Pendragon
Role-Playing => Winter Phase => Topic started by: GM Craig on April 09, 2015, 12:01:06 PM
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As winter approaches, invitations are sent out from Winterbourne Stoke to many knights and lords of Salisbury.
At first, responses to the invitations are a little better than average, which is a mixed thing. Less cost, but fewer respondents means fewer lords and ladies, so less glory.
Then, two weeks before the feast is scheduled, Earl Rodrick sends a message that he will be delighted to be there. The next day, messages arrive from all over Salisbury with knights and lords indicating their intention to attend. When all is said and done, it appears the house will be full to the rafters, so arrangements are made for braziers and a pavilion outside to house the feasting.
The house, already a place of frenetic activity given Sir Cedwyn's plans for the summer, turns into a kicked anthill as peasant workmen rub elbows with household servants and hired temporary staff to prepare for the feast. By all accounts, this is a banner year for Winterborune Stoke - a year of prosperity unseen in living memory. Spirits seem to be up, though there is the usual grumbling among the common folks. But peasants will grumble, it is what they do.
With all the spending going on, Sir Cedwyn's reputation seems to have risen, especially among the many merchants that have been to the manor recently. True, merchants are easily impressed by gold, but good words spread and such visibility is good for a young knight.
With his steward overwhelmed, many day-to-day matters consume more and more of Sir Cedwyn's time, and he feels distinctly the absence of a wife, who would naturally deal with all of these details.
Finally, in late September, the day of the feast arrives. Attendees start arriving in the early afternoon, many setting up camps in the wastes around the manor.
[Actions?]
It's not customary to greet anyone until they present at the manor itself, so your staff would normally sort out who is staying where and such things, but you can take a more active hand if you wish. There's plenty to keep you busy in the kitchen and out in the pavilion if your steward is left to handle the informal greetings.
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[ooc: I assume that I would be giving up my chambers for Roderick, correct? And that as host he would greet his lordship personally. Can I spend an extra few shillings to hire a jongleur and a bard?]
Cedwyn left specific instructions with his old nuncle who acted as his steward to handle settling the notables into a camp. With two major exceptions, the first being the Earl himself and the second being Sir Rodric. Cedwyn wished to greet his lord personal as well as his boon companion from their travails in battle and adventure.
Otherwise, Cedwyn noted he would oversee the preparations for the feast itself: food, decorations, seating, etc. This was meant to partly be a display for courtship and partly to share his own good fortune: surviving a battle, helping kill a servant of Satan, and the good fortune Roderick had provided by renting Peredur for stud services.
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[OOC: Yes, especially since you do not have a wife, giving up your chambers (unless guest quarters were nicer) would be the knightly thing to do.]
Count Roderick's entourage begins arriving around noon. They will continue arriving throughout the day, so you have some time. A squire - a knight bachelor by the name of Barruc has a look over in advance of the Count's arrival, and pronounces them satisfactory.
The remainder of the afternoon is filled with preparation worth. With your uncle-steward busy marshalling the guests' entourages, you are busy inside the house and on the grounds ensuring everything is ready. The last-minute hiring of a jongleur and a bard were arranged - the presence of the Count at the feast ensured there were willing participants - and a weave of music and storytelling keep your guests entertained.
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It is the better part of a hard day's journey from Fault to Winterbourne Stoke. Rather than ride hard and arrive with road dust on you, your steward wisely suggests you overnight in Sarum, and arrive early to give yourself time to clean up and prepare to make a good impression. So, it is early afternoon when you arrive. As you come around the bend, you see the wastes around the manor appear to have been overrrun. Pavilions and banners of a full score of lords dot the fields around the humble manor.
Given the house looks much as your does, and Cedwyn's means seem to be similar to your own, this seems an extravagant event, though the presence of Earl Rodric's livery, if not his banner, perhaps makes this event worth the cost. There are also a fair number of non-noble attendees - rich merchants and the like - who are probably here as guests of guests.
Your entourage, such as it is, sets up a small camp under the direction of Cedwyn's steward, and in short order, your baggage is unpacked. By now it is later in the afternoon - time to start getting ready. You are about to do that when your squire approaches. "My lord, Sir Cedwyn approaches."
[Over to you guys.]
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When word came that Rodric had arrived, Cedwyn left things in the hands of his household to greet his friend. Soon he would need to prepare himself and he was glad for his purchase of new finery in Sarum.
Cedwyn kept some knightly decorum but moved with speed to greet his friend and boon companion from the summer campaign.
"Rodric!" He called as he approached and clasped his fellow knight in a brotherly embrace, "It gladdens my heart to see you my friend."
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"It is good to see you as well." Rodric replied accepting the embrace.
"You have certainly gone all out. What turn of fate has prompted such an exquisite," Rodric tapped his stomach and smiled, "and most welcome event?"
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"You recall Peredur, yes?" Cedwyn began, "His Lordship has rented him for stud services at a handsome sum. This," Cedwyn indicated the feast, "Is just the beginning. Come I will show you..."
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"How could I not recall him, he is nearly as big as a house." Rodric joked, following his friend to see what it was he wanted to show him.
