[Southern Boarder Post] Strength And Passion

by **Kavala** on October 20th, 2013, 8:57 pm

Timestamp: 69th of Spring, 513 AV.
Continued From: The Maiden Voyage Of The Dreamcatcher

They'd left their ship tied up to a small dock on the coast of Kalea. This was Kavala's first trip to the Southern Boarder Post. Once they left the Dreamcatcher moored safely, the pair was able to negotiate to hire a wagon to take their trade goods and themselves to the Boarder Post. The post itself was a tower set in the foothills of some of the most picturesque land Kavala had ever seen. She felt almost claustrophobic in the foothills, namely due to the huge mountains to the west that pinned them tightly against the sea. The road leading to the tower left much to be desired, so too were the tough ponies hooked the the cart. But this was not Cyphrus, a land of rolling hills and elegant horses. This was a wilder place, and the healer understood that. Kavala, being Konti and a healer, had enough pull to negotiate them a suite on the second floor of the VIP Offices and a small space to do some trading out of while she was there. Kavala had brought enough trade goods to ensure they would have coin enough to spend while in the presence of the Isur, though her primary purpose was not to trade. She was here to learn.

So, they'd spent the morning converting furs, fruit, and healing glyphs to coin enough to spend and were wandering around shopping. Kavala was delighted. The Isur looked her in the eye, which was vastly different than being the only one small surrounded by a sea of mountainous Akalaks. In fact, Riaris stood out due to his size, moving through the crowd and gently parting the sea of people in the Courtyard as the Konti moved about speaking to all. One thing she noticed was that many of the children and even adults had cat sized flying lizards with them. The creatures were well trained and looked to be companions to the folks that carried them affectionately. And to that end, Kavala had immediately found an animal dealer and had bargained for four young ones, barely hatched, two blues and two brown and red. Kavala got a male and female of each and had arranged for the Brynkil to be picked up along with enough food and supplies to care for them on the way back to The Sanctuary. She thought the creatures would be a good fit for Tasival as a companion and perhaps some of the other Sanctuary staff - maybe even one of Riaris' kin.

The animal dealer had other lizards, things Kavala was fascinated with. She talked at length with the animal man, learning all she could about the two species of new creatures... diets, habits, and how the Drakori were all but extinct in the wild. And although she was not Isur and could not bond with them, not without something that could change her aura and fool them into thinking she was, Kavala still arranged for a purchase of a pair of them as well. The Drakori would be superior guard animals for The Within in regards to Sanctuary's underground. And though the food was unique, the healer was confident with her skills she could kept them well fed without too much difficulty on moss mushrooms and meat. Kavala just had to figure out a way to work with them on down the line so maybe she could get them to bond.

Riaris was patient through all this exploration and she made sure she took a tremendous time in the Courtyard letting him browse the weapons booths and look at all the Isurian items for sale. Watching her warrior walk among the Isur made her feel proud. He stood out and was courteous and engaging to the folks whom either stopped them or they stopped to ask questions too. Kavala had a shopping list as well beyond the animals, but they had all afternoon to explore. Later, in that evening, they had an appointment with the Anvil. Kavala wanted to talk to him about the Djed Storm and offer her perspective and discuss Izurdin with the priest. The appointment had not been hard to make, but she was still nervous speaking to him. Until then, her and Riaris had shopping and exploring to do, and perhaps a meal to chase down at At The Edge.

by **Riaris Dovukalis** on October 26th, 2013, 10:10 pm

The journey had been pleasant and the company enjoyable. It had been a long way to reach their destination, but Riaris had really enjoyed his time with Kavala. He had also learned that she was carrying his child, and that in itself was a life changing event. They spent a lot of time afterwards talking about their futures together and what they wanted to accomplish in the years to come. Riaris had decided to put off his distant travel plans to stay inside the city and spend more time with his growing family.

There was a very different feeling on the coast of Kalea, and Riaris was ready to get off and stretch his legs. The bulky Akalak was more than ready to walk the length to the Boarder Post, but a wagon was needed to bring their supplies and goods along with them. It would have been a healthy workout for him, if he had decided to do it all by hand, but it would have taken a lot longer as well. The lands held their own beauty and he enjoyed taking the time to look at it with Kavala at his side. From time to time, he would hold her closely and gently kiss her while placing a hand on her belly. Kavala had made him very happy with the news and he was proud to be the father.

Riaris wasn't a merchant of any sorts and personally didn't get involved with trading, but Kavala was delighted in everything there and he would watch her handle the business and help where he could. Lift this, move that, it was completely fine with him and besides he didn't want her doing anything to strain herself. The Isur were little people, none of the one's he met stood taller than Kavala or even his sister. He stood much taller than the rest and everyone paid note to the huge purple hulk trailing closely behind the Konti.

He noticed that the people were friendly, and Kavala seemed right at home, speaking and conversing with them as if she'd lived there for a long time. Riaris was as kind as would be expected and nodded a greeting if nothing more. They had strange animals there, and Kavala saw to get a few for her family to keep. The konti had a very loving heart and was always thinking of her family. They were blessed by the Gods to have her, and so was he.

