Tuesday, May 26, 2015

Lore: Knights of the Round Table.

    "All for one, And one for all"
There is no per-recorded history of the Round Table's earlier history. Some say it was founded by Eden Oda, others said by her son, Ethan. Who was trying to find his place in the world, besides the life of a royal legislature. As of today, the recordings of their deeds are myth and legend, and left up for interpretation.

The knights came from all over, Each one has their own history. Others wanted to start their own history. Their names are as follow.

Leader- Ethan Oda
1st- Michael Akechi
2nd- Hadrian Toyotomi
3rd- Kyle Shibata
4th- Tyler Maeda
5th-  Mhairi Nightingale.

There are other knights of the round table. But these six knights are the more famous ones. As each one played a part in history, both the good, and the bad. Their motto is, "All for one, And one for all" they fight for the people, and answer only to the crown. Sometimes they might sell themselves for the greater good. But that is their way of life, As Vorador puts it: "No good life is a good one, just a more suitable and stable one at that".

They make their base at Vigil's Keep. Away from the vices of the capital, but to the dismay of the city leaders of Amaranthine, who wish they don't play politics, and stay out of city affairs. Usually this causes friction, but ever since Eden Oda ascend the throne, that kind of talked stopped, even when a figurehead was place on the throne, the people of the nation still answered, and believed in the Oda clan.

Monday, May 25, 2015

Dark Reign: News Update!

Thank you to everyone who is loving the story so far. I am just about two more chapters from finishing up. As of now when i reach chapter 10. The story will continue in the present day. During Ethan's time.

Also more lore posts will be made to keep everything up to date and up to speed.

Stay tune for more!


Friday, May 15, 2015

Character Bio: Montross

"There is no right and wrong, in a world gone mad"- Montross
Montross was born into the life of a trading family, for many generations his family held a massive amount of respect from the world over, with their huge navy of trading ships. However that soon change, after his own mother sold the deed of the trading company to the kingdom of Drangleic, believing it would help them. Instead, the High King and Queen took what's there's and spend it on lavish entertainment and projects.

The family then went into bankruptcy and soon only Montross was the only living family member left. He joined the Drangleic Military academy in an effort to not only seek revenge but to learn the ways of a military leader. After his time in the academy he became a mercenary captain and later on commander of the vanguard for Eden Oda's army.

He respects Vorador but dislikes Tharn and Ocato, calling them: "Snakes in the grass" and therefore should not be trusted. He loves the military more than the political engine that drives nations like Drangleic forward, no matter who is on the throne.

He holds high respect for her, except her regency, only for her military capabilities, and for her daughter, Elana Oda. The only person he really dislikes is her only son, the Demon King, Ethan Oda, who he calls: "A fool among fools" for his far-fetch forward way of thinking.

Soon Montross, would be called to world shattering events that would shake the very foundations of the country. And he just like the many other characters within this universe will be at the center of it.

Lore: Council of Lyons

"This council's main goal is to ensure the peace and stability of Osea"
The Council of Lyons, is a group of various lords, regents, duke's and duchess from across the lands of Drangleic. Every once a year they meet in Angelholm's council chambers to preside over political matters of the land and to ensure what laws are and should be necessary and of course, laws that are unconstitutional. Plus to hear civil court matters that people may have.

This council was established after the death of the High Queen. Without any royal blood to rule the throne, a various group of people gather together and formed this council, with the facade that they have royalty in them, when in actuality they are just regular common folk, eventually word got out and soon, a power struggle of common folk and royal alike occurred but only for a brief time till Eden Oda officially recognized them as equals. As she states, "This council was created by the common man, while we of our noble birth fought against each other for scraps of land. Today! on this day! the caste system is no more, we are just about as equal to a farmer and a shopkeeper rather than some god or ancient hero".

The people who sat on this council are elected for life positions, and are appointed personally by the ruler of Drangleic.

If stalemates were to occur, then a special session called "Conclave" was to be held against the two factions. One pro group and One con group while the king or queen presides over the meeting along with her advisers and the Lord Chancellor in a locked room within the palace as they debate over the issue once and for all. With the leadership of Eden Oda, Conclave rarely happens if not at all.

