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Author Topic: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption  (Read 1655 times)

Alan Hunter

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Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« on: January 14, 2021, 04:11:06 PM »
Author's Note: This is a internal journal in the view of the character Jack Wilson. Reflecting his mentality and thoughts. Errors of names or places may be genuinely the way he sees. I like to thank those involved in Jack's story and his progress especially to DM Brimstone for granting me the opportunity for this character progression. For Brimstone and others involved this is an update and consistency in events in Jack's life since the last time he tried to save himself. I hope you will all enjoy.

Little over a Month has passed since Jack attempted to find his cure and the results were all right. Though it temporarily relieved him it had also killed him in the process only to be rejuvenated and for a brief few minutes know the feeling of redemption. It was a feeling unlike anything he knew and it was magnificent. And yet the horror of the curse refused to permit him freedom as it forced him to consume the remnants of his expelled sins. Try as he might this was the third time a cure was made to relieve him of his curse. Alone in the Mists away from Monsters and people Jack could memorize the memories keeping his own internal journal of things past and present.

This day Jack sat under the old gnarled tree where it all began looking to the spot where he had died and killed the four outlanders. Uncertain why he came back here the feeling that invaded him didn't leave. Try as he might in redeeming himself and doing what is right Francette Vaillant the day prior the fourth day of the week reminded Jack why he hated people so much. Torn between Yue, Ophelia, and his love ones wishes for him to do the best he could that day among the nobles of D'Espereance, Francette Vaillant, Voltz, and Creighton reminded him how cruel people were and why he despised them so.

Though his outburst accusing others of villainous acts they saw them as heroes but though they accused of knowing him and of cannibalism that torn felling seem deeper now more than before. Three times he attempted to be cured his first was a of a Doctor with a half mask a unappealing female of Dementliuese who offered to assist him to only have her put the to the guillotine for doing unorthodox medicine. In comparison there was domna Vinter a gnome Jack knew who has done some questionable things undermined the law of Barovia yet here in Port she was revered and respected.

Shaking his head Jack compared all these uncertain of the world. If he was to redeem himself by acts of good why do many deny him? Why do they accuse him and not ask the truth of the story? Many people had cheated death by lawful hands. Others fleeing to other lands to begin a new life so why was he denied the same right? True he went under the name Nimir as to not draw suspicion or frighten folk yet if they knew whom he was why did they not strike at him? Why did they not try to help?

"Because they only care for their world. They're cruel because if your not a part of their world you can be removed."

Trembling the swell of fire in his veins was sharp like rods of molten steel Jack felt the flush redness on his face. The rage, the fury, was harder to contain and it scared Jack because he knew he was torn from the man he was to the man he is now. In the past people feared him and respected him even if they didn't because he would not hesitate to harm others in defense. Now because of his loved ones Jack tried not to be that man a better man but the people in this world were as cruel as the ones he left.

"Nothing will change Jackie boy. Even if you were cure you think they forgive you? Even if you were good to them you think they would care for you?" spoke the disembodied voice of his father.

Startled Jack stood up looking about the mist recalling the memory of his father's voice. The anger in the old man was the anger he had now. Eying his hands Jack wept shaking both from anger and fear. Jack knew little of his father but knew he hated him for leaving him and his mother and did not want to be like him.

"Anger's strength my boy. You can't protect nobody by being nice in a cruel world!" spoke again the disembodied voice of his father.

Spiraling to face the direction of the sound Jack screamed in fury to be left alone. Momentarily pausing questioning if the Curse or Mist was messing with him or did Jack simply felt he was losing his mind again. Shaking with anger he couldn't relieve of himself of the rage. Each time he recall the names and faces of those who hurt him whom wronged him Jackcouldn't find a means to forgive them.

Try as he might Jack could not begin to fathom how he would prove Francette and them wrong. Challenging a woman to a duel seemed ridiculous even though he was dishonored. Thinking of it only made him clench his jaw struggling to think of better reasons. Even if he were to press charges through the Gendermie he was a foreign citizen they wouldn't give a damn against a noble. Roaring he pounded his fists in the ground outraged at how futile it was. Jack intended to make Ophelia proud and he promised he would make a good life for himself and it only made him furious as he punched the earth chunks of rock and dirt tossed aside making a hole.

If Jack went to the village provided them with free tools and steel the people would be grateful. Jack could prove to Francette he meant no harm. In truth she would be cruel and warn the villagers of the suspicion of him being a cannibal only ruining the reputation he would have briefly built. Gripping a root from in the hole he strangle it with his bare hands infuriated that not matter what people would still be cruel to him. Even if he was truly cured would they look at him still as a monster.

"It isn't fair. I'm trying to redeem myself. Trying to do good things. Roland Steele's a Knight but in Barovia we all knew he caused the problems with von Khorvich's. Renaud was a vigilante and they look at him like some saint. All I did was do what I needed to survive I ain't even a real Cannibal. I'm cursed eating the hearts of things like Hobgoblins and monsters. I eat other monsters refusing to eat the hearts of people. And yet the Monsters aren't cruel to me like people are. They act cause they has too." Whimpered Jack as he broke the root in half shaking.

Another disembodied voice one sounding of Jean Renaud spoke harshly to Jack from afar."That's because you are a Monster that thinks its human. You'll be nothing more than a Monster. "I swore I would kill you and if I can't others will."

Turning around Jack felt a chill to the bone a fear as the memory of his execution by fire by the Ezrites and all of the outskirts play back in his head. The faces of those who betrayed him and those who only wanted to kill him. "I'm not a monster.... I'm a man. I'm trying to be a good man. I'm not a monster."

Cowering to the ground holding his head Jack knew when he started hearing voices the Curse was getting worst. It wasn't going to leave him it knew Jack wanted Revenge on all those that wronged him knew his greatest strength was the fury with in him. Having not feed for almost a week Jack had struggle to eat real food on the worst cases he ran to find demi-humans or a hag to feast on their heart. Even as he cowered whimpering the memory of the succulent organ was a like a child who wanted a juicy apple.

"No... No!" Wrestling with his thoughts Jack recall the memory of the brief moment of Redemption.

The clarity, clean feeling, free of all worries it was a feeling he could not describe to any one as it was something a soul felt at true peace. Collapsing the man broke into tears as he wrestled between the peace and the fury with in. Lance Marino's words haunted him now considering the only person powerful enough to know of curses and lift his curse was indeed Count Strahd. Indeed the man was the strongest person he knew and yet the one fateful encounter with Strahd cause Jack to shake more in fear.

Long ago he acted above his station to protect the good people of Vallaki and the Garda. This drew attention of the Citadel to inform Count Strahd whom requested Jack Wilson personally. Knowing the stories and having heard it from the lips of many and even Molly the Vampire. Jack knew Strahd's true identity never the less the man was ruler of this land and was powerful enough to do so. Never did he forget the cold calculating eyes of Strahd. The Count's very form was empowering to men at the icy resolve and confidence he showed to Jack. When offered a reward for turning in a villain of the people he was offered anything and Jack only wanted to be accepted as a Barovian.

The Count had looked at Jack with disgust. "You could never truly be Barovian and you never will. So do not ask such ridiculous things beyond your pitiful measure."

Firm and cold Jack knew had he pressed the Count would have done away with him. When that sly smile rose and the Count offered to treat Jack to dinner Jack groveled in apologies to decline his offer that he was unworthy of the Count's generosity and was fine with whatever he offered. Though it disgusted the Count he was indeed amused and tossed a sack of coin at Jack and to leave his Castle at once. Jack never knew true fear of anything till that day and the memory reminded him well enough to risk asking the Count for aid was a death wish.

Rolling onto his back red eye and puffy Jack knew if Strahd knew of his curse he would force him to eat his enemies or reveal the secrets of his power. To be forced to eat people would defeat the purpose of trying to redeem himself. Frustrated Jack held his face screaming in frustration into his hands and the Mist filled air. Returning to Vallaki empty handed and jobless would be a disappointment to Ophelia. There had to be a way or some one who would hire him. Who could help him further. Yue was alone trying to help him and most of those he cared about lacked the ability or knowledge to cure him.

Pausing parting his hands in though he recalled Iridni. She was a Pelorian but some explained to him she was part of something called the Erudites. So was Jean he recalled when he had paid some one in the Drain to find information on the man some time ago. Erudites were the smartest folks but they were in Port. A low growl escaped Jack knowing port folk would not be so humane to help him. The only well known place of knowledge was the red Academy even then Jack wasn't that stupid to let some Red Wizard fiddle with his Curse or insides.

Growing infuriated there was little options left to him and Jack felt he was burdening his friends the more he tried to seek a cure. Sitting up Jack knew his choices were limited if he didn't do something in time the curse would over take him. Even then he vowed he would not harm anyone he loved or innocent that he would seek those who wronged him and anything threatening him and what he loved. Getting stronger ran risks as Jack knew as he got stronger so did the Curse. But, using that strength came with a price of his humanity and the good intentions of those he loved. But, to defeat those who wronged him those that would harm what he loved strength is all he knew.

"I tried being mean. I tried being kind. Can I do both?" Jack puzzled.

Part of him wanted to go back to Port and rip those Nobles apart and part of him wanted to forgive them for being so naive of him. There had to be more he could do to save himself and if the world would make him their monster they had had themselves to blame. Having tried both ways there was only going hand in hand. To redeem himself he needed to do good things and he like to do that more than being some monster. Rising to his feet the Curse Brute lumbered towards the direction of the Vistani Camp clear in what he needed to do now.
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #1 on: February 24, 2021, 07:08:08 PM »
Snap, Snap, Snap, Snap.

In but a month or so so much has transpired Nimir couldn't help to feel depress and somehow not realize it. The wallowing of pity for himself, the undetermined disappointment of Sheep baying their continuous prattles. He wondered if Vampires saw them as simply cattle to be herded and slaughtered? After a few days ago Nimir had snap nearly gave himself a chest attack or something. The Outlanders broke down his barricades which Nimir used to protect the graveyard, his daughter's favorite work spot, from Werewolves, Undead, Gunderkites, and stupid Outlanders. But, none of them admitted they did it for the fun making an excuse to make sure Ophelia was okay even after Nimir warned folk of the Undead Hands. Disgusted Nimir continue to work this day on the wooden lamp pots the few to light the path of the graveyard for night considering the change of events.

That night he was on a bad precipice of finding himself slipping to madness and depression. Nimir thought he finally lose control and not care anymore taking his own life and the curse with him and with so many. Now it pained him to think of it the man revered and feared once taking his own life. Shaking his head as he lodge the post into the ground through the soil and rock Nimir chuckle to himself at how stupid that was. The very last straw was Kiyosa he had no hate or love for her but if anything Nimir was a man of his word and a man who respected action. Red had help him save Killian a stray outlander in the Mist a week ago. In this action Nimir wasn't sure if he Redeemed himself but he helped the man desperate to find his friends although the fool ran running screaming through the Mist even after his warnings till the mist took them the wrong turn to Perfidus. It all went down hill when the demons came down upon them when Nimir warned Killian to not rest here for the iadul spawns were always hungry. Sure enough the man was killed and Nimir managed to run back through the Mist taking any and all risk back to Mist camp.

At first Nimir thought he leave the sod for getting himself killed. But, Iridni's voice bugged him. "Perhaps through actions of Redemption and Good you may find that feeling when you were almost cured." Considering the Pelorian's words and the words of his closest friends Nimir recalled their love, their warmth, the way they gave him life as he was almost given his. Recalling that it was simple for him to decide. He wasn't doing it for the goody-goody feeling or because it was right. Nimir was doing it for them. Even though later on Killian would insist that Nimir had good Morales which bug him to no end. That's when Alondra and He asked domn Red for aid. Given his history with Red and Kiyosa he doubted he would help but surprisingly Red did. Confused they saved that man Killian and Nimir had to admit he was wrong of Red for taking a risk with a monster like him. The man never did give Nimir any reason to hate him but he was weary of his girlfriend, friend, whatever Kiyosa was and their relationship.

Never the less Nimir swore to Red he would cause him nor Kiyosa anymore trouble. He would not badger her if he was left alone. How short that was a few days later when he had build a little settlement in the Mist all for his friend Tinu. Who through her words and listening to his sad tale of depression and his courageous act in saving Killian convinced him of many truths and many better ideas. Tinu, there were no words for him to express his gratitude to the small elf woman. She could stuck him with arrows till he looked like a spiny demon and yet she did not. Her reason shocked Nimir to his core and made him weep with joy like a dumb boy. She understood Nimir. Understood his pains like few did. Tinu inspired him to not give up to not be whimpering anymore and use what he had for the right purpose. He was who he was. He was a man, a father, friend, and all around decent guy. She told him it was time to be Angry not wicked but Angry at those who cross lines and at those monsters who would hurt those he cared about or do wrong against his hometown Vallaki. She was right and he was going to do something about it. . . . somehow as soon as Nimir figured out how to do that right and better than just punching things.

