Homecoming of Morwen 513

by **Valkyrie** on March 12th, 2013, 4:07 pm

Spring 1, 513 – Mid Morning

The city of Avanthal bustled as citizens participated in preparing for Morwen’s return. The Homecoming of Morwen was a special day celebrated by all. It marked when the weather would return to its usual frigidity and the sea ice would once again be safe for hunters to venture out on. Winterflame had delicious and enticing scents wafting out of its kitchens since long before dawn while shopkeepers had opened small, temporary booths near Morwen’s palace to sell their wares to festivalgoers. Icewatch had been busy securing the city and ensuring all was ready for Morwen’s annual speech to the city. Iceglaze had constructed a small platform immediately in front of the gates to Morwen’s palace for the goddess to stand on so that all citizens would have a clear view of her.

Throughout the morning citizens had begun to gather around the platform, eagerly awaiting the return of Morwen. The winter had been a tough season on the city, emotions had run high and many youths had taken their frustrations out in criminal activity. Thankfully the elders’ intervention had helped to dissuade many from their choices and the city held it’s breath to see if Morwen would punish them or commend them for their efforts.

Snowsong musicians stood behind the platform and on a signal from an Icewatch guard they raised their instruments high and began to play a rousing melody of greeting and joy. A roar arose from the crowd of citizens and those who had not gathered around the platform hurried to do so. The doors of the palace opened and Morwen appeared surrounded by several Icewatch guards. Morwen could certainly take care of herself but she allowed the guards the honor of escorting her to greet her people. Morwen and the guards began a slow walk from the palace doors down to the gates which opened as she neared. The goddess ascended several steps and stood gracefully atop the platform, gazing across the crowd of her subjects.

Morwen stood elegantly and gracefully, a small smile on her lips. Her gown was a beautiful creation that at first glance appeared white but when it moved it shone with all the colors of the aurora. Her long, white hair cascaded down her back and she raised a hand to quiet the crowd. She lowered her hand and took a moment to smile at her citizens before she began to address them.

“I have been gone a full season and returned to find my city a different place then when I left. I have heard that while I was gone many of you chose to commit crimes against your fellow citizens and two upstanding Hold Leaders have been murdered. But I have also heard while I was gone that the older citizens of this fair city took matters into their own hands and watched over this city with all the wisdom and grace of their many years.

“Citizens, I implore you to not lose faith in each other. There will always be difficult times that we must work through, but you must put faith in the goodness of each other and work to pull through with strength and unity. The elders are wise and good, do not doubt their advice or instruction. The years that they have seen have shown them truths that younger citizens have not discovered yet. Put your trust in them and they will guide you. The wise elders are the true keepers of this city and I thank them for their contributions to our society.

“We must find a way to move past the events of winter and become a stronger community. Those who have been accused of crimes must face judgment, but will be treated with fairness and understanding. I proclaim that this city shall build a beautiful structure to house an assembly of my creation. This assembly shall be made up of elders and Hold leaders who shall hear the grievances and proposals of all persons within the city. In event of accusations of crime, Icewatch shall be the investigating body that presents their evidence to the assembly. The assembly shall meet every fifth day and any case brought before them that they cannot agree upon shall be submitted to me for my personal decision.

“Since we will need a full cohort of Hold leaders it is time that I choose successors for Kayin Frostfawn and Gensen Iceglaze. Tovan Frostfawn is a kind and intelligent man who does not rush his words. He shall make a wise and thoughtful leader for the Frostfawns. Jecore Iceglaze has long been known as a personable and charismatic man who lead the Iceglaze with wit and empathy.SnowsongSnowsong’s leader will not be announced until Layota’s guilt has been determined IC.

“I hope the creation of this assembly shall prevents tensions and crimes like what occurred this winter from going unaddressed and that the unity of this assembly shall reflect the unity of the city’s people. I greet you warmly Avanthal, and I am glad to be returned.” At the end of Morwen’s speech she bowed as applause and roars of approval ripped through the crowd. The beloved goddess stepped to the back of the platform and Icewatch began to slowly form citizens into a line so that they may approach and greet their goddess in an orderly fashion.

