[F]

Father,

Thou were present at my Mass this eve, so I shalt be brief. I submit this notice in application of completion of my trial of Spirituality. May our bonds with our Yewish Brothers never falter, and His light be spread ever further through Nujel'm and Vesper.







Initiate

http://cove.sugeworld.com/forum/index.php?topic=16423.0

[B]

Brothers and Sisters,

I have promising matters to report resulting from the Vesperian peace treaty negotiated by Cove last night. I suggest we forego our usual martial training to attend to these broader matters. Let us meet at 9 this evening in the Campaign Chamber.






Initiate

A diary entry

This eve' only the Squires did arrive for training. This was a good opportunity to assess their progression. It is clear that they hath come far and learned much. They shalt no doubt soon be fierce defenders of Avatarianism. Avatar hath blessed us with those of able body, mind and will. I hope that the Preceptor formally acknowledges this soon, for they doth chafe at their institutional limitation as Squires.

I took them to simulate the dangers of fighting underground, and to grow accustomed to operating in the dark when our enemies prefer it so.




I took them through basic survival and offensive tactics. They managed well.





Joachim had the edge by a little, but Mordred was not far behind. With a bit of practice and exposure to combat, he will become a deadly warrior: for he is strong, but lacks experience. Joachim on the other hand was tactically supreme, but with a weaker mace arm. I suppose this shows the power of experience. Balancing Mordred's holy anger in combat was a useful outcome.




I set them both on myself. At first, it was easy to splinter them, but they quickly learned to operate as a duo. This will need further work. Once they learn to coordinate more fluidly, as they shall, I will not be able to stand against both of them. This is well.



We returned to discuss any stumbling blocks in their studies. I helped to illuminate the Order's theological position on the false virtue.




Though the beautiful stained glass windows and grandness of our new home did enhance our studies, I was more strongly reminded that the future of the Order doth not dwell in bricks and mortar, nor any material gain, but in the strength of a continuing youth. Though I was once at the start of this chain, I now find myself in the middle. With such promise for the Order anew, I fear no evil that may befall us.

Ostendit tela partier. Aumen.

[P]

Preceptor,

In accordance with the holy trials set by thee, I returned this eve to the Yewish Crypts. For while the Arisen do evade us broadly, I hath seen them attend this place for their nefarious purposes.




Upon forcing entry, I found the normally placid Undead unusually organised and focus. No doubt the work of a necromancer was afoot. Sure enough, I found fresh blood and bodies strewn about no doubt for the purposes of some foul ritual.




Though the creature did evade my pursuit for a time, the trail of bones and blood led to it.





It did warn of dark tidings. But I know that we shalt meet whatever terror they bring and put it to Justice. I sensed fear in its hissing, for it knows we wield His light.





Combat was joined, for there are no words to share with such things.



Through His grace, victory was held. The fiend defeated for now, but it shall return, as they always do.





I returned to the Cathedral to pray. I hereby conclude my report.




Initiate

Miss Masteen,

The beauty of nature is the beauty of Avatar. If one looks closely and applies the bounty of human reason he hath provided us with, one can observe many divine laws reflected in nature.

You may provide thy offering at thy availability where thy services shall be rewarded.

Initiate Danaeyl

 

Good Citizens of Cove,

The Order seeks those of able body and mind and good moral standing to undertake employment. Should thee hath any skill you think could be put to use well in our service, thou mayst contact us (by messenger, attendance post-training or post-mass, or as we pass by) with thy specific skills and we can discuss them. As for our current needs, we advertise the following:

- An armourer or blacksmith to attend us post-training once a week on Monday (or sometimes Thursday) to provide the repairs required after rigorous battle: 5 shillings per visit.
(OOC - this may always not be technically necessary, but you will always be paid for the rp of repairs, in any case).

- The construction of a good number of additional pews that may be used for open air Mass: 10 shillings as a one off.

- The construction of simple plain bedding and drawers/cabinets. Ten beds and drawers required. 15 shillings as a one off.

