Post by Balanced Breakfast on Jul 18, 2015 2:13:50 GMT
Name: Simon Songwell
Age: 23
Nationality: Swadian
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Blue
Facial Markings: N/A
Skin Color: Caucasian
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 168 lbs.
Build: Slim, yet Athletic
Body Markings: Scar on right side of Abdomen, result of Bardiche.
Interests: Politics, Conversation, Exploration, Social Gatherings, Horseback Riding
Dislikes: Brute Force, Unnecessary Quarrels, Barbaric Actions, Arrogant Individuals, Self Righteous Individuals, Projectiles Being Launched at Him
Strengths: Logical Mindset, Charismatic, Talented Rider, Honorable
Weaknesses: Reluctant to Fight, Too Talkative at Times,
Skills: Horseman, Swordsman, Diplomat, Scout, Basic Understanding of Each Calradic Language
Fears: Fires, Death, Centipedes, Worms, Eels, Ghosts, Sorcery, Arrows, Jarids, Javelins, and Throwing Axes
Profession: Temporary Lord Protector
Preferred Equipment: Great Helmet, Gauntlets, Plated Boots, Red Coat of Plates, Knightly Sword, Knightly Heater Shield, Light Lance, Red Charger
The Misfortune of the Songwells
The Songwell family was of decent wealth and notable renown. Their lineage, throughout Calradian history, has been deeply rooted in the art of mercantilism. Not before long, the Songwells had caravans rolling throughout every corner of Calradia, from Barriye to Yalen. Their noble time, however, was drawn to its end three generations ago. As if a heavenly curse had afflicted the Songwells, their luck changed. Their caravans were frequently raided, their midwives delivered more and more miscarriages, stillborns, and sickly infants, and their elders began to die "strangely circumstantial deaths", as if their competitors and allies had suddenly turned on them and wished to eliminate the "middle men". The branches of the Songwell family tree were pruned until one branch remained: Hector, Gwendolin, and their two sons, Peter and Zaccheus.
The Songwell family had always retained a close bond with the monks of Swadia. The Songwell clan would donate vast amounts of food, books, and medicinal herbs to various monasteries out of piety and generosity. In exchange, Songwell boys were sent to monasteries to receive a sophisticated education centered around reading, writing, and acting as a proper gentleman. It was not uncommon for a boy to choose to become a monk. Though only four Songwells remain, this tradition still lived on.
After receiving an education, Zaccheus chose the path of monkhood, leaving Peter alone to carry on the Songwell lineage. When Peter was 24, his father suddenly died, leaving him alone to manage the Songwell business. He soon found himself overseeing the last of the Songwells' great caravans.
Gwendolin was surprised to find that Peter had returned with a woman after concluding his venture to the Nord and Vaegir kingdoms. This young lady, who preferred to remain anonymous, was revealed by Peter to be carrying an illegitimate spawn. They spent nine months preparing for the arrival of Peter's child, before at last it was born into the world.
Simon's Personal History
Simon's Infancy and Childhood
Simon was born on the 12th of June in the house of Gwendolin Songwell in Uxhal, with the assistance of a monk with medicinal knowledge. Days after Simon's birth, his mother fled in the night, leaving Peter and his mother to raise his illegitimate child. Gwendolin often found herself accommodating the infant, as Peter was occupied with the task of keeping his profession alive.
When Simon was five, he traveled to a monastery to receive the traditional Songwell education for males. In what seemed like a short amount of time, Simon showed competence in reading and writing, and soon discovered a passion for books.In his spare time, he'd often find himself in the library, broadening his literary horizon. After eight years of refining his literacy, mathematics, and mannerisms, he returned to Uxhal to take his place by his father in the merchant's business.
Adolescence
When Simon wasn't shadowing Peter at his office, he was immersed in exploring his home city. Years and years of living in the quiet serenity of a monastery woke something in Simon's heart. He found a love for talking, and a natural talent in charisma. He would enter a lengthy discussion with anyone who would tolerate it, from his father's associates to the guards on the streets. Whenever he was with his friends, they would find themselves fashioning swords out of sticks and stray pieces of lumber in the fields outside the city's walls. Although it seemed like little more than simple child's play, deep down Simon was honing his skills with a sword. He learned that predicting his enemy's next move is the key to victory. Soon, blocking, parrying, slashing, thrusting, and footwork all became instinct. Befriending a guard and allowing him to teach Simon a tidbit or two didn't hurt either.
