Pendragon
Role-Playing => Adventures => Topic started by: GM Craig on July 12, 2015, 02:20:38 PM
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Word reaches you that Prince Madoc plans to take an army to harass and raid the Saxons around Colchester. This brings with it the promise of fighting, plunder and glory, so it is with great anticipation that the knights of Salisbury assemble in Sarum in late spring. You are disappointed, however.
The Earl is indeed assembling a muster for the King, but several knights are selected for garrison duty. Sir Rodric and Sir Cedwyn are numbered among them. Their levy and troops are assigned to patrol the borders of the County, man fortresses and the city, and safeguard the manors of other knights. Ostensibly, the Earl says it will allow for more time spend at your with your wives to father heirs, but you cannot help feeling disappointed. Were you not heroes in the last campaign, valiantly defeating a vile witch? It is hard not to have a heavy heart as you set yourselves up in Sarum and organize your forces to protect the county.
It is in Sarum, shortly after you take your posts, that word reaches you of an armed party of approximately 150 is moving into Salisbury from the south. The information is unconfirmed, and not from a reliable source. The ranking knight, Sir Bar, orders you to the field to investigate.
Sir Bar is a bear of a man, and a little slow. He is a solid knight, however, and a member of the Earl's inner court - strong an obedient. His is able to be swayed by convincing argument, apparently trusting that others are smarter and wiser than he, which is often the case.
With your marching orders, prepare to ride south.
[OOC: I need to know who and what you are taking with you - Sir Bar has only ordered you to investigate and report back, but if you wish to, you could convince him to let you take a portion of your levy with you. Best guess puts the party about a hard day's ride away, two days at least if you travel in force.]
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[intrigue roll: 8 versus skill of 6. fail.]
Cedwyn clapped Rodric on the back.
"I say we go have a little adventure for ourselves and find out who is acoming our way."
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"Possibly one hundred and fifty saxons against the two of us? We should leave our swords at home to give them a chance." Rodric laughed.
"We should keep our party as small as possible." he continued, turning more serious.
"If this is simply to scout, I would say a dozen at most unless you foresee a need for a larger number."
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Cedwyn shrugged, "If indeed this is a raiding party, we need to know more. Speed is of the essence. Haydn and Suger would be sufficient in this. God's teeth...we don't even know if the rumor is true. It could be some peasant's fever dream."
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Rodric was conflicted, speed was indeed of the essence, but if they were caught, the extra men would be very valuable. Finally he gave a nod of assent.
"Very well. If a battle ensues, then we shall just have to fight like a dozen men ourselves." he said with a smile.
"Suger, ready our horses."
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Cedwyn nodded to Haydn, "You as well, Haydn. Prepare Peredur and Swift."
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It is not half a glass later and you are thundering out of the main gates. Peredur chomps on his bit to stretch his legs, but it would not do to get too far separated, so Sir Cedwyn reins him in to a pace that is healthier for the other horses in the party.
[I need Awareness rolls from both of you, and if you succeed, a recognize roll.]
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[OOC: Taking some liberties.]
Several hours of hard riding later, you crest a hill and rein in sharply. In the valley below you you see a group of some 200 souls marching north. You can clearly see mounted warriors among the party, and it certainly looks like a raid - and a large one.
Cedwyn curses under his breath and says, "A Saxon raid, and a large one at that!"
Sir Rodrick squints a moment and says, "I think not. Saxons yes, but look! I see no more than half a dozen warriors on horseback and no more than a dozen more on foot. And look at the main force? I see women - some carrying babes - and youngsters among them. And their condition - they are dirty, many are wounded or injured. I do not know why they are here, but it is not to make war. This is no raid. "
[Actions?]
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Cedwyn uttered a mild curse, "Damn me for a fool, Sir Rodric. You're right. They are running from something. They can't be left to run around though. We should make contact and discover their intentions."
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"By the looks of the group, I would guess their intent is to seek refuge. But why would Saxons seek refuge here?" the knight wondered. Surely they would know that it was highly likely they would be attacked on sight.
"It may very well be fortunate for them that we have discovered them. And I agree, we should indeed make contact. I will defer to you in that regard Sir Cedwyn."