Though the invigoration of inspiration was great that same day Kiyosa had cross his threshold to speak with him. At first he tried to avoid her wanting no confrontation Nimir was too good of a mood to deal with her nonsense. But, unavoidably the man had her in his face in seconds. Sheep were always insistent in being notice even though the wolf in sheep's clothing insisted not to be treated as such.... or was she a dragon. He probably find out later or sooner. Though Nimir tried to reason with her the best way he could their back and fourth in trying to understand another seemed to only upset her more with moments of genuine interest and calm to out right threats. But, something feral got into her and she had to hit Jack with a headbutt unguarded to assert some kind of female dominance. The man had to laugh to let her have her victory had Nimir retaliated the situation would be worst and he could clearly tear her throat out and pull that heart of hers right into his mouth. Hesitantly the thought did bother him some times it slipped in especially since he had been hungry for a few days and had to make a run for the hag, hobgoblins, or trolls. The effects of these things were equal but the taste and the work was not delightful. Shaking his head as he continued his work in the graveyard for the next lamp post he recalled how triumphant Kiyosa looked and felt with her foot on his chest.

It's that dumbness? No, over reaching? Too much confidence in her that's going to land her in trouble if not get her a short life. It amused him in an almost wicked way most of these folks who wish him ill in the past were dead or gone. Not Galt though Galt better not be dead for Nimir owed him two fold for all he had done and yet if not for his friendshe be dead. But they did not get him murdered yet if Galt didn't do as he done he may not have learned more of his sickness or be so close to his family and friends now. Feelings to sort out later he thought. But, it was a good feeling to watch those that ridiculed, hunt him, killed him die before him. Though he hoped for Red's sake Kiyosa would wizen up before that happened. Nimir didn't mind if she met her untimely demise early on her own mistakes it wasn't his problem nor were they friends. They all learned that way. He learned that way. She learned that way.

Thinking again at his sudden hunger most of his strength was stolen or rather given. Thinking to himself as he worked more in cutting wood Nimir couldn't help ponder had Nock not shown himself he probably let those three people get eaten by the Vampire and the Demon woman. It irritated him so much how easy it would of been. Then Ophelia's smile seeing her friend Nock bugged Nimir and knew if he let Nock get eaten she be sad and he hated when she was sad. That night he intended to fetch wood in the forest in the night and normally people wouldn't expect a Barovian going into the Night. For a lot who shamed Barovians of their superstitions this superstition that Barovians can't rise beyond their limits is insulting. He had to work hard to maintain the Graveyard it was after all one of his few joys other than Forging. If he didn't work constantly the thoughts came in his mind and being angry made his will to ignore the Curse stronger. Although some times the wrong Anger made it worst. Needless to say Nimir thought he was heroic offering his life and bargain to the Vrolok. Very few understood or had insight like he did of Vampires and right away Nimir knew how he could handle the situation and this Vampire. He barely got to walk away with his life and what was his and Ophelia's precious graveyard was safe. That's all that mattered a lost of blood build a few coffins done deal. Or it would have been if that girlie skulking about would have left rather than skulk to watch him and the vampire.

It was most likely her who started the rumor of him consorting with Vroloks. Him a grave keeper and Barovian who sacrificed his life for folks and the only gratitude he got was saving the person that was important, Nock, and yet she repays him but soliciting rumors of him consorting with Vampires. Nimir hammered down the new sign with irritation and anger. The woman didn't even thank him in saving her life and she repays him by mixing him with a Christian who gave his life to save others. I guess only important people deserve to be recognize for heroism and it burned Nimir to blistering anger that he- Eyeing the broken sign he mutter working on another plank muttering to himself in Balok. Nimir hadn't felt this way not since his youthful days in Vallaki. At least then when outlanders got out of line a man could slap some sense to him or wave a pitic around like a stupid puppet on a pike. This generation was to soft naïve to the horrors this world could truly inflict. That he could- Muttering of his sickness Nimir knew the situation, hunger, and the situation was making him stupid angry and he refused to be like an outlander.

It shouldn't matter to him either way even though the Crow rejected to help him on odd reasons Nimir would speak with the Garda and offer five hundred fang for the Bounty. The man just didn't have the patience anymore of stupid people's reasons to act stupid. Finishing his work Nimir growled muttering of eating soon or his patience would be thinner than bad Tocana. Maybe Nimir would work on something for Ophelia and he did need to find iron for a young man's gauntlets. Working was his peace, its where he thought when he worked to create things, the tranquility of it all working hard was very Barovian. That put a smile to his face thinking of the past and wondered how Rodica and Dragomir would handle these new outlanders. The thought of little Rodica curb stomping some dumb arse made Nimir chuckle and how Triscea forced him to build and Lupei who taught him Balok. Nimir felt old as he quitly and slowly work in thought of it all. The man never prayed but he recall Ophelia's Kelemevor and asked the god of the Dead to give him some peace soon that his friend would find his cure and if not Nimir had to tell her he was ready to depart and leave it to the Mists to decide.
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #2 on: March 15, 2021, 06:17:30 PM »
Fear

Nimir had return to Vallaki in hopes to see his daughter Ophelia instead he helped fools on his travels back from Port. In this he knew he was faltering that he was hungry it had been a week since Nimir had fed and his condition was worsening more or less. He had redeem himself with good deeds offering the Garda information on criminals and chests of steel weapons and armors. Nimir was even proud of his good deed in turning Kiyosa from foe to friend and they had rapport even Nimir didn't realize. Down the Slovich Road to the old abandon inn Thieves terrorized the roads. He was wounded for helping the weak against the ogres and his will was thin a veil of fury and hunger. When the first arrow sunk into his chest in his badly wounded state he lost all sense everything went black and then red and all he felt was the burning fury of justice in his heart along with the fuel of hatred. Unjust by the acts of these feeble tigans striking him and trying to rob him what was worst they gloated in how weak Nimir was. How weak was he? It broiled in him since the Pignose orc and his gundarakite wife humiliated him. Strength he remember his quest for strength and frighteningly Nimir consider he may need that for all the things rising.

Never in his life thus far had Nimir felt powerless and the feeling of injustice to him. When he was feared they mocked him but were afraid of him when Nimir stood now trying to do well and honest they mock him and disregarded him. Lately the destruction of the graveyard fueled him with a reminder of fury when those in the post use to mock him and were soon dealt with. And yet he was afraid the curse knew these and unleashed itself showing him what he could do. Lunging at every thief every man Nimir plowed his ax and sap to each man's skull in a blinding fury. But, it was not enough instinctual he knew they hid below in the abandon tower and so finding the hatch he opened and delve inside.
At firs they were surprised and they screamed like sheep fleeing a farmer in their pent for the slaughter. A part of him could not help but smile the depth of darkness in him enjoyed their squirming and bleating and yet for Nimir it was like watching himself outside in the horror he committed.

Gore strewn the floors of the cave and some of them men lost their hearts the same. Nimir relished the copper tasty the thick gamely flesh of the heart and in turn the curse fueled him with life, robustness, strength. And yet when the carnage should of end after his first heart the body remembered when it use to eat human hearts and Nimir felt he could not come to his senses after one and so the predator loomed from room to room chasing men fer the sport of it and the sheer dominance of it. Inside himself Nimir could only weep at the horror he could not control and frankly it came to him. "There are those who don't serve to be rewarded with kindness. Some evils need to be destroyed and not with a gentle hand." Tinu's words reminded him these were those kinds of evils but they were lesser. All the thives needed were a scare not a slaughter but for the man Nimir his will could not reign in his curse nor the curse blood that demanded more hearts it had been denied so long.

When all said and done it was night time from morning as he stood outside below the dark sky starring up to it in tears. Hunger had made him reckless and yet it had in its own way showed him much of his curse and his feelings. There was injustice in his life and seeing Galt at Mist Camp only reminded him that he needed to be strong for those he loved and for the town he adored. To be the "Brute of Vallaki" he needed to be stronger Nimir had to stand for what he loved and cherish and if the curse helped in a way so be it. Nimir would not allow the curse to claim him yet for when it did he did not know what would change though he knew his love for his would never be altered not by a curse nor anyone. For now Nimir tried to redeem himself burying the dead and offer them a proper burial as his Little Grimm Flower taught him. Soaked in the blood of the fallen one could not say such men were innocent but they deserved better than dying like animals he thought to himself as he lumbered his way back to Vallaki.
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #3 on: March 21, 2021, 03:55:44 PM »
The oaf sat alone in his room at the Trusty Ox the bed groaned under his weight as he thought to himself alone. Guilt rid Nimir/Jack's mind as today was his brothers day for the Circus. But, a road to redemption was not an easy road as Nimir thought to himself on all he saw and transpired in the party. Holding the steel dagger in his hand admiring his work plans had came to insult the Gundarak soldiers by offering them each a dagger. But, one Lazlo took kindly to speak with him than cause Nimir trouble even gave an honest opinion on his views . The feelings were confusing as they turned his mind a part of him was growing sinister the other compassionate the constant flux of two sides of Nimir fighting for his soul vecced him so. Though he was not a smart man people called him wise maybe because he seen and experience so much and he shared it freely. Originally the plan was to slight the Gundarak Army with the daggers and up charge them fees double he charge any for his steel. Yet Lazlo and he shared words and opinions and frankly Nimir could not blame him or the young fools for fighting for fairness Nimir knew.... Jack knew the turmoil of judgement and wrongful injustice. In the same the injustice they brought to his home the wrongs their actions brought on others to which they do to him and his Vallaki was stilk an outrage. Rubbing his face drowsy and tipsy from the drink Nimir instead merely watched them and entertained himself with Lazlo of Gundarak and the memory of thier conversation.

That didn't stop the thoughts of the people and names he saw and heard during the party. Who was the special guest? What were the Fopps doing in Berez? This was more than just him beating up an outlander or a slob of a fool. Jack was no hero.... if only he was ever to folk was a monster. Yet his family loved him so and lately his thoughts of departure guilt him. Jack had waited long for a cure or words with some folk and frankly time had pass longer than he like. Having broken once in the few months past msde him was worried he break again. Nimir felt torn for tomorrow was Kiyosa's wedding and he had to wake early to fetch wood. Perhaps time to digest everything his eyes fell upon would bring clarity and time to think in what he should do. The mist was calling him the brimstones that burn under him were calling and time felt ever shorter. There was much to do and much to consider for if he were going to go it would be fighting. Nothing was ever Black or White nothing was even Grey it was always Brown like shit. Nimir had to find a suit... he may just fancy his coat a bit better at the tailors and  get some logs for Kiyosa and Red's wedding.

As the Gundarak army folk Revere in song of "Viva La Quandary Republic" his heart ache for those Gundaraks he recalled and help as friends . Little Antonia, Cara, Lady Erzebert, Domn Jon, and the few that didn't make it at the port. He knew of oppression but he didn't agree with the work these Black Army were doing. For the plight of Barovians was always difficult especially in Vallaki with the threat of monsters and outlanders. The struggle to pay the taxes owed to the Count, Outlanders successful in an outskirts than the citizens in a slum, deplorable works of people upset of the Xenophobia of a people some barely cared to know or live as. How the Gundarak's worded it. "Poorly trained and easy to infiltrate. They were Ill equipped and unable to defeat superiority." The Barovia he knew grew soft they had open the doors for Outlanders and Foreigners and in kind this is what became of it. Albeit Jack knew he was not truly Barovian he would not forget the Count's words they day Jack asked to meet his hero. "You will never be Barovian, you can never be Barovian, I am the land. My Rule is Law. Those weak with no strength will never rise." Count Strahd was a strong man and though he was cruel his words always rang true with Jack something he forgot pursuing his cure and becoming weak with fright. "I wanted to be strong. Tinu was right. Denyin' who I am is a lie. It's weak. I am Jack Wilson the Brute of Vallaki. And they're gonna know it one way or another." Slamming the steel dagger to the floor with a wicked snap of his wrist it embedded itself through as he lay back in his bed considering his work for Kiyosa's wedding.
« Last Edit: March 23, 2021, 06:48:19 PM by Alan Hunter »
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #4 on: March 30, 2021, 09:55:59 PM »
Injustice! (The thoughts of a Cursed Oaf)

Nimir paced back and fourth in his room at the Hotel in Port with the stupid bear. Events as of late had gotten him infuriated in the injustice he saw. The injustice of his lively hood, injustice for his folk in Vallaki, injustice of the the country he loved and endeared. Candle light dimly flicked casting an eerie low orange glow against the bandage wrapped visage. Seeing Nandru in Port shocked him even more he was no longer a Lance Corproal a good guy like that toss aside.  It made ole Jack ache seeing a good man like that gone from Barovia. Though Nimir had no idea why Nandru was gone or left it wasn't his business and clearly risky to make it his business knowing their history but a part of the old oaf felt for him. Anger seeped in waves as he paced back and fourth wishing his brother Yolven was around or he was back at the graveyard with Bell to make sense of these feelings. Uncertainity ate at him as Nimir paced back and fourth guests beside him probably angrily cursing at him for the noise the large oaf was making.

