#sostrate

[nirawrite-holab-if]

Okok don't know if it's already been asked but how the ROs act when jealous in crushing stage? (Maybe a short snippet? 😂) And if you want, do they act different when jealous but in relationship stage?

I think when they're already on a relationship stage, they're more cool-headed than on the crush stage. I mean, they're in a relationship with the MC so they feel some jealousy but nothing like in the crush stage where everything is still uncertain.

Caemon:

It was the third dance in a row.

With the same person.

Caemon noticed every detail of the interaction. From the body language of both of them to the way the MC smiled as their dance partner spoke

The princex seemed to be having fun and having an interesting conversation — a conversation Caemon wouldn't hear.

That would be a gross invasion of privacy and also terrifying

Terrifying to know the subject of the conversation especially if it involved a specific topic: The engagement season.

He knew the MC would marry whomever they wanted - and while recent events had given him the feeling of having a certain edge in this matter, he wasn't naïve to think it meant anything concrete. At least not yet.

And that wasn't something that made him comfortable.

When the dance was over, their current partner finally said their goodbyes and withdrew leaving the MC standing on the dance floor – alone and available.

Caemon didn't realize what he was doing until he was only a few steps away from the MC, his hand outstretched in a mute invitation.

The problem was that someone else seemed to have had the same idea and was already approaching the MC talking excitedly.

The MC seemed surprised by this and hesitated.

The hesitation hit Caemon with a stab in the chest, the blow causing him to retreat a step.

The taste of jealousy had a bitter taste in his mouth and he would rather die again than have to feel it again.

An almost comical expression crossed the MC's face as they moved a step closer to him, dismissing the other person with a polite nod.

They had chosen him.

When their hands finally touched, Caemon didn't know if he would be able to let them go when the end of the song came.

N:

As if it wasn't already extremely annoying to have their conversation interrupted by a third person, N still had to witness that person make quite clearly their interest in the MC.

That last part shouldn't make them so angry, so frustrated, so close to totally losing their cool.

It was almost vulgar to have to watch this scene without being able to intervene

After all, they had no right to ask this person to walk away and they couldn't tell the MC to do it either. The hybrid was just being polite - no indication of interest on their part had been detected by N.

Even then N couldn't stop the jealousy from poking at their skin in an uncomfortable and painful way

They had already felt many emotions but jealousy was new to them. They understood this concept, of course, but the experience of having to go through it was something else entirely.

And they would need time to learn how to deal with that emotion.

Until then, they would have to face it in silence, without letting anything appear in their gestures or their expression.

And especially without letting the MC know.

That would be the easiest, after all, they were already hiding something much bigger from the MC

Sostrate:

The feeling isn't exactly new to her.

But it's intrusive and confusing. She shouldn't be feeling this for them. It shouldn't be that way

As she watches the MC being openly courted by someone she begins to realize that maybe her game has gone too far, or worse, that maybe she's gotten caught up in her own web of feelings and intentions.

Maybe she got too close to the fire.

It was supposed to be just a joke: flirting with royalty, but now the consequences were burning her. And there was nothing she could do to escape that.

Because if she backs down now, it's going to mean losing any chance to change that game and destroy that feeling

And maybe..maybe be the only one the MC would want to flirt with.

"Okay then," she says to herself, unable to take her eyes off the scene, letting jealousy burn inside her. Because it's the only thing she can do right now. "I can fix that"

Theome:

"It's enough" the words came out of Theome's mouth before they could contain themselves.

How strange, usually they are controlled. Careful in how they behaved and what they said

But lately, when it comes to the MC, it's like they don't have control of anything anymore. The mere presence of their childhood friend seemed to have an overwhelming influence on aspects of Theome's life that they had not even imagined.

"Hmm?" Oh, the person looked at them now as if they was surprised to see Theome there, they must have forgotten everything while flirting with the MC right in front of Theome.

While trying to convince the Princex to join them in the next dance.

Theome felt their mouth dry. They had acted on impulse so they had no idea how to handle the situation now. Their words were the result of a moment of jealousy.

Jealous

They had felt jealous to see someone so interested in the MC, someone with the courage to demonstrate it openly and still invite them to a dance. Someone who could gain the attention and maybe even the heart of the MC.

Fear and jealousy.

"Theome?" That was the MC's voice calling them back to reality. "Do you want to go get some fresh air? Together?" There was anxiety and worry in their voice and it only made Theome even more aware of what they could lose if they didn't act soon

They couldn't speak yet, too caught up in the confusion of their thoughts and the feelings that seemed to drown them.

But a quick nod was given in response.

"I will have to refuse your request," the Princex informed their suitor in a polite but firm tone. "But I hope you enjoy your time here."

The MC's suitor stood in the middle of the hall, staring as they both walked away.

Meanwhile, the MC guided Theome towards the gardens calmly, their hand barely touching their friend's arm.

This time the MC had chosen them. But how long would it stay that way?

Tba:

Stand still. Being invisible. Follow orders. Pretending they're just part of something mundane.

It's easy for them to play around with it but not when they're being challenged – not directly or purposefully of course, no one would be so stupid to do that

But that doesn't change anything.

Not when their MC is being the target of what is obviously a pathetic attempt to be seduced.

Normally they wouldn't use their powers so close to the MC, it would be too risky, but they need to end it

Allowing someone to think they can behave this way with something that is theirs is simply unacceptable.

But they're going to have to be discreet — at least for now.

So they use only a fraction of what they have to send a clear and direct message.

Stay away from them now

Only five words but surrounded by an intense feeling of violent oppression and a clear promise of blood if the order is not complied with immediately.

They watch the once charming and expectant face of the poor creature turn into a grimace of fear and anxiety.

A desperate look around

They don't even bother to end the conversation properly before turning around and stumbling toward the door.

Rude.

For a whole second their beloved MC doesn't react, but then, they turns to them, well, not exactly to them, but their gazes cross for a moment.

They seem confused and suspicious.

Of course, they must have felt something.

It was necessary, dear, no one is going to stand in our way.

[inkedmoth]

!! share all those ocs boo <3

Woo thank you!!

This, is Aurelia Sostrate. A species known as Ilanima, they're a race created by the Air Goddess, and are typically found living in Greek inspired Mediterranean islands off the north coast of Iskterra (a continent much like Africa).

