(RP) SFR: The Age of Reconquista

[Noblesse Oblige]

Hipsania is a land divided. Enduring the conquest of the Kokonid Moors for centuries has left a bitter taste in its people, and has divided all on faith, politics and hatred. The Vestinian faith, driven to the border with Gallica has left its people scared, and its rulers envious.

The Ximena family, a Biscarian noble family since the days of the early Reconquista, has expanded its influence, and as a result has claimed the thrones of much of the Independent Vestinian Kingdoms in Hipsania. However greed has overtaken their souls as brother fights brother and the fellow faithful fighting their fellow believers. Will this mark the end of the Reconquista?
----
Luciana de Tordesillas

“By the Grace of our God, I thus proclaim thee, Garcia Sanchez Ximena, King of Jaca! May you serve your people well!”

The cheers were overheard throughout the great hall of Castle Barbastro, the capital and largest city of the Kingdom of Jaca. In the back however were two knights, one clad in red steel armor, the other in white leather watched on the balcony nearby. “So we have another family member taking another throne. The royal family has gotten to be quite the success story.” The red-clad knight said, and his apprentice, Luciana spoke. “I doubt another Ximena would help our case back home.”

“In any case, we have completed our mission; let us report back to the King.”

“Yes, Sir Rodrigo.” Luciana said immediately as soon as she began to walk out of the castle, and into the hot summer suns of Northern Hipsania. They would have to pass through the Great Plains of Alta Jaca on the way to Biscaria and finally into Castilla.
----
Joachim d’Romilly

Joachim was busy doing his normal routine, running the affairs of his county for the Duke of Toulousa. As Prince-Bishop and Court Chaplain, it was his responsibility to cater to the people living there. But his county was a border province, situation on the border between Gallican Toulousa and Castilla, a neighboring Kingdom to the South. With the threat of war tearing apart the Castillan people, many subjects who could afford the trek began moving northwards into his county, making the already fragile situation worse than before. He had heard messages from the King that the Temple Knights would be heading to the castle to intervene in the case the fighting spilled into their lands. but Joachim personally wanted to see if he could quash the matter once and for all. For the safety of his lord's subjects as well for those of Castilla.

Writing the records of the matter in a large book, the Prince-Bishop put the quill down, leaving the book open so the ink could dry as he stood up, dusting his robes off, heading out to the courtyards for some fresh air.

[Tipsynaruto]

Leowyne Grandeeny

Leowyne! Leeooowyyne! Where are you girl?!

The deep voice boomed through the stone walls of The Temple. Muffled greetings and clinking of metal accompanied the man as Paladins and monks moved aside as he came closer to the dining hall. Both of the hall's large wooden doors burst open and in strolled an impressive man, clad in glorious paladin armour. Despite being his age showing in his face and hair, the man was imposing and intimidating nonetheless. Seated at the head of one of the long tables in the hall Leowyne Grandeeny had half a bun to her mouth when she turned towards the man. Instantly, she shot to her feet and bowed.

Master. I am here. Were you in need for me?

Leowyne. There is no need for this formality, but yes. I have need for you. Follow me

The Grand Master of the Temple of the Knights, Everard de Vichy took off out of the hall for some privacy, with Leowyne behind him, and took a seat in one of the secluded and private garden. Rather than take a seat next to him, Leowyne stood straight in front of him, pretty much at attention.

Sigh, you don't change do you? Well, I am sure you have heard of it by now, but the Toulousa/ Castillian border is becoming a hot pot due to the infighting between the royals as of late. The king has seen fit to send the Templars down to deal with the in the influx of refugees, and if it comes down to it, protect the borders.

Master, why not send the army? Whilst i am loyal to my Liege, i insist on the fact that the Temple is not a branch of the Gallican Military.

Vichy sighed and muttered softly under his breath. Of course, he fully intended for Leowyne to hear.