OOC Instructions :

by **Miria** on March 13th, 2013, 9:17 am

Stepping forth Miria held no reservations of as she finally got a clear view of Morwen. Though Morwen may be the goddess of Winter and ice Miria only felt warmth in her heart as she merely stared for a few seconds. The huntress hoped that her goddess understood why she did not bother to welcome her home or the like. It was already etched on Miria's face how absolutely thrilled she was to see Mother Morwen. Though Miria had to share something.

"You know. Even though you were gone there were some days that felt colder knowing you weren't with us."

Nodding her head dutifully Miria was not deterred by the tear that accompanied her smile as she looked back up. "Though some despairing events might have shaken my resolve seeing you does me well in dealing with my lost. Her majesty and her city are what is most important." Even if some of us may fall to the wayside. It was hard to dismiss the other significant things Miria might have held dear.

Miria wanted nothing more then to see his friend's face again but she where would she look? Laforte was miles away in any which direction, the archer would not know where to start. For all she knew he could have died already, the life of a slave not well suited for the Vantha. However it was the thought of him being alive somewhere which tugged at Miria the most.

Miria swallowed hard trying desperately holding on to her new resolutions as she listened to what Morwen had to say. It was cold, it felt as if she were little more than a chilled husk abandoning all notions of loyalty to everyone besides Morwen. Gritting her teeth Miria's face grew a dark green missing some parts of what the other had to say before looking back at Morwen's face. Finally a serene yellow replaced the anxious hue resolving once and for all what her priorities were.

"I love you first and foremost Mother Morwen. I just wanted to let you and perhaps myself know."

by **Kalimalka** on March 21st, 2013, 8:33 am

Climbing the stairs to Queen Morwens dais, the Kelvic hound does an odd thing; she mounts the steps sideways, placing both feet onto one step before moving to the next. Her pale blue eyes are kept firmly at her feet as if she is navigating an obstacle she has never encountered before. And when approaching the goddess those eyes still don't meet hers but trail up the train of her beautiful dress, fixing her gaze somewhere over her left shoulder with an exaggerated turn of her head. She has a strange, attentive air about her even when it looks like she is pointedly ignoring the Goddess standing not two feet away. She does not bow.

Not approaching your sovereign properly is a deadly form of insolence. And not meeting someones eye is seen as evasive or cowardly. But Kali is not operating under human conception, but that of an animals. Approaching not head-on but from the side is submissive, showing through the language of her body her understanding of the Goddesses authority. And not meeting her in the eye is a high form of respect that animals rarely show for each other. In her own way, she is showing every ounce of admiration she can.

Kali would be embarrassed to display such animalistic elements of herself in such as way. For it only reminds people that she is not as human as she looks. But while Morwen takes the form of a human (as beautiful, ethereal and surreal a human as she may look) she gives off a powerful aura of something much wilder. Behind a courtly presence Kali gets the impression of a strange, untamed nature she knows nothing about. It draws out the mirroring of her own dual nature and she finds she is unabashed to let it show.

"My Goddess", she begins shakily, still staring past her shoulder with a steely determination. The lights of her dress are reflecting in her eyes, making them seem to change colour like the Vantha. "I can't welcome you home because this is not my home to welcome you too. My name is Kalimalka, and I've lived on the border of your city all of my life." Her voice gets stronger with every word, taking comfort in the presence of her Goddess. "You are my goddess but I am not your people, and I... and I wish to change that." She swallows around a sudden lump in her throat, pressing herself to continue. "Please, give me your blessing. I want to live here and serve you and the community. I wish for your approval, and I will work hard and earn the kindness your people have shown me."

by **Svasra** on March 23rd, 2013, 6:51 pm

It was time for their Goddess to come home. Gnosis practically tingled as Morwen edged ever closer to her city, her Avanthal, her Vanthas. Despite the treachery that's been tearing them apart, the people of Avanthal stood united today. Side by side they crowded around a familiar platform with the backdrop of Morwen's castle. Svasra was a small point within the masses, just one of the many that came to greet the return of their beloved Queen. Close to the front, the young storyteller had no plans to wait all day to offer her prayers as she did last year, the punishment for sleeping in. Minara and Havok were somewhere also, holds intertwined as to not lose each other, each expectant and eager.