The courtyard was filled with shops and the like, and Riaris spent most of the time standing by while Kavala shopped. It didn't matter how much time she took, the look on her face was enough to keep him settled. She was enjoying herself a lot and while shopping wasn't for him, he wouldn't want to ruin her time. He did however, spent a bit of time looking over the weapons and armor pieces they had to offer. Chainmail, Isurian Steel, ornate handles etc. He could stay there for a time, but he decided to wait before he bought anything.

by **Gillar** on December 16th, 2013, 7:47 am

The Isur inhabiting the Southern Border Post were a unique breed. The Post was located on the outer most limits of the Kingdom and was further from any of the Citadels than any other border or trading post. It's isolation from the rest of Isurian life brought with it a number of benefits and drawbacks for those living there as well as for outsiders. For the inhabitants of the Post, their contact with outsiders shaped their outlook and perspective of the outside world in a way that could best be described as more open and welcoming. Where further in the Kingdom, non-isur were often in almost as much danger from the isur as they were the other natural and unnatural dangers of the Unforgiving, at the Post they were welcomed with a cautious though courteous hand.

Nearly 300 isur called the Post home. Of these, the majority were members of Izurdin's Hammer, the militant defense force of the Kingdom. Led by the Bronze Hammer,Sular Firehammer Coglias, the Hammer was the first line of defense against any threats both interior and exterior to the Kingdom. Kavala and Riaris could easily differentiate between the isur tradesmen, civilian families and the Hammer. The isur were, if anything, formal when it came to occupation. The tradesmen all wore, in various manners and adornments, the symbol of a crossed hammer and tongs. This was the symbol of industry in isurian culture. Civilian family members and isur visitors bore no such badge. The Hammer however wore black leather breastplates with a simple black leather helmet. In the center of the breastplate was a symbol of a shield with a hammer in the center. These men and women, most of whom bore an emerald-green arm, were all around five feet in height yet looked as though they were built like their legendary mountain home to the north. Muscle upon muscle upon muscle made up these green-armed warriors. Even compared Riaris who himself was a giant among men, these isur were mighty in their own right. Each carried a weapon; hammer, sword, dagger, axe, of the most brilliantly hued silver ever seen. Something that Kavala and Riaris would pick up on from other outsiders was that even the most inexperienced of the Hammer were more than a match for five men.

For the most part, the Hammer remained on the periphery of the goings on at the Post. A few made their way through the Courtyard while keeping a watchful eye on the Trading Grounds. It was common knowledge that both Kavala and Riaris would hear of that crime was dealt with harshly and with little mercy. It was said that the Bronze Hammer was a man to be both feared and respected as it was he who maintained ultimate authority over the Post.

During their morning spent in the Trading Grounds, Riaris and Kavala were greeted by no small amount of wonder as well as excitement from the local isur. Few Akalak frequented the Post, in fact Riaris was the first one in quite some time. His massive height and physical sculpt brought a strange manner of attention. The isur were a people who, obvious by their appearance, prided themselves of physical perfection. Each and every one of them, man, woman and child, looked as though they were living statues sculpted from the hardest stone by the most skilled of hands. Their skin was without blemish, their bodies never without tone and definition, their faces angular and exotic in a way that made lessers want to spend vast amounts of time just staring at them. The reaction Riaris received from a number of isur was almost universal; they would bring their metallic fists to their chest and lowered their heads. It looked like a sign of respect though, unless Riaris or Kavala asked, it was merely conjecture.

As they spent their morning trading at the local shops, Kavala found herself well accepted among the isur. The mountain people held the whole concept of trade, industry and commerce in very high regard. Kavala quickly made herself known as a merchant of high esteem with her wares which made her attainment of preferred lodgings on the First Balcony no surprise.

The goods Kavala acquired, including the various animal-life, were kept on hold for her with promised preparation and delivery upon her departure from the Post. Kavala herself was also something of a marvel to the isur. While tales of the exotic, pale women of the isle were not unknown to the isur, Kavala was the first most had ever seen in person. This made her something of an immediate celebrity of sorts with more than a few isur looking upon her with curiosity and in a couple of cases, awe.

Kavala's request to meet with the local Anvil, Emaneus Rightstone Vizerian, had been sent ahead of her arrival. The Anvil, apparently intrigued by the request, had ensured Kavala and Riaris were granted entry into the Post with little hassle. With the meeting scheduled for later in the evening, Kavala and Riaris were able to finish their venture in the Trading Grounds with plenty of time for a meal.

This brought them to a rather simple, polished granite building on the First Balcony that was positioned at the very edge overlooking the Courtyard. This building was known, strangely enough, as the "On the Edge Tavern".

Inside, the tavern was anything but simple. While it did contain the expected collection of tables, chairs and benches, the sight of the bar at the far end of the tavern was quite special. The bar was carved from a solid piece of sapphire. Its deep blue facets reflected the light of torches in an almost hypnotic, subtle display of illuminated beauty. It wasn't the bar though that was the source of nearly everyone's attention in the tavern. Along the wall built on the edge of the balcony itself was a window ten feet wide and a couple of heads taller than Riaris.

If she were to gaze upon the window, Kavala would see into the deepest fathoms of the sea. Where no light could reach she as if it were bright as daylight. Creatures of such beauty as well as horror, as small as her finger and as large as the Post itself swam about. Strange lights flickered in the distance while schools of fish, white as bone and without eyes darted about en-mass. In the sea floor, in the center of the alien life that filled the water around in, was a vast expanse of ruins. Blasted statues and shattered buildings littered the sea floor in a way that may remind Kavala of an epic graveyard beyond the scope of mortal comprehension. It was as if the hands of the gods had wrought terrible divine wrath upon an entire kingdom. All of this Kavala viewed as though she were standing on a small outcropping of an undersea mountain while looking out over the field of ultimate death and destruction.