- The construction and supply of any other furniture or decoration that thou mayst deem useful in thy knowledge as a craftsman for the Cathedral or Chapel. They may be rejected if inappropriate, but this shalt not be taken as a reflection on thy judgment. Shilling variable, but generous for thy creativity and specialist knowledge.

- Equine care, such as the provision of food or any other care, ideally post-training on Monday but at thy availability also. 10 shillings per visit.

- General stable care at thy convenience, once a week. 5 shillings.
OOC - please supply some RP screenshots in a church report and one of us will award you them there.  

- Once our library is operational: able scribes to copy material with care. Details to follow.

- Those without any direct craftsmanship or employment but find themselves unable to fully provide for themselves or their family may find work in mundane tasks such as cleaning and tidying the Cathedral, or other work. Speak to a member of the Order to hath this regular work arranged.
OOC - reports on Church forum for the basic task completed will be awarded on basis of RP delivery there.

Other tasks shall be made available as our needs arise.

Signed
Initiate Danaeyl, on behalf of the Avatarian Order.
 

[P]

Preceptor; Brothers; Sisters,

Thoust wilst have heard the glorious news that the Vesperian army hath sued for peace in the war against Cove. Despite driving us back previously, their lack of Faith hath left them unable to persevere through the crushing retaliation by our forces. All that remains now is the terms of their surrender. I write this closing report of the affair from the perspective of the front lines, where I hath seen each stage of the battle play out. It is clear to me now that our previous defeat was merely a part of His greater plan. Though my previous report spoke of bitter defeat, I shalt not be so quick to doubt His blessing of our cause again.

Many noble warriors hath fallen in this bloody battle, and despite seeing many cleaved entwain by the Vesperian hordes, their souls free but their blood soaking the cold night sands, I remind myself that the heretics are this way because they hath not yet been granted His light. We art now in a better position to provide it, and I know we shalt not squander it.

Templi present
Ulrich Malberg , Knight Templar: 1 battle (Battle two)
Roland Dagorian, Knight Templar: 1 battle (Battle three)
Initiate Danaeyl, Templi Initiate: 4 battles (Battles one, two, three, four)
Mordred Cassius, Squire: 1 battle (Battle two)

The first assault by the Vesperian by boat was thwarted. Though the Vesperian came out strong, we had the edge in tactical organisation as well as a reasonable numerical advantage. They crashed against our lines and splintered along the shore, and though they stuck in small packs, we nonetheless routed them. In this battle, the heathens immediately set upon me and almost ended me within the first few moments of battle. However, Avatar provided His protection, and thereafter their could not break through my armour nor shieldwork. We then scoured the streets of Nujel'm for the remaining forces, delivering a decisive blow.

They tried again, but the Covian and Yewish forces far outweighed their assault, and they stood little chance. This bode well, but led to complacency. For after this, the Vesperian dishonourably, but cleverly, fed the Covian military false intelligence on their numbers, leading the Yewish to decide, unilaterally, to defend another tactical point. However, they had managed to bolster their numbers beyond what we had expected, and defeated us, leaving many dead in the sand. Those of us who survived soon heard that they had then turned their bloodlust to the Yewish forces elsewhere, and decimated them.

Bringing us to the final skirmish which led to their surrender: they tried to assault the palace gates in a desperate attempt to seize control of Nujel'm, but were thwarted by our positional and numerical advantage. As wave after wave of red warrior fell, their dejection was plain to see on the battlefield, as many began to flee. For, while both sides faced a crisis of their alliance in this war, ours is made from common values, whilst theirs was made from bargains forged in gold. When pulled tight, ours frayed but remained taut, whilst theirs tore. Though options remained to them, their resolve was broken. And thus the war was won.

The beach front was especially bloody, though in the end this was not in vain.





The Vesperian was particularly adept at fighting in the street, where they did scurry with great effect, but once led into an open space or cornered, fell more easily. We should note this.








Avatar provided us with the opportunity to fell the wytch that accosted me in New Haven so long ago. We did not flinch. Though word hath reached that she survived the encounter through her magiks, she will have cause to think twice before crossing our path again.




Their final push into the palace was doomed to failure, where the remaining forces were dealt with. From the walls thereafter, one could see their allies fleeing, and the Vesperian having no choice but to retreat.



