TownCrier Interview Sessions with Riend

Riend Ar'Fiernel Race Sylvankind Class Rogue

By Oubar, TownCrier Correspondent
/ 19 Eorgaen 5117 // December 19th, 2017 - in Kestrel's Perch

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Introduction

The Lady Riend is exactly that, a Lady. From her love of tea and shoes, to her reserved nature, Riend comes across as a gentle soul, with a wry, sometimes mischievous sense of humor. She is eminently approachable, and quick to lend a hand when needed. She has an impeccable sense of taste, and is known as somewhat of a clothes horse, with an affinity for fine-looking things. She made time during the busy holidays to sit down with the Crier's own Oubar.

"I am very, very good at being very, very quiet." ~Riend

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The In-Character Interview

[Upper Trollfang, Path]
A path meanders through large tree trunks encrusted with moss and lichens.  Underfoot, a thick carpet of leaves mutes footsteps, its soft brown tones spotted here and there with small dots of deep purple where woodland violets bloom.  You also see a wooden gate set into a tall stone wall.
Obvious paths: northeast

[Kestrel's Perch, Lawn]
The trees give way to a narrow, yet lush, lawn of grass which rings a country manor.  The sides of the dwelling are wooden shakes, and its roof is slate, most of which is covered with the vivid emerald of living moss.  Large rhododendron bushes frame a bright green door banded with iron and emblazoned with a painted soaring kestrel.  Dense forest stretches away from the lawn on all sides, the foliage filled with the sounds of crickets and owls.  You also see a wooden gate set into a tall stone wall.
Obvious paths: none

You knock upon a painted green door.
You open a painted green door.

[Kestrel's Perch, Sitting Room]
Polished oak paneling skirts the lodge, contrasting with green trim and upholstery on the generous leather armchairs.  A large trestle table occupies one of the room's ends, flanked by a number of carved oak chairs.  In the shadow of an overstuffed green sofa is a narrow slatted stairway, which leads upward to an open loft.  A stone hearth dominates all, occupying the long wall across from a painted green door.  Above the hearth, an immense elk trophy surveys its domain with a solemn gaze.  You also see a silver-gilt serving platter with some stuff on it, a polished ebonwood platter inlaid with vaalin roses and a vine-motif small cast iron stove with a hammered copper kettle on it.
Also here: Riend
Obvious exits: west

Riend removes a frosted purple glass jar from in her blossom-framed case.

The small cast iron stove emits a steady crackle as the handful of tinder inside is slowly consumed.

Riend smiles at you.

You grin at Riend.

Speaking to Riend, you exclaim, "Good evening!"

You close a painted green door.

Speaking kindly to you, Riend says, "Good evening."

A loud pop issues forth from the small cast iron stove as the wooden log inside starts to catch fire.

Riend clears her throat.

You say, "This really is a lovely place.  I was admiring the lawn."

A wavering glow dances behind the grate of the small cast iron stove, accompanied by the periodic cracking of burning wood.

You see Riend Ar'Fiernel the Master Artisan.
She appears to be a Sylvankind.
She is tall in stature and has a delicately lithe build.  She appears to be in the bloom of youth.  She has expressive, malachite-flecked chestnut eyes and gardenia white skin.  She has fine, textured hellebore black hair caught within a beaded silk snood beneath a flat-topped dark burnt velvet hat.  She has an oval face, a pair of rectangular fel glasses perched upon her gently sloped nose and slender shoulders.  Though her features are predominantly Sylvan, subtleties in the shape of her face and the tilt of her eyes appear faintly Erithian.  She has ivory-tipped cherry blossom pink polish brushed onto her squared fingernails.
She is in good shape.
She is holding a frosted purple glass jar in her right hand.
She is wearing an ornate skeleton key strung on a scalloped azure ribbon, a lace-strung ornate brooch choker, a puff-sleeve vanilla silk blouse ruffled along the scooped neck with a coffee and cream bourde shirt underneath, some tailored mocha twill overalls rivet-bound along the corseted front panel, a full-finger segmented copper ring, a pair of crossed wide leather belts, an enamel blossom-framed case, and a pair of short tri-toned taupe suede boots.

A wavering glow dances behind the grate of the small cast iron stove, accompanied by the periodic cracking of burning wood.

Speaking sheepishly to you, Riend says, "I thought I might have a bit more time to prepare the te-- Oh, oh my. Yes, the grounds here are very lovely, I am quite fortunate."

You grin at Riend.

Speaking to Riend, you say, "No worries at all.  Please finish if you like.  I'm in no particular hurry."

Riend smiles at you.

Speaking graciously to you, Riend says, "Please, have a seat and help yourself to a treat if you like."

You grin crookedly.

Riend indicates a silver-gilt serving platter as a possible option.

The intensity of the glow behind the small cast iron stove's grate dims slowly, a subdued reddish-orange replacing the yellow-white light, and visible waves of heat rise from its heating plate.

Riend toggles the latch on a frosted purple glass jar and flips back its lid.

Speaking to Riend, you say, "I don't mind if I do, at that."

You bow to Riend.

Riend takes some tea leaves from a frosted purple glass jar.

Riend flashes a quick grin at you.

You settle yourself on the leather armchair for a moment's rest.

Riend carefully measures out some tea leaves and places it into a hammered copper kettle.

Riend flips the lid of a frosted purple glass jar closed and toggles its latch to secure it shut.

Riend put a frosted purple glass jar in her blossom-framed case.

Riend removes an ornate skeleton key strung on a scalloped azure ribbon from her neck.

Riend put an ornate skeleton key strung on a scalloped azure ribbon in her blossom-framed case.

