OOC Minecraft Username: chili_dogger Are you at least 18 years old?: Yes. Have you read the rules? (Link): Yes.(Optional) How did you hear about Avalore?: Through Chocoobo, JollyHoefticus, and neji101!(Max. 1) Were you referred by someone? If so, please provide their in-game username: See above. (Optional) Introduce yourself if you’d like, as well as any creations you want to share (e.g. art, builds, skins): Hello! I'm Dogger (Zed also works). Not new to roleplaying, but I am to doing so on Minecraft. I've done everything from TTRPG, to City of Heroes, to FFXIV and any other game I can do a little goofy story in. — 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?) Desmond drew in a breath, but before he could release it either as a sigh or as a yawn, the wagon lurched. He spat out a curse as his tongue found itself caught between his teeth. A calloused palm ran across his jaw as he spared a glance to the older woman, giving her a look that was halfway to a grin.  "Nervous enough to keep my hands busy an' my mouth movin'!" Even if he had nothing to occupy the former and the latter had an aching pain. The plains stretched on and on, all grass and sky. He squinted at them as he flicked his arm, the knotted cord on his wrist twisting against his skin. "I grew up where the fog and the mist did you the courtesy of hidin' what's ahead. Teaches you early not to panic just 'cause you can't see the next stretch of water." But now he could see farther than he ever could.  He continued, a little softer. "So when it was time, I took my rite like we all do. Built a boat, sailed out from the Isles to learn somethin' worth bringin' back." Desmond's mouth twitched as he glanced back to the Reach. "Turns out I'm better leavin' than stayin'." Everyone heard about the Spire. He was no exception. "A place like that doesn't care who you are, as long as you're useful. And I know sailing, fishing, and when to stop talking. Turns out that'll earn you a Crown or two." The Mistan allowed himself to recline, fingers interlocking as he supported his head. "Maybe a bit of work around the Spire, maybe somethin' worthwhile in the Undercity." A crooked grin found his lips once again as he flashed a wink to the woman. "Reach hasn't quite made up its mind on what it wants to be yet. Figured I'd get in before it does, aye?" A beat, then a laugh. "Worst case, I do what I always do and move on. Best case?" He lifted a shoulder. "Eh, maybe I stay." — Character Name: Desmond Ordes Character Race: Human (Mistan) Character Age: 23-Years-Old  Brief Physical Description: Standing a bit under average height (and a little underweight), Desmond is no less athletic as one might be when walking wet planks and shifting ground. His dark brown hair is almost always unkempt. He dresses in layered, practical clothing: sturdy leather boots built for travel over fashion, a well-worn vest over loose shirt sleeves. Scuffed gear and calloused hands identify him as a laborer, while a glint in his eye hints at a man who looks for a quick out.       (Sorry, I don't know why the images decided to go all wonky...)       Image of Skin and Figura Model: