HOME | DD

Description

ÉTAÍN"Velvet demon screaming louder than a shotgunDirty dreaming go and love yourself"

Tracker | Star Chart | Accessories | Moodboard | Playlist
3/02/18 - Written application complete

GENERAL INFORMATIONFull Name: Étaín Rowan
Pronunciation: AY-teen row-AHN
Nickname/s: Ét
Age: 42
      Birthday: Autumn 1659
      Hireath Zodiac: The Peryton - Sign of Cunning
Gender: Female
Orientation: Bisexual Aromantic
Breed: Unicorn (Psilomelane cabochon horns/hooves)
Height: 14.3hh
Phenotype: Buckskin

Voice Actor: TBA
Physical Description:
Fuller-bodied, with slender, surprisingly sturdy legs, Étaín's figure is overall similar to that of an Andalusian or Lipizzan, with emphasis placed on her large barrel and chest. Her profile is straight, with almond-shaped eyes and small ears, and a notably boxy muzzle. Her mane and tail are silky and volumous, which curl gently at the ends. She has light, wavy feathering along her feltlocks and cannon that she trims short, to avoid it dragging in the dirt when she’s working or moving around her acreage. Feathering also grows at the base of her tail and along the bottom of her jaw in a beard, however she clips both to appear more sleek and collected. Her hooves are cloven and relatively strong, not prone to chipping or cracking.
Active Accessories:
Gilded Bridle: Cream and gold fabric, with delicate silver chain cheekpieces and fine gold chain accents along the browband, framing a polished Carnelian accent.
Makeup: Yellow eyeshadow, black eyeliner and mascara.

Affiliation: Aodh
Rank: Commoner - winery owner
Rank Details: Étaín owns and runs a large winery situated along the outskirts of Opulence, recruiting assistance in the form of labor to manage the 5 hectare plot. The main export from her winery is Përparim Wine, first brewed by her family 3 generations ago. Red and rosé are the primary wines sold under this brand. Other items sold include honey, beeswax, flower cuttings, chicken eggs, goats cheese and milk, which are sold locally from the property. Exports must be requested in order to ship these over long distances. Ét completes small tasks around the vineyard, such as growing and preparing flower cuttings, where slaves and other helpers tend vineyards and produce wine, overseen by Ét. Her winery acts as a haven for smuggled slaves, where they may rest before continuing to move on, or may choose to stay and work for her permanently as her helpers. She associates with multiple Valorian smugglers, promising the safety of their charges.
Drive: To be successful.
Current Location: Opulence, Eithne

Religious Views: Reveres Ignacio. She was taught from a young age to respect and pray to Kaia, Alya, and Cascade to keep her crops and acreage healthy. She is curious about Digend and the lore surrounding them. Largely indifferent towards Argus, may argue they are the least 'useful' deity.
First Talent: Agriculturalist [LOCKED]
Second Talent: Improvisionist [LOCKED]
First Blessing: Memory Manipulation [LOCKED]
Second Blessing: Pain Infliction [LOCKED]
RELATIONSHIPS
Mate: N/a
Romantic Interest: ew
Offspring: --

Dam: Siv
Sire: Valens
Siblings: None
Extended Family:
      Great Grandsire: Askr
Great Granddam: Ilona
Grandsire: Gallus
Granddam: Íde

Other Relations:
    Slaves: [open]
    Helpers: [open]
    Trade Relations: Otieno
                                [TBA]

PERSONALITY
[Forgiving] [Intuitive] [Charismatic] [Ambitious] || [Explosive] [Deceptive] [Manipulative] [Fickle]

Forgiving and intuitive, she will often forgive to regain a sense of control over the individual, turning to focus on how she may triumph over them should they come forward to evoke confrontation again. She is constantly deliberating ways to improve upon old or current practices and ways of thinking in her business, striving for success for the family winery and Përparim brand. Her intuition feeds her ambition to brush shoulders with and be familiar with Aodhian nobility, constantly jockeying with her competitors.
Charismatic and ambitious, Étaín assumes a maternal role over her charges, regardless of slave or ‘helper’ title, and often writhes her way into their minds to vicariously achieve her goals. Her charisma is utilised to assist her in forming steadfast relations with both locals and foreigners, for trade or for skill and practice in farming. Repeatedly exploiting her skill with words and manner, Étaín regularly manipulates more single-minded equines to fulfill her desires. Her ambition scarcely exceeds her charisma, both equally matched to form an undisputable desire to succeed and climb higher in the eyes of others. She loathes feeling small, and any off-handed remark will spark her into a frenzied pursuit to surpass her previous social or business standing.
Explosive and deceptive, Ét will often evade questions she feels are too personal or confrontational, or may have the possibility to expose her. She builds a facade around her, potentially trying to appeal the higher class and nobility of Aodh, and crafting her psychological appearance with as much if not more care than her physical. If pushed too hard, she will lash out and often do so violently. Following this, she will typically ‘forgive’ the individual apologises, but wariness prevents her from forgetting it entirely, preferring to be prepared and have experience with how the individual acts should another issue arise.
Manipulative and fickle, she prefers to slip back after the first encounter, noting ways in which the equine in question could be manipulated and if their chances of refusing her proposition are slim. Combined with her intuitive and ambitious nature, she is constantly rewriting and repurposing information she gathers to use against competitors, hungering after the most efficient way of disarming opposing individuals. Quick to change her mind for the right reason, Étaín does so frequently after gathering new information on opposition or threats, whether businesses or individuals that may jeopardise her winery or more illegal, smuggler-aligned operation. Her changeability poses both advantages and disadvantages, wherein misinformation could easily become her downfall.