Faint waves of heat rise above the small cast iron stove, the fire burning inside casting a dancing reddish-orange glow through its grate.

Riend just went over and threw herself down on the sofa.

On the serving platter you see a gooey freshly baked brownie, a sugar-glazed cupcake, a sugar-glazed cupcake, a sugar-glazed cupcake and a small frosting-topped cake.

You beam happily at a silver-gilt serving platter!

Speaking to you, Riend mentions, "The tea will take a few minutes."

You say, "Oh my, those look a little too good."

You grin at Riend.

You remove a gooey freshly baked brownie from on a silver-gilt serving platter.

You beam happily at the freshly baked brownie in your hand.

Riend suddenly says, "Oh... I do hope you like tea? If not, I have some coffee in the kitchen. If it has not all been drank."

Thin ribbons of steam occasionally escape the copper kettle's spout.

Speaking to Riend, you assure, "Tea is quite nice for occasions like this."

You smile at Riend.

Riend nods approvingly.

You take a bite of your freshly baked brownie.  Warm and gooey, the brownie is very rich.  A nice scoop of ice cream might offset it well.
The gooey chocolate makes the freshly baked brownie a little difficult to eat.  You do the best you can to not get the gooey chocolate everywhere.
You have 4 bites left.

Faint waves of heat rise above the small cast iron stove, the fire burning inside casting a dancing reddish-orange glow through its grate.

Speaking amusedly to you, Riend says, "My mother likes to say that a cup of tea solves the world's problems."

You grin crookedly.

The water inside the copper kettle slowly starts to boil.

You say, "I don't know that I personally would go that far, but I can appreciate the sentiment."

You take a bite of your freshly baked brownie.  The rich dark chocolate brownie melts in your mouth, coating your tongue with sinful sweetness.
You have 3 bites left.

Riend gazes in amusement at you.

Speaking cautiously to Riend, you say, "My mother had a... different view."

You shrug at Riend.

Speaking curiously to you, Riend asks, "Oh?"

You close your eyes for a moment.

You say, "I spoke out of turn.  This evening is not about me, it's about you.  Perhaps another time.  It's not a happy tale."

The water inside the copper kettle has reached a constant rolling boil.

You raise your freshly baked brownie skyward!

You take a bite of your freshly baked brownie.  Warm and gooey, the brownie is very rich.  A nice scoop of ice cream might offset it well.
You have one bite left.

Riend flushes slightly, some color reaching her cheeks.

Riend nods understandingly to you.

Faint waves of heat rise above the small cast iron stove, the fire burning inside casting a dancing reddish-orange glow through its grate.

Speaking to Riend, you exclaim, "And speaking of which, I do want to thank you for agreeing to be interviewed for the Crier!"

Faint waves of heat rise above the small cast iron stove, the fire burning inside casting a dancing reddish-orange glow through its grate.

Speaking to Riend, you say, "Yours was a name high on my list, and I was very pleased that you were willing."

Speaking sincerely to you, Riend says, "I consider it an honor and am grateful for the opportunity."

Riend inclines her head.

Speaking to Riend, you say, "I can't speak to how much of an honor it might be, but am gratified that you feel that way."

Your cheeks darken with a deep carmine shade.

Faint waves of heat rise above the small cast iron stove, the fire burning inside casting a dancing reddish-orange glow through its grate.
Ribbons of steam rise above the copper kettle, carrying the subtle aroma of brewing tea.
Faint waves of heat rise above the small cast iron stove, the fire burning inside casting a dancing reddish-orange glow through its grate.

A small smile tugs at the corners of Riend's lips as she glances at you.

The faint glow within the small cast iron stove flickers for a moment and goes out.

Ribbons of steam rise above the copper kettle, carrying the subtle aroma of brewing tea.

Riend removes a hand-painted indigo tea bowl from the stack on the ebonwood platter.

Riend removes a hammered copper kettle from on a vine-motif small cast iron stove.

Riend carefully inspects her indigo tea bowl.

Riend put a hand-painted indigo tea bowl in her blossom-framed case.

Riend removes a hand-painted indigo tea bowl from in her blossom-framed case.

Speaking appreciatively to Riend, you ask, "Delicious... did you make the brownies yourself?"

Riend smiles at you.

Riend nods once.

You nod approvingly.

Speaking fondly to you, Riend says, "I have been dabbling in baking, I find rather peaceful."

You say, "Very nice.  I may have to send the White Haven chef down here to copy your recipe."

Speaking to you, Riend says, "I would be happy to send a copy back with you, if you like."

You nod appreciatively.

Speaking kindly to you, Riend says, "Here you are, be careful it is hot."

Riend offers you an ivory porcelain teabowl painted with teal arabesques.  Click ACCEPT to accept the offer or DECLINE to decline it.  The offer will expire in 30 seconds.

You accept Riend's offer and are now holding an ivory porcelain teabowl painted with teal arabesques.

You nod appreciatively.

Ribbons of steam rise above the copper kettle, carrying the subtle aroma of brewing tea.

Speaking to Riend, you say, "Thank you very much.  And this is an exquisite bowl..."

You blow on your ivory porcelain teabowl.

You take a drink from your ivory porcelain teabowl.  Heady and floral, the light teabowl is laced with honey.
You have 4 quaffs left.

You close your eyes for a moment.

Speaking gratefully to Riend, you say, "And delicious tea, to boot."

You wipe away the remaining gooey chocolate from your face with your hand.  Ever hear of a handkerchief?

Speaking clearly to you, Riend responds, "I am rather fond of the color. I found them in a small shop in Bourth on my last visit."

You raise your ivory porcelain teabowl in a toast!

Riend nods approvingly.