Stomp and Stomp his feet went trying to think in putting th pieces together. These kind of thinkings weren't normal for Jack nor was it something he often cared about. Being smart wasn't a good skill for him or being wise and sagely neither. The man had more street smarts and hearth wisdom than anything in some book or formal teaching. That didn't stop him from realizing the unfairness of the inflation of prices nor the injustice the Fopps have caused for him from Port all the way to Vallaki either. It was just infuriating to find they finally got the pitic gnome Katja under a bounty and yet overhearing them in their fancy tongue and a friend translating made him all the more furious. An injustice was done to Barovia and the Fopps didn't even care. THey wage a war with Rebels believing in Freedom and Liberties and yet openly and decietfully took their own and complicated their lives.

The Fopps blew up Mount Baratak with the Sun Kissers, The Fopps made deals with the Gundarak Army, Their nobles and retainers is going to secret meeting and providing this army, they support criminals into their country and hide them. None of this was fair and none of it should matter to Jack/Nimir but it effected his life, it effected his lively hood, it pissed him off. Some one had mention a Artuous Whoregrief or some wierd Lawgiver who defended those wierd Courtney Sisters who most said were Vroloks, Vampires, and if some one could defend Vampires surely they could defend him. Recalling Faermound's words the man was part of the Red Vardo and he had seen the Captain in Vallaki who came from Port. Nimir needed that man if anyone knew how to speak Fopp Topic it was that guy. The only problem is every Fopp in the Terrace disliked Nimir and blame him for their attitudes. Not like the damn Fopps took responsibility for outcasting him or accusing him of falsities which is funny given Katja and Creighton's now current situation.

Pausing Nimir considered what Yolven once called it and slapped his forehead a few times. "Uh, it was a forge joke. Right, Irony." That made him laugh a little Yolven was smart like that. Often the oaf was surprised at how smart the man was it was like they were the opposite of two coins.

Resuming his pacing Nimir had to figure all who would help him defend Vallaki? Who would help him against the Gundarak Army? Frankly few people gave a damn about Vallaki but he could con newly misted to help even though they most likely be told otherwise or put up to the slaughter. If he tried to rough folks up the Garda would say he was above his station and he couldn't right just volunteer to the Garda. He doubt some one or anyone would care to have a monster on their side. Aggrivated Nimir would growl infuriated and frustrated in what to do. There were ideas and most of them were bad. The gendermie wouldn't do crap. Fighting on their side would cause problems. Not like the Fopps would give a damn they... and it dawned at him. Fopps have people. The Ouvrier suffered much like Barovians but their Fopps weren't all asses. A wicked grin formed on Nimir considering the, Irony, of it all. If the Fopps got away with crimes in Barovia. If the Fopps got away with stuff on foreign soil then why couldn't he? He wasn't a citizen worst case the Gendermie banish him. Even worst case the Fopps pitch fork him like a made well dress Barovian Mob.

The image made Nimir laugh as he shook his head. The downside it would effect some of his friends and especially Yolven. He had to talk to Yolven because what he may do would effect his brother's standing. A gang he needed a gang some one smart as his right hand man and some one wise on his leftside. Yah it might work he needed to talk to his most trusted friends and advisors and see what they think. Nimir needed them more than ever and he knew, felt, the Curse was winning little by little in his mind and his heart. Being weak and helpess wasn't serving no purpose to him and in the end the Curse and him both wanted to survive.
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #5 on: April 01, 2021, 02:40:08 PM »
Ole King Coal

Nimir sat looking up at the waving mist with in its lands scournging for herbs. When he was working his mind was focus and clear Nimir could consider all the things in his life that transpired. For him a new employee/friend came when offering aid to a stranger for redemption. Coal, Jestian, if Tinu liked the fella then Nimir had no reason to be mean to him. Besides the Darkling already proved to Nimir he was a patient and hard worker let alone listen to his frustration with the Fopps. Hells tolling Bells he even wrote some fancy words on paper notating his words for... History Nimir considered as he pluck some Ezra Mantle. Emotionally Nimir was feeling better and it had been awhile since the Curse force him to feed luckily when the time came he was quick and wanted to avoid losing control again. The struggle was real and the horror was real when his anger rose the Curse got stronger even more so when an injustice to him rose about.

Considering some things he didn't understand why he felt some of these things were personal but even Nimir as oafish as he was could tell they were wrong. Sure No one like Barovia but no one ever walked the shoes or culture of a Barovian as he had. Though he acted Barovian he knew he was no true Barovian, strahd knew he was no barovian, and some did too. Even so he was raised in Barovia in the Slums of Vallaki the old oaf smirked plucking another herb considering the Rat Catcher Luca his old buddy who got him into bodyguard work in the Gaping Wound or Aska Ma'For the drow who got him into underworld workings. Reminiscing how far he had come since that day and the many lives he seen go by sadden him. So many were young to him and yet so strong it infuriated him and in the same time humble him.

Such thoughts consider how Evenin' squirrled him for the Admantine but knowing the Caliban needed four thousand fang and given his newfound respect for the man it was no sweat off his back. Nimir discovered he can smelt Adamantine easily and now it was the challenge to gather it and make his own equipment than paying the outragous fees folk charge these days. Though Connor did make a fair offer for twenty thousand to forge anything. It was the next step for him and with the goal in sight he needed to find a better job for money and resources from other folks. Nimir also knew his time was growing short and he could feel the strength of the Mist its call reaching out to him. Pausing clutching his chest Nimir knew the brimstone of fire was calling him back. The gift the mist gave him to live was calling its own back. It was both frightening and exciting because Nimir did not know what it will all bring.

TRaining himself and vowing he would never hurt his family and what was selfishly his was strong in his mind, heart, and soul. To those not Nimir was certain would suffer whatever became of him. If luck had anything to do with it he simply disappear but the so call "Time of Peril." was a sign he had seen before and Nimir survived many times the mist took all. This time though Nimir knew it be diffrent for him and what was paid and borrowed must be payback in debt. Most fear the Mist but Nimir knew it was its own thing and if there were any real gods among them it was the only God constant in this world. The Mist took folk and kept folk so why wouldn't some one consider it a God in a sense compare to all these other folk preaching of thse invisible gods and goddesses? Sure they can do wierd vraja things but if anything the Mist shown what it can do and maybe its just mad that people fail to see that. Maybe with in it is the Paradise of after life everyone was denying cause they was scared much like to Death.

Death, the thought reminded him of his precious Bell. He needed to speak with her and make sure she was okay and that she had a lump sum to help her when Nimir was gone. Brimstone and Soul burning with a raginf fire the Fury inside was always a constant reminder. When Nimir could no longer hold that ire and the Fury of this Fire so he would be put together in all his entire. Smirking plucking more herbs Nimir knew soon he transpire but till then he enjoy life and offer those of injustice his ire. Laughing at the intelligent rhyming the old Oaf Nimir wonder if his brother Yolven was rubbing off on him and prayed he too was doing well and will live well when he was gone.
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #6 on: April 07, 2021, 03:40:27 PM »
(Corrupted Darkness)

Nimir felt himself all about the places of his mind. Sitting alone in Bianca's Inn within one of her rooms he pondered back and fourth in the room muttering to himself in Balok. Having caught sight of d'Espereance and his Gundarakite friends in Port irritated him. What could he do? What can he do? Here they are giving grain to the Port Poor for families in need it was a good thing. But, that grain came from Barovia and came at the expense of lands taken from Gundarakite Rebels. How is it fair that Port steals from the lands of Barovia to feed their own with grains from their lands stolen? Why is it fair for d'Espereance to commit crimes in their lands but not thier own? If he were smarter he find a way. If he were well verse in Port Laws he find a way. There had to be a way to stop all this injustice to his people and land. Nimir couldn't help slapping his forehead a few times sighing wishing he was as smart as Yolven. On top of that retturning from Port Nimir had come home to the ransacked Graveyard behind the Morninglord temple his poor Ophelia crying in tears at the destruction. The poor lass also had to contend that she lost her first and ever true love to the mist. Why? What did the Mist have to do with Irach? What purpose did he have for the Mist? Pacing Nimir was beside himself in ideas but not good ones.

Stomping into the Drain with no Credit and no recognition would only get the ire of other Gangs. Although his family and friends insist he be smart about who else powerful would back his corner. There was the Red Vardo but everyone knew with the Red Vardo there was a price and its not like they would stand beside him to fight against the Gundarkites or Port. Growing angry the man twisted his Bandanna in his hands frustrated in what to do. Matters were worst given Nimir was starving a man had attacked him and Ophelia thinking they were an easy mark and Nimir put him down quickly. Enraged at Nasir for appearing to annoy them mockingly with his lichy Vraja and this git had him almost lose it. Ophelia had to shake Nimir from trying to eat the downed man. Trembling eyeing his shaking hands Nimir knew the Curse was getting worst. Redemption or not it was a battle everyday with it and everything else. At some point he acted fine but entirely he was not time was growing short and he felt the Brimstones broiling under his feet the call of the Mist growing. Putting on his bandanna Nimir stomped out of his room and went outside walking to the Southern Forest.

Ignoring the threat of Neuri and other monsters Nimir approached the Mist eying its swerving movements its calm and yet eerie appearance calling out to it. "I don't know what to do. I need to be stronger. I want to protect my love ones. Tu gave me life. Molly gave me life. Together yah made me into this... monster... thing... I don't know what I am anymore. I know I asked yah fer life dat I didn't wanna die unfair and unjust. But, ders so many tings unjust to me and de tings I love. I love Vallaki. It's been my only home. I love my family and friends who gave a damn about me where no vun else did. Tu took Irach from my only family I call daughter. She weeps for him and she weeps for her dead disturbed. I want to be stronger.... If I eat the hearts of peoples I get stronger but its not enough. I want to be a good man, I wanna redeem myself from de bad things I done wrong but my anger and dis curse/boon whatever yah gave me ain't enough. I dun know why yah spared muh life why yah gave me dis boon. But, tis goota be used fer good. I got to protect demn. Der mine! Tu ehar me Mist! Der mine! Nu tu or anything here gonna unfairly take vut es mine! I earned it! They care for me more than any other person in dis rotten world or the other world ever did! You brought me here to tu vorld! Vhy?! Vhy am I here?! I'm tired... tired of de injustice and de wrong done to me and mine. De people of Vallaki don't deserve anymore sufferin'. My family dun' deserve anymore sufferin'. Tell me whatcha want? Tell me what am I supposed to do vit dis boon?  I wanted to be de strongest... being strong ain' enough if I can't protect or help what's mine. Tu gave me life twice.... I dunno what yah give me thrice.... I miss yah Molly and Mistman. I miss when tings were simple."

Uncertain the man left the silky mists in the Forest seeking to figure an answer. Alone Nimir walked unafraid of ole Noapte or the Mist. He respected both and Nimir felt more akin with them than the day or the folk. The rule out here was survival and Nimir knew those lessons well. Recalling his talk with Tinu considering her words. "You may be Curse. But, what you make of it is up to you. There are worst evils out there than you Jack. Maybe it takes a Monster to stop Monsters ever think of it like that?" Nimir's hands clench into fists. Denying the fact he was a monster was what made him weak. His family loved him no matter what. His friends loved him no matter what. As much as Yue would hate him for it perhaps being that Monster was the best thing to good he could do. It had to stop. It all had to stop. No more. No more will what he love be unfarily and unjustifiably hurt. Hurting what was his was hurting him and no one hurts Jack Wilson and gets away with it. He'll make Vallaki his own turf. He'll make those newly misted his own and defend it. Regardless Nimir had to do something wallowing around wasn't going to do anything. Nimir had to make those responsible for his sorrows pay some how. Justice was brought for his sins why won't justice be served to the sins of those who claim rightousness who have committed crimes. Angrily Nimir stomped to his favorite hunting grounds and decided it was time to feed him and the curse.
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #7 on: April 08, 2021, 04:15:19 PM »
(Pride)

Stepping away from the cold hills of the Ice Palace Nimir felt uncertain by the friendly atmosphere of the Red Vardo company he left. Sadly having a feeling to elave them early Nimir hoped they return safely and that he had impress his new employeers. Of all the groups to join the Red Vardo was surprisingly an odd choice for him but given all the other choices he sooner join the Red Vardo over some of the foolish outlander groups about. Even so as a Red vardo Nimir never concieved he be one of them. There were many stories and experiences personally he had about the Red Vardo and some of their actions. However as it stands there was much he could not do alone and Nimir needed fianances and allies if he were to pursue the goals Nimir wanted. None the less it was pleseant hang around them but it was all business after all.  Surprised him to see among their ranks was Blaine but in all honesty Blaine was cut out for merchanting and getting to the big top it wasn't a bad idea. They would act like insurance for certain things too if Nimir played it right. THough playing along with a gaggle of Tigans wasn't ideal it would maybe offer the protection he needed for the graveyard.

