Papillon Delacroix
Upon meeting this Elezen, one might immediately notice his warm, calm, and well-mannered (most of the time) demeanor. Eager to help (and eager to find work), the former Temple Knight is known by many for malms around. The man refers to himself by his surname as he is often teased by his cohorts for his given name. The adventurer spends his time between expeditions drinking, sharing tales of his exploits, and courting the fairer sex (or attempting to).However, beyond the surface of small talk and pleasantries, Papillon's inner world is rich with a vibrant past and a hopeful future. Those who have grown close with the Ishgardian may come to learn his histories and even become apart of them. However, hearsay is aplenty and not everything is as it seems...
Note: This carrd is currently undergoing a remodel and a slight overhaul. Papillon's present story arcs are all complete and will be added to his Afterstory as they are typed up. Some information might be out of date. Please feel free to approach me in game with any comments or questions that you might still have.
Backstory
Early Life
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Son of Évrard and Rosalie Delacroix, Papillon grew up in the Foundation of Ishgard. Even though his father was a knight and his mother the estranged daughter of merchant class parents, Papillon was able to carve a moderately successful path for himself.As a child, Delacroix attended early schooling and acquired the orthodox teachings that were sanctioned by the Holy See. Like other children, he learned by the Enchiridion and kept the faith in Halone the Fury from an early age. Still, the Ishgardian recalls spending much of his youthful leisure undermining his father's wishes including staying out late past curfew in order to go stargazing. From a very young age, his interest in sciences and astrology earned him admonishment while his father pushed him to follow his own footsteps as a knight, instead.However, much to his father's disdain, his mother supported her only son's aspirations and desired for him to follow only what made him happy. She gifted him books and maps of the stars, and various astrological instruments that, when discovered by her husband, were promptly burned or destroyed. As a result of their differences and less than happy marriage, the home was always a place of contention for Delacroix. Often, he escaped in the late evenings, wandering the outdoors in the city and through the woodland hills of greater Coerthas, his only source of solace away from his turbulent home life.
Tribulations
While he continued to excel in his schooling and build his reputation in Ishgardian society into adolescence, the tensions of war and anxieties over heresy continued to bleed into everyday life in the city proper. The home increasingly became the site of arguing and violence. His father fell into alcoholism, drinking heavily in the evenings he was not out on his post. His mother, young when she married his father, still maintained the home and looked after her son. However, she increasingly entertained strange company when his father was away. When Delacroix noticed his mother was mingling with other Ishgardians suspected of heresy, he pretended not to know.The visitations became more frequent and his mother attended more outings to the point that even his father became suspicious. Accused of being an adulterer, the arguments escalated to beatings while Papillon hid away. She concealed scrapes and bruises, made excuses, and always wore a smile when she noticed worry on her son's face. Still, she was not deterred from her illicit meetings.One evening when Delacroix returned home late, he found his mother cold on the kitchen floor. His father was nowhere to be seen. Investigation concluded that her death was a suicide by her husband's accounts of hysteria and the possibility demonic forces of heretical curses being responsible for a lapse in her sanity. However, Delacroix has always had reason to believe his father guilty--either by his own hand or indirectly through years of torture and abuse that he, himself, was witness.After the untimely death of his mother, the young Ishgardian managed to escape through even harder dedication, valor, and diligence in his training. Eventually through his devotion to Ishgard and his father's connections, his candidacy for Temple Knight apprenticeship was finally considered as a teenager. Even for Delacroix, this momentous milestone did not feel like a celebratory occasion.
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Knighthood
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From the time he was 16, Delacroix began a squire apprenticeship and was knighted by the archbishop at the age of 22. As a knight, his duties were fairly simple and mostly included maintaining peace and order in Ishgard city proper. General surveillance, investigations, and oversight in the city's day to day affairs ranked among his responsibilities over the duration of his service. However, just as he was struggling to become comfortable with his new place in Ishgardian society, that is when he met another fellow knight of the Holy See, Lisette Beaulieu.It was only a year after he graduated from his squireship when the elezen had become painfully plagued with boredom. Work was too busy to have satisfying leisure and was too dull to sincerely hold his interest. Occasionally, he would sneak out of the city in search of respite. Wide open skies and towering spruce trees casting shadows under the moonlight did much to ease his restlessness. That was, until he was eventually caught and reprimanded for abandoning his duties. Still, that did not keep the knight from finding other mischief to help pass the time.This drew the attention of his much beloved Lisette who, for better or for worse, shared this ennui with Papillon. Unlike he, she was not pushed into knighthood by her parents. Rather, she became one through her own volition to avoid the usual trappings for women in Ishgardian society--as well as to prove to herself (and everyone else) that she could by way of showing off her prowess in the grand tourney. Taken by her kindness, her strength, and her appetite for life, the two of them became fast friends and an even more eccentric duo as their time together endured.The two of them voluntarily took on any opportunity they could to escape the monotony of city life. Privately scoffing at the lifestyles of the high-born and the pretentiousness of the clergy, the antipathy Delacroix experienced finally felt validated. Somehow avoiding the ire of the other Temple Knights for his sentiments (possibly because he always accepted any and all delegations for the most troublesome tasks outside of the city), he finally started to find a semblance of purpose in his life.However, as the Dragonsong War continued to escalate in the wake of the Seventh Umbral Calamity, many with more than nefarious intentions began to take advantage of Ishgard's dwindled enforcements. It was not long until his luck would come to an end.