[OOC: Recognizing that Cedwyn seems to be better in social matters than he is, and of course deferring because Cedwyn's glory is higher.]
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Cedwyn said to Haydn, "Haydn...please raise my pennant and tie a parley flag with it. Let's see who these people are."
[ooc: assuming Haydn hasn't done that already...if he has I compliment on his insight and good thinking. Once Rodric's colors are up, let's head down.]
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Sir Cedwyn turns to give the instruction to Haydn and finds the boy is already in the process of doing exactly that.
As you ride down, two mounted warriors from the group break off and move to meet you. They are armed, but their weapons are not being brandished. The two of them - one male and one female - appear to be about the same age as Suger and Haydn. Both are armed and outfitted as warriors, though the female has a drum strapped to her saddle.
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The group of Northmen have been heading steadily north, looking for the kingdom of Logres. You have been watchful and careful, because you've been seen by a few locals who have run away in terror. That alone has made you questions the wisdom of this decision, but when you try to discuss it with Holmg?r?r, she merely says, "We must hold to this course."
So, some days later, it is with no small amount of trepidation when you see four men in Crymric mail riding down to you. The two older have swords at their sides, but they remain sheathed. The two younger ones each carry a bundle of spears tied to their horses, and each carries a small flag with some sort of pattern (each one different). One of the flags has a white pennant flying below the flag, but you've no idea what the significance is.
Holmg?r?r nods in their direction and says, "You must go out to meet them. I will remain here in case they are hostile - we must not deprive our people of all their leaders, hmm?" She seems fairly light-hearted given her words.
Arne and Valka break away from the rest of the group and ride up to the four warriors. The two older are obviously in charge - the younger ones (who appear to be about the same age as Valka and Arne) are obviously subservient. They still carry swords, however, and appear to know how to use them.
[OOC: All of you go ahead and describe yourselves (and your squires if you have them), and post whatever greeting you wish to make. For simplicity sake, you can understand one another.]
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Valka slightly turned her head to Arne as they rode closer. <What does that white flag mean? Are they in trouble?> she asked. <If this go wrong, I suppose we could tell them we're Northmen traders.>
OOC: Valka is about 5'4" and 120lbs (or around there). The leather Saxon armor doesn't fit her very well and is likely made for a man's build. She is rather dirty but her strikingly fire-red long hair stands out against everything else. A round shield is strapped to her back and a spear to the side but not in hand.
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Arne shook his head, mystified. "<I don't think they're in trouble.>" He thought for a moment, then chuckled. <"Maybe they're here to see if we're trouble. Many of us are wearing Saxon armor and carrying Saxon weapons. Ha! No wonder those villagers ran screaming from us! But these warriors haven't attacked us, so that's good. The white flag, though? Well, let's stop and introduce ourselves first, yes? I'd like to know what that flag means, too.>"
As they got closer, Arne brought his horse to a halt and raised his right hand in a salute. In accented Cymric, he called out, "Hail, Cymric warriors! I am Arne Torvaldson, and this is Valka Ingarsdotter, late of Thule, from Thelemark of the kingdom of Ostland!" Here, he smiled broadly, and added, "And we are no friends of the dung-eating Saxons, this I swear!"
OOC: Arne is about 5' 9" and about 170 lbs. He has short blonde hair that's very closely cropped at the temples, and his eyes are pale blue. He's wearing Norman chain-mail, and has a scabbarded longsword belted to his waist. Attached to a carrying harness on his horse is a Nor'man shield, a brace of spears, and a Norman great axe. Oh yes, and he also looks like he's been on the road for a long time. ;)
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[ooc: Cedwyn is about 5'6" and 134lbs. He's average in appearance, not overly handsome nor ugly...but his long curly red hair is somewhat striking. His pennant is a field of blue with a red stripe top left to bottom right, emblazoned with a tree in fruit. Ken...Craig...I'm assuming since my Glory is higher I speak for us. If that is not the case, then I'll edit as appropriate.]