As difficult as ever.... (more loudly) My dear. I am well aware of that, but Toulousa is Gallican territory. Do remember that you are Gallican and it is your duty to protect its people. If it makes you feel any better, think of this as refugee relief service. That is your primary goal, which is to look after them and defend them should border fighting spill towards them.

..... I understand Master. When do the men and I leave?

Oh no. I shall be leading the men. However, you will head down first and take charge of the local Toulousa branch of the Temples first. It does no one's heart any good to see an army of Templars approaching a potential war zone.

As you wish. I shall depart now.

Best of luck then and may God light your path, as always.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It didnt take Leowyne long to get dressed and ready for the trip. Armoured up, swords at her waist and her wagon readied up, the young Paladin climbed into the driver bench and sent the horse forward. While the Temple offered to have a driver accompany her, it was a small wagon with a single horse. She wasn't hauling goods besides her travel necessities in the back so she could control it, nor did she needed anyone for protection. Her own skills was well reputed and only someone suicidal would ever try to attack a wagon with the Temple sigil emblazoned brightly on the side of the wood. It was widely known that the Templars were free to travel in Gallican territory and states without too much border issues, but the sigil also had the added bonus of stopping police attention. However, a fully armoured Paladin did look odd steering a simple wagon by herself. Regardless, it has been a while since she had gone out on a trip, so Leowyne took it easy with the speed, going at a mild trot towards Toulousa

[Valkyrur]

[OOC: ARGH. Some kind of forum downtime or something happened while I submitted the post... Damn. And I thought it was of good quality too. Sigh so here goes.]


Vesper was a tourist, and an over-enthusiastic one. With a brilliant smile and carefree demeanor, she was looking up at the horizons like those in Gallica were any different from those in Valira. Behind her, her ethereal avatar followed with an expressionless face, holding on to Vesper's pack with arms of ice. It has been a few months since she last left the House of Skadi for her 'journey of self-discovery' and as things turned out, this concept of 'self-discovery' slowly morphed into simply 'discovery' as she embarked, instead, on a tour of the Gallican lands.

However, she was soon reaching the end of her tour, with her final stop being set for Toulousa. After which, she would re-enter Castilla, and be on her way home to Valira. Then, she would most likely end up in the family's magic labs where she would experiment with and weave new spells at the Valiran government's behest. The latter thought was a chilling one, and one she couldn't help but feel obligated to. The Skadi family name is a significant one, in Valira, at least. So much so that even on her travels, she was forced to swear an oath to never use her real name, and to use only her assumed name 'Vesper Kasid' until she returns to Valira.

"If only you could speak back to me, Vivi," Vesper sighs resentfully, looking at her expressionless avatar. To anyone else, this must be quite a sight because 'Vivi' is invisible to all but Vesper herself. Born from a magical spell gone awry, Vivi is a manifestation of Vesper's life energies and magical power. As such, only Vesper, who is attuned to her own life energies is able to see Vivi. And, considering her sheltered life with a lack of social interactions outside of her family, Vivi quickly became her closest confidante. Thanks to that, she slowly developed a reputation for being eccentric both within and outside of her family.

Her magical copy looked back at Vesper. "Hm. Maybe I should prepare a spell just for travelling next time... But really, Vivi, can't you do something?" And the two stared for a brief moment before Vesper noticed something behind Vivi. "A wagon?"

Picking up her pack from Vivi, she motioned for her avatar to fade the arms of ice out of sight before walking in the direction of the approaching wagon. As she came closer, she started to hesitate. For one, the wagon was ridden by a solitary figure, and a fully armored one at that. Then, there was the sigil on the sides of the wagon. She couldn't see it clearly, but a sigil, no matter what shape, size and color, usually hinted at some kind of authority figure - or so the House of Skadi would have her know anyway.

As she came closer, she noticed the features of the driver. Female, blonde and of imposing height; in general, characteristics that made her look awe-inspiring. Suddenly self-aware of her rather casual dressing, with only her weather-beaten and yellowed 'white' lab coat, over her blouse and skirt, she couldn't help but feel small in the presence of this sterling example of suaveness.