Discontentment
The sky turned red. Time stopped and then the heavens fell, destroying everything for malms and malms, Coerthas becoming little more than a frozen wasteland. Delacroix bore witness to the Seventh Umbral Calamity as he and the rest of the Temple Knights prioritized the wellbeing of the high-born, leaving the low-born to fend for themselves. Forests and entire rural towns were destroyed, livelihoods were destroyed, and fields were barren and laid over with ice and snow. Once formidable strongholds for the Holy See now became sanctums and hideaways for the heretics of the Dravanian Horde. Hope for the future became dim and for the first time in his adult life, Papillon felt torn and helpless and his faith, tested.As a Temple Knight, Papillon had spent a spell aiding Inquisitors in their work, seeing more than he would have liked of their methods. His comrades' indifference to violent interrogations and torture shook his resolve. Protest and refusal to participate carried the suspicion of heresy, but the man still resisted in all the ways that he could, unable to bring himself to betray the memory of his mother. And when he did, the result was deep (but hidden) psychological anguish.In a moment of weakness, Delacroix eventually sought out the heretics with whom his mother was involved. Unexpectedly, his friend Lisette caught on to his unwonted behavior and began to pry. Despite Papillon's attempts to shut her out, she persisted, unwittingly drawing both the attention of heretics and Halonic fanatics to herself. The result was tragedy, the forfeiture of any answers surrounding his own mother's death, and the loss of his friend. Lisette lost her life at the hands of misplaced vigilante justice mistaking the faithful Temple Knight for a heretic, further sullying the man's sentiments toward the Holy See and Ishgardian society. With the permission of his Lord Commander, the Ishgardian took temporary leave to mourn while her burial arrangements were being made. The world was gray and the land was hidden under a blanket of blinding white--absent of all warmth, color, and life.
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War's End
Turmoil in southern Eorzea rattled the ears of the politically savvy in the Pillars. The knowledge that House Fortemps had then made Hydaelyn's primal slayer and the Scions their ward came as no surprise to Delacroix. Still, the welcoming of a sudden great many outside unbelievers stirred wariness and distrust, especially in light of the number of heretics who were already known to have infiltrated the city's ruling classes.The events that followed also did little to placate suspicion among Ishgard, however it conversely inspired curiosity in Delacroix. 'Did the Warrior of Light really have the ability to see the truth of the past? The truth of this nation? Or was it more Dravanian trickery to gain an edge in the war? Which side started this terrible millennia long bloodshed? Could my mother have known?' However, these thoughts were kept within as the Heavens Ward acted accordingly, marking any sign of descension as heresy, punishable by death.Delacroix only looked to his Lord Commander, Aymeric de Borel, for order and direction once after he was moved by the actions and information that confirmed his own misgivings with the governing forces of Ishgard. And when Aymeric, himself was put on trial for heresy for delivering the truth to the archbishop, his heart and mind were already made. The history and scripture he'd been taught was riddled with lies. The legacy of the last Ishgardian king and the Knights Twelve was also turned to a lie. Low born, high born--it didn't matter. The basis for their entire way of life was a lie.Delacroix took up his sword to free his Lord Commander alongside other faithful knights as well as the Scions of the Seventh Dawn and paved the way forward to a new Ishgard.
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Looking Ahead
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With the death of archbishop Thordan VII and the end of the thousand year long Dragonsong War that followed not long after, the path to reparations with Dragons was finally made possible. Ishgard was now a democratic republic with the House of Commons and House of Lords now established. Under Aymeric de Borel's new elected leadership, the knight contemplated remaining to help with the nation's restoration efforts for there was much work to be done. However, in the midst of such great social upheaval, Delacroix felt for the first time that his soul was free from the burden of this war and the burden his own father placed on him.Pleading with Ser Aymeric, Papillon Delacroix was able to suspend his title for now, reminded that a Temple Knight's duty is their duty for life. Still, he was granted leave to travel the world and heal his heart with the hope to one day return with bright new counsel and help rebuild Ishgard. Delacroix would not take this allowance lightly, pledging his undying loyalty to no other nation with Halone as his witness. Still, he could not ignore the wounds that his service had wrecked on his soul. With such merciful acquiescence, Delacroix then took his leave.Now free to roam the continent and see the world, to everyone else he is just an average adventurer. From the Shroud to Thanalan, he finally made his way to La Noscea, not missing a chance to gaze at the stars wherever he went. While a venture to the East proved more troublesome than he would have liked, the knight returned to Eorzea, picking up odd work and mingling with common folk. There is never a dull moment that goes by. And while he is no longer a knight of the Holy See, he kept his faith and remained steadfast to keep the promises that he made to those who now found peace within Her halls.
The Story Continues...