Pausing along his jaunt down the mountain nimir had to consider how Ophelia must feel. Rubbing his neck Nimir knew she may not be too thrilled with him joining the Red Vardo. But, overall seeing her cry and weep made Nimir soft and Tyras was right that Nimir couldn't go down the Drain alone to hassle a lich or its moronic individuals. Though one thing remained clear Nimir had to confront Nasir not for the good of the people. Nimir couldn't care less what Nasir did to folk all he gave a damn was his and his own. Even the lich could comprehend that from one monster to another. Deals it was always Deals to be done bargains to be made exchanges for things that was business and Nimir understood business. Even a Lich has things it wants and those had prices so a friendly talk with Bonehead shouldn't be outside the workings of a deal. Though it seems those who have power or get power tend to become arrogant and sometimes really stupid. For Nimir that was a constant with a lot of folks in this world and frankly it was one of the easiest things to exploit. It was one of those traits you learn in the Slums of Vallaki to survive that everybody thinks their big till some one bigger or smarter got to them. Hell Nimir was victim to it countless times and for sure he knew these rules were a constant. Resuming his march back to vallaki Nimir had to meet up with the Red Vardo see about that interview, talk with Bell, and eventually talk with Nasir cause at this rate Nimir's hunger was going to let the curse loose or his anger and frankly Nimir had enough of both his troubles and his hunger.
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #8 on: April 09, 2021, 01:55:36 PM »
(Doubt)

Flipping a log down a hill in the Mists Nimir, No, Jack Wilson raged growling out loud infuriated in the news he had recieved. Everything he considered was a lie. Everything he thought was a lie. Face to face with an old aquaintance Jack spoke with Nandru and knew sooner or later he woudl reocgnize him and the fear of it the partial memory of it all caused him anxiety but in the same Jack feared the man would hurt him be vengeful of the fact he cheated his execution. Instead the man did not aim to kill him but speak with him truths Jack himself could not bare. Jack's word was his it belonged to him and he promised Nandru before his death "I spare the Garda. I forgive them from my curse and my fury." Knowing the Garda ever do is their job in a thankless inconsiderate town among outlanders and foreigners alike knowing any given day their lives could be taken from them with not effort and no chance. Jack ahd always watched as Barovians like Rodica, Dogmair, Mitrea, Radu, and Nandru struggle at the helms of the Grey City in an effort to maintain the order there and the life of the poor barovians. Danya and Mirabel among them were kind and considerate to Jack albiet his Curse and for their duty they were killed, no, worst turned into monsters much like himself and it boriled in his veins the fire of his rage.

Strahd had said to him once when they had met. "You will never truly become Barovian. You will never be Barovian. Only those strong will rise and none are stronger than I." The very words haunted him and were the forge of his being. To be stronger than the Sheep. To be Stronger than fools who tried to kill him. Stronger than Nasir now. Jack held his head alone in the Mists thinking to himself. "Why did I live? I clung to my life and drank Moly's blood to be stronger and not die. To write de injustice done to me for believing a monster was kinder than the Sheep. I tried to cure myself and in the end the Curse, the Mist's gift, won't let me go. It's all unfair. It's all injust and I'm a monster among real monsters." Pacing back and fourth enraged the man punched and kick objects out of his way. Everything he did to help Vallaki to prevent the Gundarakites had no purpose now. Strahd took Danya and Mirabel. In which hurted Nandru. Which in turn hurted him. Jack didn't believe in the cause of the Gundarakite Army but if it meant hurting Strahd. But, strahd was the Lord of his land and was his Hero. Revering strahd for his strength and ruthlessness to survive was something Jack admired. But, now what was the point? Scratching his head taking off his brown bandanna Jack couldn't figure what he needed to do. Alot of things were not right and he was just one man a single monster in a man's skin. No he was still a man for if he was a monster then he would not feel.

Turning the log over he sat on it considering his options. Talking to Yolven would give him help but in the same doing so would endanger his brother who would foolishly rush in. Karis is a Hunter but fighting Strahd like that would get her killed or worst. They had their lives to live all of the and he couldn't drag Yue into this she was too good nature for the type of work Jack was going to be involved in. Already having impress the Red Vardo it put his foot in the door to things that would benefit him and frankly Jack was considering in buddying up with the Gundarakite Army. Atlthough the later would be more in support than working for them Jack didn't like the fact that they were literally the saps and dogs of Port Lucine who was reaping the benefits of this small war on Barovia. Strahd may be a jerk but the people didn't deserve this turmoil they didn't deserve to suffer anymore. Gtabbing his head Jack couldn't even understand it all anymore. If he fought to protect Vallaki it would benefit Strahd who harmed Danya and Maribel who in turned harmed the Garda he promised to help. This was too uch for the Brute to comprehend and peace together and frankly far more complicated than Jack initially wanted.

First things first was protecting the graveyard and getting Nasir to leave it alone. Beating the crap out of his Necromancers would be a solution but that just draw more attention than needed. Going alone was suicide but the Drain didn't know Nimir Rodovan other than a gravekeep and a guy who sells wares to avoid taxes there. However the Drain wouldn't forget the Brute of Vallaki, The Eater of Hearts, the Defiler of Templars and Souls Jack Wilson. But, even Jack knew comming out like that would cause trouble too. Though First things first he had to protect his Little Grim and Her Graveyard. The child was suffering from the lost of the Mist claiming her love Irach and sooner or later the Mist would claim him in return for the life it had given him. Outraged Jack Wilson roared out to the mist angered at all the events uncertain what he was supposed to do.

"What do you want from me?! You took my Girl's love for what? I asked for my life and drank the Child Vrolok's Blood and breathed in the Mistman! The Mist entered me and made me this! Yah gave me life! I tried to enjoy it and feared what I was becoming! I'm not a man and I am not a monster! I wanted to be strong! Stronger than them and anyone that would hurt me and mine! I felt Redemption I tried helping people like domn Kai who got lost in your Mist! I helped so many people better themselves and survive and yet I can't even help my liddle girl and her graveyard! What am I supposed to do? It's not enough! It's-"

It dawned on him. Jack realized what his father said to him then. "One day your gonna regret yer descision boy. One day yer going to come screaming to me. Lie to yourself all you want. You're a monster. No good man kills those boys or kills his own mother. You're more like me than you admit. Accept the rage inside of you. It's a part of you. It's what makes you strong. Hahahaha. You survived this long because of your anger and your too stupid to see what it does for you."

Blood boiling Jack crashes his fists into the log. Again. Again. Again. Blood caked his fists and he slammed again till the log splintered in half eyeing his bleeding fists shaking with an indominable rage. And yet there was a calm a clarity he realized thanks to Yue and his friends. "I deny the curse. No, es nu a curse anymore. I wanted to go back to being human. Being weak cause I missed things because I was scared. I ain't a monster. I'm diffrent. I always been and is diffrent from the Sheep. Maybe it's wrong to eat the Hearts of other people. Strahd drinks the blood of people to survive. I eat Hearts to survive. He toys with the lives of people cause its fun. I ain't a monster like him. I'm my own monster. I chose whose heart I'm going to eat. My anger tellsme what to do. Not the Curse. This was the Boon the Mist gave me for giving me my life. To not eat is to die. To over eat is to become everything I fear in becoming. I'm sorry Ophelia Mist Daddy might become scary. But, some times yah got to be scary to scare the bigger things that scare yah."

Turning out toward the mist with a gutteral roar that was almost inhuman Jack Wilson belowed. "I dun care what I turn into! I dun care what price yah make me pay Ole Mist! I'll become yer monster some day! But, you'll never take away my choice and my love for my family and friends! I'll fix what's unfair and unjust be me a Monster or Jack Wilson! I be me and I vow on what's left of my soul that's good! I'll make those pay for the injustice to me and mine! I won't rest till Vallaki is safe and its good folk dun suffer no more! I won't rest till I know my family and friends is safe and dun suffer! I'll make Port pay for harming Vallaki and the innocent Barovians! I'll make anyone pay that hurts me and mine! Even him! Even you! If yer de damn god of dis place then show me some Mercy and help me! If yer the damn Devil in this place yah already given me a boon so what is one more if I can do what's right and be at peace!"

Gripping a chunk of log in both hands the Brute hurled it into the Mists angrily his rage giveng him focus and clarity. Jack knew what he had to do and the First thing in order was saving his Graveyard and saving his Liddle Grimm. No one nor anyone would make his Little Girl cry and if it meant going toe to toe with a Lich then with or with out friends he do so enraged and striking fear into that creature and any in his way. Jack had buried his anger, his Fury, for far to long and now it was time for a newer generation to remember the Brute of Vallaki Jack Wilson. Walking through the Mists the oaf turned towards the Mist Camp seeking those he befriended those smarter than him for answers he needed to do the things that needed to be done to right the wrongs done to him and his.
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #9 on: April 19, 2021, 03:48:40 PM »
(Fool)

Angrily Nimir/Jack ran amuck in the Mists scowling at the sudden changes in his life. How was he to know the events unfurled when he had died. Let alone the things that now changed his view. Dove had him speak with Nandru and the man was as kind if not changed from the ordeal of his Execution. Nandru had changed he had seen th evil of Vallaki and the Evil of Strahd. Danya and Mirabel were victims to the Count's little games. They ahd become the very thing of horrors and poor Nandru had loved the woman and maybe he blamed Jack for his crimes and her change. Sitting on the log he had chuck days ago Nimir placed his hands upon his face confused and alarmed of the news. To make matters worst Nimir couldn't rightfully blame the Gundarak Army. Though he disagreed with some of their actions they weren't wrong of the Devil Strahd. Nimir... no Jack owed them nothing anymore. The promise he made to defend Vallaki stood but selling out the Gundarakites wasn't something he was going to do anymore. There was no point. Port finally got that criminal D'Espereance so there was no point for him to seek revenge for the damages to Vallaki. The Gundarakites have not made a move through Vallaki. What was he purpose now? What was Nimir to do now with no fights left to fight?

Things had change and thanks to Prigdush opening his eyes Jack knew from those words. "Jack is Jack no? Why deny being Jack?" Who was Jack really? Was he the wicked man he was before or was he the tender soul aiding those he selfishly cared for? Frustrated the man grunted in the middle of the Mists. He was at peace here and able to clear his thoughts more. The Curse would claim him and he know this time there was little his friends could do to stop it. In time he would become the horror he feared and frankly PRigdush was right. "Who is Jack? Jack is Jack." Those words plagued the man. Wether the thing that was his father in the mist was right that no matter what Jack did he was a monster what was the point of resisting? And every time Jack thought the faces of those he loved and cherish came to his eyes and he knew fighting to be him was important to be the kind and strong man they knew.

