~Matters of Education...~ (Closed)

[Yusukai_Hyakureiki]

(Closed to Atermis Eburi)

Day 1--
Tuesday, September 09th
C.P. 1812
9:00 A.M.

Knife's Edge loomed ahead. On a contracted expedition to Knife's Edge, the blacksmith headed North for a reason. In a caravan of wagons pulled by powerful oxen, the path they followed was well-worn. A road was carved into the ground that connected Knife's Edge to the various other settlements of Salvar. They'd passed several other caravans on the way to Knife's Edge from one of the many coastal cities in Salvar. The coastal city that they came from was connected via ferry from Corone. At all hours of the day, ships traveled between Corone and Salvar carrying all manner of passengers and trade items. On this particular trip, Yusukai Hyakureiki held a particular item that was of exceeding importance to him.

The item itself? A recommendation from a workshop in Radasanth. Having obtained significant proficiency as a blacksmith, Yusukai was now cleared by his workshop to work alongside the Dwarves of Salvar. Dwarves were legendary for their ability to construct the finest quality equipment items in all of Althanas. Yusukai found himself desiring to be as talented as the Dwarves in that department. Yusukai's school of blacksmithing heralded from the land of Akashima. The particular style of crafstmanship in Akashima offered a specific brand of aesthetics. Aesthetics that Yusukai hoped would make him a legendary mastersmith before his time was due.

When the caravan stopped, Yusukai stepped out of the wagon. He parted ways with the other passengers that were in the wagon with him. The cold began to bite at him despite the fact that he wore winter clothing. A brown hide cloak was wrapped around his shoulders. He wore a heavy overcoat, thick winter pants, and heavy boots. A backpack with his tools was visible as well. He wore his hat to protect his head from the cold, and a heavy scarf covered his face. Yusukai moved against the wind as he made his way towards the front gates of Knife's Edge. He was new there, so he had to ask for directions. Needing help with the map's strange symbols, Yusukai walked over towards a guard.

"Greetings. I was told to speak to one of you folk first. I am new here."

Yusukai saw that the fellow turned towards him.

"What can I help you with?" It was common-tongue, but it was heavily accented with Salvarn baritones.

"I need directions to a workshop called Hollow Stars." At that point, Yusukai pulled out his recommendation papers. They were stamped with a seal from Corone and the symbols of the mastersmith in Yusukai's last shop. "I am looking for work there." Yusukai added.

"Ah, a blacksmith." The guard responded. "Them Dwarves like your kind a lot. You seem a stout lad." The guard paused and removed a pen from his packs. He circled an area of buildings on Yusukai's map. Handing the papers back towards Yusukai, the guard continued to talk. "You wanna head yonder direction." The guard pointed. "It's in The Bazaar district." The guard stamped something on Yusukai's recommendation papers. "You will be needing that. Before you get to the workshop, you should go to The Office of Domestic Affairs. There you can get your citizenship papers and become an officially sanctioned blacksmith of Salvar." The guard continued. "It would be advisable to pursue that course. Of course you would have to pay taxes..."

"That is understandable." Yusukai said as he placed the papers back in his pack. He kept his map outside. "Where is this Office located?"

"In Vayers Street, west of Rathaxea Square." The guard pointed his finger in the general direction of Vayers Street. "If you wish it, I can have an escort guide you."

Yusukai thought about that.

"If it would not be too much trouble I would like an escort." Then Yusukai continued. "I have my papers from Akashima with me."

"You will need those documents." Then, the guard clapped. "Rukai. Come." Then, one of the guards protecting the front gate moved towards their position. "Rukai. This is an apprentice blacksmith seeking citizenship and workman's status." Yuskai saw Rukai nod. "Show him to The Office of Domestic Affairs. He has the appropriate papers." The guard said to Rukai, the second guard. The two exchanged a military greeting of some sort.

"Thank you kindly." Yusukai said to them both. "This is my first time to this Nation. I simply am trying to earn an honest gold piece."

"You've come to the right place." The guard said. He motioned towards Rukai to join Yusukai.

"Come with me." Rukai said. "I shall guide you where you need to go."

[SirArtemis]

(Disclaimer: this event occurs after A Cold Coincidence: Part II as well as the following quest that is yet to be written, likely titled Never Doubt A Norlond, though it is subject to change. This disclaimer is for time reference purposes.)

Artemis was not only getting accustomed to Knife's Edge and the maze of streets, but actually beginning to enjoy the place. No longer did the vagabond get lost while traversing the many streets. Bazzak Norlond had taken him on as an apprentice smith and the experience proved to be both fulfilling and quite enjoyable. The dwarf and his brother had an incredible sense of humor and truly enjoyed life. That sense of enjoyment found itself rubbing off onto the vagabond, bringing a serenity that he refused to let go.

The task currently assigned to the apprentice was to deliver some steel materials to another smithy known as The Hollow Star. The weather recently had turned quite troublesome in Salvar as the winter hit full force, and the caravan carrying their materials was yet to arrive. Walking through the city, the brisk weather bit at Artemis' face, forcing him to pull his cloak tighter.

As he made his way to The Hollow Star, materials all in the pack he wore on his back, he let his right hand fall to the hilt of his dagger. He only had one of his original daggers remaining, after a demonstration by Bazzak showed how poorly the daggers were forged, leaving one blade broken. He rubbed his thumb over the engraving of the word "VIRTUE" as he walked, looking forward to the wonderful knowledge he would garner from this apprenticeship. With a smile, he turned the final corner onto the street where The Hollow Star was located and made his way into the shop.

"Hello there," Artemis said with a smile, "I've brought the materials that were requested of the Norlond Forge. I hope this suits your needs."

With that, he took the pack off his back and placed it on the ground against the main counter. Just then, he heard a knock on the door.

[Yusukai_Hyakureiki]

Meanwhile--

Yusukai Hyakureiki was a foreigner in a strange land. Salvar was not Akashima, but at the end of the day, work was work. Yusukai was happy as long as he was productive. That fact set the tradesman apart from the rest of Althanas even as he made his way to the government building. He'd learned a great deal from the guard already as the man spoke of Salvar. There had recently been some sort of a civil war between the power-mongers of Knife's Edge. Evidence of the war were everywhere, a district of Knife's Edge, was now laying in shambles. Formerly known as The Church of Ethereal Sway, the district lay in ruins after foreigners declared war on Salvar itself.

Shaking his head, Yusukai was reminded of the on-going war in Corone. Guard and tradesman discussed the ongoing events of Althanas as best as they could relay them. Normally, Salvar did not care too much about the events of the other Nations of the planet. But there were patterns in the world-wide destruction. Scholars were suggesting that a greater power was manipulating the current dark events. Althanas needed the old Alliances to be rekindled, but the world was locked in an age of strife and turmoil.

When the guard spoke, the guard gave Yusukai critical advice. He told him which districts were safe, which organizations were not corrupted, and which areas of Knife's Edge needed the most help. Refugees from the war were everywhere, and many folk were displaced from their homes. Forced to flee to the various fiefdoms of Salvar, refugees were traveling all over Althanas in an attempt to flee the ravages of war. But war, war never changed.

Snow was crunched beneath the tradesman's boots. Wearing winter clothing, the clothing warded off the extreme cold. As he walked, his eyes could see the ravages of the recent war. Not capable of holding back his emotions, Yusukai sighed in defeat. It seemed that war had ravaged all the lands of Althanas as if controlled by some fell puppeteer. Many buildings were in various states of disrepair, homeless were everywhere, and folk had a shadow on their face. The whole scene left an ache in Yusukai's heart.

A few of the buildings managed to escape the war and were relatively intact. Salvarn architecture was not Corone's architecture, and it was certainly not Akashima's. Important buildings still stood that were critical to the management of Knife's Edge. Even though war was war, people attempted to keep some sort of a leadership structure despite the fact that there was largely a state of anarchy in Knife's Edge. Those in power refused to give up the struggle for control, refused to give up their iron-grip control over the populace, and refused to let the general populace run loose without their "needed" leadership.

The whole thing disgusted Yusukai. That much was certain to him. His concern was getting work so he could help the general populace of Knife's Edge. Whilst the guard spoke about the current situation in Knife's Edge, they finally reached the government building on Vayer's Street. When the pair walked up to the front door, there was an awkward pause. Yusukai turned towards the guardsman and extended his hand towards him so that the man could shake it. He did so. Yusukai smiled at that gesture.

"Rukai was it?" Yusuaki said. "I thank you for your service. Who should I visit for these papers you spoke of?"

"There will be several offices in this building. You want to visit a man named Rogets Krong." Yusukai saw Rukai pause for a moment. "Tell him Rukai sent you."

The two exchanged a salute, then, Yusukai saw Rukai walk off back in the general direction of his previous post.

Nodding to himself, Yusukai looked at the government building for a moment or three. It had a stately air about it. Official buildings somehow managed to capture that feeling with a pretentious, regal attitude. All the other buildings in the area were relatively simplistic in design compared to that particular building. Already, he did not like the power-structure in Knife's Edge at all. Knfie's Edge was not Akashima.

He entered the building.

***

When the task was completed, Yusukai was standing in front of a place he could relate to more than any other place on Althanas. It was a Workshop called The Hollow Star. Able to smell the work coming from that structure, Yusukai smiled to himself. It was the first friendly sight, besides Rukai, that he'd seen since coming to Knife's Edge. Costumers were coming to and from the workshop in a steady motion. It seemed that war always created supply and demand for the tools of its trade. War, war never changed. Yusukai entered the workshop after he saw someone else knocking on the door.

The other man was a customer for the workshop. Yusukai stepped into the sustained heat of the workshop. It was not open-aired like a workshop in Corone might be. Fires of hell burned within several furnaces visible in the back of the shop. Yusukai's could see several apprentices working in the back. He walked right passed the line, and ultimately, passed Artemis. There was an important looking man behind the counter, and that seemed like the individual who fit the description of the fellow he was looking for.

There were smith-apprentices of every Althanian race working within the workshop. It seemed very modern-era. An employee of the workshop walked up to Yusukai and asked him a very simple question.

"Are you trying to cut the line?" There weren't very many people, but Yusukai had noticed a line. "There is a line you know if you're a customer."

"No no. I am here looking for Master T'sazur Xem'k. I have the recommendation letters, and official papers stamped from the Domestic Affairs Office."

"Oh another blacksmith seeking work?" The employee asked. "That's good we could always use new hires. Come right this way sir."

***

Another employee walked over to Artemis. The man was an elder, stately looking official. Smiling at Artemis' words, the stately looking man prepared to do business with Artemis.

"Ah you're the Apprentice from the Norland Forge." The man said in greeting. "Very good. I will need to inspect the materials and I will need you to sign these forms."

After all, state officials were still state officials, and there was a business to run...

(Feel free to bunny the NPC's as you see fit dude)

[SirArtemis]

As the door opened, a man entered that Artemis recognized. The vagabond could not remember ever seeing a man who looked as unique as this man did. The outfit was common, with a coat and gloves like any individual in Salvar would wear. However, as the man entered the enclosed building and the heat of the place overwhelmed him, he dropped his hood and his purple dreadlocks stood out like an oasis in a desert.

The man walked right past Artemis without noticing him, and the young man could not help but smile at the thought. The vagabond knew that he looked ordinary, not to mention that Yusukai looked as though he had a purpose.

"Ah you're the Apprentice from the Norland Forge." The shop's employee said in greeting. "Very good. I will need to inspect the materials and I will need you to sign these forms."

Artemis smiled at the man and nodded. "Do you mind if I speak with someone while you inspect the materials?" He asked.

