[center][h1][url=https://dicecloud.com/character/t7LmRFxjhnhTLufnP/Ada-Mavros][color=f26522]Ada [img]https://i.imgur.com/mTnqgBv.png[/img] Mavros[/color][/url][/h1][/center][hr]
The duchess paced in the sitting room as she waited for her audience to arrive. This was one of the biggest things that had happened in Mavros for years, and it was natural to be nervous, or so Ada told herself. A large group of the strongest warriors would be gathered together to face the fates of the world, to receive biddings of gods and men. She had been briefed on those who made their way up the streets by word of a few [i]Messages[/i], and the names she heard excited her. Her royal circlet was adjusted on her head for the fourteenth time, and she shifted the strap of the magical quiver that held much of her combat gear. It was almost time.

"Relax, Ada," the soothing tone from her older brother sounded from where he waited patiently. "Your fretting will not hasten their steps."

[color=f26522]"Are you sure everything will be fine without me, Vinnie?"[/color] Ada asked once again, knowing the answer already. The Minister of Defense had already stepped up his duties, and the increased security for the evening was one sign of his stalwart endeavors. In fact, when he had presented his plans, she had even praised him for his forward thinking and planning. A rare response from the duchess, to be sure.

"You will be sorely missed, Ada, but the city will manage," Vinnie replied. "Focus your mind on the task ahead, and we will prevail." The duke held up a hand for a moment as he received another arcane message, then nodded in response. "They have passed through the portcullis. Let's go."

Arm in arm, the Twin Dukes of Mavros began their exit, planning to meet the incoming party as they crossed the courtyard. There was little fanfare to their passage through the door, although a page did announce the names of the duke and duchess. Ada glanced through those who had gathered, smiling warmly at the faces she recognized. 

[color=f26522]"Welcome, brave warriors from far and wide,"[/color] she announced. [color=f26522]"My brother and I thank you for answering the summons. It is not any mere man or woman who can face these threats, but the best. You are the best that this world has to offer."[/color]

Duke Vicente stepped forward, continuing the address. "You may be wondering who called you here. You will notice the absence of the Seal of Mavros on the notices, and that we did not send the invitation. In fact, it was sent without our knowledge, with our city hosting the initial summons. However, as the tidings bring important potential changes to the world and our fates, we have agreed to not only welcome you with open arms, but to also send one of our own." Vinnie smiled to Ada, and she returned his gaze with a nod. "Duchess Ada Mavros, my sister and steward of the Seat, watcher of the Pass, and General of the Mavrosian artillery will abdicate her power and duties to join you."

[color=f26522]"This is not a decision I made lightly,"[/color] Ada continued. [color=f26522]"If we fail our quests, Mavros or Verrayne will not matter. We must be ready to do what even the gods themselves struggle with. Speaking of..."[/color]

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[center][img]https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/forgottenrealms/images/b/be/Valkur_symbol.jpg/revision/latest/thumbnail-down/width/170/height/270?cb=20070609173556[/img][/center]
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The twilit sky darkened for a moment, and lightning split the sky as thunder rolled across the mountains. In the center of the courtyard appeared an aasimar, or perhaps a true celestial, with wings spread wide. "I speak for Valkur!" a voice boomed across the open space. "You mortals have been gathered for glory in battle and the taste of godhood itself! Enemies of Good are amassing, readying themselves to strike! And you lot, if you're strong enough, will tear them down one by one!"

Ada sighed quietly to herself as if she had heard this speech before. Valkur was a boisterous deity, previously concerning himself mostly with sailors and the seas. It was odd that he had taken it upon himself to be the spokesmen for their quest. The celestial's voice continued, shaking the very foundations of the Keep with its volume. "To the West lies a Ghoul Emperor who is amassing an army of Undead. Unchecked, they will break the Wall and destroy Trenorra before they can mount a defense. To the North, a White Dragon has joined forces with giants, and they soon will march on Mavros. These attacks are imminent, and none of your mortal armies will withstand their concentrated might! But you lot are some of the few who stand a chance. Destroy your foes, and win glory for all!"

Before anyone could ask questions, the lightning struck again, consuming the celestial as thunder peeled from the mountaintops. As quick as he had arrived, the messenger was gone.