FAMILIAR
Name: | [PURCHASE NOTE]
Age:
Sex:
Species:
Personality:
Relationship with Étaín:
HISTORYTotal WC: 2 946

Brief Overview:
A third generation brewer, Ét was born and taught in the ways of cultivating grapevines and general produce, along with how to care for the crops and property. She learned how to get what she wanted as a child, and during her childhood her family partnered with a merchant to sell their wine in Valore. As a teenager she assisted in building small projects with her parents, and discovered the nightlight of Opulence, albeit small. During one of her outings she sighted her first smuggler, and was informed of their operations. As a young adult, she rebranded the wine to Përparim and continued to expand the property, purchasing four slaves to assist in manual labor. Encountering another smuggler she offered them future refuge for their slave charges, with the winery being officially handed over to her at age 29. Her first indirect encounter with cultists and their deity, Digend, occured when she was 31, and she was educated on worshipping the god by a hedgewitch. The first lot of smuggled slaves arrived 4 years later, during the year 1666, thanks to her young smuggler relative, Ave. Realising their potential to assist in the winery’s efficiency, she drafted a brand that would conceal the Aodhian dragon brand of slaves, and offered rebranding to those who wished to stay on the property permanently as ‘helpers’. She justified the process by assuring that it would keep them safe from Chevaliers and Slave Traders. Étaín continues to oversee and conduct all business associated with the Winery, and refuses to turn away smuggled slaves should they desire safety.

Family Background:
Askr, Étaín’s great grandfather, was a War Forged farmer from the Eastern Cliffs in Onea who travelled to Eithne to improve upon his agricultural skills at 28 years old. Once there, he ‘apprenticed’ under a farmer situated in Opulence for 5 years, focusing on growing and maximising fruit tree yield, along with root vegetables and various grains. He later garnered an interest in brewery after apprenticing under a vineyard owner, and learned their skills in brewery for 2 years. At 33 years old, Askr met Ilona, a noble lady visiting Opulence from Valore, who would become his wife that same year, much to the protests of her parents. Believing he had found his calling in brewery, he applied for Aodhian citizenship, purchasing a 5 acre plot of land while he awaited approval. The plot consisted of sparse woodland and soft, gently sloping plains, which assisted in efficient cultivation. A homestead was established, along with the first vineyards at the beginning of the new year. During this time, Askr’s application for citizenship was approved. The next year, twin girls were born to the pair, Breda and Íde. Both twins were raised and educated in brewery and how to cultivate the land to produce higher quality produce, and in turn, higher quality wine. 3 more foals followed the twins - Jarl, Katri, and Meallán - until at 53 years old, Askr purchased another 2 acres and retired from labor-intensive work. Íde, the eldest daughter, was wed at 23 years old in an arranged marriage to the son of Ilona’s former husband-to-be, at the command of Ilona’s noble parents. She had her first and only child, Valens, at 24 years old, while her husband Gallus, unaccustomed to the working lifestyle, purchased 2 slaves to help work the land, much to the disapproval of Askr.
Askr continued to advise and assist his children in the winery business until 75 years old, where he died in his sleep. Ilona graciously ruled and advised the growing winery until she died 20 years later, aged 83. After her death, Íde and Breda assumed equal head positions, taking charge of the winery. Unmarried and without a child, Breda engaged in much of the vineyard’s labor alongside Jarl, Katri and the two slaves. Meallán, largely uninterested in brewer life, quickly took up the role of in-house florist, growing and arranging bouquets of cut flowers to sell in local markets. This prompted discussion between the siblings, talk of expanding stock and produce overtaking the household. Encouraged by Meallán and Jarl, who collaboratively tended the continually growing businesses’ finances, the family invested in an additional 2 acres. These were planted with fruit orchards and numerous vine rows, a small corner fenced off to house goats, which they would use for milk. During this turbulent time of expansion, exporting wine became another topical issue. Only sold locally, and convinced their winery potential was unfulfilled, Íde bargained with a merchant to sell 30 bottles of their wine in Valore, unknown to the other shareholders. Months passed with no apparent financial return or popularity gain, and Íde was chastised for her irrational behaviour. Valens, now 9 years old, grew close with Meallán and Íde, and strived to learn everything he could about their property. After a heated debate over naming their winery and signature wine, the band settled on it’s local label, the “Askr Vineyards”, honoring Askr’s journey and dedication. 12 years later, Valens married a local farmer called Siv, who owned a neighbouring acreage. Combining their properties, Askr Vineyards expanded, followed by the birth of Étaín.

