Rose Palace

The Rose Palace is located in the valley between the mountains to the south of the Realm of Dusnain and to the north of the Kingdom of Braebar. The Rose Council meet there regularly, the representatives of the kingdoms have stayed in residence there since the beginning of the Peace of Ages. The keep is expansive and has rooms for a great many guests at the keep. This also serves as the home of the Souls Templar.

Hall of the Rose

At the heart of the Rose Palace is the Hall of the Rose, the meeting place for the Rose Council. The hall is at the center of the palace two winding staircases lead directly to it from levels above and is perpetually lit with globes of light inset into the pillars. The chamber is a level below ground, encased in solid granite stonework and protected by runes which guard against eavesdropping. Water is circulated around the council table and chairs through aqueducts, it is kept pure and clean. The placid water is meant to remind the council of the value in peace. The water also provides a separation, none but the council members are permitted too close to the table. A ruling monarch of a particular kingdom can assert themselves and replace their council member, if they desire. It rarely happens this way though. In this even the Grand Master (Mistress) of the Souls Templar does not have a seat at the table unless called upon by the council.

Images

Regional Map
Guest Quarters
Dome from Inside
General Interior
Hall of the Rose

Knights of the Souls Templar

The Souls Templar was established by knights from various kingdoms who had served during the war and sought to uphold the peace that had been achieved.

Captain Eldric Thornwall (45, Male, Human)

Captain Eldric Thornwall stands as a formidable presence among the Souls Templar, his stature and demeanor encapsulating the essence of a seasoned warrior. At this moment, he is engulfed in a blend of determination and contemplation, his mind grappling with the weight of his responsibilities. His physical prowess is undeniable, his body a testament to years of rigorous training and battle, yet there's a flicker of weariness in his eyes—a longing for something beyond the endless conflict.

Description: Eldric is an imposing figure, standing well over six feet with broad shoulders that seem to bear the world's weight. His salt-and-pepper hair is kept short, practical for battle, and his deep-set eyes, a striking shade of steely gray, reflect a life of hard-earned wisdom. His face is marked with scars, each telling a story of battles past, and his hands are rough, the hands of a man who knows the weight of a sword.
Background: Born into a modest family in the outskirts of the Kingdom of Thaentis, Eldric's path to the Souls Templar was forged by a blend of necessity and a deep-seated sense of duty. His parents, though loving, could offer little in the way of material wealth, but they instilled in him a strong moral compass. He joined the Templars as a young man, seeking to make a difference in the world. His natural leadership abilities and unwavering commitment to the cause saw him rise through the ranks to Captain.
Profession: As a Captain in the Souls Templar, Eldric is not only a skilled warrior but also a tactician and leader. His prowess in combat is matched by his ability to inspire and command his troops. He specializes in defensive strategies, often turning the tide of battle with his innovative approaches to warfare.
Personal: Despite his martial exterior, Eldric has a softer side that he rarely shows. He finds solace in music, often playing the lute in the rare moments of peace. He has a small circle of close friends within the Templar, including his trusted lieutenant, Siras, and the wise healer, Maelin. His family now is the Templar, his bonds forged in the fires of battle.
Motives: Eldric's dedication to the Souls Templar is driven by a profound belief in their cause—to protect the realm and its people from the shadows that seek to engulf it. He sees his role not just as a duty, but as a calling, a way to bring light to a world often shrouded in darkness.
Goals: His immediate goal is to quell the rising tide of darkness encroaching on the kingdom's borders, a task that seems increasingly Sisyphean. Long-term, Eldric dreams of a time when his sword can rest, and peace will reign—allowing him to explore the world beyond the battlefields, perhaps even finding a quiet place to call his own.
Methods: Eldric is a man of honor and principle, adhering to the chivalric codes of the Templar. His strategies often involve not just brute force, but cunning and diplomacy. He is willing to go to great lengths for the greater good, but he draws the line at sacrificing the innocent or compromising his morals.

Captain Yorick Stormvale (47, Male, Human)

Captain Yorick Stormvale stands as a towering figure within the halls of the Souls Templar, embodying the seasoned wisdom and resilience of a knight who has weathered countless battles. At this moment, he carries the dual weight of his storied past and the responsibility of shaping the next generation of knights. His demeanor is one of quiet strength and unwavering resolve, his eyes reflecting the depth of his experience and the scars of battles long past. Physically, he bears the marks of a life dedicated to the knightly cause, his presence commanding respect and admiration.

