PatientBean

The Season of the Enlightened

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_{Lord Ingram Poe
Lord Ingram Poe}

^{“An education is a powerful thing indeed.”}

C H A R A C T E R P O R T R A I T C H A R A C T E R P O R T R A I T _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ C H A R A C T E R I N F O C H A R A C T E R I N F O _________________________________________________________ | Lord Ingram Mattheson Poe | 38 | _________________________________________________________ | Cisgender Man (He/Him) | 5'11 / 168 lbs | _________________________________________________________ | Homosexual | Gentry | C H A R A C T E R N O T E S C H A R A C T E R N O T E S _________________________________________________________ [+] - M I S C E L L A N E O U S ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ ► Character Info Birthday: March 30, 1773 Country of Origin: England Languages Spoken: English, French, and German Affiliation: St. Eustace's School for the Enlightened Motivation: To help aid the Enlightened and have them achieve their dreams Habits: Picks at this thumbnail when deep in thought, Folds pages in books Hobbies: Horseback Riding, Card Games, Sword Practice ► Fears -Enclosed Spaces -Drowning -Snakes ► Skills -Sword Fighting -Enlightened Power Use -Games of Chance -Horseback Riding ► Shortcomings -Firearms -Stealth -Cheating -Acrobatics ► Likes -Carriage Rides -Warm Weather -Exercise -Piano Music -A good book ► Dislikes -Rudeness -Muddy Clothes -His Brother -Religion -The Dark Embers - R U M O R S R U M O R S _________________________________________________________ [+] - S E C R E T S & L I E S ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ ► Rumors Many speculate that Ingram's brother, Percival, was set to inherit the School despite being younger because Ingram tends to "dip into addiction" too much. ► Secrets Ingram got a young lady pregnant when he was in school. Ingram's parents paid off the other family's silence and she was sent off to a different country. Ingram does not know what happened to the child or to the mother. -

E N L I G H T E N E D A B I L I T I E S E N L I G H T E N E D A B I L I T I E S ________________________________________________________________________________________ Enlightened Sense: Lord Ingram has the Enlightened ability to sense other Enlightened people. He is able to sense Enlightened from a great distance, though the farther he senses it the more mental energy is drained. Ingram is able to identify an Enlighteed person before their abilities manifest. Ingram is unable to sense which Enlightened ability a person has. The use of his ability can drain the energy from him to the point of illness and passing out. B A C K S T O R Y B A C K S T O R Y ________________________________________________________________________________________ The eldest son of the Poe family, Ingram had a difficult first period of life, falling ill soon after childbirth. It was expected that he would not live long, but through some divine being or sheer persistence, Ingram persevered and grew healthier. A chunk of his childhood was catching up to what he missed, through education and physical activity. A scrawny kid who got picked on, Ingram eventually grew strong in body and mind and achieved more than his classmates. Early on Ingram discovered his Enlightened abilities when he noticed his father's innate Enlightenment. Ingram knew his father ran a school so when Ingram showed an interest, his father was honest with him. Exploring how Enlightenment works and his expectancy in managing and using his abilities, Ingram trained even harder to be worthy of the title for the school. However, Ingram's younger brother, Percival, also had designs on running the school. The two often fought, both physically and mentally, to the point that the family was nearly split in two. Ingram took a lot of what his brother thought about him to heart, which led him down a dark path. One that Ingram tried his best to hide. Despite all of the struggles, when Ingram's father passed the school was left with him to run. Ingram took the role with gusto, aiming to help other Enlightened find their way in life. Rumblings of resistance and trouble continues to plague Ingram's mind, but above all he works to make the school the best it can be. E X T R A S E X T R A S ________________________________________________________________________________________ Theme Song. Favorite TV show is Bob's Burgers.

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The Season of the Enlightened

The room was filled with a haze as the men sat in a circle around a fire, stoked to a low ember; enough to provide some warmth but not enough to produce light. The men gathered here periodically, usually when one called for a meeting, but today was different. Each of them had sent word they needed to meet, and almost all received the summons at the same time—a rare event.

"What are we to do about this?" one of the gentlemen asked. He was a rotund man, balding from years of stress and worry. He thought of himself as the leader of this merry band of men, the truth being that none of the others respected him enough to invite him out for their other outings, hunts, and so on.

Another man, this one younger than the one who spoke up, with tanned skin the color of caramel, uttered, "We prepare. Gather our resources. This is not the first time, nor should I expect, will it be the last."

The other men grumbled, either agreeing or raising a fuss just to be heard. The first man spoke again, "The Dark Embers have been silent for a while. What's to say this most recent threat is even them? Could it perhaps be someone hoping to stoke the fire of war?"

More agreements were made. A third man, pale with a shock of white hair despite being one of the youngest, raised a point. "Who would do such a thing? For what benefit?"