"Hail to you, Arne Torvaldson. I am Sir Cedwyn of Winterbourne Stoke and this is Sir Rodric of Falt. Our squires, Haydn ap[insertdad] and Suger ap[insertdad]. We welcome to you to the Kingdom of Logres and the County of Salisbury in the name our of King Uther Pendragon and Count Roderick."
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"Greetings," Valka chimed in, nodding to the knights. "Our good people ran afoul of the Saxons while on a holy pilgrimage and were deceived, captured, and enslaved. We escaped and rescued many but unfortunately there are many more in Saxon hands. We wish to find shelter and allies, and our warriors seek vengeance upon our mutual enemy."
Her Nor'man accent is very thick but clear and well-spoken.
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Cedwyn nodded. It seemed the girl, Valka, considered herself on par with the boy, Arne. Interesting. He wondered how she would react if he addressed the boy directly in response.
"The Saxon are a foul and ignoble lot, preying on those who are defenseless. You are safe enough for now, though your band has many woman, children, and wounded," while he seemed to respond to Valka, Cedwyn was notably addressing Arne but there seemed to be a sense of anticipation from, "What are your intentions in these lands, Arne Torvaldson?"
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Arne's eyebrows furrowed, and his posture stiffened somewhat as the knight refused to look at Valka while he spoke. Did women hold no power in these lands, or was the knight being insulting to Valka? Or both? Shifting his gaze somewhere between Cedwin and the other knight, Rodrick, Arne answered with the faintest trace of brittleness. Gesturing with his hand to include Valka, he said, "As Valka said, we decided to come here and find safety and shelter for our people; perhaps even seek a new home for them in Logres if it's not safe for us to return to Ostland. After that? We will find out who let Saxon slavers into Thule, and take their blood. And we wish to repay the Saxons for the 'hospitality' they showed us."
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Rodric watched the initial exchange with great interest. Were these two truly the leaders of this group? They appeared barely the same age as Hayden and Suger. Perhaps this was the way of the Northerners.
"Arne Torvaldson, Valka Ingarsdotter though you will find safety from the Saxons here, that you wear their garb presents dangers of its own. The hatred of Saxons runs very deep in many of our lands and they may find themselves willing to strike without considering who you truly are.
If you would be willing to remove anything that marks your group as Saxon it would go a long way to insuring your safety, and your acceptance within these lands. You may of course carry it if you choose to, so that you may have it at the ready should you need it."
[OOC: Just a correction for everyone, Rodric has no 'k' at the end. :)]
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[I'm waiting for Shelly to reply ;)]
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Arne turned his attention to Rodric, and nodded his reluctant agreement. "Most of the armor and weapons our people carry was won through battle against their Saxon oppressors, but I can understand your concern and wisdom in this. Your counsel is good, Sir Rodric." Turning to Valka, he smiled and said, "What say you, Valka? Our warriors aren't being asked to give over their spoils of battle, after all."
OOC: Ummm, regarding Arne and Valka's starting equipment. In our back story, I had our "captured" possessions in a series of slavers' wooden chests as a way for us to keep our starting equipment. Or is our starting equipment all going to be Saxon-made?
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Cedwyn spoke up, addressing all present.
"Rather than surrender any spoils of battle. It may be more effective for us to provide escort. No one can mistake lack of hostile intent if you're escorted by us with our pennants flying. It delays our return, but that could be acceptable. We were given no time to return."
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[I'm waiting for Shelly to reply ;)]
So much for that :P
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Valka was about to reply to Arne but was rudely interrupted and her eyes flicked from him and to the knight. It was quite obvious that this Cedwyn held a dim view of women compared to Rodric and she indeed felt slighted. But their people had been on the road for too long.. Valka couldn?t allow her pride to win over securing a future for those men, women, and children that were looking to her.
So she held her tongue instead, through a clenched jaw.
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Arne stole a glance at Valka, and could see the twitch of a muscle along her jaw. No, she was not pleased. Giving Cedwyn a beaming smile, he replied, "No, as Sir Rodric said, our people would not be surrendering any spoils. Having our people remove their Saxon gear and carry it with them is, I think, a very good idea." Here, he turned to give a bow to Sir Rodric. Turning back to Sir Cedwyn, he added, "And yes, Sir Cedwyn, an escort with your pennants is also a very good idea. We would not wish to have the good people of these lands thinking we were Saxons."
