The House of Sora
05-14-08, 06:59 PM
Goal
The House of Sora’s aim is to further the progress of civilization in the most optimal manner possible, whether it be by war, diplomacy, research, or economics.
Admission
Becoming a member of the House of Sora requires four simple steps.
Express your desire to join the group in this thread with your character’s desired codename, which must have something to do with the sky. This identity is known only to those within the ranks of the House of Sora. [A Helpful List of Name Ideas (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=85126&postcount=155)]
State whether you wish to remain a general member of the House or if you wish to specialize and join one of the Lodges. By joining a Lodge, you may eventually pick a related skill and profession for your character to develop (which will not count toward skill balance upon a character update – basically, a free skill). Lodge Members can still join any quest from the Main House or from other Lodges.
Wait for your application process to be evaluated for IC continuity, and if everything works out, he or she will approve you. Upon approval, you will be able to take advantage of the Membership Benefits below.
Participate in a quest that furthers the House’s goals. You can either pick from the House Mission’s below, or make your own quest.
Membership Benefits
Full-fledged members and hopefuls alike are allowed to utilize the resources below. In-depth descriptions of these assets can be found here (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=10396).
Workforce
400 level 0 armed cavalry [* (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=6536&highlight=cavalry)]
400 level 0 armed infantry [* (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=6536&highlight=cavalry)]
Several new NPCs [Engineer (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=72734&postcount=10), Diplomat (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=72734&postcount=10), Head of the Tameran Estate (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=95094&postcount=35), Labor Force (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=95094&postcount=35), Ai'Bron Monk (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=54930&postcount=15), Summoner (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=120254&postcount=17)]
Bases
The Tameran Estate: Radasanth [* (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=95094&postcount=35)]
The Starmare Manor [* (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=87569&postcount=20)]
2 War Galleons [* (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=96685&postcount=28)]
The Cormyr Estate in Salvar [* (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=102030&postcount=27)]
The 7th Floor of the Qu'Ellarin Building [* (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=119048&postcount=9)]
Technology
The Stellar Diamond [* (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=160333&postcount=15)]
By completing an optional Initiation Quest or one of the Quests from the Mission Board, you will also receive a membership pendant (http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h158/Necathys/ECLIPSEPENDANT.jpg?t=1210814343). It is made of a silver-like alloy and is engraved with the House's insignia, the solar eclipse. It will eventually have a number of multiple, highly-useful functions. It cannot be sold.
Current House Missions
These are quests that will help further the House of Sora’s growth.
Ongoing
Ring of the Sun (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=20172) [Lodge Vespera] – Initiated by Ataraxis & guest star Rayse Valentino
The Rot of Koschei (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=16613) [Lodge Vespera] – Initiated by Ataraxis
The Crystalline Plantation (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=10240) [Main House] – Claimed by Streak & Alberdyne
Save the Temple of Lord Draconus (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=11902) [Main House] – Claimed by Alberdyne & Eyanie
The Myth of the Foinse Saoil (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?p=93990#post93990) [Lodge Vespera] – Claimed by Aerys, HikariAngel & Iras Sarwing
Hustle (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=9596) [Lodge Peregrine] – Claimed by Alberdyne & Streak
The Cartographers (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=6709) [Main House] – Claimed by DarkStorm & Seline
Advent of Labor (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=5995) [Main House] – Claimed by Anila & Io
Soil of The Sun (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=5856) [Lodge Diviyoni] – Claimed by The Valkyrie & The Architect Keep up with this story to discover the origin of Lodge Diviyoni.
The Archaeologists (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?p=70321#post70321) [Lodge Peregrine] – Claimed by Ataraxis, Rajani Aishwara & The Architect Keep up with this story to discover the origin of Lodge Peregrine.