Lore: Period of Uncertainty

Period of Uncertainty
"Whoever wins, We Lose."

Background

The era forever called, the "Period of Uncertainty" is a nice way of saying, a Civil War era.  This lasted from 1482 to 1500. For a whole 18 years the country knew of only war and death.

This time period occurred after the death of the High King. Without an able successor, and a villainous queen many of the royal houses took up arms against their former liege in an attempt to "save" the kingdom from total collapse, which in reality is just a facade to build up their position and strength in the land.


For a long period of time that lasted for many years, the country of Drangleic. Had no ruler, only a council to keep the peace, however the presiding council members were either corrupted officials or people who just didn't give a damn about the priorities of the land and are more interested in favoring the war to their own satisfaction. Therefore the land and the people within it suffered. Not to mention raiding barbarian tribes made the situation much more worse for the people of Drangleic

The period's high point occurred when a young noblewoman in the Southlands. Eden Oda, took up arms and proclaim that the period will come to an end. And the next era would be an era of peace. For a time the other houses just laughed and brush off this upstart, but soon they found themselves at her mercy or her allies. Slowly but surely she conquered the provinces one by one, and soon around the summer time of 1500 AD, her armies breached the capital city of Angelholm and the city came under her control.


Reason? And Aftermaths

Many of Angelholm's scholars came to a similar conclusion. The High King at the time use to be a man of such strength and vigor, but in his later years he became "dull and boring" as his former wife described him, all he did in his later years was have his advisers preside over country meets and political matters hence the unstable regions and the raiding barbarian tribes.

Some scholars believe it was the lack of heirs, When it came to fostering children, the former High King had no such luck. Some say it was a curse, other say he had bad eggs. the women's guild believe it was the matter of him not being good in bed, or having this weird issue of having things 'dirty' which was odd for a king. Either way, this kind of behavior eventually caused the kingdom to self-imploded and on his deathbed, he declared that the kingdom will go to his wife. Much to the chagrin of everyone, because the truth was obviously clear his wife was clearly a pretender and a manipulator. She wanted the throne above all things else. Her life and luxury eventually became her downfall, her former guards eventually threw her out the highest tower they could find and without any children of her own this caused strife within the Imperial Court this led to the creation of the "Council of Lyons" which was established soon after to ensure peace and stability.

Thursday, May 14, 2015

Character Bio: Vice Chancellor Ocato

"If the right policy is right, then why not?"- Ocato   
Ocato is a pure blooded bureaucratic official. He believes if the right policy is right, then why not? hence the reason why the Lord Chancellor has more authority or even power than any other chancellor within the empire. And also why just about everyone really hates Ocato's guts.

He hasn't have many friend, rather enemies. Including the Imperial Majesty herself. Not for political reasons but mainly, "Why is he still in office?!"

He wants to ascend to Lord Chancellor status, but really lacks the zeal to prove himself and usually retreats behind a wall of political backing and what not...what do they call it? oh yeah! pure governmental bullshit in other words.

Character Bio: Sophia Dryden

"We fight to preserve the peace"- Sophia Dryden
Sophia Dryden was born into a very well-known but very fierce noble family of Drangleic. Her family for many generations always stick their noses into things that they shouldn't or clearly have no understanding of, only to gain political favors and position of power.

During the height of the "Period of Uncertainty" era. She assumes command of the Warden's a group of ancient heroes from all walks of life and their job is to defend over the far cold northern parts of Drangleic and keep an eye out for raiding barbarian hordes.

She heavily dislikes Eden Oda, not for her ability or even be a proper royal woman. Just the fact it was always her own personal approach to things that really ticks her off.

Teaser: To Commander Montross

Montross

By the time you read this letter you will have receive your payment, and thank you for keeping us informed of the daily activities of the corrupt political engine that drives this decrepit kingdom. Before you start panicking this letter is in a dead language, So I will personally assume that once you translate this you will understand what this letter says.