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"I do not mean to boast...much," Cedwyn noted jokingly, "But I have a great deal going in...so much I had to hire outsiders to bring it all to fruition."
He took Rodric towards the wastes where there was yet no one camped.
"These lands here...after the feast, I will have them cleared before first snow...and next spring, there will be two orchards, one of plums and one of apples. I will also have an apiary out here as well so as to make sure my crops have proper care...or better care than I can now provide...and my peasants crops as well."
He then took Rodric by the river where stakes had been marked.
"And this shall be a fish pond. By spring, it will be dug and filled. But the grandest is yet to come." And Cedwyn guided his friend and fellow knight back towards the manor house.
"This, my friend...this is the grandest of all. I am rebuilding my hall larger than before and I even have enough for a dovecote!" Cedwyn sounded excited though it also seemed as if he was trying to hold back.
"My apologies...if I boast overmuch," He said, "The dreams of my father...improving our lands...making this place more prosperous. It is finally happening."
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"No need for apologies." Rodric replied to Cedwyn.
"We all dream to improve our station and our home. I hope one day to be able to boast of such great changes myself.
But if you do feel that bad about the boasting, then I will ensure we both drink enough wine until you feel better." The knight gave his friend a friendly punch to the side of his arm with a laugh.
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Cedwyn gave him a friendly punch in return and then clasped him in a brotherly embrace.
"It is good to see you," he laughed, "And a good opportunity yes? His Lordship instructed us to find wives...what better place than at a grand feast!"
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"Hm, you have a good point there. Perhaps I should take it easy on the wine." Rodric paused.
"Did I just hear a sigh of relief from your coffers?"
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"Ha! And my poor beleaguered n'uncle. His head is positively spinning with all that is happening. I'm afraid it is well past time for his retirement. He's thoroughly earned it."
"Come...let us enjoy a flagon together and toast to missing brothers. Especially Gwynn."
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"And toast to the death of witches." Rodric added, recent events still very fresh in his mind.
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Cedwyn smiled, "And to the death of witches. I kept sword and have decided to call it Witchbane. It has no magic but I will take great joy in seeing it over my hearth this winter. And carrying it into battle next spring against its makers. Hopefully by God's grace, it will be a bane to its heathen makers and their sorcerous allies."
Cedwyn managed to find the butler and ordered him to bring a pitcher of the good spiced wine and two cups to his tent on the grounds.
"As a matter of course, I've given over my solar to His Lordship so I will be on the grounds with everyone else. Come...let us retire there and talk. There is a fire and soon some wine."
[ooc: butler being the servant in charge if the bottlery-the place where wine and ale are kept]
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The servant scuttles off at speed, and you make your way to a moderate-sized tent set up near the manor. There are sleeping quarters and a sitting room set aside within. There are several pieces of furniture - a table, comfortable chairs, and a large wardrobe present. The floor is covered with a large carpet.
When you arrive, wine is already warming by the fire. A young lad [Haydn, Cedwyn's squire] is there tending the fire. He turns and rises as you enter, and bows to the both of you, Cedwyn first.
"My lord. Your staff, while they mean well, are unaccustomed to noble field accommodations. I took the liberty of directing a few of them to make improvements. I've done my best to make the tent comfortable for you."
Turning to Rodric, he bows again. "Sir Rodric. I see you have recovered from your adventures."
The boy is courteous, there's no doubt there.
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"I have, thank you Haydn." Rodric gave the squire a nod.
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[ooc: I assume Haydn is serving us. Ken...anything else to add?]
"Thank you, Haydn. You've done very well, indeed," Cedwyn noted and motioned to a chair for Rodric, "Come, let us sit and enjoy the fire and some wine."
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The afternoon is spent in quiet fellowship, but eventually Cedwyn is called away to oversee preparations for the dinner.
Later that afternoon, word passes that the Count's party is approaching. Cedwyn executes a quick change of attire, and is ready to greet the count when he arrives, with a small group of people.
You step out onto the steps of the manor as Salisbury and his entourage arrive. He dismounts and proceeds to the large gilded carriage to assist several Ladies down. When they have done so, Count Roderick approaches.
[OOC: I need a courtesy roll.]
"Sir Cedwyn, a pleasure to see you again. I hope your duties will permit you a few minutes to discuss horses. Let me assure you your magnificent animal is being well cared for. My Horsemaster wept openly when I told him I had secured him for breeding. You know my wife, Ellen, of course. My first guests is the Lady Indeg, the widow of Sir Baden, who fell in battle against the Saxons." Lady Indeg is known to you. An older woman, she is 40, and has buried two husbands. The law of the land gives her autonomy in future marriages. She is the richest heiress in the county. She is far past the age of beauty, but has handsome enough features. [App 8]
Moving to his next companion, she says, "This is Lady Gwiona, my wife's handmaiden and companion." Gwiona is certainly beautiful [App 16] She is heiress to 2 manors, and a great match. Her last 4 suitors were killed in battle shortly after proposing. You have seen her around the castle many times when you were there as a squire in the Count's service.
