Completed Shrine of Storms

[Ricky Maze]

Shrine of Storms
Spring 90th, 513 AV; 16th Bell

'Not sure why I'm doin' this, but better now than never.' Ricky told himself as he found himself entering the Storm Shrine, he had always been curious as to what the inside had looked like since he never took time to come here. Ricky wondered a lot about the Gods and Goddesses as he only knew what little he had, which was mainly about Laviku, so of course his mind would be curious about the other deities that were out there. This temple was a shrine dedicated to Zulrav, or so everyone told him when he asked. They believed he would be better off visiting the place, if he were to learn more about the God of Storms. What better time than now, considering he no longer had to be on guard today. After a quick run to his home in the Old Quarter Ricky changed out of his uniform and into the simple cotton outfit he usually wore. 'Come summer and I should be gettin' a new change o' clothes.' He mused to himself with a chuckle.

He walked in the shrine quietly with amazement in his expression, curiosity now grabbed the better of him as he looked at the many statues that depicted Zulrav. 'If he's the God of Storms, then he must be the one responsible for losin' my pa at sea.' He gave a silent prayer that his trip across the sea had been safe enough, he believed Laviku to be kind enough to bring him home safely, but now that he came here he wondered if Zulrav maybe had a part in it as well.


He continued to observe the inner reaches of the shrine, fascinated by what he saw as he looked all around. He did indeed had a lot to learn about Zulrav, a lot more than he expected there to be.

[Tallis]

There was a certain lightness in Tallis’ step that day. He planned to make another customary trip to the Storm Shrine and give his thanks to his patron god, Zulrav. In his hand, he carried his usual offering - a candle. Although structurally similar to any other offering candle, Tallis had personalized his by carving a short prayer into the body of the candle followed by a small, hurricane-shaped symbol. He was by no means an artisan carver, and the knife-marks were barely legible, but the candle was a sign of his personal devotion to Zulrav. As he left the house, it was clear that the days were bordering on Summer. The seasonal change had really started to show in the weather. The skies were clear and the winds were warm as the sun beat down on the citizens of Zeltiva. Winding his way up to the Storm Shrine, Tallis was able to see the full panorama of the city he called home. The beautiful weather masked the devastating effects of the recent plague. Although the sickness seemed to have passed, many people still suffered from the damage it had done. For those that called the city home, it was easy to see that the streets were emptier and quieter. Entering the unique structure that was the Storm Shrine, Tallis was greeted by the familiar presence of the priest who tended to the shrine. Exchanging hushed greetings with the priest, he was quick to notice the presence of an unfamiliar individual. Being one of the more regular frequenters of the Storm Shrine, Tallis often took mental notes on the people who visited. The number of visitors was usually small, as most of the city took Laviku as their patron God. Generally, it was sailors who made infrequent visits to the shrine, praying for good weather to work in and swift winds to fill their sails. This man certainly looked like a sailor, but something about him seemed different. Acting on a whim, Tallis decided to talk to the man. With the regular number of visitors decreasing, he felt that talking to this man about his patron god would be fulfilling his duty to Zulrav. Perhaps he was meant to help this man find his standing with the God of Storms. Extending his hand in greeting, Tallis began, “Hello there, friend! My name is Tallis. Is this your first visit to the Storm Shrine?”

[Ricky Maze]

Ricky hadn't expected someone to come talk with him right away, but now that the man had made an effort he gave a friendly smile. "G'day Tallis! This is my first time 'ere at the Shrine actually. Ye can call me Ricky." He responded humbly as he shook hands with Tallis, intrigue soon filled the guards eyes. Tallis came off as the friendly sort open to socialize, or so the attitude he held suggested anyway. Tallis possessed deep blue eyes just like Ricky did, on a bit of a darker shade. He definitely himself out enough to stride in confidence, something not many scholars could do so easily when all they cared for was knowledge. Ricky's smile became more genuine as he already felt Tallis would be a positive influence, a relaxed attitude soon came from the guard to meet with his natural aspect.

"I've to admit I've only known 'bout Laviku all my life, and that's only a little bit anyway." He admitted with a chuckle as he looked all around, curious about what the God of Storms was all about. "Say, ye wouldn't happen to know 'bout Zulrav would ya? I'm curious to learn everythin' I can 'bout him, since he influences the trips sailor's go on. Kinda owe him one for makin my trip 'cross the ocean a safe one." He mused with a bit of a chuckle, interest on the rise as he waited to hear what Tallis might have to share.

