#oc: lucien aravae

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Chosen of the Sun | | dawn // twenty-six

| @maladi777 | @izayoichan

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ELION: You know, Moon Pet, I didn’t mention it before, but Lord Hayashi seemed oddly surprised to hear of those books he supposedly asked to borrow. Almost as if, he hadn’t. KYRIE: Oh? How peculiar. ELION: laughs If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you were up to something. KYRIE: Up to something? Don’t be silly. Though, now that you mention it, it’s just not proper for someone like you to be dining openly with the Duke and His Highness. I’m afraid you’ll have to wait outside. ELION: You can keep crafting plans to get rid of me, but you realize it only hurts you in the end. After all, no one’s trying to kill me. KYRIE: I’m aware. But if surviving means having no privacy, then I’m not sure it’s a life I want to live. MAID: Your Grace, Your Highness, do come in. The other guests are already waiting in the parlor. LUCIEN: Hello! INDRYR: …Good evening? ASTER: My, my, I didn’t know there would be minors here tonight! I hope this doesn’t mean the booze is off the menu. KYRIE: laughs MAID: My lords, the Duke should be down momentarily. Please make yourselves comfortable. KYRIE: Thank you. And could you see to it that the frightening looking elf outside is given his supper, too? MAID: Of course, Your Grace. ASTER: Well, aren’t you sparkly. LUCIEN: Thank you! KYRIE: Indryr, Aster, this is Prince Lucien. He’s visiting from the kingdom of Kera. LUCIEN: That’s right! Just for the festival! I can’t believe I’m already meeting so many of the Ten! You’re the Bard, aren’t you? ASTER: How’d you guess? Ha! Suppose I have that look about me, don’t I? What about my floral friend here? LUCIEN: Indryr, right? Of Irauygate? They say you’re a talented alchemist! INDRYR: Correct on all accounts. ASTER: Modest too, eh? ELDEWYN: Ah, good evening, everyone! Please excuse my lateness. I hope you’re all most comfortable. I must say, I am absolutely thrilled to host you all tonight. When His Grace offered, I was beside myself with excitement. It’s not every day someone gets a private meeting with the Chosen. I expect I’ll be the talk of the town! KYRIE: Thank you, my lord, for your hospitality. ELDEWYN: Of course, of course! Allow me to introduce myself. Duke Phineos Eldewyn, magistrate, and longtime supporter of the trials. I welcome you all to my most humble abode. KYRIE: Most gracious of you. This is Indryr and Aster, I’m sure you’ve heard much about them, already. ELDEWYN: Yes, yes! And so excited to learn more! Why don’t we all make our way to the dining room? Dinner will be served shortly! KYRIE: whispering Do you have it? INDRYR: Of course, Your Grace. Always. KYRIE: I appreciate you offering. Let’s hope we needn’t have use for it tonight. INDRYR: I couldn’t agree more. But if Plan A fails, then… ASTER: Plan A for Aster, boys! It’s all under control.

[simlit]

