[IC/OOC] The Hourglass Summit

[Epine de Rose]

Le Banner here!


"Rumour has it that there exists a herd upon the mountain peaks - impenetrable and secretive. They elect to remain hidden and undisturbed by the outside world. Yet in times of great need, or when balance is severely impaired, it is said that they descend from above the clouds to display their true strength."

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The Hourglass Summit was previously made up of two very large family herds, however as time drew on, more families found sanctuary under the watchful gaze of the existing herd. Now, in the present day, the Hourglass Summit consists of multiple herds in one large collective, united under one banner. They speak with one voice and move with one voice when times call for it, yet any other time they are left very much to their own devices...

Here, under the protective embrace of the mighty Summit, those who have no ill will and seek only peace, are permitted to thrive.


Introduction | Location | Summit Geography | Metaplot Impacts | Herd Members | Alliances | Traditions | Social Structure | Joining

 

[Epine de Rose]

[-Summit Location-]

"Many years ago, the mountains that make up the Hourglass Summit's home were discovered and consequently claimed by the Angeni of Time. While he had never had any intentions of founding a herd, he recognised these slopes as something worthy of respect. Virtually impenetrable, with an array of caves, deadly precipices and unsteady ground, it was easy to defend, isolated and more importantly forgotten. Nevertheless, while he had sought this region for it's tranquil and isolated nature, a place for him to enter an eternal slumber... the fates had another idea.

Over many generations those upon the Summit began to grow, with new families appearing after recognising the advantages of these mountains themselves... And so, over time the Summit, which had once been a single peak, expanded to encompass the entire range."

Important OOC Information:
1. The Summit's main bases exist on the lower peaks, the highest peaks are reserved for ceremonies and meetings.
2. The Summit is considered heavily defended by scouts and guards, if you would like a family member to be attacked, please be mindful of this!
3. The Summit is considered "impenetrable", further details will be provided below.
4. The Summit has four main access points, further details will be provided below.

Important IC Information:
1. Generally speaking all Summit members descend from the valley pathways rather than the desert pathways.
2. The Summit guards/scouts are curious by nature but not hostile, you are free to have strangers enter the territory to RP, you might receive a 'flyby' but they won't bother your characters.
3. The only alliance that the Summit have is with the Vitterfolk and Willowglen herds, though they would combine forces with other herds if deemed necessary.

Introduction | Location | Summit Geography | Metaplot Impacts | Herd Members | Alliances | Traditions | Social Structure | Joining

 

[Epine de Rose]

[-SUMMIT GEOGRAPHY-]

"These slopes were blessed by the spirits, they exhibit the qualities of a beast - unforgiving and brutal to those who threaten it, but fiercely protective of those it adores. They are impenetrable and deadly, only welcoming those who have given their thanks for generations - those who seek to harm will only find agony and death."



The soquili that live on the Summit live scattered throughout the slopes, each close to at least one point of note. They have free reign to choose where they live and some may even be in constant motion. However there are some things upon the summit that are unchanging and ever present - these are noted below.

Further descriptions of generic and common geographical items are listed after these key locations, including caves and so on.

Key Locations:
1. The Summit
The Summit is where major events occur, often when matters of great importance are discussed. Due to its high altitude, it is considered the most private place to hold these discussions. Crowning events, matters of defence and so forth are discussed here; otherwise the summit is rarely in use. When it is not in use by the herd, it stands over them as a constant presence and an example of the Hourglass Summit's strength.

Cyn Generis, the Angeni of Time, is allegedly slept within one of the caves at the Summit, though none have worked out which it might be!

2. Northern Crater
The Northern Crater is considered the headquarters of all combat training on the Summit. It is here that the young colts are brought to learn from the masters in the art of flight, endurance and so on. As they age and graduate to higher levels, they begin to learn how each of these qualities can be used within combat. The crater is the perfect place for perspective or aspiring warriors to go in order to see the best of the best pit themselves against each other in sparring matches.