 Anyways, Commander Dryden, Tharn, and many others have sided with the Anti-Oda faction. We just need you, now I understand her royal majesty, Eden Oda has praised you and even called you at one point her equal on the battlefield. However, those times are dead; and this is the new world.

Bewarn of her two children, especially her eldest child's wife, she has hidden foresight, Do you know the old saying about how the bare feet of someone is always hidden? you can say the same about Lady Butterfly's character. I know, you will laugh at this particular statement but please be weary.

Act quickly and make a decision soon, or we will move on without you.

- Godfrey
 

Character Bio: Serina


"I will follow him. To Hell and beyond"
Lady Serina or Serina Oda is the wife of the Demon King, Ethan Oda. She fostered him two children and stuck by him through his most dangerous times to the best of times. While many disagree with the particular choice, none can help but respect Ethan's decision. Serina, is also the "auntie" to Lady Elana Oda, Ethan's sister and confidant.

Early Life:

Lady Serina was born into a noble northern family. During middle period of the Renaissance Era. She was gifted and talented. Amongst her peers she was a force to reckon with. She was nicknamed "Lady Butterfly" for her extreme beauty but also for her fragile human will.

She was good at horseback riding, archery, swordplay, art. During her teen years her father tried his best to find potential suitors, but all were rejected by her, at one point she stated to her father, "I am waiting for the flames of beauty, to consume me. And take me away on a lovely adventure through Hell".

Meeting & Marrying the Demon King: 

When Eden Oda ascended the throne at the end of the Renaissance period. She revealed that she has a son, who is the prince and is looking for a bride. This spark a new venture, but into dangerous territory for the Oda clan was known for their political and military strength.

Serina's family, including her. Paid a visit to Angelholm. To meet this so-called "Demon King" and see if the legends were true. During the visit they witness many consorts trying their luck. However, Serina caught Ethan's eye. And soon they both got married.

Character Bio: Elana Oda

"I want to be my own person, unlike you". -Elana Oda
Elana Oda is the second daughter of Eden Oda and sister to Ethan Oda. Nicknamed, "Lady Raven" for her mysterious aura, not much is known about her.

She possesses similar skills that her mother and brother has. She however wants to be completely different from her whole family altogether, much to the disappointment of her brother, but much to the anger of her mother which they always argue over.

She is at the proper age of marriage, but doesn't bother to court anyone. However despite the drama in her life, when her life is down and miserable she always look towards her brother for guidance and care, unlike her mother who is cold heart and bitter.

Character Bio: Ethan Oda

"Patience is a needed virtue, in a world gone mad". - Ethan Oda
Ethan Oda is the first child of Eden Oda. Nicknamed, "Demon King" for his sheer brutality against his enemies both on and off the field. Much like his mother he possess great foresight and ambition, not to mention he is an able fighter just like his mother on the field of battle

However unlike his mother, he irregularly cares for the political machinations of the country and is more concern on the local level, much to the dismay of key people within his life. He is also an adventurer much like his mother when she was his age. In a way most people consider Ethan Oda to be an exact duplicate of his mother (of course excluding the gender difference) for everything she has done during her young years is almost the exact same thing Ethan is doing now.

He owns a steed named Shadowmere, and is also in love with a very beautiful woman named Serana, aka "Lady Butterfly".

He hopes one day to see the chaos end, and live out the rest of his days in peace.

Character Bio: Lord Chancellor Vorador of Drangleic

Vorador:

"It appears fate has chosen you for a higher calling". - Vorador
Vorador originally was a secluded scholar in the Dark Forests of Drangelic. He would transcribe ancient runes, and read people's destinies, and even offer aid and consul to those who seek it. When Eden Oda arrived to his mansion, he was impressed by her sheer foresight and ability to adapt and survive no matter the cost.

Originally he gave her, like what he gave many of his other visitors what they wanted. This changed with Eden Oda and eventually he departed from his estate never to return and instead helped Eden Oda achieve her ambitions and dreams. Once Eden Oda became the "Anointed One" she appointed Vorador as the Lord Chancellor of her kingdom and from then on he oversees the daily political activities of the kingdom both the good and the bad.