The first man took the reins of conversation again (perhaps he was the leader). "That school might have a hand in it. I do not trust that Lord Poe. His father was the right sort of man, if you gather my meaning. Truly made that a place of education and learning, with everyone knowing their place. Now they have men and women gathered in the same rooms learning the same things. In my day, women knew their place, even if they were Enlightened. Mark it here, gentlemen, Lord Poe is going to run that school, and by rights our country, into the ground should he be allowed to continue."

The second man guffawed as if the funniest joke had been uttered. "Surely not. Lord Poe values the job far too much to risk. If you want my opinion, it's that circus that appeared on the outskirts of town. It hosts all manner of unsightly agents. The owner operates it with an iron fist, and who could deny that they have the force behind them? Entertainment, ha! Tis a madhouse of horrors there."

The third man shook his head. He kept it hidden that he and his wife had visited the circus time and again. "I disagree. If it is someone, it is that pompous woman, Lady Rosemarie, or whatever name she is using now. She is housing all manner of unsightly specimens in her wings, teaching them how to sneak around and rob. Trading in secrets. Vile beings. If anyone wants to see warfare, it is her!"

The men spoke rapidly, either stating their opinion on one of the mentioned people or factions, or supplying their thoughts. A whistle blew, and everyone fell silent. The man who whistled rested his gloved hands in his lap. he had been silent the entire time. Watching the men argue back and forth. One of his eyes was milky white, with a hint of an iris visible. Most gave him a wide berth.

"It could be one of them. It could be all of them. It could be another organization entirely. I say, it might even be one of you."

The other gentlemen looked around the room at each other, hard to say if it was because the mild accusation was so out there it couldn't be true....or if they realized there was merit.

The milky-eyed man continued. "There is a looming threat here, gentlemen, and instead of sitting around throwing accusations into the wind, we need to bring action. Take matters into our own hands."

The caramel-colored man spoke up this time. "What do you propose then?"

The milky-eyed gripped one hand in his other. He eyed each member intently before he spoke up. "If it is war the Dark Embers want, then gentlemen, it is war they shall have."

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"Be reasonable, Lord Poe."

Sitting across the desk was Humbert Sullivan. He was a stout man with a full head of gray hair and held the position of Lord Poe's right-hand man in matters concerning the school. Humbert held the position with Ingram's father proudly. With the change in authority, Humbert fgured things would be shaken up a bit. He knew Ingram since he was a young boy and watchedh him grow into the man he is today. It didn't mean Humbert supported everything about Ingram, though.

"I am not changing the curriculum at this time, Humbert. The schedule is made, and students have already conducted themselves. If I change it now there would be confusion, not to mention outcry from staff and students alike."

Humbert grumbled a bit, a habit he picked up since Ingram took the position (not without notice). "All I am suggesting is that we go back to more traditional senses for our students. Set them up correctly for when they leave. Surely you recognize that is the goal for this school?"

"My goal for this school is to teach young Enlightened members of our country, as well as beyond, the skills to see them off to wherever it is they wish to go. Times have changed since you were a young lad, Humbert, surely you recognize the need to keep up as time marches on."

"Of course I do, but the fact remains that men and women are vehemently different and have such places in society already established that have served us well for years upon years."

Ingram bit back a retort that the system set up for 'years' had benefited one part of the population and while he was sure some women had enjoyed where they were and what they did he also knew many wanted to do more. Be more. Or at least have the option of a choice.

Ingram also recognized he was probably among the minority in his views, but it was not without experience. Ingram's father, as much as he enjoyed order and status, had a loving relationship with Ingram's mother. The two seemed inseparable. Ingram's father never made his mother feel less than. In truth, Ingram's mother was intelligent beyond her station in life. Had she been presented opportunities in her youth much like Ingram is trying to do now, he was sure she would have held an esteemed position amongst the higher echelons of the country, perhaps a professr or a lawyer or even something in government (though Ingram had made many jests that those in governement surely were not geniuses).

"With all due respect, Humbert, times have changed. Gender constructs aside, being Enlightened has made opportunities that were long ago withheld from people, and I don't see you advocating for going back to when we were hunted or enslaved."

That shut Humbert up, his grumbles dulling to a low murmur now. Ingram sighed. "I appreciate your candor, Humbert, and your wisdom, it served my father well and will serve me well until I pass, but we must recognize that we are in the middle of something grand and I want to be at the forefront of change."

Humbert nodded his understanding. "Of course, Lord Poe. I meant no offense. I shall support you in your endeavours."

Ingram grinned and stood, offering a hand to shake. "Let's continue to make this school the best it can be, then."

