and power.

So idly she sat, patting the top of Iaera's head, while she scratched between Rascal's ears, as her dark violet eyes watched the shadow of the Island draw closer and closer. Then the dark brown of the wooden docks, and within mere chimes it seemed, the boat was being tied to the thing and she was being helped out. The folds of her simple purple dress rippling about her ankles as her heels clicked against the wood, and she was met by the Communicator gollum. "Welcome to Sahova," it said in a slow, repetitive voice that smelled of metal and gears, "identify yourself and state the purpose of your visit. If you are carrying cargo, provide a full description and unload a sample for evaluation. Any passengers wishing to be escorted to the Citadel must approach me and apply for permission."

Cara smiled weakly at the strange entity. "I am Cara Frostfawn, and I will be the only one staying on the Island with my companions Iaera the fox, and Rascal the red panda." She paused a moment. "The vessel we used to get here has no cargo for you, and the sailors are to rest but an hour before setting out again." Again she fell silent. "I seek entrance to your city for I wish to see something new, and perhaps, to find out more about the people here, and the magic they are said to possess and know."

After that, she'd fall silent, awaiting her judgment. And well, if it proved unfavorable, the Vantha could always burn the wretched the thing to a crisp. For other than the sailors, who was truly watching?

Who in all the world would know?

OOCSorry this sucks, and if I need to do anything else to make my entrance official, don't hesitate to nudge me.

by **Mirage** on December 23rd, 2012, 4:35 am

Ignotus:

The Overseer remained silent for a few ticks more before finally responding, "Permission has been granted for your entry into Sahova. Continue on to the Vestibule where you shall receive your purpose." With that the golem simply turned and walked away, its duty fulfilled and Ignotus was left to his own devices. He could walk the path to the Vestibule or he could await the carriage which would return in a few bells. If he so chose he could even explore anywhere outside the Citadel, though eventually he would have to go to the Vestibule for admittance into Sahova.

Zariel:

The little Communicator golem beeped a couple of times, "Invalid question. All apprentices are to arrive by carriage to the Vestibule for placement. Permission to enter Sahova granted." And with that the little golem moved on to the next bit of cargo, leaving Zariel to decide what to do.

Just past the warehouses Zariel would find a carriage awaiting him, though it did not have any horses, or indeed any visible means for moving at all. There he would be forced to wait, wait for the carriage to start moving to take him to his next destination.

OOCRead Cara's post as well. You two will be meeting up

Mienskil:

The reply came after a couple of ticks from a strangely metallic voice devoid of any emotion, "Mienskil Ostovik, seeking passage into Sahova." another pause, "Permission granted. Proceed to the Vestibule for placement." Then without another word the golem would move away, turning to inspect the next round of cargo as it was unloaded.

Just passed the warehouses Mienskil would find a horsless carriage awaiting him. When he was seated it would slowly begin moving, taking a slightly inclining path up to the shadowed mouth of Sahova. The journey would be bumpy, and strange noises would be heard from the distant woods and rocky outcroppings. Eventually Mienskil would reach his destination, the Vestibule.

Cara:

The Communicator Golem responded quickly, "Permission to enter Sahova has been granted. A carriage awaits passed the warehouses. Mind the beasts." By "mind the beasts" the golem could either mean Cara's own companions, or perhaps it was referring to the beasts that roamed free on the island itself... Moving passed Cara the golem would continue on with its purpose, ignorant of the pulsers existence from that moment on.

Passed the warehouses Cara would indeed find a horseless carriage that waited her, but along with it she would find a new companion as well. Zariel had arrived before her, and now it seemed they were meant to travel together. Assuming pleasantries went smoothly upon their initial meeting, Zariel and Cara would suddenly begin to move, the carriage taking them up the long path to the entrance of Sahova known as the Vestibule. Along they way strange sounds would echo over the rocky outcroppings and small patches of trees. Ghastly howling and other strange sounds of an inhuman nature. Peacekeepers made their way up and down the path, though it could not be certain whether they were their to keep passengers in line or to keep what was out there from harming those on the path.

OOCCara and Zariel are going to be companions from this moment on. Play nice

Mirage's Notes for Everyone! :

by **Atrax Cerbera** on December 23rd, 2012, 4:39 pm

Timestamp: 1st of Winter, 512 AV
Location: On ship docked in the Sahovan Harbor

It was officially the first day of Winter, but the cold had arrived long before this day. Atrax, who had been bustling with energy and excitement throughout the sailing towards Sahova, fell silent and humble once he was able to see Sahova's harbor, nay, even before so...Once he came closer and closer towards the island. An emotion he had rarely felt, crept up on him...Fear.