3. The O-da-lv Pass:
The O-da-lv Pass is the only way in which to access the summit on the occasions that the herd leaders decide to collectively shut the Valley 'gates'. One must journey through this pass and through the desert to reach the Desert Arch, and it is only from there that they can enter. This is one of the most heavily fortified and watched areas of the summit.

4. The Valley Gates:
There are three valley gates that lead to the summit, deemed the only passable and safe ways to ascend this unforgiving mountain. These gates are often left open so that family, friends and explorers alike can enjoy the splendour of the slopes. However, in times of strife or war, the soquili of the summit have found ways to make these impassable. They can and will shut these 'gates' by rendering these pathways too dangerous to wander through.

These gates are well watched in case of hostile forces.

5. The Desert Arch:
The Desert Arch is the most difficult gate to access and the only one accessible during times of conflict, war or strife. It can be reached by journeying through the desert and once you have entered this massive, stone arch, a very well hidden trail can be walked to reach the Summit. As this arch borders upon one of the more deadly families, it is considered wise to find a way to offer them a warning of an approach.

This region is the only region which will accept refugees of any sort during war due to its hidden nature. Refugees entering from here will ensure they can't be seen and don't reveal the heart of the herd to enemies.

6. The Overlook
The Overlook, or rather the multiple series of overlooks, are cliffs that lean out into the valleys and enable anyone on top of them to look out on what lies below. These regions are often used by scouts or guards, but that isn't to say young couples or sight seers haven't used them either.

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Generic Make-Up
The slopes are compromised of a very complex network of caves that can only be navigated well by those who have lived on the Summit for generations. Some of these cave networks and labyrinth can lead to deadly drops, while others can lead to hidden pools, springs and waterfalls of great beauty. These caves are also used by the vast majority of the herd to protect themselves during the worst weather.

The slopes are also in possession of a wide array of forests, though not 'lush' like the valleys, these evergreen trees provide warmth, sustenance and materials for trade.

The slopes also possess some of the freshest and cleanest water, given that when the rain falls, it often drains through the streams upon the peaks.

There are rumours of a hidden hot-spring, but those who have found it tend to remain tight-lipped about it's location!.

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Summit Defences
As discussed before the Summit is regarded as 'impenetrable' due to the complex geography that exists upon the slopes. For anyone who wishes to make use of these defences and RP them, please see below for specific details:

1. Cave Networks
These cave networks are labyrinths, only those from multiple generations can navigate them completely and remain safe. As a result of these complex mazes, these caves can be used to trap and kill aggressors.

2. Steep/Sheer Drops
If a soquili, even a winged on, slips and falls off a slope, there's no guarantee they'll regain their balance before they hit the bottom or the jagged rocks beneath. It is perfectly viable to impale an unsuspecting target.

3. High Altitudes
Altitude sickness may cause nausea, thin air may cause issues with breathing. The colder it gets, the more likely those with thin coats or delicate, particularly leather wings, will struggle.

4. Unclear Pathways/Trails and Unpredictable Weather:
Bad weather can come at any time in the mountains and if you are not ready, it can potentially kill you. Only those who live on the slopes know of the safe zones to wait out the storms.

5. Cloud Cover
Sometimes...it's like you're not even there!

Introduction | Location | Summit Geography | Metaplot Impacts | Herd Members | Alliances | Traditions | Social Structure | Joining

 

[Epine de Rose]

[-METAPLOT IMPACTS-]

"Peace and tranquillity may exist for a while, but there must be balance in all things. If peace, tranquillity and idleness rule the day then the spirits will cast their eyes towards chaos and seek to correct this imbalance..."

***********

On occasions Soquili may elect to hold Roleplay Meta events in the shop; while some of these may be small and won't have a significant impact on the herd, there will be others that cause a shift. If any major events happen and the Summit is set to be affected, they'll be listed here.