"Not a problem," the employee replied, leaning down to pick up the heavy pack of materials. "My goodness, how did you carry it all this way?"

Artemis laughed, taking the opportunity to approach Yusukai. He stepped around the counter, almost bumping into a man who was carrying a glowing piece of metal that he was working. As Yusukai spoke with another employee of The Hollow Star, Artemis placed his hand on the man's shoulder.

"Good to see you again," Artemis said with a smile.

[Yusukai_Hyakureiki]

Several individuals worked behind the counter. Some were tending to the orders of the customers, others were bringing materials to and from the Hollow Star. A clutter of materials were visible behind the counter, ores in various stages of refinement, weapons and equipment of all sorts, and tools of all sorts as well. Yusukai felt the temperature of the workshop increase considerably when he walked behind the counter and further into the structure. The ceiling was relatively high as far as Salvarn architecture was concerned. Salvarns were a naturally sturdy, and over sized lot. So ceilings had to be high, and corridors needed to be just as wide to support the nearly gigantic sizes of the natives. Visible on the ceiling and on the walls, light fixtures were placed on either side of the corridor behind the counter. Light fixtures glowed with a magical light, and provided a comforting atmosphere despite the heat.

Heat swelled through the air. Sweat was already pouring down Yusukai's body as he stepped behind the counter. Though there was an endless Winter constantly flowing outside, the heat in the workshop reminded Yusukai of an oven. However, despite the sweat flowing down his person, he was used to the terrible heat of a workshop. Even with his body used to tremendous exposure to heat, Yusukai unbuttoned his heavy overcoat, and removed his thick hat. Yusukai's cloak rubbed against the floor, dragging along with the apprentice's every movement.

As they were getting ready to go deeper into the workshop to meet Master T'sazur Xem'k, a hand was placed upon his shoulder. For a moment, Yusukai felt a little startled. When he realized that the gesture was a warm greeting and not a hostile one, Yusukai relaxed his tension. He nodded towards the man who was guiding him to the Master, and then turned towards a familiar face, Artemis Eburi. He'd first met the man in a previous adventure during his time spent in Underwood. That seemed like ages ago now. Seeing the fellow blacksmith again produced a smile on Yusukai's face. The two had a lot of matters in common...

"Ah, Mr. Eburi. So glad to see you again way out here in Salvar. After our last adventure, I hadn't heard a word from you since. I was wondering if I had done something to upset you or bother you." Yusukai said with genuine concern. "However, I think we performed most admirably in that adventure together."

Yusukai was referring to a previous job (http://www.althanas.com/world/showthread.php?t=21019) that seemed like it took place lifetimes ago. That job was a suicide mission, but they'd found a way to unlock a conspiracy that would shake their lives forever. Yusukai was closer to finding his first challenge of the Paladin. As a follower of the Order of Omni, the final test was to confront the corrupted forces of Kajeenith in its rawest forms. Yusukai still hadn't faced the final test, but he knew it was close to his time. Omni flowed through his veins, and Omni foretold things that were to be. Yusukai had the potential to emerge victorious from the final test just like all the followers of Omni.

Yet, many followers fell prey to Kajeenith. Kajeenith was the ultimate form of corruption and the followers of Omni were trained to make a stand against that corruption. Yusukai was constantly tempted by the Kajeenith's luring temptations, but at his basic-most level, he was still a good man.

Looking at his friend, Yusukai was happy to see a familiar face. His eyes seemed to light up at seeing Artemis Eburi one more time. Perhaps, it was fate that were to meet under such circumstances. Yusukai extended his hand in greeting, though it was still hidden within a thick, hide glove. The man who was guiding him to Master T'sazur Xem'k paused his activity to allow Yusukai a chance to converse with the fellow. Yusukai took a position in between the two men that was respectable so that Artemis Eburi could be able to see the other man easily. Yusukai wore a grin on his face now. His entire demeanor had changed from a business-like demeanor, to a more friendly one.

"What news since our last meeting? How long have you been here in Salvar?"

There were questions that needed asking. Answers that needed collection. The hour, was not appropriate however. Yusukai, realizing that matter, turned to the employee of The Hollow Star.

"I apologize for making you wait like this. Can my friend accompany us whilst we go meet Master T'sazur Xem'k?" Yusukai asked. The man nodded and Yusukai continued his journey deeper into the inner workings of the workshop. Yusukai turned to Artemis Eburi. "I have traveled here seeking employ. Are your reasons the same Mr. Eburi?" Yusukai asked as he walked towards his destination, he was following the man before him. He assumed that Artemis Eburi would follow the pair in the depths of the beast.

[SirArtemis]

"It is good to see you again as well," Artemis began with a glowing smile on his face. "You have not upset me, do not worry; I've simply not had much time to settle in anywhere. I have been in the city for barely more than a month, apprenticing for another forge a short distance from here. I came seeking some reprieve and a change of scenery, and so far it's been going well."

Artemis glanced around. Seeing all the bustle of The Hollow Star and realizing he still had things to do for his own employers, not to mention that Yusukai was busy with his own work, the young man had an idea.

"Actually, you seem to be busy," Artemis concluded, "and I still have some tasks of my own as well. I have a suggestion."

Artemis pulled some scrap paper and a pencil out of his pocket that he carried for smithing designs, drawing out a map for his friend.

"There's a wonderful tavern that I stay at where I think you would feel right at home." Artemis could not help but let out a laugh as he said the comment. It was true, but only because the tavern was quite literally all dwarves. The vagabond was usually the only non-dwarf in the bar, and he loved it that way. He was sure that Yusukai knew the stories of dwarven smiths and would love the setting, not to mention the incredible food.

"Find me there this evening," Artemis continued, handing Yusukai the directions. "It would be wonderful to catch up with you, especially if you will be sticking around in the city for some time. Come hungry, and I promise you that you will leave happy."