Turning to Valka, he smiled with a glint in his eye. "What do you think, Valka? I do not wish to speak for you, since we are both leaders of our people. Anyone that can kill our jailer with his own dagger, free us and another six warriors so that we can kill nearly twenty armed and armored slavers, and then help come up with a plan to free all of our people from another slave camp guarded by forty more armed and armored slavers . . . yes, that is someone I would like to have lead beside me. And you in the thick of all the fighting, with shield and spear. Oh yes, and the two longboats taken, and all of the slavers from both camps now feeding the ravens? Yes, a leader worthy of respect."
Arne waited expectantly for Valka's reply with a serene smile, trusting that the subtle message wasn't lost on the others.
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Cedwyn gave an approving nod at the boy's description of their escape. He also had a small, knowing smile on his face as he watched the Thulian girl's jaw clench at his words. Both Valka and Arne were warriors, not trained Knights as Rodric and he were, but warriors with spirit nonetheless.
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At the knights' suggestion, the Northmen doff their captured gear and stow their weapons. The two knights and their squires then set off, escorting the refugees. At the pace they are travelling, you will not reach Sarum tonight, so you expect to be camping out under the stars. The knights have no equipment or supplies for such an event, but neither do the northmen.
As the afternoon wears on, you start to consider where they might camp. There are no manors nearby, as you are coming up through the Ebbie River valley - fairly rough country. You are still several hours away from the ancient ruins at Borad. With that in mind, the four of you ride on ahead to scout out for a likely place to camp.
While you are riding, you come around a bend in the river and are hailed. Looking, you see a crooked old peasant with long, thin grey hair and wearing a tattered goatskin. When you look at him, he waves you over.
You trot up to him and rein in, Arne and Valka a little behind.
The man has rotten teeth, and one rheumy eye. He has sustained some sort of injury in the past that left his right leg misshapen, and he walks with the aid of a crutch.
The man bows clumsily. "Good an' Noble sirs and lady, knights and visitors to this land by the look of you." He eyes Peredur. "And on such fine horses! Would you earn the blessing of an old, crippled goatherd and grant me a favour?"
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Rodric eyed the old man for a moment before glancing around at their surroundings. The knight continued to defer first contact to Cedwyn, but that was no reason for him to sit idle.
[OOC: Rolled Awareness, result 15 vs skill 10, fail. Was hoping to determine if this was a good spot for any potential ambush, but maybe that determination would be separate from actually spotting one.]
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[OOC: Yeah, there's two questions there. 1) Is there an ambush? and 2) Is this a good spot for an ambush? - give me another Awareness roll.]
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[OOC: Hey, a success! Roll result 3 vs skill 10. :)]
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Cedwyn was a little wary; he heard tales of such requests. A goat herder was not likely bold enough to speak to knights like this.
He offered, "Good fellow. If it is within our powers to help you we will. But, we are escorting a large party of women, children, and injured who are fleeing Saxon slavers, seeking refuge here. We cannot abandon the duty we have taken on."
"I am Sir Cedwyn and this is Sir Rodric. Our squires, Haydn and Suger. At your service."
[ooc: i rolled as well if that means anything. I got a 9 on the first roll and a 10 on the second..both versus a skill of 11. Success for both.]
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Arne bristled as Sir Cedwyn failed to introduce them, but held his tongue. He had noticed that Sir Rodric was paying less attention to the gnarled old man and more to his surroundings. Arne gave Valka an almost imperceptible wink, and dropped his left hand down within easy reach of his shield. His right hand strayed near the hilt of his sword.
OOC: Any rolls I need to make here?
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[OOC: No, Darren, you already gave me an awareness.]
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Ooc : I'll have a reply up this afternoon
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Cedwyn saw Arne stiffen and felt a little shame.
"My apologies. With us, also are Arne Torvaldson of Thule and Valka Ingarsdottir of Thule."