A sign from some Icewatch guards had Snowsong musicians raise their instruments. Music and song poured forth, containing the absolutely radiant loyalty and joy the Vantha had for their queen, wrapping the crowd in a music that would do justice for her entrance. Perhaps it was the prospect of greeting Morwen that made the music so entrancing, but Svasra felt the hearts and souls of the players twine in her ears as the power of Snowsong rushed through the crowd. With all that has been happening, Svasra wondered how many people forgot the blind beauty of Snowsong's music.

Morwen exited the castle moments later, striding with the grace and regalia of a true Goddess. Her expression was kind, accepting, and welcomed. White hair cascaded in a clear river down her back, complimented by the twisting colors of her dress that glittered the colors of her Lights. She was a true representation of Avanthal and its people. Even Svasra had a hard time looking away from the absolute elegance Morwen wrapped herself in. Their cheers fell silent with a simple movement of her hand, and Morwen smiled. Then, she spoke.

She didn't yell at them for the foolishness of some actions, didn't demand the murderers and hooligans step forward, and didn't chide them for their disunity. Instead, Morwen, their Goddess and Queen, provided a new assembly of justice-bringers. She implored her people to stay strong, and support each other, while placing trust in their beloved Elders. She only made the love for her grow, with her understanding smile and passive nature. How could anyone think Winter was a curse when such a gentle Goddess brought its winds?

"I am glad to be returned," Morwen finished, and Svasra yelled just as loud as the others in approval. She moved with the guidance of the Icewatch into a line with the others, eyes shifting colors as she awaited to approach the Goddess. This year, unlike the others, Svasra had something to request. She didn't just bring her prayers and love to present. She could only hope Morwen would agree.

A few people went before her, and Svasra waited until they were finished, approaching the Goddess slowly. "Queen Morwen," Svasra said, her voice filled with the respect and awe she held for their winter woman. She curtsied low. How many times had she greeted their Goddess when she came home? Her parents took her to her first one when she first born, requesting her gnosis mark at the greeting. After that, she attended every one of them. This would mark the first time she didn't approach with her parents, though.

"Welcome home, I know I have missed your wisdom and words, and even more so since Miss Layota was accused of the murders of the Hold." Svasra's eyes flicked away with a flash of sorrow, not only for the death of such acclaimed citizens, but the simple retching apart the actions had done to Avanthal. "I never thought the Holds would fall into such a disunited state, suspicious and angry. I pray with your return and the assembly and the ever moving patience and wisdom of our elders we will once again feel close." Svasra paused for a moment and smiled up at her Goddess, simple admiration and faithful love glowing within her green gaze. "I have a small request to make, Goddess Morwen. For Spring is upon us, and the change of seasons have presented a new path and opportunity for me. I am leaving Avanthal, and soon, though I believe I will return after I have experienced the rest of the world. I only ask for a brief meeting with you before I leave, for I have a present I wish to offer." Tilting her head, Svasra added, "My friend, Jesslyn, has asked to accompany me. She has not yet met you, though I am sure you know of her as you know us all. I would be thrilled to tell her if she could come with me, if you will agree to my askance of your audience this third of Spring."

by **Soren Frostfawn** on March 25th, 2013, 11:06 am

Of course Soren was there to see Morwen's arrival. He respected the Goddess who gave the Vantha their home and protected them. He stood outside the palace waiting for the queen of winter eagerly. The Vantha always were a people who loved a good celebration but the homecoming of Morwen was one of the greatest celebrations the Vantha participated in all year.