Aurelia here, is actually one of the oldest characters I had from the Ye Olde Alcazar, but her previous storyline was scrapped until I came up with her new version.

She's the daughter of an army captain, and grew up learning how to fight and work alongside the military. She could have easily joined them herself, and would have climbed the ranks quickly, but she always had an itch to travel, so when she turned of age, she followed that urge.

After travelling the length and bredth of Iskterra, her travelling bug takes her across the seas, and she ends up on the continent of Naria. However due to the wars on Naria, her species are considered a myth, and she quickly learns to hide her wings and ears. Taking odd jobs, being hired as a body guard, and fighting in battles when paid, she essentially becomes a mercenary.

It’s through this line of work, that she stumbles across a newly created Vampire, Dante. Taking him under her wing (pun intended), she's the one that trains him in weapons and how to control his more feral nature. The pair, along with another woman called Lyra, form a small band of mercenaries, who are eventually hired by a girl named Maristella. Their group briefly become pirates, overthrow the Pirate King, and Maris takes his place with Aurelia as her advisor.

Many years later, Aurelia and Maris are contacted by Dante, and with the use of their ship Siren Song, aid him in saving Willow and Ivan from the clutches of the Fae.

Aurelia, is essentially the entire reason I created the Ilanima species, because I couldn’t bear to give her up fully. And I couldn’t visualise her as anything BUT an angel-ish being. So thanks to her I made a huge culture and society and ended up with a dozen more Ilanima to fill said society, all because I couldn’t give up one angel girl :’D

[mycolortrip]

LIGHTHOUSE

Since its construction around 280 BC, the Lighthouse of Alexandria has been considered one of the most famous monuments in history. It is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World along with the Pyramids of Giza. It is believed that the Greek architect Sostrate designed it on the small island of Pharos, connected to Alexandria by a bridge. Its octagonal tower rose on a square base, ending in a cylindrical peak. Although its exact dimensions are unknown, it is estimated that the tower was at least 105 meters high and its light was visible from 55 kilometers away, according to Jewish historian Flavius Josephus. Unfortunately, the lighthouse collapsed and disappeared during the Middle Ages, probably due to earthquakes. However, archaeologists believe they have discovered some of its remains in the waters near Pharos.

Meroe always resisted the onslaughts of the Greeks and Romans, while Alexandria peacefully welcomed all visitors. The city, founded by Alexander the Great, was a major port city situated at the mouth of the River Nile and offered access to Mediterranean trade and a safe anchorage on the island of Pharos. It quickly became a center of knowledge and culture, attracting scholars from various backgrounds such as Greeks, Egyptians and Jews. The Great Library, located in the Mouseĵon district, was founded to collect "all the books in the world", but was partially destroyed during the wars against Rome. Alexandria was home to great minds like Euclid, Archimedes and Ptolemy. The geographer Eratosthenes first measured the Earth in the city, and the first translation of the Old Testament from Hebrew into Greek was produced by hundreds of scholars in Alexandria. In the 1st century AD, the city was also where Christianity began to spread in Egypt. The city prospered until the 7th century AD, when it was conquered by the Persians and then by the Arabs. Although many of its monuments have sunk into damp soil and been devastated by natural disasters such as tidal waves, the modern city of Alexandria, with over 5 million inhabitants today, stands on top of the ruins of ancient Alexandria. However, the exact location of some of its most famous monuments, such as the tomb of the city's founder, has yet to be discovered.

[loganscanons]

nira’s family

This is super frickin’ long because Nira has a lot of siblings!! A lot of siblings with very Greek names.

I put the siblings that are still alive first on the list. Everyone after Sotiria is in order of who died most recently.

Parents - Tanis and Aniketos

Nira’s father, Aniketos (he/him), was born in 596 BCE. He was the Ancient Greek equivalent of a Colonel. Indifferent but always looked like he was judging people. Good at picking his battles and keeping control over his temper. Died in 452 BCE.

He was gray with black patterning. Gray sclera and dark gray almost black irises.

Nira’s mother, Tanis (she/her), was born in 1091 BCE to a gorgon named Pyrena. She’s a strict, no-nonsense woman. Very critical. Decisive and to-the-point. Has been a warrior, general, and gladiator. 

She’s red with white patterning. Red sclera and white irises.

Tanis has had four clutches in her lifetime. 

She had her first clutch in 563 BCE, after hundreds of years of being a warrior. Her first clutch had 48 eggs, but only 32 survived past childhood. Only two of the children from this clutch are still alive. Many of the children killed each other in the first couple hundred years after they were born. 

February 12, 471 BCE, Tanis had her second clutch, which is Nira’s clutch. The clutch had 34 eggs and 27 survived past childhood. Including Nira, 9 of them are still alive. 2 of them have been missing for hundreds of years and are presumed dead.

Kleon, Callidora, and Zosimos are all alive and living on Earth. Nikephoros is a pirate in Saventhia. Nicodemus, Eupraxia, Kylemene, and Timo live in Saventhia.

Kleon

he/him

A thorn in Nira’s side. He pisses her off, but she kind of appreciates his occasional updates on their family and where they grew up. He finds her every couple hundred years, which she thinks is too often.

Stays in touch with his siblings, including siblings from different clutches and siblings living in different realms.

Good at tracking people down.

His scales are red with mostly black and some white markings. He has red sclera and dark gray irises like Nira. 

He got a human form as payment for a job he did for a warlock in the late 1800s

Likes to know other people’s business. Travels around and will gossip with just about anyone he meets 

Also loves to make fun of people. It’s a wonder he’s not dead.

Callidora “Callie”

she/her

Lives on a small island by herself with her pet cat Tigger 

She’s entirely white with no visible patterning. Pale orange sclera and white irises. Considered very pretty among gorgons 

Not interested in relationships of any kind. She doesn’t wanna be friends, she doesn’t want to be enemies. She wants to be left alone.

Doesn’t dislike others necessarily. She just doesn’t want to deal with them. She’s happy to have Nira and Oleander visit every so often.

Usually keeps in touch with people via internet

Loves to read and learn. The only human (besides Oleander with Nira) that’s allowed to visit her is Georgi, because he delivers her book shipments to her.

