Lady Merigold

Lady Kyviv Liora Merigold

Kyviv Merigold's life began in the midst of the crime-ridden streets of Port Demoli, a vast city located on the border of Nur and Nelanor. Port Demoli was known for its corrupt politicians who held sway over the city. Unfortunately, Kyviv's mother passed away when she was young, leaving her to fend for herself in the harsh environment. However, her fortunes changed when she was taken in by a priest belonging to a new faith that was beginning to gain traction in the city. Under the care of the priest, Kyviv found solace and salvation. She spent her formative years in the temple, developing an unwavering devotion to the All-Seer, the deity worshipped by this new faith. The All-Seer was revered as an all-knowing god, capable of seeing through falsehoods, illusions, and even glimpsing into the future. The concept of absolute truth and the eradication of deceit deeply resonated with Kyviv, who embraced the teachings wholeheartedly.
As Kyviv's faith grew, so did her affinity for divine powers. Her profound devotion granted her the ability to perform healing magic, which she believed was bestowed upon her by the All-Seer to aid his followers. Consequently, she became a cleric of the All-Seer, dedicating herself to the church's charitable work of providing healing to the sick and needy.
Over time, Kyviv's commitment to her god and the church only intensified. At the age of 18, she underwent a rare and significant ritual that very few devoted members of the church dared to undertake. She made the sacrificial choice to blind herself, trusting in the All-Seer's sight rather than her own eyes to guide her path in life.
Kyviv's act of martyrdom elevated her to a position of great influence within the All-Seeing Church. The church preached vehemently against lies, illusions, and corruption, which had deeply entrenched itself in Port Demoli. Aware of the deceitful practices of the city's politicians and merchants, the church could no longer stand idle. With the support of the populace, whom the church had been aiding through charity work, the All-Seeing Church initiated a revolt against the city's rulers.

The All-Seeing Church's relentless pursuit of truth and justice gradually transformed Port Demoli into a beacon of its former self, cleansed of corruption and deception. The church's influence spread beyond the city, finding acceptance in other regions of Nelanor and the neighboring country of United Leona. As the religion gained popularity, it began to coexist with the worship of the traditional elven pantheon known as The Va'lis.
With the religion's rapid expansion, the United Leona Council recognized the importance of Lady Merigold's insights and invited her to join the council. While some suspect that this appointment was merely a ploy to monitor the church's more extreme practices, Lady Merigold remains steadfast in her commitment to rooting out corruption and lies wherever they may be found, using any means necessary, all in the name of glorifying the All-Seer.

Physical Description

General Physical Condition

Lady Kyviv Merigold stands with an undeniable majesty that captures the attention of those around her. Her skin, fair and seemingly untouched by the sun, stands in contrast to her shimmering blonde hair. This hair, long and lustrous, is intricately braided into two large plaits that frame her face and rest on either side of her chest, signifying her regality and connection to ancient traditions.
The most captivating feature, however, is the absence of her eyes. Her unscarred eyelids remain forever closed, a voluntary sacrifice made in devotion to the All-Seer. Draped around her neck, an ornate amulet bearing the emblem of the All-Seer glows with a subtle divine luminescence.
Her attire consists of immaculate white robes, untouched by worldly impurities. These robes are graced with intricate gold embroidery that tells tales of the All-Seer's revelations and the church's victories against deceit and corruption. Secured around her waist by a belt interwoven with strands of silver and gold is her "Mace of Truth", a formidable weapon with the power to compel honesty from those it touches.
Despite the absence of sight, Lady Merigold's movements are deliberate and graceful. Her posture and demeanor emanate a calming serenity, masking the formidable power she wields. But for those who have witnessed her methods firsthand, her presence also serves as a stern reminder of her unwavering commitment to the truth and the lengths she will traverse in its pursuit.

Mental characteristics

Personal history

• Early Years

Kyviv Liora Merigold's beginnings were far from the influence and power she would later command. Born in the labyrinthine alleys of Port Demoli, a sprawling city notorious for its webs of deceit and corruption, she witnessed the cruel dance of treachery from a tender age. The city sat precariously on the borders of Nur and Nelanor, serving as a melting pot of politics, trade, and power games.
Kyviv's mother was a seamstress, crafting garments for the elite while struggling to keep her daughter sheltered from the city's vices. But fate would not be kind; a sudden illness took her mother away, leaving a young Kyviv orphaned amidst the very shadows she was shielded from.