During wartime he is considered a master tactician and acts according to circumstances, but he rarely fights on the field and acts more of a relief effort.

He is also the caretaker for the two Oda children, but more particularly with Ethan Oda, due to the fact he sees a lot of his mom in him rather than her second child.

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Character Bio: Eden Oda

Eden Oda:
"I will do what is necessary for MY kingdom". - Eden Oda


Early Years

Eden Oda was born into the aristocratic family during a time of uncertainty, she didn't like the political machinations of the kingdom of Drangleic and therefore didn't want to be part of the world shaking events. When she was called to lead the Oda clan after her father died, she accepted it. But had to prove herself to be a leader and she was.

She was a youthful child. Full of life, and dreams. She enjoyed everything life has to offer, she was bold to try almost everything, legal things anyways. Her educational years were brilliant she was seen as a gifted student, and a natural beauty. It was during her early years her father and mother were assassinated as part of a conspiracy. Without a home to go to she was soon adopted by another family. A close family to the Oda's soon when she was able she left to join the military academy.

Military Years

At a suitable age of 21, she joined the Drangelic Military Academy. Which she showed excellent leadership skills, and swordplay. On the battlefield she was not only a capable fighter, but also a capable leader. Able to adapting to any and all circumstances at lighting speed.During her time at the academy she met a man name Daniel Cross, the two, eventually fell in love, and had two children. However, this didn't stop Eden Oda from completing her ambitions. She gain fame for defeating the barbarian horde and driving them back into the wilds.

Years as an Adventurer 

"I must seek the answers, that is unknown to me"
After her years in the military. She soon went on the life of an adventurer without really knowing why, she stated countless times that it was for the "thrill" as she grew bored of her dull life in the military. However after a time of adventuring she returned back to her home country and started once again to rise towards the top to become the most important person in Drangleic.

Reign as Regency

"I will bring change to this nation for the better"
At the age of 60, she finally went into the life of politics and there became an able politician able to peer into the minds of her political opponents and assert total control of the political situation that is before her. With this in mind soon she was anointed as Majesty or Queen to the nation of Drangelic. Some say she won through legitimate ways, other say she schemed against her opponents behind the scenes.

During her reign as Queen, she anointed Vorador as Lord Chancellor, She trusts the Lord Chancellor Vorador above all others within her council for advice. As she puts it, "There is so many snakes in the room, and only one angel".

Also during this time she was given the nickname, "Snow White Queen" for cold heart personality to her enemies and sometimes friends and even to her children if need be. Plus for her sheer beauty that puts other women to shame. When she became Queen she discarded her original nickname and was newly named, "Snow White Queen".

It was said, she dabbed into necromancy to keep her youthful appearance. Although the sources are very vague. Or dead. Either way the men regarded her as a goddess amongst man, while the women of reality were put to shame.

Later Years & Death

Legacy



Character Bio: Info & word of warning

I will soon start posting character bio's. These are the official biographies for the characters of the Dark Reign Universe. It will of course be updated and changed as the story goes along.

Now these images I have used are meant solely for you (the reader) to draw up your imaginations of what the character might look like in the Dark Reign Universe. They aren't 100% exactly what the person looks like but if you believe it's a good match then that's great! happy for you!, but for some it might be a different story.

This is the only time I will say this, and will not repeat myself in any blog updates.

Teaser: To Princess Oda

My lady,

Your mother, and brother are quite worried. You are able to wed someone now, and yet for every man we sent to you, they come back empty handed usually crying or upset. Yes, I understand marriage is the last thing on your mind, for you personally want to spend time with your family before setting off as your mother describes, "Doing the right thing" but what is the right thing? I will assume this letter will be torn up and burned in your personal fireplace.

But bear in mind the concerns of everyone, and please. Find that perfect man before it's too late.

 Regards,

Lorenzo aka the persistent asshole.  

Teaser: To Prince Oda.

Your grace,

After many weeks of searching, I believe we have found the answer to your problem. Now I understand that love is a beautiful thing. But the woman you are in love with is the scary part. You know personally I might add, who or what she is! and yet you are just like your mother. I mean after all it didn't take long to put two and two together: The late night adventures, the fact she is never ever around during the day time and if she is, she wears some serious protection against the sun. I don't need to or anyone else for that matter needs to spell this out for you.