"Um, hello there, good Lady! Uh, are you... By any chance, travelling to Toulousa as well? For if you are, may I request a ride on your wagon?"

[Tipsynaruto]

Leowyne Grandeeny

Leowyne rocked slightly as the wagon continued on the road towards Toulousa. It was going to be a quiet and uneventful journey and Leowyne was going to relish every last second. The borders of Toulousa and Castilla was soon going to be anything but peaceful, so she needed to enjoy whatever quiet time she can get so her mind would be completely focused on her mission. Her peace was punctured by a rather young sounding female voice. Up ahead, said female was hailing her down. Curious, Leowyne pulled on the reins and slowed the horse down

Hmm.... wonder what is the matter....? Hail stranger. What is the matter?

"Um, hello there, good Lady! Uh, are you... By any chance, travelling to Toulousa as well? For if you are, may I request a ride on your wagon?"

Ah, a hitch hiker. Indeed i am. i can give you a ride. It is unfortunate, but as you can see, it is but a small wagon. There is no room at the back (its an open top wagon). You will have to sit in front with me. But if you do not mind, then climb on.

Someone has asked for her help and since Leowyne was already heading to Toulousa, she didnt see why there was any reason to refuse. Once the girl was on, Leowyne set off again towards the border.

[Valkyrur]

With the stranger's approval, Vesper climbed on board the wagon beside her. Up close, Vesper noticed this lady looked to be around her age. The beauty of youth was still fresh on her face, and when matched with presumably a regime of sufficient physical training, she looked her best. Combined with her height, this lady was not only about half a head taller, but she also looked stunning. Vesper couldn't help but feel small beside this epitome of the female form.

Peering rather curiously at this lady, she decided it would be best to introduce herself.

"Thank you so much for the ride, good Lady. My name is Vesper Ska--"

Vesper quickly cupped her hand over her mouth, feigning a cough.

"Kasid. Vesper Kasid."

She continued to stare rather curiously at the attire of this stranger. Something about the entire get-up rang some bells, but Vesper could not put a finger on what exactly.

[Tipsynaruto]

OOC: Kevin, My meeting with Valk's character is probably in a time a few days before your post. So by the time of my next post, ill have time skipped us to a day after the intro post and be within the city.

Leowyne Grandeeny

Leowyne watch with interest as the younger girl clambered on beside her. She carried little in terms of baggage and was traveling alone. Quite impressive by her books. Granted that she herself went through similar travels, Leowyne was always protected by Vichy when she was younger. On her solo journeys, God and the Temple's gift of training and combat skills saw to it she survived. The girl looked like she was driven by neither necessity nor mission, but rather, adventure and experience. The courage to leave one's safe haven for it was reason enough for a decent dose of respect. Once well seated, Leowyne cracked the reins and the wagon went off again, faster. With a passenger, it was best not to dawdle like before.

"Thank you so much for the ride, good Lady. My name is Vesper Ska--Kasid. Vesper Kasid."

Leowyne wasn't listening at first and was distracted. She could have sworn she heard a pause, but dismissed it as her not concentrating.

Hm? Oh! Indeed. How rude of me Ms Kasid. It is nice to make your acquaintance. My name is Leowyne Grandeeny. I am a member of the Order of the Temple.

Allowing a few seconds of pause, Leowyne quickly thought of something to say, just to make it not so awkward. Temple scholars and monks/nuns were much better received than Paladins and Knights, purely on the basis that they were a bit more intimidating. The warrior arm of the Order usually appeared at areas of upheaval as relief, so seeing them in peaceful areas such as the heart of Gallica was odd.

If you don't mind me asking Ms Kasid, I have noted you are traveling by yourself? While i applaud you for it, i have to ask... have you not heard of the disturbance on the Toulousa and Castilla border? It may become rather unstable.

[Noblesse Oblige]

OOC: That's understandable, I should have my character arriving in Toulousa City around the same time since it was a closer distance from where you guys were

IC:

Joachim d'Remilly

"Your Holiness, your carriage has arrived." An aide to Joachim called out. The man would nod and say, "Thank you, you may take your leave now." The aide bowed before turning to do other business. Joachim was left to wonder exactly what was going to happen here. He was to bring news of his findings to the court of Toulousa, and the Duke. Immediately he would walk along winding passages of the chapel before entering the carriage laid out in front of him. It was not very extravagant, but it is only so he would not be so easily made a target for whatever bandits may be lurking. The carriage would begin making its way forward, looking out into the countryside. With him was his trusted staff, a symbol of his role as Bishop, as a representative of the church in Diomedes. Also with him was the holy bible of the Vestinian faith. It was going to be dark soon, the twin white moons of Archeron looking radiant among the night sky. The third moon, bigger than the first two put together would also crown out soon.

[Valkyrur]

Vesper's heart almost stopped when she heard that this lady beside her was from the Order of the Temple. Before she left the house of Skadi for Gallica, she was warned repeatedly to avoid the Order at all costs. Granted, their reputation for being morally upright is well known but one can never be too sure. 'Politics is dirty' is what many used to justify their claims, and while Vesper regarded those warnings with her fair share of doubt, she realized that she could not help but worry for herself now that she is right beside one. Thankfully, Leowyne seemed nice enough and that helped allay some of her fears.

If you don't mind me asking Ms Kasid, I have noted you are traveling by yourself? While i applaud you for it, i have to ask... have you not heard of the disturbance on the Toulousa and Castilla border? It may become rather unstable.

"Ah, Lady Leowyne, I thank you for your concern. I may not look the part but I am capable of handling myself in tricky situations. This 'disturbance' you speak of, however, is something new to me. Pray, do tell me more about it, if you please."

[Tipsynaruto]

Leowyne Grandeeny

"Ah, Lady Leowyne, I thank you for your concern. I may not look the part but I am capable of handling myself in tricky situations. This 'disturbance' you speak of, however, is something new to me. Pray, do tell me more about it, if you please."

A slight crease of worry wrinkled Leowyne's pale face. Here was this girl, trying to travel around the continent and was about to unknowingly enter Toulousa and possibly going into Castilla with civil strife peeking over the horizon. From the reports, it appeared that the Hispanian countries were becoming a hot pot, with tensions running high. It was best to warn Vesper about the dangers she could potentially face.

It is unfortunate, but it appears that they royal brothers Ferdinando and Raul the Third are having conflicts over the Castilliand and Leonmeccanian crown. The borders between Toulousa and Castilla has become a swarm of refugees and is a tinderbox, waiting for a single match. It appears that Toulousa has requested some assistance from Gallica, so the King saw fit to send in the Temple Order to assist its vassal state....

Thinking about the situation, Leowyne felt that it was probably better if she got to her destination quicker. Cracking the rein once more, the wagon surged forward even more before turning off the track onto the main road. The Gallican main roads were well made from stone and generally reserved for nobles or the military. Since Leowyne was associated with the Order, she too was allowed to use it. The duo now zoomed down the road and it would not take too long until they reached the border crossing into Toulousa.

I cannot force you to cease your travel, but the risk of fighting is rather high. I may very well have to join as ordered by my Liege....

Leowyne stared out into the distance, her thoughts trailing as she lamented the situation.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

OOC: This is the time skip. We will come back to your response in a flash back later Valk. Slight g modding so you can reply and get into it asap

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

While the duo's trip to Toulousa was not exactly uneventful, they made good time. As expected, Leowyne could see that the garrisoned soldiers were more tensed than during normal peace time. Even the number of people outside the walls and in the outer ring of the city was high. Most of them carrying small luggages and bags, which meant they were most likely the more lucky of the refugees.