Riaris would see a great city of marble pillars, arches, statues and fountains surrounded by a circle of mountains. He looked down upon the great city from an impossible height on the side of a mountain. A network of bridges connected grand towers from one to the other. Webbing its way from the ground up the side of the mountains could only be described as a living, breathing, moving mass of steel, ropes, pulleys and gears filled with fire, smoke, rock and iron. It was an industrial complex of mining mastery not known since before the Valterrian. In the center of the city, rising up like a mortal-sculpted mountain in its own right, was what looked to be a temple. It was crafted from gold, marble, silver and steel; it looked like the ultimate offering to the gods, or maybe one god, from those living within the city.

From the far end of the tavern, behind the sapphire bar, both Kavala and Riaris would have their attention drawn to an isurian male with neatly beaded silver hair and a black, silver-veined arm. It wasn't his smooth, deep voice that caught their attention though, it was his bright, unnaturally blue eyes that even dulled the blue of the bar he stood behind. "Welcome, outsiders, to The Edge. Please, have a drink and relax. While you are here, consider my home to be yours."

by **Kavala** on December 26th, 2013, 4:45 pm

For Kavala, visiting the foreign land was a rare treat. She found the Isur both gracious and courteous and incredibly fair in their dealings. Walking around the courtyard with Rairis really drove home the point that the world she lived in was vast and the people that dwelled in it with her came from incredibly diverse backgrounds. Here she could look the men in the eye, unlike in Riverfall where everyone towered over her. People were eager to trade, to converse, and exchange news. So she made her way slowly around the booths, shopping as she went picking up small things here and there, a toy for Tasival, a necklace for Raris’ sisters, and others at The Sanctuary.

When Kavala stopped the armor smith’s section, the conversation got more intense and the haggling became fierce. Riaris found himself measured alongside Kavala for a chainmail shirt she seemed to have negotiated to be completely outfitted with Izentor and Isurian Steel. At a small booth for daggers, another order was placed with Kavala detailing exactly what the parameters for the daggers she required. She spared no coin, for sure, well representing the type of women that dwelled in Riverfall by demonstrating her knowledge of the weapons and what she thought made for the best pieces. The haggling in this booth was good natured with a lot of laughter and jokes exchanged. There was a language barrier so much repeating and rephrasing had to be done to communicate. Kavala was in her element playing the equivalent of a Konti Noble exchanging scrolls of healing for thanks whenever tips or information was passed her way.

The bartering was good fun and wore the afternoon away. She procured axes for Vanator and a somewhat oversized almost enormous repeating crossbow which she stated would work fantastically up on the wall of The Sanctuary for the next time the Zith attacked. Most of her findings were slated to be delivered to the ship when completed or her room if they would be ready prior to the pair’s departure. She even dragged Rairis into a fur dealer and together got fitted for matching fur lined heavy cloaks that were marked with the Izurian god’s symbol to keep them clean. Riaris got black, of course, while Kavala’s cloak turned out to be ermine of the fairest white. There was one in Kavala’s size already made but Riaris would have to wait for his which was promised the next day or not later than the day after. Kavala was very satisfied with the price she paid and they were off to the next booth.

Gifts were acquired for Aweston, Chalce and the twins. Riaris’ parents were seen too as well as his sisters who got a selection of very nice though exotic items.

The Rivarian pair looked over the armor and weapons next, getting fitted for the proper balance of two-bladed swords. The one the swordsmith had for sale ready-made was too small for Riaris and too big for Kavala. So with negotiations underway and haggling set in, Kavala got two weapons ordered, completely done in Isurdian steel and marked with Izentor. She just about winced over the armor costs, but still made sure when they hit that section of the courtyard that Riaris walked out with a well placed order for a nice fitted chain mail shirt also of the steel and marked with their god’s gnosis.

By the time Kavala had her share of shopping, her pockets were quite empty and too most of the credit from the tradegoods she brought in lue of mizas were exhausted. And they had roughly days and days to wait for some of the times they ordered to be completed. So after she was done, and they’d seen wherever and shopped whomever Riaris had wanted too, they made their way to what everyone she asked said was the most fantastical bar in all of the world: On The Edge Tavern.

Within its doors, Riaris got the same amount of attention he seemed to get everywhere they went. And though the denizens of the bar were polite, Kavala could sense the big Akalak’s growing need for food and probably something a little harder than water to drink to settle his nerves. While Kavala loved playing the noble, she wasn’t sure Riaris was comfortable in that position. She felt accepted, even welcomed, and everyone seemed willing to talk to her. She met people who were willing to talk herbalism, healing, and even magic. She met those that taught her something about weapons, their balance and precision, and expanded her knowledge far beyond what it was before she stepped foot in the post. So when she started inquiring about food, the tavern’s name came up over and over. So armed with directions and advice on what to order, Kavala definitely plotted their journey so that they would end up there for a meal.

Kavala got no further past the door than the window, which she immediately gravitated towards. She bypassed the solid sapphire bar to walk directly to the glass pane and gazed out it, staring at the underwater vista before her. She touched the glass reverently, smiled, and drank her fill of the sight. Some of the patrons turned, amused, as they witnessed yet another first time visitor loose herself to the magic of the window. Kavala stared so long she would have been lost to the vista had the man not spoken. She blinked, stepped back from the glass, and met the silver-haired man with the black arm. She offered him a grateful smile. “Thank you. We will. This window, though, is just… perhaps the most wondrous thing I have ever seen. What it shows cannot be real though… or is it? Do I see what he sees? Or does the window show everyone something different?” Kavala asked casually, still backing up from the magical item and finding a seat nearer the man. The table still offered a view of the window, but from it she could converse with the stranger, gaze at the bar, and see the whole room unobstructed. When a waitress came, she placed her order, and waited for Rairis to order as well. Then, Kavala was sipping Isurian wine and nibbling little sticks of fresh bread as they waited on the meal.