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St. Eustice's School was large and grand. Having undergone many changes both internal and external, it served as a reminder of not only the country but the world at large, that the Enlightened served a purpose. The school had many facilities including a fine dining room with three meals a day served, many classrooms, a field outside for practices in combat and exploration, two dormitories (one for lords and one for ladies), a game room, a laboratory for more scientific pursuits, a stable, and many others. Students were allowed to choose their coursework as it suited them. If a gentleman wished to learn music or the art of sewing, he was encouraged. If a lady wanted to learn how to shoot a firearm, she was allowed. Ingram did not believe that the things they learned here needed to have walls built up because of a person's gender or station in life. Students came from all walks and each with their own lived experiences. Ingram and his father, to a degree, believed that life here would challenge views and the status quo.

Classwork had a mix of skills needed for one's average life, as well as Enlightened classwork. History was taught from an Enlightened sense, though they did not shy away from the mistakes made by those in the past. Depending on one's Enlightened abilities, there was also tailored one-on-one work with staff here to help fine-tune their abilities.

While students were not given specific marks in class, the work was pass/fail, and some students earned awards for going above and beyond or demonstrating an understanding far beyond the scope of the coursework. This led to some friendly competition amongst the students and staff alike.

Whispers amongst the patrons of the school spoke of a looming threat. The Dark Embers had not launched an attack anywhere for a while now, but some spoke of a possible attack coming soon. Many were worried, understandably, but some students showed signs of support for the Dark Embers, posing them as a 'necessary evil' to help Enlightened grow into the future.

Lord Ingram Poe often spent most of his time in the headmaster's office. Students were allowed to come see him with questions or concerns, much to Humbert's chagrin. Ingram did not want his position in the school to mean he was above those in his halls. He would sometimes step into a class to listen to the teachers or help students out in the field with sparring.

Every so often, Ingram's Enlightened ability sparked, and he would travel to where he was needed to see if he could enlist a new student. More often than not, he had success, especially as the school was funded by the country, so there was no fee to attend (though donations were always appreciated and those helped a great deal).

Lord Ingram knew others outside of the school were helping in their own way. His mind raced to one such familiar face. A missed opportunity for him, though he was sure Lady Rosemarie didn't see it as such.

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Lady Rosemarie sat in her chair as two young girls stood in front of her, heads bowed in either shame or sincerity. The two of them were brought in front of her because they had been caught by some of the nearby Bow Street Runners for theft. Lady Rosemarie had to buy them off silently, though she could have readily handled such matters without dipping into the coffers.

"Ladies, I must say I am ashamed."

If the two girls ' heads could dip any lower, they would have. So it was shame.

"Really, girls. Have you learned nothing in your time here?" Lady Rosemarie stood up now, walking calmly towards the two wards. She gently placed one hand under their chin to lift their gaze to hers. "You must choose your marks more carefully. Remember your lessons. Reconnosaince. Stealth. Examine your targets and choose the most opportune time to strike. This could have gone even more poorly had you not had each other there, so well done to that end. But as punishment for being caught, you will be given extra chores for two weeks. Now you may go."

The two girls bid their thanks and appreciation, knowing it could have gone worse. They left the room and Lady Rosemarie let out the breath she had been holding. She returned to her chair as the other woman in the room came forward. Mayweather let out a light chuckle as she had heard everything. "You let those off lightly missus. I cannae say I blame ya, but I woulda strattled them both, you can be sure." A hint of an Irish accent played amongst Mayweather's lips. The two of them had known each other a fair while. Mayweather was an invaluable teacher and staff member here at the Haven. Many of the girl's came to identify Mayweather as a mother figure, one that many of the charges needed desperately. Lady Rosemarie did not know the woman's true name and Mayweather was not about to give it out freely. The woman stood tall in front of her despite her being so short. Long, red hair flowed in fancy curls out of the cap she wore and her dress was a dark, almost emerald green color. Despite this, Lady Rosemarie knew Mayweather could easily blend amongst the shadows. It was her Enlightened ability to manipulate the shadows around her. Lady Rosemarie came to rely on her greatly.

"I could have, but one must recognize when to lead with kindness or fear. I daresay they shall not make the same mistake twice." Both women recognized what remained unsaid. 'If they are caught next time, they won't be so lucky. '

"Aye missus, I gather that."

"But you aren't here to critique or praise my teaching styles. You have information?"

Mayweather nodded. "Aye missus. Rumblings in the shadows I don't have to tell ya. There is word of an attack coming. No one knows where or when, I fear, but cross my heart missus I will keep on it."

Lady Rosemarie sighed inwardly, leaning back in her chair. She was afraid of this. She had been relaxed. Too relaxed. This would mean her charges needed to be equipped more quickly than she wanted. "Thank you Mayweather. Please send word to our wards that there is to be a meeting tomorrow in morning before classes begin. Urge the importance of attendance."

Mayweather gave a light curtsy as she turned to leave, the shadows following her out the door. Lady Rosemarie closed her eyes, deep in thought. She may have to reach out to some of her allies. She needed to be ready.

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Lady Rosemarie's Haven for Wayward Girls was a hidden undergrove. No one knew where it was, and Lady Rosemarie prided herself on keeping it well-hidden. There were rumors, of course, that it lay underneath Lady Rosemarie's own home or that it was a secret underground that ran the entire country. The entrance the wards knew of was not its true entrance, and there were still many secret doors and avenues.