Moving to his last companion, Rodric says, "This is the Lady Elaine, the widow of Sir Moesen." This woman is certainly beautiful [App 18], but you know the name Sir Moesen. He was at the centre of a scandal a few years ago. He was murdered in his sleep by his wife's base-born lover. The lover was hanged for the murder. Elaine had been scorned in social circles ever since for her apparent lack of fidelity. She is, however, heiress to 4 manors, and that is no small thing.
There is no sign of Roderick's daughter, the Lady Jenna, though she is not of marriageable age yet.
[OOC: Pausing here for your response. There are other guests worthy of a personal greeting arriving right behind Roderick.]
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[16 versus 12 skill. Fail. ]
Cedwyn welcomed his lord, but he felt incredibly nervous and was sure he was forgetting something...or would upset his Lordship's guests.
"Welcome to Winterbourne Stoke, my Lord. It was gracious of you to accept my invitation. Of course, I shall endeavor to find time to discuss horses," he was sure he was definitely forgeting something. He went to Lady Ellen first.
"My Lady," offering a bow, "I am honored. I welcome you to Winterbourne Stoke."
He greeted each of Roderick's guests in turn, trying to offer courtesy and grace as best he could.
Returning to Lord Roderick, "If it please you , my Lord, my steward will show you to your rooms," he felt no need to mention that Roderick's rooms were his own; it was the expectation when a Knight's Lord came a-calling.
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Count Roderick adopts something of a frown, and the Countess looks a little like she was sucking on a lime, but Roderick says, "Thank you, Sir Cedwyn. That will be fine. I presume my guests will have their own rooms?"
That is a bit of a disruption. [Courtesy fail] You had not planned on his guests having separate quarters. You'll need to put some others out of their rooms, and quickly.
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God's teeth. His guests! That's what he'd forgotten. His Lordship's guests always had their own rooms...as befitted their status.
"Of course, my Lord," Cedwyn replied. He hoped his face wasn't turning too red. He had embarrassed Winterbourne Stoke, not much...but this was meant to be a signal for the future. And this misstep was ill-omened. He ran a list through his head of who he could displace quickly. His uncle of course...the bailiff. Quite a few others of the staff. It'd be tight, but possibly workable.
[ooc: not sure where to take this at this point. SInce I've got to greet others, I'd think I'd send two runners ahead and have them clear out some rooms for me of my staff. Not sure how many rooms I have or how to order it...I assume Cedwyn would know though.]
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Caught momentarily out, you send for your steward, who rushes off to make arrangements. Fortunately, Haydn shows up and offers to take the ladies on a tour of the grounds, highlighting the proposed changes to the manor, which leaves you free to continue greetings your important guests.
By the end, the Earl and his retinue have all but taken over the manor. It will require some adjustments, but Haydn seem to have the matter in hand.
Next up on the official invites is Sir Elad, the Earl's Marshall and Castellan of the Earl's fortress at Vagon. He has a lovely woman on his arm that is not the wife you recall. He greets you. "Sir Cedwyn, a pleasure to see you again. My wife sends her regrets - she was ill and could not attend. However, let me introduce you to lady Adwen, the daughter of Sir Bles, who fell in battle the summer before last." She is a remarkable creature. Young, modest (if her bearing is any indication) and beautiful. "Sir Bles was akin to a brother to me, so Lady Adwen is the niece of my heart, if not of my blood. She has been hiding in her manor for far too long, so I encouraged her to come out and socialize."
She blushes slightly, but demurely says nothing.
Following closely on Sir Elad's heals is Sir Hywel, banneret of West Lavington. The young lady on his arm is introduced as Lady Dilys, his daughter. You know of Sir Hywel. His wife died in childbirth. Such was Sir Hywel's love for his wife he swore never to marry again. His daughter will inherit a substantial estate.
And finally, Sir Amig arrives with a smile. Following the recent campaign, he was appointed castellan of Tilshead Castle to the northwest, and charged with protecting the county from the dangers of Blakemore Wood and Crokwood. He claps your shoulder warmly. "It warms my heart to see you, young Sir Cedwyn." He arrives with a few lesser knights in his company but no wife - it is known that his wife is not fond of social gatherings.
That deals with the important guests - the rest can be handled by your uncle and Haydn, so you double check that preparations for the Earl's staff and guests are being made. Finally, the Head Steward catches you. "M'lord, we are ready to begin."
The presentation in the spacious tent starts, with people being announced by rank. Haydn handles that part, and does and admirable job. At length, everyone is seated. Your companion, Sir Rodric, is some distance away, seated down the table according to custom, but you as host are at the head table.
With the everyone seated, and the meal ready to serve, it falls to you to give some opening remarks.
[OOC: I need a speech here. Generally, thanking everyone of importance and speaking to the reason for the gathering. Ending with a grace would also be appropriate. I'll need a Courtesy roll to make sure you didn't forget everyone and did everything according to protocol. Also, you can attempt to impress your guests with a speech, which will require an Orate roll. You can choose to keep things simple, which would not require an Orate roll.]