The Eluriand Grand Theatre (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?p=70989#post70989) [Main House] – Claimed by Artifex & Architect
The Living Villa (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=6699) [Lodge Vespera] – Claimed by Samoa & Xos
Completed
Empathy for the Stars (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=20172) [Lodge Vespera] – Initiated & COMPLETED by Ataraxis
A Study in Black (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=3716) [Lodge Peregrine & Vespera] – Claimed & COMPLETED by Ataraxis
For the People who are Still Alive! (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=15893) [Lodge Vespera] – Initiated & COMPLETED by Ataraxis & guest star Zook Murnig
The Day Radasanth Sank (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=5511) [Main House] – Claimed & COMPLETED by Alberdyne Cormyr & The Architect
Outreach to Alerar (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=5881) [Lodge Diviyoni] – Claimed & COMPLETED by Streak101
The Terranus Defection (http://http/www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=8042) [Lodge Bladestorm] – Claimed & COMPLETED by Abenaki
A Fleeting Desire (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=6926) [Lodge Bladestorm] – Claimed & COMPLETED by Streak101, Seline, & Valanthe
Mission Board
Shortcut in a Pocket [Lodge Vespera] – When time is of the essence, having to cross miles of stormy oceans, arid plains and harsh terrains can constitute a setback many cannot afford. In order to facilitate long distance travel to the members of the House, the engineers and magicians of Lodge Vespera have devised a means of long-distance teleportation. First, however, you must gather the materials the scientists will require for its conception, as well as a magical source of energy that will fuel the prototype. Speak first to Erelisstra Helviana, the Drow Librarian and Summoner, at the Vesperan Lodge in Ettermire for details about the fuel. Then, seek out Jehesir Atgas, Dwarf Engineer, for a list of required materials. Remember to tread carefully, as this is no simple errand for nuts and bolts. PM Ataraxis for any question you may have.
Empathy for the Stars – The first sub-quest, given after talking to Erelisstra, pertaining to the energy source. (Claimed)
The Ring of the Sun – The second sub-quest, given after talking to Jehesir Atgas, pertaining to the actual teleportation machine. (Claimed)
Bottled Moon – The third and last sub-quest, given after talking to Lillian Sesthal, pertaining to the sorcery that will shrink and lighten the machine, so that all members of the House may carry it within their membership pendants. (Open, quest prompt below)
The Ring of the Sun [Lodge Vespera] – Deep in the Mines of Kachuk, Jehesir Atgas built his secret workshop. Within it are many of the inventions he could not carry with him after leaving his home. Since, as an exile, he cannot return to claim them, the Matriarch has asked that you find this workshop and return the ‘Matter Transference Ring’ prototype he has built, its associated blueprints, as well as anything else you can carry. Tread carefully, however, as the dwarves of Kachuk do not look kindly upon those who snoop around their mountains. Infiltration of Kachuk or diversionary business with the dwarves may get you in, but getting out with the hefty device and other valuable inventions will no doubt garner unwanted attention on you and your team. (Claimed)
Bottled Moon [Lodge Vespera] – Half a mile east of lake Ashkalov, in the peaks of the Ahyark Mountains, hides the mouth of a deep and winding cave that allegedly leads to the lair of the Vodn*k Brothers, mythical beings in the folklore of Salvar. Though they were originally guardians of streams and rivers, they were long ago asked to protect the people of Knife’s Edge from the Velikan, giants that long ago thrived in snowy hills. In exchange for a yearly tithe of grains and poultry, the Velikan were captured, shrunken and imprisoned in bottles. With the centuries, the giants vanished from the mountains, and so did the Vodn*k fall into mere folklore. The Matriarch of Lodge Vespera has asked that you and your team brave the snows and liaise with these brothers, renewing an alliance with these forgotten figures. Alas, upon meeting them, you are captured and thrown into a bottle, where endure the giants of myth. Though you must convince the brothers that the House can provide them with what they wish in exchange for their help, you must first and foremost find a way to escape from your glass prison while surviving the centennial wrath of the Velikan. (Available)
Raid of the Night [Lodge Bladestorm] – The House of Sora has found out that a new threat has emerged. A group of Demons lead by a powerful creature from Haidia was spotted in Concordia Forest causing trouble. The Lodge Bladestorm requires a team of brave individuals from the House of Sora to investigate. (Available)
Here Rests the Materia Nematoda [Lodge Vespera] – Exploring the Black Desert does not make for leisure walk, but it is a well-known fact that the greatest treasures lie in the most treacherous lands. In the southeastern regions of the desert near the Dwarf Hills, a species of sandworms has evolved in the most peculiar of ways: instead of naked white skin, they are covered with a thin shell of utter black, which can grow as strong as mithril and is highly-flexible. Some believe the mutation was merely due to the dark sands, but a band of elven researchers on the field have surmised that prolonged exposition to an unknown substance, possibly a metal, was the cause. Lend them a helping hand by scouring the desert for these creatures and in exchange, bring back all that you can: shells, eggs, live samples. If possible, also investigate on what could have caused the metamorphosis. Exercise caution; these creatures are only hostile when provoked, in which case they will attack in swarms. Remember to bring water and sustenance for the trip, and be wary of poisonous scorpions and the wandering ghosts of the Durklan. PM Ataraxis upon claiming this quest for secret details. (Available)
A Crumbling House [Lodge Diviyoni] –The House of Sora was reknowned around Althanas, but since its steady decline and rise of new leadership, the people have begun questioning the House's power and organization. To prove to the people(and Lodge Diviyoni), accompany Demetri Cornelius, Lodge Diviyoni's newest negotiator, into Luthmor to form an alliance with the Draconian clans as a sign of the House's power, and establish a base near the draconians in Saffron's Lair, (Demetri will know the way), as proof that the House is organized even better than before. PM Ataraxis for more information. (Available)
Education Board
Learn new skills here and/or upgrade old ones. This can be done through questing either Solo or with fellow House members, within initiation and/or mission board quests. Upgrades and new skills/spells can only be granted in House quests, and can only be requested only once per level (you cannot upgrade the same skill more than once using the House Benefits, but a skill learned one level with the House Benefits can be upgraded once with the House Benefits of the next level).
