OOC Minecraft Username: ContestedSnow Are you at least 18 years old?: Yes. Have you read the rules? (Link): Yes.(Optional) How did you hear about Avalore?: Recommendation.(Max. 1) Were you referred by someone? If so, please provide their in-game username:  Empaul. — In-Character Read the following prompt: The rhythmic lull of hoofbeats are a marching drum to the small group of pioneers and variety of folk you have found yourself amongst, packed into a wobbling wagon. The rolling plains of the Southern Reach and a clear sky stretch out all around you, the buzz of excited chatter a dull wash in your ears as your mind strays to your former life and what has led you here to new lands. “Nervous?” You blink, returning to the present moment. A kindly older woman sat near you is smiling warmly with a crinkle to her eyes. “I can tell it’s your first time. Still remember mine,” she flashes a grin and leans in. “Tell me my dear, why have you come to the Reach?” How do you respond (in character)? (250 word minimum - please make sure to include at least three references to our lore in your response, with two coming from different pages in the Compendium.  Two of the three selected should also be in-depth, avoid simply name-dropping lore terms. Tie the terms into your character's backstory. Why are they important to them?)   Philippe raised a hand up to rub at his cheek, perhaps still leery of conversation after a long ride past the Wall; it had been an endeavour crossing over, and all the cajoling had worn on him a little it seemed. "Hah, do I really still look that green about the ears? I thought I had put on a few years, good lady, but I suppose you've knowing eyes." He grinned after a moment's thought, and leant forward himself where he sat.  "It is my first time over the Wall, or this far south in general. Perhaps I am... well, looking to reinvent myself. To pay back the world, for the many good favours I've received in the past. If... Well, I suppose that if I've come a long distance to do it. From the heart of the Realm, all the way north to the bloodshed in the old kingdoms, and..." He considered, before the Valkian tilted his head thoughtfully to the older woman. "Well, sometimes these journeys do not seem that long until you have taken the first few steps, and then you've gone too far to stop. You know what I mean, I'm sure. I hail from the Midlands -- Mariza, or a smaller borough on the outer limits, at least. You must know the great city, where all the trade of the world meets and joins hands, and all rejoice." He seemed to find great mirth in those last words, clearly in playful mock-reverence. "Where are you from, yourself?" His grin had since settled into a warm smile, but he could not help a hand settling beneath his swathing crimson cape to grasp something; a token of his past services, or a reminder of his duties to the Realm. He rolled it between his fingers idly, as he settled into the ride and learned of the elder's story in turn. He would take his turn walking alongside the caravan in time, given he had volunteered to do so some time ago, and he was becoming restless. — Character Name:  Philippe of Mariza Character Race: Valkian Human Character Age: 33 Brief Physical Description: Philippe stands at a relatively average height of 5'11, with broad shoulders and considerate muscle mass to suit a seemingly active lifestyle. The Valkian's hair is a dark jet, though flecked all throughout with white, and faintly wavey locks frame his face and come down to just barely touch his shoulders. His skin is a light olive, his eyes a deep piercing blue, his cheeks adorned with a smattering of freckles. Upon his face ordinarily rests a warm smile, partially masked by a well-kept beard, and despite a few frownlines upon his brow and a visible scar stretching off just beneath the right eye, he exudes a general warmth of character.