Chosen of the Sun | | dawn // thirteen

| @sani-sims | @keibea

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EVE: Oh, he’s coming over. KYRIE: He’s very excitable. EVE: Should I brace myself? LUCIEN: Your Grace! I’ve been so looking forward to seeing you! And my lady, it is an honor to meet you! This is only my second festival, well, I was too young to come before, but now mother and father have allowed me to come on my own! I hope to meet all ten of the Chosen, if I’m able! My name is Lucien! EVE: I’m Eve— LUCIEN: Yes, I’ve heard all about you! They say your magic is very strong! Congratulations on winning this past trial, how thrilling! How are you enjoying your time? Has it been very challenging? EVE: Well, I certainly would say so. Perhaps a rocky beginning, but after recent events, things do seem… a bit calmer. LUCIEN: Sometimes I think I’d like to be chosen myself. But then, I haven’t any magic, and I’m not a skilled fighter. I am exceptionally good at haikus, though, would you like to hear one— KYRIE: Maybe later, Your Highness. LUCIEN: Alright! That reminds me, I was a bit surprised to hear you were conducting the ceremony. You see, last Selenehelion Lady Alphanei conducted. She’s very lovely, have you met her? EVE: O-Oh, no, I haven’t— LUCIEN: She’s just wonderful! Exceptionally kind. I’ve just arrived and was hoping that I could see her. I don’t mean to be troublesome, but maybe you could arrange a meeting, Your Grace? KYRIE: I… Um, unfortunately that won’t be… I mean, Al is away at the moment. LUCIEN: Away? Like on a trip? KYRIE: Yes. A trip. She went to visit with the Wise Ones, so I’ve taken over in her absence. LUCIEN: What a pity! Perhaps she’ll return before I leave the city. I hope so! I mean to stay until the end of the trials! I’d love to meet with the other nine, oh… but I expect that’s too much to ask. Maybe just one or two more? KYRIE: Suppose I could introduce you to Åse. She’s just over there. LUCIEN: Ah, yes! The Valkyrie! Exciting! Excuse me, Your Grace, My Lady! EVE: You weren’t kidding. He is… KYRIE: Energetic. EVE: Yes. But he does seem kind, even if a bit innocent. Can’t really fault him for that… Suppose I’ve been very naïve myself, at times. KYRIE: I told you, you see the best in people, and that’s not a bad thing. EVE: Maybe not, but then, I certainly regret giving some people the benefit of the doubt. KYRIE: Prince Lucien is young. He has a lot of growing up to do. But at least for now, maybe it’s alright for him to enjoy a thing in innocence, even if it’s nothing of the sort. EVE: You couldn’t tell him the truth about your sister. KYRIE: Even if I wanted to, if word got out that Alphanei was missing, it would cause a great stir. She’s alive, so, I suppose that’s what really matters. EVE: Alive? How do you know? ÅSE: OF COURSE YOU COME SEE ME! I AM BEST OF CHOSEN! YES IT IS VERY EXCITING! KYRIE: Honestly, they’re a match made in heaven. EVE: You’re not wrong. Though, we shouldn’t let him inflate her ego too much more. If her head gets any bigger, she might just fly away. KYRIE: laughs You’ve changed, you know. EVE: Have I? KYRIE: It’s a good change. You seem more at ease. EVE: Comfortable, perhaps. KYRIE: I’m glad.  

[simlit]

Chosen of the Sun | | dawn // thirty-three

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LUCIEN: What happened back there? KYRIE: No need to worry, Your Highness. ELION: Yes. What did happen back there? KYRIE: It’s late. Let’s get everyone safely back to their rooms. KYRIE: Well, good night dear shadow. It’s been a long day, I— ELION: laughs Oh no. You’re not getting off that easy. KYRIE: You have no right to be in here. ELION: Shut up, Pet. I have every right. Your free will exists entirely on my generosity. Your darling mother gave me free reign over you, and for a moment, I could nearly feign respect. But if you show none to me, I will return in kind. KYRIE: I won’t have to tell you anything and you know it. ELION: You can try and puppet me away all you like. Do you think, in my line of work, I have not been trained to resist such things? Shall we test the strength of your magic, my lord? KYRIE: …No. ELION: Right. I can already see the strain in your eyes. I’m still willing to be your friend, unless you insist we be otherwise. So do tell me, Your Grace. What little schemes have you been plotting? KYRIE: If I’m honest with you… You swear you’ll keep this between us? ELION: It’ll be our little secret.

[simlit]

Chosen of the Sun | | dawn // nineteen

| @sani-sims

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EDELWYN: Already? What a pity. KYRIE: Suppose I could introduce to some of the others at a later date? EDELWYN: Oh, really? Well, that would be grand! Why don’t you come over to my manor tomorrow night. I’ll prepare something! LUCIEN: Is there going to be another party? EDELWYN: Yes, yes, why don’t you come as well, Your Highness. This will be quite the spectacle. Of course, if it’s all alright, Your Grace? KYRIE: Certainly. Tomorrow evening, then? EDELWYN: Tomorrow EVE: Well, that was easy enough. He seems to do most the talking on his own. Not the most interesting specimen, but perhaps the perfect candidate for your plans. KYRIE: Mm. Let’s hope. EVE: Have you someone in mind already to go? KYRIE: I do. I’ll spare you anymore time with the Duke. As you said, he’s not the most interesting. EVE: That is a great mercy. KYRIE: Speaking of mercies… our night is coming to a close. Things are winding down already, I’m sure we could get away without too many noticing. EVE: And leave Åse? KYRIE: She seems perfectly happy to babysit. Come on, Eve, let me enjoy a night without my shadow. EVE: Oh, very well. EVE: You never told me why he’s really here. KYRIE: I thought it’d be obvious. If it was my choice at all, he wouldn’t be. But the High Priestess cares little about what I want. And maybe she’s right to override my wishes. After all, things aren’t safe. EVE: And he is going to ensure your safety? You’re better off with any of us. KYRIE: A point I’d previously made myself. But, well, I exhausted my goodwill with her. That’s my fault. EVE: That woman wouldn’t know the right thing to do if it smacked her in the face. And you shouldn’t take on any guilt because of it. I won’t believe she’s trying to protect you out of love. KYRIE: No, I know that… EVE: sighs I’m sorry, Kyrie. KYRIE: Don’t be. EVE: You said your sister is alive. Then, you still have family. KYRIE: Yes, maybe… EVE: Maybe? KYRIE: I don’t know. I don’t want to think about that, now. EVE: Alright, then, we won’t. EVE: It’s beautiful out here. KYRIE: Mm. The city has its bright spots. I’ve gotten to see a good few of them this passed month. EVE: You didn’t get out much before? KYRIE: No. Though, maybe that’s my fault, too. Maybe I’ve been too complacent with my cage. I guess nearly dying changes your perspective. Even if I did choose that path. No, especially because of it. EVE: You want something different? KYRIE: I’m starting to. EVE: I’m glad. You shouldn’t lay down and let them dictate your life for you. KYRIE: I never wanted that. I never wanted to be so… indifferent to everything. I suppose I just thought there wasn’t anything I could do. I didn’t see a way out. Maybe I still don’t. But I’ve been asking myself if I might ever find my way to something better, then, what would “something better” really look like? EVE: And have you come up with any answers, yet? KYRIE: A few. Perhaps, most importantly, I realized I don’t want to spend my life alone. EVE: No? KYRIE: I don’t know. Being around the ten of you… those of you who have, for whatever strange reason, chosen to engage with me willingly. It’s different. And it’s nice. I wish I’d had more of it, before. But I know I don’t want to lose it going forward. I suppose, if we all survive this, many of you will move on, return home… Admittedly, it does make me… sad. Maybe more frightening is the idea I might have to learn to do this all over again, but on my own. Without the Moon EVE: I can’t speak for the others, but it’s not strange at all that someone would enjoy your company. I imagine it will be very difficult to go back home after everything. But then… what’s the rush? If you wanted to spend more time with someone, whoever it might be, then maybe you need only ask? KYRIE: Would you stay, Eve? EVE: If you’d like me to. KYRIE: Hm. Then suppose I shouldn’t ask just yet. There’s still chips left to fall. Maybe in the end, you’ll find I’m not the person you thought I was after all. EVE: Kyrie? KYRIE: Not tonight. Maybe some other day I’ll have the courage to tarnish that good image you have of me.

[simlit]

Chosen of the Sun | | dawn // twenty-nine

| @izayoichan | @maladi777

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ASTER: So then I said, what do you mean it doesn’t fit? An ogre’s only got three toes! ELDEWYN: You have such a gift for storytelling! Truly charming! ASTER: Just wait till you hear me sing! LUCIEN: Oh, can we?! ASTER: Most certainly! KYRIE: clears throat ASTER: Ah, right, right. Maybe after dinner! And I expect there’s still dessert to be had. ELDEWYN: Of course! What sort of dinner party would it be with no dessert? ASTER: And more wine! ELDEWYN: It sweetens the conversation! INDRYR: I’m afraid you’ll put our dear bard into an early grave. ASTER: Don’t listen to him, my good sir. I’m very well practiced. ELDEWYN: Ahaha, but I wouldn’t want to dampen your chances in the games. It’s important to stay focused, you know. When is the next trial, Your Grace? KYRIE: Just three days from now, my lord. ELDEWYN: Very good. Not to rush you, of course. I expect it’s been quite the challenge conducting for the first time. I was curious how you might go about it. Your sister took to it like bees on honey. A profoundly optimistic and delightful maiden, Her Grace is. A shame she’s away this year. INDRYR: I would think someone so gentle might be ill-suited to run the trials. Considering the combative nature of them. ELDEWYN: Well, certainly the trials have been more brutish in the past… But that’s hardly the case now, isn’t that right, Your Highness? LUCIEN: My mother lobbied for a more humanitarian structure. I think we can all agree the trials are more enjoyable without any bloodshed. ELDEWYN: It’s true the games are still enjoyable, but there was something to be said about such high stakes. These past few ceremonies haven’t had the same sort of enthusiasm. At least, one might expect the Chosen to be far more invested when their lives depend on it! But that’s all in the past now. INDRYR: You sound almost nostalgic. ELDEWYN: Oh, think nothing of it. Those were different times. ASTER: Well lucky us we came when we did, hm? LUCIEN: Bloodsport was abolished before I was even born! ELDEWYN: Yes, nearly twenty years ago, I think it was. There was some dreadful business around then, and the Keran Queen— Lucien’s sweet mother— threatened to withdraw her financial support if the Church did not reform. After decades of shouting about it, they finally banned it once and for all! INDRYR: Then, there were others that wished the rules changed? ELDEWYN: Oh yes, there were some here at home that made such a fuss, but it was tradition, you know. ASTER: Ah, the wine is just delicious, my lord! ELDEWYN: I’m so glad you appreciate it! One of my favorites. INDRYR: That dreadful business you mentioned… ASTER: I’m sure that’s a story! ELDEWYN: Eh… yes, well… It was unfortunate. ASTER: Come now, my lord, we’re all shivering in anticipation! Good wine deserves a good story. A real sordid tale, eh?

[simlit]

Chosen of the Sun | | dawn // twelve

| @sani-sims

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EVE: Are you looking for someone? KYRIE: No one in particular… Not yet, anyways. EVE: My, who is that? KYRIE: That is Prince Lucien of House Aravae. EVE: Aravae? KYRIE: The Aravae, of the Kingdom of Kera, are close allies and supporters of Eveyda going back centuries. Every Selenehelion they offer enormous financial investment and gifts for the festivities. Prince Lucien is their youngest son. EVE: Kera… They border this country to the east? KYRIE: That’s right. Their riches are in jewels. The wealth of Kera far surpasses our own. Lucky for us, I suppose, they’re a passive people. It was their support that persuaded the church to disallow bloodshed in the trial. EVE: Yes, but how successful have they been? KYRIE: Considering the ten of you are still alive… Quite.

[simlit]

Chosen of the Sun | | dawn // thirty-two

| @maladi777 | @izayoichan

POLL RESULTS | The audience vote ties 50/50. The poll is decided by a coinflip resulting in favor of using the scroll. Indryr's [TRUTH SCROLL] is depleted and will no longer be available for future use.

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INDRYR: If he knows anything more, it may be to our benefit to try. We don’t know when we’ll get the opportunity to confront someone like him again. KYRIE: I guess you’re right, but… Well, let’s get it over with, then. KYRIE: My lord, might we speak to you a moment? ELDEWYN: Mm? Ah, of course! Help yourself to the wine in the meantime, Master Bard! ASTER: Way ahead of you! ELDEWYN: Yes, Your Grace? How might I help you? KYRIE: Indryr. ELDEWYN: What is that? What are you doing—?! INDRYR: You know more about Castien than you’re letting on. ELDEWYN: Why on earth do you care so much about him? What is this nonsense? Help! Help! KYRIE: Please, my lord, don’t— ELDEWYN: In here, help me at once— KYRIE: Stop shouting. INDRYR: Your Grace… ELDEWYN: What… are you doing… to me… KYRIE: I didn’t want it to have to come to this. We’re not trying to hurt you. We just need information. Indryr, please proceed. INDRYR: I… Uh… right. Castien Thallan, who was he really? ELDEWYN: I told you what I know! I’m just a magistrate! I remember rumors swirling at the time that Castien was the illegitimate child of some noble… They said he had claim to a great fortune and that is why he’d come up from the south to stir trouble, but I can’t tell you what I don’t know! INDRYR: The scroll will make sure of that. Then, his followers believed him to be of noble bloodline? ELDEWYN: I suppose they did, how should I know what they thought? I never met them! They were rowdy and destructive! Made noise and broke things wherever they went! They had a clear disdain for authority. We of the aristocracy knew to steer clear. INDRYR: And after Castien’s death? What happened to them? ELDEWYN: The few that remained became outspoken protesters of the trials. But back then there was a movement to have the tradition done away with. They weren’t the only ones to speak out. Once the rules were altered, it got quiet and I haven’t heard a thing about it since! KYRIE: You said Castien’s involvement in the trials was predetermined. ELDEWYN: There were whispers that the priest before you— Lord Ilduin— had been bribed by Castien’s father. It’s all hearsay. I said I don’t know. KYRIE: Then he doesn’t. It’s all speculation. ELDEWYN: Release me at once! KYRIE: Very well. But you will speak nothing of this. You will tell no one we were here or what we’ve asked of you. ELDEWYN: Yes, Your Grace. ELDWYN: Now if you would all kindly get out of my home. Now! KYRIE: Aster, Lucien, let’s go. ASTER: Hm? Has it all gone tails up then? LUCIEN: We heard yelling… KYRIE: Please just gather your things. We’re leaving. KYRIE: wincing INDRYR: Your Grace… you’re unwell. KYRIE: I’m fine. INDRYR: You… have the power to compel. KYRIE: And it’s no easy feat. It takes a heavy toll to force your will on another. INDRYR: I expect it is quite the burden… One might find you quite the formidable foe. KYRIE: Trust me, Indryr, if I’d ever used my powers on any of you, you’d know of it. It’s not something one can hide. A mind is very aware when it loses control. Duke Eldewyn will only submit so long as I channel the spell. But there was no other way. If he tells anyone what we’ve done… KYRIE: I- Indryr? I… Please— INDRYR: Don’t worry, Your Grace. Your secret is safe with me.  