[Tallis]

A knowing grin lit up Tallis’ face as Ricky asked about Zulrav. It was always exciting when someone showed an interest in the same things as you did. And Tallis wasn’t just interested in the God of Storms, he was devoted to Him. Appearances could be deceiving as Ricky proved to be. Despite the man’s large stature and weather-hardened physique, he had a soft smile and warm eyes that radiated friendliness. It seemed that he was genuinely interested in learning about the God of Storms. And Tallis wouldn’t mind teaching him at all. Checking to make sure that there were no others who would be disturbed by their conversation, Tallis was surprised to find that it was simply Ricky, himself, and the priest who were currently in the Storm Shrine. And the priest certainly wouldn’t mind if his visitors were talking about Zulrav. Now where to start? Although he had been taking lessons most of his life, he wasn’t quite sure how to give one. After all, his role as a student never really offered him the opportunity to teach. But he did have knowledge of Zulrav as his connection to the God of Storms was something he had been born with. He simply understood the God like someone understood how to blink or breathe. It wasn’t something that would be easily explained, but he was going to give it his best shot. “Consider yourself lucky, Ricky. You see, unlike most Zeltivans, I actually consider Zulrav my patron god, although I definitely hold great respect for Laviku as well. I think you’ll find that, despite the two both being Gods, they are quite different in their personalities. Zulrav’s role in our world is… less obvious and He is more passive with His followers. He demands no sacrifices and He tends to work behind the scenes where His role often goes unnoticed. Perhaps it is because He is named the God of Storms, but few realize that His domain encompasses the lightest breezes and the slightest swaying winds as well.” Tallis took a moment to rain in his enthusiasm, lest if frighten Ricky. Perhaps he should find out what the man wanted to learn. “Tell me Ricky. What is it that interests you about Zulrav? Is there anything specific you would like to know?”

[Ricky Maze]

At first it sounded rather silly to consider a god other then Laviku as their patron, but not so much when he consideres it would be the same as any other god or goddess. Tallis seemed to be an interesting fellow who sounded quite knowledgeable of Zulrav, which gave Ricky the impression that he found exactly the right person to receive information from. Hearing that the God of Storms was far more laid back and rather acted indirectly compared to Laviku, it not only piqued his curiosities but took them even further now that his attention had been grabbed. Hearing that even the smallest of breezes fell into his domain, Ricky definitely found himself to be ever more intrigued with Zulrav.

"So he and Laviku co-exist quite well considerin' they cover a wide range o' the world." He liked how Tallis explained the basics of his patron deity, it could come across as scholarly to some but for the guard he found this to be something different. Like a personal relationship had been established between the two, a relationship built purely out of devoted faith to Zulrav. Ricky never considered building such a relationship, as he never really felr inclined or moved to create one with such higher powers. Yet if such a relationship with a deity could be expressed in the form Tallis displayed, then just maybe Ricky should at least give a better effort in trying as well.

"Aye, I'm actually interested in hearin' what all ye can tell me. He really sounds fascinatin' just by what ya told me already!" Ricky assured with enthusiasm, his undivided attention now focused on Tallis. This chance to learn about another god had immediately grown into an excellent golden opportunity to learn, and when it came to learning things Ricky always found that his horizons would always expanded soon after. Such an opportunity that came to him certainly wouldn't be wasted in his terms, because the world was full of mysterious things just waiting to be discovered, and for Ricky this discovery became one he didn't want to pass up. "Lay it all on me, everythin' ya know 'bout Zulrav." He cheered enthusiastically with a chuckle, eager to hear more and more of Tallis' patron.

[Tallis]

If anything, it appeared that Tallis’ enthusiasm had been contagious rather than off-putting. Ricky seemed more interested than ever and Tallis couldn’t wait to tell him more. Everything I know, huh? I think I can manage that. “I have a feeling you’re absolutely right about Laviku and Zulrav co-existing. The Gods and Goddesses are the ones who bring a balance to our world after all, and I truly believe that, without Their guiding hand, we would be lost. Imagine what our lives would be like if Laviku didn’t govern the seas, or Zulrav didn’t govern the weather. It would be chaos!” Looking around the Storm Shrine for inspiration on what else to tell Ricky about, Tallis suddenly found exactly what he was searching for. “Here’s an interesting fact, Ricky. You see all these statues and figures depicting Zulrav? The truth is, He never disguises Himself as a mortal man. When you are in His presence His whispers are the breeze, His touch is the wind, His voice is thunder, and all you may see of Him is air and clouds. He is a God that truly loves observing people. He enjoys watching our interactions, and I presume that is because we are more interesting to watch than flora and fauna. People are intelligent. Those of us who seek freedom and enlightenment are especially held in His esteem. I think it should be noted that Zulrav is also a God of knowledge. You will find that His eyes and ears are wherever the winds can touch. He learns from His followers, but we have much much more to learn from Him.” oocHey Ricky, I’m actually running out of things to say about Zulrav! I’ve elaborated a lot on what’s in the wiki, but I’m not qualified to say much more.

