County of Lion's Reach

The County of Lion's Reach The County of Lion's Reach is a promising County that encompasses downtown Prospect (RL San Diego) and surrounding suburbs, extending chimerically from the shore of the Ocean of Pacifica across the cliffs and plains, though the Eastern and Western Woods, over the Snow Fangs and into the Shadow Sands desert. While the political climate has previously been unstable, the current Count Leras and Countess Ionae have made significant strides towards the prosperity of the County. The County is typically viewed as Traditionalist with Reformer leanings, though with the nobility both of House Fiona major concessions are made for the benefit of the commoners. Those of the Seelie and Unseelie Court are both welcome within the County, though it should be noted that the Escheat is strictly upheld and the population is generally more Seelie. The County is particularly promising for Kinain, be they prodigal or not, who wish to take part in Kithain society. This mandate from the Duchy has been faithfully held to in the County. Loyal Kinain are allowed to participate in all events, and even to hold positions in the Court. Required Reading Escheat As ruled by Count Leras and Countess Ionae, and blessed by their Graces. The traditions that make up the Escheat form the basic laws of Kithain society. Believed to have originated among those wise faeries who lived closest to the Dreaming, they were recorded after the Sundering as a way to ensure fae survival in the face of inexorable change. Passed down and enforced by the nobility, the Escheat's tenets are respected by both Seelie and Unseelie nobles (though each Court has variations on how it interprets each principle). The Escheat is not enforced by Glamour, but instead carries the force of law, tradition and custom. Occasionally the Dreaming works its own chimerical subtleties around the Escheat, making certain that its rules are kept or forcing those who break it to reap the consequences of their actions. Faerie Introductions While those that join a NPC-led region of the game are assumed to have introduced themselves, those that join Lion's Reach are not. Introductions may be initiated via missive (page/@mail suffices) or via contacting the Herald, Cody. At this point a formal audience will be had with the Count and Countess. It is common knowledge that it is standard for them to offer hospitality at Lion's Reach, and if applicable, offer work around Sideshow. The Count also is prone to asking what one's purpose, passions or interests are within the County. This is a good time for a character to broach their interests and perhaps a niche can be found within the County. It should be noted that for active, involved players that Court positions have been made to fill niche roles. The enhancement of roleplay opportunity is the idea, as well as swift involvement in the sphere. Feel free to page Dyson or Alala with questions! Faces of the County Airyana Eden Sir Fenwick ap Gwydion Ms. Aisling Foster Mr. Aleksander Kholodov Baroness Roxanne D'Arte ni Fiona Baron Lonne ap Fiona Baroness Liazaelyn Blackpool ni Fiona Lark Ms. Ophelia Matharnach Mr. Rodrigo Garcia Baroness Isolt ni Fiona Sir Galen ap Fiona Sir Alaric ap Scathach Cody Alexander Don Ferdinand de la Luna Baron Toal ap Eiluned The Scathach, Carolyn Kaoru Dame Erica ni Fiona County Court Bard: Ferdinand The bard serves as the lorekeeper and storyteller for not just the court but the whole of the County. Tales are collected from the whole of the fiefdom to be recited during certain festivities and particular events. These should bring pride to not only the nobles but to the commoners as well. Captain of the Guard: Sir Fenwick The Captain of the Guard is responsible for matters of the County defense. It is rumored that he, much like the Champion of the Lions, is highly sought out by students. These students are looking to train not only their martial skill but also learn of leadership and tactical skill. Issues concerning general safety to those of the County can be directed towards him. Champion of the Lions: Jotun The grand champion of the Tournament of the Lions, an annual Tournament held at Lion's Reach. The Tournament attracted artisans and warriors from far and wide to compete. The victor holds the title for the rest of the year and is renowned for their battle prowess. Quite often the Champion is sought out for training by eager students. In