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[Sir Rodric can also post a reaction. He's be aware of the guests that Cedwyn greeted personally, so if he's got his eye on someone, he can attempt a roll to make contact, using an appropriate skill of his choice (intrigue, romance, courtesy, flirting, orate, etc). That goes for Cedwyn as well - if he spies a likely lasy he's interested in, he can attempt a roll to get her attention.]
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[Also there are other available ladies, so if you want to just attempt a general "wife trawling" roll using a skill of your choice, you can make a roll and see what your fishing comes up with as potentially interested ladies.]
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[OOC: the dice hate me...got a 15 for Courtesy versus a skill of 12. What are the consequences of a bad Orate roll?]
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You mess up the speech. Instead of inspiring or memorializing, you trip over the words and mix up imagery, that sort of thing. It's not a crit fail, so you don't insult anyone or anything like that.
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[And it would fit with the image of a nervous young lord...unless I get lucky...]
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[Courtesy roll result 6 vs 8, success]
Rodric glanced around the table at all the seated guests. The turnout was quite impressive. As were a number of the ladies present, a good as time as any to begin courting for a wife. As he caught their glances, he returned a warm smile and slight nod as he looked for some measure of interest from them.
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[OOC: Waiting for Corey to post opening remarks, and let me know what his wife-hunting strategy will be.]
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Cedwyn stood at the feast. Though he was trying his hardest to hide it, he was the epitome of a nervous young lord at his first feast. Rodric probably noticed it as did others who knew him...Cedwyn was going to attempt to be flowery.
"My lords and ladies. Brother knights! My thanks to you for coming to my humble hall in this our feast of celebration," Cedwyn paused for effect, "We celebrate the summer of battle! We celebrate turning back the Saxons! We celebrate the good fortune of Winterbourne Stoke in this year. We celebrate His Lordship Earl Roderick!"
Another pause, and he continued, "We honor our brothers-in-arms, but especially Sir Amig, who taught many of us well. We honor those who have gone to God in His Glory."
"But especially, we honor his Lordship, for without his generous offer none of this," Cedwyn spread his arms, indicating the feast, and the obvious changes happening to Winterbourne Stoke, "would have been possible."
"And now, we honor our ultimate Lord," Cedwyn bowed his head, "God above. Heavenly King of All. Grant us thy bountiful goodness. Bless our homes and hearths. Bless our children and wives. Grant us a bountious harvest and gentle winter. Shelter us from the ice and wrack. Grant us strength of conviction and arm to cast out the Saxon horde. In your Name, we pray. Amen!"
[Orate failed...roll of 9. Greater than 5. Will take a random roll for wife trolling]
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[OOC: I need to know what skill you're going to troll with. :) You have a few options. Courtesy works, as does Dancing. Romance and Flirt are great choices (for theme, not necessarily skill), buy you could also use Dancing. You could also use Hunting (in the form of bragging) though the DC targets would be higher. Women in this game aren't usually that impressed with boasting.
Keep in mind the skill you use has an impact on the rest of the world. Not necessarily a bad thing, but the skill you use to find a wife will impact the impression others have of you in knightly society. For example, someone who flirts their way to a wife will be perceived differently than someone who woos her with poetry, and that would be different that someone who wins a wife through Courtesy.
As for Ken, the roll is random, but I'm using the skill you use to attract a potential mate as a means of getting more than one opportunity. Do well with whatever skill you choose, and you may have more than one option.]
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[ooc: courtesy]
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The dinner Cedwyn had prepared is nothing compared to the Earl's Christmas feast, but it is very well done, with exotic foods shipped in. He's clearly hired extra servants to be able to hands the large crowd that now dines under the canopy outside on the manor grounds. Braziers are lit to ensure the evening chill does not dampen anyone's spirits. Several minstrels and jongleurs provide quiet entertainment while dinner is on. It is a good meal, and the best one either Cedwyn or Rodric have eaten since being knighted. Cedwyn seems to have impressed the powerful of the County, with several of the important knights stopping by to clasp his shoulder and say a few words.
As the meal winds down both Rodric and Cedwyn, the Earl's command on their minds, start eyeing the crowd for eligible ladies. As the dinner starts to break up, and the minstrels switch to livelier music to encourage dancing, the party breaks up into knots of conversation. Both of the young knights attempt to impress the ladies with courtesy and manners. Rodric is somewhat successful, and appears to make an impression with two of the ladies present. Cedwyn, however, appears to live up to his family's reputation for courtesy, and as the dancing starts has a crowd of young ladies hanging on his words. Rodric cannot help but be impressed at his friend's smooth manners.
[splitting to your private threads for a bit.]
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The evening wears on. Cedwyn notices his friend is spending significant time with the young beautiful daughter of the esquire Cedrych, a servant of the Earl who was elevated for some service to the family. They seem to be getting on well, and Cedwyn watches as the father and Sir Rodric shake hands, apparently having come to some agreement.
Other eyes watch the exchange as well, some approving, some disapproving. While such a union would not be particularly advantageous for Sir Rodric, it is not awful either. And the beautiful young Habren is certainly a pleasant sight.
As the evening wears on, Earl Roderick rises and thumps the table before him.