"Dear Lisette,Not a day goes by that I don’t think of you. Your kind eyes, your hesitant smile, the way that the wind played with your hair, the way that the sun caressed your cheeks…...And the feel of your lips soft under the pad of a finger. All the light from the world was lost the day that you left it. All the light in my world.You were my first love, an untamed and foolish youthful love. If only I had been more attentive, more aware, more decisive, a better, wiser man--then maybe I could have stopped the cogs of fate in time and reeled you in.But it’s another cold, dark day in the Holy See. Even though the war is over, the emptiness left behind from all of the betrayal and lies, the tortured and innocent lives lost forever still weighs heavy on these shoulders. But losing yours hurts the most...You died for your loyalty to all the people of Ishgard and for your commitment to the truth. For the truth of all and for my truth that I had so selfishly, so stupidly withheld from you.It still stings knowing that Halone turned her back to us on that day--setting in motion a divine will on a level that I will never never come to understand. And truthfully, I don’t think I’ll ever want to hear the reason for the cruel feeling that now haunts me knowing there could have possibly been any other way. There must have been. There had to be.And yet I always looked away when the Inquisitors exercised their right. I always looked away when mothers and fathers were ripped away from their sons and daughters. I always looked away when other Temple Knights crushed the impoverished and meek beneath their boots, calling it the will of the One most holy. I always looked away.Even though the war is over now, we all remain guilty of sin. Halone made her wrath known to us when Dalamud came crashing down. When we all began to realize that the Hell of Ice was our world all along--the one that we’ve made, ourselves.Maybe one day, I’ll live the way you always told me to. I’ll travel the world, eat delicious food, and meet interesting people. Maybe one day, I’ll map the stars wherever I go and I’ll think of you… wherever I go.Maybe one day."
Knight Errant
It had been years since Papillon–now knight-errant–had departed from his alpine home tucked within the hills of Coerthas. Taking up the mantle of adventurer with no shortage of odd jobs and even stranger company, he was able to sustain his travels across Eorzea and beyond and begin fulfilling his promise to his dear beloved friend, Lisette. And in doing so, he carried his rosary with him wherever he went.In that time, Papillon remained steadfast to the morals that his mother passed on to him, the knight laboring to keep an open mind and an even more open heart. Being slow to judge and ‘demonize’ what he did not yet understand came to be a boon to his adventures in foreign lands a lot more quickly than he thought that it would.At first, the knight took whatever work that he could find. Delivering missives, culling pests, menial farm labor, and even service work with the local lounges and inns. He took on contract work on the side, a bodyguard for artisans, traders, and peculiar men with secrets that he knew would probably get him laid low if he inquired about them. At the same time Papillon found work at a certain ‘roadside hostelry for adventurers’ and a high class one at that. Not holding back his title at all, the knight was a popular host at the establishment, widely requested by women who were more or less enthralled by the fairy tales of the valiant noblement of the north–but he did not complain. However, as the knight became more entrenched in the work, he realized that there were few patrons that they turned away no matter how strange or enigmatic they were. And because of this, Papillon met another man who was not all that he seemed. Silvaire Feaureux–an odd Elezen novelist from the Far East.He was a quiet and well mannered man wholly devoted to his works and pleasant company. Naturally, Papillon couldn’t refuse when the opportunity for steady and agreeable contract work made itself available. With this, he was able to leave his position at the hostelry and take up adventuring once again. However, there was one caveat; Silvaire had a secret that would draw even the most esteemed adventurers and hunters to track him down. In divulging his secrets to Papillon, the knight was undaunted. Instead, he readily accepted the strange man and the duty on hand–whatever it entailed.Autumn rolled in and winter came and went and spring arrived. Papillon felt spoiled by the seasons that the rest of the continent still enjoyed. However, there was nothing quite like spending evenings in the open hills of La Noscea and gazing at the stars. It was self-evident to the knight that this land was blessed by the Navigator herself with wide open skies and favorable winds that kept them clear. Still, he did not wander far from his course with his rosary in hand.
Spiral (Ever Upward)
Until one day when the knight found a strange letter mixed in with his belongings. Penned by an enigmatic individual by the name of Hiroya, the letter contained therein things that no one but Papillon, himself would know. But even more, it beseeched Papillon to seek out a Free Company in the Far East to aid them in combating a great enemy, “one who subjugates the downtrodden in secrecy.” It was written along with a promise of setting him on the path of redemption and finding answers to the questions that have haunted the knight for his entire life. It was signed, “you cannot do this alone, we cannot do this alone.” However, despite the sincerity of the letter in his possession, the intimate knowledge and odd request left Papillon wary of what may have been lying in wait for the man should he follow its direction.Though, he would not tarry for long. While he ruminated indecisively at the Limsa Lominsan docks one evening, he was found by an emissary–a small red headed fox woman–who inquired about the peculiar letter. His apprehension was met with understanding and his suspicion was in part assuaged by the soft but strong urgency in her words. Her personal behest (along with a friendly gift of tea and cookies) finally persuaded the knight to enlist in their cause. And so, Papillon set out once more for the Far East.It was there in Shirogane that he found The Owl House, the base of operations for a small band of misfits who called themselves Spiral; some of whom had martial training, others seemingly no more than common adventurers, while others were clearly indiscernible from outlaws and social pariahs. Also among their ranks were strange immortals that Papillon had only previously heard about through his esteemed partner, Silvaire. Upon this realization, Papillon’s faith in the group had understandably diminished. It wasn’t until he could see their talents and capacity to cooperate on the field that it was at least somewhat restored. However, even despite their prowess in combat, their enthusiasm for violence and bloodlust when the opportunity arose unnerved the knight. Where others struck decisively and surely, he hesitated. How was this any different from the ranks of the Temple Knights with which he served in Ishgard? They were told to trust that their cause was good, but the knight could not be so certain. Still, he placed his faith in the kind hearts of the company’s leaders who reassured him that he would ultimately do the right thing.Over time, however, it became clear. The enemy they faced was no common evil, using and employing the lives of children to terrifying ends, ends that Papillon witnessed in gut wrenching disbelief. The innocent were being transformed into terrible monsters after being fed and brainwashed lies about the outside world and those who would come to their aid. Papillon knew then that there would be no easy way forward. No way without violence. No way without loss if they were to deal with this threat swiftly and deftly before more lives would be lost to ruin.But even beyond the borders of Eorzea, there was scarcely a place where the sickness of misanthropy and greed did not fester. There was much work to be done and even more rebuilding, just as it was in his homeland of Ishgard.