[simlit]

Chosen of the Sun | | dawn // twenty-five

| @amuhav

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TAYUIN: You’ve got a lot of strange new friends. KYRIE: Ah… ha… LUCIEN: Oh! Another Chosen! You’re the faerie, mm, Tayuin, right? TAYUIN: So I am. And you are…? LUCIEN: Lucien Aravae, Prince of Kera! But that’s not important! Oh, I’m so excited to meet you! You’re even smaller in person! TAYUIN: Eh— KYRIE: Lucien. LUCIEN: Huh? Oh! I didn’t mean it as an insult! You’re really cute! Please don’t think me rude. TAYUIN: Of course not. I’m happy to meet you, too, Your Highness. You must be a big fan of the festival? LUCIEN: Yes! Ever since I was little! I’ve heard all the stories! This is my first time getting to meet the Chosen, myself. Everyone speaks highly of you! Do you think you’ll win? TAYUIN: Ah, I doubt that very much. But it’s not important if I win or if I don’t. I’m just grateful to be involved. LUCIEN: Wow! KYRIE: Seems you’ve gained a new fan. TAYUIN: I’m honored. LUCIEN: Oh! Are you coming to the dinner tonight? TAYUIN: Dinner? KYRIE: I’m afraid not, Your Highness. But there will be others for you to meet tonight. LUCIEN: Really? This is so exciting! Well, maybe I’ll see you again? I hope so! TAYUIN: Sure, if you’d like. LUCIEN: Bye now! TAYUIN: Bye… KYRIE: That’s my cue. Do you think you’ll recover alright? TAYUIN: I’m fine… KYRIE: Mm. I’ll see you later, then. TAYUIN: Yeah. KYRIE: Tay? TAYUIN: Huh? KYRIE: I mean it. TAYUIN: Right. KYRIE: Your Highness, don’t wander off. We’ll go together. ELION: Hmm.

[simlit]

Chosen of the Sun | | dawn // thirty-one

| @maladi777 | @izayoichan

INTERACTIVE POLL | Should Indryr use his [TRUTH SCROLL] on Duke Eldewyn? Voting to use the scroll will provide more information about the past history of the trials and those involved, however, there may be consequences from using such magic. Choose wisely. Vote now!

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INDRYR: A fascinating idea. There is a great deal of faith placed in lunar priests. Suppose if they should misdirect and say they have received visions they have not… No one would be any the wiser. ASTER: Now that I think of it, how does that whole heaven-to-earth pipeline work, anyhow? KYRIE: Quite ambiguously. Around the time of the Selenehelion, we begin receiving hazy visions. For my sister and I, it was always somewhat complicated. In general, there is only ever one lunar priest of age at any given time. However, because Alphanei and I were twins, our visions were often shared. It was suggested, once, that we conduct together, but I declined. Alphanei’s emotional investment in leading the ceremony seemed to strengthen her ties with the moon. My visions lessened, and hers became stronger. Only now that I’m leading myself do I feel an innate sense of connection to the Chosen. You were all strangers when I brought you here— I’d never heard nor met any of you before. But even before seeing you in the flesh, I felt as if we had known each other for years. INDRYR: And is there some consequence to you for not following the Moon’s vague instruction? KYRIE: I admit, I don’t know. A great part of me feels compelled. It’s hard to explain. Even when I sat aside and let my sister operate on her own, I felt overwhelmingly as if I was doing something wrong. I guess this connection we have, it’s something we’re born with, and impossible to eradicate. That being said, if we should act against that feeling… By that I mean, could a lunar priest have lied about the selected Ten? Yes. I think he could. LUCIEN: But wouldn’t that upset the goddess? KYRIE: Maybe. The truth is, I don’t hear her anymore than you. Divine sensation is just that: Sensation. If she were to punish me for going against her wishes, I can’t imagine what that might look like. Only, in our hearts, I suppose it would feel a bit like betraying someone… something… we love deeply. It would feel immoral. But… there’s nothing impossible about sinning. ELDEWYN: Fascinating, indeed. I never thought about it… Interesting creatures lunar priests! KYRIE: We’re not animals— ASTER: Well! How about that specialty brew you’ve been saving? ELDEWYN: Ah, yes! Let us retire to the parlor. We’ll be more comfortable there. KYRIE: If you don’t mind, I just need to step out a moment… ELDEWYN: Oh, of course, Your Grace. INDRYR: Are you feeling well, Your Grace? KYRIE: Yeah, it’s… I’m fine. INDRYR: Forgive my saying so, but you seem somewhat put-off. KYRIE: It’s alright. I don’t… mind. KYRIE: I think sometimes I feel a bit like a circus act… Maybe I am. INDRYR: Your gifts are unique. And specialness is strange, but not all of us think so shallowly. I understand perfectly well how it feels to be the odd piece out, but you’re no less part of the puzzle. You’ll find your place to fit, and it won’t be here with people like that. KYRIE: Thank you, Indryr, for saying so. INDRYR: No need to thank me. It’s simply what’s true. The Duke has a very… interesting perception. I wondered what sort of society might support the trials in their former iteration. Meeting him, well, it becomes clearer to me. KYRIE: I think there’d be more than a few happy to see the tradition return to the way it was. A sick sense of excitement… It doesn’t matter. I guess I’m more bothered by the idea that my predecessor might have been involved in what happened twenty years ago. You were right. If this was a cover up, the priest heading the ceremony must have allowed for it. INDRYR: I don’t think we can deny it anymore, Your Grace. KYRIE: No, but I do think there’s more to the story. Whether or not the Duke knows, is another question entirely. INDRYR: We could use the scroll? KYRIE: Yes, but it’s not without its risks. I suppose then we must decide… is it worth trying, regardless of the consequences?

[simlit]

Chosen of the Sun | | dawn // twenty-seven

| @maladi777 | @izayoichan

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ELDEWYN: Well now, this is quite quaint, indeed! Tell me, how do you find the games thus far? INDRYR: Certainly trying. ASTER: I’ll say! I’ve been nearly mauled to death by giant serpents, thrown off bridges, and murdered by a Necro— KYRIE: Aster! Is one of our more resourceful competitors. ELDEWYN: Ah, yes, that’s right. Half-elf is it? Pity. Those without magic often struggle during trials. Now that I think of it, I can’t remember a winner that wasn’t attune to the arcane… INDRYR: An interesting point. One must wonder if the games favor those with magic, why the Moon selects those unafflicted. ASTER: The answer is obvious, of course! It’s our boundless charm and sage wisdom! LUCIEN: giggles INDRYR: Sage wisdom, you say? KYRIE: It isn’t true that there have been no past winners who weren’t magic users. ELDEWYN: Quite right, quite right you are, Your Grace. There have been ample warriors of all sorts who have won in the past. I find my memory fails me in my old age. ASTER: You ought to have more wine, my lord! Nothing helps loosen my memory like a few glasses of savory spirits! INDRYR: I think that is the opposite of the solution… ELDEWYN: Ahaha! I like your style, Master Bard. Well, this is a celebratory affair, after all. I’ll have the maids bring in some special brews I’ve had stowed away for just the occasion. I’m a bit of a collector, you know. ASTER: And I’m a connoisseur! KYRIE: whispers They’re getting on famously. INDRYR: Perhaps Your Grace chose too well. KYRIE: Ah…

[simlit]