The crowd grows quiet, and the Earl surveys the crowd.
"Sir Cedwyn, I wanted to take a moment to thank you for a fine feast. I have dined at Winterbourne Stoke many times, but never have I had such a splendid meal here. I know there is a certain... burden... you hosting myself." There are a few laughs from the crowd. "An Earl does not travel alone, of course. But the hospitality of your house has been more than sufficient for such a worthy challenge. So thank you for your hospitality and courtesy."
He pauses here as the crowd joins in mile cheering and agreement with the Earl's words.
When the crowd quiets down, he continues. "I have been asked why I would take time away during such a busy season to visit the home of a vassal. Let me provide a universal answer to this question: Sir Cedwyn, along with Sir Rodric and the late Sir Gywn are knights of exceptional courage. Merlin himself spoke to me of their valour under conditions that would steal the heart of lesser men. All three knights were thought lost in the battle of Mearcred Creek in service to our King Uther. These knights ended up in the clutches of a foul Saxon witch, intended to be sacrifices for magic of the blackest sort, but through the Grace of God have returned to us.
"Though I did not witness their deeds of valour, the word of Merlin is trusted by our king and I follow his example. But I would hear this tale of valour from your own mouths." Earl Roderic extends a hand to Sir Cedwyn and Sir Rodric. "My good knights, share with us the story, that it may glorify god and inspire the knights of the County by your example."
All eyes turn towards Cedwyn and Rodric as the Earl takes his seat.
[I leave it to you guys to tell the tale. Earl Roderick is giving you a command, and opportunity, to entertain the crowd. Take turns or let one of you do the telling. Feel free to ask for time to confer if you wish, but the Earl will hear the story in this public setting.]
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Cedwyn gave Rodric a nod and began to speak.
"God's grace was certainly upon us. In that last charge, I saw Sir Rodric fall just before the world went black for me as well. I know not how long we were unconcious but when we awoke, our wounds were gone and we were shackled against the wall with who now I can only surmise was Merlin (though he called himself Powell). Someone must have used magic to heal us for neither our hair nor beards had changed much...so it could not have been long since the battle."
"Somehow, he had come by a key and we were able to use it to free ourselves. We used straw to hide the fact we had freed ourselves so when the guards came to take away Merlin we came upon them from behind and struck them down. We took their weapons...just some axes and a dagger and made our way out."
It was then that Cedwyn's voice took a sad turn, "There were other good men of Cymru held there as well. It is my regret that we left them in the dungeon as Merlin led us to destroy the Saxon witch."
"Her we found with a Cymric man strapped to a table for some sort of foul sorcery. Her guards outnumbered us, but they were no Knights of Cymru! With weapons in hand, Merlin fought the witch whilst we battled her guards."
Cedwyn looked to Rodric to tell the next part of the tale.
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"Battling them?!" Rodric questioned in an amused tone looking at Cedwyn.
"Only Gwynn and I were battling them." the knight first turned to Earl Roderick before glancing among the other guests.
"You should have seen this man. There was no battle where he was concerned, he was cutting the saxon filth down like a farmer would cut wheat. And all he had was a dagger!
Gwynn with the other dagger we had taken from the guards and was holding her own. I on the other hand was left to a saxon axe. A clumsy weapon I must say, that definitely took some adjusting. Still, I am a knight, trained by a master in combat," Rodric gave a nod to Earl Roderick, as the 'master in combat' he had just spoken of.
"So the axe did find its way deep into saxon flesh.
We had felled a few of the guards when Merlin had yelled at us about a weapons rack on the wall. To our surprise, there were a number of swords there, likely taken from the brave knights held captive in the dungeon." The man paused as his tone became more playful.
"And our swords were likely there as well." he joked before turning more serious again.
"Now as we all know, a knight with a dagger is one thing, but put a sword in his hand...well it was all but over for the guards. In moments all that was left was the witch...and her snake."
Rodric paused here turning things back over to Cedwyn.
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Cedwyn's tone turned sad again as he continued, "Sir Gwyn, valiant and brave Sir Gwyn, had been struck down by then. Sir Rodric and I were separated by falling debris of the fight between the witch and Merlin. He struck at the snake; I, however, could strike at the witch!" he ended with a note of defiance in his voice, standing tall and broad with his arms upraised, his body tense like about to join battle
"I made a prayer to God to guide my hand and leapt across the room as Sir Rodric struck the snake with his cold iron. The witch gasped in enough pain that she did not notice me and I struck as hard and true as my strength allowed. My blade pierced her black heart and she fell to her knees," Cedwyn nearly roared triumphantly, "She began to try and curse me but just at the moment, Merlin's snake leapt across the room. I almost had no time to duck afore it slammed into the witch, cleaving her in twain!"
Cedwyn visibly relaxed now, "But the danger remained. Merlin's magic had sealed the doors of the hall but the Saxons were trying to beat down it," his cadence slowed and his tone became regretful, "Sir Gwyn had fallen. Merlin and Sir Rodric were both spent. I nearly so. We had little real choice. We could face the Saxons and die or leave and live. There was nothing we could do for our countrymen, held in that foul place," Cedwyn's shoulders slumped now in defeat.