When Simon was 15, his grandmother, Gwendolin, passed away in the night. After the burial, Simon and his father organized a caravan and set out across Calradia. First to Suno, then Praven, then the Rhodock hills, and the Khergit Steppes, until he came across the Vaegir tundras and taigas. The snow-draped forests and hills mesmerized young Simon, and tales of Vaegir archers holding back hordes of Nord Huscarls and Sea Raiders inspired a good deal of admiration for the Vaegir people.Their caravan had ended when they finally reached the town of Dhirim. Several times more, Simon accompanied his father on mercantile expeditions. His countless hours of horseback riding and path-finding rendered him experienced at riding and land-surveying, and soon enough he proved to be as cunning of a negotiator as his father. He soon found that he could understand the numerous tongues of Calradia, and with each expedition, it became easier and easier to eavesdrop.
Despite the great amount of satisfaction he felt traveling with his father, Simon yearned for more. He sought the one thing that books in the monastery's library and the Vaegir storytellers spoke of: the promises of heroism. One somber night, Simon at last conjured the strength to confess his wanderlust to his father. Peter held back tears as he accepted his son's destiny, and agreed to let him go.
Simon Songwell left the next day, taking the clothing on his back, a sword, and enough gold to transport him to promising lands.
Simon's Days of Adventuring
When at last running out of coin and food, Simon's advance away from Calradia met a sudden halt. In the hills and rivers of a land outside of Rhodock territory, Simon encountered a fellow adventurer by the name of Aoife Aneria. Aoife roped Simon in to enlisting in the military of a king in exile named Iomhar Eoghain.
As Simon was just getting acquianted to the hills and Iomhar's keep, a plague swept into the lands, and the populace scattered to neighboring regions. Simon found himself at the archipelago known as Yore. For several months, Iomhar and his men remained on the tropical retreat, until at last scouts returned with news of marshes and hills vacant of settlement. The refugees once again made an exodus, this time to the Valley of Swamps.
Iomhar quickly laid claim to an abandoned city known as New Zendar. There, he worked to expand his influence and manpower, until Simon was called upon to be a trusted officer.
Some time later, Iomhar and his brother, Chullien, left to scout the northern mountains.Then, unexpectedly, Iomhar's wife, Mary, ventured off on her own. Simon, now the most senior of Iomhar's officers, was left alone with an entire valley to manage. The Vaegirs, situated atop Laras Outpost, grew more and more bold. They began to enslave farmers, raid other keeps, and even seize the village of Glunmar.
Blood of a Commoner, Mind and Heart of a Noble
Simon quickly seized power as Lord Protector, crushing any rebellions or uprisings that threatened to shatter Iomhar's legacy. He believed that the Vaegir threat and the restless riots of New Zendar were enough to legitimize his total control until Iomhar returned.
Soon enough, the villagers of Glunmar took up arms against their Vaegir oppressors. In the heat of a massive battle, Simon and his knights captured Domovoi Boleshkov, the Vaegir lord himself, and imprisoned him. Simon was planning on using him as a bargaining chip to keep the Vaegirs at bay, only to find that a separate detachment of knights captured Laras Outpost while he was indisposed.
Peace now returned to the Valley of Swamps. Simon began to focus on improving the infrastructure of New Zendar, and forming the Valley Watch. The Lord Protector focused his efforts on maintaining and improving the rights of the common man, decreeing that all are equal under the Heavens. Simon fears that Iomhar will never return, but knows that if he does not, the burden of Lord Protector will be placed on his shoulders for the rest of his life.
Noteworthy Facts
Simon's Mother
Simon lacks a single clue to the true identity of his mother. His most popular theories include his mother being a prostitute, a priestess, a sword sister, or a bard. He contemplates if the motives for her flight were shame of illegitimate conception, that a duty to something prevented her from staying, that her romance with Peter was scandalous or forbidden, or that she merely did not want the responsibility of being a mother.