The Haven took in mostly young women who needed a place, though there were some young boys there as well. Each had a room they shared with four others, and they were expected to keep it clean and tidy. There were daily chores expected amongst their lessons, but they had a roof over their heads and food every day so there wasn't much complaint. There were some who felt the rules did not apply to them, and they were swiftly punished. Violence was not accepted in the halls of the Haven, though most of the wards knew there were back-alley fights that took place if they needed to get some excess energy out.

The staff at the Haven ranged in skill. The men and women who taught the charges armed them with knowledge that was more often than not undesirable in society. How to pick locks. How to remain unseen. How to pickpocket. Lady Rosemarie understood the need to do what needed to be done to survive. Some of the charges were Enlightened, but many were not. She did not differentiate between the two as they all had a place in her home. Those with Enlightened abilities were aided and taught as best they could, but even Lady Rosemarie had to admit the damned school had better opportunities for them. Still, she would never admit such out loud. Lord Ingram Poe was a tentative ally in some respects, despite Lady Rosemarie harboring a small grudge.

The charges were allowed to leave during free periods or, if they were given special permission, sometimes it was to visit someone they cared about or to complete a job requested of them. They were expected to be back in time for their classwork or by lights out, unless they sent word they would be late because something unexpected happened.

Many speculated how Lady Rosemarie could afford all of this. Some say she stole what she needed, while others say she was secret nobility, possibly a descendant of the King or Queen. Lady Rosemarie never let much of herself be known. She was a figurehead, respected and feared in equal measure.

Word spread that a circus had arrived a few days prior. Many of the charges wished to go see what it was, but knew they would not be allowed. Was it because it was tempting, or was something more dangerous afoot?

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The circus had arrived in England a week ago, having traveled from France. The staff was a force in getting things set up quickly. Booths were drawn up, caravans parked, animals fed and tamed, and put where they needed to be. Truly, it was an act in and of itself to see the circus finalized. Many of the members knew their place and what they needed to do every time they settled.

A tall figure stepped into view of everything. Big Bulma stood nearly 8 feet off the ground, well-toned and muscled. She had short-cropped brown hair, and her dress was fashioned together for her from leftover materials. She did not complain. Despite her size and clear imposing nature, Big Bulma was one of the kindest souls you ever ran across. A hard history for her due to her size, a side-effect of her Enlightened ability, made her a pariah in society.

It was when she was in her late adolescence that she came across Mr. Maleficar. The man had invited her into the chaos and camaraderie of the circus he had long established, and it was there she found her home. Big Bulma worked her way up, starting off as part of the late show and eventually being a huge part of the program's set-up. Many came to her with worries, fears, or just to have a comforting word from someone who has been there, done that.

Mr. Maleficar was the mysterious figure who ran things. Many did not know much about him. They knew his Enlightened ability, the reason he carried a metal cane with him despite not needing it to walk, but most of what was told was speculation. He got things done, ensured they had an audience everywhere they went.

This time, though, there was word their stay here would be their longest yet. Many wondered why: was it because they were not welcomed anywhere else for the time being? Was there more profit to be made here? Or was the rumbling of a future attack the reason?

Performances were hosted nearly daily, with some time for rest given. The hours could be borderline cruel, but a lot of the performers and staff knew that if they did not have the circus, they would be on the streets or worse. Society did not look favorably on them, though they came in droves to see them perform. 'Look at the crazy cast of characters! Aren't we lucky they don't live amongst us and we can point and laugh to our heart's content!'

In spite of this, the circus staff was a family. They looked out for each other, helped each other, and ensured they were all safe and cared for. Big Bulma took a large chunk of that role and made sure every day she set a little time aside to speak to anyone who wanted before she got back to work.

They had a huge performance later that night and many were running around, eager to get things ready.

The Season of the Enlightened

🎵Theme Song🎵

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Dearest Sir or Madam,

It has come to our attention that your child possesses what we have come to call 'Enlightenment'. That is to say your child now possesses strange and bizarre abilities that which cannot be fully explained. How we have come to know this information matters not, but do not fear. Your child is one of many with such abilities. We are sure you have questions and we are happy to answer these and more in an upcoming visit at your homestead. We ask that you do not let your child know of this visit purely to ensure we prevent any mishaps or misinformation spread.

Suffice to say, this can be a challenging time for parents such as yourself. It is difficult enough to raise a child with good morals and judgment in this time, but we at St. Eustice's School For the Enlightened believe it can be done without fear or concern. Since our school opened we have trained many young lords and ladies in the fine art of Enlightenment as well as many other avenues of study. The students are taught such lessons as finances, mathematics, social decorum, and how to best find your place amongst society with one's unique abilities. We have dedicated programs for both the young men and young women who join us and rest assured, we ensure both receive proper training for their futures.