[Ricky Maze]

oocNo worries, that's about as good of an explaination he needs to start his worship actually, now to the whole male bonding thing grown.men do.

Ricky listened and found himself amazed at every turn, the idea that a world without Gods or Goddesses period did give the impression that it would be chaos. Humans and other creatures of the like were all destructive enough that they wouldn't even need deities to bring chaos. Ricky didn't know much about the higher powers at all now that he thought of it, just hearing Tallis talk about Zulrav he found himself ever more fascinated with the God of Storms. Tallis' enthusiasm likely rubbed off on Ricky too, because he couldn't stop a warm grin from filling his vacant expression. By the sound of things Zulrav actually had a lot more interaction with the world, compared to Laviku who demanded tribute quite a bit. Ricky could understand that part about Laviku, and he could also understand Zulrav having the air as his domain. The way Tallis spoke of Zulrav actually made Ricky think more of him now that he heard everything. 'Whispers in the breeze, touch in the wind, voice of thunder...' He thought quietly with a new found respect for the God.

"Laviku's beard ya sure know a lot! That was very insightful stuff, I thank ya for tellin' me so much." He gave a slight bow in respect to Tallis, appraised him for being so knowledgeable. "If ye don't mind me askin', would ya tell me a bit 'bout yerself? And how has Zulrav influenced yer life any?" His curiosity became a fountain that didn't seem to end, his eyes ever more lit up with enthusastic energy and a yearning to learn more.

[Tallis]

Tallis felt himself blushing. This was the first time someone had come up to him and so openly wanted to know about him. With most other people, he would have been wary of saying more, but a gut feeling told him that Ricky could be trusted. His questions, although prying, weren’t dangerous and could be answered without going into any details that were too intimate. Talking about Zulrav was one thing, but talking about himself? Well, Tallis could always start with his relationship with Zulrav, since Ricky wanted to know. Anyways, it would make for a smooth segue. “Zulrav has actually influenced my life since before I was born. My mother actually gave birth to me on a boat returning to Zeltiva. My parents were caught in a massive storm and they say that it was all thanks to the God of Storms that I was born safely. Zulrav marked me as one of his Stormwardens on that day and my family has given thanks to him ever since. I know that He has watched over me ever since I was small. I could always hear his voice on the winds, lightly guiding me. I have often had very strong gut feelings, and I think a part of that is Zulrav encouraging me and directing me. I owe Him my life, as well as the lives of my parents and the crew that He brought safely to harbour on the day that I was born. I know that, one of these days, I’ll be called on to serve Him. And when that day comes, I only hope that I can pay Him back for all that he has given me. But more about me… Up until just over a year ago, I was a student at the University of Zeltiva. I left when I felt that I had learned as much as I could from the institution. I have always preferred a hands-on approach to learning. The University gave me the basic skills I needed and I’ve found plenty of opportunities in my daily life to hone and advance those skills.” Tallis avoided saying that he had not been enrolled in the College of Applied Skills but had instead been enrolled in the College of Scholars training in magic. Although many Zeltivans were more open-minded about the use of magic, there were still many others who thought that it was too dangerous a tool to be wielded by human hands and minds. Ricky seemed like the unbiased type, but Tallis hadn’t known the man long enough to be sure and he didn’t want to ruin the positive flow of the conversation. “What about you, Ricky? I’ve told you about myself, and now I’d like to learn more about you.” Ricky had definitely left a great first-impression on Tallis, and the young mage hoped that he would continue to impress.

[Ricky Maze]

Interesting indeed. To hear that Zulrav marked Tallis since birth made Ricky nearly shudder in awe, to be gifted with such power from a deity was something he couldn't dream of happening. Power came with great responsibility and great care, and admittedly he even went to his own lengths to receive small amounts of power on his own. Only for the potential to protect the things that mattered most really, for that would be his sole purpose of using any power given to him. Yet he feared having power, even the idea was enough to make him quiver. If one was never cautious with the gifts that were given to them, then the circumstances for their failures would be their absolute undoing. Still he thought magic to be useful in many ways, ways that were beneficial to living in Mizahar.

"That's mighty impressive mate, I can honestly say my story isn't anywhere near impressive compared to that." He assured Tallis humbly with a modest grin. Still he did need to share it as was courtesy on his behalf, so he would do so respectively. "Let's see... I was born and raised in Zeltiva, alone with me father 'til I reached adulthood. When I was gettin' close he occasionally went on sailin' jobs since I was old enough to take care o' me self, 'til one day the ship he and a mate o' his went on was lost out at sea. Never heard from him since." Ricky had a sincere look on his face, one mixed with a little pride as well.