Kalona Metaplot - August 2013
Details: Click
Herd Impact:
To be completed at the end of the event; for the time being refugees are permitted to enter the summit through the Desert Arch, otherwise they are turned away. All Guards/Scouts are currently active either in guarding the summit or in the Valley in an attempt to stop the Kalona assault before it causes a significant threat. All those who are unable to fight are completely safe on the summit, for those who wish to take part in the meta they can definitely do so!

Remember, mares are technically not allowed to fight at the moment due to the herd make-up, but this may be set to change in the wake of assistance rendered by two females in particular!

Introduction | Location | Summit Geography | Metaplot Impacts | Herd Members | Alliances | Traditions | Social Structure | Joining

 

[Epine de Rose]

[-HOURGLASS SUMMIT MEMBERS-]

"All of us are created equal, each of us has a unique skill and something to bring to the table. While we must always answer with one voice, let it be a voice determined by the majority..."

Elders:
Bella, Yei Umeko

Angeni of Time:
Cyn Generis

Alphas:
Azshara, Elizabeth Swann

Protectors:
Sylph Forcas, Ambroise

Heirs:
Wyeth

Members:
Ashura
Azelle
Azzinoth
Cinnamon Whirl
Conduit
Esper
Farsiris
Fenghuang
Grencia
Honeycomb
Lil 'Tut
Mariasha
Azumoth
Penance
Puchi Puri
Raines
Resynn
Shizukii
Suppression
Tempest
Tranquillity
Zucutto Sohalia
Nivriti
Dove
Hazel
Sunset Saspirilla
Azuell
Kalila
Nocturne
Azimene
Numielle
Atraiu
Chetan
Kodah
Sanuye
Adarna
Gideon
Robalia
Adamantine
Imriel
Xhevahire
Zvart
Jeremiah
Hayalet
Revenant
Hok'ee
Chidi
Vasu'Raj
Nalani
Kushanu
Sarasvati
Elisheva
Isadora Fayth
Lyra

(More pending)

Mates (Undetermined if Members)
Anelisse
Corsant
Kaia
Wind Gypsy
Nephthys
Chu'mana
Huojin

Adopted Children (Undetermined if Members)
Diriel
Miriel

Introduction | Location | Summit Geography | Metaplot Impacts | Herd Members | Alliances | Traditions | Social Structure | Joining

 

[Epine de Rose]

[-ALLIANCES-]

"While we stand alone upon the precipice, be mindful of those around you that are both willing and able to help..."

The Vitterfolk
Run By: Amirynth
Location: South East, just by the Big Oak Grove
Relationship: The Vitterfolk Herd, run by the Elder troll, Malis; share a border with the Summit on the slopes that face the valley. Though they tend to keep out of one another's business, in times of strife, conflict and war, each side will provide assistance to the other. The trolls are regarded with the utmost respect, and the summit are afforded the same.

Introduction | Location | Summit Geography | Metaplot Impacts | Herd Members | Alliances | Traditions | Social Structure | Joining

 

[Epine de Rose]

[-CUSTOMS & TRADITIONS-]

"We are some of the mightiest families to exist in these lands, rich in heritage and history. Never forget who you are and where you came from, find balance between one another's beliefs and customs, let us thrive as one..."

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Each family of the Summit may have it's own customs and traditions. As each herd originates from a different location, they may draw upon external beliefs or practices. As a result, it is important to remember a few rules in regards to the various customs and traditions:

1. All family herds may have their own traditions and customs.
2. All family herds must respect one another's traditions, if you enter their 'territory', you must adhere to their rules.
3. Sacrificial, Sadistic or Masochistic traditions and customs to not fit in the summit, please be mindful of this.
4. If there are conflicting views or opinions between family herds, it must be mediated by an Elder, Alpha or Protector so ensure fairness and a decline in hostility.

Introduction | Location | Summit Geography | Metaplot Impacts | Herd Members | Alliances | Traditions | Social Structure | Joining

 

[Epine de Rose]

[-HERD SOCIAL STRUCTURE-]

"We are some of the mightiest families to exist in these lands, rich in heritage and history. Never forget who you are and where you came from, find balance between one another's beliefs and customs, let us thrive as one..."