Rumors
• "Lacroix? You mean Papillon, right? Like the butterfly? He flirts with /all/ the women. I wouldn't trust him at all."• "There is a tall red haired chap that comes in here sometimes. You can't miss him when he does. I don't ask a lot of questions, but his armor is always polished and his sword is always sharp. He's always happy to help out but I wouldn't cross him."• "There's an Elezen that's out there sometimes late at night. He's always got a rosary so I'd imagine he's one of those Ishgardian fellows."• "I think I heard once that he got that mark from a dragon. Now, did he kill the thing or is there something else he's not telling anyone?"• "You didn't hear this from me, but I was told that he left Ishgard just to be a debaucherous libertine. He never took his duties seriously and now he uses that old knight title of his to get in the graces of both wanton men and women alike. He's no good to any of us."• "Pap? You won't find a more caring and devoted man. But trust me when I say that he has a complicated past. If you find him, please give him my regards. It's honestly been too long and I miss him."
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Rumors
• "That tall guy with the big sword? I've seen him around. There always seems to be people looking for him. He might be trouble."• "He saved me. I don't know where he came from, but he saved me. I don't know where he is now but if you can find him, please thank him for me."• "Are you asking me? Yes, I've seen him. I've seen him consorting with dark forces, talking to himself, to the dead, and to soul tainted creatures with glowing red eyes. It's only a matter of time before he loses his mind and ends up just like her."• "Papillon? He's probably one of the kindest men I have ever met. He's a little bit strange though, I can't put my finger on it. Awkward, really. But he's really nice!"• "Have I seen anything strange lately? I have. I saw an altercation outside of the city on my way back to the stables a couple moons ago. I-I don't know much, but I think I saw a man. He was grossly outnumbered and yet he still slaughtered all of them. I could hardly watch. And then I saw him carry away a body covered in blood. He looked my way just once and I felt a chill run through me. Oh by the Fury, there was so much blood. He has to be some kind of monster. A demon! Huh? What did he look like? I... don't remember."
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Of Honor & Ignominy
• "I saw it all. He came right into the Tribunal and shoved right through the attending knights. It happened so quickly. He was... completely mad with rage. It was a terrifying sight. And before we could stop him, Ser Lafayette had already been slain right in the hall."• "I don't agree that he should have been able to walk free after what he did. Ishgard has no place for vigilantes and sellswords. It doesn't matter what crimes were thought to be on the inquisitor's hands. Two wrongs don't pave the way to righteousness."• "His mother is a demon. She only lives because of unnatural means. And she raised her son to practice in the same wicked ways. They will always be heretics. Their souls will always be tainted and they will never walk in Her halls."• "You've probably heard some things about him. He stood trial and was granted clemency for his crimes because of the grave danger Renaud posed to all of us. I am glad for this. Had the inquisitor been given the grace of a 'fair' trial, I don't think any of the evidence would have been able to come to light."• "Despite what people are saying about him--calling him a heretic and a murderer--he doesn't seem to be the type who likes to stir trouble and he always keeps to himself. He doesn't talk an awful lot either, but when he does, people listen. And there's an earnest warmth in his words."
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Playlist
Services*
You meet a guy who knows a guy or you find a handwritten flier pinned on a job board in a tavern...
Guard & Escort
Need extra protection while traveling or delivering goods? Or another pair of eyes to stay on the lookout for assailants and brigands? Consider a contract with this adventurer.
Trusted Companion
Need a friendly ear or someone to accompany you to that venue you've always wanted to go to? Or just someone to hang out with for the evening without any fuss? Consider seeking out this amiable fellow.
'Boyfriend' For a Day
For those looking to experience something more on the 'steady' side without the strings attached, this errant knight lends his services. What you'll get: his complete and undivided attention for whatever you like in front of whoever you like. Nobody has to know.
'Lover' For a Knight
For those looking for something that's a little more special and need a bit more tending to. Let's talk.
~Personal requests of this nature are especially subject to approval of both the player and the character.
Please note:
All services and rates are subject to change and must be paid ahead of services rendered. Unused time will be refunded to the client.
*These services are meant to provide an option for immediate & non-committal immersive experiences and are by no means the only options for initiating RP with me.