Lodge Diviyoni
International Access – You are capable of peacefully accessing regions of Althanas that would otherwise have required you fight your way inside. As a diplomat, governed countries will allow you free passage into locations forbidden by the public. Upon reaching level 5, this skill automatically upgrades, and you will have a high chance to be granted an audience with the rulers of these countries. Countries and regions without any concept of diplomacy, however, will still be hard to access for you.
Lodge Bladestorm
Combat Ability Upgrade – For a combat ability you already possess, you may increase it by one level. This can only be done once, and it must be noted that this upgrade has been spent, for RoG convenience (and to avoid piling upgrades without their knowing).
New Combat Ability – You may learn one free combat ability, which will begin with a power equivalent to an ability of your level, minus 1 (with 0 being the lower bound).
Weapon Skill Upgrade – For a weapon skill you already possess, you may increase it by one free skill rank. This can only be done once, and it must be noted that this upgrade has been spent, for RoG convenience (and to avoid piling upgrades without their knowing).
New Weapon Skill – You may learn one free weapon or close-quarter-combat skill, which will begin at a rank of 'below average'.
Lodge Vespera
Spell Upgrade – For a spell you already possess, you may increase its power by one level. This can only be done once, and it must be noted that this upgrade has been spent, for RoG convenience (and to avoid piling upgrades without their knowing).
New Spell – You may learn one free spell which will begin with a power equivalent to a spell of your level, minus 1 (with 0 being the lower bound).
Knowledge or Technological Upgrade – For a knowledge or technological skill in the fields of science and/or magic you already possess, you may increase its power by one level. This can only be done once, and it must be noted that this upgrade has been spent, for RoG convenience (and to avoid piling upgrades without their knowing).
New Knowledge or Technological Skill – You may learn one free knowledge or technological skill in the fields of science and/or magic, which will begin with a power equivalent to a spell of your level, minus 1 (with 0 being the lower bound).
Lodge Peregrine
Head for Finances – Upon learning this free skill, your GP gains at the end of a quest increase by 5%. Unlike other House Benefits, it can be upgraded thrice by by blocks of 5%, to a total of 20% at which point it can no longer increase.
Skilled Barterer – Upon learning this free skill, the GP you spend at the end of a Bazaar thread is reduced by by 5%. Unlike other House Benefits, it can be upgraded thrice by by blocks of 5%, to a total of 20% at which point it can no longer increase. (This is OOC bartering, as the IC bartering will give you a base price at the end of the quest. The OOC bartering reduces that by the set percentage.)
Membership
Active Roster
This is our current roster. We are actively recruiting new members!
Patriarch of the House – Seti “Astrophel” Dylan (Missing)
Patriarch of Lodge Peregrine – Rajani “Stardust” Aishwara (Rajani Aishwara) (Missing)
Matriarch of Lodge Vespera and Interim Matriarch of the House – Lillian “Welkin” Sesthal (Ataraxis)
Patriarch or Matriarch of Lodge Bladestorm – Open
Ancestors of the House
Ken “Ol’ Sol” Kilpatrick (NPC) (Ship Builder)
Tulmatra “Luna” Methadras (NPC) (Surveyor)
Akhanatin “Aurora” Ra (NPC) (Mason)
Relatives of the House
Inactive Roster
The following is a list of the people who have joined the House of Sora, but have not been active as of late. If you wish to be moved to the Active Roster, post a note in this saying which character you wish to move.