She turned, once they were settled, and gave Rairis her ear, wondering what he thought of the visit so far.

ledger additions :

by **Riaris Dovukalis** on January 5th, 2014, 9:55 pm

Riaris was enjoying himself is a land so far away from his home. The Isur were well mannered and seem to feel about trade the way the Akalak felt about fighting. One thing they did have in common was the ideas on staying in top physical shape. The people were small in height, but that meant nothing from their size, and they all looked strong..even the children looked like they could take a glassbeak. The people were eager to trade, very eager, and it was to the point that it became almost infectious, however Riaris himself had nothing to trade.

He was really along for the ride, and just wanting to spend more time with Kavala. The trip had been planned before, and she already knew what she wanted to do when she got there. For him it was a vacation of sorts, and while he would mingle and window shop, he wasn't likely to purchase anything...maybe. When they reached the armor smith’s section, Riaris stood back and watched Kavala work. The woman was good with haggling, and he only really spoke up for the conversation and comparing notes. It was obvious by now that the woman was outfitting her people for a war that he wasn't aware of. But seeing this all, made him wonder if he and a few others should make the trip back up later for weapons The Kuvay'Nas could use.

The Akalak's thoughts of Kavala's war building team grew more as the day passed. She bought more weapons for her brother, as if he didn't have enough axes, and a very impressive large crossbow made just for Zith it would seem. After a while, her home would be impenetrable, and it might become something of it's own city one day. Riaris had been enjoying the weapon talk and seeing all the hardware was nothing but a wonder for his male eyes. However, Kavala then dragged him to a fur shop, and he didn't mind that but he had expected that she was just shopping for herself. He was surprised when she set him up for a sitting for a fur coat. They were matching coats, the kind of 'his and hers' items, and he couldn't turn down that smile.

Riaris was glad that Kavala thought to purchase items for his family, and he could already see the look on his sister's faces when they received them.

When they started to look at more weapons, Riaris was glad to see that Kavala wanted to buy the weapon of his choice. He remembered How their last training session had gone, and he wasn't sure how she felt about the blade. But now, seeing her purchasing two of the finest steel made him smile. In fact, he hugged the woman to him and planted a kiss upon her lips twice. However with all the joy of showing the Akalak decided to join in himself. The cross bow that Kavala had purchased seemed like a good weapon to learn so he would buy one also. He thought more about defense and decided to purchase himself a shield to go along with it and figured that Kavala could use one also.

Riaris did slip away for only a few chimes to find a jeweler and ordered a pair of rings for him and Kavala. His was simple gold, while hers had a nice stone placed in the center. It was chance she wouldn't like it, but he hoped that she could and that she would see what he was trying to do. It had been a day full of shopping and the Akalak had been having a good time with Kavala, he was glad to settling down from it and do something else for a change. He returned to his beloved, kissed her sweetly, then with an arm around her, they headed off together.

Entering the bar, Riaris kept Kavala close, unless the woman pushed away. He wasn't used to so much attention and between the two he would say that Kavala was the more interesting and deserving of the eyes of the crowd. Still the people were kind enough and he would slowly get settled in with the coming days. At the time, he was more interested in finding food and some form of wine so that he can Kavala could celebrate. He hadn't been inside five ticks before his pale eyes were drawn to the massive window in the room. It was a breathtaking scene full of wonder and delight. Riaris moved slowly, closer to the window and stared into the deep beyond.

If there were others watching him, he had tuned them all out for the sight before him. It was mystical and unlike anything that he had seen before, but he took in the sight and wouldn't forget what he saw. A moment later his gaze was pulled away by a voice from across the tavern. Riaris turned his head away to look into the window once more, while he listened to Kavala speak beside him. "A illusion? Is that what this is?" he asked as he pulled himself away and took a seat beside her. "What did you see? Could it have been so different from what I saw?"

Riaris ordered when the waitress came, then took Kavala's hand and kissed it gently. He stared into her cool, blue eyes and sat with her as he held her hand in his. "I'm not used to being looked at. It's distracting, but I'm not offended. These are a great people and I have learned a lot just by talking with them. I'm not one for magic, but their armor and weapon work are very impressive." Smiling weakly, he gently turned her hand so that he could lock his fingers with her. "I'm really enjoying myself here..with you. Thank you for inviting me."

OOC1- Crossbow, Repeating (Izurian) - 250 gm
28 - Crossbow, Repeating Clip (5 bolts) – 28 gm
1- Sword, Double Bladed – 50+250 (Izurdian Steel)+500(Izentor) = 800

Total 1078 gm

by **Gillar** on January 6th, 2014, 5:53 am

Rideon Mistshadow, the barkeep and owner of On the Edge, never tired of seeing the reaction newcomers to his establishment had to the window. Unlike nearly all of Clan Pitrius, Rideon enjoyed the diversity of people who visited his bar. He reveled in the wonder and amazement others felt when the window shared its images with them. Of course, the Pitrius in him absolutely loved the shared secrets and general influence gained from information people spilled while being drunk. When Kavala and Riaris entered, Rideon could tell that his day was about to get interesting. It had been quite some time since he had seen a Konti and even longer since seeing an Akalak. What he knew of the Akalak people was not the most flattering. They usually fought first and thought last if at all. Amazing when it came to combat, they didn't exactly balance such a thing with intelligence. While those of the Coglias Clan would find a kindred spirit in the Akalak, the Pitrius were the furthest from that. Yet, despite that general perspective, Rideon was all about individuality; he seldom relied on the stereotypes many of his clan clung to. As for the Konti, Rideon admired their alien beauty and their unique sight. Their perspective on reality was deep and thoughtful which Rideon held in high esteem. He did however believe in caution when it came to interactions with the exotic women as they often knew more about a person than Rideon was comfortable with.