• Finding the Light

Orphaned and vulnerable, Kyviv's prospects were bleak. But as the saying goes, "In the darkest hours, light shines the brightest." A compassionate priest of a burgeoning faith took her under his wing. The faith was built around the worship of the All-Seer, an omnipotent deity believed to peer through the veils of illusion, deceit, and even time itself.
The temple became her sanctuary. Here, she was introduced to the concepts of absolute truth, justice, and the power of divine sight. With every scripture she read and every prayer she whispered, Kyviv felt a burgeoning connection with the All-Seer.

• The Divine Pact

Her devotion did not go unnoticed. As she matured, the All-Seer blessed her with divine abilities, particularly the power of healing. This gift solidified her role as a cleric, and she started aiding the sick and wounded, mending not just physical wounds but also the spiritual voids of those who sought her.
Yet, with power came challenges. At 18, driven by her boundless faith and a desire to see the world only through the All-Seer's eyes, she took a daunting decision. In a sacred ritual, Kyviv blinded herself, forever forsaking her worldly vision to wholly embrace the All-Seer's sight.

• Rise to Influence

This act of sacrifice resonated deeply within the church's hierarchy and its followers. She wasn't just a cleric now; she became a symbol of unwavering faith. With her divine sight, she played a pivotal role in the church's efforts to cleanse Port Demoli of its entrenched corruption.
It was during this crusade against corruption that Kyviv's healing took on a dual purpose. Using her gifts, she would mend those she interrogated after extracting truths, ensuring they were physically unharmed but mentally exposed.

• The World Beyond

The transformation of Port Demoli was just the beginning. The church's influence, under Lady Merigold's guidance, spread like wildfire. Regions of Nelanor embraced the All-Seer, as did the neighboring nation of United Leona. The latter, recognizing the sway Lady Merigold held, invited her to be part of its council.
While some saw this as a strategic move to monitor the church's zeal, Lady Merigold took it as an opportunity to further her deity's reach, ensuring a world where the light of truth would always overshadow the dark corridors of deceit.
To this day, Lady Kyviv Liora Merigold remains a beacon of hope for many and a figure of dread for those who lurk in the shadows of falsehood. Her journey from an orphaned child to the powerful Lady of Truth is a testament to the indomitable spirit of faith, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of a higher calling.

Education

• Early Education

Street Wisdom: Before her life took a divine turn, the alleys and markets of Port Demoli were Kyviv's initial classrooms. She learned the art of reading people, understanding the undercurrents of a conversation, and the unspoken language of body gestures. This keen sense of observation would serve her well in later years.

Basic Literacy: Her mother, ever aware of the importance of education, taught young Kyviv to read and write using scraps of paper and salvaged books. These rudimentary lessons became the foundation upon which Kyviv built her vast knowledge in later years.

• Temple Schooling

The Scriptures of the All-Seer: Once under the protection of the temple, Kyviv dedicated herself to studying the sacred scriptures. These texts detailed the teachings, prophecies, and doctrines of the All-Seer.

Ritualistic Studies: She was trained in the various rituals of the faith, learning not just the procedures but also the deeper symbolism and meanings behind each act.

Philosophy and Theology: As a rising figure in the church, Kyviv was mentored by senior priests. She dove deep into the philosophies that underpinned the faith, engaging in debates, discussions, and introspective studies.

Divine Healing Arts: Recognizing her innate abilities, the temple's elder clerics took it upon themselves to instruct Kyviv in the advanced techniques of divine healing, teaching her the nuances of channeling the All-Seer's energy.

• Advanced Studies

Interfaith Dialogues: With the expanding influence of the All-Seeing Church, Kyviv took it upon herself to learn about other major religions, especially The Va'lis, the traditional elven pantheon. Understanding their beliefs allowed her to find common ground and foster harmony.

Diplomacy and Statecraft: Upon her ascension to the United Leona Council, Kyviv underwent a crash course in the intricacies of governance, diplomacy, and statecraft. She learned to navigate the delicate balance of power, the art of negotiation, and the strategies of politics.

- Esoteric Magic: Beyond the standard divine magic of clerics, Kyviv delved into esoteric and ancient magical practices, enhancing her already formidable abilities and broadening her understanding of the divine.
Throughout her life, Lady Kyviv Liora Merigold's education was a blend of worldly knowledge, divine teachings, and practical experience. The synergistic combination of street-smarts, profound theological understanding, and high-level diplomatic acumen made her a formidable figure in both spiritual and secular circles.