Look, seek out the wizard. He will be expecting you personally. Don't sit this one out, and don't act brash towards the situation. Treat this as a solution not a cure. Because if your mother or the Holy Church finds out......well let's just say your life will be a merry one and short.

Regards,

Lieutenant Donovan.  

Teaser: To Vice Chancellor Ocato.

Vice Chancellor,

If you are reading this. Then you know what I want. I have gone to Al-Khali in search of this so called weapon that can turn the tides of any war, ever fought both presently and in the near future. I shall trust the deputy aspects of the nation to you. Instead of Tharn, who I suspect to be a traitor to the country.

Make no arrests, Have tabs put on him at all times. Tharn is involved with another faction, for which one I do not know. But many things in the recent weeks seem too coincidental. 

Also do me a personal favor, send my children to the Vigil's Keep. Under the care of Commander Templar. I trust him and every soul in that keep to safeguard the best intentions for the country.

Sincerely,

Eden Oda, Imperial Majesty of Osea. 

Teaser: Letter to Sophia Dryden, Warden Commander

Warden Commander,

It seems that our plans are finally bearing fruit. We've made contact with the locals in Tristam. They have said what we came to a similar conclusion, the weapon that is hidden beneath Al-Khali is or was important. But also dangerous that it will practically hold any nation hostage to the will of the user.

However, I suspect that the former inhabitants of this mighty fortress also foresaw future nations and groups attempting to come and claim this weapon. We have seen the damages, so many armies, many men and women alike...even children were subjected to the vices of ambitions and the darkest hearts of man.  

I would gladly say we should turn back and live to fight another day. But if we are so close now? why should we turn back? I know what you are thinking, and I know your answer. Bear in mind though our secret war with the rival orders are only leading towards one conclusion: Civil War.

We must obtain this weapon, no matter the cost. I suspect her royal majesty as young and brazen as she is will attempt to also seek out this weapon for her own uses. To spin the war into her favor and dominate over all.

Regards,

 Scout leader, Holstein.

Teaser: Letter to Lord Chancellor Vorador of Drangleic

Vorador,

It has been several weeks now since I have arrived at the port city of Tristam. The people who fed me and gave me shelter informed me of the dangers of the roads to Al-Khali. Those roads were said to be occupied by strangers to these lands in search of....something. If I am correct these are the same people who came after me and my children. And if I am also correct the ruins of the great fortress of Al-Khali is occupied by these same people, or perhaps not?

However, I should be ever so lucky to suspect the latter. Ah Vorador for many years you taught me to honed my skills not as a warrior, not as a leader or a commander, heh not even as a mother. But a woman of volition to be strong for my children and for my country.

Vorador if  I were to die before my time, Leave everything to my son. I am just one of many heroic women who've come and gone and I shall be no different.

Sincerely,

Eden Oda, Imperial Majesty of Osea.

Friday, May 8, 2015

Blog News!

Three Bios are up for viewing.

For now, it will be these three. Eventually more will be up. It will be a while before you see the actual stories in place.

Like i said before, i want to build the framework for this amazing saga. Eventually the "Stories Blog" will get it's own copy of the stories. But not the Bio's and the lore and everything else. That will stay on this blog. The Stories themselves those will be copied and transfer over.

Welcome!

This is the Dark Reign Blog.

Throughout the course of this year, i will created at least 6 story blogs. Filled to the brink with at least eh 20 chapters per each story (I will see how it goes). In addition spin-offs will be made. And Bio blogs will be made.

Since i don't have great artistic skills. I will use various images across the internet and use them to not really give a 100% exact look to the characters. But at least you (the reader) will get an idea of what the person may look like within the story.

Also in addition. I will create lore blogs on the world's mythos. From religion, culture, country, animals, equipment, locations, and more!

I will start off with character bio's since i will need frame work for the stories. Each blog post will be under a particular "family" blog like for example, "The Franklin Family Blog" And from there each of those blogs will have lore of their own.