Even then... what purpose was Redemption if he had nothing to Redeem himself with? Would he be corrupt in joining with the Red Vardo? Would protecting Vallaki be enough or would it cause trouble again for him? The dolt always had trouble with these kind of complicated situations and really wished Yolven, Dove, or Tinu were around to clear things up for him. All he had left was Ophelia Bell and her Graveyard which a stupid skeleton named Nasir kept ransacking. Jack's grip on the log cracked bark and the thought of those Necromancers and Nasir defiling his precious Bell's Graveyard enraged him. As the Mist as his witness if he died curse or no he come back as a Grimm and make all those who would defile such a sacred place regret. Any who would harm his Vallaki that what was his who unjustly harm him and his own would pay. That was what all he had left Jack the Monster or Jack the Defender or was it Jack the Monstrous Defender of Vallaki. Either way something had to be done and something had to change and oaf stood up stomping his way back home to Vallaki.
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #10 on: April 29, 2021, 12:58:40 PM »
(Lost and Renewed)

With in the Mists Jack felt whole felt himself. The large oaf set fourth wooden and stone tombstones of friends passed. Upon one large Nharov oak wooden plank decorated in fine sprigs and etched with the name Lazlo he poured brandy to the soil for the makeshift shrine. Ophelia had taught him of Kelmevor and the Grim. The dead were important and Lazlo was the last kind gundarakite to him in Berez. Atop the wooden shrine lay the twin of the Scimitar he promised and Jack/Nimir could not find himself to leave it undone its blade etched with fine filigree and markings of Gundarak. Beside Lazlo Shrine was a shrine for Danya and Mirabel helms of the Garda set atop their wooden and stone shrines decorate in the markings of the Citadel. They were kind to him as well though Danya had the horrible task to report of his Curse and for Ole Jack to burn. The man never blamed the Garda for doing their duty. The man never blamed Nandru whom even now came to him cautiously. The secrets Nandru shared of the truth of Danya and Mirabel haunted him although Jack couldn't find a means to blame himself it was all beyond his scope and awareness.

Told of Strahd and his power to change Danya and Mirabel upsetted him. But, it reminded him of the first time he met the Count. Jack was subservient he heard the rumors knew the truth from other vampires Jack had met in his life. He left with coins and knowing fact the man held power far beyond and he had survived. Part of Jack wanted to fight Strahd for the harm he did to Vallaki his home and part of him simply didn't care for it was his land. Knowing this Nimir thought visiting Lazlo and considering aiding the poor Gundarakites would be better. Alas finding his friend dead if not murderer by his own was another realization. All this war was pointless it had no substance no purpose. what did freedom mean if it came with bloodshed. Jack laughed as he lean beside the completed shrines with in the mist pouring a drink for each starring at them. What was his purpose?

Head hung low Jack had thought being a hero would be good. Using his curse against the wicked would be meaningful. Jack was small in comparison to these people he couldn't even stop D'Espereance it took time for people to realize at the end. They always realize at the end who was truly Evil till it's to late. Why did he have to care? Jack did care for those that were his. When he returned from Port after a request to meet with folk he had come home to Vallaki. The Curse ached he was always hungry but his rage helped him ignore it's insistant whinning as a Sheep who recalled him as a Grave Keeper explained how Ophelia was taken in a black carriage. Fear grasped him and Jack scurried to find Ophelia his precious Grim Flower. Ophelia was his, his family, his property and no one would ever dare take what was his. Hearing the tale he knew those taken in black carriages were taken by von Zarovich. And the Vallaki Brute would even fight Strahd if it meant getting back what was his.

Thankfully she was alive and well she had become a bit more like him in surviving and his life lessons paid off for the little woman. Jack felt a pride in his adopted child he had not had since Fox and many others hell even his own daughter. The way she grump and fold her arms she was going to be a little Wilson. The thought made old Jack laugh as he shared the experience with the shrines of his old acquaintances. So many people he knew such as friends and family had gone. Jack felt old and yet uncertain what more to do. There were so many lives that influence him and that he influenced it sadden ole Jack that he felt his time growing shorter with the curse. Decisions had to be made the Curse would not be staved off with anger alone and the more it grew so did his rage and temper. So did the hunger and one heart was not enough to feed him anymore for days. Gwyneth the small odd elf reminded him some one was feasting on corpses in the temple as well as the Graveyard. How odd were these cannibals they were diffrent from him he needed the hearts of others to live and to be granted the boon of the Mist and Molly the Vampire's blood. They feast on flesh like beasts and it made ole Jack wonder what was he? Who was he?

Perhaps his father was right he was nothing more than a murderer. Yet a murderer with feelings with an old elf friend whom spared his life with a old china woman who taught him good and to live. The feeling of always on the precipice of good and evil between corruption and redemption was perhaps his punishment his nightmare maybe even his prison. When the Curse claimed him he knew he would change. He would become diffrent unleashed and Jack feared when it did how much restraint would he have? In Jack's heart he knew friend's and family would be safe from him but not those he didn't care for. Tearing the bandages off his face Jack used his trusty axe to look over his visage. Feral, freakish, sharp metal teeth he crafted himself eyes of a predator. Monstrous was his look a monster not a Sheep like them and yet this monster was loved and it was all he needed all he wanted since he was born to be truly loved. How his father and mother abused him as a daft child and here Jack was a man, a accomplished merchant, a better father Jack had no more regrets. It was time for him to live time for him to grow into his final state nodding to himself he consider taking Blaine's offer and join the Red Vardo. There was much to prepare for much to consider and his time was growing shorter. Jack wanted to be remembered for the man he was not the monster he would become.
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #11 on: May 08, 2021, 06:59:00 PM »
(Betrayed!)

Nimir/Jack roared through the mist filled forests of the southern woods before vallaki disappearing into them. Arriving to his secret place his prefered place of solitude the large oaf glared at the small shrines. Eyeing the one for Lazlo baring the sister scimitar the man snarled shaking his head at it. "You would be ashamed Lazlo. Ashamed the army the fight you served devulged back to the ways of old. Running and bombing Vallaki. I remember when we talked you were proud of them being better and yah had me believe they were better. As much as I asked them as much as I hoped they wouldn't bother my hometown. As much as they said the quarrel would be kept outside. They lied. Why should I not be surprise. Sheep lie." Angrily the oaf paced back and fourth rubbing his neck and face angrily. "I told Duncan many times to not blame the Garda. That the Garda were merely stuck doing their jobs. They were bound by their duty or they generally die trying. Fact that boy did what he did tells me he forgot about ole Jack Wilson. Forgot what I taught him what I reminded him."

Kicking a chunk of dirt and rock far the man growled. "Then that little wussy gundarkite hiding shivering behind his wall with his folks. Couldn't even have the balls to face me down on the ground. I warned them plenty of times. I warned them of D'Espereance I warned them if their actions took too far. And now they gone and blown up my home my people. Innocent people's market and lives that had no business in their war. Course they lied. They always do. I lost the Graveyard job and now I might lose my home to these morons." Frowning Jack/Nimir paced thinking and thinking. "Not all Garda are good. But, Little Red is. They need tools.... weapons... armor... something to compete with their stupid guns of Port.... Port it was all their fault in the first place. All their fault for pushing this war in my home."

Pacing Jack was nervous uncertain what to do and sitting down looking at all the things that lay about the shrines of Danya and Mirabael he looked at the tatter pieces of gard armor and so fourth and frowned. Wide it dawned upon him and he sat removing a batter unkempt book of drawings. He was never good at book stuff but Jack enjoyed drawing and his drawins were of weapons and armors from all the amterials he had found and gathered. Of the materials of steel he learned to make from the china Man Hachi, to the Rokumo style of katans by Kikio, the things Yue told him of the methods of steel from other lands, to old Vines methods of Roman Damascus, many have told him of diffrent weapons and armors forged of diffrent processes he mastered along to fulfilll the orders of his customers. And now he was going to put that all into use to make Barovian Steel. Barovian armaments worthy to protect his town and the large oaf drawn with a gleeful heart and wicked smile.
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #12 on: May 09, 2021, 01:00:43 PM »
(Barovian Steel pt.1)

Encouraged by Karis Geiger and the Ezrite Cultist Danika's questions of what Barovian Steel would be the oaf dragged many bags tied over his shoulder and a ox filled to the brim of materials from Dverghnhiem the Dwarven Home. Had the prime needs were available at the the dwarvne home he would do it there but Nimir feared dwarvens eyes would pry upon his work and maybe claim it as dwarven right. So he trekked far up the mountain by the old Wagner Silver mine where a forge lay where almost no one but the old forger reside. It had been a long time since he had worked in this forge and it brought Jack memories of the times he use to tend to Yue when she was ill and where he and his wife once shared so many stories and children. Jack paused recalling those old years of joy away from the outlanders and people of the outskirts a period where peace found him till the Mist rolled in and claimed he, Yue, and his wife. It be months later he escaped the Mist to find his children grown and the memory of all his dead children simply reminded Nimir why he did this and why he needed to do this.

Entering the forge area he began dumping sacks of iron, silver, and gold ore to the ground along with limestone, cinnabar, sulfur, and sacks of sand. Recalling the tales of Hachi-mon domn Hachi and Hyo explained many times to Jack the process of China Man's steel when they asked Jack to make weapons for them. THey would explain the best they knew and it was how Jack knew how to make the wierd exotic weapons of china. They added the flecks of wrought iron left over from steel making into the steel adding sand and charcoal to the melting steel to make it all hotter in the large cauldron. This made the steel cleaner harder and it made Jack happy to produce wierd things like Yuri's and other weird spears. Domna Yue had explained the China making of metals from her vast books Jack couldn't read inspiring him to better make diffrent metals and adding them into steel in hopes of making better metals but Jack was not very good at it. Now though it was time to try these methods and add domna Kiko's method for the Katana who told Jack how the swordsmasters of Je-pan forged blades by folding the steel and smashing the impurities out of them using star metals and a thickening the steel by these folds but required great strength and dexterity to make them.

That wasn't all Jack remembered and knew he had love making steel it was his passion. It was something he felt should surpass standard Steel in a way and domn Merwyn and Eros spoke of the Damascus how sharp the steel was honed to a razor's edge so sharp that it would cut through stone. Yes, this was good it was what Jack dreamed of and with the war with the Black Army the Garda... Barovians needed newer weapons and armors readily worthy to fight off their enemies. Sadly Jack knew some point he would sell to outlanders but then Jack/Nimir would hide away retire somewhere peaceful away from the madness of these Sheep. The thought of it brought him peace of mind and joy to continue his life forging his one and only passion left. Eyeing the scars of his Curse body he frowned knowing well the strength the curse provided and his own rage would make him stronger and last longer than a normal Blacksmith and Jack intended to use that to outlast and use his method of forging. The Wilson method of smashing Bars of Ore from its impurities with rage til a fine clean bar was made.

The tempertures needed had to exceed coal and the only substance that burn hotter than coal was sulfur. Jack recall the mistake in a sulfur mine once by Hazlan as he lit his torch and almost burned himself alive. Luckily bellow the dwarven home there was plenty of it and cinnabar. Cinnabar made mercury used for guilding but he had seen long ago and heard tales of Mercurial Weapons from outlanders who kept asking for such things although nothing of such existed he knew in the Core. The other thing he knew of Mercury well was poisons and it was acidic and toxic when elft out in the air too long. Black Powder was banned in Barovia but Mercury made to poison or acidically damage as a corrosive could hinder an opponent. A wicked grin played upon Jack's face thinking of the prospects of his work and ready the forge heating it up with coals to melt the iron into steel bars and eventually mix the gold and silver bars for Electrum.

Barovian Steel; it would be his legacy and the weapons and armors he made of it would be more than enough to grant him return to his precious Vallaki restore himself in the eyes of many. If he was right by fusing Electrum a soft gilding metal with Steel may reduce the hardiness of Steel but by applying processes of the foreign lands and his own Jack could make this new steel that would be non-corroded and rust proof. The flaw Jack already knew it would not be light as traditional steels it would be heavy as normal weapons and armor and would most likely never be able to be gilded upon things given its hardiness. Though if the methods of each steel maker and his own forms true it would be a step bellow Adamantine an almsot impossible metal for him to aquire. Weapons would be sharper and strike stronger and armors would be resistant to damages the man thought but the weight and the amount of bars the process would make be the true problem. Though Jack did not mind all things have flaws no one thing was perfect even Admantine ahd its difficulties and rarities. As the iron melted he add the flux of sand and limestone to the mix to help purify the new stee in the cauldron. In the other he added the gold and silver together to make the Electrum.

Mercurial Flasks; Jack knew the toxic and corrosive nature of this material. How it was used in weapons he was not sure yet. Though if filled in flasks it could be thrown or if filled in ammunitions it could be used to degrade armors and weapons or at least corrosively burn opponents at most. The problem was handling the stuff and it was easier when it was cold as it solidify. Hence Jack came up to the cold mountains to figure out the use of Mercury and the additional process of putting his Barovian steel in ice cold water to rapidly cool and push out the impurities which should make a Dark Steel. Barovian Steel Dark Steel both have a interesting touch to it but he had to figure how Mercury worked in weapons. Aside from its volatile nature the liquid in his gloved hands had an odd movement to it and it weighed where ever it oured too. In flasks he swiveled it and always found it heavier at the bottom. It burned on skin but no amount of fire made it burn well it would disappear when melted in a cauldron but that made the air funny and he almost choke to death having to run outside to get fresh air. Perhaps if he added bits of sulfur to a mercury bottle as the Sulfur itself had to be kept in water skins and bottles otherwise they burn hole through his sacks. Maybe dunking the sulfur bits in the mercury would prevent them from burning since the mercury didn't burn at all. In a flask or arrow head if the contents broke open the sulfur would burn quickly faster than any fire Jack knew and it would melt the Mercury making that same funny air. Jack never could smell what it was but sure as hell he got sick quick by just a little.