Riend takes a tiny sip of her ivory porcelain teabowl, warming her lips and making sure it's cool enough to drink.

You grin crookedly.

Speaking to Riend, you ask, "Well then, if you're ready, shall we begin?"

Riend takes a deep breath.

Riend nods once.

You nod encouragingly.

Speaking firmly to you, Riend says, "Let's, before I lose my nerve."

Riend grins sheepishly.

You say, "We like to start off slow, so apologies if I ask things that are already common knowledge."

You ask, "And in that vein, what is your profession?"

You smile at Riend.

Speaking slowly to you, Riend says, "I believe the closest thing it is commonly associated with here is a rogue."

Speaking to Riend, you ask, "And what name would you use, were you not trying to shoehorn it into conventional titles?"

You grin crookedly at Riend.

Riend thoughtfully taps a finger against her lips.

Speaking simply to you, Riend says, "I am very, very good at being very, very quiet."

Riend flashes a quick grin at you.

You nod approvingly.

Speaking to Riend, you ask, "What would you say is the best thing about the roguish professions?"

Riend looks thoughtfully at you.

Riend thoughtfully says, "We have the ability to be extremely versatile, no matter which path we choose to take."

You nod in agreement at Riend.

Riend adds, "There are very few avenues that are blocked off from us, I suppose one might say."

Speaking to Riend, you ask, "What started you on the path towards rogue-dom?  Was it something you always aspired to, or was there something that pushed you in that direction?"

Riend gazes with interest at an ivory porcelain teabowl painted with teal arabesques in her hand.

Riend honestly says, "I had considered the art of song, but learned early on I could not carry a tune in a bucket."

You try hard not to grin.

Riend says, "Being a ranger sounded like a wonderful idea... communing with nature, befriending animals and the like... but found that while I have some talent for spiritual magic, I could not touch their particular circle with any basic skill."

You nod understandingly.

Riend concludes, "So when all was said and done, I chose this and it has served me well."

Riend smiles at you.

You grin at Riend.

You ask, "You are known as a Master Artisan.  What skills have you mastered?"

You try hard not to grin.

Speaking surprisedly to you, Riend says, "I am? Oh my... that is certainly news, good news though not the bad kind."

You grin at Riend.

Riend clears her throat.

Speaking to Riend, you say, "Indeed you are.  And while I'm personally aware of at least one of your specialties, we can at least get it on record."

Speaking to you, Riend answers, "I learned fletching very early on in life. Cobbling started out as a fascination and became one of my favorite hobbies and recently I have taken up painting to slightly less successful end."

You give a short little hum of surprise.

Speaking to Riend, you say, "I hadn't realized you'd taken up painting!  That sounds like a logical progression from cobbling, though."

Riend gazes in amusement at you.

Speaking to Riend, you say, "It's making art in a visual medium through the productive use of your hands."

You shrug at Riend.

Speaking to you, Riend says, "I have watched some of the masters work and it always seems so graceful, watching the brush dance across the canvas and transform it into something magnificent."

Riend notes, "Though of course, when I paint it looks more like a rolton sneezed, but I am learning."

Speaking amusedly to Riend, you say, "I'm sure it's nowhere near as bad as all that, and the important thing is to always improve."

You adopt an agreeable expression.

Riend nods in agreement to you.

Speaking to Riend, you ask, "What is your preferred hunting method?"

Speaking slowly to you, Riend responds, "I prefer to keep my distance and hunt from the shadows or any tactically advantageous place using a balance of magic and archery."

You nod appreciatively.

Speaking to Riend, you say, "As a brawler, I can appreciate those tactics."

You grin wryly.

Riend nods approvingly to you.

Speaking to you, Riend says, "I have a great respect for those who fight with their hands, it is not something I find myself skilled at."

Riend nods.

Speaking to Riend, you say, "It's more about doggedness than skill... at least for me, anway."

You chuckle to yourself.

Riend chuckles to herself.

Speaking to Riend, you ask, "Normally I'd ask what town you call home, but since we're here in this lovely residence, can you tell us a bit about it?  How did you come to be its owner?"

Riend glances appraisingly around the room.

Riend nods once to you.

Speaking to you, Riend explains, "This is Kestrel's Perch, a small cottage on the outskirts of the Trollfang forest that borders the Cairnfang."

You nod understandingly.

Riend continues, "I purchased the property at auction for a princely sum and have used it, I think, to help those I could over the years."

You nod approvingly at Riend.

Speaking to Riend, you query, "Are you married?"

You grin at Riend.

Riend blinks at you.

Riend surprisedly blurts, "Goodness, no."

Speaking to Riend, you say, "It's on the sheet.  I have to ask."

You grin at Riend.

Riend blushes sheepishly to herself.

Speaking to Riend, you ask, "Any particular reason why not?"

Riend squirms and fidgets oddly for a moment.

Speaking to Riend, you ask, "Or just not had the right opportunity yet?"

Out of the corner of your eye you observe Riend studying you, contemplation knitting her brow.  Noticing your glance, she blinks a few times in rapid succession before quickly looking away, a faint blush coloring her cheeks.

Speaking awkwardly to you, Riend responds, "Family obligations make it impossible for to marry, at this time."

Riend quietly adds, "Someday though, perhaps I could see settling down with the right person."

Riend brushes her fingers lightly against her ornate brooch choker.

You smile at Riend.

Speaking quietly to Riend, you ask, "Anyone in particular in mind?"

Riend blushes a pink hue to the tips of her ears.

Riend squeaks, "No, no one comes to mind."

Riend glances away from you.

You nod slowly at Riend.

Speaking to Riend, you ask, "Do you belong to one of the Great Houses?"