Foalhood:
Siv cared for Étaín tenderly, showering her in affection and telling her stories of when she was little and how Étaín would grow to lead the family band. Enrapt by their little bundle, she would steal away with Valens and Ét for hours, walking through the orchard and around the vineyard, pointing out how the grapevines grew, where the goats tried to get out, and all manner of things that perhaps Ét was too young to understand. When they weren’t taking walks around the property, and when she was a little older, Siv took her out to meet locals and other farm owners. On her fifth birthday, Ét was even allowed to sit and listen to family discussions of the sale and brewing of their wine. She relished being in the big room with all the grown ups, even when they got a bit loud. They were so entertaining! Sometimes she would interrupt with slow, tedious sentences, but they never got mad at her, and always listened in earnesty, nodding at her so that they could return to their conversation. Étaín used these opportunities more than once to get extra dessert or pretty things, they never seemed to realise what they were agreeing to. Well, Siv did, but she always shook her head with a shy smile and ushered Ét away once all the others had nodded at her and agreed to get her whatever she asked. It was never big, usually she just asked for flowers from Grandpa Meallán.
During her seventh year, Étaín witnessed the return of the merchant - not that she realised, really, the mare was just a stranger to the petite buckskin filly after all. The merchant was practically bustled inside by Meallán, and presented to the rest of the Rowan clan. She’d returned with an empty crate, and the money from the sale of their wine. To little Ét, it seemed as though she was practically begging for a partnership with the brewers. Her name was Junip, and she grew on the family, increasing her own sale capacity though the kindred partnership and sale of their “Ash Tree Wine”. As Ét grew, so did the relationship between Maellán and Junip. Eventually, they had two foals; Ave, and Quinn, each a year apart.

Teenage Years:
As a teenager, Étaín was asked to assist in the smaller jobs around the property, and assisted her parents in the construction of a chicken coop. She helped sow the fields where she could, and would collect the hen’s eggs in the morning and deliver them to the main house, to be used in cooking or to be sold during the day. Her father Valens and his mother Íde took it upon themselves to mentor Étaín after her 16th birthday, educating her on the upkeep and business side of the property. As her parents’ only child, it would fall to her to carry on the family business, and so she would have to be adept in business undertakings and knowledgeable in running the winery by herself.
Much of her teenage life was consumed by mentoring and the odd small job when she had time. Only when she was permitted, was she allowed to seek out nightlife. This agreement was made under the assumption that Étaín would utilise it to form bonds with the other residents and farmers of Opulence, which could be utilised in future years to form strong trade bonds and similar relations that would benefit the Winery. During this time, Ét began to attempt to manipulate or coerce local Opulence residents into doing favors for her, a talent which would prove useful in future years. After all, a good businessman had to be skilled with words and working the opposition into agreeing to or seeing the benefits of their proposition.
When leaving a bar late one night, Étaín noticed an equine quietly ushering equines around the back of the property, brands barely visible in the pale light of the moon. Although they made eye contact, the smuggler vanished without a word. Ignorant towards slave smuggling, the buckskin was perplexed at the secrecy of the horse; why would you be moving slaves in secret if they were your own? She attempted to locate this equine to no avail, satisfying her curiosity through conversation with the bartender of the establishment. After a great deal of coaxing the horse to disclose information on the horse and slaves she saw earlier that night, they informed her on the act of slave smuggling - smugglers escort willing slaves from the city of Valore, through tunnels under the city, to the countryside where from there they travel to Sedo in search of freedom. Questions whirled in her mind, of which the bartender refused to answer, and hurriedly escorted her to the door, closing the bar for the night. How did the slaves make such a long journey undetected? They must have contacts, surely, or they wouldn’t make it far. Did the initial smuggler make the journey with them, guiding them to the freedom, or were the slaves handed over to another smuggler or trusted equine? Returning home, she began to view the Rowan slaves in a new light. Did they enjoy their work, and their lives on the property? Would they be subjected to smuggling if they weren’t happy? These thoughts prompted Étaín to oversee the better treatment of the slaves, suggesting to Valens that they offer them flexible work hours and days off, should they desire them, along with more personal time to do as they pleased to keep them happy and content.