Along with Nira, she’s an odd one out in the family. She chooses not fight and would rather be gentle and peaceful

Zosimos

he/him

Dark gray with white and red patterning. White irises, red sclera. Broad and large. Wears a lot of gold jewelry.

He was a very accomplished fighter in his youth, but he’s since mellowed out. He wants to be able to just live his life without anyone bothering him. 

Still lives in the area where Nira and her clutch were born. He’s one of the oldest gorgons there. 

Unimpressed by most things. Looks down on people who are irresponsible and/or don’t stand up for themselves and what they believe in. 

Lots of people consider him wise because he’s lived so long. He thinks this is bullshit and wishes young gorgons and adventurers would stop seeking him out for advice. 

Nicodemus

he/him

Like Callie, he’s unusually bookish for a gorgon. Unlike Callie, he wants to be a good fighter and isn’t. 

Somehow managed to survive despite not being a very good fighter. Nobody is quite sure how.

Skilled with a bow and arrow, so he’s not a complete failure in his mother’s eyes

Smart, withdrawn, and self-deprecating. Could probably use a hug.

Married a fae woman and moved to Saventhia with her in 1906. 

Timo, Eupraxia, and Klymene

The three of them moved to Saventhia together in 471 CE, at Timo’s suggestion. They run a little shop that deals in selling and trading magical items. They also do odd jobs. 

Klymene “Kly” (she/her) is energetic and chatty. She can be cynical and self-deprecating, but she’s also very confident. Will bench press anyone who asks her to. 

Eupraxia “Praxie” (she/her) is very quiet and shy. She’s observant and awkward and lets her sisters do all the talking. If someone talks directly to her, she gets wide-eyed and a little panicky. 

Timo (she/her) is weirdly cheerful for a gorgon. She thinks people should do what makes them happy and is considerate of other people’s point of views. However, when she’s decided she’s right, she’s impossible to argue with. She’ll come with logical arguments and if that doesn’t work, she’ll derail the conversation. If that doesn’t work, she’s happy to physically fight.

Timo suggested they move to Saventhia around the time Rome was falling and Kly and Praxie didn’t have good enough arguments not to, so they all moved. They’re all pretty happy about it, though Kly misses gladiator battles sometimes.

Their shop also sells miniatures and jewelry that Praxie creates. Timo’s wife, a minotaur named Rinata, does blacksmithing through the shop.

They’ve met Anonai and the crew.

Ptolema, Nikephoros, and Pallas

Not as close as some of the other sibling duos/trios in Nira’s clutch, but the three of them were buds.

Ptolema (she/her) was a well-known general and gladiator among gorgons. She would fight for any creature that would pay her and would have a good time doing it. Was known to provoke people into fights. Aggressive and energetic.

Pallas (they/them) often fought alongside Ptolema. They were more reserved than she was, however. While Ptolema was interested in fighting for the thrill of it, Pallas liked the technical aspects. They had a very large weapon collection. 

Nikephoros (they/them) is pretty good at fighting, but Ptolema and Pallas mostly kept them around for their sense of humor. (Also Nikephoros was going to tag along with them anyway, whether they liked it or not). They’re a thembo, energetic, and love a good brawl.

Pallas died in the 600s CE in battle.

Ptolema and Nikephoros continued to fight alongside each other and started to travel around together. Both got arm cuffs that allow them to take a human form. In the late 1600s, the two of them became pirates on a human ship

In 1741, they moved to Saventhia and continued to be pirates. Ptolema died in the late 1700s as a pirate.

Nikephoros is still a pirate in Saventhia. They’ve encountered many versions of Anonai and have yet to realize they’re different people. 

Admeta

she/her

A Bitch™, judgmental and violent. Amused by others suffering. She liked to pick at people’s insecurities and the things that made them different. She especially liked to torment Nira, because Nira would react. 

She would make fun of Nira’s tendency to fall for humans, and amped that up when Nira started dating Judas.

One day in 164 BCE, Nira snapped and killed her.

Pyrrhus, Keleos, and Rhodopis

The three of them were always together.

Pyrrhus (he/him) was practical and smart, but he had a temper.

Keleos (she/her) was the ring-leader. She was cunning but very reckless and always stressing Pyrrhus out. He loved fighting as much as the next gorgon, but Keleos’ habit of running into things head-first drove him up the wall.

Rhodopis (she/her) didn’t have a whole lot going on in her head. Just elevator music. She was shy and content to do whatever Keleos and Pyrrhus told her to do.

Keleos died in 313 CE after rushing into a fight recklessly. In his grief, Pyrrhus went off the rails and also got reckless. He died a few months later.

Rhodopis surprised everyone by managing to live a whole 4 years without Keleos and Pyrrhus. She was killed by a monster hunter in 317 CE.

Lysimachos and Sostrate

Sostrate (she/her) had all of the brain cells. She was the brain; Lysimachos (he/him) was the brawn.

They were always very close and Lysimachos was very protective of her.

Rarely interacted with others, so it took people a while to realize when they went missing in the 400s CE.

They haven’t been seen since then, and they’re presumed dead.

Sotiria

she/her

Very competent and capable. Dealt with healing and medicine.

Saw it as her duty to heal others. Gorgons who had an interest in medicine weren’t very common where she grew up, and once Sotiria realized she liked the topic and had a knack for it, she felt obligated to become a physician.

A little obsessed with learning about illnesses and biology.  

Died in 2001 of a magical illness.

Theron

he/him

The only one of her siblings that Nira was genuinely afraid of.

He almost never spoke and was unpredictable. Worked as a mercenary and assassin. Had no remorse ever.

Killed more people than any of his siblings.

In 1889, he was killed in an underground monster fighting ring.

Sophos

he/him

Fascinated by other creatures and the world beyond where he grew up.

Traveled to different realms, especially Saventhia.

For a while he was a tour guide for creatures visiting or moving to Saventhia from Earth or from Earth to Saventhia.

In the 1200s, he got an enchanted tattoo that allowed him to have a human form.

He spent most of his time in his human form and assimilated into human society.

Died as a sailor on Earth in 1792.

Nikandros

Well-known among gorgons for his skill in gladiator battles.

Had three gorgon clutches with the same woman. A few years after the third clutch was born in the 900s CE, he got on her nerves and she tried to kill him, and he took that as his cue to leave the community and start traveling, which is something he’d wanted to do for a while.