You smile at Riend.

Riend nods to you.

Speaking to Riend, you ask, "Which one?"

Speaking to you, Riend answers, "I am a member of Rone Academy."

You nod approvingly.

Speaking to Riend, you ask, "A very fine House.  What about Rone drew you to them?"

Speaking slowly to you, Riend says, "My people keep a verbal history and pass down our knowledge through stories and teachings."

You nod understandingly.

Speaking to you, Riend says, "It comes naturally to me to want to pass on those things I have learned in my lifetime to those around me, and I found that Rone gives me the greatest opportunity to do so."

Speaking to Riend, you ask, "What would you say is your most prized possession?"

Riend looks thoughtfully at you.

Speaking teasingly to Riend, you remark, "Just wait, the hard one is still to come."

You grin crookedly.

Riend gazes in amusement at you.

Speaking to you, Riend teases, "I can still run away, if it becomes too much."

Riend tugs the braided silk chain of her silver filigree locket and lifts the piece from its hiding place in her vanilla silk blouse.

Speaking agreeably to Riend, you say, "You definitely could, but it won't get that bad, I promise."

Riend reaches out and touches her silver filigree locket.

Riend nods slowly to you.

Speaking thoughtfully to you, Riend says, "This locket is my most prized possession."

Speaking quietly to Riend, you ask, "Can you tell us about it?"

Riend nods faintly.

Riend quietly says, "It was a gift, given to me by someone very dear to me."

You nod understandingly.

Speaking wryly to you, Riend mentions, "He tried to kill me once."

You chuckle at Riend
.
Riend adds, "Later, he asked me to be his queen... to rule beside him."

Riend shakes her head, clucking her tongue.

You nod encouragingly at Riend.

Speaking to you, Riend clarifies, "It is my most prized possession because it, like the man who gave it to me, serves to remind me of the line that I walk. How far I have come these past years and that with even the slightest slip I could become something else, something I would not wish to ever become."

You blink at Riend.

Speaking to Riend, you ask, "And what would that something else be?"

Riend bites her lip.

Speaking to you, Riend says, "It is hard to explain, it hovers on the edge of my periphery most of the time. All I can say is that it would be nothing like the person I am now."

You nod slowly at Riend.

Riend looks thoughtful for a moment, then shrugs.

Speaking to Riend, you say, "My Lady operates most often in those unseen edges of understanding, so your words make sense to me."

You nod understandingly at Riend.

Riend smiles at you.

Riend inclines her head.

You grin crookedly at Riend.

You ask, "What would you say is your most valuable or unique possession?  From a purely monetary standpoint?"

Speaking quickly to you, Riend answers, "My longbow would be my most valuable possession."

You flash a wide grin.

Speaking to Riend, you ask, "And while I'm familiar with it, could you explain its significance?"

Speaking to you, Riend says, "It is a fairly magical weapon that creates its own arrows, each one carrying its own unique flare and capable of hitting undead. It has been enchanted as far as a wizard possibly could, as well."

Riend nods.

You nod slowly at Riend.

Speaking to Riend, you say, "It's an amazing weapon, to be sure."

Riend nods in agreement to you.

You rub your chin thoughtfully.

Speaking to you, Riend says, "I am extremely lucky to be allowed to wield her."

Speaking to Riend, you ask, "Would you be willing to give us a rough estimate of the amount of silver you have in the bank?"

You grin at Riend.

Riend chuckles to herself.

Speaking to Riend, you add, "And if not, of course I understand."

Riend embarrassedly confesses, "I have been spending a bit too much as of late..."

You nod slowly.

You say, "Oh, I can relate."

Riend thoughtfully says, "I believe my bank account stills comfortably over a hundred million."

You nod approvingly at Riend.

Speaking to Riend, you ask, "Would you be willing to share the contents of a locker with the readers?  No explanations or details, just a peek?"

Riend's face turns slightly pale.

You grin at Riend.

Riend awkwardly says, "Only on one condition."

Speaking to Riend, you ask, "Of course!  What condition?"

Speaking firmly to you, Riend says, "No judging."

You nod in agreement.

Riend nods once.

Riend removes a pure white locker manifest from in her blossom-framed case.

Riend opens the cover on her locker manifest.

Riend takes a deep breath.

You nod encouragingly at Riend.