To prepare for our upcoming visit, we would appreciate if you could have your child ready and dressed appropriately and fashionably for our arrival. While tuition to our school is free, a reasonable donation is always appreciated to ensure your child amongst the many others are provided for. If you are to have any questions, please feel free to ask. If all is agreed upon, we can set the schedule for your child to begin attendance immediately. If you are unsure, we hope we can appease your mind. Rest assured, this is, and always will be, your choice.

Kindly and Respectfully,

Lord Ingram Poe

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Greetings and Salutations Enlightened!

Welcome to the official start of the RP! Please read the rules to ensure you understand what is expected. Please post your characters in the OOC first and please do so with a Hider. Once you are approved, you may move your Character over to the Character tab without the hider, if you want.

I worked a CS code out, but if you want to make your own pretty CS you can do so provided you include everything in the initial code.

Here is the link to the Discord Server. Please join if you wish. I will try to maintain communication in the OOC as well as the Discord.

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Historical Events

• 1776: The United States signs the Declaration of Independence and is now free from Great Britain
• 1789: George III, suffering from mental illness, is deemed unfit, leading Parliament to introduce the Regency Bill, but George III overcomes his illness. Rumors abound that his episodes are side effects of being Enlightened
• 1793: Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette are executed in France. This would cause instability and would be called the Reign of Terror.
• 1796: Princess Charlotte is born to the Prince and Princess of Wales.
• 1800: Napoleon invades Italy
• 1801: The Act of Union helps to create the United Kingdom, thus uniting Great Britain, Ireland, and Scotland
• 1802: The Napoleonic Wars have ended with the Treaty of Amiens, securing peace between Great Britain, France, Spain, and the Batavian Republic
• 1804: Napoleon crowns himself the Emperor of France
• 1807: Parliament passes the Slave Trade Act. This ends slave trade in Great Britain but does not abolis slavery
• 1808: Napoleon invades Spain
• 1809: Spencer Perceval is elected Prime Minister. The Duke of York is invovled in a scandal with Mary Anne Clarke
• 1811: The Regency Bill is passed allowing the Prince of Wales to be the Prince Reagent due to King George III's mental illness. This marks the unofficial start of the Regency Period

Important Hisorical Figures

• King George III
• Princess Charlotte
• Spencer Perceval
• Napoleon
• Jane Austen
• Jane Porter
• The Bow Street Runners
• Ludqwig van Beethoven
• Frances 'Fanny' Burney

The Regency Period and the LGBTQIA+ Community

As we know, the LGBTQIA+ community has been around forever. During the Regency Period in Britain, homosexuality was frowned upon and could often lead to arrest and even a death sentence. Transgender people also existed, though they frequently remained in hiding. Cross-dressing was prominent for those who did not adhere to the gender binary, and some individuals considered themselves non-binary. Unfortunately, documentation of this was limited, though there are historical pieces and observations that hint towards the existence of the LGBTQIA+ community in this period.

Important Resources for the RP

• What The Regency Period Was Really Like
• Women's Fashion
• Men's Fashion
• Primer for Regency Social Classes
• Technology and the Regency Period

Notable Places

St. Eustice's School for the Enlightened: Opened in the 1500s, St. Eustice's School for the Enlightened is an institution dedicated to helping those with Enlightened abilities better manage them as they enter society. Generally, the age range for attendees starts as young as 12 and goes up to as late as 30, though there are notable exceptions when needed. Both men and women are encouraged to attend, though the classwork differs. Once it is proven that the student has accomplished their coursework and has met the criteria, they are introduced back into society during the school's "Enlightenment Soiree".

Mr. Maleficar's Traveling Circus: An assortment of acts run together by Mr. Maleficar. Typically those in the circus are Enlightened members who have rejected society for one reason or another or those with Enlightened abilities that have altered them so that society rejects them first. Despite the kind nature presented, there is a dark underbelly with secrets screaming to get out.

Lady Rosemarie's Haven For Wayward Girls: A group home/school for girls of any age who have demonstrated Enlightened abilities but, for one reason or another, have not attended St. Eustace's. These are typically girls on the run from their families or from the law who need a place to stay and a space to learn how to manage their abilities. The place itself is hidden away and very few know its exact location. Rumors abound as to what exactly is taught there.

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Notable Figures

Lord Ingram Poe: The director and head of St. Eustice's School for the Enlightened. He takes his job seriously and with pride. He is Enlightened with the ability to sense when someone else, whether they have awakened or not, is Enlightened and pinpoint where other Enlightened individuals are. He is a wealthy man and is experienced in armed combat. He does not have a wife which leads many to speculate about him. Are his intentions noble or is there more under the surface?