Soren was happy Morwen had come home once more because the people would be overjoyed and because of the events that transpired over the past season, someone should pay for the murders that had befallen his people. His eyes turned a brilliant violet as he thought about the murders, Kayin Frostfawn's in particular. Kayin was an admirable man and a rolemodel to all young Vantha men, for Soren he was someone that Soren aspired to be like though he had never met the man he had heard of his exploits, his skills with the kelvic and animals, and his kind and nurturing personality. He was a great leader for the Frostfawns.

Music suddenly sounded from some of the Icewatch. This of course signaled the arrival of Morwen, and indeed the queen of Avanthal approached the platform. She was ,as he had heard so many times, as lovely and beautiful as the city of Avanthal itself. Her hair was long and pure white and flowed down her back, her features were not pale but a snow white as well like her skin. She walked with an elegance not seen by the young Frostfawn ever in his life by anyone else and she seemed to be surrounded with the auroras light around her body, though Soren soon realized this was part of her dress as she came nearer the center of the platform.

Morwen spoke of the events of Winter, and it seemed Soren's thirst for justice would be satisfied by the Icewatch and Morwen investigating the murders. He wondered how this Tovan would lead the Frostfawns though he trusted Morwen's decision. Again Soren never met the man and perhaps never would as was the case with Kayin. Soren shouted his approval and joy for the goddess with the others as she finished up her speech. Soren always came to these events every year to great his goddess. This year was no different from the last. He had nothing to ask of the queen but to only receive a blessing on a few things. "My queen, you have been dearly missed by your people and your return brings great joy to myself and to my fellow Vantha. This has been a hard Winter, especially with the loss of Kayin though I trust in your wisdom and ability to lead us in this devestated time. I ask only that you bless my hunting, give me the drive to learn new things and skills, and bless me to help whenever I am needed and have the opportunity to help my people in a capacity that I have never done before."

by **Sera** on March 28th, 2013, 4:08 am

Morwen, their goddess, stood before the people of Avanthal. Her beauty. Her strength. Even her cold gave Sera a warmth in her heart. The girl stood near her family, trying her best to be as respectful as possible. As Morwen spoke, she reflected on the previous season. True, it had been tough, relations between the holds had drawn thin. Life had been rather hectic and troublesome. But, when it came down to it, the Vantha people were true to their values, their ideals, and most of all: True To Their Goddess.

Before she knew it, Morwen had stepped down and back. The people around Sera began to form a line, some definitely wanting to talk with Morwen. Sera looked to her parents, gave them a small nod and then moved forward. For once, she had a serious question to ask.

And so she waited patiently, yet nervously for her moment to speak with her Goddess. So many thoughts flew through her mind. Before she knew it, it was her turn. Sera took a deep breath, and then moved forward.

Once she got close, her eyes moistened. Morwen sat in front of her, as regal as possible. Sera smiled, a small, simple, yet very emotional smile. "My Goddess, Morwen..." She breathed and nodded her head low in a respectful manner. "Oh, how I've missed you, as you've probably heard from everyone today. We... We have all missed you." Sera looked up, her eyes changing colors as she did. "And, I... I..." Sera couldn't believe how much she was stuttering. She swallowed, took another deep breath and then smiled again. "I'm sorry, I don't mean to be so nervous, just so much has happened. But, no matter, Welcome back!"

"I do want to tell you... I'm having so many doubts about everything. Like, what I should do verses what others want me to do. I really feel like I can make a difference, if only I'd be given a well enough chance. I want to make a difference. I want to help people. I... I want to heal people, but it's not how I grew up, being in the Skyglow Hold where my family is." she stopped suddenly, bit her lip and stared at her Goddess, hopeful.

"I hate to be so selfish, but... What should I do? How do make people happy, but do what's best for me?"

by **Yousef** on April 1st, 2013, 3:56 am

The Benshira shifts his weight from one foot to the other as he waited in the back of the long line. A Vantha man had told him that Queen Morwen was waiting for them and he’d promptly dragged Yousef with him to the large crowd. He listened to the goddess talk about the problems that occurred in the city during the past season and he felt sorry for her. Her home went to chaos while she was away. Yousef was too far to read her expression, but her calm voice hinted a bit of sorrow as she spoke. It must be hard, he mused to himself, like a mother who has to witness her children hurt each other.