Speaking to herself, Riend mumbles, "I am most likely going to regret this."
Riend shows you her locker manifest.
Locker contents of Riend Ar'Fiernel, the Sylvankind, as recorded in Wehnimer's Landing:
On an armor stand:
  some black leather boots braced with steel at the vamp
  some taupe kidskin knee-boots strapped with cut-out leather
    a brass and gold sphere
  a pair of shapely cameo pink polka-dotted satin slouched boots
  a pair of tall ribbon-laced leather boots with chunky monir heels (marked)
  some leather high-heeled shoes partially concealed beneath olivine canvas spatterdashes
  some cobalt floral cut-out leather knee-boots lined with painted silk
  some folded olivine suede ankle-boots
  a pair of strapped tangerine leather ankle-boots
  some marbled grey leather boots perched on smoky glaes heels
  a pair of damask high-heeled shoes beneath slouched vanilla leather spatterdashes (marked)
  a pair of lovely blush rose-sprigged silk open-toed slippers
  a pair of leather-latticed rose suede ankle-boots
  some tall alabaster leather ankle-boots enveloped in down-turned albino alligator skin cuffs
  some riveted lacquered paper knee-boots (marked)
On a weapon rack:
  some polished onyx leather knee-boots lofted on cast steel tentacles
  a pair of short asymmetrically-cuffed leather boots lofted on thin copper heels
  a puff-sleeved black linen shirt with a plunging scoop neckline
  some flared mocha twill pants (marked)
  a distressed leather mask set with large brass-framed goggles (marked)
  a black-on-brown broadcloth shoulder harness edged in ruffles
  some geared knee-high cocoa boots with attenuated cherrywood heels (marked)
  a wide mocha leather cincher centered with a raised clockwork design
In a magical item bin:
  a striped argent and blue token
  a shard of pink petalite (marked)
  a shard of pale grey shadowglass
  a slender crystalline vial
  a length of cream chainsil
  a turquoise and teal ostrich feather
  a teal and silver nalatha agate (marked)
  a jade-infused rich teal bottle
  a silver braid-edged mirror (marked)
  a grey-flecked ivory osprey feather
  a pitch black Caligos conch shell strung on a length of indigo sea silk
  an aqua-banded teal nathala agate (marked)
  a ribbon-looped faenor key
  a twisted maoral broomstick
  a square auction block with a smooth polished surface
  some twisted faenor hoops
  a side-cocked diminutive silk tricorn
  a cap-sleeved white linen tunic
  a jewel-studded black ash chest
  a green-tinged azulene peacock feather
  a thin twined rose gold circlet (marked)
  a flat-top striped henna twill hat banded in canvas loops (marked)
  a wisp-etched pale amber-set flask with an ebonwood stopper
  a smooth wrotwood telescope with a brass eyepiece
  a tapered nail file with a smooth jade handle
  a twine-bound old sketch book
  a fluffy ball of cotton
  a translucent long-bodied ampoule blushed with rose
  a dusky sanguine glass phial capped with an alabaster cherry blossom (marked)
  a wide paisley-patterned headband of white embroidered lace (marked)
  a matte white glass vial
  a layered cream and grey organza silk headband (marked)
  a fused ornament of kelyn filigree clock-hands (marked)
  a double-leaf silver lariat necklace suspending a square of petrified thanot
  a pair of mechanical goggles with oversized glass lenses (marked)
  a tapered leather mesh thigh-quiver
  a copper clockwork rose ring
  a viridian crystal-inset ring
  a small golden arrow-shaped pin
  a spiny pink-throated cream conch shell (marked)
  a burnt steel cephalopod fascinator wreathed in writhing tentacles
  a turquoise and teal ostrich feather
  an elegant filigreed mirror on a thin silver chain (marked)
  an enameled wooden bucket
  a silver braid-edged mirror
  a pale ivory bottle painted with sephwir branches
  an eleven-pointed silver star barrette
In a clothing wardrobe:
  some fitted leggings of overlapping webbed dark leather
  a soft russet cashmere shawl
    some coppery silk-on-velvet chopines
    a split-sleeved gown of elegantly draped copper matte silk
    a low-pointed tortoiseshell diadem set with a black amber jewel
  a high-waisted dark silk skirt buttoned down a single column
  a pair of tight membranous black leather leggings
  an ebon-trimmed cream byssine skirt printed with a detailed map (marked)
  a cincher of soft grey rabbit fur secured with wooden beading
  a painted black satin underbust corset (marked)
  a puff-sleeved teal satin blouse caught with nacre at the fitted cuffs
  a bustled storm grey taffeta skirt overlaid with an ombre of teal glass shards (marked)
  a puff-sleeved white cotton shirt open at the collar
  a pair of side-buttoned ivory twill pants
  a knee-length taupe cotton pinafore with a flat corset front (marked)
  a single-sleeve vanilla silk blouse (marked)
  a mocha leather cross-strapped corset (marked)
  a bronze-sheened olivine dupioni silk corset with a short raised collar (marked)
  a high-waisted mint green muslin tunic with a layered cowl neckline (marked)
  a pair of high-waisted mocha wool breeches buttoned in two descending rows
  a mint-striped ivory taffeta skirt bustled in tiers of ruffled satin and lace
  a drop-waisted mint charmeuse tunic
  some shell pink twill leggings
  an off-shoulder cream lace shirt
  some brushed dark suede pants cross-laced at the ankles
  a trim-cut ivory silk shirt
  a black leather corset fettered with silver buckles
  a formal cream linen blouse caught with a flounce of lace at the throat
  a canvas-belted mocha leather corset
  a pair of ruched kohl black leather leggings
  an off-shoulder ivory silk blouse
  a jet and glass-beaded hourglass corset
  some lightly ruched leggings of eggshell silk gauze
  a long-sleeved dusky mulberry cotton shirt (marked)
  a shoulder-draped cropped cameo pink silk top
  a long-sleeved onyx cotton blouse with a ruffled bib neckline (marked)
  a jewel-toned purple silk corset
  a brocade and lace underbust corset
  a sculpted oxblood leather waistcoat cut to expose the gear-caught bust
  a tailored slate blue linen vest with thin vertical striping
  an embossed dark leather waistcincher