When the Konti woman responded to his greeting, Rideon had just finished cleaning a couple of mugs. He sat the rag down and walked around the bar to stand in front of it. As he looked out the window, he saw his own personalized illusion and sighed comfortably. He then turned his eyes from the window to Kavala and said with his deep voice with a moderate isurian accent, "The window was a gift from Ionu, the Great Illusionist. It presents a different view to anyone who looks at it. The only common thread to what is seen is that everything shown is shown as if the person was standing on the edge of something. So for example, when I look at it now, it appears as though I'm standing on the edge of a grand crater looking down at a lake buried in the heart of a long dead volcano. There are creatures never before seen by mortal eyes living in the impossibly clear water and along the lake edge. You both see something completely different." Rideon reached into a pocket on his shirt and pulled a roughly wrapped cigar. He put it in his mouth and leaned down to a nearby candle to light it. A gout or two of smoke later. the cigar was lit and he was puffing on it.

"As I tell all who gaze upon the window for the first time, what you see is, in a sense, real. The images exist or have existed though not necessarily in the land of mortals. What is shown is what Ionu has witnessed firsthand. You are seeing things seen by a god...or goddess, whatever Ionu chooses to be at the time. Normally, for first-timers like yourselves, what is seen exists in the present or the past in our realm. However, as you may very well be aware, or maybe not, the gods can exist in many different realms far removed from our own. What is seen in the window can be from one of those other places. Or it could be from our own realm just not able to be seen by most. Usually though, the first thing you see is from somewhere in our world either in the past or in the present." Rideon realized long ago that he had the tendency to talk too much when it came to religion in general so he stopped himself before getting to carried away. Instead, he leaned over the sapphire bar and pulled forth two mugs and a smoked glass bottle of some sort. He poured the contents of the bottle into the mugs and walked over to where Riaris and Kavala were. He sat the mugs on the table.

With a wide smile he said, "These two are on the house. They are a very special brew that when you finish the entire mug, your experience with the window will never be more complete unless you were there in person." The contents of the mugs, if Kavala or Riaris were to look before drinking, were an ever shifting, ever morphing blend of color and texture. The smell too was odd in that it smelled like fresh lilacs. Whatever was in the mugs was almost hypnotic to look at.

If they were to drink and finish the mugs before looking once more into the window, both would find that they were unable to stand or remain standing. Kavala would taste the salty water on her gills as she looked out on the underwater ruins. The wet, coolness of the depths would envelop her and in every way she would feel as though she were deep underwater, looking out on ruined landscape that at one time may have been great.

Riaris would hear the sounds of great machines echoing from rock wall to rock wall. The smell of smoke filled the air and busyness of the sight before him would be just short of deafening. The air was cool yet not overly so and he could actually make out the sounds of countless hammers pounding metal while massive gears and pulleys turned, pulled and pushed. As chaotic as it all sounded on its own, when mixed with the imagery from the window it blended into a chorus of industrial magic and mastery.

Nothing that Kavala or Riaris felt was all that overwhelming. If they looked away from the window, everything went back to normal. If they looked back into it, the experience resumed. Though all an illusion, a trick on the senses, in some way what they experienced was real, at least in some way.

by **Kavala** on January 10th, 2014, 10:48 pm

“It’s beautiful.” Kavala agreed, gesturing towards the window. “I see a vast ruined city under the water. It was something huge and amazing at one point… but now it’s in ruins, definitely flooded. I want to go there, and swim among the ruins.” Kavala admitted, tearing her eyes from the scene for a moment to glance over at Riaris and meet his pale blue gaze. They moved together, found seats, and ordered. She smiled when Riaris took her hand and gently squeezed it. “I agree. This has been an amazing trip. They are an amazing people. I spoke to one earlier... and he said they have been really closed off from the outside world since the Valterrian. I think they blame humans for what happened. So they are cautious. But we are not human, and I’ve never felt so welcome in a strange city. I’m glad you came with me. I would have never had the courage to take this trip without you joining me.” Kavala said, smiling warmly at him and then glancing up as someone joined them abruptly.

When the stranger spoke, Kavala listened. She glanced back at the window and kept trying to ignore its lure. But it was hard, the scene being so beautiful. The man’s words washed over her and with his narrative, the window took on even more allure. He set down to mugs of brew and Kavala glanced at the drink and up at the man. Before he could speak further, she offered him her hand. “I’m Kavala Denusk, healer and this is Riaris Dovukalis. May we have the honor of your name? I’m glad you told us more about the window… it is the most amazing thing I’ve ever seen in my travels. And what you’ve told us about it we can relate to others when we tell them about this trip. It’s been absolutely amazing visiting here. I would have come sooner had I know the graciousness of the Isur people and their vast knowledge. Rairis was just telling me how much he’s learned by talking to your people today. I feel the same way.” Kavala said, then glanced down at the drinks, then offered her companion another smile.

Kavala glanced down at the drink, raised a pale eyebrow, and knew a drug when she saw one. Not being one to indulge in substances, the Konti made an exception because she got no ill will at all from anything about their situation here. Sure, it could all be a ruse to rope people in, get them to spend money, then kill them and throw their bodies in the sea. But she doubted it. Taking a leap of faith, Kavala wrapped her scaled hand around the mug, brought it to her lips, and drank. At first she took only a sip, found the brew pleasant, and continued drinking until the mug was gone. There was no quaffing, no upending and greedily drinking it down. No, Kavala took her time and enjoyed the beverage, turning her eyes from the man and Riaris and back to the window only when the mug was empty.