Grinning wider the oaf went to work a swell of joy and pride as the curse man worked on his prizes. While the things melted he drew the plans of his toys on paper anticipating the glorious outcome. It would not be easy but nothing in Jack's life ever was though he had to remember to leave message for poor Ophelia Bell his adopted and only daughter. She, Karis, and Yolven would be the only ones he would pass down this legacy too and when he own his shop he would be finally happy until the day his Curse choses to take him. And when it did when it came to such a day woe to the outlander or fool for then he would be outfitted with his Barovian Steel and they would all know. The Sheep will all fear and know and Jack could not help but laugh out loud bellowing as he got to work enthralled to be back at the forge.
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #13 on: May 26, 2021, 12:00:15 PM »
(Peace)

Jack worked alone up then mountain away from the noise of the Sheep. Away from vallaki and away from those who would cause him strife. Working upon his perfected steel and skills. More and more isolation or being away brought him peace aside from his curse. And though he missed Ophelia and hope she and his close ones were well Jack enjoyed his peace. Though he wanted to help, though he wanted to kill those responsible, their strifes was not his and for him to move on Jack needed peace of mind. The oaf was geting old and he refused to be like the rest of them. Deciding where to own a shop Barovia would be to common to trouble and Port displeased him even more. But Blaustien, now that place was equally peaceful and equally free from the troubles of those about. There he could open shop and sell to the many passerby and locals. Jack thought more as he tempered the iron to steel hammering away considering the joys of an ilsand with drink. The occupants were also pirates and also strong and few would challenge him there or let alone care if he offered them services of steel. Biting the hand of a dealer of metal is often ensuring your own doom and the smug smile befalling Jack made him grin. There would be those who would ask him of the mist and of the exploits of others and the lazy days at the beach with a bottle of rum was very pleasing. Musing these thoughts Jack consider this more as Blaustien would make a perfect place to retire and produce his wares for those who sought it.
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #14 on: June 03, 2021, 05:53:50 PM »
(Closing Ties)

Jack looked to his things in the two sacks beside him wondering how much stuff he had. Walking through the old Graveyard and looking out the Outskirts he consider the many years he has been around. How much things have changed how much he has changed. Arriving Jack was a mindless and confused lost soul damage from his long travel from the Mist. Were it not for Druid being his friend and old Rodica and Drogmir he wouldn't be the barovish brute he was today. Even then Jack was aware of his past the murder of his mother as a naive daft boy who desired the love of folks who only thought the worst of him. Comming here was more home than anything else to the old man. Knowing the harm he caused and the deaths of many people and things Jack was also equally proud of the good he has done in Barovia and this world. The many lives he met and touch because Echo, Yue, and his brother Yolven and dear friend Karis. Not to mention the kindness of Tinu who could of chosen to slay the monster he was or even the Pelorian priest and her husband. Hell even Gult, although betrayed him, made his life to difficult to this point only for it to come to this.

Jack was disappointed how the war ended with the Gunderkites there was an inkling of hope maybe they would be diffrent hope is what made people do stupid things. Jack learned hope is a flase thing much like seeking this cure for this curse which wasn't a curse but a boon by the Mist and Molly. Jack lived and though he needed the hearts of something human to feed and live his tenacious rage willed him to ignore the dark temptations of the curse he was his worst enemy and his closest friend. Surviving this world and its frightening truths. Let the Sheep kill another let them learn its how sheep graze in the world some lived and some died. He wasn't the Butcher or the Shepard anymore Jack was simply Jack. It was Alusand who open the door for his dream to create and forge in Blaustien even gave him some fancy title called a "Head Engineer" whatever that meant as long as Jack could forge, craft, and create Jack was at his happiest and most peaceful when he was a crafter.

Working the forges for his smithing, tanning and leather working, tailoring, wood working, herbalism though he sucked at it and knew more about where and what diffrent herbs and what they make than making them, and of course his little pet secret from folks drawing though he wasn't as illiterate as he elad may to believe Jack was close to reading and writing thanks to Yue and Ophelia. A pang of worry thinking of that name Ophelia Bell was the last mist person he help raise and Jack loved her like she was his own. But, the man had to move one with his life and she was a grown woman needing to move one with her life. She'll be happy to hear from him when he writes her a letter by himself. The smug smile on the oafs face as he picked up his sacks over his shoulder making his way to the docks of Vallaki. Upon his back between the two sacks was a stoen tablet upon it the names of Lazlo, Danika, Mirabel, and a score of familiar and old names upon it reading past the names....

"To those who left me to those who are gone my wife, my family, my friends, my enemies, may you rest in peace never to be disturbed may you be loved by Khelmevor and judge fair. Your time was to short to learn the world but you moved me on and for that I'm grateful. As long as I live I carry you by me so I remember and your stories aren't forgotten so others learn of you and your mistakes and your glories. Rest now and know we remember you."

Hopping aboard the Ship to Midway Jack could not help consider his new life in Blaustien as Alusand, or rather, Bluebeard's Engineer. Alusand they were like family and they needed things to improve their lives on the island. Maybe they would be more appreciative than the Barovians he tried so hard to earn their trust and love. Maybe the Guards there would appreciate his small works unlike the Garda. Sighing out to the water towards Vallaki Jack considered his promise when he died by the fire. He absolved and forgave the Garda and Vallaki promsing to always love it and protect it. Vallaki needed him no more and it needed to elarn to protect itself if not better than before hoping maybe from the score of dead Garda and departers maybe they will learn maybe not. The Mist would come and the land would once again befall the blind veil once more like it did every eyar and a new round of outlanders and strangers will arrive. Jack could feel it in his bones having survived so many and considering the changes now they are lucky compare to the darker days. Knowing his walk to Tser Pool would be long Jack considered fetching wood and some supplies he wanted to make a good impression on Alusand and his new lord Bluebeard and so with some scrap paper he drew his plans preparing for his new life and maybe his new shop in Blaustien.
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #15 on: June 05, 2021, 05:25:38 PM »
(New Life)

Surprised by Alusand's favor Jack did not hesitate to take up the offer to become Blaustien's Engineer. Though he was not keen on titles it was fancy and Jack assured the woman and her Lord he would do what was in his ability to improve the people and land of Blaustien. Jack, Nimir, had taken all that was his left and moved to Blaustien the news of being given his shop made him happy and for once Jack felt at peace or if a bit more at ease than ever in his life. Blaustien was not Barovia and frankly his times here with his Brother Yolven and Karis was never boring. Among the local farmers and fishers it was solemn hard work among the pirates there was always dares and interests so he was never bored. A year since he was last her Jack was a burnt crisp brought back from the dead once again. The priest of the Iron Tyrant reverred his strength and reverred his tenacity to live for only the weak would perish. Jack understood many disapproved of the Iron Tyrant but he did respect strength and acknowledge its need in this world for were he not strong Jack would not have survived for so long. Needless to say as a tribute to the priest Jack offered to repair the church and its needs with no charge when asked.

Envoy Alusand, Ambassador, was his boss and he did not mind that Jack assured her requests to improve the people of Blaustien's lives and Jack was a man of his word regardless of the dark things he did in the past Jack revered and respected a man's word as if those who had nothing always had their word and honor. In this Jack tiredlessly made lamp posts to brighten the streets at night for both the guards and townsfolk. It wasn't like there was any Neuri or Vroloks at night here and the worst you can get is some pirates looking to make a quick meal ticket out of yah. With a snort working on his project the last time one group did he beat the hell out of them and took the guys hat. Needless there were graveyards here and when Ophelia did visit she would like to tend and see the graves. Out of habit he tended to them and it was like Jack's peace time to tend the graves and talk to the dead. A comforting practice by his daughter he learned and Jack enjoyed it getting use to talking to people was difficult given his accent.

Bloody Mary was cute in a scary tough lady type of way. Though Jack knew if he offered her a well forge steel Falchion or admantine one she probably be offened or more impressed. The oaf chuckled as he worked upon his project considering of lighting the new lamp posts about Blaustien. Jack had worked his first day adding comfort and utility for the people adding lamp posts, benches, addtional farming devices like butter churners, coops, wheel barrows, even a wagon to make their ease of life better. "Once they open up to you they will be like family. All they have on this island are each other and its what makes those of Blaustien strong." Considering Alusand's words Jack respect that as it was the same he did with his family. Yue would be proud of him using his strengths to better lives than hurting them. Though his curse was still ever present it seems there was an understanding for his need to feed and when Jack chose it was when he felt like it or when it was to much in need. Thankfully Blaustien had Hags and although not his first choice they were something. A sneer and a smirk came as those retches in Port who caused Vallaki so much trouble were also available not like they gave a damn of their poor or wretched either. A win win frankly in Jack's eyes and Alusand didn't seem to care and the fact only the strong were respected here made it easier as Jack was a strong fella in many ways.

Hammering another bolt into the frame of his project Jack looked over the Scorpion and Arabalast he augmented. Alusand wanted him as an Engineer to improved the lives of the people of Blaustien and with his abilities in crafting cothing, leathers, metals, knowledge of herbalism, woodcrafting, smelting, and small skill in gilding Jack was going to use every bit to improved their lives. Aside from the utilities of improving their farming with tools, wagons, and irrigations Jack had been ask by Alusand in extention from Lord Bluebeard to improve their fishing. Any fool can catch small fish catching alot of them was a challenge and to revere the strength of Blaustien and Lord Bluebeard Jack wanted to honor his new Lord and contributor with a device that serves both a fishery function and a weapon. Using the triggering mechanism of the Siege Scorpion and the idea of a flintlock firing system from Port Jack considered if made bigger, which he liked doing anyways, the Scorpion or Sharky as he started calling it could fire harpoons stronger than a man can hurl them. This would allow Fishing Vessels to haul and kill massive creatures like whales or larger fish prey. If a twin firing mechanism was made a net could be set around it lined with barbs to haul the large prey fish or encumber it tiring it out making it easier to kill.

A wry grin Jack smirked at the notion how easy it was to make things to kill things and ironically if a Fisherman were to turn this on his fellow man well for Jack. "Sheep do what Sheep do." People always did the worst and that's what kept him alive knowing they were fully capable of doing the worst. Pausing from his work on "Sharky" he thought he convince Alusand to barter for sheep on the island so it could be self suffecient with wool and it would add Lamb to the menu of the island. By far the island was huge but not as vast as Barovia so it required to taking in many Imports. Jack was dumb on most things involving books and politics but business Jack knew well with out even being properly educated and knew with Piracy, Bucaneering, they could aquire more. Perhaps Coastal lands by Dementlieu or maybe.... Shaking his head Jack wanted nothing to do with those people if it happen it happen but it would be justified irony. Either way Sharky needed to be fine tuned and application of powder was still a bit way in progress. Elisabetha, the arbalast, wasa repeative shot harpoon turret. Taking appart those crossbows and learning the emchanism of repeated fire and learning applying the physical components on a larger scale weren't to hard. Jack couldn't explain all the fancy words to it he just knew by how it worked and taking things appart and applying it to something else. Wasn't Vraja Science or something stupid like the Port University smarts but Jack admit he was damn proud of himself landing this gig and soon he have his shop and then peace. Nodding and laughing to himself as he worked Jack finally would have peace and if people bothered him well Sharky was always hungry.
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #16 on: June 10, 2021, 05:17:25 PM »
(Sharky Mk. 2)

Jack glanced to the baren sight that Sharky Mk.1 was at he didn’t know who took it or took it apart but it was clear even here people had no respect for others things. Though it was Blaustien the oaf reckoned being Ambassador Alusand’s Engineer would credit him some leeway. But, like always Sheep need to be culled and cowed it’s the only way they understood anything or at least not to mess with someone or their things.