Spent about a decade traveling with Sophos, but was disappointed in the lack of fighting and decided to go his own way.

Started fighting in monster fighting rings around the world. 

Killed by a witch and a monster hunter in 1352.

Thana

she/her

Reclusive and closed-off. Emotionless even by gorgon standards. Always wanted to be left alone and would get violent if people tried to get close to her.

She was interested in black magic and the occult. In 1348, she died in a ritual gone wrong and came back as a ghoul.

She was a ghoul for about 60 years before Theron killed her for good in the early 1400s.

Pherenike

she/her

She was generally unexpressive, but she was good at rallying people. Very observant and good at reading others. A quick thinker.

Thought there was a time and place for fighting. It was impossible to rile her up if it wasn’t the time and place.

Known for winning battles and fights that seemed like lost causes.

Died in battle in 214 CE.

Aristomache

she/her

Obedient and good at following directions. Not very clever, so she was used as the muscle.

Always took her jobs very seriously. 

A better fighter than either Theron or Nira. 

Nira and Aristomache faced off in a gladiator battle in 181 BCE and Nira got lucky and won. Aristomache died from her wounds.

Praxiteles

he/him

A general in a gorgon army.

A solemn and unamused man. Likely never laughed in his life.

Skilled fighter and strategist. 

He died in battle in 211 BCE.

Lalage

she/her

Was close to Kleon when she was alive. Like Kleon, she loved to gossip and know other people’s business.

Not bright, very talkative, had a short temper, and would flirt with just about anyone.

Had three clutches within the span of 150ish years.

Killed by Theron in 227 BCE because she was annoying him.

Alkaios

he/him

Died in a gladiator battle in 341 BCE

That’s all I got

[orphicrp]

MEMBER GROUPS

below are our member groups, which are based upon our five deities: photios, melanthios, zosime, sostrate, and eros. while we cannot reveal much about them until our plot progresses, we hope the information below will offer you an overview - and as a note, for canons, groups are given randomly as a part of staff processing your application since characters have no choice over which deity elects to pluck them from their world. ( however, if you dislike the one you were given, you may change it through threading or points! )

photios — of light & day righteous. confident. haughty. values power.

upon pulling you into this world, he perhaps claims to have chosen you for your ambition or the abilities you possess, urging you to seek to still gain more while trapped, and if successful, you may earn his favor and what power he can provide. it may be too early to determine whether he is benevolent or malignant, but with the strength embedded into his every command, proceeding as he wishes seems not only common sense, but integral to your survival.

melanthios — of dark & night subtle. quick-witted. manipulative. values cunning.

she may tell you why you caught her attention upon your first encounter, or she might hold that secret close as she does with nearly all the information in her possession, she likely brought you here for something unique, whether a wit she may claim to rival her own or an ability far more subtle. she is nowhere near as arrogant as photios, willing to recognize the strength even fragile beings hold, which she believes may prove itself useful in the nearing future.

zosime — of might & boldness bold. outspoken. ambitious. values bravery.

brash and impulsive, zosime may challenge you to a duel upon first bringing you to this world  or ask for a display of the capabilities you hold that she watched you utilize prior to summoning you. she brought you for the strength you hold, and she expects action, a willingness to stand for one’s beliefs and push to get their way - and through such might, she expects her will to be achieved.

sostrate — of trust & stability honest. nurturing. trusting. values growth.

far more humble than any other, sostrate likely tells you exactly why he brought you here - perhaps even with a hint of remorse hidden behind his wary gaze. he values healers, those willing to preserve peace through whatever means necessary, the ones willing to work hard for naught but the overall good. he wishes for stability in this world, and he hopes you may aid him in providing that.

eros — of love romantic. idealistic. vain. values passion.

whimsical and beautiful, eros undoubtedly assures you that this world will be where you will find your soulmate, and you will prosper here without whatever once held you back from finding love or something you love, whether that be another person or a cause or activity to devote yourself to. she sings sweet promises of how happy you will be here - and whether that is true or not remains unknown, but if you elect to believe her, your summoning to kairos is the best thing to happen to you.

[bronzewool]

I’m nearly half way through NaNoWriMo and I still can’t remember any of the character names I’ve picked for my story. It got so bad I have to make a chart just to keep track of them all.

Seers

Lickety-Split - Lysistrata “lysis” (F)

Blackarachnia - Oracle Bladina (F)

Lightbright - Ligeia (F)

Wheelie - Williric (M)

Nightstick - Nicolaos “Niko” (M)

Dragonriders

Cyclonus - Kyriakos “Kyrios” (M)

Galvatron - Gautvin (M)

Scourge - Scolaighe (M)

Misfire - Miltiades (M)

Slugslinger - Sigmundr (M)

Triggerhappy - Tryphosa (F)

Brainstorm - Brennus (M)

Chromedome - Chrysanthe (F)

Hardhead - Hadriana (F)

Highbrow - Hildebrand (M)

& Their Dragons

Krunix - Kallisto (F)

Zarak - Zeno (M)

Fracas - Frida (F)

Aimless - Aemilius (M)

Caliburst - Camilla (F)

Blowpipe - Bertilo (M)

Arcana - Acacius (M)

Stylor - Stigr (M)

Duros - Drusa (F)

Gort - Goda (F)

Other Characters

Flareup - Flaviana “Flavia” (F)

Warpath - Warin (M)

Yoketron -  Father Yehoshua (M)

Maccadam - Maedoc (M)

Original Character - Livianus (M)

Deities

Primus - Priscus (Sun God & The Creator)

Unicron - Uhtric (Moon God of Death)

Prima - Priscilla (Goddess of War & Warriors)

Vector - Vercingetorix (God of Time and space)

Alpha - Aliprand (God of Writing and language)

Solus - Sostrate (Fire Goddess of Blacksmiths)

Micronus - Mithradatha (God of Justice)

Alchemist - Amalasuintha (Knowledge Goddess of philosophy)

Nexus - Nebuchadnezzar (Season God of agriculture & Farming)

Onyx - Onesiphoros (Nature God of Animals and the hunt)

Amalgamous - Amalasuintha (Night Goddess of Dreams)

Quintus - Quintilianus (Healing God of Science)

Liege Maximo - Maximiliana (Trickster Goddess of the Arts)

Places

Cybertron - Cynesige

Chaar - Chares

Helex - Helmfrid

Iacon - Iason

Kalis - Kallias

Praxus - Praxiteles

Polhex - Philon

Stanix - Saxa

Tetrahex -  Toutorix

Tarn - Tertia

Tyrest - Tryphon

[hazoret]

My fanwalker Sostrate is a smith from Theros who travels the planes to find and collect magical metals and similar substances. Unfortunately, this can mean that she gets a bit reckless when she finds them, which is why she has a huge scar on her arm (from a phyrexian obliterator when she found uncorrupted darksteel), and why she, at random, sometimes turns into an angel (a glazeplate helm on Dominaria still had a bit of it's former owner's soul, and when she picked it up...)