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Arne looked at Sir Cedwyn, a momentary look of surprise. Then a faint smile grew on his face, and he nodded his appreciation to the knight. Looking at the goatherd with a piercing gaze, he gave the man a brief bow. Something about this man had put Sir Rodric on subtle guard, and now Arne was feeding off of that unease.
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"Once again you honor me with your words, Arne. It is an agreeable plan. I believe our warriors will comply, save for the Saxon mead they spilled blood for."
<time warp!>
Valka smiled to Arne and her hands also strayed to shield and weapon. While she appreciated the introduction, her eyes wandered elsewhere into the valley. Honesty was extremely valued, but giving the fine details of the makeup of their people to a stranger made her uneasy. They had many warriors to protect the children and others but it was unfamiliar and rough territory with little defenses.
OOC: Valka Awareness
1d20 <= 4
5 ... failure
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All of you scan the area with an appraising eye. This spot would make for a good ambush - you would be caught against the river, with no where you flee to. But none of you see anything threatening in the vicinity.
Cedwyn, however, spots something up the bank and on a hill not far away. A black goat of large size stands on a hill past the banks of the river, lazily munching on grass.
The old man says, "Pleased to meet you, my lords and lady! You are knights of the Earl, yes? I used to serve the earl as chief goatherd, before I crippled my leg. My trouble is this - my goat has gotten away from me. I'm too old to chase after him. Would you do me a great favour and fetch him back for me?"
The man points up the bank towards a nearby hill, less than a hundred yards distant. "That's him right there, stubborn thing. Please fetch him? Just look at the size of him! He's a prize, to be sure! I'll never find the likes of him again, and my herd will suffer greatly for his loss. Please, my lords, help a poor old man?"
[OOC: It is not uncommong for peasants to seek help from knights, and though this man showed a little cheek when asking for help, if he was the Earl's chief goatherd, that would explain his manner. But he is a peasant - a warrior or knight would be under no obligation to render service in this case. Having said that, it is less than a hundred yards away, and will not take you long.]
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"He is a fine beast to be sure. Though, have you lost the rest of your herd as well?" Valka made an obvious point to look around for the rest of the goats. They had not seen any thus far, would they not be nearby if he truly was a herder? Would one leave the herd to slowly fetch a stubborn, wayward one?
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[No other goats are visible.]
"Nay, mistress. I had taken him to another herd to breed. I was on my way home when he got away from me."
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Cedwyn offered the former chief goatherder a friendly smile.
"Yes. We can fetch him for you. What is his name? And...is there anything we should or need know about him? He seems a spectacular creature."
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"His name is Cadarn, m'lord. He is normally a docile beast, unless there's ripe does around. He is my pride and joy. He was gifted to me by the Earl himself when I had to give up my post."
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"Cadarn," Cedwyn repeated, "I wil fetch him for you goodman."
[ooc: go get the goat]
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"Is there a treat he favors that we would use to gain his trust?" Rodric asked, before he followed behind Cedwyn.
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[Anyone else coming? By total Glory, Cedwyn has right of first place over Rodric, but others can follow if they wish. Also Northmen don't much care for "right of first place"]
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"Is there a treat he favors that we would use to gain his trust?" Rodric asked, before he followed behind Cedwyn.
"Nae, m'lord. He'll east most anything. He's got a rop e'round his neck - if you can catch that it should be easy enough to lead him back."
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Valka nodded in reply, thankful it wasn't a whole herd that needed 'fetching.' She turned to Arne. "Shall we come up behind him in case he turns to flee?" She felt it would give them an opportunity to scout further in case either pair were in for a surprise from beast or man.
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Arne watched, highly amused, as both knights prepared themselves to go chase down a goat. Still, there was that lingering doubt that not all was as it appeared to be. Sighing, he nudged his horse forward and shrugged at Valka. "Why do I have a feeling that this goat will make fools of us all?"
OOC: Sorry, I didn't know that our people were about an hour away. Arne will join the goat-cathcing contest.
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Cedwyn and Rodric take off at a trot. Arne and Valka follow a few steps, but break off to come around the hill and try to flank the goat.
"Please don't hurt him, m'lords and lady!" the old man calls worriedly.