Artemis clapped the man on the shoulder and as he began to turn to leave, he remembered one more detail.

"Actually," Artemis smiled, "it would be wonderful if you could bring some of that tea we shared in the Peaceful Promenade. I miss the delicious drink."

Artemis let out a light laugh, smiling again. "I hope to see you tonight then?" Artemis finished, reaching out his hand for the purple-haired companion to shake it.

[Yusukai_Hyakureiki]

Shaking his the hand of his ally vigorously, Yusukai grinned at the thought. He took the small document that Artemis Eburi handed him. Then, as the man left, Yusukai understood the fellow's intent. It was a better situation to meet after his duties in The Hollow Star were taken care of. I will see you after all is taken care of, friend. Yusukai thought to himself, then, he turned towards the employee that was guiding him towards Master T'sazur Xem'k. Patiently waiting for him the entire time, Yusukai physically and verbally thanked the man for his troubles.

"Thank you good sir. I appreciate the wait. I apologize for it as well." As he spoke, Yusukai's thick, Akashiman accent came out. "Shall we get to where we need to go?" Yusukai asked.

"Yes. Right this way. Do watch your step, there is a lot of work going on here in the back area of the workshop." Yusukai heard the man say. Yusukai analyzed the thick Salvarn accent. It was an interesting dialect of the regular Althanian common tongue.

Looking around the hallway, he saw an elegant carpet on the floor that was Salvarn in design. He couldn't tell anything more than that. Doors to various rooms and offices were placed throughout the length of hallway, and it was several yards long. By the end of the long walk, Yusukai was gasping for air as the heat had started to take its toll. Yusukai needed to remove his winter get up fast. After he'd unbuttoned most of his upper body outfit, Yusukai wiped sweat off his brow. Though he was a professional smith, the heat of a furnace was never an easy matter to deal with. Especially with Yusukai's current attire.

As he entered the main area of the workshop, Yusukai saw several large furnaces made of steel in use. Many apprentices and non-apprentices worked the furnaces, anvils, and other areas of the workshop. The first thing that struck Yusukai was the level of noise in the place. Many folk were yelling at one another, trying to speak above the roar of flames within the array of furnaces in the chamber. The ceiling was very high. Light was everywhere, a necessity considering the nature of the jobs at hand. Large Salvarns were busily at work striking the anvil with their respective smith's hammer. Yusukai looked around at the various fellows at work, members of Salvar's indigenous population was visible. Also, members of several other Althanian species were also visible.

All were humanoid in configuration. Yusukai even noticed two High Elves working in the workshop that struck him as a rather interesting prospect. The man who was guiding him motioned to be weary of the various anvils and workers utilizing the anvils. Yusukai was careful not to get in anybody's way. Stepping closer towards the furnaces, the heat in the room's air seemed to increase rapidly making the situation exceedingly uncomfortable for the apprentice. Yusukai's workshop in Underwood had been a smaller workshop with only two furnaces at best. The heat there was well insulated by magical methods.

The same commodities were not visible here. It seemed that the folk native to Salvar were an exceedingly well-built lot. Yusukai admired such tenacity right away. Finally, the journey lead to a particular anvil and a particular man that was working that anvil. Immediately noticing the sinewy muscles that bulged through the clothing that the man wore, Yusukai studied him. His eyes traveled across the expanse of that fellow, he had a powerfully built chest and shoulders to match. Yusukai studied the physical configuration of the native Salvarn humanoid. They were a tall lot, averaging from six-feet-two inches, two as tall as eight feet and taller. Yusukai could not even begin to guess at the man's weight class.

Studying the man's eyes, Yusukai observed a strange shade of steel-gray eyes. His eye brows were thickly defined, temporalis region was well angled, and he had a thick jawline. His jaw was also angular, but not square. However, the protrusion of his chin was well defined. His nose was thick, nostrils flared from the effort of the work he was performing. Yusukai saw the man lifting a powerfully forged blacksmith's hammer. Intricate marks were upon the expanse of the hammer that were probably tribal symbols of the man's clan or guild. Yusukai saw that the man had a clearly defined beard that could rival any Dwarves' beard. Focused on his work, the man paid no attention to Yusukai at fist.

His companion waved towards Master T'sazur Xem'k with a nod. Yusukai understood what that gesture met. He is my new Master now. Through him I will become powerful enough to defeat Kajeenith. Yusukai nodded towards the man who had guided him to his Master. Afterward, the apprentice was not certain what to do next. He turned towards the fellow employee of The Hollow Star, and spoke to him. Yusukai spoke just loud enough that the fellow could hear him when he spoke.

"Now what?" Yusukai asked, uncertain of how to proceed, not wanting to disturb the man whilst he worked.

"Now you wait." Came a powerful voice from them man. That voice, it shook Yusukai to his very core. He looked up and saw that Master T'sazur Xem'k was looking directly at him. "You're the apprentice from that shit-hole Corone are you not?" Yusukai heard him ask.

Not sure what to say or do, Yusukai decided to simply adjust.

"I am." Yusukai began. "I am from..."

"Yes or no will do. Keep your wits about you boy. There are no games tolerated here." Yusukai was taken aback, and he suddenly understood that this man was not a kind man. He was a businessman, and acted like how they generally acted. Immediately, Yusukai was not sure if he liked the idea of apprenticing to such a fellow. "Do you have your documents with you?" The man asked, getting right to business.

"Yes I do." Yusukai said, he began to fumble with his gloves so as to procure the forms from his pack.

"Do not bother to get them now." There was a harshness in the Master's tone. Yusukai saw that he looked at the other man now. "Give your forms to Rybhem Dehmmer." Yusukai noticed it when the man pointed towards the fellow that had been guiding him through the workshop. "I don't care where you come from, you are here now. The rules of this workshop are not the rules of Corone. You either keep up or get lost, we have no time for lazy fuckers here." Yusukai saw that the man finished striking at the object on the anvil. It was a material Yusukai had never seen before. "You obviously can't start tonight. But you'll start fresh in the morning. On the fifth hour of morning. Be on time. Or you'll get docked pay. By the way kid, welcome to The Hollow Star." The man said and Yusukai noticed the wide grin.