Getting the material needed for the making of Sharky Mk. 2 wasn’t difficult rebuilding it from the ground up was after all the best method to Jack. Sharing ideas with Alusand did help Jack consider far more details than a simple work. First the use of black powder was secondary and would be considered further down near the end of the project. First Jack needed Sharky Mk. 2 to be sturdy, formidable, versatile and like its namesake dangerous. Immediately the design for weapons and crafting was never hard for Jack. Books, big words, more complex things like politics were over his head but for killing, well, for Jack that was easy something too easy for him.
Moving along Jack worked effortlessly on the base by the fisher’s spot there the man could test Sharky on a land platform off the cliff. Some of the locals may be upset but at the same joyful if things go well with the fishing aspects of the device. The design for Arbalests wasn’t difficult but this model had a broad base with which to hold the Arbalest in place. Having driven long metal stakes into the ground offered great support though ideally on a ship bolts would work better. The wood needed to be sturdy though Jack preferred metal salt air and seawater caused these parts to rust so metal reinforcements were fasten and bolted to the pyramid frame.

With the base done the next part was to work upon the fulcrum joint of the base to the Arbalest itself. Jack spent most the night working on that tirelessly in Davy Jones Locker not much caring for locals spectating or watching. The base of the fulcrum was a simple bolt that would be tightly screwed to a base. The loose bolt would have anchoring points on the base to the four corners of the pyramid to act like a resistance to limit the angle and to not let the Arbalest spin about the ship in case of rough seas or misfires. The base itself would be bolted to the Repeater mechanism of the Crossbow-like barrel allowing the user to wield it.
Jack waking from his time at the Davey Jones Locker ate what pass for breakfast though it was not very nourishing for him he ate anyways knowing he’d swing by the Hags below a do what he did in Vallaki. Nourished Jack would resume the work now making the third part of the device of a siege weapon. The Arbalest part itself was dual crossbow-like firing mechanism. On either side of the stock below the barrel was a pulling mechanism to lock the harpoon in place much like a bolt in a crossbow given raw strength alone would not be enough.
It reminded Jack that the materials of Electrum had to be used as a coating for Steel giving its anti-corroded benefits. That would solve the problem of salty air and seawater for all the parts of the Arbalest preventing the need for constant maintenance and repairs. The cord wasn’t traditional either. Thanks to domn Coal’s suggestion and Drow talk about spider silk and his clothing Jack new the strongest cord to make was spider silk. The process was annoying and it took Jack awhile to utilize silk and monstrous spider silk but the string and then cord thanks to the help of the local weavers made a fine braid which didn’t fray or burn easily.
Making the repeater function would have to wait so instead adding two large boxes on either side of the middle kept the device balanced. Though it put a strain on the fulcrum the friction grating the metal and wood. The Boxes would hold shorter harpoons that would drop into the barrel where the user could draw back both notches loading back harpoons with out having to manually reload each time. Considering the weight Jack found himself a little stump till he watched Carriages about Port Lucine noticing some of them had springs to support these extravagant cabins. Why couldn’t such a thing be used for an Arbalest and so Jack spent a few days studying how springs work and were made being as polite and yet nosey as possible.

Astounded by this mechanism Jack was even surprise how they make tiny ones for clocks and firearms. Several days Jack would hide Sharky Mk. 2 keeping sure nobody else ruin his work as it felt Alusand wanted some results. Days studying, forging, wood crafting, leatherworking, tailoring, Jack had consider applying these talents he had and knew and figured how he needed to support the weight of the Arbalest part. In addition, Jack considered the springs could be used as a loading mechanism even as an additional power to the metal composite of the crossbow head.
For days Jack would not be around quietly working in Bluastien and only coming out to eat or work for more funds for more parts. Altering the Composite Crossbow head with Steel was high tension and by forging a new composite head with steel springs fastened to the end of the spider-silk cords added more tension and compensation that gave the harpoon further distance and piercing power. Inclusive to the design the base where the Harpoons were loaded held a spring which gave additional thrust.

This however made the notches pointless and instead required small ship wheels to crank the Arbalest to loading position. One strong man alone could do this though three men would make the job easier. The spring box surrounding the new fulcrum now made it swing with no friction and less oil. Adding a stop placement on the spring box also kept the Arbalest bending joint from going to far down and to far up stabilizing it better.
With additions to springs to the pyramid four legs added some resistance to the fulcrums bottom base allowing the Arbalest to bend which would make it a bit more seaworthy. Extra coating of Electrum was needed to also make sure the springs were not rusted. Included around the springs wooden box cases to prevent material getting caught in them or stupid people putting fingers where they didn’t need to be. Proudly Jack worked tirelessly on Sharky. Mk.2.
Now he needed to make a reeling mechanism for Sharky. Mk.2 as firing the harpoons would be great but for fishing you needed lines. Grumbling Jack also needed to add a sight for the thing so people would aim it properly maybe add a telescope to it or something. Now he needed to figure how a telescope worked and a reel system work. Considering Jack’s plight he did tell Alusand he work on making a better fishing pole and that was something entirely different but necessary to improve Blaustien and to earn his keep and get his shop. Draping Sharky Mk. 2 Jack would hide her again and pay off the local for keeping it safe and figure out these next two things.
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #17 on: July 28, 2021, 12:52:51 PM »
[Lost]

Rage filled Jack Wilson as he picked up and hurled stones and logs about the misty terrain. In the southern woods of Vallaki far in the misted areas was the only place Jack felt safe. Sure things of the mist would approach him but he understood those things. Not like the Sheep in the outside world the foul lying sheep who he placed his trust in time and time again. Alusand had lost favor with Lord Bluebeard his dream and his hope to a peaceful life away from the masses gone. The more he learned the more Jack felt his sharp teeth grind considering the facts that woman D'Estelier is the one involved for his lost. To make matters worst to avoid Port Lucine and being accused of any wrongful accusations Jack had left behind a sum at the bacnk uncertain if he would ever aquire it again. The misty silence was disturbed by his feral scowls and curses in balok as the man sat tired on a log having vented and rage for an hour. Rubbing his face Jack, Nimir, found himself back in Vallaki with no one else to turn too and no one else to be employeed too. No sooner than a day there news came to him of his daughter Ophelia and some whack job with a fire arm nearly killing her and her friend. To boot Necromancers once more defile the graveyard she cared so preciously about and Jack knew such things would break Ophelia's heart. Nobody harmed what was his. Nobody disrespects whats his. Nobody defiles his home.

"Then there's the red cape -skull helm outlander," The man who suddenly began to prepare for an assault murdered him and the garda.  The rage filled in again and his condition The Curse flared painful on his chest and Jack could only clutch his chest. "Father...." the laughing voice of the wicked man who circled him in the mist echoed in his head. "WEak boy! Weak! They don't fear you! They don't care for you! Look how easily they killed you! you gotten soft boy!" Clench fist slam the log and the side of his head Jack rocking back and fourth angrily growling and snapping his jaw. Jack had not been murdered not since his Burning and never saw it comming. Why did the man choose to come after him he didn't know but Jack would have his revenge on the man and everything and everyone that crossed him. Lost is what he felt he tried so hard to live a peaceful life like Yue asked and isolated himself but the things he tried to forget Jack remembered like a raging inferno. "They never care... They never stop... Those Sheep never learn..."

Scratching his chest holding the side of his head rocking back and fourth Jack felt anger that all his work to make Blaustien better was for nothing that everyone was right. Allying with Alusand would be trouble and now Jack was left with nothing once more. Wanting to be scared was weak, wanting to be strong was wrong, and yet with narrowed eyes to the mossy leaf floor of the woods Jack looked into his hands. "Power....Stronger.... I gave these up to be accepted and be normal.... I ain't normal... I'm never going to be human again.... They made me a monster..... All I want is to make thing, have a shop, protect my family. Why is that so hard? Is it cause I'm alone? Is it because im dumb? Those Garda never stood a chance..... they enver stand a chance...." Rising brooding Jack considered what he wanted to do and doing things alone wasn't going to cut it. He need allies, better gear, he needed people on his side and Jack didn't care who, how, or why just that things got done and he got what he wanted lumbering back to Vallaki.
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #18 on: August 23, 2021, 03:52:11 PM »
[Bewildered and Figured]

How does one go by the idea of feeling lost and in ones own mind. Nimir felt uncertain rekindling the alliance with his employer and yet here he was on Blaustien working on Shaky Mk. 3 out in the seabreeze. Nimir refused to leave the island less it was to gather resources given not much or any funding was being out or into his work. At this point the old Barovian oaf had half the right mind to just deal with Bluebeard directly himself. His partner had gotten into trouble again and it seems like a reoccurring theme with these foreign governments. Not to mention the increase activity among groups and their senseless killing was irritating Nimir. Though he kept close attention of news of Vallaki and the Graveyard with the Hollow Mortuary hoping his dear sweet Ophelia was well. Smug Nimir was amused an old friend of his was kind enough to write a letter for him though he himself was still trying to practice what his brother Yolven and his friend Yue taught him about reading and writing though he was still no good at it.

Taking in the seabreeze and the salty air Nimir wiped a bead of sweat from his brow cleaning his hands from grease, metal, and woodchips with is apron to remove a letter from one of the pockets. Unfolding the letter, albeit he could not read it, Nimir memorized the words his friends wrote down for him with a smile.

"Dear Ophelia,

I hope your doing well in Vallaki. I came several times to see you but you were busy with responsibilities and duties. I'm so proud how much a big woman yeah become and how important you are in people's lives. I'm here in Blaustien far far away from people after I got murdered by an outlander in Vallaki. I remember why I needed to leave and why my anger and my condition causes me there. Some times I sit alone in the mists thinking alot lately if I'm doing the right thing going through Lord Bluebeard to get my shop. Its kind of crazy everybody loves the guy and there are a lot of pirates. You know me and your uncle Yolven use to pirate alot in the old days. I ain't getting any younger and I doubt I find me a misses. I hope you give love a chance I dun much care for the folks about where yeah live but find yeah a good honest man, hopefully barovian, all these adventuring outlanders ever do is cause drama and trouble and you don't  need that in your life. I know you got some trouble with Necromongers and stuff at the graveyard I ask some favors and paid some folks to help yeah out and look after yeah. I'm always looking out for yeah my little Grim Flower dont' ya worry yer old man's doing fine as long as his boss don't get herself killed or something else stupid. Well I better get back to working on my new weapon and tool promised some progress to my boss and hopefully maybe meet lord Bluebeard himself some day. Be safe Ophie ole Mist Pappa loves yeah.

Nimir. "

Pausing from his work starring at the letter Nimir recalled his raging father from the Mist. The Curse has for the most part been on and off. There were enough hags to slaughter to satisfy his hunger with out hurting the inhabitants here and not like Port Lucine had a shortage of criminals. Even so the memory of all he survived and went through cause him to frown thinking why wasn't his father as good to him as he was to Ophelia? That always bothered him taking his mother's life. How did some one who gave birth to you treated you so poorly and even tried to take your life and give your life away with out loving you? Was his father proud? Was the rage and blood that boiled inside his gift from his father or simply another curse. Much like Molly's gift the blood that brought him back to life in the Mist granted him the boon of vigor and health so did it also keep him from enjoying various foods. Perhaps part of the curse of the Child Vrolok was in him and no matter what Jack couldn't cure it much like being part Wilson. Otherwise everybody would be able to cure Vroloks or anything regardless the boasting of priests and doctors. Such an odd life he had and the monsters around in sheep clothing always confused him. Why were they always so bitter quick to punish another for the smallest of crimes or actions. At this point Jack didn't care for anybody else he didn't know all he had was his brother, close friends, and Ophelia. Tinu didn't count because its Tinu she gets her own category and he hadn't seen Kiyosa in a while and wondered if she was still preggers with Golem Puppies. Jack had survived and lived a long time the man could not fathom how or why he was around. Like an old relic from a time long gone the oaf continued working on the Sharky Mk. 3 Harpoon Arbalast with chain net and resume looking over his crude but self educated drawings eyeing the cannons on ships and contemplating some alterations. Still so many eras have come and pass the only thing on Jack's mind is to be free and own his shop selling and trading weapons and armors with ammon and things. No better place to make such a shop of fine steel and metals and exotic linnings than a place were pirates trade and barter and many foreign nations come to port. And with that wide grin of thought of cunning ole Jack hummed a haunting Barovian tune as he worked on his monstrosity.
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #19 on: October 13, 2021, 09:47:25 AM »
[Humbled]

Jack read the letter he had prepared for Ophelia. Though Jack himself could not write well enough there was always some one willing tow rite for him or for the right money. Admiring the letter the man thought to bring it himself and leave it with the Hollow Mortuary on his trip back to Barovia. Were it not for Eos the Murderer he would not be ban from the Hollow Mortuary but then again the man did not quite get along with Elas the Gunder-boy. Yet, Ophelia insisted Nimir/Jack leave the lad be and to behave himself so Jack spared the boy not wishing to upset Ophelia and her few friends. The though being unable to see his blossoming daughter irritated him more so that Jack needed a good gift for the dear. Eyeballing the letter the recalled the read words of the author and hoped this would suffice for now.