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OOC
You made it. Thank you for reading my second installment of 'The Legend of Papillon Delacroix'. (Now prepare for the third!)It was painstaking but well worth it in the end (I hope). Here I will expand on some of my preferences for this kind of roleplay.Some clarifications:
MRP according to Urban Dictionary is as follows
MRP is role-playing that may involve violence, strong language, drama and quite often sex scenes, though unlike ERP, the scenes are a sub-product of the RP, not the whole RP.MRP will usually be a long term role-play and anything that happens in the RP will effect the characters for the rest of the storyline. MRP is suggested only to those who can understand adult situations and consequences as well as those who do not mind having their character die or change completely if the RP calls for it. (with the consent of the players, of course)
In short, partners who wish to engage in mature RP, dark RP, and long term RP with this character must be aware that (unless retconned) the impression you leave is long lasting. Your character might be mentioned in scenes with other players, in his journal, and forever be apart of his memories.This also means there are some boundaries in place. And they are, but not limited to:• IC / OOC distinctions. What my character feels, does, and thinks does not reflect wholly or at all what I, as the player, feel, do, and think. If our characters are intimate, it's not an invitation to the player. However, please feel free to communicate any thoughts or concerns as they do come up regarding this nature of roleplay. While sometimes unavoidable, please acknowledge and respect that there is a boundary.Additionally, you do not own roleplay partners. They are real people with agency. Do not assume exclusivity and do not bother me with concerns around stealing RP partners or characters. Sort it out IC or with your partners. Not respecting this wish will quickly result in us not playing together anymore.• Consent. Any and all aspects of erotic RP, dark RP elements, and instances of death, disfigurement, and trauma must be agreed upon OOCly ahead of the scene. Not adhering to this policy may result in the scene abruptly ending or us not playing together anymore.
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• Respecting each other's time. I will do my best to uphold arrangements to RP and the allotted windows we're able to play together. Sometimes real life and health (physical and mental) take precedence. If there are any bumps or interferences in our ability to play together, please let me know. I'll afford you the same respect that I expect from you.• Patience. Sometimes I am not on my A game and take a little longer to write my responses. It is seldom longer than 5-10 minutes for a response from me, even in game. If you are a slow writer, let me know so I can make enough time for us to play together. If you are anxious, self conscious, indecisive, or just not feeling the character (but still want to play) then just let me know. I don't mind. If English is not your first language or there are other challenges, then of course I don't mind. But having been slowed down by PTSD and multiple TBI's, I only ask that you be patient with me if you would like to play together.• Lastly, just respect in general. I do not tolerate passive aggression about RP outcomes or inability to roleplay as often as you would like. I do my best to be straightforward about what I want out of RP and I will expect the same of you. If my character decides not to run with your band of adventurers, yes that is unfortunate. If my character doesn't want a relationship with yours, then yes that can be disappointing. But I hope that we can both be mature enough to move on from that and find other things to write about.
OOC
((Continued))
If you have any questions or concerns or would like to write a scene with me, please contact me in game (Papillon Delacroix@Marilith) or my discord: dorkest_knight. Please message me before adding me if you can, please! I get a lot of random adds. But chances are, we might already share a server or two so message me first.Additionally, here are some answers to frequent questions I receive:
• While I am always happy to meet new people who I can play with, I am quite busy, work a full time job, and have quite a few RP obligations already. Patience and understanding is appreciated.• I am open to participating in story arcs, DMed events, and don't mind combat/dice RP.• I do have other characters but I won't share them here.• If you want to invite me to a venue or an RP event, please do! I won't always make it but I am definitely open to these.• I'm nice. And I mean that I am /actually/ nice. Please do not feel afraid to approach me on discord or in game. I may not always be able to respond right away, but I will always try to get back to you.
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Thank you again for visiting my carrd. I look forward to meeting you.🦋
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ERP & Relationships
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Relationships:Papillon is happily taken.♡
Last Carrd Update 12/19/2024
Notes:
- Updated Relationship Status
- Updated AgeMore details pertaining to Papillon's story arcs (RP campaigns and related fanfiction) will become available soon.
ERP Faq
• I do have a /c/ but I won't share it here. Please DM me if you are interested in this kind of play.• Yes, he is a dom. It is rare that this role is reversed. He is almost always a /giver/. But he doesn't tolerate others being /takers/ at all. And because it needs to be emphasized: neither will he tolerate unnecessarily cruel, mouthy, or belligerent characters (outside of a "scene") at all. He will show them the door. Brats are on thin ice.• He does have a sadistic side in /play/ but he is not a sadistic person. He's not edgy or mean at all unless you want him to be. However, his default disposition is more oriented towards being a sensual dominant and will usually begin there with newer partners as he gets to know them and builds trust.• Kink isn't everything and it spans more than just power exchanges and bondage. He is more than satisfied with vanilla encounters. Many of his favorite activities aren't BDSM related at all.• Aftercare, aftercare, aftercare. We can't play together if you don't know what this is. If you do, then great. Our characters can discuss what their needs are in terms of care, the kind of care, if care is desired at all and let them decide if that's where they want to go.• He is bi. He is very very bi. He gives just as much attention to women as he does to men. Masculinity, femininity, or gender variance won't dissuade his interest but other factors might. However, he's a gentleman about it. He is seldom the first to push the subject but often responds favorably to tact and subtlty.• He does not enter any kind of D/s dynamic with people he has just met, is unfamiliar with, or not in any kind of trusting relationship with. This is a hard boundary for both me and the character and under rare circumstances are either of us willing to compromise on this.• He is not interested in bottomless bottoms, doormats, or people who otherwise feel entitled to a certain kind of play. Additionally, while he doesn't mind bratty subs some of the time, there's a limit and it's really bound to his relationship to the other character in question.• Lastly: He is allowed his preferences. He is allowed to tell your character no. Your character is allowed to tell him no. This is the nature of things.I only ask (to the best of you and your character's ability) that you please be open and honest about your needs and your boundaries. It is this very foundation of trust that will allow us to have fun together.