Young Adult - Current:
As a young adult, Étaín approached Íde, one of the last of Askr’s living children. She suggested they rename “Ash Tree Wine”, instead rebranding it “Përparim”. Íde agreed to the brand change, and suggested to Valens that Étaín discuss business details with him as an equal. After informing Étaín of Íde’s wishes, Étaín proposed that they increase export size, decreased the frequency of exports, and redesigned the wine labels to include the location of the brewery, whilst still honouring her great grandfather and founder, Askr. An intensive renovation of the brand and winery went underway, thanks to Íde’s educated decision, believing Étaín to be the horse the winery needed to keep pushing it further, closer to greatness. Étaín invested in an additional 2 acres of neighbouring land in 1682, and Íde passed away later that year, aged 68, apparently content with all she and her family had achieved. Ét purchased an additional 4 slaves to work on the vineyard, with 6 slaves now owned by the Rowan family. She prompted that the winery shift its source of manual labor to revolve around these slave ‘helpers’. Pioneering the change of the business, she justified it by noting the relieved pressure on physical work for herself and the family, which would allow them to spend more time managing and tracking their stock. Étaín continued to improve her relations with neighbouring farms and orchards, striving to build a thriving connection and partnership with other local businesses. She believed that strengthening bonds with other local families could reap the benefits of shared cultivation methods and yield secrets held by generations past. During this period, Étaín encountered another smuggler moving through a neighbouring field, empty save for long grasses. Now 25, she confronted them with more courage than previously, asking after their slaves; where they would be kept, if they’d be safe from harm or discovery. She offered their charges safety, should they return with more in the future, offering her winery as a safe resting point for those seeking freedom.
Étaín initiated the construction of a cottage on the recently purchased acreage, which was built alongside additional living quarters for the slaves. Situated near the rear of the property and backing onto sparse woodland, Étaín encouraged the Rowan slaves to take personal time off when they felt strained. To her father Valens, she explained it was closer to the vine rows and brewery, so that workers specialising in that area wouldn’t have to walk as far, and could therefore start work earlier. Both he and Siv wholeheartedly embraced her treatment of the slaves, agreeing that it would lead to better work ethic and happier slaves. The winery was officially passed from Valens to Étaín when she was 29, despite having acted as the primary business lead prior to this.
Two years later, Ét became interested in beekeeping after conversing with a neighbouring farm that kept bees for honey and beeswax. The keeper offered to teach her how to collect the honey without being stung, and how to harvest the beeswax. She commissions two hives from the keeper, and set them up near the main house, so that the bees could pollinate crops in the adjacent field. Coincidentally, the keeper also introduced her to Digend, however indirectly. Few months had passed since introducing the hives to the property, and the bees were flourishing in the bountiful environment, resulting in prolific production of honey and beeswax. During the early hours of the morning, Étaín stepped out of the main house, turning the corner to be confronted by an equine laden with saddlebags attempting to steal the hive’s honeycomb. Étaín rushed at them, attempting to knock them away from the hives. The bees were all too eager to assist. After their confrontation and avid beration from Étaín, the hedgewitch explained their intent to use the wax for balms, and the honey for medicinal use, such as burns. Prying along with a great deal of convincing through violence revealed these would not have been for personal use, and the hedgewitch confessed their alliance with cultists. They seemed all too eager to gush about Digend, the God of Chaos. Étaín was intrigued. She had never heard of this supposed ‘god’, as they had never been mentioned by her family. In exchange for beeswax, honey, and other supplies, the hedgewitch stayed in the cottage for a few days, to educate Étaín on Digend and the cultist ideals. Reflecting upon Digend as a god of change and unpredictability, the Eithne-based witch settled on the notion of conflict embodying the deity, excitedly directing Ét’s attention to how she had used physical means to achieve her own ways. She brushed off their comment, and sent them on their way in the late hours of the night. This, however, was not done before she had been taught how to construct an idol, and make sacrifices to the dark god.
Meallán’s children, Ave and Quinn, took up their father’s florist profession, purchasing a small acreage close to the Winery aged 23 and 22 years old, respectively. Meallán and his small family moved into this property, operating in collaboration with Askr Winery through the advertisement of Përparim Wine with the sale of their cut flowers and bouquets. The winery continued to flourish under Étaín’s management, with Ave confiding in Étaín about her smuggler profession. Seizing her opportunity, Ét reiterated how dangerous it could be for smuggled slaves to rest in Eithne, as former owners of the slaves would alert authorities that they had gone missing. Ét continued to persist with this point, drilling it into the mind of the young smuggler until Ave eventually caved, seeking out safety for a handful of her smuggled slaves in 1666. The slaves were given shelter and food in exchange for work on the winery. After a few months, most of the slaves left, continuing on their journey to escape Eithne and seek more permanent safety outside the clutches of Aodhian Chevaliers and their formers lives. Two of the slaves stayed for years, to Étaín’s delight - these slaves could help production efficiency, and in turn boost the growth of the Winery. But they would be caught and reclaimed surely, with their slave brands and unofficial shift in hands, which wasn’t particularly legal. They still technically ‘belonged’ to their former owners, and should they be discovered on her property, she could be accused of property theft and tried accordingly. Undeterred, Étaín began drafting ways to disguise their slave brand. She couldn’t simply give them coats; if Chevaliers did come knocking their garments would be removed and their brands exposed. Tattoos wouldn’t work either, one only needed to run their teke over the surface of their fur to feel the difference, the dragon sigil of bare skin contrasting the surrounding fur. The only thing that would alter this was another brand. Was that legal? Rebranding? After reading up on the laws of Aodh, Étaín unearthed nothing on laws against rebranding. Perhaps it hadn’t occurred to those in charge.. It didn’t matter to her, it didn’t state it was illegal and so she set about drafting brand designs that would reflect the winery, whilst concealing the dragon sigil. The two remaining smuggled slaves were addressed accordingly, Étaín suggesting she couldn’t protect them let alone guarantee their safety should they opt out of rebranding. The first slaves were officially rebranded in 1668, and continue to work on the winery to this day, accompanied by numerous other rebranded ‘helpers’.

Chapter I-V:
Largely isolated from the events in Valore, Étaín watched events unfold from afar. The attack on the crucible was unfortunate, yes, but life went on in Opulence. The birth of Lilith’s Kirin filly marked the return of Kirins to Hireath, however scarce the marvellous equines were. Although the Winery suffered a dip in income from sales following the events of the Briemen alliance, and the shaken confidence after the attack, Valorians’ quench was apparently insatiable, hungering for a return to normal life. No time was wasted, and profits boomed once more. After the death of the boy King Amadeus, Étaín travelled to Valore to familiarise herself with the culture and beauty of nobility and the higher class. Although her primary goal was to appeal to her main market, being the Nobility and upper class, the buckskin mare also visited ports close to the city to note the products being imported by ship. Here, she met the Talorian brewer, Otieno. Trade relations were established between the pair, with Étaín purchasing poisons and their accompanying antidotes from the hippocampus.

IN-GAME HISTORY

Chapter VI:
--

NOTES
Offers rebranding to disguise her `helpers`, should they prefer to be seen as an equal by others and not looked down upon as a slave. On the flipside, she also does this to attempt to prevent being accused of slave theft.
Brand design: Link
Rowan slaves are not rebranded, as they are considered property of the family and have no questionable history prior to changing hands or being purchased by the family.

Art and Étaín (c) Me, CrestedCreativity
Application template (c) Staborn admins

Description

ÉTAÍN"Velvet demon screaming louder than a shotgunDirty dreaming go and love yourself"

Tracker | Star Chart | Accessories | Moodboard | Playlist
3/02/18 - Written application complete

GENERAL INFORMATIONFull Name: Étaín Rowan
Pronunciation: AY-teen row-AHN
Nickname/s: Ét
Age: 42
      Birthday: Autumn 1659
      Hireath Zodiac: The Peryton - Sign of Cunning
Gender: Female
Orientation: Bisexual Aromantic
Breed: Unicorn (Psilomelane cabochon horns/hooves)
Height: 14.3hh
Phenotype: Buckskin

Voice Actor: TBA
Physical Description:
Fuller-bodied, with slender, surprisingly sturdy legs, Étaín's figure is overall similar to that of an Andalusian or Lipizzan, with emphasis placed on her large barrel and chest. Her profile is straight, with almond-shaped eyes and small ears, and a notably boxy muzzle. Her mane and tail are silky and volumous, which curl gently at the ends. She has light, wavy feathering along her feltlocks and cannon that she trims short, to avoid it dragging in the dirt when she’s working or moving around her acreage. Feathering also grows at the base of her tail and along the bottom of her jaw in a beard, however she clips both to appear more sleek and collected. Her hooves are cloven and relatively strong, not prone to chipping or cracking.
Active Accessories:
Gilded Bridle: Cream and gold fabric, with delicate silver chain cheekpieces and fine gold chain accents along the browband, framing a polished Carnelian accent.
Makeup: Yellow eyeshadow, black eyeliner and mascara.

Affiliation: Aodh
Rank: Commoner - winery owner
Rank Details: Étaín owns and runs a large winery situated along the outskirts of Opulence, recruiting assistance in the form of labor to manage the 5 hectare plot. The main export from her winery is Përparim Wine, first brewed by her family 3 generations ago. Red and rosé are the primary wines sold under this brand. Other items sold include honey, beeswax, flower cuttings, chicken eggs, goats cheese and milk, which are sold locally from the property. Exports must be requested in order to ship these over long distances. Ét completes small tasks around the vineyard, such as growing and preparing flower cuttings, where slaves and other helpers tend vineyards and produce wine, overseen by Ét. Her winery acts as a haven for smuggled slaves, where they may rest before continuing to move on, or may choose to stay and work for her permanently as her helpers. She associates with multiple Valorian smugglers, promising the safety of their charges.
Drive: To be successful.
Current Location: Opulence, Eithne

Religious Views: Reveres Ignacio. She was taught from a young age to respect and pray to Kaia, Alya, and Cascade to keep her crops and acreage healthy. She is curious about Digend and the lore surrounding them. Largely indifferent towards Argus, may argue they are the least 'useful' deity.
First Talent: Agriculturalist [LOCKED]
Second Talent: Improvisionist [LOCKED]
First Blessing: Memory Manipulation [LOCKED]
Second Blessing: Pain Infliction [LOCKED]
RELATIONSHIPS
Mate: N/a
Romantic Interest: ew
Offspring: --

Dam: Siv
Sire: Valens
Siblings: None
Extended Family:
      Great Grandsire: Askr
Great Granddam: Ilona
Grandsire: Gallus
Granddam: Íde

Other Relations:
    Slaves: [open]
    Helpers: [open]
    Trade Relations: Otieno
                                [TBA]

PERSONALITY
[Forgiving] [Intuitive] [Charismatic] [Ambitious] || [Explosive] [Deceptive] [Manipulative] [Fickle]

Forgiving and intuitive, she will often forgive to regain a sense of control over the individual, turning to focus on how she may triumph over them should they come forward to evoke confrontation again. She is constantly deliberating ways to improve upon old or current practices and ways of thinking in her business, striving for success for the family winery and Përparim brand. Her intuition feeds her ambition to brush shoulders with and be familiar with Aodhian nobility, constantly jockeying with her competitors.
Charismatic and ambitious, Étaín assumes a maternal role over her charges, regardless of slave or ‘helper’ title, and often writhes her way into their minds to vicariously achieve her goals. Her charisma is utilised to assist her in forming steadfast relations with both locals and foreigners, for trade or for skill and practice in farming. Repeatedly exploiting her skill with words and manner, Étaín regularly manipulates more single-minded equines to fulfill her desires. Her ambition scarcely exceeds her charisma, both equally matched to form an undisputable desire to succeed and climb higher in the eyes of others. She loathes feeling small, and any off-handed remark will spark her into a frenzied pursuit to surpass her previous social or business standing.
Explosive and deceptive, Ét will often evade questions she feels are too personal or confrontational, or may have the possibility to expose her. She builds a facade around her, potentially trying to appeal the higher class and nobility of Aodh, and crafting her psychological appearance with as much if not more care than her physical. If pushed too hard, she will lash out and often do so violently. Following this, she will typically ‘forgive’ the individual apologises, but wariness prevents her from forgetting it entirely, preferring to be prepared and have experience with how the individual acts should another issue arise.
Manipulative and fickle, she prefers to slip back after the first encounter, noting ways in which the equine in question could be manipulated and if their chances of refusing her proposition are slim. Combined with her intuitive and ambitious nature, she is constantly rewriting and repurposing information she gathers to use against competitors, hungering after the most efficient way of disarming opposing individuals. Quick to change her mind for the right reason, Étaín does so frequently after gathering new information on opposition or threats, whether businesses or individuals that may jeopardise her winery or more illegal, smuggler-aligned operation. Her changeability poses both advantages and disadvantages, wherein misinformation could easily become her downfall.

FAMILIAR
Name: | [PURCHASE NOTE]
Age:
Sex:
Species:
Personality:
Relationship with Étaín:
HISTORYTotal WC: 2 946

Brief Overview:
A third generation brewer, Ét was born and taught in the ways of cultivating grapevines and general produce, along with how to care for the crops and property. She learned how to get what she wanted as a child, and during her childhood her family partnered with a merchant to sell their wine in Valore. As a teenager she assisted in building small projects with her parents, and discovered the nightlight of Opulence, albeit small. During one of her outings she sighted her first smuggler, and was informed of their operations. As a young adult, she rebranded the wine to Përparim and continued to expand the property, purchasing four slaves to assist in manual labor. Encountering another smuggler she offered them future refuge for their slave charges, with the winery being officially handed over to her at age 29. Her first indirect encounter with cultists and their deity, Digend, occured when she was 31, and she was educated on worshipping the god by a hedgewitch. The first lot of smuggled slaves arrived 4 years later, during the year 1666, thanks to her young smuggler relative, Ave. Realising their potential to assist in the winery’s efficiency, she drafted a brand that would conceal the Aodhian dragon brand of slaves, and offered rebranding to those who wished to stay on the property permanently as ‘helpers’. She justified the process by assuring that it would keep them safe from Chevaliers and Slave Traders. Étaín continues to oversee and conduct all business associated with the Winery, and refuses to turn away smuggled slaves should they desire safety.

Family Background:
Askr, Étaín’s great grandfather, was a War Forged farmer from the Eastern Cliffs in Onea who travelled to Eithne to improve upon his agricultural skills at 28 years old. Once there, he ‘apprenticed’ under a farmer situated in Opulence for 5 years, focusing on growing and maximising fruit tree yield, along with root vegetables and various grains. He later garnered an interest in brewery after apprenticing under a vineyard owner, and learned their skills in brewery for 2 years. At 33 years old, Askr met Ilona, a noble lady visiting Opulence from Valore, who would become his wife that same year, much to the protests of her parents. Believing he had found his calling in brewery, he applied for Aodhian citizenship, purchasing a 5 acre plot of land while he awaited approval. The plot consisted of sparse woodland and soft, gently sloping plains, which assisted in efficient cultivation. A homestead was established, along with the first vineyards at the beginning of the new year. During this time, Askr’s application for citizenship was approved. The next year, twin girls were born to the pair, Breda and Íde. Both twins were raised and educated in brewery and how to cultivate the land to produce higher quality produce, and in turn, higher quality wine. 3 more foals followed the twins - Jarl, Katri, and Meallán - until at 53 years old, Askr purchased another 2 acres and retired from labor-intensive work. Íde, the eldest daughter, was wed at 23 years old in an arranged marriage to the son of Ilona’s former husband-to-be, at the command of Ilona’s noble parents. She had her first and only child, Valens, at 24 years old, while her husband Gallus, unaccustomed to the working lifestyle, purchased 2 slaves to help work the land, much to the disapproval of Askr.
Askr continued to advise and assist his children in the winery business until 75 years old, where he died in his sleep. Ilona graciously ruled and advised the growing winery until she died 20 years later, aged 83. After her death, Íde and Breda assumed equal head positions, taking charge of the winery. Unmarried and without a child, Breda engaged in much of the vineyard’s labor alongside Jarl, Katri and the two slaves. Meallán, largely uninterested in brewer life, quickly took up the role of in-house florist, growing and arranging bouquets of cut flowers to sell in local markets. This prompted discussion between the siblings, talk of expanding stock and produce overtaking the household. Encouraged by Meallán and Jarl, who collaboratively tended the continually growing businesses’ finances, the family invested in an additional 2 acres. These were planted with fruit orchards and numerous vine rows, a small corner fenced off to house goats, which they would use for milk. During this turbulent time of expansion, exporting wine became another topical issue. Only sold locally, and convinced their winery potential was unfulfilled, Íde bargained with a merchant to sell 30 bottles of their wine in Valore, unknown to the other shareholders. Months passed with no apparent financial return or popularity gain, and Íde was chastised for her irrational behaviour. Valens, now 9 years old, grew close with Meallán and Íde, and strived to learn everything he could about their property. After a heated debate over naming their winery and signature wine, the band settled on it’s local label, the “Askr Vineyards”, honoring Askr’s journey and dedication. 12 years later, Valens married a local farmer called Siv, who owned a neighbouring acreage. Combining their properties, Askr Vineyards expanded, followed by the birth of Étaín.

Foalhood:
Siv cared for Étaín tenderly, showering her in affection and telling her stories of when she was little and how Étaín would grow to lead the family band. Enrapt by their little bundle, she would steal away with Valens and Ét for hours, walking through the orchard and around the vineyard, pointing out how the grapevines grew, where the goats tried to get out, and all manner of things that perhaps Ét was too young to understand. When they weren’t taking walks around the property, and when she was a little older, Siv took her out to meet locals and other farm owners. On her fifth birthday, Ét was even allowed to sit and listen to family discussions of the sale and brewing of their wine. She relished being in the big room with all the grown ups, even when they got a bit loud. They were so entertaining! Sometimes she would interrupt with slow, tedious sentences, but they never got mad at her, and always listened in earnesty, nodding at her so that they could return to their conversation. Étaín used these opportunities more than once to get extra dessert or pretty things, they never seemed to realise what they were agreeing to. Well, Siv did, but she always shook her head with a shy smile and ushered Ét away once all the others had nodded at her and agreed to get her whatever she asked. It was never big, usually she just asked for flowers from Grandpa Meallán.
During her seventh year, Étaín witnessed the return of the merchant - not that she realised, really, the mare was just a stranger to the petite buckskin filly after all. The merchant was practically bustled inside by Meallán, and presented to the rest of the Rowan clan. She’d returned with an empty crate, and the money from the sale of their wine. To little Ét, it seemed as though she was practically begging for a partnership with the brewers. Her name was Junip, and she grew on the family, increasing her own sale capacity though the kindred partnership and sale of their “Ash Tree Wine”. As Ét grew, so did the relationship between Maellán and Junip. Eventually, they had two foals; Ave, and Quinn, each a year apart.

Teenage Years:
As a teenager, Étaín was asked to assist in the smaller jobs around the property, and assisted her parents in the construction of a chicken coop. She helped sow the fields where she could, and would collect the hen’s eggs in the morning and deliver them to the main house, to be used in cooking or to be sold during the day. Her father Valens and his mother Íde took it upon themselves to mentor Étaín after her 16th birthday, educating her on the upkeep and business side of the property. As her parents’ only child, it would fall to her to carry on the family business, and so she would have to be adept in business undertakings and knowledgeable in running the winery by herself.
Much of her teenage life was consumed by mentoring and the odd small job when she had time. Only when she was permitted, was she allowed to seek out nightlife. This agreement was made under the assumption that Étaín would utilise it to form bonds with the other residents and farmers of Opulence, which could be utilised in future years to form strong trade bonds and similar relations that would benefit the Winery. During this time, Ét began to attempt to manipulate or coerce local Opulence residents into doing favors for her, a talent which would prove useful in future years. After all, a good businessman had to be skilled with words and working the opposition into agreeing to or seeing the benefits of their proposition.
When leaving a bar late one night, Étaín noticed an equine quietly ushering equines around the back of the property, brands barely visible in the pale light of the moon. Although they made eye contact, the smuggler vanished without a word. Ignorant towards slave smuggling, the buckskin was perplexed at the secrecy of the horse; why would you be moving slaves in secret if they were your own? She attempted to locate this equine to no avail, satisfying her curiosity through conversation with the bartender of the establishment. After a great deal of coaxing the horse to disclose information on the horse and slaves she saw earlier that night, they informed her on the act of slave smuggling - smugglers escort willing slaves from the city of Valore, through tunnels under the city, to the countryside where from there they travel to Sedo in search of freedom. Questions whirled in her mind, of which the bartender refused to answer, and hurriedly escorted her to the door, closing the bar for the night. How did the slaves make such a long journey undetected? They must have contacts, surely, or they wouldn’t make it far. Did the initial smuggler make the journey with them, guiding them to the freedom, or were the slaves handed over to another smuggler or trusted equine? Returning home, she began to view the Rowan slaves in a new light. Did they enjoy their work, and their lives on the property? Would they be subjected to smuggling if they weren’t happy? These thoughts prompted Étaín to oversee the better treatment of the slaves, suggesting to Valens that they offer them flexible work hours and days off, should they desire them, along with more personal time to do as they pleased to keep them happy and content.