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The Hourglass Summit is a herd of equals, as stated above it is a large number of family herds that co-exist under one banner. As a consequence, there are only a set number of individuals who are 'high rank', and even then, their rank is only an indication of their role. As a result, it is important to note the following:

1. All summit members have a voice and a vote, the herd operates under a majority rule in nearly every matter.
2. There are no ranks/roles for normal members, as a result they are supposed to use whatever skills they may have to support the herd as a whole.
3. Disputes between members are settled by a mediator, consequently, anyone of 'rank' that is recognised for their ability.

With that in mind, you can now read below for the specific ranks and what they can/can't do!

XXXXXElders:
XXXXXExisting Elders: Yei Umeko, Bella
The Elders exist as a force of guidance and reason, they are most well known for providing mediation and advice. During disputes they are the first port of call for mediation to ensure that all arguments, disputes and so forth are settled amiably.


XXXXXAlpha:
XXXXXExisting Alphas: Elizabeth Swann, Azshara
The alphas are the mates, and consequently the voice of reason to the Protectors. They ensure balance in their judgement, particularly in the event that they may wish to take a more extreme path than may be desirable. They often temper the brusque and abrupt nature of the protectors to ensure they are more personable.

More often than not, they are responsible for settling disputes in place of the elders, or acting as a point of contact to the Protectors when they prove too intimidating. Similarly, if a protector is proving to stubborn, it works far better to demand they behave through their mates!

During diplomatic events and crisis they are the voice of the herd and will speak on behalf of the majority.


XXXXXProtector:
XXXXXExisting Protector: Sylph Forcas, Ambroise
These individuals are in charge of coordinating the nitty and gritty details of the herd. They typically take on the larger roles that require more scope so that the other members can pursue and enjoy their hobbies. The protectors are often the individuals who instruct guards and scouts as to where to check, make decisions on whether to close/open borders, and will typically act as the enforcers.

They are most often there to intimidate rather than to be diplomatic. In the event of an attack, or if you wish to seek additional combat training, they are often the ones to ask. For anything more diplomatic or delicate, it would be best to ask the Alphas.

The protectors will generally operate on the majority vote, but during times of severe danger they will overrule in favour of expertise; this however, is exceedingly rare.


XXXXXHeirs:
XXXXXExisting Heirs: Wyeth
Those who will soon follow in the path of Alphas or Protectors.

Introduction | Location | Summit Geography | Metaplot Impacts | Herd Members | Alliances | Traditions | Social Structure | Joining

 

[Epine de Rose]

[-JOINING-]

"Never seek to dissuade those who seek companionship - embrace them, allow them to bring you strength..."

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The vast majority of the Soquili that live on the Summit, whether they be from the largest family or the smallest, or usually related to one another in some form. Each new addition is often a new addition or generation to these families; however this does not mean that the Summit will ever turn away those who wish to make their home there. If they desire safety, companionship and friendship, then the Summit will welcome that individual soquili or family with open arms.

The only things they ask? See below:

1. In times of need, please assist your neighbours. Whether your can heal, fight, or simply boost morale, every little helps.
2. Do not start wars with other nations.
3. Be kind and courteous to those who stumble upon your home.
4. Treat our allies with respect.
5. Respect the 'rank' held by the Elders, Alphas and Protectors.

If you feel that your soquili or family would like to live within this fortified and renowned herd, and that they can adhere to these requests, then please let us know!

You can PM me, Epine de Rose, directly - or you can post in the thread too.

[size=10][b]Name:[/b]
[b]Soquili Name(s):[/b]
[b]Family Herd or Individual:[/b]
[b]How did they find the Summit:[/b]
[b]Do they know anyone from the Summit:[/b] [/size]

Note: Any mate of an existing member can join without issue, just say the word.

Introduction | Location | Summit Geography | Metaplot Impacts | Herd Members | Alliances | Traditions | Social Structure | Joining