Neat!!!

[nimiana]

my teacher told us to get creative with translating lysias; i used highlanders’ dialect

21. I kiej ło syćko łonom  upytałek, pedziałek tok:

Teroz sie nie wygodosz, bo cie ubijem. Jo kce ziorać, nie suchać, jok sie Eratostenes z babom ścigajom. Godki mi nie trza, jeno cynów, jako dyć robiom.  

22. Łona ugodziła sie tako naryktować. Przeszło śtyry, pienć dziojków. Nojści jo wom pedze mondry dowod. Pirwyj wom kce pedzieć trefunki pośledniego dzionka. Miołek Sostratesa najlepsiejsego kumotra. Stretnołek go łazoncego odwiecyrz z pola. Namyśliłek, jedy nieskoro przyloz, nie obocy nikto w doma, hebałek cobyśmy zryli w mojej chałpie. Kiej heboł ze mno u doma, wlyźlimy u hornej izby i zrylimy.  

23. Kiej se podchlybioł, Sostrates ślysoł z doma, zasiy jo bechnołek w wyrko. Eratostenes, gazdowie mili, wlyzi, i dziywka juści mnie budzi i peda, co łon je w doma. Jo łonej godłek dzwiyrze zapryć i ślysłek cicho. I snalasłek kumów po domach i halach.  

24. Snalasłek gmełć chłopa i pudymy. Wzielimy łogień z komory i włazimy do doma, dziywka dzwiyrze łodymknoła i syćko naryktowała. Pierwi uwidzili obleśnioka przy babie ścigajocego się, inksy złodzionego kiej wstoł.  

25. Jo łonego bechnołek i zwiozałek gorzcie za plecomi. Zapytołek cemu mojego doma tarasi.  Plugoc jeden pedzioł ze to cynił i mnie pytoł cobym go nie ubijał, aba zmamrał się i dutki wzioł.  

26. Jo mu pedziałek:  

Nie jo cie ubije, aba usipy nasej dziedziny, którech kciałeś babarać i nabaciarzyć i tarmosiłeś babe mojom i gowyidź mojom, miast usipy obocyć, jok wyrychtowany chłop.  

[mebwalker]

Ériphile par Edmond Geffroy (théâtre-documentation.com)

In this post, we read the comedy. However, the comedy has interludes written by Molière. Every stage effect was used to please the King and his Court. So, excluding the intermèdes (interludes) seems inappropriate.

In Les Amants magnifiques, we are in the Vale of Tempe, the location where the events of Mélicerte and La Pastorale comique take place. The location was suggested by Louis XIV and so was the subject: rival lovers. You may remember that these two plays were incomplete. Molière may have looked upon these plays as pièces de circonstances.  When the obligatory period of mourning for Anne d’Autriche, Louis’ mother, ended, the Court moved to Saint-Germain-en-Laye, a royal residence. At the very center of these festivities was Isaac de Benserade‘s Ballet des Muses FR. Molière’s contribution was the ballet’s third entrée. Mélicerte was played from 2 December 1666 to 5 January 1667, the day it was replaced by La Pastorale comique. A third play, Le Sicilien, ou l’Amour peintre was staged on 13 or 14 February, at Saint-Germain. It was a late entry, the fourteenth. It would not be played for a wider audience until 10 June 1667. Molière had fallen ill.

Molière’s “Mélicerte” (4 May 2019)

Molière’s Pastorale comique (The Comic Pastoral) (10 May 2019)

Molière’s “Sicilien,” or “Love makes the Painter” (14 May 2019)

Les Amants magnifiques, The Magnificent Lovers, is described as a five-act comédie héroïque and a comédie-ballet, in prose. It was part of a grand divertissement commissioned by Louis XIV and Madame de Montespan. In fact, Louis chose the subject: rival princes. It was a pièce à machines that incorporated every stage effect. The play was meant to dazzle the audience.

Various members of the Court played roles in The Magnificent Princes‘ intermèdes: singers and dancers. They are named in La Pléiade‘s 1956 edition of Molière’s Œuvres complètes, the edition I use in combination with the Molière 21’s 2010 Pléiade edition. Louis didn’t dance and would never dance again. According to other sources, Louis XIV danced for the last time. Until Les Amants magnifiques FR, the King had commissioned Isaac de Benserade to write divertissements. However, Isaac de Benserade had displeased Madame de Monstespan. So, considerable trust was invested in Molière. Les Amants magnifiques was written by Molière to music by Jean-Baptiste Lully. The lavish play was too expensive to be performed in Paris. It premièred on 4 February 1670, at Saint-Germain-en-Laye, during Carnival season. It closed after five performances. Linked to this play is La Princesse d’Élide (1664), written for another divertissement: Les Plaisirs de l’Île enchantée, festivities that took place early during the construction of Versailles.

par François Boucher (dessin) et Laurent Cars (gravure), 1734 (commons.wikimedia.org)

In short, Les Amants magnifiques is:

a comédie héroïque,

a comédie à machines,

and a comédie-ballet,

in five acts and in prose with intermèdes.

Its music was composed by Jean-Baptiste Lully.

It was first performed on 4 February 1670 at Saint-Germain,

before the King and his Court.

Our dramatis personæ is:

Iphicrates & Timocles, princes in love with Eriphyle. Sostratus, a general, also in love with Eriphyle. Anaxarchus, an astrologer. Cleon, his son. Chorœbus, in the suit of Aristione. Clitidas, a court jester, one of the attendants of Eriphyle. Aristione, a princess, mother to Eriphyle. Eriphyle, a princess, daughter to Aristione. Cleonice, confidante to Eriphyle.