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Gallery
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Story Arcs
Into the Dark
It's been years since his departure from Ishgard and even longer since the tragic death of his closest friend, Lisette. And yet, the individual(s) responsible for the tragedy are still out there with an even more dangerous fixation on the knight's present affairs. Distant erstwhile connections have begun to prove themselves to be much less innocuous (and much more deadly) than Papillon could have imagined.
The heretical cult in which his mother was involved also remains at large and maintains skeptism of the newfound peace between Dravania and Ishgard with the disbelief that centuries of lies and bloodshed can truly be atoned for. Through a fateful series of peculiar events, his searching may finally come to bear fruit and unveil a long kept family secret... but the following entanglements for him and his loved ones put everything on the line.
Stained by the past, the knight still bears the memories in which he was helpless to protect those most dear to him. Often tortured or slain at the hands of those who have also sworn to protect, they have unceremoniously turned a blind eye to the meek and the most vulnerable without care or reverence for life. His inability to forgive these transgressions has festered into an uncanny conviction inside him. While having always been taught to keep a wary eye on Dark Knights, something about their plight rings true to him with ever increasing clarity. But without a master, his confrontation with the dark may prove to be perilous.
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Note: If you are interested in participating or collaborating with me on any storyline related roleplay, please feel free to contact me.** This page will be updated when I finish writing new summaries/backstory for the completed arc! **
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(Coming Soon...)
Into Oblivion
Precarious Masters
Beasts and Blasphemies
With a Heavy Heart
Hooks
• ...Actually a more than capable swordsman and will not hesitate to leap into danger to save a life.• Always looking for more comrades to work alongside with on the field.• Sometimes the quiet brooding type late at night if he's found wandering.
• Need a pair of legs for that fetch quest? He's your guy!• Looking for someone to help apprehend that scoundrel? Look no further!• Thirsty for ale? He is too!• Longing for some company and a place to spill your heart? This seat's not taken...
Etiquette & Preferences
Under Construction~
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Proficiencies
• Melee Combat: Exceptional• Ranged Combat: Average• Physical Strength: Exceptional• Athleticism: Above Average• Perception: Above Average• Aetherical Manipulation: Below Average• Intelligence: Average• Dexterity: Average• Luck: Above Average• Diplomacy: Exceptional• Stamina and Constitution: Above Average• Willpower and Determination: Exceptional
• Magitek:
Below Average• Airships:
No Proficiency• Disciple of Hand:
No Proficiency• Disciple of Land:
No Proficiency
Miscellaneous Notes:• Marked on his left cheek and some dragons and heretics will not harm him. Immune to tempering.• He has the same gift as his great grandfather with the ability to sometimes have prophetic dreams -- or is it his soul crystal?• His alignment is Neutral Good.
At A Glance
Name: Papillon DelacroixAge: 36Nameday: 19th Sun of the Sixth Umbral Moon (Sagittarius Cusp)Sex: MaleHeight: 6'10Build: AthleticCitizenship: IshgardStanding in Ishgard: Good Standing/Granted ClemencyAffiliations: Spiral & The Owl HouseProfession: Adventurer/Knight-Errant; BodyguardArms: SwordsSexuality: Bi/PansexualStatus: TakenPreference: Dominant, Side
What is a side?Hobbies: High Fashion; Traveling; StargazingNotable Likes: Tea; Sweets; Summer; Quiet men; Shy women; Hot baths; Clear night skies; Gaudy jewelryNotable Dislikes: Warm ale; Entitlement; Arrogance; Unnecessarily mean or cruel people; Unpressed uniforms; Spring (Allergies); Coriander (Taste); Misanthropy; Torture; Abuse
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Spiral Template
Into the Dark - Part I
"In my time spent away from Ishgard, I have realized that many have thought that I had abandoned my duties or that I despised my home nation. But nothing could be further from the truth, no matter how heavily it has weighed on my heart. In fact, it is because of the love I had for Ishgard that I always wished for her to be something more than what she was; something as true and strong and proud as the Fury, Herself. However, I couldn't bear the reality that I had somehow always known.As the years have gone by, I have yearned to return to my home nestled in those highland hills. I miss my peers; brave and honorable knights who have since joined in the efforts for Eorzea and the good of all beyond our borders. I yearn to see the new Ishgard that my former Lord Commander has envisioned and still believes is possible even with our shameful history. I yearn to see a new Ishgard that is full of promise and humble in her reparations so that her people may begin to heal.But I cannot forget the many wicked men and women whom we were made to abide and the lies that buried friends and enemies alike. I cannot forget... And yet, I still feel like my part isn't finished.Instead of running, I must face the past and tend to these wounds. For my love for them and for my love for Ishgard, I cannot hide from it any longer.I must go back."