Mr. Maleficar: No one knows his real name but many know him as Mr. Maleficar, the ring leader of his traveling circus. He is Enlightened and opts to travel rather than be amongst his peers. He can manipulate and move metal and always carries a metal cane that he can shape at will. Despite his kind presence during shows, there is more to him than meets the eye. Rumors speculate abuse amongst his crew, though no one says anything for long.

Lady Imogene Rosemarie: The headmistress of Lady Rosemarie's Haven For Wayward Girls. Despite initial appearance, Lady Rosemarie was not born into wealth, instead making it on her own after her Enlightened abilities manifested and she denied entry into St. Eustace's school. Her Enlightened abilities allow her to blend in by shifting her image to fit her needs. Lady Rosemarie ensures the wards in her care are treated fairly and are taught useful skills. But what exactly does Lady Rosemarie consider useful?

The Dark Embers: An organization filled with Enlightened members whose goal it is to see Enlightened have power and control world events. While many call this organization terrorists and villains, many also see them as heroes and a necessary evil. Members are often called after as no one knows where they inhabit with many speculating they travel. Disastrous events are often labeled as Dark Ember attacks, but is it true they are as dangerous as many claim?

Countess Horatia Pomperfith: A wealthy Countess known for her huge parties and having been married three times with each husband passing away. A huge gossipmonger who puts out a monthly newsletter detailing the goings-on in England. Many claim she kills her husbands, but she'll never tell. Is she a worthy ally or a terrible foe?

Moses Wendell: A man who made a name for himself in England's war efforts, earning him a title and land. Many speculate him to be amongst the hierarchy of the Dark Embers, though part of this may be due to his background and race. He is enlightened with the ability to manipulate his density; becoming durable and strong. Does he have his country's best interests at heart or is there a darkness lurking under that smile?

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How Rolls Will Work

I will leave it up to the group to decide if they would like to use a dice roller in the Discord Server or use the handy roller here on the Guild, but for use of skills in your posts I will ask that you roll for them. General things will not need a roll but for things that require a use of a certain skill or even your power you will need a roll.

Skills that you are proficient in will get a boost while skills you are not so good at will get a setback. There are 5 levels of skill

• Easy - Only the lowest of the low could fail this. Only needs to beat a 4
• Intermediate - Requires some knowledge, but could be done by anyone. Needs to beat an 8
• Hard - Requires practice and some know-how. Needs to beat a 12
• Difficult - A savant could do this with years of practice. Need to beat a 16
• Impossible - The very rare few could even hope to accomplish this. Risk at your own peril. Need to beat a 20

Like regular DnD, if you roll a 20 you get a Super Success and your roll will be rewarded with something extra. Perhaps you will learn a new skill? Or maybe you find something useful and get to keep it? And if you roll a 1 you get a Super Failure and will be punished accordingly (no worry about character death unless it was discussed and agreed upon, but something bad will happen).

Remember, failure is not always a bad thing. You never know what you will get if you try something.

You do not need rolls in all of your posts. If you need a roll, please let me know and, with the result, I will tell you privately what happens so you can add it in your post. I want ths to be fun for everyone so this may be tweaked as we progress.

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Rules For The RP

General Rules

1: Posting will be done at least once per 10 days. If you wish to post more than once in that time period, you are welcome to do so, but keep in mind others who may need more time to get something up. We do not want to progress so far that we leave others behind

-If you find you are unable to post in that time period, I ask that you let me know. Real life gets in the way and it is understandable

-If you intend to collab on a post, I ask that you try to get collabs done within the 10 day span. If it is going to take longer, perhaps consider making it a Part 1 and Part 2 deal. If that cannot happen, please communicate with me.

2: Be respectful to others. If you find you are having issues with someone else in the RP, I ask that you resolve them in private.
3: This RP will be set in the 1800s during the Regency period. As such, historical issues will come up. Certain groups of people were not treated kindly during this era. Sexism, racism, homophobia, transphobia, etc. are all things that are expected. If you intend to use any of these issues in a post, I ask that you please offer a Trigger Warning. If you find you cannot handle these in the RP setting, I suggest finding a different RP. None of these will be tolerated in the OOC or on Discord.
4: Romance can and will happen but I draw the line at explicit scenes. This is a rule for this RP and well as the Guild overall. If you would like to write out a scene, I ask that you do so in the comfort of a private message. Any scene should fade-to-black before it gets that far.

-This RP is for adults so all players are 18 years old or older. Characters will also be 18 years old or over. If you intend to use a child in the RP as a support please keep in mind the nature of the RP.

5: You are limited to two characters at the start of the RP and they must be from different Affiliations so that there is a balance. After the RP has been going for a bit I may open it up to adding new characters.

-No character can be a part of the Dark Embers at the start of the RP, but who knows what may happen later.