"I am your Master now." Yusukai heard the man saying. "Study hard, work smart, and you will be rewarded. Don't bother trying to get on my good side. I just care that The Hollow Star produces its monthly quota." Yusukai nodded at that.

"Is there anything else?" He asked.

"Nothing. You will be given pay if your papers check out. If you're sanctioned you can freely work out of here. But don't expect any special treatment. You earn your keep here kid." The man said. "I have rules, but you'll learn those tomorrow. Go get some rest kid, be ready for tomorrow. We'll whip you up into shape in no time flat." Yusukai heard Master T'sazur Xem'k say.

Yusukai nodded.

"Right this way." Rybhem Dehmmer then said to Yusukai. Yusukai followed the man, not wanting to get on Master's bad side. By then, Yusukai had procured his documents. They walked out of ear-shot's range and Rybhem Dehmmer stopped in front of Yusukai. The two conversed for a moment. "Don't worry about Master Xem'k. He comes off tough at first but you'll get used to it. Follow his rules, and obey the chain of command. You'll do well. Work hard, and you'll earn a bit of money as well. Most of us make a good living as long as there are no slackers." He said. "Try to keep up and you will be fine. Let me see those papers."

***

Later...

Yusukai was heavy of heart and spirit. The registration process was a long and drawn out event, his chest rose and fell with each disappointed breath he took. Cold now caressed his person even as his warm clothing attempted to ward it off. Wind carried his cloak with it. It lashed at the abyss with the tenacity of hungry wyverns. Yusukai held the parchment in his hand that Artemis Eburi gave him earlier. The day had been a long day, the events of the day unfolding in a less than favorable outcome. Worry filled his heart as he thought of the vicious attitude of his new instructor, Master T'sazur Xem'k. Yusukai was used to a strict sort of kindness from previous instructors. Now, he was forced to deal with this new obstacle.

Heavy of heart, Yusukai entered the tavern. Built for shorter folk, the tavern was nigh eight feet high at its highest point. Chandeliers swung on chains on the ceiling, conversation and laughter filled the air. A cold breeze seemed to follow Yusukai into the warmth of the tavern/inn. The particularly powerful scent of foodstuffs, and liquids of all sorts filled Yusukai's nostrils. It was at that moment he realized how hungry he was. Yusukai mostly drank tea or other similar substances due to his training as a Paladin. He swore an oath to never feel the paralyzing effects of ale. Yusukai did not attempt to search for Artemis Eburi, his mind was too distracted. He walked over to the bar...

[SirArtemis]

Artemis was glad to have come across his friend Yusukai. It would be pleasant to have more people to talk with. This wasn't to say that the people he had were not enough, but the more the merrier, so to speak.

After shaking the man's hand and making plans to meet at The Bearded Gnome later that day, the vagabond set off back toward the Norlond Forge. Now that his delivery was complete, he had other work that needed to be completed. On his way back, he decided to make a little detour to the marketplace to visit one of the Norlond brothers, Nalin. The air was brisk and the cold air stung at his lungs with every breath, but he knew that the dwarf would appreciate the company. After all, business was much slower during the colder times of year, but the dwarf was as stubborn as they come.

“Just ‘cause the seasons change doesn’t mean people stop needin’ things!” That was the dwarf’s acclaimed saying.

Making his way down the streets, he pulled his cloak as tight as he could, walking at a brisk pace to the market. It wasn’t too far of a walk, but every second reminded the young man of the difference between the hot forge and what lay outside its walls. The very thought of the forge was the best weapon against the cold. The idea of standing by the glowing furnace could make a man sweat. Then again, it was something that Artemis had grown to love.

Not too long after seeing his old friend Yusukai, the silhouette of his new dwarven friend was visible in the distance. Smiling, he went over to the little stall of the man.

“I’ve finished my delivery.” Artemis stated matter-of-factly, “How’s the market today?”

Nalin laughed before responding, “Look around ye lad, you tell me.”

Artemis joined in the laughter. As he approached, he had seen that there were very few stalls even set up, and only one person was shopping. He couldn’t blame the people of Knife’s Edge. Today had been one of the coldest days of the season thus far. Most people were bundled up in their homes by the fire.

Nalin had his own little fire set up between himself and his neighbor, a bowyer and friend named Axel. The fire was not a normal campfire, but a byproduct of a useful trinket Artemis received from a man named Steppenwolf. The trinket began as a large cube, and upon activation using a smaller companion cube, the larger one would unravel upon the ground. At that point, the flat square would combust, the chemical coating burning to give off a blue and green flame. Artemis knew how to refuel this little trinket, so letting Nalin and Axel use it during the day was the least he could do. After all, they played quite a large part in his success at clearing the mine of orcs south of the city.

"By the way, I brought more fuel for the cube," Artemis remembered, "It should run out of fuel soon." Artemis tossed the little vial of fuel to the dwarf who caught it with a smile.

"Thanks lad. It'd be awful cold out here without yer cube," Nalin confessed, Axel giving a single nod in affirmation.

"I should head back to the forge," Artemis admitted, "Bazzak has me working on bowls today, and I should get them done before I meet with a friend at The Bearded Gnome this evening. I will see you tonight if you choose to stop by. If not, then tomorrow."

Artemis turned with a wave, setting off in the direction of the forge, satisfied that the two would stay warm as well as with the small distraction he had afforded himself.

_______________________________

The rush of hot air rolled over Artemis as he stepped into the Norlond Forge, a pleasant change after spending nearly the last hour outside. Shutting the door behind himself he began to take off all of the clothing he was using to keep warm; they were no longer needed.