The cold mid-morning wind blew and Yousef snapped out of his thoughts. He remembered how much he disliked the weather. The breeze nipped at his exposed flesh and sent shivers down his spine. His skin prickled with gooseflesh as he rubbed his gloved hands together. Hassan was beside him then, and gave out an impatient nicker. Yousef rubbed the stallion’s forehead and hushed it, he didn’t want to be kicked out of line because of a misbehaving horse. Although it was odd, why did he stay in line? He wasn’t a Vantha, he was only a foreigner. And he held no particular sentiment for the season of Winter either. He rubbed the back of his nape in silence. I just want to see their Queen, it’s not every day one gets to see a goddess… and it’s rude not to greet her. I am just an outsider after all… His brows furrowed at his thoughts, it feels as if I’m convincing myself.

Yousef exhaled sharply, his eyes scanned the sea of people. To think the Avanthal-folk do this every year… “Kind of reminds you of home doesn’t it Hassan?” he said as he turned his head to his horse and gave it an affectionate rub.

He smiled as he fondly recalled their Mashas, of how warm the gathering is and how boisterous the people can get. Excitement, exhilaration and adrenaline all blur into one small festivity. And it wasn’t exclusive to Benshiras, all races were welcome. Travelers, merchants, foreigners, outsiders and even enemies—as long as they didn’t cause trouble—would be invited to their merry-making and would even be treated as esteemed guests. Gatherings were sacred to them, it was part of their culture, and anybody who wanted to partake in it was welcome to. It was an honor for them to share their tradition to outsiders who were willing to take part. So maybe… His lips curled to a thoughtful smile, the people of Avanthal were no different from the people of Yahebah. Maybe this is why I want to stay… I want to partake in something that is sacred to them. He gazed at the Queen of Frost, her icy charm and delicate features were a wonder. And it would be a great honor to stand before her.

The Benshira shuffled with the crowd, excusing himself as he made his way to the front of the line while Hassan trotted beside him. He was glad his horse didn’t act out like it did earlier this morning, however he kept making impatient grunts and snorts every time someone would bump into him. Yousef sighed warily and scratched Hassan behind the ear, “I’m sorry buddy. Just a little bit more okay?” he whispered to the stallion apologetically.

“He has to wait here you know.” Came a pert female voice in front of him.

“Huh?” Yousef turned his head to see a young woman staring sternly at Hassan. She was small and she looked awfully strained. “Well then? You do want to meet the Queen right?” she continued, raising a perfect eyebrow at him. “O-oh, uh, yes, um sorry.” He stuttered, it seems that he’d reached the front of the line.

Feeling rather flustered, Yousef fumbled with Hassan’s reins for a moment then surrendered them to a nearby Icewatch. Hassan began pawing at the ground and neighed furiously, threatening to kick the Icewatch, Yousef had to rush to its side and reach for its head. “Shhh bud, it’s okay.” Yousef whispered hurriedly and rubbed its neck “I’ll be back okay, stay here and don’t cause any trouble right?” he let the horse settle down first before he bowed apologetically at the Icewatch. “I’m sorry, he’s just nervous.” The man nodded and didn’t say anything. He gave Hassan one final scratch and left its side, the stallion gave out a nicker and twitched its ears. Yousef smiled at his horse.

“So, um, it’s okay to go now right…?” Yousef asked the woman nervously. “Yes, go ahead.” She bobbed her head, her lips curled into a faint smile. “Thank you.” He stepped forward and made his way to Morwen.

Yousef’s heart pounded so furiously in his chest that it felt like it would crash his rib cage, he placed a hand on it hoping to still his heartbeat. Is it getting colder? He wondered as he walked, already his skin prickled and his teeth threatened to chatter. But he willed himself to keep it together. For the Vantha and for Morwen, he didn’t want to seem disrespectful. The Benshira took a deep breath and smiled warmly at the Queen of Ice, his knees started to shake, so he got down on one knee, dropped his arms to the side and bowed deeply before her.

Yousef said “Falim, Queen Morwen.” in a shaky tone. “I feel unworthy of your presence for I am a mere outsider, but I feel honored to be given the chance to meet you.” He looked at her now, taking in her elegance and serene charm. He remembered the hint of sorrow her voice had earlier in her speech and his smile faltered for a moment. “My horse and I have just arrived in Avanthal, we haven’t been here long… so we know nothing of the grave occurrence that your city had undergone. I’m sorry such a thing had to happen to you and your people, but scars will heal in due time, all will turn out for the best…” What was he doing, trying to cheer up a goddess. “I, um, that is, of course you would know that already your Highness… I just wanted you know…” He bit his lip, took a deep breath and continued “You have a beautiful city and hospitable citizens. A traveler could ask for nothing more and I would like to thank you for welcoming me in to your city, just as my people would welcome one of your children. I am very grateful.” He fought the urge to squirm when she met his gaze, her eyes knowing and kindly at the same time, keep it together. “I have but one request Queen Morwen, if it’s not too much. In Yahebah there is a family, whose safety I pray for every day of my life, it's my family. I cannot be with them to keep them safe but I’d like them to be happy even if I’m not there. We have a youngest, her name is Ayesha, she’s going to turn 9 this coming Winter. So my Queen, this I ask of you, to make it snow in Yahebah during the Winter of this year, it is a rarity for us dessert-folk you see. Ayesha would love to see it, your gift.”

by **Silarial** on April 1st, 2013, 4:48 am

The people of Avanthal filed in one, very long line, all of them eager to see their beloved goddess of winter. Everyone wanted to talk to Morwen as soon as possible, most especially Silarial Snowsong. From her place at the furthest back of the crowd, however, she was only able to do so among those last in line. The bells seemed to go on and on for the young woman. She shifted in her place numerous times, but the line didn’t seem to go any shorter for the Vantha.

After what seemed like forever, finally, the person before her finally returned from the back of the platform. At long last, it was her turn to talk with Queen Morwen!

Silarial slowly walked towards the winter goddess, greatly awed by the queen’s wintry beauty and splendor. She bent her body low, lifting her skirts gracefully in a reverent curtsy. It took a lot for the Vantha to sort out the words in her head, for she did not want to blurt out anything that would embarrass herself in front of their Queen Mother. At last, she managed to choke out, “My Queen… my Queen!” This was only the second time that Silarial had seen the goddess of winter face to face, but in her heart she felt like she had been with Morwen since forever. Tears streamed down the dancer’s delicate face, her eyes a cacophony of colors and emotions.

“I’m so glad I’m finally able to see you… Miss Jenna thinks my reason to see you is very petty and silly, so I can’t get an audience before. B-but now… I see you! I see you… I’m so happy.” She wiped the tears from her cheeks and smiled through her sobs.

“Ahh!! I’m not supposed to cry, but I am! This is so embarrassing...” she slapped her cheeks lightly and breathed air out in slow bursts to calm herself down. After a few heartbeats, Silarial found her voice again, and with it the confidence to speak to her beloved goddess. “I... will leave Avanthal by the end of Spring.” She began, drawling the words out as she thought of what to say next. “...I am going to search for my father. I want to know the truth behind my heritage, because all these years I’ve felt that there is a missing part here in my heart that can never be filled out unless I get the answers I have long desired. That is why,” Silarial looked into Morwen’s eyes resolutely, swallowing the lump that had formed at the back of her throat.

“That is why I want to ask for your blessing, my Queen. I feel that I cannot leave my home without both of my mothers’ consent. Yours and my mother Areeyah.” Silarial smiled meekly, her face still holding traces of earlier tears. She tucked shorter strands of her hair behind her ear as she kept her gaze to her fidgety feet. Silarial was trying her best to stop herself from throwing herself at Morwen and hugging the winter goddess.