Young Adult - Current:
As a young adult, Étaín approached Íde, one of the last of Askr’s living children. She suggested they rename “Ash Tree Wine”, instead rebranding it “Përparim”. Íde agreed to the brand change, and suggested to Valens that Étaín discuss business details with him as an equal. After informing Étaín of Íde’s wishes, Étaín proposed that they increase export size, decreased the frequency of exports, and redesigned the wine labels to include the location of the brewery, whilst still honouring her great grandfather and founder, Askr. An intensive renovation of the brand and winery went underway, thanks to Íde’s educated decision, believing Étaín to be the horse the winery needed to keep pushing it further, closer to greatness. Étaín invested in an additional 2 acres of neighbouring land in 1682, and Íde passed away later that year, aged 68, apparently content with all she and her family had achieved. Ét purchased an additional 4 slaves to work on the vineyard, with 6 slaves now owned by the Rowan family. She prompted that the winery shift its source of manual labor to revolve around these slave ‘helpers’. Pioneering the change of the business, she justified it by noting the relieved pressure on physical work for herself and the family, which would allow them to spend more time managing and tracking their stock. Étaín continued to improve her relations with neighbouring farms and orchards, striving to build a thriving connection and partnership with other local businesses. She believed that strengthening bonds with other local families could reap the benefits of shared cultivation methods and yield secrets held by generations past. During this period, Étaín encountered another smuggler moving through a neighbouring field, empty save for long grasses. Now 25, she confronted them with more courage than previously, asking after their slaves; where they would be kept, if they’d be safe from harm or discovery. She offered their charges safety, should they return with more in the future, offering her winery as a safe resting point for those seeking freedom.
Étaín initiated the construction of a cottage on the recently purchased acreage, which was built alongside additional living quarters for the slaves. Situated near the rear of the property and backing onto sparse woodland, Étaín encouraged the Rowan slaves to take personal time off when they felt strained. To her father Valens, she explained it was closer to the vine rows and brewery, so that workers specialising in that area wouldn’t have to walk as far, and could therefore start work earlier. Both he and Siv wholeheartedly embraced her treatment of the slaves, agreeing that it would lead to better work ethic and happier slaves. The winery was officially passed from Valens to Étaín when she was 29, despite having acted as the primary business lead prior to this.
Two years later, Ét became interested in beekeeping after conversing with a neighbouring farm that kept bees for honey and beeswax. The keeper offered to teach her how to collect the honey without being stung, and how to harvest the beeswax. She commissions two hives from the keeper, and set them up near the main house, so that the bees could pollinate crops in the adjacent field. Coincidentally, the keeper also introduced her to Digend, however indirectly. Few months had passed since introducing the hives to the property, and the bees were flourishing in the bountiful environment, resulting in prolific production of honey and beeswax. During the early hours of the morning, Étaín stepped out of the main house, turning the corner to be confronted by an equine laden with saddlebags attempting to steal the hive’s honeycomb. Étaín rushed at them, attempting to knock them away from the hives. The bees were all too eager to assist. After their confrontation and avid beration from Étaín, the hedgewitch explained their intent to use the wax for balms, and the honey for medicinal use, such as burns. Prying along with a great deal of convincing through violence revealed these would not have been for personal use, and the hedgewitch confessed their alliance with cultists. They seemed all too eager to gush about Digend, the God of Chaos. Étaín was intrigued. She had never heard of this supposed ‘god’, as they had never been mentioned by her family. In exchange for beeswax, honey, and other supplies, the hedgewitch stayed in the cottage for a few days, to educate Étaín on Digend and the cultist ideals. Reflecting upon Digend as a god of change and unpredictability, the Eithne-based witch settled on the notion of conflict embodying the deity, excitedly directing Ét’s attention to how she had used physical means to achieve her own ways. She brushed off their comment, and sent them on their way in the late hours of the night. This, however, was not done before she had been taught how to construct an idol, and make sacrifices to the dark god.
Meallán’s children, Ave and Quinn, took up their father’s florist profession, purchasing a small acreage close to the Winery aged 23 and 22 years old, respectively. Meallán and his small family moved into this property, operating in collaboration with Askr Winery through the advertisement of Përparim Wine with the sale of their cut flowers and bouquets. The winery continued to flourish under Étaín’s management, with Ave confiding in Étaín about her smuggler profession. Seizing her opportunity, Ét reiterated how dangerous it could be for smuggled slaves to rest in Eithne, as former owners of the slaves would alert authorities that they had gone missing. Ét continued to persist with this point, drilling it into the mind of the young smuggler until Ave eventually caved, seeking out safety for a handful of her smuggled slaves in 1666. The slaves were given shelter and food in exchange for work on the winery. After a few months, most of the slaves left, continuing on their journey to escape Eithne and seek more permanent safety outside the clutches of Aodhian Chevaliers and their formers lives. Two of the slaves stayed for years, to Étaín’s delight - these slaves could help production efficiency, and in turn boost the growth of the Winery. But they would be caught and reclaimed surely, with their slave brands and unofficial shift in hands, which wasn’t particularly legal. They still technically ‘belonged’ to their former owners, and should they be discovered on her property, she could be accused of property theft and tried accordingly. Undeterred, Étaín began drafting ways to disguise their slave brand. She couldn’t simply give them coats; if Chevaliers did come knocking their garments would be removed and their brands exposed. Tattoos wouldn’t work either, one only needed to run their teke over the surface of their fur to feel the difference, the dragon sigil of bare skin contrasting the surrounding fur. The only thing that would alter this was another brand. Was that legal? Rebranding? After reading up on the laws of Aodh, Étaín unearthed nothing on laws against rebranding. Perhaps it hadn’t occurred to those in charge.. It didn’t matter to her, it didn’t state it was illegal and so she set about drafting brand designs that would reflect the winery, whilst concealing the dragon sigil. The two remaining smuggled slaves were addressed accordingly, Étaín suggesting she couldn’t protect them let alone guarantee their safety should they opt out of rebranding. The first slaves were officially rebranded in 1668, and continue to work on the winery to this day, accompanied by numerous other rebranded ‘helpers’.

Chapter I-V:
Largely isolated from the events in Valore, Étaín watched events unfold from afar. The attack on the crucible was unfortunate, yes, but life went on in Opulence. The birth of Lilith’s Kirin filly marked the return of Kirins to Hireath, however scarce the marvellous equines were. Although the Winery suffered a dip in income from sales following the events of the Briemen alliance, and the shaken confidence after the attack, Valorians’ quench was apparently insatiable, hungering for a return to normal life. No time was wasted, and profits boomed once more. After the death of the boy King Amadeus, Étaín travelled to Valore to familiarise herself with the culture and beauty of nobility and the higher class. Although her primary goal was to appeal to her main market, being the Nobility and upper class, the buckskin mare also visited ports close to the city to note the products being imported by ship. Here, she met the Talorian brewer, Otieno. Trade relations were established between the pair, with Étaín purchasing poisons and their accompanying antidotes from the hippocampus.

IN-GAME HISTORY

Chapter VI:
--

NOTES
Offers rebranding to disguise her `helpers`, should they prefer to be seen as an equal by others and not looked down upon as a slave. On the flipside, she also does this to attempt to prevent being accused of slave theft.
Brand design: Link
Rowan slaves are not rebranded, as they are considered property of the family and have no questionable history prior to changing hands or being purchased by the family.

Art and Étaín (c) Me, CrestedCreativity
Application template (c) Staborn admins