There and Back Again
While Papillon held some appreciation for the change of pace and meaningful work, the comradery between ‘misfits’ left him missing his peers in Ishgard. He missed the familiar tastes of Ishgardian fare and the sweet scent of Ishgardian tea leaves and buffalo milk steeping atop of the hearth. He was homesick. Homesick and unimpressed with the tenebrous morals among the new comrades he’d gained. Upon realizing this, the knight had finally deigned to return.Having heard of the great works in restoring the foundation from the scars of the Dragonsong War, he did not know entirely what to expect when he returned to Ishgard. He wanted to see for himself the work that his former Lord Commander had undertaken alongside talented artisans from all across Eorzea. The Firmament–a monument to new beginnings and a promise for a better future was much more than he could have imagined. The solidarity and speed under which so much could be accomplished left the knight enchanted and speechless. However, it was not long before his homecoming had reached the ears of the knight’s old friends and his jovial high hopes would become short lived.How much had Ishgard really changed in these last few years of his absence? Papillon quickly learned–not as much as he had hoped.While in the midst of a stroll through the Foundation, the knight-errant was accosted by a Temple Knight on patrol. The knight had stopped Papillon under the accusations of heresy and betraying Ishgard. But before Papillon even had a moment to react, the patrol revealed himself as Artois Valmont and laughed off the shock on his face. While Papillon was not amused, he was relieved that he was not actually in any trouble. During their brief reunion, Artois challenged him to a match the following day to test just how much Papillon’s travels strengthened him–a good spar like ‘old times.’ Unable to refuse the friendly invitation, Papillon had agreed to it.At the start of the next day, Papillon arrived early at the arena, their chosen location for their rendezvous. Like the rest of Ishgard, it held both good and haunting memories. After a moment of solitude with his thoughts, he was joined by the company of Artois and not long after, their spar began. Even though he’d never lost to Artois before, he quickly realized that this time, there was something different about him. Determined to surpass Papillon, the Temple Knight had relentlessly trained and forced the knight-errant to heel. However, long after the match should have ended, it continued. Tasting blood, Papillon was pushed to his limits just to endure blow after blow–a laceration to his arm and a boot to the gut, and the blunt force of a shield against his jaw. The match finally ended when a woman rushed between them from the stands–Artois’ younger sister, a House Knight named Lorelei.Papillon then realized that there had been an audience who jeered at him on his way out. The humiliating defeat stung deeply and the rumors that soon followed only served to salt his wounds. The south had made him soft, Artois had told him. But Papillon wanted to believe that he’d always been soft. But he couldn’t be anymore.After Lorelei left him with the Congregation’s healers and his wounds were tended to, the knight was accosted by yet another Ishgardian, a woman who knew him well, an old dalliance–Madelaine Desrousseaux. Ecstatic with his return, Papillon received another invitation to “catch up” but this time, over tea. He responded amicably, however he politely turned her down before returning to the Forgotten Knight for the evening.Papillon spent the next several weeks lending his help wherever he could in the Firmament. After some time, the rumors of his return and subsequent defeat subsided and the hard menial labor began to feel meaningful and good. But Madelaine showed up again, relentless. To placate her, the knight finally agreed to an outing with her just this once. It was clear that the noblewoman would not take no for an answer so naturally Papillon conceded. Yet afterwards, her propitious response made him immediately regret it. He dreaded the thought that he’d somehow given her false hope knowing full and well what kind of woman that she was.And so the afternoon came and Papillon joined Madelaine in the Pillars at a small tea shop that was already bustling with nobles and business people, well-to-do’s. What started as innocuous chit chat soon arrived at the conversation of courtship and Papillon’s love life. Delicately but firmly, Papillon rejected her and shut down any further protest from the noblewoman. After an outburst out of Madelaine had caused a scene, they had drawn the attention and whispers of the other patrons. Calmly, Papillon politely apologized and excused himself.Already the knight had enough of home. He remembered the reasons why he had decided in the first place to leave Ishgard behind. And so when his foray into the Holy See had come to a close, he finished his work in the Firmament and said his farewells before returning once again to the south.Weeks passed and the memory of having returned home started to fade to the back of his mind. However, the knight soon realized that something odd was afoot. With growing wariness, he became suspicious that he was being followed, watched even. Taking extra precaution, he became acutely aware of his surroundings but could not pin why or how long there had been others scurrying around corners and tracking his whereabouts. But he was not blind to it. He wondered if he had gotten involved with the wrong band of mercenaries for his work or if he’d somehow made an enemy or two within the Owl House. No, it couldn’t have been that. Apprehensive, he regarded his new contacts with suspicion and began to worry for the misfits and non-mortal among them, the most in danger had he managed to rouse the convictions of fanatics and hunters both.But then in the dark of night, the perpetrators revealed themselves. Assailants bearing Halonic crests had finally ambushed him, catching him unaware but not unarmed. Foiling the attempt, he apprehended one of them and demanded to know who sent them. House Desrousseaux. Under whose jurisdiction? They declined to answer, having already said too much. But Papillon knew then that he owed little Miss Maddy a visit. The knight confided in Silvaire, his closest contact about the situation at hand before deciding that he must return to Ishgard another time. He then set out for the city to find her.Shortly after his arrival, he was stopped by patrols and shortly after that, he was placed under arrest for counts of heresy against the Holy See of Ishgard and for crimes committed against a noblewoman. Upon denying the accusations outright, he knew that the odds of receiving a fair trial would not be in his favor. After refusing to cooperate, swords were drawn. However, grossly outnumbered, the knight-errant endeavored to flee instead. Relying on his memory of the twists and turns and nooks of the town that he and Lisette once mastered in their friendship together, he was almost sure that he could get away and lose their pursuit of him. Until he was met with a dead end. A wrong turn.Cornered and with no place to run, the knight felt his heart stop. However, a woman hiding in the shadows called his attention before beckoning him to follow her. Without much time to deliberate, he placed his trust in her. And just as quickly, she created a diversion weaved out of magick before leading him through the dark and through abandoned buildings and rubble into the underground and out of the city before their pursuers could find them again. From there, the two escaped to the hills of Dravania.During their journey, Papillon knew that after that night, he would never be able to return.