"Being of the most health, I gathered up brave Sir Gwyn's body and we followed Merlin down a corridor. It was the same one we had entered by, but it was not the same. Merlin led us to a door and we went through...to King Uther's tent!" Cedwyn's voice carried the shock and surprise that he'd felt on that day...uncanny as the experience had been, "Yet when we looked behind. There was no door; only the curtains of His Majesty's pavillion!"
"As for me, I still possess that blade and will pass it down to my son. Forever shall it be known as Witchbane, God's grace having shone upon us in fighting that foul creature."
He nodded to Rodric for any details or information he'd missed.
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[orate failure...rolled an 11 against a skill of 5]
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[orate roll result 18 vs skill 10. Failure.]
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The two knights do a fairly good job at retelling the tale. Both Sir Rodric and Sir Cedwyn stumble over there words here and there, which detracts a little from the tale. However, the subject matter is fairly dramatic, so you have an appreciative crowd. The crowd is particularly appreciative when Sir Cedwyn mentions Witchbane.
When the approvals have died down, Earl Roderick rises once again. "Sir Cedwyn, I thank you once again for a lovely evening. Alas, I must make an early start in the morning, so I must retire." To the rest of the company, he adds, "I bid you all a good evening." You are about to escort the Earl to his quarters when Hadyn appears at the Earl's elbow.
"My lord Earl, it would be my pleasure to show you and your party to your rooms."
Earl Roderick smiles at Haydn. "Thank you, squire. That would be acceptable."
The room rises as the Earl departs the pavilion. Once he is gone, Sir Cedwyn is kept busy saying good night, as numerous other guests make their good-byes and head to their camps. Sir Amig in particular takes a moment to clasp hands with both Cedwyn and Rodric, pride in his eyes as he looks at the two of you. "You must let me see Witchbane ere I depart, Sir Cedwyn," he says with a smile.
In a matter of minutes, most of the guests have departed. A few remain - too drunk or happy to turn in quite yet. Cedwyn notices the Lady Habren and her father have remained behind, and the lady's eyes often turn to Sir Rodric. The most notable individual still at the feast is Lady Elaine, a member of the Earl's party who seems to have not left with him.
[Anything you guys want to do? It's a good time for quiet conversation if there is anything the two of you wish to discuss.]
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Cedwyn came over, wine in his left hand and put his right over Rodric.
"Sir Rodric. She is a fine lass."
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A small smile came across Rodric's face, but it was obvious he was keeping a bigger one at bay.
"Indeed she is." he replied.
"And what of you? You managed to attract quite the crowd. I was sure I even saw you leave with one for a while."
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Cedwyn shrugged.
"Lady Ysbail was interested but not terribly. It may yet work out. Perhaps I will see her again at the Earl's feast."
He nodded towards the Lady Elaine.
"And the Lady yet lingers. Odd."
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"I have no doubt you could fan the flames of her interest if you chose to.
You certainly capture the attention of many quite easily." he gave his friend a smile before glancing over to Lady Elaine.
"I to think it odd. But if the rumors are true, she may prefer the quiet.
Perhaps she would enjoy your company."
-
Cedwyn shruggged, "Attention yes...luck no."
He gave a sidelong glance at Lady Elaine, "Beautiful. Rich. I doubt she'd be interested in the likes of me. Poor...moderate looking."
-
"One never knows. In any event I doubt she would decline the company of her host.
And at the very least I am sure she would appreciate some kind words from a kind soul."
-
"Are you trying to start a scandal, good Sir?" Cedwyn said winkingly.
"Though I suppose a good host should greet her."
-
"Nothing like a good scandal to make a great party even more memorable." Rodric replied with a chuckle, though his smile faded and he turned a little more serious before continuing.
"Whether the rumors hold any truth or not, she has traveled here with the Earl has she not? I do not think he would not keep her in his company if there was anything sinister in her nature."
-
The minstrels finish a song, and after a moment take up another one - a quiet instrumental, appropriate to the waning hours of a party.
From out of nowhere, Haydn appears with a carafe of wine.
[Cedwyn makes a mental note that he seems to appear from nowhere with startling regularity.]
"With 4 manors under her control, Earl Roderick certainly has an interest in seeing her married to a loyal knight. That is unlikely to happen if she is not out in society - no other family has invited her to any events since her husband's death. Doubtless that is why she was brought to this event as a member of the Earl's party. I have heard rumours that she herself instigated the murder of her husband, so many keep their distance from her socially. I have seen no one but the Earl speak to her this entire night."
Hayden stops and bows his head. "Forgive my impertinence, my lords. It is not my place to gossip about my betters. Please pay my comments no mind." He refills both your cups, and stands dutifully nearby, apparently to serve Cedwyn's needs as required.
Haydn's presence brings something to mind. Sir Rodric has not seen Suger for a couple of hours. Searching his memory, the last time he saw Suger, the squire was chatting up a female jongleur.
-
Cedwyn sighed. He felt a certain bit of sympathy for Lady Elaine.