Intellectual Characteristics

1. Analytical Thinker: Kyviv's early life on the streets of Port Demoli honed her ability to quickly assess situations. She's able to deconstruct complex problems, see patterns, and devise strategic solutions, ensuring her decisions are well-informed and pragmatic.
2. Empathetic Intuition: Her profound connection with the All-Seer and her innate empathy allow her to sense the emotions and motives of those around her. This deep understanding aids her in negotiations, making her a formidable diplomat.
3. Philosophical Depth: A significant part of her education was rooted in theology and philosophy. Kyviv often approaches problems by considering the deeper, underlying principles. She's known to ponder the moral and ethical implications of her actions and decisions.
4. Linguistic Fluency: Kyviv's role in the expanding influence of the All-Seeing Church and her seat on the United Leona Council exposed her to multiple cultures and languages. Her ability to communicate eloquently in various tongues enhances her diplomatic efforts.
5. Memory Retention: Lady Merigold possesses an almost eidetic memory. She recalls scripture, treaties, and past events with impressive accuracy, a trait that often gives her an advantage in discussions and debates.
6. Rational Skepticism: Despite her deep faith, Kyviv is not one to accept things at face value. She questions, probes, and seeks evidence. This skepticism, rooted in her disdain for deceit, ensures that she isn't easily fooled or misled.
7. Holistic Vision: Kyviv rarely sees issues in isolation. She has the ability to connect seemingly unrelated events, understanding the broader context. This holistic perspective helps her anticipate future challenges and opportunities.
8. Adaptability: The myriad challenges she's faced, from the streets of Port Demoli to the council chambers of United Leona, have taught her the importance of adaptability. She's open to new ideas and can adjust her strategies based on evolving situations.
9. Ethical Rigor: Driven by her faith and personal experiences, Kyviv places great emphasis on ethics. She constantly evaluates her actions and the actions of those around her against a rigorous moral framework.
10. Curiosity: Even with her vast knowledge and experience, Lady Merigold possesses a genuine curiosity. She believes in lifelong learning and often seeks knowledge outside her immediate realm of expertise.

Morality & Philosophy

1. Pursuit of Truth Above All: The core tenet of Lady Merigold's philosophy is an unyielding commitment to truth. To her, truth is the ultimate virtue, and any deviation from it, whether a white lie or a grave deceit, is a moral failing. This absolute stance stems from her unwavering devotion to the All-Seer and her early life experiences in Port Demoli.
2. End Justifies the Means: While she holds truth in the highest regard, her methods to extract or uphold it can be controversial. In her view, if a particular action, even if harsh or extreme, can lead to a greater truth or the betterment of society, it is justified.
3. Duty to the Greater Good: Kyviv believes in serving the collective good. Individual sufferings or sacrifices are secondary if they lead to the greater welfare of the masses. This utilitarian approach often places her at odds with those who emphasize individual rights.
4. Divine Destiny: Lady Merigold holds a firm belief that everyone has a predetermined path set by the All-Seer. It's one's moral duty to discover and follow this divine destiny, ensuring alignment with the grand design of the universe.
5. Moral Responsibility of Power: With her influential position in both the church and political circles, Kyviv believes that those with power have a heightened moral responsibility. They must act with integrity, always considering the ramifications of their decisions on the masses.
6. Sanctity of Life: While she can be ruthless in her methods, Kyviv deeply respects life. She views her healing abilities as a divine gift and considers it her moral duty to alleviate suffering when she can.
7. Rehabilitation Over Retribution: Despite her sometimes-harsh methods of extracting truth, she believes in the potential for redemption. Those who stray from the path of honesty should be given chances to repent and reform.
8. Egalitarianism: Lady Merigold's early life as an orphan in the streets instilled in her a belief in equality. She holds that every individual, regardless of their background, has inherent worth and should be treated with respect and fairness.
9. Stewardship of Knowledge: Kyviv sees knowledge as a sacred trust. It's a tool for enlightenment and should be shared and preserved. However, she also believes in the responsible dissemination of knowledge, wary of the chaos that half-truths or misconceptions can create.
10. Inherent Duality of Existence: While she seeks pure truth, Kyviv acknowledges the inherent dualities of existence: light and dark, truth and deceit, joy and sorrow. She believes in navigating these dualities with wisdom, understanding that life isn't always black and white.
Kyviv's moral compass and philosophical beliefs have been shaped by a confluence of her personal experiences, divine revelations, and the weighty responsibilities she carries. While she's revered by many for her unwavering principles, her strict adherence to her beliefs often places her in moral dilemmas, making her journey a complex tapestry of choices and consequences.