A Fear of Fire, and Ghosts
When Simon was traveling with his father, their caravan discovered the aftermath of a raid upon an isolated village. As Simon passed the charred remains of the once-tenants, he swore he could faintly hear the screams of the dead. Since that day, he finds himself uncomfortable if he is too close in proximity to a fire, and believes that the spirits of the slain villagers may have followed him from their resting place. He also suspects that the ghosts of the men he has killed during his days of adventuring also haunt him. Cold chills and faint whispers unsettle him.
An Affinity for Swadian Culture
Simon's conflict with the Vaegirs eliminated any interest he had in Vaegir culture. Now, he yearns for home, and actively seeks mementos of his homeland.
Simon's Mission
Although Simon now sits as temporary Lord Protector, he feels that more renown and wealth is needed before he can return triumphantly home.
Character Relations
This section helps explains the bond Simon shares with other characters he has met. As time continues on and Simon progresses more and more as a character, his opinion of others may be subject to change.
King Iomhar Eoghain
-King Iomhar Eoghain is Simon's Liege.
-Simon is loyal to Iomhar.
-"I fear King Iomhar may be dead. I hope he returns within the month."
Queen Mary Eoghain
-Mary Eoghain is Simon's superior.
-Simon is respectful to Mary.
-"It's odd that Queen Mary left as well. I fear she's run off an married another man."
Chullien Eoghain
-Chullien Eoghain is Simon's superior.
-Simon is respectful to Chullien.
-"He may be a bit of a brute, but I do miss him. He was always rather friendly."
Aleksander Vladiskov
-Aleksander Vladiskov is Simon's subordinate.
-Simon is friendly to Aleksander.
"Aleksander's allegiance to Domovoi is now null and void, and he sits as one of my knights. He is a good man, and I have great expectations for him."
Domovoi Boleshkov
-Domovoi Boleshkov has no relation to Simon, aside from a few encounters.
-Simon feels apathetic to Domovoi.
"My feud with Domovoi is over. Let him return to his homeland."
Aoife Aneira
-Aoife Aneria is Simon's friend.
-Simon is friendly to Aoife.
"I wish her the best of luck with the Valley Watch. She needs it."
Adam Corium
-Adam Corium is Simon's subordinate.
-Simon shows great favor to Adam.
-"Adam is one of the most reliable men I have ever met."
Please note that this is still a work in progress, and most likely will be so long as this character continues to progress. As significant events occur to him in game, his history will extend.
Age: 23
Nationality: Swadian
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Blue
Facial Markings: N/A
Skin Color: Caucasian
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 168 lbs.
Build: Slim, yet Athletic
Body Markings: Scar on right side of Abdomen, result of Bardiche.
Interests: Politics, Conversation, Exploration, Social Gatherings, Horseback Riding
Dislikes: Brute Force, Unnecessary Quarrels, Barbaric Actions, Arrogant Individuals, Self Righteous Individuals, Projectiles Being Launched at Him
Strengths: Logical Mindset, Charismatic, Talented Rider, Honorable
Weaknesses: Reluctant to Fight, Too Talkative at Times,
Skills: Horseman, Swordsman, Diplomat, Scout, Basic Understanding of Each Calradic Language
Fears: Fires, Death, Centipedes, Worms, Eels, Ghosts, Sorcery, Arrows, Jarids, Javelins, and Throwing Axes
Profession: Temporary Lord Protector
Preferred Equipment: Great Helmet, Gauntlets, Plated Boots, Red Coat of Plates, Knightly Sword, Knightly Heater Shield, Light Lance, Red Charger
The Misfortune of the Songwells
The Songwell family was of decent wealth and notable renown. Their lineage, throughout Calradian history, has been deeply rooted in the art of mercantilism. Not before long, the Songwells had caravans rolling throughout every corner of Calradia, from Barriye to Yalen. Their noble time, however, was drawn to its end three generations ago. As if a heavenly curse had afflicted the Songwells, their luck changed. Their caravans were frequently raided, their midwives delivered more and more miscarriages, stillborns, and sickly infants, and their elders began to die "strangely circumstantial deaths", as if their competitors and allies had suddenly turned on them and wished to eliminate the "middle men". The branches of the Songwell family tree were pruned until one branch remained: Hector, Gwendolin, and their two sons, Peter and Zaccheus.
The Songwell family had always retained a close bond with the monks of Swadia. The Songwell clan would donate vast amounts of food, books, and medicinal herbs to various monasteries out of piety and generosity. In exchange, Songwell boys were sent to monasteries to receive a sophisticated education centered around reading, writing, and acting as a proper gentleman. It was not uncommon for a boy to choose to become a monk. Though only four Songwells remain, this tradition still lived on.