The list has been purged, but those who used to be members can find their names here (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=43744&postcount=6).
Lodges of the House
Lodge Diviyoni [Diplomacy]
In the language of Fallien, the word ‘Diviyoni’ has the meaning of ‘sky-born’. True to its name, the Lodge watches over diplomatic relations between the House and its allies, as well as its potential foes. Although it is clear that the House of Sora will resort to forceful acts when necessary, the undertaking of negotiations and maintenance of international relations for the purpose of peacekeeping remains its frontline weapon of choice. The members of this Lodge are expected to participate in talks as well as oversee trades and negotiations with nations, companies, individuals and even other interest groups. The House of Sora may have the power to tame most enmities, but its chief desire is to develop as many friendships and alliances as there are stars in the sky.
Patriarch of the Lodge: (Open)
Lodge Bladestorm [Military]
The name "Bladestorm" comes from the name of an offensive initiated by the ancient Coronian clans over 2000 years ago to expel the foreigners who, though at first welcomed into the land, had begun encroaching on their nomadic way of life. As the House of Sora understands and embraces the fact that peaceful solutions to problems are sometimes fanciful thinking at best, the lodge stands as its vanguard in military and tactical affairs when diplomatic methods fail to achieve the desired result. Members of Lodge Bladestorm may be drawn from a wide array of experiences, from those who live only for battle, to those frail, brilliant few who prefer to think up the strategies and tactics and leave the grunt work for their subordinates; all warriors and strategists may find their place here.
Patriarch of the Lodge: (Open)
Lodge Vespera [Research & Development]
‘Chase not the tail of time, but hold its leash. Be not a follower of bygone glories, but spearhead into a future of prosperity.’ To merely fall into the strides of progress is not the goal of Lodge Vespera; its task is to light the path into the darkness of ignorance, as does the evening star after which it was named. In keeping with the philosophy of the House, the members of the association strive to bring beneficial changes to the world through the synergic combination of science and magic. Whatever knowledge they do not possess is sought out, assimilated and, with assiduity and efficiency, improved upon. The mages and scientists of this lodge are pioneers, working hand in hand to surpass whatever obstacle stands in their respective ways. For this reason, they have accomplished much, from innovations in the realm of transportation to groundbreaking advancements in military arms. Welcome are the open and inquisitive minds that fear not the call of grand discoveries, for in Lodge Vespera, the sky is never the limit.
Matriarch of the Lodge: Lillian "Welkin" Sesthal (Ataraxis) (Scholar)
Lodge Peregrine [Financial]
The Peregrine Lodge is an international private equity firm. It is named after Rajani Aishwara’s luxury ship, The Peregrine in which it is headquartered. The firm operates four fund families, focusing on leveraged takeovers, venture growth & capital, real estate, and leveraged finance investments. The former Peregrine Group's goal, economic interest for the greater good, is similar to what the House of Sora seeks for the world, which is why this annex has taken place. (Currently, Lodge Peregrine is unavailable because Rajani Raishwara is missing and out at sea)
Patriarch of the Lodge: Rajani "Stardust" Aishwara (Rajani Aishwara) (Entrepreneur)
News
The Patriarch of the House, Seti Dylan, has last been heard of before setting out on a humanitarian mission in one of the foreign countries of Kebiras, a country that has recently erupted in violent civil war. It is now locked from all sides, thereby disallowing all crossing of the borders, inbound or outbound, at the risk of being taken down on sight. There is no end in sight to the insurgency, and therefore no way of knowing when Seti will return.
Rajani Aishwara, Patriarch of Lodge Peregrine, has also been reported missing. The seas have been mercurial as of late, and there is no sign that the Avalonian’s eponymous clipper-ship has made it to safe land, although it is speculated that he may have found refuge near his homeland. As with Seti, none know when he will return, or if he ever will.
Because of this, the remaining Patriarchs and Matriarch have come together in order to deliberate on the future of the House of Sora, coming to the agreement that they would work as interim leaders until the return of Seti. As such, Lillian Sesthal has taken over as Interim Matriarch in order to keep the House of Sora from falling into oblivion. She now acts to sustain the organization, in hopes of one day steering it to even greater heights.