"Perhaps a friendly voice will do her good then. After all, scriptures have much to say on mercy."
Cedwyn poured a goblet of wine for Lady Elaine and made his way over to her.
"Lady Elaine. May I join you?"
-
She looks up at you and smiles. You can see she has the watery eyes and small uncontrolled movements of someone who has perhaps imbibed overmuch. Her voice is steady and clear, however.
"Sir Cedwyn. Whatever your purpose in speaking to me, I welcome the company and distraction. And, since my mug is empty and I see you carry two, you are doubly welcome sir. Please, sir with me."
Cedwyn notices one of the Earl's squires lurking about not too far away, obviously assigned to keep an eye on lady Elaine. He seems to recall the young man's name is Agned, though he's not sure.
-
"Of course, my Lady," Cedwyn said, glancing at the squire that he should come hither with the slightest of nods, "I thought I would come greet you personally. How was your evening?"
-
She eyes you up a moment as if trying to get a read on you. "It was pleasant enough. I had the opportunity to dine here as a guest of your father when I was a young girl. You have outdone yourself, Sir Cedwyn."
The squire comes over. "Yes, M'lord?"
Without looking at him, Lady Elaine says, "Ah, my shadow speaks at last." She gives you a wry smile.
-
[OOC: trying for subtext...that Agned should make sure the lady has no more wine than what I have given her...Cedwyn doesn't wish to have her be made a fool of...and that he should stand by]
"Agned, yes?" Cedwyn asked, "Have you been able to assist Lady Elaine? A Knight skulks not in the shadows, but rather stands proudly before his lord and his God. Or those he has been designated to assist," he added, his eyes (pointed away from Elaine, glanced down at her wine cup and have a slight shake of the head, hoping the boy got the message that the Lady should be cut off).
To Lady Elaine, Cedwyn replied, "Thank you, my Lady. My father was a good man. It was he who made this feast possible with the capture of Peredur in battle. It is a sad day that he is not here to celebrate. I am afraid that I must apologize to you as well that I greet you now in this late hour. Twas unchristian of me not to speak to you first after greeting his Lordship."
-
The squire seems to get the message, and takes a seat at the lady's elbow.
"Of, you were polite enough at the reception line, of course. That alone was refreshing. It has been some time since I was welcomed anywhere. No doubt - No Doubt - you are aware of the rumours surrounding my late husband." She finishes her cup and sets it down. Agnad, with some skill in subtlety, removes the cup from sight without her noticing.
"So I wonder why a handsome young knight like yourself deigns to speak to a pagan widow suspected of inciting murder? Some act of christian charity perhaps?" She waves a hand. "Do not take offence - I appreciate your company, I really do. It is hard sometimes to keep bitterness from a tongue loosened by fine wine." She smiles.
-
Cedwyn nodded, "I would not call it charity, my Lady, but I have heard the rumors. I came in part because I hoped my presence sitting next to you and sharing a cup of wine...a young Knight who had just battled a witch and escaped...would help you by making the rumors die down more quickly."
"And to hear your telling of the tale if you wish it known. The rumormongers spread their gossip, but it is scandalous and definitely not worthy of a knight's time."
[Cedwyn is trying to be kind and gracious...he is genuinely interested in hearing her story, hoping that if the rumors are presented to him, his word might carry some weight as well.]
-
She looks at you levelly for a few moments. "I find myself believing you, sir. I am unaccustomed to such kindness. The tale then, if you wish to hear it."
She glances around, but cannot seem to locate her cup. Putting it out of mind, and clasps her hands before her on the table and gazes down at them.
"You should know, Sir Cedwyn, that I am not a Christian. I respect God and his followers, but I follow the Old Ways. My former husband was Christian. He was a good man, and I was a dutiful wife, but in many things our faith disagreed. We managed to keep a civil house, but there were points of friction.
"One spring equinox, he was absent for the fertility celebration. For a pagan, there are few celebrations more important. With my husband gone, I took another man to my bed to honour the old ways. The man I chose was a trusted servant, faithful and true. But behind his smiles and loyalty lurked a darkness and jealousy neither my husband or I ever suggested. He fell in love with me, or so he professed ardently the next morning. Out of loyalty to my husband, I put him off, of course. He became sullen, but let the matter lie. I thought that was the end of it.
"Later that spring, my husband returned from garrison duty. The first night, he took me to his bed. While we slept, the servant crept into the room and took my husband's life by foul murder. There, with my husband's blood soiling the marriage bed, and a bloody dagger in his hand, he once again professed his love for me, claimed to have freed me from my marriage obligations, and bad me take him as a husband. My screams summoned my husband's squire, who struck the servant down.
"After, the Earl's Marshall investigated, and the servant was put to death, hung by the neck before the doors of our home. I was not charged with any crime, but nor was I exonerated. The stigma of that spring has hung about my head ever since, and yours is the first kindness I have been shown. Even my peasants hate me know, and my vassals are barely civil."
She stops and sighs. "So there you have the whole sorted tale, Sir Cedwyn. So answer me, what think you?"
-
Cedwyn listened intently. Different faiths...but Merlin had aided them and was a good man.