addition to this, rumor has it that the Champion is also a key element for defense of the County. Chancellor: None Chancellors serve as their lords' right hands, governing their lieges' lands in their absence and helping protect the fiefdoms from attack. Their intimate knowledge of the workings of their masters' freeholds and lands usually earns them the trust and respect of their lords. Few chancellors abuse this confidence; in return, many receive almost as much honor as their masters. County Seer: None The County Seer is a Kithain well versed in oath, lore, and chimera. Some of their duties overlap with the Personal Seer, but they have particular command during special faerie rituals. Guardian: Eden Every powerful throne has a shadowy figure that stands behind it to listen and ensure that which stands remains standing. The Shadow Guardian is obviously this. She listens and she ensures that whispers of secrets contain nothing of Faerie within it. Rumor and speculation abound concerning her other ways of protecting her territory. Herald: Cody Heralds serve as messengers, diplomats and couriers to their lords. This gives them a certain amount of diplomatic immunity when interacting with the courts of other nobles, so long as they pay the proper respect to their superiors in status. They are responsible for summoning up commoner levies when fiefdoms are endangered and bringing forward those who are newly arrived in a fiefdom for proper introduction. Personal Seer: Cody Skilled in magic and advising their lord in these particular matters, the Personal Seer is primarily concerned with magical defense and scrying. Reeve: Aisling Reeves act as official liasons between a noble and the commoners who dwell within that noble's fiefdom. They also fill the position of advocates for commoners, often appearing in court to press a commoner's claims or voice a complaint. Should objection be found in a ruling, one can approach the Reeve and the matter will be respectfully reconsidered by the nobility. The Reeve must be agreed upon by both the commoners as a whole as well as the nobility. Scribes: Samuel Scribes serve the vital function of transcribing not only court proceedings, but also of recording any memories members of the court may have of Arcadia or their past lives. This act is done in the old style, written on parchment and vellum with quill and ink in chimerical tomes bound in griffin or boar hide. Many scribes also illuminate their texts to create works of beauty and repositories for Glamour. Stewards: Kay (NPC) Stewards are responsible for a fiefdom's resources, organizing and governing their lord's assets. They control household finances, disperse chimerical and 'real' weapons and guard court treasures. Stewards also train and manage a household's staff. Thanes: None Thanes are commoner warriors who have sword loyalty to their lords. They are charged with hunting for Glamour for their masters. Some lords see the advantage of placing bands of thanes on the field of battle, since these warriors are often more effective in war than noble knights. Many thanes who organized the resistance during the Accordance War now serve the lords they once opposed. The nobility's acceptance of these rebel leaders helped smooth relations with the commoners. Often, a noble will find support among commoners in her realms as long as she treats her thanes with honor and respect. Troubadours: Baroness Liazaelyn Blackpool ni Fiona Troubadours are the musicians and performers of a noble's court. They also lead the court in the practice of courtly love, acting as chroniclers and go-betweens. Often troubadours are themselves involved in the amorous machinations of the nobles. They perform their own works, the ballads of the past and specifically commissioned songs in honor of their patrons or a paramour. Should a courtier be occupied, matters of concern may be addressed to the Count and Countess, or to a Baron or Baroness if needed. Freeholds Lion's Reach, County seat within the Barony of Astral Seas Rhapsody Freehold and Lost in Time Faerie Market. The Block Ebon Spire, The Barony of the Ebon Watchtower Player Run Plots Currently there are several Player Run Plots that are actively in progress. They are as follows. Interest in them should be sent via @mail to Dyson and Alala, even if it is full. We can list you as an alternate and if story/time permits perhaps weave you in. FrankenMonsters Plot summary: Someone is