The House of Sora’s aim is to further the progress of civilization in the most optimal manner possible, whether it be by war, diplomacy, research, or economics.
Admission
Becoming a member of the House of Sora requires four simple steps.
Express your desire to join the group in this thread with your character’s desired codename, which must have something to do with the sky. This identity is known only to those within the ranks of the House of Sora. [A Helpful List of Name Ideas (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=85126&postcount=155)]
State whether you wish to remain a general member of the House or if you wish to specialize and join one of the Lodges. By joining a Lodge, you may eventually pick a related skill and profession for your character to develop (which will not count toward skill balance upon a character update – basically, a free skill). Lodge Members can still join any quest from the Main House or from other Lodges.
Wait for your application process to be evaluated for IC continuity, and if everything works out, he or she will approve you. Upon approval, you will be able to take advantage of the Membership Benefits below.
Participate in a quest that furthers the House’s goals. You can either pick from the House Mission’s below, or make your own quest.
Membership Benefits
Full-fledged members and hopefuls alike are allowed to utilize the resources below. In-depth descriptions of these assets can be found here (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=10396).
Workforce
400 level 0 armed cavalry [* (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=6536&highlight=cavalry)]
400 level 0 armed infantry [* (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=6536&highlight=cavalry)]
Several new NPCs [Engineer (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=72734&postcount=10), Diplomat (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=72734&postcount=10), Head of the Tameran Estate (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=95094&postcount=35), Labor Force (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=95094&postcount=35), Ai'Bron Monk (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=54930&postcount=15), Summoner (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=120254&postcount=17)]
Bases
The Tameran Estate: Radasanth [* (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=95094&postcount=35)]
The Starmare Manor [* (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=87569&postcount=20)]
2 War Galleons [* (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=96685&postcount=28)]
The Cormyr Estate in Salvar [* (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=102030&postcount=27)]
The 7th Floor of the Qu'Ellarin Building [* (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=119048&postcount=9)]
Technology
The Stellar Diamond [* (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=160333&postcount=15)]
By completing an optional Initiation Quest or one of the Quests from the Mission Board, you will also receive a membership pendant (http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h158/Necathys/ECLIPSEPENDANT.jpg?t=1210814343). It is made of a silver-like alloy and is engraved with the House's insignia, the solar eclipse. It will eventually have a number of multiple, highly-useful functions. It cannot be sold.
Current House Missions
These are quests that will help further the House of Sora’s growth.
Ongoing
Ring of the Sun (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=20172) [Lodge Vespera] – Initiated by Ataraxis & guest star Rayse Valentino
The Rot of Koschei (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=16613) [Lodge Vespera] – Initiated by Ataraxis
The Crystalline Plantation (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=10240) [Main House] – Claimed by Streak & Alberdyne
Save the Temple of Lord Draconus (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=11902) [Main House] – Claimed by Alberdyne & Eyanie
The Myth of the Foinse Saoil (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?p=93990#post93990) [Lodge Vespera] – Claimed by Aerys, HikariAngel & Iras Sarwing
Hustle (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=9596) [Lodge Peregrine] – Claimed by Alberdyne & Streak
The Cartographers (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=6709) [Main House] – Claimed by DarkStorm & Seline
Advent of Labor (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=5995) [Main House] – Claimed by Anila & Io
Soil of The Sun (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=5856) [Lodge Diviyoni] – Claimed by The Valkyrie & The Architect Keep up with this story to discover the origin of Lodge Diviyoni.
The Archaeologists (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?p=70321#post70321) [Lodge Peregrine] – Claimed by Ataraxis, Rajani Aishwara & The Architect Keep up with this story to discover the origin of Lodge Peregrine.