It was an inexplicable fear to him, granted he had heard many tales about Sahova, nearly all of them mixed in with warnings not to go there, regardless of his reasons...But he was not one to be afraid of tales alone, nor the unknown. But it was odd...Why was it that he was so afraid? He hadn't even seen any of the horrors that were told to await him.

Was it...Was it because of the doubt within his heart? Was it because he suddenly realized that the tales told to him, were not to be taken lightly? Or was it because a sudden feeling overwhelmed him?

The feeling that he would not leave this island alive?!

No matter what, even through the heartclutching fear he felt, he stood his ground. As the ship that brought him here finished docking, he stood tall, backpack readied over his shoulder. Once the planks were lowered, he hesitated only ever so slightly to move his legs.

" NO! "

Atrax jerked his face around much harder than necessary, the fear he was fighting was just amplified by that one simple word. The word that had been screaming inside of him for a while now.

' NO! Don't go! Death awaits! ' Were the things running through his head before the captain had shouted. On one hand he thanked the captain to remove those thoughts. On the other hand, he had never been so near to run, not ever has felt like this...

" Don't leave this ship until it tells you to...Young Symenestra, on this island, you talk when you're told to talk. You move when you're told to move. On a whim of anyone on this island, you can suffer a faith worse than death. Remember that, and remember your place on this island...You're at their mercy! "

Atrax simply stared boldly at the captain, his fear was fighting for command with his pride. Remember his place? He was the one, the one who would bring Kalinor's denizens to their throne and have them rule Kalinor. But nonetheless, eventhough he feared no longer, he knew the captain's words held truth.

Even if his path would take him to that goal, he had to remember that right now...He was a pup, one of the smallest cogs in the wheels of Mizahar. Even if the gods had chosen him, he had to make it happen...

It was then that he heard a sound coming from the docks...

Prepared for the worst, he turned to face the squeeky noise coming from planks being bent and rusty wheels turning. What he came face to face with was a being he had only heard of in those tales told by warning tongues. The beings that greeted all those who came to Sahova, beings without soul nor heart...Golems!

"Welcome to Sahova"
"identify yourselves and state the purpose of your visit. If you are carrying cargo, provide a full description and unload a sample for evaluation. Any passengers wishing to be escorted to the Citadel must approach me and apply for permission."

Swallowing and clearing his throat before speaking, Atrax replied:

"My name is Atrax Cerbera, I came to learn from the Sahovan Masters. The only cargo I carry on me is clothing, food and my weapons. A snakespear, shortbow and quiver."

Hesitating for a moment before he continued his reply, too loud than necessary. As if he was attempting to reassure himself:

"I'm here to learn, if allowed I wish to be escorted to the Citadel."

Awaiting an answer from the metallic being, he felt his shoulders tense but he made no attempt to hide his tension. He knew it would be obvious regardless.

by **Orinei** on December 29th, 2012, 8:20 pm

1st day of Winter, 512

She was going home.

To some semblance of home, at least, Orinei mused. She wasn't sure how anyone could consider a colony of the undead a home--even if she was one of them. In truth, she had no home: she had felt at home in Sahova, until she'd had to flee to save her own skin (the one she was inhabiting then, at least). She shook her head to clear it of the thoughts creeping up on her. She wasn't truly emotional about that part of her life, unless she let the thoughts linger too long. She closed her eyes, letting the salt spray hit her milk-pale face, letting the icy wet wind whip her hair against her cheeks, dampening the cloak she wore. She didn't need the cloak, she supposed, but it had helped her fit in among the living more than once, with the hood drawn up.

In an attempt to quell her nervousness, she reminded her self that she'd fit right in--she was lacking a pulse, after all. Stupid, she told herself. You'll fit in anywhere you want to, because you already know you're better than most of them. Though she was coming to Sahova seeking some sort of apprenticeship--she'd narrowed it down to Embalming, or perhaps Animation--her years of travelling alone, practicing and studying, gave her what she thought was an invaluable advantage. Though she would sneer in the face of anyone who dared to cross her, her pride was a quiet sort; she'd never flaunt it too extremely, preferring to simply know her superiority rather than show it.