The window came alive.

It was alive before, but now it had a depth that was indescribable. She felt the warmth of the fluid infuse her body and Kavala smiled softly, gazing out the window. She really wanted to push off from her chair and swim forth to explore the ruins. The Konti seemed to take forever watching the scene and loosing herself in Ionu's magic.

When the drink stabilized and she got used to staring out the window at the view... Kavala turned and smiled at Rideon. "I think this is the city of Valkalah. Everything inside me tells me it is. " She said softly, then tilted her head and smiled, staring a moment at the Isur's arm.

"I mean no offense, but I would like to ask you about your people. I have noticed that your kind have an unusually large and strong looking arm... all range of colors. Do the colors mean anything and are there any stories behind how your people came to have these arms?" Kavala asked, curiously, but not wanting to offend the man after he gave them a drink and was so welcoming with his information.

by **Riaris Dovukalis** on January 16th, 2014, 2:16 am

Riaris smiled, thinking of how different what Kavala saw was from what he had seen. It was very different from what he had seen, but it some how fit. He could vision Kavala swimming around in the underwater world, exploring and finding it's secrets. It seemed as if she had been born to do those things. "That is something, what I saw was different. It was the opposite of your world, in a way. It wasn't the ruins of an old civilization, but the birth of one. Large and powerful machines. Maybe even driven by magic were cutting into rock and stone and building out from it's center point." It was uniquely imaginative to say the least and the Akalak found himself looking back to the window again.

The story that the Isur told her held a very different attitude than his own people. They didn't like humans, but the Akalak seemed to adore them, some more than others. Riaris himself preferred Konti, but that was somewhat due to the fact that there were so many in his family. "This place is great, very different from Riverfall. I supposed welcomed is a good word, though I'm feeling more watched than anything. I'm glad I came to, we have a good time together, and you seem completely at awe with this place. I don't think I can make you smile so much. But it makes me happy."

While seated, he too listened with interest as the Isur explained the mysterious window and it's magical power. To think that what he saw was either in the past, or in some other realm was more than curious and Riaris wanted to go out and search for it. But he dared not, they had done well getting Kavala's vessel as far as they had gotten it. To try and find this place would be insanity. Kavala introduced them and he nodded his head in a greeting. "Your people are strong and your crafting is amazing. I'm assuming you have some form of training area here judging by the build of every person that I've seen today. I'd like to see it for myself." Riaris took the mug and looked into it, he wasn't sure what, but he knew this wasn't an illusion, and a quick glance to Kavala proved that thought.

He waited and watched as she took her first sip and took his at the same moment. He glanced again at the bartender, and as she did, he also took his time and drank it down. Riaris started to watch Kavala's reaction as her window came alive, but the smells of smoke and the roaring sound of hammers and machines called him back to his own illusion. Like his father, he also had a bit of a builder inside him so the scene before him was awe inspiring. "Are you as entranced in this as I am Kavala? There are sounds now and smells to go with the images. It's very...real." One hand reached out to find hers but he couldn't take his eyes off the window just yet. "Bartender..tell us more about this God of illusion."

by **Gillar** on January 20th, 2014, 1:14 pm

Rideon was a man of simple pleasures. He had owned his bar for longer than most mortals could know even if it was but a small span of time for an isur. The window that he had so carefully included in the bar's construction, "Ionu's Mirror" as it was known among those dwelling in the Tower, provided him with a daily source of unmatched entertainment. Well, almost unmatched anyway as the other source of excitement for the eccentric Pitrius Isur was encountering new patrons. This day, the two new patrons who had entered were of the most unique novelty encountered in quite some time. Their interest in the Mirror was not unexpected but hearing of what they saw and listening to their questions was quite unlike much of what Rideon had considered to be normal events in a day.

Pouring himself a mug of Isurian Ale, he pulled up a chair and sat with Riaris and Kavala. He loved conversation; it was something that set him apart from the rest of his clan.

Rideon, given introduction by Kavala to her and to Riaris, happily humored their questioning. It wasn't everyday he had the chance to speak with an Akalak and a Konti together. "Kavala...it is a pleasure to meet you, young healer and you mighty Riaris. My name is Rideon Mistshadow Pitrius. We don't normally grant outsiders the pleasure of our Clan name but for you, I will make an exception." Though he was a bartender used to speaking with people, he was still an isur and as such spoke with a bit of bluntness.

He looked to the window then down to his drink before looking back to the two guests. "The window is called, "Ionu's Mirror", it was a gift from Ionu for my services." Rideon raised an eyebrow and chuckled slightly at Kavala's comments about the Isur being gracious.

"Kavala, you both are something of an oddity here. We don't get many of your kind at the Post. Well, actually, we don't get hardly any of your kind here; we haven't seen a Konti in many years and an Akalak in nearly as long. My people are...how should I put this...not very trusting of outsiders or at least not humans. You see, the humans in this region are not exactly civilized as my people understand the term. Most are nomadic and aren't what you would consider "prim and proper"; at least for the most part. There are of course exceptions with most of those being the few merchants that make it this far. We are in the foothills of the mountains which makes us drastically more accessible." Rideon took a swig of his drink.

"Your encounters with my people this day have likely been positive because of, not only what you are, but because of what you bring. You both strike me as, while a little rougher around the edges than I would have imagined, quite a bit more refined than the majority of those we are used to dealing with...outsiders that is."[b] Rideon took another swig of ale, cleared his throat and continued. [b]"I've learned quite a bit in my time not only as a barkeep but as a servant of Ionu. Appearance is, unfortunately and fortunately depending on your perspective, a very important part of life. For my people, it is one of the MOST important parts of life. You, Kavala, have an exotic beauty and grace that is undeniable. Though fragile in body..." Rideon flinched at his own words and tried to recover. "I'm sorry, my damned isurian blood sometimes speaks for me. What I started to say and really mean is that as a Konti, you possess an beauty that is foreign and unique to my people. We are used to seeing weak, fragile, ugly humans. It's not often that we are blessed with beauty from outsiders."