Chosen of the Sun | | dawn // seventeen

| @keibea | @sani-sims

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ÅSE: Am thirsty! Why is wine gone? LUICIEN: Oh! I’ll get you some more, my lady! ÅSE: Ah! Good boy! ELION: mumbling What did I sign up for? ÅSE: Tell me, Little Ferret! You are liking children? ELION: Oh yes. What a joy they are. ÅSE: Oh? Is good! You are also liking house in mountain? Hmm… But I am thinking you are better suited elsewise. You are into monster hunters? (incapable of detecting sarcasm) ELION: You’re speaking of that foul-mouthed vixen from yesterday? ÅSE: Indeed! I will introduce you. You will need my help. She will not be easy to seduce! ELION: Why, do indulge me, my lady. KYRIE: Ah, Eve, might I ask you a favor? EVE: Hm? KYRIE: That elf there. He’s Duke Eldewyn. Comes from a long line of well-to-do aristocrats, but his lust for drink has lost him a bit of favor in recent years. He’d certainly enjoy meeting one of the Chosen. EVE: Why do I get the feeling you have some ulterior motive for asking? KYRIE: Well, I’m looking to arrange a private dinner with the Duke. I think he might be a useful source of… information. EVE: Information? KYRIE: I’ve a keen interest in knowing more about past ceremonies. Talking to someone who not only lived through them, but has a close relationship to the Crown is crucial. But I must be wary not to make my inquiries obvious. EVE: You’re using the Chosen as a ruse to find out what happened? KYRIE: It may be risky to do otherwise. A month ago, I might have said my position grants me some level of protection. But given all that’s happened, I find that to be anything but the truth. Things have gotten particularly… EVE: Dangerous. KYRIE: Mm. EVE: Alright. Let’s go. KYRIE: Duke Eldewyn, how nice to see you. ELDEWYN: Ah! Your Grace, I was thinking of seeking you out myself. But then, you and your Chosen are quite the hot commodity tonight! And indeed, I’d love an introduction! KYRIE: This is Eve, our resident healer. But she’s an all around outstanding mage. EVE: Nice to meet you, my lord. ELDEWYN: Ah, that’s right, this is your second win in the trials, yes? You’re doing very well for yourself! I’d enjoy to hear more of your experience in the games! EVE: Where do I begin?

[simlit]

Chosen of the Sun | | dawn // twenty-four

| @amuhav

next / previous / beginning

KYRIE: Tay! TAYUIN: Oh… KYRIE: Please, wait here. KYRIE: You could try to make it less obvious that you’re avoiding me. TAYUIN: I’m not avoiding you. KYRIE: I was really hoping we were passed the blatantly lying phase. TAYUIN: Okay. I’m avoiding you. KYRIE: I got that. TAYUIN: Not because I hate you. KYRIE: So you’ve said. I’d hoped you’d come to me on your own, but I guess I couldn’t give you enough time. If you don’t want to talk to me about what happened with the witch, I won’t force you to. That’s not why I’m here. TAYUIN: It’s not? KYRIE: I’m afraid I have to ask you for another favor. I expect I’m racking up quite a debt, but I don’t know who better than you to do this. So, please, I’m sorry, but hear me out? TAYUIN: Of course. KYRIE: The High Priestess told me there’d been a letter from my sister, Alphanei. I suppose I don’t have to explain to you what’s been going on, observant as you are. But… it’s the first contact we’ve had with her since her disappearance. Elora tells me Al’s alive but I know she’s holding something back. If I could just read what Al wrote in that letter, I’d know the truth. Just one problem. TAYUIN: They won’t let you see it. KYRIE: Right. TAYUIN: They really do gatekeep your entire life. KYRIE: An understatement. TAYUIN: The letter… You want me to steal it for you. KYRIE: That sort of thing does fall in your area of expertise, doesn’t it? TAYUIN: Mm. I can do it. KYRIE: I can pay you— TAYUIN: Pay me? Are you serious? KYRIE: It’s a risky job. TAYUIN: I’ve managed worse. Anyways, if I get caught, it’ll be on you, not me. We both know that. KYRIE: I’m willing to bear that consequence. TAYUIN: You always are. I told you not to be so reckless with yourself. KYRIE: I’m trying. That’s why I came to you. TAYUIN: Right… I’ll do it. KYRIE: Are you sure? I won’t hold it against you if you say no. TAYUIN: I’ll get the letter. That’s a promise. KYRIE: Tay, I— LUCIEN: Your Grace! KYRIE: Ah. Time’s up, I guess.