Ériphile par Edmond Hédouin

Ériphile par Adolphe Lalauze

Les Amants magnifiques par Edmond Hédouin (théâtre-documentation.com) Les Amants magnifiques par Adolphe Lalauze  (théâtre-documentation.com)

The Plot

La Princesse Ériphile graces the image above. Her mother, Princesse Aristione, has asked her to choose her own husband. Two princes are courting her: Iphicrate and Timoclès. They are the “amants magnifiques” (the magnificent lovers). Psyché, a tragédie-ballet, would also feature two competing lovers. Psyché could not choose between her two princes, nor can Ériphile. She says that marrying one would hurt the other. She could not love the princes. They have not merit.

ACT ONE

Sostrate tells Clitidas that he is in love

Rank: an obstacle

Sostrate is asked to find out which prince she has chosen

However, in Act One, after much prying, Sostrate, a general in the army, tells Clitidas, a courtier, that he loves Ériphile, but that his rank and fortune do not allow him to reveal his feelings and marry her. How can he, a general, compete with two princes. As for Sostrate he will die without revealing his feelings:

Mourir sans déclarer ma passion. Sostrates à Clitidas (I. i, p. 4) [To die without telling my love.] Sostrates to Clitidas (I. 1)

However, in Scene Two, Sostrate is asked by Aristione, Ériphile’s mother to choose one of the princes on her behalf, which is very ironical. He would like to refuse, but must serve Aristione:

Puisque vous le voulez, Madame, il vous faut obéir, mais je vous jure que dans toute votre cour vous ne pouviez choisir personne qui ne fût en état de s’acquitter beaucoup mieux que moi d’une telle commission. Sostrate à Aristione (I. ii, p. 7) [Since it is your wish, Madam, I must obey; but I assure you that there is not one person in the whole of your court who would be less qualified for such a commission than myself.] Sostrate à Aristione (I. 2)

Ériphile missed a divertissement planned by the one of the rival princes.

Madame, elle s’est écartée, et je lui ai présenté une main qu’elle a refusé d’accepter. Timoclès à Aristione (l. ii, p. 6) She is gone away, Madam. I offered her my arm, which she refused to accept. Timoclès to Aristione (I. 2)

Later, Cléonice, Ériphile’s confidante says:

On trouvera étrange, Madame, que vous vous soyez ainsi écartée de tout le monde Cléonice à Ériphile (I. v, p. 9) [It will be thought strange, Madam, that you should keep away from everybody] Cléonice to Ériphile (I. 6)

Sostrate also missed the entertainment. Why did Ériphile and Sostrate stay away?

Pour moi, Madame, connaissant son indifférence et le peu de cas qu’elle fait des devoirs qu’on lui rend, je n’ai voulu perdre auprès d’elle, ni plaintes, ni soupirs, ni larmes. Sostrate à Aristione (I. ii, p. 6) [For my part, Madam, knowing her indifference and the little value she sets upon the homage that is paid to her, I did not mean to waste either sighs or tears upon her.] Sostrate to Aristione (I. 2)

So, from the beginning of the play, Ériphile shows little interest in her suitors. An interméde separate Act One and Act Two. It is a gift from Cléonice and features three Pantomines.

ACT TWO

Sostrate has placed Ériphile above everything.

marivaudage prefigured

the confession: no one and nothing is above Ériphile

In Act Two, Scene Two, Clitidas tells Ériphile that Sostrate has placed her above everything else and loves her:

Il m’a demandé si vous aviez témoigné grande joie au magnifique régale que l’on vous a donné; m’a parlé de votre personne avec des transports les plus grands du monde, vous a mise au-dessus du Ciel, et vous a donné toutes les louanges qu’on peut donner à la princesse la plus accomplie de la terre, entremêlant tout cela de plusieurs soupirs qui disaient plus qu’il ne voulait. Enfin, à force de le tourner de tous côtés, et de le presser sur la cause de cette profonde mélancolie, dont toute la cour s’aperçoit, il a été contraint de m’avouer qu’il était amoureux. Clitidas à Eriphile (II. ii, p. 11) [He asked me if you were very pleased with the royal entertainments that are offered to you. He spoke of your person with the greatest transports of delight, extolled you to the sky, and gave you all the praises that could be given to the most accomplished princess in the world, and with all this uttering many sighs which told me more than he thought. At last, by dint of questioning him in all kinds of ways, and pressing him to tell me the cause of his melancholy, which is noticed by everyone at court, he was forced to acknowledge that he is in love.] Clitidas to Ériphile (II. 3)

Ériphile is miffed. This is marivaudage, a form of galanterie found in the works of Pierre de Marivaux. It governs the action of Marivaux’s Le Jeu de l’amour et du hasard. In fact, Ériphile is not miffed. Clitidas tricks her by changing his statement. Sostrate is in love with Arsinoé not Ériphile. Clitidas realizes that Ériphile is not pleased. He has, therefore, elicited the truth by provoking jealousy.

Non, non, Madame, je vois que la chose ne vous plaît pas. Votre colère m’a obligé à prendre ce détour, et pour vous dire la vérité, c’est vous qu’il aime éperdument. Licidas à Ériphile (II. ii, p. 11) [No, no, Madam; I see that this offends you. Your anger forced me to make use of this subterfuge; and, to tell you the truth, it is you he loves to distraction.] Licidas to Ériphile (II. 3)

In Act Two, Scene Three, Sostrate does as he has been told. He asks Ériphile which of the two princes she prefers.

Whom would Sostrate chose between her rival princes? Only Gods would qualify.

Si l’on s’en rapporte à mes yeux, il n’y aura personne qui soit digne de cet honneur. Tous les princes du monde seront trop peu de chose pour aspirer à vous; les Dieux seuls y pourront prétendre, et vous ne souffrirez des hommes que l’encens, et les sacrifices. Sostrate à Ériphile (II. iii, p. 13) [If I were to be judge, I should find no one worthy of that honour. All the princes of the world would be too mean to aspire to you; the gods alone can pretend to you, and you would have from men but incense and sacrifice.] Sostrate to Ériphile (II. 4)

In short, it is for Ériphile to choose between the rival princes. As for Sostrate, although he loves Ériphile, he remains a mere general.