6: Character death can happen, though this will always be communicated with the individual. If your character dies in the RP you are allowed to create a new character.
7: This is a game full of secrets and changing loyalties. I ask that you please not spoil anything in the OOC or Discord so others may enjoy the mystery.
8: Combat will happen. If your characters are in combat, whether between player characters or with NPCs, I expect you to respect each other and determine how it plays out. Your character will win fights. Your character will lose fights. It is just as fun to lose as it is to win.
9: Everyone will have their moments to shine in this RP. If you have a story idea, please share it with me to see how we can incorporate it into the overall plot. I want this to be a collaboration of everyone creating something fun and meaningful.
10: Please add your favorite TV Show or Movie in the Extra's section of the CS to show you have read these rules.

Character Creation Rules
1: When making your character, please use realistic images; either actual photos or realistic art depictions. Do NOT use A.I. If you need help with faceclaimes, here is a link to a FC Directory that I like to use: FC Directory
2: Please ensure each character is part of a different faction: either St. Eustace's School for the Enlightened, Mr. Maleficar's Traveling Circus, Lady Rosemaries's Haven For Wayward Girls, or Independent. Independents are free of the constraints of each of these factions but are outliers with some specific story points. You will still be given story aids and prompts and I welcome collaboration with myself. No one can be a member of the Dark Embers at the start of the RP.

- For those choosing to be a part of the circus, your power must be something that alters your appearance or makes you considerably dangerous or something society would reject. For realistic images of this, feel free to still use photos and we can all use our imagination to alter the appearance.

- For Lady Rosemarie's Haven, while they primarily accept girls in their ranks, there are a few boys and men helping out. Trans girls are considered girls in the school and are also welcomed.

3: Every character must be 18 years of age or older. This is an adult RP and will have adult themes.
4: For Enlightened abilities, I am limiting powers to 1 Major and 1 Minor power. For example, Lord Ingram Poe has the Enlightened ability to detect other Enlightened people, whether they have awakened to their power or not (think Prof. Xavier and Cerebro). This would be considered a Major Power. Something like a Danger Sense could be argued to be a minor power. I am open to discussing powers with players.

- Each power will have a weakness associated to it to help balance. This goes for my own characters as well. Perhaps they are weak to certain elements given their own powers? Perhaps the use of the power drains their energy? Maybe they need to injure themselves to use the power? Please make this fit with your chosen powers

5: Once your character is approved you may post them in the Character Tab. If you need to edit your sheet for whatever reason please ask me first before dong so

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CS Code

[hr.][color=??????][CENTER][sup][h1][center][img]Can add image here if you want, otherwise feel free to delete[/img][/center][b][center]
[sub][color=black]Character Name[/color]
[color=??????]Character Name[/color][/sub][/center]
[/b][/h1][/sup]
[color=??????][sup][i]“Insert character quote here”[/i][/sup][/color][/CENTER] [table][row][/row][row][cell][center][sub][sup][sub][h3][b][color=black] C H A R A C T E R P O R T R A I T[/color]
[color=??????]C H A R A C T E R P O R T R A I T[/color] [/b][/h3][/sub][/sup][/sub][sup]_________________________________________________________[/sup][img]Insert character photo here (Please use real or realistic images)[/img]
[sup]_________________________________________________________[/sup][sub][sup][sub][h3][b][color=black] C H A R A C T E R I N F O[/color]
[color=??????]C H A R A C T E R I N F O[/color][/b][/h3][/sub][/sup][/sub][sup]_________________________________________________________[/sup]
[sub][b]|[/b] [color=??????]Full Name[/COLOR] [b]|[/b] [color=??????]Age[/COLOR] [b]|[/b]
[sup]_________________________________________________________[/sup]
[b]|[/b] [color=??????]Gender Identity (Please include pronouns)[/COLOR] [b]|[/b] [color=??????]Height/Weight[/COLOR] [b]|[/b]
[sup]_________________________________________________________[/sup]
[b]|[/b] [color=??????]Sexuality[/COLOR] [b]|[/b] [color=??????]Social Class[/COLOR] [b]|[/b][/sub][/center]
[indent][sub][sup][sub][h3][b][color=black] C H A R A C T E R N O T E S[/color]
[color=??????]C H A R A C T E R N O T E S[/color][/b][/h3][/sub][/sup][/sub][/INDENT][sup]_________________________________________________________[/sup]
[INDENT][hider=][color=#2e2c2c]-[/color]
[indent][sub][b][color=??????] M I S C E L L A N E O U S[/color][/b][/sub]
[sup]▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔
[color=white][color=??????][b]►[/b] [b]Character Info[/b][/color]
[color=??????]Birthday:[/color] The RP starts in October of 1811
[color=??????]Country of Origin:[/color]
[color=??????]Languages Spoken:[/color] What languages can they speak/read/understand? Please keep it realistic
[color=??????]Affiliation:[/color] Are they part of St. Eustice's School? The Circus? The Haven? Or are they a free agent?
[color=??????]Motivation:[/color] What motivates your character? What do they ultimately want?
[color=??????]Habits:[/color] Provide at least two habits your character engages in
[color=??????]Hobbies:[/color] What are some of your character's hobbies? What do they like to do for fun? (Keep in mind the time the RP is set in)