Cedwyn and Rodric slow as they get closer. The goat seems unconcerned, sitting there watching the knights approach while ti chews it's cud.
Then, without warning, it spooks and gallops off down the hill. Arne and Valka, coming around the hill, spur their horses into a gallop as Cedwyn and Rodric give chase. That goat is faster than it looks however, and it veers away from the northmen towards the edge of the Blakemoor Wood. In moments the only sign of it's passage is the sound of it crashing through the underbrush.
The forest here is thick with underbrush. You could pick your way on horseback, but the horses certainly would be at a disadvantage (especially Peredur) and travelling at speed would certainly cause injury.
[Actions?]
[If you chose to follow the goat, I'll need hunting rolls.]
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"Come now, are you afraid of a little goat stealing your honor?" she smirked and turned her horse to come around the back of the beast.
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Arne snorted, and refrained from chucking a piece of turf at her. He slowed his horse down to a walk, and watched as Valka played the role of beater. "Be careful," he called out. All right, you miserable goat. You've had your fun . . .
(Hunting: Skill of 4, roll of 19 = fail).
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Cedwyn dismounted and secured Peredur. He waved to the others to join him.
[Hunting: Skill=11; rolled 8. Success.]
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Valka followed suit, patting her horse lovingly as she also secured him close by as indicated.
OOC: Valka hunting (yeah right)
1d20 <= 2
14 ... failure
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OOC: Arne will dismount as well, and tie his horse's reins to a tree.
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OOC: Good thing Cedwyn succeeded. Hunting roll result 18 vs skill 8, failure.
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Cedwyn spots a flash of black through the underbrush and calls out, "This way!" and the four of you crash into the underbrush following him.
You race through the woods for several seconds when you enter a clearing just in time to see the goat rush into some thick brush on the far side. "We've got him now!" says Cedwyn.
Then there is a huge commotion behind you. Started, you turn to see Suger, labouring under a heavy load of Rodric's shield and several spears. He brings himself up short, and looks embarrassed. "I was worried for you, my lord. There might be beasts..."
He is cut off by a goat's scream of pain. Turning, you hear an impossibly heavy tread and the ground shakes a little. An adult tree on the far side of the clearing suddenly uproots and crashes to the ground in a cloud of twigs and leaves. As the dust settles, you see a huge [Well, a small specimen, as giants go, but still massive compared to you] giant step into the clearing. It is holding the goat by the horns while the poor beast kicks ineffectively at the air. The giant lifts the goat to inspect it, and then spots the five of you.
It turns it's huge, misshapen head. You see two eyeballs on the left side of it's face, and a single larger eye on the right. It also has deer horns growing out of it's head. It tosses the goat aside and roars, spittle flying from it's mouth.
[Actions?]
It is 10 yards away from you.
Since you were not expecting combat, you don't have any shields or spears with you, though Suger carried a shield and 3 spears with him. Your other weapons would be handy (swords, daggers, Arne's great axe {though he has to ready it}).
OK, initiative. Fastest move goes first. If two characters are tied, the one with the highest Dex goes first. If they are still tied, GM chooses based on circumstances. I make Initiative to be as follows:
Arne
Valka
Cedwyn
Rodric
Suger
3-eyed Giant
Each round you make take one (1) action, such as move (up to your base movement), attack, ready a shield, pick up a weapon, etc. You can run (double your base move), but then you do not defend yourself or dodge attacks. Drawing a weapon such as a sword is free, but readying a spear or a great weapon is an action.
Cedwyn (and onyl Cedwyn) can see the giant has several hefty boulders close at hand for throwing. If you don't close, you're likely to get a boulder thrown at you. He also has several large trees near at hand, and can easily swing them as huge clubs, but he would need to ready a weapon. However, a creature his size could also deliver a devastating punch. There is also no sign of Haydn. The last time you saw him was about a hundred yards away, at the edge of the trees.
You could attempt to flee, but you'll be hampered by the undergrowth, where he seems to be able to just power through it.
So, over to you. Post actions, round by round. [It may be a couple of rounds before anyone is in range - you need to close 10 yards.]
Questions in the OOC thread please.