The Eluriand Grand Theatre (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?p=70989#post70989) [Main House] – Claimed by Artifex & Architect
The Living Villa (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=6699) [Lodge Vespera] – Claimed by Samoa & Xos
Completed
Empathy for the Stars (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=20172) [Lodge Vespera] – Initiated & COMPLETED by Ataraxis
A Study in Black (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=3716) [Lodge Peregrine & Vespera] – Claimed & COMPLETED by Ataraxis
For the People who are Still Alive! (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=15893) [Lodge Vespera] – Initiated & COMPLETED by Ataraxis & guest star Zook Murnig
The Day Radasanth Sank (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=5511) [Main House] – Claimed & COMPLETED by Alberdyne Cormyr & The Architect
Outreach to Alerar (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=5881) [Lodge Diviyoni] – Claimed & COMPLETED by Streak101
The Terranus Defection (http://http/www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=8042) [Lodge Bladestorm] – Claimed & COMPLETED by Abenaki
A Fleeting Desire (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=6926) [Lodge Bladestorm] – Claimed & COMPLETED by Streak101, Seline, & Valanthe
Mission Board
Shortcut in a Pocket [Lodge Vespera] – When time is of the essence, having to cross miles of stormy oceans, arid plains and harsh terrains can constitute a setback many cannot afford. In order to facilitate long distance travel to the members of the House, the engineers and magicians of Lodge Vespera have devised a means of long-distance teleportation. First, however, you must gather the materials the scientists will require for its conception, as well as a magical source of energy that will fuel the prototype. Speak first to Erelisstra Helviana, the Drow Librarian and Summoner, at the Vesperan Lodge in Ettermire for details about the fuel. Then, seek out Jehesir Atgas, Dwarf Engineer, for a list of required materials. Remember to tread carefully, as this is no simple errand for nuts and bolts. PM Ataraxis for any question you may have.
Empathy for the Stars – The first sub-quest, given after talking to Erelisstra, pertaining to the energy source. (Claimed)
The Ring of the Sun – The second sub-quest, given after talking to Jehesir Atgas, pertaining to the actual teleportation machine. (Claimed)
Bottled Moon – The third and last sub-quest, given after talking to Lillian Sesthal, pertaining to the sorcery that will shrink and lighten the machine, so that all members of the House may carry it within their membership pendants. (Open, quest prompt below)
The Ring of the Sun [Lodge Vespera] – Deep in the Mines of Kachuk, Jehesir Atgas built his secret workshop. Within it are many of the inventions he could not carry with him after leaving his home. Since, as an exile, he cannot return to claim them, the Matriarch has asked that you find this workshop and return the ‘Matter Transference Ring’ prototype he has built, its associated blueprints, as well as anything else you can carry. Tread carefully, however, as the dwarves of Kachuk do not look kindly upon those who snoop around their mountains. Infiltration of Kachuk or diversionary business with the dwarves may get you in, but getting out with the hefty device and other valuable inventions will no doubt garner unwanted attention on you and your team. (Claimed)
Bottled Moon [Lodge Vespera] – Half a mile east of lake Ashkalov, in the peaks of the Ahyark Mountains, hides the mouth of a deep and winding cave that allegedly leads to the lair of the Vodn*k Brothers, mythical beings in the folklore of Salvar. Though they were originally guardians of streams and rivers, they were long ago asked to protect the people of Knife’s Edge from the Velikan, giants that long ago thrived in snowy hills. In exchange for a yearly tithe of grains and poultry, the Velikan were captured, shrunken and imprisoned in bottles. With the centuries, the giants vanished from the mountains, and so did the Vodn*k fall into mere folklore. The Matriarch of Lodge Vespera has asked that you and your team brave the snows and liaise with these brothers, renewing an alliance with these forgotten figures. Alas, upon meeting them, you are captured and thrown into a bottle, where endure the giants of myth. Though you must convince the brothers that the House can provide them with what they wish in exchange for their help, you must first and foremost find a way to escape from your glass prison while surviving the centennial wrath of the Velikan. (Available)
Raid of the Night [Lodge Bladestorm] – The House of Sora has found out that a new threat has emerged. A group of Demons lead by a powerful creature from Haidia was spotted in Concordia Forest causing trouble. The Lodge Bladestorm requires a team of brave individuals from the House of Sora to investigate. (Available)
Here Rests the Materia Nematoda [Lodge Vespera] – Exploring the Black Desert does not make for leisure walk, but it is a well-known fact that the greatest treasures lie in the most treacherous lands. In the southeastern regions of the desert near the Dwarf Hills, a species of sandworms has evolved in the most peculiar of ways: instead of naked white skin, they are covered with a thin shell of utter black, which can grow as strong as mithril and is highly-flexible. Some believe the mutation was merely due to the dark sands, but a band of elven researchers on the field have surmised that prolonged exposition to an unknown substance, possibly a metal, was the cause. Lend them a helping hand by scouring the desert for these creatures and in exchange, bring back all that you can: shells, eggs, live samples. If possible, also investigate on what could have caused the metamorphosis. Exercise caution; these creatures are only hostile when provoked, in which case they will attack in swarms. Remember to bring water and sustenance for the trip, and be wary of poisonous scorpions and the wandering ghosts of the Durklan. PM Ataraxis upon claiming this quest for secret details. (Available)
A Crumbling House [Lodge Diviyoni] –The House of Sora was reknowned around Althanas, but since its steady decline and rise of new leadership, the people have begun questioning the House's power and organization. To prove to the people(and Lodge Diviyoni), accompany Demetri Cornelius, Lodge Diviyoni's newest negotiator, into Luthmor to form an alliance with the Draconian clans as a sign of the House's power, and establish a base near the draconians in Saffron's Lair, (Demetri will know the way), as proof that the House is organized even better than before. PM Ataraxis for more information. (Available)
Education Board
Learn new skills here and/or upgrade old ones. This can be done through questing either Solo or with fellow House members, within initiation and/or mission board quests. Upgrades and new skills/spells can only be granted in House quests, and can only be requested only once per level (you cannot upgrade the same skill more than once using the House Benefits, but a skill learned one level with the House Benefits can be upgraded once with the House Benefits of the next level).