Description: Captain Yorick is a striking figure, tall and imposing with a build that speaks to years of combat and training. His hair, once dark, has surrendered to streaks of grey, a testament to his years of service. His eyes, a piercing grey, hold the wisdom of his age and the stories of countless encounters. His face is marked by the passage of time, each line a story of laughter, loss, and the burdens of command. He is adorned in armor that, while bearing the marks of use, is maintained with the care of a warrior who respects his tools and his history.
Background: Born into a family with a long tradition of service within the Souls Templar, Yorick was immersed in the life of a knight from a young age. His upbringing was strict and disciplined, fostering a deep sense of duty and honor. Over the years, he rose through the ranks, not just through prowess in battle but through the wisdom and leadership he exhibited. He has seen many parts of the world, his missions taking him far from the Templar's stronghold, each journey adding to his wealth of experience.
Profession: Yorick is a revered knight and a seasoned mentor within the Templar order. His expertise is not limited to combat; he is also a strategist and a guide, his counsel sought by both peers and protégés. His current role involves training and guiding young knights, shaping them with the lessons forged from his own trials and triumphs.
Personal: Beyond his duties, Yorick is a man of depth and complexity. He finds solace in the quiet moments, often lost in books that range from ancient warfare tactics to the philosophies governing the moral compass of a knight. Though he is respected and admired, he keeps a small circle of close friends, finding camaraderie in those few who understand the sacrifices and solitude that come with their calling.
Motives: Yorick is driven by a deep-seated belief in the Templar's cause and the principles of knighthood. His experiences have taught him the weight of his role, not just as a protector but as a keeper of wisdom. He seeks to impart this knowledge to the next generation, ensuring that their hearts and swords serve the just and noble path.
Goals: His immediate goal is to ensure the readiness of his protégés, particularly Sir Darrin Sable, whom he sees great potential in. Long-term, Yorick aspires to leave a legacy within the Templar order, one that will endure through the knights he has molded and the values he has upheld.
Methods: Yorick's approach to his goals is one of steadfast dedication and meticulous planning. He believes in the balance of strength and wisdom, teaching his charges not just the art of combat but the importance of the moral and ethical dilemmas they will face. His methods are rigorous, yet tempered with the understanding that true strength is forged in the fires of adversity and reflection.

Sir Darrin Sable (22, Male, Human)

Sir Darrin Sable stands on the cusp of true knighthood, his heart brimming with the untested valor and idealism of youth. He is a picture of earnestness, his eyes wide with the sincere belief in the grand tales and legends of old. This moment finds him eager, yet naïve, his spirit undimmed by the harsher truths of the world beyond the cloistered halls of the Souls Templar. His physique is a testament to his dedication to training, strong and agile, though his mannerisms occasionally reveal the inexperience that clings to him like a shadow.

Description: Sir Darrin stands at an imposing height of 6'2", with a build that balances strength and agility, the product of rigorous discipline and training. His hair is a lustrous golden blonde, worn short and neat, providing a stark contrast to the deep, thoughtful blue of his eyes. Though he moves with a knight's grace, there's an underlying awkwardness that speaks of his youth. His skin bears the minor scars of training, but none yet tell tales of true battle.
Background: Born in a small village on the fringes of the Templar's influence, Darrin's life took a dramatic turn when he was captivated by the stories of a visiting knight. Leaving his family's farmstead behind, he sought to join the Souls Templar, driven by dreams of valor and righteousness. His childhood was simple, his education basic, until the Templar provided him with martial and religious instruction. He is an only child, with his parents, steadfast farmers, still living and supporting him from afar with their blessings.
Profession: As a knight-in-training within the Souls Templar, Darrin is at the beginning of his journey. His responsibilities are currently limited to his own development - mastering the arts of combat and understanding the duties of a Templar knight. His prowess in battle shows promise, yet lacks the refinement that comes with true experience.
Personal: Outside of his knightly obligations, Darrin's life is relatively straightforward. He values the companionship of his peers, eagerly absorbing the tales and lessons they share. His leisure time is often spent practicing his swordsmanship or riding. His closest companions include the younger members of the order, but Sir Yorick Stormvale, his mentor, holds a special place as a guiding force in his life.
Motives: Darrin is driven by a deep-seated desire to live up to the ideals of the Souls Templar - to defend the defenseless, to pursue justice, and to achieve greatness through brave deeds. His faith in the storied past of the Templars is unshakeable, guiding his every action.
Goals: Short-term, Darrin aims to undertake and succeed in his first significant mission, earning his place among his fellow knights not just in name, but in deed. In the long run, he dreams of becoming a legendary warrior, embodying the virtues of the Templar, and hopes to return to his village one day as a celebrated hero.
Methods: Darrin approaches his ambitions with a straightforward, if somewhat naïve, honesty. He believes in the power of good and divine favor to guide and protect him. His journey is one of learning to balance his idealistic views with the practical wisdom necessary for a knight, always striving to act with honor and integrity.

Craftsmen, Merchants, and Vendors

Many vendors, merchants, and craftsmen work in and for the Rose Palace, and the Souls Templar.

Tailor - Milo Thimble - 47, Male, Human

Milo Thimble stands as a testament to the art of tailoring, his small stature overshadowed by the grandeur of his creations. At this moment, he's immersed in a sea of fabrics and designs within the opulent Rose Palace, where his heart races with the thrill of his latest masterpiece. He is both physically and emotionally invested in his craft, each stitch a part of his soul. Presently, he seeks the perfect shade of silk that mirrors the dusk sky, a crucial piece for the Grand Mistress's gown.