Acts Two and Three are separated by a rather long intermède that includes a lovely scene of dépit amoureux, spite between lovers, a pastoral shepherds and shepherdesses, satyrs, dryads, fauns, nymphs, etc. It will be discussed separately.

ACT THREE

Aristione chooses Sostrate to know which of the two princes she prefers.

J’estime tant Sostrate, que soit que vous vouliez vous servir de lui pour expliquer vos sentiments, ou soit que vous vous en remettiez absolument à sa conduite, je fais, dis-je, tant d’estime de sa vertu et de son jugement, que je consens de tout mon cœur à la proposition que vous me faites. Aristione à tous (III. i, p. 24) [I have such a high regard for Sostratus that, whether you mean to employ him to explain your feelings or to leave him entirely to decide for you, I consent heartily to this proposition.] Aristione to all (III. 1)

Sostrate wishes to refuse, but he can’t. This request comes from a princess:

Par quelle raison donc, refusez-vous d’accepter le pouvoir qu’on vous donne, et de vous acquérir l’amitié d’un prince qui vous devrait tout son bonheur? Timoclès à Sostrate (III. i, p. 24) [For what reason could you have had, Sostratus, for refusing it?] Timoclès to Sostrate (III. 4) Par la raison que je ne suis pas en état d’accorder à ce prince ce qu’il souhaiterait de moi. Sostrate à Timoclès (III. i, p. 24) [The fear of not acquitting myself well.] Sostrate to Timoclès (III. 4)

Sostrate recoils and Aristione. It is then for an astrologist, Anaxarque, to consult the stars. This is a fourberie, a trick.

ACT FOUR

In Act Four, Scene One, Aristione would like her daughter to tell all. Ériphile cannot. The man she loves is of a rank her mother would not accept.

Parlez à cœur ouvert, ma fille, ce que j’ai fait pour vous mérite bien que vous usiez avec moi de franchise. Tourner vers vous toutes mes pensées, vous préférer à toutes choses, et fermer l’oreille en l’état où je suis, à toutes les propositions que cent princesses en ma place écouteraient avec bienséance, tout cela vous doit assez persuader que je suis une bonne mère, et que je ne suis pas pour recevoir avec sévérité les ouvertures que vous pourriez me faire de votre cœur. Aristione to Ériphile (IV. i, p. 28) [Speak openly, daughter; what I have done for you well deserves that you should be frank and open with me. To make you the sole object of all my thoughts, to prefer you above all things, to shut my ears, in the position I am in, to all the propositions that a hundred princesses might decently listen to in my place—all that ought to tell you that I am a kind mother, and that I am not likely to receive with severity the confidences your heart may have to make.] Aristione to Ériphile (IV. 1) Si j’avais si mal suivi votre exemple, que de m’être laissée aller à quelques sentiments d’inclination que j’eusse raison de cacher, j’aurais, Madame, assez de pouvoir sur moi-même pour imposer silence à cette passion, et me mettre en état de ne rien faire voir qui fût indigne de votre sang. Ériphile to Aristione (IV. i, p. 28) [If I had so badly followed your example as to have allowed an inclination I had reason to conceal to enter my soul, I should have power enough over myself to impose silence on such a love, and to do nothing unworthy of your name.] Ériphile to Aristione (IV. 1)

In Act Four, Scene Two, a false Venus arrives in her chariot and says that Aristione should consider giving her daughter to the person who saves her life.

Princesse, dans tes soins brille un zèle exemplaire,/ Qui par les Immortels doit être couronné,/ Et pour te voir un gendre, illustre et fortuné,/ Leur main te veut marquer le choix que tu dois faire;/ Ils t’annoncent tous par ma voix,/ La gloire et les grandeurs, que, par ce digne choix,/ Ils feront pour jamais entrer dans ta famille,/ De tes difficultés termine donc le cours;/ Et pense à donner ta fille/ À qui sauvera tes jours./ Vénus à Aristione (IV. ii, p. 28-29) [Princess, in you shines a glorious example, which the immortals mean to recompense; and that you may have a son-in-law both great and happy, they will guide you in the choice you should make. They announce by my voice the great and glorious fame which will come to your house by this choice. Therefore, put an end to your perplexities, and give your daughter to him who shall save your life.] Vénus to Aristione (IV. 2)

In Act Four, Scene Three, we learn that Venus is a false Venus. Cléon and his father Anaxarque are arranging for men to capture Aristione. Iphicrate will save her.

Va-t’en tenir la main au reste de l’ouvrage, préparer nos six hommes à se bien cacher dans leur barque derrière le rocher; à posément attendre le temps que la princesse Aristione vient tous les soirs se promener seule sur le rivage, à se jeter bien à propos sur elle, ainsi que des corsaires, et donner lieu au prince Iphicrate de lui apporter ce secours, qui sur les paroles du Ciel doit mettre entre ses mains la princesse Ériphile. Anaxarque à Cléon (IV. iii, p. 29) [Be it your part to go and get our six men to hide themselves carefully in their boat behind the rock, and make them wait quietly for the time when the princess comes alone in the evening for her usual walk. Then they must suddenly attack her like pirates, in order to give the opportunity to Prince Iphicrates to rush to her rescue, and lend her the help which is to put Eriphyle in his hands according to the words of Venus.] Anaxarque to Cléon (IV. iv)

ACT FIVE

In Act Five, Scene One, we are told that Aristione was attacked by a boar, but was saved by Sostrate. Sostrate being a hero, he may marry Ériphile. Men were to attack Aristione, not a boar.

Anaxarque misused both princes. But Sostrate saved Aristione.  She forgives and all go to the Jeux Pythiens.

Je pardonne toutes ces menaces, aux chagrins d’un amour qui se croit offensé, et nous n’en verrons pas avec moins de tranquillité la fête des jeux Pythiens. Allons-y de ce pas, et couronnons par ce pompeux spectacle cette merveilleuse journée. Aristione aux princes (V. iv, p. 34) [I forgive all these threats for the sake of the sorrow of a love which thinks itself insulted; and we will none the less go and see the Pythian Games in all peace. Let us go at once, and let us crown by the glorious spectacle this wonderful day.] Aristione to the princes (V. 4)

Costumes for Les Amants magnifiques, Calvin University

Conclusion

The above is incomplete. In Les Amants magnifiques, the plot is embedded in mostly pastoral and mythological interludes. Louis XIV is Apollon. Louis chose the subject of his Carnival season divertissement: rival princes. So, we are in the Vale of Tempe, an idyllic location, but a princess who is “free” to choose her husband is not “free.” She must choose one of the two princes which would now be subjection to the gods. Contrary to her mother’s wishes, Ériphile would not marry the man she loves and a man of merit. Sostrate, a man of merit, does not qualify as a suitor to a princess. The princes regale Ériphile with delightful entertainment, but she and Sostrate do not always attend. Sostrate cannot give as a husband to Ériphile one of two scheming princes. So the matter goes to an astrologer. Her fate is no longer in Ériphile’s own hands.