Rideon took another swig and said, "We are as unique and interesting to you as you are to us. It is rare that we receive anyone so different...a rare treat. Honestly, if you were human, you wouldn't have received such an experience. It's sad to say but it is true."

Rideon revealed no lack of interest as Kavala mentioned what she had experienced in the Mirror/Window. While he had never heard of a place called, Valkalah, he quickly understood that it was of no small significance to Kavala.

Both visitors had many questions for him and Rideon was more than happy to answer. Kavala's question about the isurian arm caught him a little off-guard. It was not something most people asked about and Kavala's forwardness was actually kind of refreshing. "Our arms? Well, for us, our arms are as natural as breathing or blinking. You see, the isur are the children of Izurdin. I'm sure a priest could give you more in-depth insight to all of this but what all isur are taught as soon as they are able to hear, is that we are all children of Izurdin, God of Strenght, Patience and Industry. Back when humans first stepped foot on the land, the gods at the time jump at the opportunity to shape and mold the newcomers in a way that would best suit their needs and desires. Of all of them, Izurdin chose to sit back. He watched as humans were manipulated and controlled by his divine brothers and sisters in a way that he felt destroyed the human potential. You see, Izurdin is not one to interfere with mortal lives. He is a teacher, a guide, one who shapes and molds indirectly yet firmly. He knew that by taking a more direct action, he may anger the other gods. While he had no fear of most of them, he did not want to cause greater trouble. The world at the time was still fragile and he any additional conflict could have been dangerous."

Rideon looked into his mug and thought a bit about what he would say next. He wasn't a priest or a philosopher. His loyalty was to Ionu first and Izurdin second unlike most of his kind. The story he told however was a story told to all Isur.

"Izurdin decided that the best way to pass his teachings on to humans and influence their growth and evolution was to create a messenger that could be accepted by the humans yet still stand out as being superior. This would provide the vessel for teaching the humans what Izurdin wished them to know. So, from stone gathered from his divine realm he sculpted a humanoid skeleton. From a chunk of silver he imbued the statue with muscle, tenon and sinew. From his own reflection in the silver he granted the figure flesh, just like what you see in my people now. The arm was all that remained fleshless. Touching the arm, he granted it the form and color of ruby, just like his own. Then, breaking off a piece of his own divine heart, Izurdin used it to give his creation life. Thus was born, King Izurith, the first Isur and Founder of our race. King Izurdin, after many a discussion with his father, decided that in order to truly help the humans, he would have to create a model for which they could follow. In a process similar to that which he was born from, he created the second generation of Isur. At that time, they were a combination of many earthly elements. They were all sentient and alive and true living creatures. They lived, loved and created more and more Isur. Over the ages, they leaned toward certain elements over others. Ten primary earthly elements emerged from which clans were born."

Continuing with his conversation, Rideon said, "Unfortunately, of those ten clans, only five survive today. Of those, Pitrius, the clan I belong to, embrace magical pursuits. We all have black arms. Then there are the Terras Isur. They sport violet arms and are made up of almost all females. They tend to excel in smithing and creation. The Coglias clan, and this you may be interested in Riaris, focus their lives on physical perfection above and beyond the average isur and indulge in combative and militaristic pursuit. They sport arms that are green, emerald in color. We also have the Vizerian clan. Their arms are some shade of blue and they serve as our historians and spiritual leaders. Finally there are the Sultros Clan. They have traditionally been the leaders and politicians of our race. I don't know if the colors of our arms really have any baring on the specialties each clan claims to have but one's clan usually indicates the direction of one's life." Rideon was forthright and honest at least in his tone as he spoke. As a bartender, he learned that information was not just a commodity but also a way of connecting with people.

"In all honesty, I am not much of an expert on the historical spect of my people. I've chosen a different path. If you are truly looking to learn more about my people, I would suggest speaking with Emaneus Rightstone Vizerian. He is the emissary of Izurdin's Forge, a member of Izurdin's Anvil and the primary religious representative here at the Post. He can give a much greater insight into Izurdin and our people than I. My path follows the will of Ionu, God of Illusion." Rideon looked to Riaris.

He smiled and said, "Through Ionu, you've seen the height of our civilization. What you describe sounds very much like when my people were experience something of a golden age. We were once the symbol of progress and industry. It is what Izurdin had planned all along. He wished our people to be the model of perfection and progress for all of humanity. Unfortunately, it did not turn out as such. Nevertheless, the isur were meant to be lead humanity to a greater existence. Whether or not that happens is, in my mind, still undecided." Taking another swig of his ale, Rideon looked into the mug and noted that it was nearly empty.

Regarding your question about training and such, my people are born with the desire to perfect their physical form. It is an essential foundation of our race. If you truly wish to learn more about our quest for physical superiority, I would seek out wisdom from the Hammer. Although I personally don't like the idea of associating the concept of wisdom with the Hammer, they are with out a doubt the most militaristic, physical and disciplined of our race. They are in charge of the overall operation of the Post. Any member of the Hammer will direct you to the Bronze Hammer. He is the ultimate "Law of the Land" as it were around here." Rideon grew ever more animated when Riaris asked him about Ionu.