Personality Characteristics

Motivation

At the heart of Lady Kyviv Merigold's actions lies a profound and unwavering commitment to truth, shaped by her tumultuous past. Having witnessed the debilitating effects of deceit, corruption, and falsehood in her early years in Port Demoli, she developed a resolute disdain for dishonesty in all its forms. Her childhood experiences in the crime-ridden streets made her intimately aware of how lies could create suffering and disarray in society.
Her transformative encounter with the teachings of the All-Seer, a deity embodying absolute truth, resonated deeply with her. The deity's ability to see through falsehoods and peer into the future offered a stark contrast to the deceptive world she had known. This divine relationship gave her a clear purpose and path: to eradicate deceit and champion truth, no matter the cost.
As she rose through the ranks of the All-Seeing Church, her motivation grew stronger. Witnessing the church's charitable efforts reaffirmed her belief in the power of honesty and kindness. Her decision to blind herself was not just a sacrifice but a testament to her unwavering faith, showcasing her willingness to rely entirely on the All-Seer's sight rather than be possibly deceived by her own human eyes.
The revolt against Port Demoli's corrupt rulers marked a turning point. It wasn't just about overthrowing oppressors; it was a battle against the deeply rooted culture of deceit that plagued her city. Her use of healing magic to extract the truth, though dark and extreme, stemmed from her belief in the sanctity of truth. To her, the mental scars left on the corrupt were a necessary price for a society built on honesty.
As the All-Seeing Church's influence grew and spread, so did Kyviv's ambition to create a world free of lies. Her seat on the United Leona Council provides a platform for her to root out deceit on an even grander scale.
However, underlying all her actions is a genuine desire to protect and uplift the vulnerable, ensuring they never suffer the pains she endured in her youth. While her methods are often controversial, she believes she's forging a world where honesty prevails, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.

Virtues & Personality perks

• Virtues

1. Unwavering Integrity: Lady Merigold's commitment to truth is unwavering. She values honesty above all else and expects the same from those around her.
2. Charitable Heart: Despite her stern exterior, Kyviv has a genuine desire to help the needy. Her dedication to the church's charitable efforts reflects her compassionate side.
3. Strong Leadership: With her clear vision and purpose, Lady Merigold possesses the ability to inspire and lead, guiding her followers towards a more honest and just society.
4. Unyielding Faith: Her belief in the All-Seer is unshakable. This profound faith gives her strength and purpose, even in the face of adversity.
5. Empathy: Having grown up in a harsh environment, Kyviv can empathize with the downtrodden and oppressed, which drives her desire to root out corruption and deceit.

• Perks

1. Divine Sight: Blessed by the All-Seer, Lady Merigold possesses an innate ability to see through deceptions, making it near impossible to lie to her.
2. Healing Abilities: Her divine connection allows her to heal physical wounds, making her a valuable asset in times of crisis.
3. Influence: As a leading figure in the All-Seeing Church, Kyviv has significant influence, not just within Port Demoli, but also in surrounding regions.
4. Skilled Orator: With her eloquent speech and powerful presence, she can sway the masses, either rallying them to a cause or calming a restless crowd.
5. Divine Protection: The All-Seer's favor shields her from many forms of harm, both physical and magical.
6. Insightful: Kyviv's deep understanding of human nature allows her to read people effectively, often predicting their actions or motives before they themselves might be fully aware.
7. Resourceful: With her extensive network within the church and the council, she can call upon a wealth of resources and allies when needed.

Alignment

Lawful Neutral

Current Location

The City of Edoran

Age

35

Birthplace

Port Demoli, Nelanor

Sex

Female

Gender

Woman

Presentation

Feminine

Eyes

N/A

Hair

Blond

Skin Tone/Pigmentation

Pale white

Height

5'9

Quotes & Catchphrases

• "In the clarity of truth, we find our purpose; in its pursuit, we find our salvation." -
• "To bear witness to falsehood is to be complicit in its tyranny. Rise against it, and let honesty be your shield."
• "Blinded by devotion, I see clearer than ever. For in the All-Seer's light, shadows of deceit cannot linger."

• "There is a beauty in sacrifice, especially when it paves the path to a world unmarred by lies."

• "Sometimes, the most comforting words are those left unspoken, especially when the truth can be... inconvenient."

Belief/Deity

The All-Seer

Aligned Organization

The All-Seeing Church

Other Affiliations

• United Eos Council