"You followed your faith as best you could; there is no fault in you,.I think that my God and your gods know your heart and all have absolved you," Cedwyn replied, "I truly believe so, my Lady. I've known many brave and valiant men of the Old Faith, my companion Sir Gwyn was one such. Merlin saved our lives and brought us home safely. We Christians have a difficult time understanding it; myself, I am only two generations removed. Twas my grandsire who converted...well his sire really. But our beliefs can make trouble from time to time."
Cedwyn turned thoughtful.
"Come the morn. We should break our fast together. Where you can be seen dining with a good Christian knight. 'Tis my hope that will go a long way to breaking these foul rumors. I won't bore you with the details but our Faith places a great deal of emphasis on helping those in need, and it is part of a Knight's duty, especially so when the aid needed is not so obvious."
He paused and added, "Vassals are one issue, but the peasants. I believe they can be easily appeased. A good harvest should keep them happy. Perhaps throwing a feast or giving them a new well will help. [ooc: and whatever Courtesy might suggest would work on her vassals.]
-
Her eyes shine when she looks up at you.
"Sir Cedwyn, you are the first kind soul I have met since my husband's murder. Do you..." she pauses then lowers her eyes. "Never mind. It was an idle thought best not spoken aloud. You truly are a kind soul to make such an offer. But do you have no concern for you reputation? There will be scandal for you to be seen with me - you already risk such exposure, though you may shield yourself somewhat by claiming you were simply being a courteous host."
-
Cedwyn offered a wan smile.
"I know. But God will sort things out. The Christ teaches that we must love our neighbors as ourselves and (to paraphrase somewhat) it is a Christian's duty to go among those who need His love, not those who already have it. He also teaches that only those without sin may cast the first stone. Gossip and rumormongering is unchristian to say the least."
He smiled and added, "I can trade on my status as a Knight of the King and the renown of having help slay a Saxon witch. My story is well known now."
-
She seems thoughtful. "True, your star is rising."
She is quiet a moment.
"You feel no fear of censure, and you have been the only kindness I have seen in years. I wonder if I might impose upon your good will further?"
-
"I am at your service, my lady."
-
"The Earl commands that if I have not found a husband by the spring solstice, he will give me and my lands away as a prize. I have little hope of attracting any man in Salisbury, and scare any better from beyond. I wonder if you would find me an acceptable wife?"
She quickly adds, "I am a woman of means - heiress to four manors with vassals and lands of my own. All this would pass to you one our wedding day. You could be a bannerett, Sir Cedwyn, and add my manors to your own! Your have grand plans for Winterbourne Stoke, and I admire them, but imagine what you could so with the additional resources of four manors?"
She pauses for a breath before adding breathlessly, "I am a pagan yes, but loyal and true once I pledge myself! Outside of the rites, you have nothing to fear! I am older, perhaps, that the young ladies you were speaking to earlier, but I have years left in me to bring you many heirs and have the experience of managing the affairs of four manors. I have much to offer ..."
She voice trails off, and she blushes.
"I sound as a beggar to your ears, desperate for a husband. But that is not so! I would chose my own destiny, and bind myself to a husband of my own will rather than be a pawn in the Earl's politics! Would you allow me that dignity? To choose whom to give my loyalty to, and with whom to share the marriage bed? I would not be traded like a prize horse, but chose my own fate if I could."
-
Cedwyn nodded. He understood the desire to control her fate and life, even if it was only in who her husband would be.
"My Lady. I would ask that you take the night to think on this and we can speak of it again in the morn. You've had a wine aplenty and if men can be made fools of by drink then so can a woman. I do not want to take advantage," his tone was kind and gentle. She seemed like a fine woman, caught up in a bind by her faith in the old powers and a fool of a servant. But he needed to think as well. The frictions she'd had with her husband likely would also be frictions for them as well.
Big question: was it worth it?
-
She looks at you for a moment before she starts to weep. "Truly you have a good heart, Sir Cedwyn! You embody a kind of nobility all to rare in these times!"
She takes a moment to compose herself, and with shining eyes she says, "Allow me to make you a counter offer then: when it is time to break fast, if you see me in the Earl's party, then my desires have not changed and you will know my heart is committed. If you invite me to dine with you, then I will know you are agreeable. If either of us has thought better of this, then the matter can drop with no loss of face for either."
She offers you a hand. "For my part, my heart will not have changed, and you will see me in the Earl's party. Your kindness has released pain bound in my heart that I did not know I was holding. For that alone, I would bind myself to you, if you would have me. But let us see how we feel in the morning, yes? Do we have a deal?"
-
Cedwyn nodded.
"We have an agreement, my Lady."
[Critic Success on Awareness roll. 10 against a 10.]
-
[OOC: Her tears seem to be genuine tears of joy and hope. You sense some scheming on her part, but it seems to be genuinely to thwart the will of the Earl and determine in some small way her future fate.]
-
She rises then, taking your hand. "Until morning, then." Her manner changes slightly as she turns to the squire. "Come, shadow. Help me to my chambers."
The squire rises and bows to you before departing with the lady.