Into the Dark - Part II
"The scene from all those years ago replays in my mind. The sight, the smell, the taste, the sound, and the pain. Poignant. As a child, I did not know how I was to act when I saw my mother laying on the kitchen floor with the life gone from her body. There were no answers back then. And even as I sought after the truth of the strange robed men who visited our house and the nature of the rift between my mother and father when I was older, there were still no answers.Every lead I had was lost after another storm and after another blanket of snow obscured the way. Even as I was an honorable knight in service to the Holy See and willing to lay down my life for my brethren and for my country, something did not feel right. For so many years, there was a void inside of me where I wandered and searched aimlessly. In the dark labyrinth where I toiled between right and wrong, the hunger for the truth was my North Star.But after I had lost Lisette I had believed that I would never learn what really happened on that day. Not without consequence. And I was sure that at the war’s end, I had completely lost the chance to find the band of heretics whom my mother so closely was in contact with; who held all of my family’s secrets.Never had I dreamed that this day would come. Now that I have no place to call my home and no place I can return to, I finally might have found the wellspring of truth I had been searching for. Heretics who are still alive and well in the hills of Dravania have taken me in and given me asylum until the chaos can settle.But whether or not I will find my answers, only time will tell.”
Faith And Shadow
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To Be Continued...
Into the Dark
~ Ishgardian Roleplay Arc - Three Parts ~
(Part III Currently In progress)
• There and Back Again (Complete): It's been years since his departure from Ishgard and even longer since the tragic death of his closest friend, Lisette. And yet, the individual(s) responsible for the tragedy are still out there with an even more dangerous fixation on the knight's present affairs. Distant erstwhile connections have begun to prove themselves to be much less innocuous (and much more deadly) than Papillon could have imagined.
• Faith and Shadow (Complete): The heretical cult in which his mother was involved also remains at large and maintains skeptism of the newfound peace between Dravania and Ishgard with the disbelief that centuries of lies and bloodshed can truly be atoned for. Through a fateful series of peculiar events, his searching may finally come to bear fruit and unveil a long kept family secret... but the following entanglements for him and his loved ones put everything on the line.
• Before the Dawn (In Progress): Stained by the past, the knight still bears the memories in which he was helpless to protect those most dear to him. Often tortured or slain at the hands of those who have also sworn to protect, they have unceremoniously turned a blind eye to the meek and the most vulnerable without care or reverence for life. His inability to forgive these transgressions has festered into an uncanny conviction inside him. While having always been taught to keep a wary eye on Dark Knights, something about their plight rings true to him with ever increasing clarity. But without a master, his confrontation with the dark may prove to be perilous.
Note: If you are interested in participating or collaborating with me on any storyline related roleplay, please feel free to contact me.
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"If I had known sooner that the secrets within my family would have set me free, I would not have suffered anything to stand in the way between myself and the truth. I would have dedicated every bone and sinew of my body to putting an end to the meaningless bloodshed, the senseless torture, and the wrecking of innocent lives. Too long have I remained passive to the quiet injustices of my nation still ongoing, taken by my own cowardice and fear of being named a heretic like so many who were dear to me, like so many who were taken away from me. If there is to be justice in this world, the iniquitous must be brought to answer for their crimes. For if we do not protect the least among us, then who will? If we do not do everything within our power to this end, what does it even matter? And so I pray thusly...
May the meek forever know Her grace, and may the wicked only know Her fury."
"Herein you will find my private and inner most thoughts, memories, and experiences recounted so that they may not be forgotten. But I assure you that these are truly only privy to the very few."
∗Will Be Hyperlinked when Complete
*This page is under construction/will be overhauled soon! (as of 7/26/2022)
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Story Arcs"Into the Dark"
There and Back Again
Faith and Shadow
Before the Dawn
Last Updated: 5/6/2022 - Will be starting a new experimental project and will probably discontinue linear fanfiction for a while. Will revisit these as time and ambition allows.
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Other Works∗ The Medicine Girl
∗ Starlight in Ishgard
∗ [Placeholder]
Last Updated:
*disclaimer: Papillon is presently no longer single and not romantically available. While casual encounters are still negotiable, if you are looking for a typical relationship RP with your ERP, it will be difficult if not impossible for this character to accommodate. There are, however, lots of other kinds of wonderful and fulfilling relationships to be had. *~~~~~~~~~~~~~