[simlit]

Chosen of the Sun | | dawn // thirty

| @izayoichan | @maladi777

ABILITY CHECK | CHARISMA Aster is assigned a base stat of 10 charisma, with a bonus of 5. Question #1 requires a roll of at least 15. Question #2 requires a roll of at least 16. Question #3 requires a roll of at least 18.  Question #4 requires a roll of at least 18.  Question #5 requires a roll of at least 20. 

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LUCIEN: Then… someone died? ELDEWYN: Indeed, someone did. And none of the remaining nine claimed responsibility. Made things quite interesting for spectators. There was some rumors that perhaps even the Chosen of the Sun might have been the killer. INDRYR: Surely the goddess of the moon would not select a murderer as her chosen. ELDEWYN: Ah, but it is sometimes the case. After all, back then, anything was acceptable. Even had they admitted their deed, they would not have been punished. LUCIEN: How awful… INDRYR: And who was the victim? ELDEWYN: Mm, the last to lose their life in the moon trials… What was it… ah yes… Castien, was his name. Castien Thallan. KYRIE: Who was he? ELDEWYN: A rabblerouser from the south. He used to get into all sorts of trouble. I remember before he was chosen, he and his little gang would stir up the city, made people restless. The guard was always after him for one thing or another, but never could hold him long. Imagine our shock when it was announced he'd been picked. After that, he was untouchable of course. Ironic, you ask me. KYRIE: He was just a delinquent, then? ELDEWYN: Yes, you could say so. A thorn in the capital’s side, really. But clearly honorable enough for the Moon to choose him. ASTER: A toast! To a veritable troublemaker! I can certainly relate. After all, they only had to drag me out of jail right to the steps of the church! ELDEWYN: Ha! That’s right! I’ll say, there was quite the gossip about it in town! INDRYR: Whatever were you arrested for, anyways? ASTER: Oh, you know, a little scuffle… bit of a bar brawl if I’m honest. I’m not much of a fighter, but tell that to my tongue! INDRYR: How curious that no one ever admitted to the deed. Are they certain he didn’t die to the elements? ELDEWYN: To be frank, there was a great deal of speculation about it, but seeing as how no one but then Ten were inside, there’s really no way of knowing. Afterwards, he was given over to the King’s clerics and prepared for burial. We honor the fallen, of course. They’re still Chosen, even in death. But he had no kin to speak of, and no one after came to claim him that wasn’t one of his fellow troublemakers. KYRIE: Whatever happened to them? ELDEWYN: I’m certain I don’t know. Went on their way, or grew up, I suppose! INDRYR: Perhaps there was someone else in the labyrinth? ELDEWYN: Hm? What do you mean by that? INDRYR: You said there were many dangers within the maze, it could be that he encountered someone there. Someone not Chosen? ELDEWYN: The labyrinth is located on the outskirts of the city. During the trial the entrances are heavily guarded, and very few people know the way through. Even if someone could get passed the blockades, they’d be utterly lost! INDRYR: Then, it doesn’t seem particularly efficient that anyone would plan to use the trial as a cover for murder. Unless… LUCIEN: Why would anyone think to do that? ASTER: Quite conspiratorial there, Indryr! And who doesn’t love a good conspiracy theory? Mm? I’m sure there’s a secret dragon under the castle waiting to make snacks of us all. More wine, my lord? ELDEWYN: Of course, of course! KYRIE: Surely you don’t think there was outside involvement? INDRYR: I’m only speculating. KYRIE: I’m certain there’s no evidence of that. Isn’t that right, my lord? ELDEWYN: Well, you know, he’s not the first to say so. There were rumors at the time that perhaps Castien’s involvement in the trials had been predetermined. KYRIE: Predetermined? ELDEWYN: They said he was selected deliberately. At request of… It’s all hearsay, anyways. LUCIEN: But the Chosen are selected by divine right! Lunar Priests get their orders directly from the goddess of the moon! Right, Your Grace? KYRIE: Uh— ELDEWYN: Of course, Your Highness. It is silly gossip, nothing more. Some people believed the presiding priest was espousing false information. But the trials were successful as every year before. There’s no reason to think he was lying about Castien being one of the true Chosen Ten. But people will get all sorts of ideas if given even a shred of mystery.