"Bazzak?" Artemis yelled, wondering where the dwarf might be. "The delivery is done and I'm ready to start on those bowls!"

Folding his gear and stripping to nothing more than his boots and leather chaps, the man walked over to the forge where the wrought iron was already heated and ready to work. That being the case, he knew the dwarf was around.

'Might as well get started.'

Picking up the flat metal bar with a pair of tongs, the young smith moved the heated slab over to an anvil to begin working it. Ever since he became the apprentice of the Norlond's, they had done everything possible to wipe his knowledge of the craft. Everything he had once learned forgotten and taught anew, forcing past experience aside.

'First, draw the metal into the correct length and dimensions.'

The instructions rang in the young man's mind like the hammer he now wielded, striking the glowing orange. This was his art: the hammer being his brush and the metal his canvas. There was beauty in the work, and when done right, a smith could only smile at the result.

'Next, upset the metal by hammering the corners in. Make the rectangle an oval.'

Letting out a sigh, he continued his work, sweat dripping down his brow as the heat of the forge mixed with exertion. He was not aware of it but Bazzak had arrived at this point, though quietly, and was watching the boy from afar. Sparks flew with every strike, the hairs on Artemis' arm long since singed off. He placed the work-in-progress back into the furnace to reheat before his next step.

'After you have the shape, begin to bend the metal into the proper shape.'

Retrieving the reheated work, the smith took a bending wrench to the edges while holding it steady with tongs, slowly bending up the sides to make a bowl with wavy sides. He continued to work the imperfections out by bending more, and it seemed to be taking shape.

'Shrink the edges and hammer out the wavy material that bunched up.'

The dwarf smiled, watching the apprentice work just as the dwarf had instructed him the day before, pleased that the young man was capable of taking instruction so well. Bazzak held high hopes for this young man, and hoped for him to match Bazzak's ability within no more than two years. It was odd to think a young human could be so adept at working metal, but this particular man seemed to have a connection with metal that went beyond what many dwarves were even capable of. He understood the metal, seeing the shape and steps before the work even began. He simply needed the skills and tools and his craft would become flawless. The thought along made the dwarf giddy with excitement.

Artemis continued with the bowl, turning it along the anvil and hammering out the wavy sides and creating a flat edge. The vessel just rolled along its side, taking shape as an urn in the hands of a potter. Anyone who watched the young man at work would be amazed at how quickly and efficiently he produced his work. No strike was wasted, his precision impeccable, taking advantage of every second that the metal remained malleable. As the project took final shape, only one final step remained before it was complete.

'Punch the metal with a chisel, leaving your mark of craftsmanship.'

This was Artemis' favorite part. He did not have a mark of his own when beginning the apprenticeship. In the past, the mark of his father was used, a symbol of the family rather than of a single worker. Now, he had his own, and pride flooded him every time he engraved it upon a work. It would need reheating one last time to ensure the engraving would be easy, and upon placing it back into the furnace, the young man heard clapping. Turning around, he saw Bazzak standing with a smile on his face.

"How long have you been there?" Artemis asked, wiping the sweat off his brow, clearly embarrassed.

"The whole time," Bazzak laughed. "You're doing well. You learn quickly, and you seem to have an affinity toward metal. I almost never admit something like this, but you continue to impress me. It won't be long before you are ready to make those daggers of yours." The dwarf gave his apprentice a slap on the back. "I think you're done with bowls now, but my next project will need more iron. Finish this last one and you can actually keep it. The others were for practice. That is why we kept re-melting them. Now, you will begin working with steel, and I might actually sell some of your work. The bowl is yours to keep and use. Think of it as a reminder of your progress."

As the dwarf began to walk into the back room, he stopped for a final comment. "You're done for the day, enjoy the rest. Tomorrow, we start with a challenge. See you in the morning lad!"

Artemis smiled, a bit of excitement stirring with him. The past month he had made simple goods to understand how to shape and work metal effectively. Bowls, forks, kitchen knives, horseshoes, and other common items were how the man learned. Bazzak crafted weapons and armor, and given the cold season, people weren't going out much. Demand was slow and this gave the dwarf plenty of time to teach his favorite new apprentice, even though Artemis was his only apprentice.

Pulling his final bowl out of the furnace, he took a chisel and began carefully engraving the bottom with his mark (http://img39.imageshack.us/img39/4607/consortiumtabard.jpg). The work didn't take long, and as soon as he finished, he took the bowl and set it aside to cool on its own, knowing that forcing the temperature to drastically change would warp his perfectly shaped bowl.

"Hey Bazzak!" Artemis shouted toward the back room while toweling the sweat off his body. "I'm going to head to The Bearded Gnome. Would you like to join? I'm meeting a friend there."

"I have some prep work I have to finish before we start tomorrow. I may come by later with Nalin for dinner though."

With a nod, Artemis donned his gear and took a drink of water before heading back out into the Salvarn cold. Tomorrow should be enjoyable.

_______________________________

Artemis arrived at The Bearded Gnome just as dinner was being finished and was happy to catch the meal fresh out of the oven. He waved to Harki, the barkeep, and took his favorite seat at the bar. Oddly enough, Yusukai was already there and happened to be sitting in the next seat over.

"How are you, Harki?" Artemis plopped himself in the seat, grinning at the barkeep. "Tomorrow, I start working with steel! A step up from iron, and no more bowls!"

Harki let out a great laugh and stopped polishing a mug to reach out and give Artemis a well-deserved handshake. "Glad to hear it lad! Soon, ye'll be makin' some fine weapons and armor for the folk of Knife's Edge. Let me get ye some dinner."

"What is it tonight?"

"Yer favorite, lad; blackened meat and taters."

"Awesome! One for me and one for my friend here, Yusukai." He shouted, looking forward to the delicious meal. This was the first dish he had in Knife's Edge, and it always brought back good memories.

Waiting for the meal, Artemis turned and patted Yusukai on the shoulder.