  an embossed coffee leather waist-cincher
  a bustled skirt of artfully crinkled beige chiffon
  an off-shoulder white lace shirt buttoned from wrist to elbow
  a tea-length ecru ruffled dress (marked)
  a band-collared pale pinstriped blouse with short capped sleeves
  a claret satin hourglass corset (marked)
  a thigh-length white cotton chemise ruffled along the high to low hemline
  a pleated ivory linen shirt
  a high-waisted blue muslin tunic hemmed in scalloped tonal lace (marked)
  a short skirt of white and ecru ruffles beneath a taupe canvas yoke
  a black linen blouse buttoned diagonally from the high neck
  a tailored cesious linen waistcoat
  a long-sleeved matte black linen shirt
  a short ruffled mocha cotton skirt with an ankle-length bustle
  a pair of knee-length ecru pantaloons of alternating lace and cotton ruffles
  a sculpted corset of ecru rose lace silhouettes over tonal silk
  a puff-sleeved vannilla cotton shirt caught with a single button
  a clockwork paneled leather corset
  a shoulder-draped lichen silk blouse (marked)
  a tailored dark blue linen shirt
  a hip-length silk hourglass corset scaled in thin overlapping slices of green amber
  a calligraphic vellum-panelled corset cinched by some lace cut-out ribbons
  an ebon-shadowed turquoise taffeta corset
  a cream and blush pink bourde corset edged in frilly lace
  a short rose-on-blue tartan skirt with ivory lace trim peeking below the hem
  a thinly striped navy tweed waistcoat contrasted by coral-on-cream polka dot lapels
  a pair of brown and green tartan pants with a high leather waist
  a tartan-lined myrtle tweed pinafore
  a cap-sleeved cream linen blouse
  a pair of knee-length charcoal suede breeches flared at the hip (marked)
  some ribbed ashen grey wool leggings
  a tailored cream-on-white bourde shirt (marked)
  a pair of low-slung chocolate brown linen pants with wide black stripes (marked)
  a scoop-necked crocheted lace shirt
  a puff-sleeved ecru crepe blouse open at the collar
  a bustled sky blue day dress vertically striped with yellow-banded ivory
  a single-shoulder bistre twill vest offset by a trio of tonal buttons (marked)
  a pair of flat-fronted bloused fallow twill breeches (marked)
  some slim-fitted almond sueded leather pants
  a tailored cream bourde blouse (marked)
  a niveous tulle halter dress appliqued along the hem and bodice in cardinal florals
  an open-weave ebon paeline sweater ruffled along the cut-away hem (marked)
  a pointed underbust corset of emerald-on-jade floriated silk jacquard (marked)
  a cap-sleeved black silk blouse
  a strapless laurel green linen dress accented with lace at the knee-length hem
  a jewel-tone azure muslin tunic with a layered cowl neckline
  a single-strapped column gown of silk-backed glinting smoky glaes beadwork
In a deep chest:
  a thrice-looped thin copper lavaliere dripping with variegated teardrop pearls
  some mismatched cream and pink kneesocks
  a lengthy hematite chelioboros pendant backed in ebon glass (marked)
  a petrified kakore hexagon bangle
  a perfect winter rose adorned with white and blue ribbons
  some layered ebon silk and taffeta petticoats (marked)
  some fingerless gloves of hand-tatted dark lace
  a pair of tiny silver loops
  a Mandis Crystal shard
  an abbreviated black leather shrug bristling with a collar of dark metal spikes
  a thrice-wrapped constricting steel tentacle choker
  a floor-length pair of squared off forearm sleeves (marked)
  a pair of blue-on-orange tartan suspenders backed in silk
  a deeply cowled cream plumille coat flaring out from the cinctured waist (marked)
  a silk-backed choker of overlapping fused metal gears
  a downward crescent of pearl-inset copper suspending a fan of filigreed ivory petals (marked)
  a pair of amber drops capped with a quartet of tiny bronze beads (marked)
  an ivory cameo framed in intricate clockwork
  a twining necklet of lacquered lor branchwork (marked)
  a chain-strung copper corset stay suspending a trio of filigree keys
  a gilt-edged alabaster box
  a pair of slim twilled copper suspenders
  a wide fel choker suspending a trio of ivory cameos (marked)
  a pair of silk-backed copper mesh spatterdashes
  an oversized cream-striped mocha paeline scarf (marked)
  a delicate clockwork hummingbird suspended on a thin silken cord (marked)
  a low-slung chain mesh belt (marked)
  a tortoiseshell-buttoned cowl of crochet vanilla wool
  a wide oiled leather wristcuff (marked)
  a paper-thin scarlet enamel poppy choker
  some sage-hued tartan wool stockings
  a stylized steel kraken
  some gear-weighted ribbons
  a pair of knee-high fawn brocade spatterdashes framed by antique lace (marked)
  a cameo-clasped choker of overlapping fused metal cogs
  a sheaf of parchment maps
  a handful of assorted gears
  a silver dolphin symbol set in blue coral
  some dark brocade spatterdashes caged in vaalin latticework (marked)
  some twilled copper-buttoned suspenders
  a pair of stylized copper earcuffs
  a fob-strung collection of mismatched skeleton keys
  a pair of grey wool earmuffs
  a dart-waisted dark bourde coat hooded in tonal paeline (marked)
  a series of slender copper hairpins
  a trio of hip-slung overlapping leather belts (marked)
  some over-the-knee coffee and cream striped linen socks
  a quintet of variegated gold beaded necklaces
  a blue amber sleeping fox pendant
  a smoke-filled glass vial pendant
  a simple half-mask adorned with brass clockwork pieces
  a long strand of graduated creamy white pearls
  some pastel pink and blue striped knee-high socks
  an oxidized steel kraken choker
  a thick onyx cloisonne wristlet
  a dainty copper bracelet (marked)
  a kelyn-framed mosaic map brooch
  a tight ball of stark white silk (marked)
  a trio of carved ivory hoops
  a soft black orchid pendant swept with pale silver patterns
  a coraesine and dark bloodjewel ring (marked)
    a packet of nightshade
  a pair of elbow length grey flyrsilk gloves
  a pure white mink shrug
  a pendular stained glass doorknob and key lariat necklace
  some wide-buckled straps
  a pair of chandelier earrings dangling fragile shoulder-length latticework
Obvious items:  225

You blink.

Speaking distractedly to Riend, you say, "Thank you for that."

You blink.

Riend grins crookedly at you.

Speaking mischievously to you, Riend teases, "Take a moment to let it sink in."

Riend closes the cover on her locker manifest.

Riend put a pure white locker manifest in her blossom-framed case.

You close your eyes for a moment.

You nod firmly.

You say, "Right, then."

You chuckle.

Riend appears to be struggling to keep a straight face.

Riend takes a drink from her ivory porcelain teabowl.

Speaking to Riend, you ask, "What would you say is your most memorable moment in your time as an adventurer?"

Riend thoughtfully taps a finger against her lips.

Riend says, "Many years ago, I was the unfortunate host to a rather malevolent ghost. She spent a year tearing me apart from the inside while attempting to manipulate me into killing a man she once loved."

You blink at Riend.

Riend carefully says, "The night she was exorcised was my most memorable moment. It was the night I regained my freedom."

Riend nods slowly to you.

Speaking carefully to Riend, you say, "That's certainly memorable."

Riend nods in agreement.

You shudder.

Speaking offhandedly to you, Riend remarks, "I would not suggest trying it, very unpleasant."

You nod in agreement at Riend.

Speaking to Riend, you say, "And finally...."

You grin at Riend.

Riend glances warily at you.

Riend holds her breath.

Speaking to Riend, you ask, "Who would you say is the most important, influential person in your life?"

Speaking quietly to Riend, you remark, "This one really isn't fair, or so I'm told, but it's on the sheet."

Riend bites her lip.

Speaking hesitantly to you, Riend says, "That is certainly a difficult question indeed."

You nod in agreement at Riend.

Speaking to Riend, you say, "It's always at this point that I'm glad I'm on this side of the table."

Riend slowly says, "There are so many people in my life who have affected me in some way or helped mold me into the woman I am today... to single out one specific person seems almost unfair to the rest. However..."

You nod encouragingly at Riend.

Riend says, "If I had to choose that person, it would be someone who has always helped me, by his actions as well as his words, to be a better person. Even when the choices before me were both unfavorable, he has aided me to see clearly and to do what is right regardless of its popularity."

You nod approvingly.

Speaking to you, Riend concludes, "It would be Sir Bristenn Mires, Knight of the Empire."

You nod understandingly.

Speaking to Riend, you say, "A worthy name to be chosen."

Speaking to Riend, you ask, "And with that, I have come to the end of my questions!  That wasn't so bad, was it?"

You grin at Riend.

Riend glances skeptically at you.

You grin crookedly at Riend.

Riend disgruntledly says, "I should not have baked."

You blink at Riend.

Riend flashes a quick grin at you.

Riend takes a drink from her ivory porcelain teabowl.

Speaking to Riend, you say, "You did wonderfully.  I've done a number of these, and you did a tremendous job."

Speaking gently to you, Riend assures, "It was quite enjoyable."

Speaking to Riend, you say, "And I will certainly look to set up another time to go into a little more detail on some things."

Riend smiles at you.

Speaking warmly to Riend, you say, "Thank you so very much for setting aside some time to meet with me.  It was a genuine pleasure, and I'm very pleased with how it turned out."

You grin at Riend.

Speaking to you, Riend says, "Thank you, this was very enjoyable. I rarely get the opportunity to speak to people these days."

Riend flushes slightly, some color reaching her cheeks.

You smile at Riend.

Speaking to Riend, you say, "This time of year especially, time truly seems to grow wings."

You stand back up.

Interlocking your fingers, you slowly extend your arms up over your head in a long, satisfying stretch.

Riend stands up.

Riend nods in agreement to you.

Speaking to you, Riend says, "It seems to be the boon and the curse of the holiday season."

Speaking to Riend, you say, "Thank you once more.  If you have any questions or concerns before you hear back from me, please feel free to send a letter."

Riend nods once.

You extend a hand to Riend.

Speaking to you, Riend says, "I will, thank you again."

Riend shakes your hand.

You grin at Riend.

Riend tosses her ivory porcelain teabowl into the air, where it appears to vanish!

Riend flashes a quick grin at you.

You say, "A pleasure, as always, to spend time with you.  Have a wonderful evening."

You bow to Riend.

Riend flushes slightly, some color reaching her cheeks.

Speaking to you, Riend says, "You as well, thank you so much."

Riend smiles at you.

You open a painted green door.

You turn toward Riend and render a sharp hand salute.

You chuckle.

Riend renders a sharp hand salute.

[Kestrel's Perch, Lawn]
The trees give way to a narrow, yet lush, lawn of grass which rings a country manor.  The sides of the dwelling are wooden shakes, and its roof is slate, most of which is covered with the vivid emerald of living moss.  Large rhododendron bushes frame a bright green door banded with iron and emblazoned with a painted soaring kestrel.  Dense forest stretches away from the lawn on all sides, the foliage filled with the sounds of crickets and owls.  You also see a wooden gate set into a tall stone wall.
Obvious paths: none

You close a painted green door.

---

It is a storytellers playground to be sure ~ Riend

---

The Out-of-Character Interview

What’s your real name? (First name only please)

Jennifer

About how old are you, if you don't mind?

37

Where are you located, geographically?

Madison, WI

What do you do for a living?

Web Developer/Graphic Designer

Describe your normal play space for us. Laptop/PC/Tablet... Office/basement/kitchen... what sort of stuff do you have in/on the space... etc etc etc Depending on the where/when/who/how...

I have a desktop in my office or my macbook in whatever coffee shop/park/corner I can find depending on my mood and the weather

How long have you played Gemstone?

Hrm... Roughly twenty-one years.

Have you taken any breaks, or played straight through?