Rideon finished off his mug, stared into it for a moment and then set it down. He looked at the window then to Riaris and said"Ionu is a unique figure to be sure. He is the God of Illusion and Perception. He has also been referred to as the Trickster yet I don't see him as quite that. You see, we all view everything around us with our senses. Sight, sound, taste, touch and smell all work together to great our perceived reality. Ionu reveals to us that realty is relative. Our senses can be deceptive and manipulated in ways that may change our reality. Through Ionu, I've learned that what we experience through our senses is not solid. It can be changed and altered in a way that can make us feel good, bad or indifferent. Those of us who choose to fully embrace Ionu are blessed with an enhanced perception of reality and can express that altered reality onto others. If you truly wish to learn more, I am more than happy to teach you but not here and not now." Rideon looked toward the door to the bar and noticed another visitor.

The person who entered was dressed in flowing black robes sporting the symbol of a silver flame. He had short, black hair and carried himself with a noble posture. Rideon leaned in closer to Kavala and Riaris and said, "That's Arvus. He's the Sentinel around here and the man in charge. The Bronze Hammer would argue this but Arvus is a Master of Magic and representative of the Silver Tower, the highest form of magical study among our people. I need to go, industry and good business calls. Riaris, I am serious, if you ever wish to learn more about Ionu, I would be happy to teach you. Otherwise, it's been MORE than a pleasure to meet you both but I have a customer to attend to. Stay as long as you wish and come back whenever you want. You have my respect and good wishes." Rideon held out his hand to both Riaris and Kavala. Both would recognize even from their relatively short time spent at the Post that the offer of a hand to shake from an Isur was meant as a symbol of great respect and hope for future interaction.

by **Kavala** on February 3rd, 2014, 5:30 pm

Kavala was enjoying herself tremendously. Rideon’s company was stellar and his explanations were thorough. She liked that he made himself comfortable and pulled up a chair to sit with them. It was just as warm and welcoming as the rest of the visit had been in the Southern Boarder Outpost. Kavala carefully filed his clan name away, noting his arm color and what he said about the clans in general. She nodded at the explaination of the window, offering it a bright smile and commenting only that it was a miracle of creation.

Kavala was no idiot. She knew she was looking at an artifact level device if she’d ever seen one. Pre-Valterrian, the world was supposed to be full of them. And yet here, in the Kingdom of the Isur, was something that echoed strongly of the powers of the past and what the people of the world had lost.

Not her people though. The Konti were too new to the world and too late to the game. For a quiet moment, she wondered if there had been more Konti if they could have changed the course of the world with their insight or if in fact the Valterrian never happened if her people would have came into being the way they had.

Rideon’s lulling voice brought her back to the present and she nodded to what he was saying. “I’ve heard there is barbarian tribes in Kalea and that they often times resemble animals more than they resemble people. And well... I’ve read my history. I know Kalea was hard hit by the Valterrian. I can only speculate what your people suffered during that global event. It looked worse here, especially looking at maps from before and after.” Kavala said softly, her smile sad this time.

“I understand your feelings about humans. Though I am related to a few through my mother’s marriage to a Drykas male, I hold no real love of the race either. They are short lived and often crude in their assessments on what constitutes a good life. Honestly, humans have done me no favors and for the most part have interrupted what should have been a good solid life for me. I thank you for the compliments on my race’s beauty, but not all of us are prone to enhance appearance. For myself, I care more about strength. I was gifted by the Gods with a small slight form, but that does not mean it needs to be weak. I train hard to be fit and utilize what I have been given to the best of its advantage. I admire your people for those aspects too. Along with the Akalak…” Kavala glanced at Riaris then and offered him a loving smile. “… there have been no people more focused on fitness and health. It has been good for me living in Riverfall were they hold physical prowess to a higher standard. In that regard I see parallels between yourselves and the Akalak. But it is still nice visiting here. Everything about your people appears impeccable. I even appreciate the outposts’ outlook on crime.” Kavala said, knowing she’d spread the word about how safe it was for Konti to visit Kalea trading and touring, in hopes that more would come. “I know I will pass that on to my fellow sisters in hopes more visit here. This mirror alone… is well worth the visit.” Kavala added, looking thoughtful.

The Konti healer listened carefully as Rideon explained the significance of their arms, Izurdin, and what their Gods qualities infused their culture with. She listened to the origin of the Isur with fascination and even leaned forward slightly when he spoke of King Izurith. Her eyes flashed with sorrow to learn that of the ten clans, only five survived. She filed away the colors of arms along with the clan names in the back of her mind and tried to remember the qualities Rideon assigned to each. It would come in handy trading for sure and even seeking company in the region. That they had an all female clan with violet arms fascinated her as well. Terras … she hadn’t yet seen one in the outpost, but now that she knew what to look for she’d certainly keep on track. She caught Rideon skipping over something and started to ask him what color the Sultros clan arms were, but then she paused, knowing. She’d seen King Sultros in Leo’s Chavi and remembered his … “Red. The Sultros Clan has red arms…” She muttered to herself out loud.

Kavala smiled. “I have a meeting with the Anvil later. I suspect that is the same one. I have much to ask him and discuss with him.” Kavala added, then turned to sip the wine the waitress brought her as Rideon and Riaris spoke.

The konti shook Rideon’s hand when he got up and Kavala took note of the man Rideon pointed out. She grinned at Riaris, then flagged the waitress down and asked her if she knew what the Isur Arvus… the Sentinel liked to drink and then asked her to take him a drink over compliments of the Konti and Akalak. “Will you tell him that the two guests over here have admired the fineness of his Outpost and enjoyed their trading and knowledge seeking trip enormously.” Kavala said and passed her coin to do so with.