"It seems you made it here well enough, and before me too! How did the meeting go?"

Yusukai turned toward Artemis and gave somewhat of an empty smile. It became clear that things had not gone as well as his purple-haired friend had likely hoped.

"What is it, my friend?" Artemis said, turning to face the man.

[Yusukai_Hyakureiki]

Ambient light from glowing orbs cast flickering shadows upon the floor and walls that created the moderately sized chamber. Fumes from the various smokers in the chamber flowed through the air clinging like dragons made of smoke. The intense smell of animal meats traveled through the air giving the chamber a certain scent. That smell was further enhanced by the smell of tobacco smoke, and cannibus herb. The chamber had two windows, one on either side of it. Roaring flames, magically conjured, rested within an sub-standard fireplace. A simplistic fireplace was present.

Loud voices filled the tavern as many conversations took place with the baritone quality of an opera-symphony. Many small-folk were present within The Bearded Gnome. They were all Dwarves. Roughly a dozen tables were set up in the chamber. There, within the pub, were many Dwarves. A flag was visible behind the bar that was a combined symbol of something called The Trader's Union, and various symbols of the Dwarven folk of Knife's Edge.

As a world, the microcosm of the little-folk seemed foreign even to the eyes of the Akashiman. Yusukai's eyes floated across the room as he carefully observed the various individuals all around him. Tradesmen of all sorts were present, guards, miners, blacksmiths, and all professions in between. Some were simply common-folk scraping up a gold piece to survive. The variety of folk within the pub reflected the lost era of Salvar's history. After the events of the civil war in Knife's Edge, the population experienced an identity crisis. Iorlan and his followers were gone, The Sway and its followers were also gone. Once, where the towers of The Sway stood proudly, now there was nothing but destruction. A destruction that reflected the broken heart of the population of Knife's Edge.

Everywhere in the chamber, folk talked loudly about the various events happening all over Salvar. A few folk carried news from the rest of Althanas, some, as far as Dheathain and Fallien. Yusukai listened carefully as he picked up bits and pieces of current events. One Dwarven group was discussing a recent skirmish between the warriors of Knife's Edge, and noble folk heralding from a fiefdom in Uroda. Another group of small folk was discussing events in Knife's Edge itself. The death of Iorlain Rathaxea signaled the end of an era for Salvar. Without an obvious leader, new wars would begin in Salvar for control. The League of Salvic States would compete against the next largest competitors which was The Vogruk-Stokes Trading Company.

With war-time, came those who would profit off the war. Noble-folk who were ahead of the times invested large sums of money into local workshops to single out a profit in the making. That's how Salvar's economy became corrupt, and the value of the gold piece dropped during the time of civil war and in-fighting. Yusukai's mind was troubled as he learned of these matters. Someone sat down at the bar next to him. The voice that belonged to the fellow sounded quite familiar, and then, the fellow greeted Yusukai. He turned towards his ally, Artemis Eburi.

"My employ at The Hollow Star starts tomorrow. I should be happy, but many folk here in Knife's Edge lack employ. I only recently got my Salvar papers in order, but, I feel empathy with the people who suffered. News of the war reached the ears awaiting in Corone, but they could do nothing to assist the common-folk. I am going to apprentice to man who is less than pleasant. It will not be an easy task to stomach. But at least, I will have employ whilst others do not." Yusukai sighed, and ordered a drink.

"What will it be lad?" A female Dwarf asked of the apprentice.

"Salvarn Tea will suffice. I'd like a serving of meat and Salvarn rice, if any is available." Yusukai said. "But nothing too spicy." Yusukai paid for his meal and tea, and then turned towards Artemis Eburi. "The man I will apprentice to does not like me. And I feel that is going to be a problem."

[SirArtemis]

Artemis felt a bit put off by Yusukai's words, and could not hide a bit of disappointment that the man decided to order something else. After all, it was his favorite meal, and his friend had just rejected the offer. Artemis sat back and frowned, looking over at the barkeep who simply shook his head with eyes closed.

"Ye know lad," he began, "I doubt the people of Knife's Edge would want yer pity. Sure, plenty are unemployed, but they aren't unoccupied. Just because ye aren't being paid don't mean ye aren't workin'. Plenty of folk are doing what they can to get the city back on its own two legs, so to speak. Salvarn way is to look out for yerself, and help others in the process."

Artemis nodded thankfully to the barkeep and hoped the words sank in. He turned back toward Yusukai.

"Not only that, but how can you know how the man you are apprenticing for feels about you? You met him once, not to mention that it was during work hours. From what I remember, the shop was quite full. You walked right past me."

Artemis laughed and put his hand on his friends shoulder.

"Give it some time, my friend. Things will fall into place, and you are a good man. I don't think your master will dislike you once he gets to know you for who you are. Not to mention that you have some of the best work ethic I've ever seen, if our last mission was any indication. Military precision is the only way to describe you."

The dwarf hung his polished glass above his head before grabbing another to clean. Before he began, he leaned forward a bit toward Yusukai before speaking just loud enough for him and Artemis to hear.

"Ye know, I have a special tea in the back that's hard to come by nowadays, but it was still hard to find even before the recent happenings. Ye seem like a good lad, and yer a friend of Artie. I tell ye what, I'll go fetch ye a hot pot of that tea in place of yer generic Salvarn stuff, and maybe that'll put ye in some better spirits. I'll share a cup with ye. Not every day ye see a dwarf drink tea when ale is readily available!"

Artemis and Harki both shared a laugh, hoping to light the mood. They both looked over to Yusukai to see his response, then looked back at each other. Sharing a smile, Artemis nodded to the dwarf, signaling him that the tea might be a good idea. Sitting back in his chair, the vagabond rested his elbows on the bar, leaning forward. Letting out a sigh, he smiled, looking forward to not only trying this tea, but hopefully lifting his friend's spirits.