"He was good to me, a good father and a good man. Raised me to be a fisherman in my younger day's. After he was lost though I adopted a stray dog, only 'cause the mutt wouldn't leave me alone at first. Then he turned out to be the brother I never had as the years went by, after we went on a journey and decided to come home midway we found our house ruined. The Djed Storm wiped it clean out somehow. A few nights after that well..." He realized he'd been prattling on with his life story, as simple as he tried to keep it he didn't plan to go on for so long. "We met a new friend, who actually was with us upon the discovery of a slave smugglers den. We made a mistake and took them on ourselves when we shoulda got the Guard, but near the end Odis gave his life just to save mine. I remained heartbroken 'til almost the end of winter hit."

He suppose it would be proper to stop there, not wanting to overload Tallis with any more of his story. He had pretty much wrapped up and summarized every event he went through for the past few seasons, and he humbly shook his end as he cut himself off. He didn't want to bore Tallis with the details this season had brought on, though Ricky himself could hardly define it boring. "That's pretty much most of me life's tale there, just a simple man with a cause to protect what matters to 'em." He wondered curiously about the mark Tallis had received at birth, intrigue filled his mind once again as he asked another question. "What's a Stormwarden do? And can ya show me the mark?" He asked genuinely, a enthused interest plain in his expression.

[Tallis]

Tallis couldn’t even begin to imagine the loss that Ricky had experienced. To lose his closest family like that… he shuddered at the mere thought. There was clearly a lot of pain being masked by Ricky’s bright smile. Perhaps it was the loss itself that allowed the man to appreciate life so fully. Tallis wouldn’t know, and he didn’t feel like prying. Ricky had already offered him such a large glimpse into his life and Tallis held him in high esteem simply for being strong enough to share his story. Not every man could do that. “I honestly can’t say I know how that must have felt. But I do know that you have a very strong spirit, Ricky. Thank you for sharing so openly with me.” Afraid that he would open up fresh wounds, Tallis shifted topics as Ricky requested. It was the least he could do. “As you might have guessed, Stormwardens are those who have gained Zulrav’s approval and have been granted his Gnosis mark. Which basically means us Stormwardens are given access to a fraction of His power…” Tallis paused for a moment. He didn’t personally know any higher-ranked Stormwardens, and a gut feeling told him that Zulrav hadn’t elevated any of his followers to champion status. Perhaps he’d just focus on what he knew about his own gift and explain that to Ricky. “I am a first-marked Stormwarden, which grants me the ability to read the winds. I can’t exactly see the air, but I know how it travels. I can judge the speed and direction of the winds with ease, even the winds that lead to storms. I feel at home wherever the wind can reach me, and that is one of the greatest blessings… Being a Stormwarden also means that I am granted a fraction of Zulrav’s control over the winds. Although, I can only control light breezes… I guess I can give you a demonstration.” Taking a moment to center himself, Tallis felt out the air in the temple. The priest had left the windows open, allowing a nice breeze to flow throughout the temple and it was exactly what he needed. Silently whispering under his breath and calling the breeze towards him, Tallis set the wind circling lightly around the temple with Ricky at the center of the swirling breeze. As the winds travelled around the temple, the perfume of incense was picked up in the air, setting a sweet smell flowing around the Storm Shrine. The soft breeze brought new life to the dimming candles about the place and the flames grew stronger and flickered wildly in the wind. A few candles had gone out, mixing the smell of smoke with the perfume of incense and a thin, barely noticeable wreath of smoke circled around and around the temple, giving the place a hazy, almost ethereal look. And right at the center of all of this stood Ricky. “I almost forgot to mention that Zulrav can also give out negative marks. Those that have angered the God of Storms will find no shelter from the winds, and if He is truly upset, He will send his Stormwardens after them. Zulrav’s realm reaches far and wide and his enemies have nowhere to hide.” Tallis tried to remember what else Ricky had asked… Oh right! He wanted to see my mark! Tallis actually hadn’t seen it for himself in a long time. It wasn’t really located in a convenient area. “About my mark. It’s sort of placed right across my shoulders… But I guess… Since you asked so nicely…” Turning so that his back was facing Ricky, Tallis pulled the back of his shirt up so that the fabric rose to reveal the gnosis mark. At first glance, the mark looked like a simple tattoo of a silvery hurricane. However, on closer inspection, it was clear that the mark was very much alive and moving. Athough Tallis hadn’t seen it himself, whenever he used his Stormwarden powers, the mark came to life and the hurricane began to spin. “Just… just tell me when you’re done looking.” Tallis could feel himself blushing. He wasn’t a fan of showing off his body. He had the pale skin and thin frame that clearly identified him as a scholar. He hoped that Ricky would be too distracted by the gnosis mark to notice.