Description: Milo is a compact man, standing at 5'3", with a frame that belies his strength. His hands, though small, are remarkably dexterous, a tailor's hands with nimble fingers made for the finest stitches. His hair is a sandy hue, often unkempt due to hours spent over his work, and his eyes are a sharp, observant hazel. His attire, always immaculate, showcases his own craftsmanship.
Background: Born into a lineage of tailors in a quaint village, Milo was cradled in fabrics and threads. His father, a humble tailor, and his mother, a skilled embroiderer, nurtured his talent from a young age. Despite their modest background, Milo's exceptional skill paved his way to the prestigious Rose Palace. He's a self-made man, his education rooted in the endless hours spent in his parents' shop, his craft honed by practice and passion rather than formal schooling.
Profession: As the head tailor of the Rose Palace, Milo oversees a legion of the realm's finest tailors and seamstresses, entrusted with adorning the Grand Mistress and her court. His expertise is unparalleled, his attention to detail legendary. He specializes in creating garments that are not only visually stunning but also imbue the wearer with a sense of power and grace.
Personal: Milo's life revolves around his work, his passion leaving little room for leisure. Yet, in rare moments of respite, he finds solace in sketching designs inspired by the palace gardens. His closest companions are his apprentices, particularly a young prodigy named Eliot, whom he sees as a surrogate son.
Motives: Milo's drive stems from a relentless pursuit of perfection and a deep-seated desire to leave a legacy through his creations. He sees each garment as a piece of art, an extension of the wearer's essence.
Goal: His immediate goal is to complete the Grand Mistress's gown, a piece he believes will be his magnum opus. Long-term, he dreams of crafting a masterpiece that will be celebrated for generations, securing his place in the annals of history.
Methods: Milo approaches his goals with a meticulous and methodical mindset. He spares no expense in sourcing the finest materials from across the land and is unyielding in his standards. Ethically, he is unwavering, believing in the integrity of his craft and the fair treatment of his apprentices, even if it means challenging the demands of the palace's higher echelons.

Thaddeus Grey (52, Male, Human)

Thaddeus Grey is a seasoned caravan driver, employed by the illustrious Grand Mistress of the Souls Templar. At this moment, he's feeling a mix of weariness from the road and a steadfast sense of duty. His life revolves around the journeys to and from the majestic Rose Palace and the nearby towns, ensuring the safe passage of the Grand Mistress's guests. Thaddeus is in need of nothing more than the open road and the next destination, always looking for the most efficient route. His experience and slightly gruff demeanor make him a respected figure among peers and passengers alike.

Description: Thaddeus stands at a solid 6 feet with a sturdy build, reflecting years of physical labor. His hair, once dark, is now peppered with grey, closely cropped to maintain a neat appearance. Deep-set blue eyes, weathered skin, and a scar that traces his left cheek speak of the many trials he's faced. His hands are calloused, his grip firm, and his posture speaks of a lifetime spent navigating treacherous paths.
Background: Born into a family of modest means in a small village, Thaddeus's early life was defined by hard work and close-knit community ties. He received a basic education but found his calling in the vast outdoors, learning the trade of a caravan driver from his father. After years of traversing the lands, he caught the eye of the Grand Mistress's scouts with his impeccable knowledge of the roads and was offered a position of great responsibility.
Profession: Thaddeus is an expert caravan driver, known for his unparalleled knowledge of every possible route across the region. His job entails not just driving but ensuring the safety and comfort of his passengers, maintaining the caravan, and sometimes negotiating with local merchants and checkpoint guards. He takes great pride in his work and is highly valued by the Grand Mistress for his reliability and expertise.
Personal: Outside of his professional life, Thaddeus is a man of simple pleasures. He enjoys whittling wood, a hobby that allows him to create intricate figures and tools during his downtime. His family includes a son and a daughter, both grown and living their own lives, with whom he maintains a strong, albeit distant, relationship. His closest companion is a loyal dog named Bax, who accompanies him on every journey. Bax was about as friendly as it was possible to be, but if anyone strayed too far away from camp Bax would go try to nip their heels until they came back, Bax is the 4th companion he's raised from a pup, who are provided by his daughter to keep him company. She breeds various working dogs and gives him the pick of the litter when he needs a new pup.
Motives: Thaddeus is driven by a sense of duty and a deep-seated loyalty to the Grand Mistress and her cause. His years on the road have instilled in him a love for travel and discovery, but his primary motivation is the safety and well-being of his charges.
Goals: His immediate goal is to ensure the safe and timely travel of the Grand Mistress's guests. In the long term, Thaddeus hopes to retire with a sense of accomplishment, passing on his knowledge to the next generation of drivers.
Methods: Thaddeus relies on his extensive experience and intuition to navigate the routes, always prepared for potential dangers. His combat abilities, while not extraordinary, include proficient use of a short sword and basic hand-to-hand combat skills, honed through years of dealing with bandits and wild animals. His approach to obstacles is pragmatic and straightforward, favoring negotiation and avoidance over conflict but ready to defend his caravan if necessary.