We hath extended a hand, their salvation is now in their hands. Though much remains to be done, this is a noteworthy victory in the name of Avatar.




  
Virtus unita fortiori



Initiate Danaeyl

[B]

A note is left in the Campaign Room

Brothers,

I write in capacity of the holy burden I hath been charged with regarding our military preparation in our fight with the Vesperian heathen. Further to our private correspondence and thy gracious consideration, I should like to confirm that, for the next few weeks we shalt aim to train twice weekly in order to achieve holy lockstep in battle. Despite the many duties we hath individually, most of the Order are able to be in Cove on these days, if not certainly on one of them.



As for our tactics discussed at this past and coming trainings, let us keep them close to our chest, for there are spies who seek to undermine our Order everywhere. I propose at the coming training, we take a rather different, and more simple approach, now our core group tactics are established. Less time on words, and more on action: let us fight till we can fight no more, singularly and then in pairs, and see if we can not collectively observe and plug our fellows' shortcomings in battle that we may not be able to see by ourselves. Our senior Brothers' input will be essential in this matter.



When they art able to take the time from their most important duties, the Clergy are most welcome and encouraged to attend these in the same capacity as this time: to heal the Templi where training calls for it, and offer their spiritual guidance, especially in matters of war when we retire to the Campaign Room.

As for tomorrow, though it is not our direct battle, the Covian forces face a grim prospect of defeat at the hands of our common enemy. Despite their flaws and sin, their Honour in battle hath been repaid with rank deception, for they did forgot the true nature of the heathen. I urge all Templi of all rank and skill who art able to stand with them tomorrow and deliver Justice unto the enemies of our Order, of Cove, and of our Lord.

Dominus vobiscum

Initiate

((OOC - we will meet at the same place, training grounds behind the Cathedral, at 7 on Mondays and Thursdays unless you hear otherwise. In a few weeks we will revisit whether such regularity is necessary and maybe revert to Mondays only once we have a solid basis, which seemed to be a very good day for people. Thanks all)).

Father,

I attach correspondence with the former Church servant Arcanist Drachen with respect of the completion of this trial, notwithstanding my long term commitment to continuing to work with her in a more independent capacity on this matter should something arise within her area of expertise.

(A small bundle of letters is enclosed: http://cove.sugeworld.com/forum/index.php?topic=16294.msg102427#msg102427).

Initiate Danaeyl

Arcanist Drachen,

Thy position is clear in word and deed, and sufficient to end thy direct institutional penance. Though I hope that thou mayst find true redemption within thy own heart, this is a matter between thee and Avatar now. Though these words will no doubt ring empty at this moment, thou art always welcome to discuss matters of the faith with me, in time, should thee wish.

Though the Arisen lay dormant for now, and much of all our time is taken up by the immediate threat of the Vesperian menace, this will no doubt not always be so. Let us keep our eyes and ears peeled for their foul machinations.

Initiate

Arcanist Drachen,

With the end of thy Church servitude, thou art of course under no obligation to continue thy work in this area, nor to do so under our oversight. I do however hope that thou doth, as I expect, consider the situation grave enough that it merits thy independent continued attention.

I hath reflected on thy report. It is disturbing, yet unsurprising, that in order to sustain undeath, the price they pay is life from another source. Yet it is a relief that their foulness is unable to leech from more sophisticated life, at least. It is also of interest that some of their horde use 'ordinary' magiks, as well as necromancy. The former, while potent, can be defended against, yet as thou doth remark, the latter is far more unpredictable.

I leave thy next steps in thy hands, yet should the opportunity arise I hath no doubt that detail on the undead spellcasters, their specific rituals, and ways in which that thee may combat their magics, would be valuable indeed.

Though the period of thy oversight is rendered complete, thou art welcome to communicate thy findings with me in this matter generally if it should be of aid. Though the Arisen are less active at the moment, I fear that this is less a cause for joy and more for worry - who knows what foul plans they concoct in their lair?

Initiate Danaeyl

[A]

Avatari,

I bring disappointing news from the front lines in Nujel'm, for the Vesperians hath driven us back this eve'.