After receiving an education, Zaccheus chose the path of monkhood, leaving Peter alone to carry on the Songwell lineage. When Peter was 24, his father suddenly died, leaving him alone to manage the Songwell business. He soon found himself overseeing the last of the Songwells' great caravans.
Gwendolin was surprised to find that Peter had returned with a woman after concluding his venture to the Nord and Vaegir kingdoms. This young lady, who preferred to remain anonymous, was revealed by Peter to be carrying an illegitimate spawn. They spent nine months preparing for the arrival of Peter's child, before at last it was born into the world.
Simon's Personal History
Simon's Infancy and Childhood
Simon was born on the 12th of June in the house of Gwendolin Songwell in Uxhal, with the assistance of a monk with medicinal knowledge. Days after Simon's birth, his mother fled in the night, leaving Peter and his mother to raise his illegitimate child. Gwendolin often found herself accommodating the infant, as Peter was occupied with the task of keeping his profession alive.
When Simon was five, he traveled to a monastery to receive the traditional Songwell education for males. In what seemed like a short amount of time, Simon showed competence in reading and writing, and soon discovered a passion for books.In his spare time, he'd often find himself in the library, broadening his literary horizon. After eight years of refining his literacy, mathematics, and mannerisms, he returned to Uxhal to take his place by his father in the merchant's business.
Adolescence
When Simon wasn't shadowing Peter at his office, he was immersed in exploring his home city. Years and years of living in the quiet serenity of a monastery woke something in Simon's heart. He found a love for talking, and a natural talent in charisma. He would enter a lengthy discussion with anyone who would tolerate it, from his father's associates to the guards on the streets. Whenever he was with his friends, they would find themselves fashioning swords out of sticks and stray pieces of lumber in the fields outside the city's walls. Although it seemed like little more than simple child's play, deep down Simon was honing his skills with a sword. He learned that predicting his enemy's next move is the key to victory. Soon, blocking, parrying, slashing, thrusting, and footwork all became instinct. Befriending a guard and allowing him to teach Simon a tidbit or two didn't hurt either.
When Simon was 15, his grandmother, Gwendolin, passed away in the night. After the burial, Simon and his father organized a caravan and set out across Calradia. First to Suno, then Praven, then the Rhodock hills, and the Khergit Steppes, until he came across the Vaegir tundras and taigas. The snow-draped forests and hills mesmerized young Simon, and tales of Vaegir archers holding back hordes of Nord Huscarls and Sea Raiders inspired a good deal of admiration for the Vaegir people.Their caravan had ended when they finally reached the town of Dhirim. Several times more, Simon accompanied his father on mercantile expeditions. His countless hours of horseback riding and path-finding rendered him experienced at riding and land-surveying, and soon enough he proved to be as cunning of a negotiator as his father. He soon found that he could understand the numerous tongues of Calradia, and with each expedition, it became easier and easier to eavesdrop.
Despite the great amount of satisfaction he felt traveling with his father, Simon yearned for more. He sought the one thing that books in the monastery's library and the Vaegir storytellers spoke of: the promises of heroism. One somber night, Simon at last conjured the strength to confess his wanderlust to his father. Peter held back tears as he accepted his son's destiny, and agreed to let him go.
Simon Songwell left the next day, taking the clothing on his back, a sword, and enough gold to transport him to promising lands.
Simon's Days of Adventuring
When at last running out of coin and food, Simon's advance away from Calradia met a sudden halt. In the hills and rivers of a land outside of Rhodock territory, Simon encountered a fellow adventurer by the name of Aoife Aneria. Aoife roped Simon in to enlisting in the military of a king in exile named Iomhar Eoghain.
As Simon was just getting acquianted to the hills and Iomhar's keep, a plague swept into the lands, and the populace scattered to neighboring regions. Simon found himself at the archipelago known as Yore. For several months, Iomhar and his men remained on the tropical retreat, until at last scouts returned with news of marshes and hills vacant of settlement. The refugees once again made an exodus, this time to the Valley of Swamps.
Iomhar quickly laid claim to an abandoned city known as New Zendar. There, he worked to expand his influence and manpower, until Simon was called upon to be a trusted officer.