"Dear Daughter,

I have kept to the Mist and its mysterious ways in the recent times. The times have changed and I feel outdated among these outlanders. They are more ridiculous than the last batch and seem to be nice but aggressive. I keep to myself on the island of Blaustien the folks are nice though Lord Bluebeards men are like thugs few bother with me and fewer known my intolerance to be messed with other than the local folk and random pirates. My work on Sharky is comming close to an end the foundation, structure, and ammo all done by me will most likely be the new method of fishing and hauling large Fish game. I'm somewhat proud of that and my other two projects the Reinforced Rod and the Mini-Sharky. Though the last one I'm still working on a few kinks in the workings of it as its heavy for a simple man but not yer Mist Pappy.  I be liking the clam here in Blaustien its away from the stupidness of people. The Mist Camp always got folks being fools or bored off their mind with stupid dramas though not as poorly as the Port folk. Kelemevor knows what I think of those lot of privelaged trash. Yah I be praying to Kelelemvor more often only damn diety makes sense like yah said. You die only be one guy yah answer too which is funny how folks prattle about their gods but don't do nothing with their god or their god does nothing. Well my little Grim Flower I'll be arriving into Barovia for a vist for the enxt three days to see you and gather more of muh belongs left there as well as fetching some silver. Hope to see you and maybe if yer lucky find yah a suitor. Yer young and Kelemevor knows you been good to him and deserve a family of yer own when I'm gone.

Luv, Mist Pappy."

Smiling the oafish barovian lug his shoulder sack and got on the boat awaiting his arrival into Port with a disgusted look. "Fopps. Hopefully they be kind and not stupid today." And watch as the ship set sail towards Dementlieu. Scratching at his chest with a bit of hunger the man but smirked thinking of what was to come and maybe his employeer would stop dying long enough for her to see the new things Jack had made. Who knew maybe he get lucky and watch some poor Fopp get his face wrecked. Leaning on a rail looking out to the waters Jack but smirked wondering how the rest of his love ones were doing.
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #20 on: November 26, 2021, 04:07:31 PM »
[Reflection]

*With in a well crafted journal embroidered in silver and gold metal etchings of vines surrounding a small woman bust.*

"These are my first pages to write. Yue had always encouraged me to learn to read and write. I knew things of the world. Learning books are hard but some books are fun to learn. I taught myself to read and write in Barovian and it took me a very long time. Then with the help of many friends I learned to read and write Trade that was fun too. So many things I never understood I now do. Yue I wish you were here to see me read and write I know you be happy. I'm going to have to surprise Tinu when I write something naughty on paper. Though its also helped me to learns to read and write drawings of weapons and tools. Of armors and other fine things to craft I enjoy widdling here by the sea salted ocean side of Blaustien. The Lord's guards are thuggish but for most the island is peaceful and nary any trouble. Well except when Sonea was murdered here on the island a few weeks back. That was a mess and as before the Fopps didn't much care as long as their views and laws are respected."

"So many folks were heart broken and angry even I stood up and wrote some funny things to scare them off. But, seeing the hurt faces of Karliah and IIona reminded me why I dislike the sheep. I felt the anger swell in me I felt the curse waking. I've tried a long time for a cure and simply there isn't one I know or can find. There are days when my curse drives me to eat the hearts of those who done me wrong or wish me ill. At least I don't go eating the hearts of innocent people no more. I choose what to give the curse. Its my will over its will. I pray my sweet Ophelia and Natalya are safe. I wish and pray to Kelemevor now and thank the Christian God and Pelor for their kindness to my friends. I feel Blaustien is quiet I couldn't return to Barovia there be too many risks. Port Lucine be a bother with all the Fopps though their hearts are rich. Heh. If things do not work in Blaustien I think it best I left to build my shop in the Mist. I'm most at peace there but the same time I always feel he's watching me. My Father warned me there come a day I lose control a day I couldn't stand the sheep no more. It scares me when I sleep sometimes I see the monster I am and could become."

"Yolven my brother, Karis my girl, and so many friends kept me on dis good path. I try hard to be a good guy but sometimes you can't help feeling you got to be a bad guy to survive this unfair world. I was born daft so my mudder always told me. I killed my own mother who blamed and tried to kill her own son same with the people of my village. I think back then that all I wanted to be was loved. When the mists brought me here I almost forgotten everything right down to speaking. Hell Lance Corproal Rodika and Private DRagomir taught me how to speak, behave, and be a Barovian. Yah, I know I wasn't really barovian but for me in those years I was Barovian and nonemade me feel more Barovian than my old Buddy Luca Petrovich the Rat Catcher.  Then I met Malice Mo'Far the Drow woman my first boss and lovers who taught me de underground and the rough things in life. I know back then I did a lot hurting and killing that I done pitics wrong and outlanders its funny because it was outlanders and elves who made me the man I was."

"Even when I was wrongly murdered and put to fire because of Jean and his lunatic Bloodhounds I was mad but wasn't for them I wouldn't be so close to all these people. I know many say Vroloks are evil. Alot of things people say are evil. Molly wasn't evil she was a liddle girl trap in a vroloks body never able to grow up never able to live free like a child. All she wanted was a play mate some one to see her as that innocent girl. Da, many could call me a fool though those that did were fool themselves killing each other over petty beliefs or reasons. Nothings ever black and white like iron yah got to forge the impurities to see the value of steel. When she gave me that vile of blood I didn't understand the boon she offered or the deal I made with the Mists and the Man of the Mist. When they came and tried to kill me for protecting some one who was nicer to me than the murderering outlanders, pitics, and bad people out there in the outskirts. Was i really a fool? They were willing to murderer a man in cold blood for their beliefs for their way of thinking. When I lay dying on the ground and Molly said her good bye I was scared. Scared I never know love like that, never know what my life would be other than fighting and bullying, and even when the mist man tried to raise me I called out to the mists and drank the vile with her blood."

"I was scared to die unjustly I wanted justice for all the cruel things people did to a daft soul like me. And that's what was funny I lived past so many. So many died doing what they thought was good to only die because they did something wicked. It's stupid how all these sheep think they are doing good but all they do is bad. That's why they are sheep and I'm a shepard. If I can't lead some good ones then all the bad ones will eat all the green in the world. It's why the bad ones I eat so there are less of them and more of the good. I don't much care in healing my curse anymore. I've tried and frankly it doesn't matter. Sooner or later I will die and the curse will have me as it intended. It craves my rage, my fury, my injustice, my hunger its like the bellowing of a brutish beast deep in my heart. As long as I remain calm I can consume a single heart and be fine for some time satiated. Yet, when I die, get injured, or haven't eaten in some time it gnaws at my mind begging hungrily to be set free. Our rage is one and yet we are two beasts roaring for control. Nowadays I win being the louder and the stronger. But, it knows my weaknesses same like my Father said. "It's in the Blood Jacky Boy. It's in my blood and yours its just stronger now the Rage and Fury building till yer nothing more than a daft killer." I always wondered if he was my dad or some trick of the mist. I could of gone with Dad but then I'd left poor Ophelia and many behind."

"I'm scared for that day cause I think I lose the me I worked hard to be. I dun give a damn what anybody or any curse says I'm going to be me and so I take the Curse as part of me its in my blood it is my blood so its part of me. You love me you love my curse you hate me you hate my curse its just that simple. If the Curse's will and power gives me the strength to do good so be it if it causes me to be bad so be it I don't give a damn no more. I just want to have my little shop and my peace to make Armors, Weapons, and other Crafty things. I'm most at peace when I'm making things and the rage the curse provides when I am eager to make things makes me feel it likes doing that too. My mother always said I was daft that I amount to nothing but be a burden in life. Here I am a Master at Crafting with a daughter who loves me, a brother who loves me, and many friends who love me. The world can hate me and it does but those who love me give me life. I pray to Kelemvor, Pelor, and the Christian God if ders any pity left in this stupid world let me have peace let those I love be safe for if they ever come in harms way I swear by the Mists nobody will know my Curse well than the Fury my hate for them will bring."
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."

Alan Hunter

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Re: Axfell: Redemption or Corruption
« Reply #21 on: November 29, 2021, 05:23:27 PM »
[Loss or Desperation]

Nimir reflected on a few things as he worked upon the large fishery arbalast known as "Sharky" working upon it outside of the von Reese Inn on Blaustien. The sea air's fragrant heavy salty smell seemed normal to him now but it also encourage the sweet tang of his taste buds in the back of his throat. Days pasted since Nimir last ate and the sensation reminded him of his ill fated curse. Things one does in horror by the actions of others or situations through out his life here in the Core made him realize more often or not folk were twisted and odd. Some times Nimir even believed this place twisted everyone over time how else do folks explain the actions of others. Sonea's murdered left an imprint on his heart remembering his days of past. Before it was known of his "Curse" he use to not care enjoying the rush of power the dark gift gave him and any and all who meddled with him Nimir would simply consume their heart. But, that changed when some one took his gory and act for evil.

Some wicked creature had begun to do the same as Nimir but not in a descreet manor. At the time he was not well known as a cannibal as the Pygbmies or this Wtaith or even worst Sindra. But, unlike them it wasn't culture or greed that empowered him it was the thrive to survive knowing if he did not eat a heart he would die much like how a vampire could die from lacking blood. The hunger settles in and it naws upon you achingly reminding you how you hurt nagging incessively like a pain that will never go away. Even when he sought to cure his Curse Nimir was driven to do things most people would think horrorific. It was Nimir's life and no one could judge him for wanting to preserve his life. Even when he was burnt alive Jack couldn't help but speak the names softly of all those who partook in his murder right to the Ezrite herself. Jack had begged the darkness who saved him to curse all his foes and all those who harmed him and what was his.

Then Yolven and Ophelia came into his life then there was Karis and Yue. After them it was Lance Marino and Fox and after them his daughter Roxy whom he adopted along with so many others he lost track with. Jack was always used to folks beating him, harming him, taking away what little he had and the oaf violently protested yet here he was working on a project for a Lord he barely knew and a woman who was dead. But, it beat being filled with rage and hatred it felt good to be at peace most of the time instead of worrying and fretting over other wicked sheep. Even as Jack traced the scars on his chest and face from the Curse even as the gnawing hunger ached in the back of his belly and his mind jumbled he was calm as long as Jack worked on any Craft he could do. No prayer, magic, or cure will ever releave him from his monstrous nature now and Jack was becoming at peace with it. Molly gave him a gift with a terrible boon having evaded death and swore he would never die again after being Burned alive.

Unconciously he grip a beech bracket and broke it in his massive palm sighing. The tragic memory of it haunted the man every time Jack's eyes met with a person he didn't see as a friend. Bound in metal shackles to a post as fire slowly and achingly devour each bit of flesh and cloth like an all consuming heat and itch you can't scratch. Feeling as burned fabric eat through your skin as your own flesh swells and cracks like leather left in the sun to long. The aroma of cooked salty meat mixed with your own scent making it unrecognizavle the fact you are cooking alive. All the meanwhile you can hear the crackling of the fire beyond your own choking screams as your lungs boil like a pot of flesh with water as you choke up the cooked essence of your own broiling bile. And yet as he closed his eyes hearing the screams not of his own of the people who didn't even know him or the truth of his tragic tale.

"Monster!" panting as you catch yer breathe. "Evil!" shaking your head that you were not. "Villian!" and yet you did nothing wrong but react to all the hatred they gave to you. Their wicked laughter towards you as you beg for some one for help. And yet the burning of the fire is ulike the sizzling inferno in your belly that roars up your spine as unbridled rage fills the back of your eyes till they are read and burning. And all Nimir could do was grip the rails of his project shaking reminding himself he wasn't there anymore. That he wasn't going to die fearing that if he did Nimir would be like Jack maybe worst be the monster the curse intended him to be. Eventually his time will be at its end and Nimir prayed that whatever happened if even he turned into this beast that there be enough of his sanity to protect his friends and loved ones from himself. Nimir could care less of others who wanted to kill themselves as long as they left his alone the oaf didn't care.

Jack had lost enough and died for it. Nimir had all he needed to leave a peaceful life he hoped though knowing those who chose to inccur his wrath will have no remorse from him living or non-living. There was enough lost in his life and Nimir was deperate to have a life as peacefully and as tranquil as possible. To have his little shop and build a crafting Hall on Blaustien. That was his dream and nobody was going to take that or anything else from him again. Resuming the work as intended Nimir admired his "Sharky" and hoped one day that Bluebeard will also come to appreciate it as he has.
"For Evil to win is for good men to do nothing."