I took a break from the game between 2002-2010.

How many different ‘main’ characters have you had over the years?

Honestly, Riend is and will always be my main character. I tend to always gravitate back to her because she's so opposite of me that playing her has always been a challenge. I do have two other "alts" that I enjoy playing, but they're both more like extensions or facets of my personality.

Who are/were your most notable characters

Riend.

Do you have multiple accounts that you play at the same time?

I do have a second account mainly for housing my ridiculously large cobbling material collection and for spelling myself up.

Do you have a Premium subscription?

Yes.

What front-end do you use? (Stormfront, Wizard, Profanity, other)?

SF

Why?

I've never tried Profanity and would certainly consider it, but SF's clickable links always brings me back. I've spent a number of years playing MMOs and it's gotten me into the habit of being a "clicker" so it just feels more natural.

Do you use lich?

Yes.

Why or why not?

If I were to delete every aspect of lich and just keep the go2 functionality, it would still be amazing. Being able to take a world as big as Elanith and navigate it without having to print out maps is a game changer.

If so, what are your ‘must-have’ scripts?

Aside from go2, a lot of little things like sorter, locker/manifest, keepalive are big for me on a day to day basis.

Have you ever bought or sold characters or items for real money?

Not characters, I'm far too attached to them. I have sold items for real money, but I don't normally make a habit of it.

Do you now, or have you ever roleplayed a character that was very different from your real personality?

Yes, as I mentioned before, Riend is as opposite my personality as you can get.

Why or why not?

It's challenging and it forces me to think deeply about my character's choices and how they will affect both her and myself. It's extremely hard not to align her with my personal opinions about NPCS, events, etc but that is also part of the enjoyment of playing a character you can honestly has her own separate moral compass.

What would you say is your most memorable Gemstone ‘moment’ (as a player) , and why?

The night Riend received her "Defender of Wehnimer's Landing" title. She was in the first group of people who received the titles after a very long, painful and heart-wrenching storyline. I had the utmost respect and awe for the people I was "titled" with and it felt good to know that despite all of the heartache, pain and sleepless nights, we'd done something amazing and came together as a team.

What's the luckiest you've gotten in-game? (big raffle win, finding vorpal sword of doom, surviving something cataclysmic, being in just the right place at just the right time, etc)

Winning a full feature alteration suite with Grishom Stone. At the time, my character was possessed by the ghost of the ex-lover he had murdered and he was plotting my demise in order to capture her spirit in his ceremonial dagger. Riend's features had undergone a harsh change over the course of the year she was possessed and the opportunity to RP that situation out with him of all people was ironic and fun.

What's the hardest you've laughed while playing GS?

A number of us including Greganth, Seomanthe, Bristenn, Maags, Rtune, Kerl and myself had hatched a plan to go in and save Cosima from the Rooks back during the CIS storyline. We'd been directed to an underground hideout and we headed on in, ready to save the princess from Koopa only to (spoiler alert) hear from Toad that our princess was in another castle. At one point, Kenstrom dropped about 30 bandits on us (we'd apparently been destroying them too efficientlyup until that point). Well, despite all our attempts we wiped in the most spectacular fashion. Thus began the two hour raise-fest. Not wanting to give our location away to the enemy (those siding with the Rooks) and compromising the rescue, we didn’t ask anyone to come rescue us and locating/fogging in or out was impossible. Maags raised herself and began the arduous task of raising the 10 of us who were there. Finally, an hour+ later, we're all raised and spelling up and prepping to continue on... when Kerl decides that the trapped door I'd disarmed before we died was ready to bash. Well, the trap had rearmed itself and BOOM! Everyone had died again (except Kerl), so he used a scroll to raise Maags and we started raising people all over again. At the time it was not at all funny, but now we laugh pretty hard about it.

What, in your mind, is the best thing about Gemstone?

The lack of forced paths/rulesets. While our characters do have specific cultural/race guidelines our backgrounds, rp-style and adventures are restricted only by our imaginations. It is a storytellers playground to be sure.

Have you ever attended Simucon, or otherwise met up with a person from Gemstone?

Many times

If so, describe the experience (PG-13, please)

Some of my fondest memories are drinking with my simucon friends, both past and present.

Imagine you're Wyrom for a day and can 'do' one thing (and that you could accomplish anything in that one day without time considerations). What are you changing/removing/adding/replacing, and why?

I would get rid of arrows and make all bows self-ammo, finally allowing them to benefit from all the various flares and options the game offers including greater flares, rot flares, permablessing, etc... Ammo management has led to a great deal of frustration for me in the past. The eblading/blessing of arrows continues to be a thorn in almost every ranged player’s side and while some may say it is the balance to the overpowered state of archery as a whole, I feel it could be improved.

What do you feel is the biggest mistake that most GS players make?

Understanding that actions made against/by your character are not insults/actions meant to be personal to you as a player or the person you're playing with.

Why do you feel they make that mistake?

It is very easy to become emotionally invested in our character and to feel that people's interactions with our characters are really interactions with us as people.

Why do you feel it's such a bad mistake?

It fosters bad relationships between people. Clear communication can be very hard, especially when we're in the middle of a story and events are moving quickly.

What’s something that you feel every GS player should do at least once?

Visit the Kai shrine in the Landing, read the stones and reflect.

Why?

It's a truly powerful place.

What advice would you offer to a new player?

Download lich, turn off lnet. Log in, try and get involved and never feel discouraged if you're not the in the spotlight. Good RP will always be rewarded, the rewards just may not come in the form you always want or when you want it. Ask questions, read the wiki and never feel like you can’t reach out to other people. We’ve all been where you are.