Some time later, Iomhar and his brother, Chullien, left to scout the northern mountains.Then, unexpectedly, Iomhar's wife, Mary, ventured off on her own. Simon, now the most senior of Iomhar's officers, was left alone with an entire valley to manage. The Vaegirs, situated atop Laras Outpost, grew more and more bold. They began to enslave farmers, raid other keeps, and even seize the village of Glunmar.
Blood of a Commoner, Mind and Heart of a Noble
Simon quickly seized power as Lord Protector, crushing any rebellions or uprisings that threatened to shatter Iomhar's legacy. He believed that the Vaegir threat and the restless riots of New Zendar were enough to legitimize his total control until Iomhar returned.
Soon enough, the villagers of Glunmar took up arms against their Vaegir oppressors. In the heat of a massive battle, Simon and his knights captured Domovoi Boleshkov, the Vaegir lord himself, and imprisoned him. Simon was planning on using him as a bargaining chip to keep the Vaegirs at bay, only to find that a separate detachment of knights captured Laras Outpost while he was indisposed.
Peace now returned to the Valley of Swamps. Simon began to focus on improving the infrastructure of New Zendar, and forming the Valley Watch. The Lord Protector focused his efforts on maintaining and improving the rights of the common man, decreeing that all are equal under the Heavens. Simon fears that Iomhar will never return, but knows that if he does not, the burden of Lord Protector will be placed on his shoulders for the rest of his life.
Noteworthy Facts
Simon's Mother
Simon lacks a single clue to the true identity of his mother. His most popular theories include his mother being a prostitute, a priestess, a sword sister, or a bard. He contemplates if the motives for her flight were shame of illegitimate conception, that a duty to something prevented her from staying, that her romance with Peter was scandalous or forbidden, or that she merely did not want the responsibility of being a mother.
A Fear of Fire, and Ghosts
When Simon was traveling with his father, their caravan discovered the aftermath of a raid upon an isolated village. As Simon passed the charred remains of the once-tenants, he swore he could faintly hear the screams of the dead. Since that day, he finds himself uncomfortable if he is too close in proximity to a fire, and believes that the spirits of the slain villagers may have followed him from their resting place. He also suspects that the ghosts of the men he has killed during his days of adventuring also haunt him. Cold chills and faint whispers unsettle him.
An Affinity for Swadian Culture
Simon's conflict with the Vaegirs eliminated any interest he had in Vaegir culture. Now, he yearns for home, and actively seeks mementos of his homeland.
Simon's Mission
Although Simon now sits as temporary Lord Protector, he feels that more renown and wealth is needed before he can return triumphantly home.
Character Relations
This section helps explains the bond Simon shares with other characters he has met. As time continues on and Simon progresses more and more as a character, his opinion of others may be subject to change.
King Iomhar Eoghain
-King Iomhar Eoghain is Simon's Liege.
-Simon is loyal to Iomhar.
-"I fear King Iomhar may be dead. I hope he returns within the month."
Queen Mary Eoghain
-Mary Eoghain is Simon's superior.
-Simon is respectful to Mary.
-"It's odd that Queen Mary left as well. I fear she's run off an married another man."
Chullien Eoghain
-Chullien Eoghain is Simon's superior.
-Simon is respectful to Chullien.
-"He may be a bit of a brute, but I do miss him. He was always rather friendly."
Aleksander Vladiskov
-Aleksander Vladiskov is Simon's subordinate.
-Simon is friendly to Aleksander.
"Aleksander's allegiance to Domovoi is now null and void, and he sits as one of my knights. He is a good man, and I have great expectations for him."
Domovoi Boleshkov
-Domovoi Boleshkov has no relation to Simon, aside from a few encounters.
-Simon feels apathetic to Domovoi.
"My feud with Domovoi is over. Let him return to his homeland."
Aoife Aneira
-Aoife Aneria is Simon's friend.
-Simon is friendly to Aoife.
"I wish her the best of luck with the Valley Watch. She needs it."
Adam Corium
-Adam Corium is Simon's subordinate.
-Simon shows great favor to Adam.
-"Adam is one of the most reliable men I have ever met."
Please note that this is still a work in progress, and most likely will be so long as this character continues to progress. As significant events occur to him in game, his history will extend.