As the boat lurched toward the docks and she set eyes on the shape of the Citadel, she was reminded of the fact that she hadn't seen Sahova in 60 years. She'd spent the entire voyage from Mura below-decks, knowing that the mist and salt air would do no favors for her skin; she liked this body, and she wanted to keep it as long as possible. She wondered if the city had changed at all. Probably not, she thought, and had to stifle a smile; the undead were rather stagnant in their ways, aside from their research. Funny, though, that she'd been away from this place for nearly half her life--perhaps even a human life in its entirety--yet she felt as if she'd been gone for only moments. It does feel like home already, she decided as the ship's crew (pulsers, all, she thought with disdain--they had mocked and ostracized her presence throughout the voyage). In response, she had said nothing, merely choosing to frighten them a little--she would linger and stare at them during mealtimes, "accidentally" brushing their arms with her cold, white fingers when reaching for things. She enjoyed the fleeting looks of fear they gave her in these moments, knowing that however much they jeered at her to each other, they were all frightened of her. As if they'd never met a Nuit before, she thought. Strange, for a crew who made it seem like a voyage to Sahova would be a walk in the park.

Once the boat was docked, Orinei collected the few belongings she had, and followed the crew off towards the waiting golems. The crew was toting chests of one material or another, hopefully to be used by Sahova's wizards in their experiments. Other, longer boxes held bodies for inhabitation. Orinei had seen them all, but she was picky, and didn't like any of them--not as if she needed a new body, as of yet, but she was always looking. Not five steps away from the boat, she was approached by one of the little golems. Orinei smiled--she could never resist interest in an Animated object, no matter how inconsequential. It wheeled up to her, and said:

"Welcome to Sahova. Identify yourselves and state the purpose of your visit. If you are carrying cargo, provide a full description and unload a sample for evaluation. Any passengers wishing to be escorted to the Citadel must approach me and apply for permission."

The ship's captain answered for his cargo, and Orinei waited her turn. When the golem turned to her, she spoke proudly, without hesitation, but quietly.

"I am Orinei Achora, and I have come home. I fled Sahova years ago, but have returned to restart my studies of Embalming, or perhaps learn to Animate." She paused: it was not like her to grovel or ask favors, but she supposed a little wheedling wouldn't go amiss here. She had to be re-accepted here, after all. So, she continued. "If any wizard will have me, that is." It sounded grudging, but the fact that she'd said it at all would impress anyone who knew her. She bowed her head briefly, and waited for the golem's response.

OOC :

by **Mirage** on December 29th, 2012, 9:55 pm

Atrax:

The golem would take a few ticks to answer as it searched its data base of answers. After picking out the appropriate combination it said in a small metalic voice, "Atrax Cerbera, permission has been given for entry into the Citadel. Take the carriage past the Warehouses to the Vestibule for assignment."

Without so much as another word the golem would continue on its way. Past the Warehouses Atrax would find a horseless carriage worn down with age. Once he stepped inside he would be made to wait for a chime or two while another passenger boarded, and when all were on board it would begin rolling forward on its own.

OOCYou will be traveling in the same carriage as Orinei. You two can either interact in your next post in the Vestibule, or make a separate thread to talk about their conversations. Either way is fine with me

. No matter what though I need 2 separate posts in the Vestibule. How you two choose to interact is up to you

Orinei:

The golem would have a similar answer for the nuit, saying breifly, "Orinei Achora, permission has been given for entry into the Citadel. Take the carriage past the Warehouses to the Vestibule for assignment." before it rolled off once more.

In the carriage past the warehouses Orinei would find a lone Symenestra waiting patiently for the carriage to begin moving, and only when she climbed in and closed the door would it begin to move. Up the long path to the Citadel which stretched for several miles, the creaking of the wheels was not the only sound that could be heard. Strange noises, distant calls and grows echoed over the rocky outcroppings and sparse few patches of trees. Peacekeeper Golems rolled up and down the long path, though it could not be certain if they were their to keep passengers in line, or to keep whatever was out there from crossing the road.

OOCSame thing that I said for Atrax. You two are riding together, if you choose to interact or ignore one another it is up to you

by **Mirage** on December 30th, 2012, 10:24 am

Please see the beginning of this thread for the edit made to the Harbor Location. This note is for everyone who posts after this point in the Harbor.