Hélas! quelle est ma destinée, et qu’ai-je fait aux Dieux pour mériter les soins qu’ils veulent prendre de moi? Ériphile à Cléonice et Sostrate (IV. iv, p. 30) [Alas! how hard is my destiny! What have I done to the gods that they should interest themselves in what happens to me?] Ériphile to Cléonice and Sostrate (IV. 5)

Obedience to parents is a matter Molière has raised in plays such as Mélicerte. Myrtil will not let a father prevent his marrying a woman other than Mélicerte.

Anaxarque, an “astrologer,” is making plans to trap Aristione and give her daughter to Iphicrate, which would be what the gods decide. However, Ataxarque’s plan misfires. Aristione is attacked by a boar and Venus, albeit a false Venus, has decreed that Ériphile is to wed her mother’s saviour is Sostrate, The gods have spoken.

So, once, comedy, or destiny, is complicit with Ériphile and Sostrate, the young lovers of comedy. It’s an all’s well that ends well, but a complex tout est bien qui finit bien.  After its Saint-Germain-en-Laye performances, Les Amants magnifiques was not performed, at least, not in Molière’s lifetime.

RELATED ARTICLES

Molière’s “Mélicerte”

Sources and Resources

The Magnificent Lovers is Gutenberg’s [EBook #7067] Les Amants magnifiques is a toutmoliere.net publication

—ooo—

  Love to everyone 💕 I thought I had fixed my computer. I had, temporarily. It seems I have to buy a new computer. This one never worked very well.

  Entrée d’Apollon — Jean-Baptiste Lully (Personne n’est Dieu sur cette terre. No one is God on this earth.)

Muse of comedy and idyllic poetry, Jean-Marc Nattier (Wikipedia)

© Micheline Walker 30 September 2019 WordPress

              Molière’s “Les Amants magnifiques” In this post, we read the comedy. However, the comedy has interludes written by Molière. Every stage effect was used to please the King and his Court.

[sethmeeyn]

Centerstage with: Laurel Aldredge, in 'Women in Congress'

"One of the yes-men," she said, laughing, "to the protagonist, Praxagora. She's a dainty woman ... a female Sheldon (Cooper) on 'Big Bang Theory.'" She plays Sostrate delicately, as someone who "doesn't like to get her hands dirty and gets overly excited at times." Laurel said that while she can get ...

[nirawrite-holab-if]

How would the Ro's react to a classic fakeout out kiss. IE where the MC leans towards as if to kiss them but at the last minute it turns out they were actually just grabbing something off a shelf behind them.

Caemon: He would watch the MC with curious interest. Not really believing that the MC would have the courage to take the first step and break the tension that was already building up between them. When the MC walked away with an object in their hands, not even seeming to notice his presence there, he would wonder if he had misunderstood their intentions or if the MC had just made one more move to intensify the situation between them

N: Error. Error. N's mind would go blank. They wouldn't quite know how to act or what to think. Do they want the MC to kiss them? Yes. Yes? Since when? It would make them so engrossed in thinking that they wouldn't even notice the MC walking away with a book in their hands

Sostrate: She would be perplexed at first, but totally excited for the kiss to happen, seeing that this was not the MC's real intention, she would feel frustration, but also the certainty that maybe she would have to take the first step for this to happen for real

Theome: Honestly, they would just stare at the MC with a mesmerized air. Their mind already wondering what it would be like when the MC's lips finally touched theirs... The spell would be broken when Theome saw that they had just misinterpreted the act. Oh, well... maybe one day the MC would finally approach them for a kiss. If they built up the courage to talk about their feelings for the heir, of course.

[auntcece]

Character Collection: Sostrate Garnet Holmes

View this collection on Polyvore

Character Collection: Sostrate Garnet Holmes by crimsoncapo ❤ liked on polyvore.com

[nirawrite-holab-if]

Okay so how would the RO's react when mc one day forgets to give them their daily kisses?

Caemon: He wouldn't react immediately, he would watch the MC for a while to see if this was happening for a specific reason or not. After coming to the conclusion that the MC just didn't seem to remember it, he would wait for the MC to be alone to remind them of their duties..

N: "I'm here for the kisses" they would randomly appear next to the MC after making sure they weren't interrupting Something important. "Looks like you forgot about it today, MC."

Theome: They'd be a little nervous about it trying to remember if they'd done anything to upset the MC. After not being able to think of anything that could justify the MC not wanting to kiss them, they would talk to the MC about it and feel a huge relief to know that the MC had just forgotten about the kisses.

Sostrate: She'd be pretty blunt about it after realizing that the MC didn't seem to have any intention of kissing her. Or that they didn't even seem to remember that they used to do it "You haven't kissed me today yet. Why?"

Tba: They would wait for the right moment (or what they consider to be the right time) to remind the MC of all the kisses they forgot to give them in the course of the day

[nirawrite-holab-if]

OMG DID CYRA HIRE SOSTRATE ????????

Why would you think something like that?!

[nirawrite-holab-if]

She thought that MC was some spoiled kid who can't fight? 🤨

"Many rumors for little truth, perhaps?"

Of course she knows it's not smart to assume things about others, especially someone like MC but...She kind of didn't realize who the MC really was until it was too late and backing down from a fight isn't her style.

And then she realized that the rumors weren't just rumors 🤣

[nirawrite-holab-if]

It makes sense, I guess. And MC seems competent enough to defend themselves.

On the other hand, Sostrate and her team were not particularly dangerous 🤣

I could create a story just with all the times the MC had to fend for themselves against the dangers of the road 🤣

And don't let Sostrate read this! She just underestimated her target ... 🫠🥹