[Yusukai_Hyakureiki]

A Dwarf made his way through the snow-covered tundra of Berevar. This region, vastly unexplored, was home to a very special herb. The flower known as Seer's Glory, Thanacika Sunnikus. Fetching the order for the denizens of Knife's Edge was a tall feat to accomplish. The Dwarf's powerful body ventured through the frozen ice-land with unending courage. Heroic, he was the last of his team of explorers. Now, Seer's Glory was a rare flower with many potent properties. One of the properties was the capacity to induce visions that transcended the rules of The Firmanent and Antifirmanent. These visions were possible futures, possible pasts, and something else all together more frightening. For this attribute, men went through the wild-lands of Berevar to seek it deep within the mountains.

No simple journey awaited those who sought Thanacika Sunnikus. Even as the Dwarf closed in on the final leg of his journey, the fellow felt weariness in his very soul. Finally, he saw the ledge that contained the precious cargo. Moving forward through the blistering winds, The Dwarf made his way towards the growing flowers. With the roots and petals of the flower, a special tea was brewed that was well-known for it's medicinal capacity. Furthermore, it's taste was sublime. As the Dwarf harvested the flowers through a special technique of Herbalism, he was unawares of the predatory eyes that observed him.

So focused was the hero on his task, that when the first attack came, the creature from the darkness and cold wasteland of Berevar scored a quick hit. That was not enough to fell the well-armoured Dwarf. Drawing a two-handed battle-axe, the Dwarf turned and faced his stalker. What he saw was a terror! Standing on several sets of legs, the creature moved against The Dwarf with nightmarish speed and grace. The thing had long, lanky arms which ended in powerful talons already dripping with The Dwarf's blood. The Dwarf continued to counter the creature with his masterwork axe, a weapon made out of truest Pravalida. For only the brave and well-prepared could survive on the frozen wastes of Berever.

Lunging with its taloned hands, the creature moved against The Dwarf's momentum. It was tall, and had a vertebrae-structure that rooted up from an insect-like lower body. The whole thing was a harsh gray colour that allowed it to blend in with the stark white environment. Luckily, The Dwarf had managed to harvest enough of Seer's Glory that he would be able to make a fair gold piece off the bounty. But first he had to overcome the challenge that lay before him. As The Dwarf worked to vanquish his superior opponent, there was a momentary pause in the battle. The Dwarf turned towards Yusukai and stared directly at him.

"Yusukai Hyakureiki, become The Hero you are meant to be..."

Blinking several times, he felt his spirit largely uplifted. The vision faded into the depths of The Seer's Glory Tea. Yusukai studied the murky substance but realized he liked the flavor. It was not ale, so the Paladin was not violating his the tenants of his teachings by drinking the tea. He knew however, that Kajeenith was a clever bastard. He worked to undo folk of their own free will. Kajeenith was a manipulator, one who was quite skilled at what he did. The thoughts of Kajeenith's temptations were always on Yusukai's mind. With great power, comes an even greater responsibility.

Yusukai felt better thanks to his friends. He looked at Harki and smiled at the large Dwarf. Then, he turned his attention towards Artemis. The two had been conversing ever since Yusukai finished dinner. Yusukai worked on the final remnants of the meats and rice he had ordered. All tasted extremely well, grilled on an open fire in the back area of the chamber. Yusukai sipped some more of the tea and felt his body relaxing with every passing moment. He felt more comfortable with the situation at hand now that he'd put food in his stomach. Artemis was wrong on one account, the people of Salvar needed Heroes. I will help lead a new generation of Heroes... Yusukai turned towards Artemis Eburi.

"I'll split half the gold for the tea. It was well worth it. I'm glad that I was able to sit here with you tonight Artemis. You are a good friend. I will need support in the coming months, this will get exceedingly more difficult after tomorrow."

Dreading his first official work day, Yusukai still felt good despite himself. His chances of success were equal to the rest of the members of the workshop, and he knew that to be true. He simply had to focus on the job and ignore the fact that his teacher would be a total asshole. The vision of The Dwarf still haunted the back of his mind. He wondered exactly why he'd been shown that of all visions. He understood now that he was being treated to a very priceless herb. A part of him, the logical side, wondered how much the whole thing would cost. Deciding that he was going to worry about that later, Yusukai kept his eye on his friend even as he continued to eat.

The conversations in the pub were still going on. Many Dwarves were still visible as the hours passed through the night. Yusukai was impressed by the organization of the business. He'd never been to an all-Dwarf locale before and this was a good experience to him. As he thought about the matters at hand, someone pulled on his shirt attempting to alert him. Yusukai turned around on his seat to see a handsome female Dwarf. She didn't wear a beard. Yusukai studied her, she wore fancy armour, a cloak, and her hands were in chain gloves. She had blue hair and hazel coloured eyes, her skin was fair toned. Overall, she was beautiful. Yusukai pondered her for a moment but before he could say anything, she spoke.

"Hey, you're the new apprentice working for Master T'sazur Xem'k, are you not?" She asked.

Dyne sighed, word apparently traveled fast in these parts.

"Yes I am." He said calmly, keeping his poker face. "Is there anything I can do for you?"

"I just wanted to warn you. Don't get on Master Xem'K's bad side." She said. "He is well known to be brutal against new Apprentices, sanctioned or not."

Yusukai's face became serious.

"All though I appreciate the advanced warning, I think I've already offended him. Thank you though for the kind words."

"May I sit with you?" She suddenly asked. "You look like you could use an uplifting moment." She said. "But I don't want to impose..."

"There is no imposition my friend." Yusukai said. The stool next to his person was empty anyway. He moved to move the stool so she could sit on it. "Please, join us. I am Yusukai Hyakureiki. And this..." He pointed to Artemis Erubi with an elegant gesture. "This friend of mine can introduce himself on his own." Yusukai said with a grin.

[Taskmienster]

Closed and moved at request...