making horrific creations blending dead mundane animals with cybernetic parts and sewing chimera into them to give them unlife. These creatures have attacked fae and killed a few mundane children. Who's doing it? Why are they doing it? How will they be stopped? Status: 5/5 Slots - FULL Participants: Chrissy, Aleksander, Christian, Aisling, Sigrid Alternates: Artegal, Cody, Odran Raiders in the Market Plot Summary: Raiders are attacking the Lost in Time Marketplace. They've already made off with a small number of items of value and some of the caravans are starting to get nervous. Who are these chimerical raiders? Will they strike again? Where are they coming from? Status: 5/5 - FULL Participants: Artegal, Aleksander, Cody, Rodrigo, Odran Alternates: None Cursed Objects Plot Summary: Mythical treasures are popping up with crazy powers. Is it too good to be real? What are the consequences? Where are they coming from? Want to find one of them? Status: 5/5 - FULL Participants: Nienna, Christian, Cody, Rodrigo, Odran Alternates: Kenna Territories Noble fiefs are the territories that are held by nobility, while districts are those territories that are held by commoners. Lion's Reach is unique in that it grants territory to commoners, so long as they foster the Dream. The Count and Countess have made no qualms about their adamant support of fostering the Dream, no matter if it is via commoner or noble. Hard work is supported in full. To obtain a noble fief or a district, one must have a formal audience with the Count and Countess. During this meeting a proposal must be made concerning the area you wish to claim, how you will foster the dream, and what your goals are. A decision will be reached with this (and at times require staff permission depending on the extent of the plan). Note: This is also to produce roleplay. If one assumes control of a fief/district, it is assumed that it will be a vehicle for story. PrPs should be run for these areas. Noble Fiefs Barony of Astral Seas What used to be the County seat back when there was an actual Count (and Countess) ruling over the County. The Barony itself - which still includes The Sideshow, although the old Lion's Reach Freehold is no more - has since been taken over by Baron Lonne and Baroness Roxanne d'Arte of House Fiona. Barony of the Ebon Watchtower Small forested barony to the south east of Astral Seas, currently being overseen and protected by county forces. Barony of Divertimento Dithyramb Dance This is the barony held by Baroness Liazaelen Blackpool ni Fiona. It centers upon Robyn's School of Music and Dance. Seeking to continue to inspire those Dreams that have been planted here, she also looks to draw in new Dreamers through aiding underprivileged kids gain scholarships to the school through an endowment fund set up by Count Leras and Countess Ionae. There are a few rumors that come with laughs, that say some have shortened the name to the Barony of the Triple D's. Districts The Block This domain encompasses the Rhapsody nightclub and its rath, as well as the small bale held by the former Countess, Kelira. It also contains the Lost in Time Market. It is not currently 'held', nor, by ducal decree and enforced by the Count and Countess, will it ever be 'held' by any particular fae. A powerful and ancient bygone looks over the balefire. Flagrant abuses or threats to the balefire, however, are taken seriously and are dealt with by the Market guards that keep continual watch over the nearby hearth. The Ivory Clocktower This domain encompasses the Student Union at UC Prospect and is held by Aisling Foster. Inspiring Makers and bringing together Dreamers from all over campus are the main goals. Motleys The Temptations The Temptations (that's their name, really) is a motley/music group that has been frequently brought in for performances from the nearby County of the Emerald Dale. They're a small but talented bunch featuring satyr guitarist, troll on (chimerical!) keyboard, eshu lead singer, and of all things a sluagh on the drums. The sluagh naturally is sporting earplugs during all performances. Rumor has it that they are interested in permanently relocating to the County of Lion's Reach after an unfortunate incident where they acquired Count Belan's wrath. No one knows precisely what they did, only that Count Belan is most displeased.