Lodge Diviyoni
International Access – You are capable of peacefully accessing regions of Althanas that would otherwise have required you fight your way inside. As a diplomat, governed countries will allow you free passage into locations forbidden by the public. Upon reaching level 5, this skill automatically upgrades, and you will have a high chance to be granted an audience with the rulers of these countries. Countries and regions without any concept of diplomacy, however, will still be hard to access for you.
Lodge Bladestorm
Combat Ability Upgrade – For a combat ability you already possess, you may increase it by one level. This can only be done once, and it must be noted that this upgrade has been spent, for RoG convenience (and to avoid piling upgrades without their knowing).
New Combat Ability – You may learn one free combat ability, which will begin with a power equivalent to an ability of your level, minus 1 (with 0 being the lower bound).
Weapon Skill Upgrade – For a weapon skill you already possess, you may increase it by one free skill rank. This can only be done once, and it must be noted that this upgrade has been spent, for RoG convenience (and to avoid piling upgrades without their knowing).
New Weapon Skill – You may learn one free weapon or close-quarter-combat skill, which will begin at a rank of 'below average'.
Lodge Vespera
Spell Upgrade – For a spell you already possess, you may increase its power by one level. This can only be done once, and it must be noted that this upgrade has been spent, for RoG convenience (and to avoid piling upgrades without their knowing).
New Spell – You may learn one free spell which will begin with a power equivalent to a spell of your level, minus 1 (with 0 being the lower bound).
Knowledge or Technological Upgrade – For a knowledge or technological skill in the fields of science and/or magic you already possess, you may increase its power by one level. This can only be done once, and it must be noted that this upgrade has been spent, for RoG convenience (and to avoid piling upgrades without their knowing).
New Knowledge or Technological Skill – You may learn one free knowledge or technological skill in the fields of science and/or magic, which will begin with a power equivalent to a spell of your level, minus 1 (with 0 being the lower bound).
Lodge Peregrine
Head for Finances – Upon learning this free skill, your GP gains at the end of a quest increase by 5%. Unlike other House Benefits, it can be upgraded thrice by by blocks of 5%, to a total of 20% at which point it can no longer increase.
Skilled Barterer – Upon learning this free skill, the GP you spend at the end of a Bazaar thread is reduced by by 5%. Unlike other House Benefits, it can be upgraded thrice by by blocks of 5%, to a total of 20% at which point it can no longer increase. (This is OOC bartering, as the IC bartering will give you a base price at the end of the quest. The OOC bartering reduces that by the set percentage.)
Membership
Active Roster
This is our current roster. We are actively recruiting new members!
Patriarch of the House – Seti “Astrophel” Dylan (Missing)
Patriarch of Lodge Peregrine – Rajani “Stardust” Aishwara (Rajani Aishwara) (Missing)
Matriarch of Lodge Vespera and Interim Matriarch of the House – Lillian “Welkin” Sesthal (Ataraxis)
Patriarch or Matriarch of Lodge Bladestorm – Open
Ancestors of the House
Ken “Ol’ Sol” Kilpatrick (NPC) (Ship Builder)
Tulmatra “Luna” Methadras (NPC) (Surveyor)
Akhanatin “Aurora” Ra (NPC) (Mason)
Relatives of the House
Inactive Roster
The following is a list of the people who have joined the House of Sora, but have not been active as of late. If you wish to be moved to the Active Roster, post a note in this saying which character you wish to move.