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[OOC: I need a Valorous check from everyone please. Failure means you cannot close this round. A fumble means you flee in terror. Due to the ferociousness of this creature, your effective Valour trait is shifted 4 points towards Prudent for this particular roll.]
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[ooc: Cedwyn base Valor=15. Adjust: -4. Target =11. Roll=11. Crit Success. Hoo-rah!]
Cedwyn loosed his blade and cried, "Forward! Warriors! Ware the boulders and trees!"
He leapt forward, angling to get on the beast's right hand side.
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(OOC: Arne base Valor = 16. Adjust -4. Target = 12. Roll = 2 Success. Woop woop!)
Thor's Hammer! What is this foul nightmare? Arne gaped in amazement at the monstrosity before him, but the threat it posed to them all snapped him into action. Grabbing his great axe, he raised it above his head and came at the giant from its left side. "<Freya, guide my axe!>"
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Rodric had to smile and give his head a slight shake as he grabbed his shield from Suger.
"Stay behind me you brave fool." he complimented his squire before raising his shield and turning to the giant.
"Over here you mindless cretin!" he yelled out drawing his sword and waiving it about to draw its attention away from the others in hopes it would allow them to safely close.
[Rodric base Valor 15, adjust 4, target 11. Roll result 7, success.]
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A giant! She hadn't known giants lived outside her homeland. And they look about as fierce as the lore says they are too...
Valka grinned at Arne's battle cry and sped forward herself.
OOC: 12-4 = 8, 1 against 8 valor = success
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[OOC: Ok, first actions - let me know if I have this right.
Arne [Valour Success] readies his axe.
Valka [Valour Success] draws a dagger and moves forward 3 yards (5 more to go until in range).
Cedwyn [Valour Success] draws sword and moves forward 3 yards (5 more to go until in range).
Rodric [Valour Success] takes his shield from Suger and readies it.
That's first actions. Rounds are 1 second long, so every action takes one round.
If everyone can confirm that's what they want to do, I'll post actions for the giant, and we'll move to round 2.]
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Good for Arne.
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Same
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Confirmed. Just looking to draw the giant's attention as well.
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Confirmed! I'm really in the mood to hit something. :)
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A giant! The Northmen tell tales of their great heroes making war with giants! Arne, readies his axe, preparing to do battle. Valka, with either bravado or an overabundance of courage, draws her dagger [!] and rushes forward. Cedwyn does the same with his sword, and Rodric, aided by his overly-prepared squire, straps on his shield, all the while calling out the Giant.
The Giant, seeing two warriors closing, ignores the taunts of Rodric. Reaching over, it rips a smallish tree easily the size of Valka's torso from the ground in a shower of dirt and leaves.
[Actions?]
Remember, one action at a time. Valka and Cendwyn are still 2 moves away from the giant, though it's likely to move this round.
Arne, Valka, and Cedwyn have weapons ready. Rodric can draw his sword as a free action and still move 3 yards.
-
Arne's eyebrows flew up in alarm as he saw Valka charging the giant with naught but a dagger. Raising his great axe high over his head, he rushed the giant with a keening yell, hoping the noise would distract it or draw its attention away from Valka.
-
Cedwyn continued his approach. Angling to get on the right and watching it get the tree ready.
-
"Mind yourself and try to stay behind cover." Rodric said to his squire before drawing his sword and rushing to catch up with the others.
[OOC: Double move.]
-
It would, of course, be Valka's luck that she would end up flattened by a tree the size of herself. She wasn't sure what the gods would say about that other than maybe laugh. That made her decide to pull down her shield from her back and ready it just in case she wasn't limber enough to escape the lumber.
-
Arne rushes forward, close on the heels of Sir Cedwyn. Valka pauses a moment to ready her shield. Sir Cedwyn eager for battle, moves closer to the giant, and Sir Rodric, shield now in place, draws his sword and moves toward the creature.
The giant, tree in hand, moves to intercept Sir Cedwyn, Battle is joined.
[Actions?]
Cedwyn and the giant are within melee distance. I need a Sword roll from Sir Cedwyn.