(Currently NPC. Contact Dyson/Alala if you wish to join it, or take it over.) Screaming Mimis Enter the Redcaps! While the Screaming Mimis have not actually settled in the County just yet, there has been an increase of Redcap activity lately. Reports of sightings have started to come in through the normal avenues, though no action has been taken given the fact that this all female Redcap Corby has done nothing to provoke the County inhabitants. Some are whispering that this means trouble. Those that speak to the Redcaps hear that they think this County is a good place to settle -- after all, didn't the nobility sanction a rescue attempt for a Redcap Childling? (Currently NPC. Contact Dyson/Alala if you wish to join it, or take it over.) Nearby Counties/Nobility (NPCs) Duchy of the Setting Sun The Duchy encompasses the County of Lion's Reach and surrounding Counties, along with its own territory. Duke Simon "Back Breaker" Cartwright ap Fiona Unseelie Satyr Duke of Setting Sun Duchess Dahlia Rengstorff La Fleur ni Gwydion Seelie Sidhe Duchess of Setting Sun Marquis Melyn Silver Tongue ap Eiluned (landless courtier) Seelie Sidhe Steward of Caer Buillemilis, voice of the Duke and Duchess, personal secretary of Their Graces. Countess Ymina Even Hands ni Gwydion (landless courtier) Seelie Sidhe Chancellor of Setting Sun, whose duties include sitting as judge of the lower court and acting as emissary as needed. Baron Igmarn ap Fiona (landless courtier) Seelie Troll Castellan of Setting Sun, Captain of the Castle, First General of the Duchy Armies. Mr. Daffyd Deanne Seelie Boggan, Majordomo of Caer Buillemilis, head of household staff. County of the Emerald Dale Count Belan ap Gwydion Seelie Sidhe Grump While Count Belan was formally neutral to the County of Lion's Reach, recent political events have raised his brows. While he did not support the returning Countess Kelira in her actions, this staunch Traditionalist Sidhe did point out some of the more valid of her claims. He also suggested that she spent such a length of time in the Dreaming that her bedlam was obvious, and perhaps she should have been given time before the untested Fiona were appointed in her stead. There is little secret that before the prior Countess Kelira left on her mighty quest that the two were courting. Speculation is that the loyalty of his heart will always rest with her. Baron Erol ap Fiona, Barony of Twisted Oaks Seelie Sidhe Grump. Confined to a wheel chair in both meins, due to an accident that took the life of his mortal lover and mother of a kinain child he now claims as his own. That child went missing, having been captured by a Roc. Former Squire Liazaelyn ni Fiona rescued the boy as her Fior Righ. Along the way she discovered the boy's true father, Arif Ingard ap Scathach, a solitary and grim sort and rival of the Baron. For her work in rescuing the boy and easing the conflict between the powerful men, she earned her Knighthood and title of 'Heart-Mender'. Baroness Abinaya ni Gwydion, Barony of Painted Stone Unseelie Sidhe Wilder. Not much is known about this Barony. Few seem to travel to or from the remote, forested land. Most gossips who have anything at all to say about the place only say that the Baroness is not one to be crossed, and those that say so, typically look a little nervous while saying so. County of the Reflective Dawn Count Cyldeach ap Fiona Seelie Sidhe Grump Count of the Reflective Dawn, a nearby County, Count Cyldeach is a political ally of the County of Lion's Reach. The alliance was formed through the nobility to aid in the construction of the marketplace to the benefit of his people. Resources and an overseer was extended in offering. Count Cyldeach is invited to many of the events and attends those that are not official holidays (which he celebrates in his own County). The Sidhe is interested in the potential revenue for his crafters in the marketplace as well as aiding his fellow Fiona, Count Leras and Countess Ionae. His County's martial force is lackluster but present, though they have no outstanding rivals. Baroness Merridwyn ni Dougal, Barony of the Gilded Wheel Seelie Sidhe Wilder A strong political ally of the County of Lion's Reach - or perhaps particularly Count Leras and Countess Ionae - is the Baroness Merridwyn that serves underneath Count Cyldeach. Her chimerical frogmen were lent for the construction of the Faerie Market and although there was some stop and go construction due to numerous events, she has been a faithful supporter in Count Leras and Countess Fiona, backing