Though Brother Dagorian and myself tried to stem the flow, we were separated quickly in the sea of Vesperian bodies. Though they only outnumbered us a little, it appeared as if wherever I turned I was confronted by many of the Pagans, who hath learned to work with surprising cohesion in a manner they hath not yet displayed. United in their hatred of us and Cove, they now harness their anger as opposed to let it unsettle their balance as before. We were driven by force from the pack multiple times to stand alone, where they were eventually able to bring us down. I must also report, with a heavy heart, that our Yewish allies, who would hath provided the military presence to turn the tides, were nowhere to be found as the wytches, snakes and pagan warriors descended on us. We must therefore be prepared to see this war and crusade out alone. Though I pray to Avatar that the reasons for this were beyond their control and temporal, for our Holy alliance is of utmost importance for all of Sosaria. Yet, even so this will not bring back the honourable dead from this eve', nor shall it suppress the renewed zeal that the heathens must now hath in their victory.

I hath not the experience in battle to formulate a strategic response, and so I reach out to our warforged Brothers for guidance, in light of these new developments, so that I do not fail Him once again. We can discuss the war post training tomorrow. This war is far from over, and perhaps this is simply part of His plan.

I also ask thee, Sisters, to pray on any manner in which we or I may hath displeased The Lord to fall from his divine grace so; if we hath. I pray, but can not silence my own strife to listen close, for my mind doth ring hard from battle. I seek thy guidance.

Till tomorrow,

Hac virtute regno pax partur.

Initiate  

[Avatari,]

Avatari,

As our Order grows in strength and size, our need for resources grows with it. I hath begun to stock our new place of holy worship, and base from which to strike out at all who would oppose Him, with medicinal and enhancing materials most bountifully provided for us in our quest to shine His light in every corner of Sosaria.

For He knew our burdens would be onerous, and thus did He provide the means with which to overcome them. Aumen.

To keep this stocked well through the war and crusade, and beyond, I ask that we all gradually add to these stocks in time. More of what is already contained, and anything else that thou mayst find use in will make sure that we art always prepared on the eve of any battle. I wouldst draw particular attention to the beautiful nature of the Orange petal; I urge all of thee to carry many when battling the Vesperians and their allies, who doth liberally apply their poison to their wicked blades. Though, a word of caution, their poison is strong indeed, no doubt enhanced by the venom in their hearts, and sometimes only His light can be drawn on if thou dost become infected.

Though the construction of our Cathedral is not yet complete, it is now most functional. I hath keys for each of us, wherein thou wilst find a temporary storage facility. If we do not meet before, I shalt distribute these at our forthcoming training session - where we shalt, among other things, be putting these items strategic use to the test, and testing the essentialhood, or not, of each.

Deo juvente,

Initiate

[Templi]

Templi,

As thou mayst be aware I hath been instructed to lead us in Holy crusade against the Vesperian heathens as part of the completion of mine initiation. Though our righteous triumph against the Pagans is preordained by Avatar, this destiny is conditional on us displaying our worthiness. Accordingly, all able are to attend a series of combat training so that our foot and bladework can be performed with unity. Many of our Order are already experienced warriors, and some are not. In either case, given the recent expansion of the Order, all of us must nonetheless learn to fight together as an unceasing and unrelenting battalion of Avatar capable of driving all unrighteous forces, no matter their size, into repentance or death.

I propose the first training for this coming Monday. Despite the Order's growth, our enemies recruit wherever they can find it, no matter the raw material, and we shalt always be the lesser force in numbers. It is essential we accommodate this numerical disadvantage into our strategy; fortunately, we are Avatari. One of you is worth three of any of the faithless on the field. We must all strive to live up to this Holy burden every day, but especially now.

I extend a warm invitation of welcome to the Clergy at these trainings, so that where appropriate they may provide wisdom and healing. Thy radiant presence would be a great boon to us all.

Deus vult, Brothers.

Initiate

(OOC: Monday at 7 is good for enough people Or alternatively Tuesday if people have plans on the bank holiday. Feel free to organise details with me on discord if easier.)