Well, it appears we have made good time, despite the little problem we had. I have to meet with the Duke and the court of Toulousa as the representative for my Order. You are free to part ways, and it has been a pleasure to have been in your company. I'd much prefer it if you followed me Ms Kasid. I have an feeling of unease about and should anything happen, to you, i would feel guilty. I don't like the wave of human heads here. Who knows what ill natured people lurk and prey on the weak. Particularly given your appearance and presence.

The wagon slowed to a halt outside the castle of the Duke's. With appropriate precaution, the guards asked Leowyne and Vesper to dismount as they will be taking temporary possession of it. The duo strolled quickly up the steps and stopped at the large doors. Leowyne presented her letter to the guards and the doors swung slightly open, enough for a single person through. Leowyne stepped half in before turning to Vesper.

Well, beyond here is the Duke and the courts. They cannot allow those with zero relations or purpose in. If you intend to part, this will be farewell and i bid you safe journey.

With a warm smile, Leowyne nodded at Vesper and continued to stroll deeper into the castle, the gate still opened for a few more seconds. A butler led the paladin towards a guest room where she was to wait with others for the counsel with the Duke. There were a few people already in the room, in which Leowyne gave a polite nod of acknowledgement. Most were rather forgettable ministers, but one or two stood out from the others.

[Valkyrur]

Vesper nodded politely, hiding her confusion from her face. She had never possessed a good mind for understanding the politics of the country, and even with the Paladin's mention of two key political figures at loggerheads, she could not see how this would affect her, or even Valira for that matter. However, from what the Paladin subsequently said, she did realize that crossing the borders of Toulousa back into her home Hipsanian soil would be somewhat tricky. That, and a reinforcement to her belief that the Order of the Temple were truly, and simply, another military arm of the Gallican authorities, disguised under the cloak of justice and morality.

Vesper remained silent, staring ahead at the road while Leowyne guides the wagon onto the main road. I cannot force you to cease your travel, but the risk of fighting is rather high. I may very well have to join as ordered by my Liege....

"Pardon me, my Lady, for saying this. But as a Paladin, shouldn't you be focusing on helping the unfortunate? I recognize your loyalty to your Liege, and your desire to follow orders, but surely that cannot override the symbol of justice that you represent."

Staring, almost glaring, at Leowyne, Vesper creased her brows as she waited intently for a response.

~~~~~~~~
Time Skipping
~~~~~~~~

Vesper was still sulking as she followed behind Leowyne, this time, not because of a personal dislike for the Paladin, but for certain people of Gallica. How could they have thought and behaved that way was beyond her. While she had encountered several instances of stereotype against the people of Hipsania, she had never seen this behavior manifesting in people of authority. In that moment, she had believed her time was up. Then came Leowyne.

Looking at the Paladin gratefully, Vesper was nodding as the former spoke. In her eyes now, Leowyne was like a glowing star, her light of compassion and kindness bathing her being. All negative perceptions of her role in this political smorgasbord had been eliminated in that one instance her light shone through.

I'd much prefer it if you followed me Ms Kasid. I have an feeling of unease about and should anything happen, to you, i would feel guilty. I don't like the wave of human heads here. Who knows what ill natured people lurk and prey on the weak. Particularly given your appearance and presence.

As the wagon approached the castle, it begins to slow and stop. The two quickly dismount, climbing the steps to the door. The Paladin passes the guard a letter, who then opened the door just enough for one person to walk through. Leowyne was half in before she turned to face Vesper.

Well, beyond here is the Duke and the courts. They cannot allow those with zero relations or purpose in. If you intend to part, this will be farewell and i bid you safe journey.

She smiled warmly before turning to re-enter, leaving Vesper to contemplate her next course of action. Admittedly, after the previous encounter, she was even more hesitant to re-enter the Hipsanian lands without the Paladin's accompaniment. Furthermore, she was also inspired to follow the Paladin, at least for a while longer. While she was concerned with the situation back in the Skadi family, she figured her family will be able to handle it. After all, her parents were experienced diplomats in their own rights.