their causes. During the recent fiasco with the Gwydion, Kelira, she was attempting to rally all to lend their official support to the County of Lion's Reach. Baron Frankavel ap Eiluned, Barony of Mirrored Shores Seelie Sidhe Grump The Baron is a known member of the Crystal Circle and seems to be in the last days of his Grumphood. He's been in power since just after the Accordance War and has remained a Grump for several long decades. It's rumored that he's not actually going to fade but is just faking it in order to take a vacation from the endless petitioners who flock to his door in search of answers only he can offer. County of Ember Skies Countess Voughn ni Gwydion Unseelie Sidhe Wilder. The entire County has a somewhat shady reputation, not at all helped by the Countess' legendarily unpredictable temper. Not known as a particularly stable ally, the Countess, who is only 17 is known to be on politically thin ice with the Duke and Duchess, only her personal history as a fledge to the Duchess has kept her in power. Baron Mejaellin ap Gwydion, Barony of Weeping Leaves Unseelie Sidhe Wilder. A late Wilder at almost forty, rumor has it he has been a significant influence on the young Countess. Rumor mongers spread rumors that he secretly took her as a lover nearly two years ago, despite the vast difference in their ages, with the knowledge that it was she who would assume the County seat and not him. Some say it was a deliberate act against the Duchess and no small victory when he managed to coax Voughn to take the mantle of her Unseelie side. Baroness Varda ni Fiona, Barony of Cranesfell Unseelie Troll Wilder. A newly elevated Baroness, Varda took control of the Barony by Voughn's word when the last Seelie holdout, Lady Tamae ni Fiona was lost to Banality. Varda is a rough and ready sort. She is something of a local celebrity Strongwoman slash wrestler. Baron Leonweylln Far Eye ap Eiluned, Barony of Dusty Rivers Unseelie Sidhe Grump. Hardly a stabilizing presence, the mad old Far Eye is known to be one of the most paranoid fae on the west coast. He's drawn up his gates and rarely lets any of his people out. Only the need for provisions and to accept or receive tithes gets his rusty wheels to spin long enough to lower the draw bridge. Rogue's Gallery (NPCs) Kelira This former Countess of Radiant Hope (now known as County of Lion's Reach) left on a voyage into the Deep Dreaming, abandoning her County Seat (the Rhapsody Freehold/Faerie Market) in search of Faerie Immortality. She returned many years later with her army of chimera and her extreme viewpoints even more prominent. While initially she reclaimed the County, her proclamations of madness and ludicrous demands soon had her stripped of her title and Count Leras and Countess Ionae put in her place. This is when she decided to wage war on the Duchy, inhabiting the island of Fort Lodestone. Emily Viktor Very little is known about Emily Viktor at this point other than she was a Nocker prodigy that disappeared a number of years ago. A Boggan Grump more recently was chatting it up at the Sideshow and said he saw the oddest thing. He could have sworn that he saw the lost Emily and when he called out to her she ran into a drainage tunnel. Raoul Baron Raoul ap Ailil, the Knave of Spades, Herald of Fimbulwinter, and servant to the Court of Shadows is an infamous Sidhe who is the oathsworn enemy of Ferdinand. After Ferdinand's father crafted a brilliant blade for the Baron, he reneged on his payment and murdered him for sport instead. He is known for having an air of predatory brutishness about him (an oddity for a Sidhe and especially an Ailil) as well as an echo of frost and winter that follows in his wake. For some time it has been speculated that the Baron has hidden himself either in the County of Lion's Reach or in one of the neighboring ones, along with his band of mercenaries. The Baron has gone missing! No one has seen of nor heard from him since this past Samhain. His mercenaries, now leaderless, have scattered to the surrounding counties, afraid that they will be next to disappear. Still, some whisper that they will regroup soon, and wreak all manner of havoc on the counties in recompense for the disappearance of their liege. Father Daniels Made aware of Changelings during a rescue gone awry, the good father lost a hand to a redcap childling and ever since has made it his mission to rouse his congregation against this evil.