The list has been purged, but those who used to be members can find their names here (http://www.althanas.com/world/showpost.php?p=43744&postcount=6).
Lodges of the House
Lodge Diviyoni [Diplomacy]
In the language of Fallien, the word ‘Diviyoni’ has the meaning of ‘sky-born’. True to its name, the Lodge watches over diplomatic relations between the House and its allies, as well as its potential foes. Although it is clear that the House of Sora will resort to forceful acts when necessary, the undertaking of negotiations and maintenance of international relations for the purpose of peacekeeping remains its frontline weapon of choice. The members of this Lodge are expected to participate in talks as well as oversee trades and negotiations with nations, companies, individuals and even other interest groups. The House of Sora may have the power to tame most enmities, but its chief desire is to develop as many friendships and alliances as there are stars in the sky.
Patriarch of the Lodge: (Open)
Lodge Bladestorm [Military]
The name "Bladestorm" comes from the name of an offensive initiated by the ancient Coronian clans over 2000 years ago to expel the foreigners who, though at first welcomed into the land, had begun encroaching on their nomadic way of life. As the House of Sora understands and embraces the fact that peaceful solutions to problems are sometimes fanciful thinking at best, the lodge stands as its vanguard in military and tactical affairs when diplomatic methods fail to achieve the desired result. Members of Lodge Bladestorm may be drawn from a wide array of experiences, from those who live only for battle, to those frail, brilliant few who prefer to think up the strategies and tactics and leave the grunt work for their subordinates; all warriors and strategists may find their place here.
Patriarch of the Lodge: (Open)
Lodge Vespera [Research & Development]
‘Chase not the tail of time, but hold its leash. Be not a follower of bygone glories, but spearhead into a future of prosperity.’ To merely fall into the strides of progress is not the goal of Lodge Vespera; its task is to light the path into the darkness of ignorance, as does the evening star after which it was named. In keeping with the philosophy of the House, the members of the association strive to bring beneficial changes to the world through the synergic combination of science and magic. Whatever knowledge they do not possess is sought out, assimilated and, with assiduity and efficiency, improved upon. The mages and scientists of this lodge are pioneers, working hand in hand to surpass whatever obstacle stands in their respective ways. For this reason, they have accomplished much, from innovations in the realm of transportation to groundbreaking advancements in military arms. Welcome are the open and inquisitive minds that fear not the call of grand discoveries, for in Lodge Vespera, the sky is never the limit.
Matriarch of the Lodge: Lillian "Welkin" Sesthal (Ataraxis) (Scholar)
Lodge Peregrine [Financial]
The Peregrine Lodge is an international private equity firm. It is named after Rajani Aishwara’s luxury ship, The Peregrine in which it is headquartered. The firm operates four fund families, focusing on leveraged takeovers, venture growth & capital, real estate, and leveraged finance investments. The former Peregrine Group's goal, economic interest for the greater good, is similar to what the House of Sora seeks for the world, which is why this annex has taken place. (Currently, Lodge Peregrine is unavailable because Rajani Raishwara is missing and out at sea)
Patriarch of the Lodge: Rajani "Stardust" Aishwara (Rajani Aishwara) (Entrepreneur)
News
The Patriarch of the House, Seti Dylan, has last been heard of before setting out on a humanitarian mission in one of the foreign countries of Kebiras, a country that has recently erupted in violent civil war. It is now locked from all sides, thereby disallowing all crossing of the borders, inbound or outbound, at the risk of being taken down on sight. There is no end in sight to the insurgency, and therefore no way of knowing when Seti will return.
Rajani Aishwara, Patriarch of Lodge Peregrine, has also been reported missing. The seas have been mercurial as of late, and there is no sign that the Avalonian’s eponymous clipper-ship has made it to safe land, although it is speculated that he may have found refuge near his homeland. As with Seti, none know when he will return, or if he ever will.
Because of this, the remaining Patriarchs and Matriarch have come together in order to deliberate on the future of the House of Sora, coming to the agreement that they would work as interim leaders until the return of Seti. As such, Lillian Sesthal has taken over as Interim Matriarch in order to keep the House of Sora from falling into oblivion. She now acts to sustain the organization, in hopes of one day steering it to even greater heights.