[color=??????][b]►[/b] [b]Fears[/b][/color]
At least three fears for your character. These can and will be used against you :)

[color=??????][b]►[/b] [b]Skills[/b][/color]
At least four skills your character is good at. Please keep it realistic with who your character is. These skills will give you a boost to rolls

[color=??????][b]►[/b] [b]Shortcomings[/b][/color]
At least four skills your character is terrible at. Please keep it realistic with who your character is. These skills will be given a drawback if attempted in a roll

[color=??????][b]►[/b] [b]Likes[/b][/color]
At least five things your character likes

[color=??????][b]►[/b] [b]Dislikes[/b][/color]
At least five things your character dislikes

[/color][/sup]
[color=#2e2c2c]-[/color][/indent][/hider][/INDENT][indent][sub][sup][sub][h3][b][color=black] R U M O R S[/color]
[color=??????]R U M O R S[/color][/b][/h3][/sub][/sup][/sub][/INDENT][sup]_________________________________________________________[/sup]
[INDENT][hider=][color=#2e2c2c]-[/color]
[indent][sub][b][color=??????] S E C R E T S & L I E S[/color][/b][/sub]
[sup]▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔
[color=white][color=D8BFD8][b]►[/b] [b]Rumors[/b][/color]
As Lady Pomperfith says, 'the best rumors are tinged with a bit of truth'. What are some rumors going around about your character? (Please have at least one juicy morsel)

[color=D8BFD8][b]►[/b] [b]Secrets[/b][/color]
What is a secret you don't want anyone to know? Could be something a few select know but have been sworn to secrecy or something you keep very close to your chest. (At least 1 dirty secret please)
[/color][/sup]
[color=#2e2c2c]-[/color][/indent][/hider][/INDENT][/cell][cell][INDENT][sub][sup][sub][h3][b][color=black] E N L I G H T E N E D A B I L I T I E S[/color]
[color=??????]E N L I G H T E N E D A B I L I T I E S[/color][/b][/h3][/sub][/sup][/sub][/INDENT][sup]________________________________________________________________________________________[/sup]
[COLOR=white][indent]
What are your character's Enlightened abilities? Remember, you are allowed one major and one minor power. Please no god-like abilities, insta-kill abilities, or anything that could break the universe. Please include what your character can do as well as what weaknesses and limitations they have.

[/indent][/COLOR]
[INDENT][sub][sup][sub][h3][b][color=black] B A C K S T O R Y[/color]
[color=??????]B A C K S T O R Y[/color][/b][/h3][/sub][/sup][/sub][/INDENT][sup]________________________________________________________________________________________[/sup]
[COLOR=white][INDENT]
What has your character gone through? Please be as detailed as you would like. Have at least two paragraphs worth of info, but feel free to leave some things out that you want explored as the RP goes on.

[/indent][/color]
[INDENT][sub][sup][sub][h3][b][color=black] E X T R A S[/color]
[color=??????]E X T R A S[/color][/b][/h3][/sub][/sup][/sub][/INDENT][sup]________________________________________________________________________________________[/sup]
[COLOR=white][INDENT]
Anything else you want to add? Theme Song? Plot Ideas? Supporting Cast? There is definitely something to add here.

[/INDENT][/COLOR][/cell][/row][/table][hr.][/COLOR]

The Season of the Enlightened

@sailor venus You most certainly can

The Season of the Enlightened

@Kirah@Blizz@Pirouette@Mjolnir@Lunari@BunniesOfDoom@Theyra@eugalB@NoriWasHere@Memoria@CollectorOfMyst

Hope I got everyone but here is the Discord server! As I said I am still working on it, but I figured this makes it easier to ask me questions.

discord.gg/7XrPG624

The Season of the Enlightened

Suppose I should ask: would people like to join the Discord server for discussion and character ideas while I get everything set up? I am still fine-tuning it, but it might be helpful.

The Season of the Enlightened

As I said, I am beyond thrilled for the interest. My aim is to have the OOC up and ready sometime next week. I am taking a day tomorrow to rest and relax before I have to get back into the hustle and bustle (plus it is SO hot)

If anyone has any questions in the meantime, please let me know. I am excited to start this with you all <3

The Season of the Enlightened

@Blizz I like all these ideas and trust you to pick the ones that work best.

The Season of the Enlightened

@Pirouette I like both actually. I am still working out how powers will go and am leaning towards people having one major power and one minor power, if they want. So the time thing or sanguine manipulation would work and I may just ask for them to have those powers only for balance. Plus there will be weaknesses to the powers (we can't all be amazing badasses all the time.

The Season of the Enlightened

@Pirouette For real! I was trying to find an FC for a character and it was nothing but AI all the way down. I enjoyed it at first, admittedly, but now it's getting irritating.