Arne, Valka, and Sir Rodric are all 4 yards from the giant, so they need at least one more move to get within combat distance.
Following his lord's orders, Suger is trying to stay behind cover, though he looks like he very much wishes to close with giant.
-
Arne continued to close with the giant, but was careful not to get in the way of either Valka or Sir Rodric. A lot of good they would do if the three of them collided with each other before reaching their foe!
OOC: Still closing, but coming in at the creature's left.
-
Cedwyn came at the giant roaring a battle cry.
Part of him wondered what Haydn was up to but the lad was intelligent and thoughtful so Cedwyn trusted him to be doing something clever.
[sword Roll: 13. Versus 16. success. Dmg: 20 (5d6)]
-
Rodric continued to close the distance. He was concerned that Cedwyn had already engaged the giant while the rest of them still had to close, but Cedwyn's skill with the sword was exceptional so he would trust his friend's actions.
[OOC: Continue to close.]
-
Seeing as how the giant was preferring Cedwyn, Valka stole a moment to snap around to Suger and gesture with a hand outreached. "Sugar, spear!" she shouted to him.
-
Arne presses forward and reaches the giant's side on the left. Valka, perhaps re-thinking her dagger strategy, calls for Suger to toss her a spear. The squire, not put off in the slightest, executes a perfect toss, and Valka is able to catch it without breaking her stride, and continues towards the giant, coming up the centre.
The giant takes a swing at Cedwyn, but the knight deflects with his sword and the tree smashes into the ground, spraying turn and leaf mould everywhere. Cenwyn executes a ripost and scores a solid blow in the giant's thigh, eliciting a roar of rage and pain.
Rodric brings up the rear, and manages to squeeze in between Arne and Valka, forcing Arne to make a little side-step to make room.
[Actions?]
Everyone is in combat range now. I need combat checks from everyone.
The giant is focused on Cedwyn for the time being.
| Character | Health |
| Arne | 23/23 |
| Valka | 27/27 |
| Cendwyn | 29/29 |
| Rodric | 28/28 |
| Giant | 50/55* |
*Edit: I forgot to account for the giant's natural armour, which reduces all incoming damage by 15. His health has been increased accordingly.
-
[19 versus a 16. Fail]
Cedwyn swung again but the last attack had left him off balance and he knew the moment he swung that he would miss.
-
Valka would have to commend Suger on such a great toss, as it allowed her to keep momentum and her spear immediately find purchase.
<"For Odin!!!!">
[8 vs 13, success. Dmg: 19 (5d6)]
-
Arne had to make a slight hop out of the way to make room for Sir Rodric, but still managed to bring his great axe whistling down on target.
{Great axe: roll of 13, skill of 16 (15+1 for blessed great axe) = success. Damage of 5d6 (4d6+1d6 for great axe) = 16 pts.}
-
With all four of them now in position to attack Rodric took a swing at the giant. The target was large, but its hide was unnaturally thick. This was going to be a long and painful battle.
[OOC: Sword check roll result 5 vs skill 18, success. Damage 16.]
-
The giant, suddenly surrounded, tries to split his attacks between Arne and his great axe, and Cedwyn the only one who has hurt him so far. Arne takes a swing with his axe, and the giant tries to counter, but is unsuccessful and the axe bites. The thick hide of the giant absorbs most of the blow, however. Valka takes a stab with her borrowed spear, and is ignored completely by the giant. That was a mistake, as the spear does some serious damage, and elicits a roar of pain from the giant that shakes the trees around you. Sir Cedwyn steps in next with his sword, but misses, and the giant responds with a solid strike. The muddy end of the tree hits Sir Cedwyn in the torso. Wood splinters, and Sir Cedwyn is knocked through the air. He lands with a thump and skids into the trunk of a tree where he lies there momentarily stunned and with the wind knocked out of him. He is badly injured, but still in the fight if he chooses to be. Sir Rodric steps up next, and scores good blow on the giant, but again most of the impact was absorbed by the creature's thick hide.
[Actions?]
The giant, having been taught it can't ignore any of you, will not be ignoring Valka next round. It will split equally, so be attacking each of you with an effective skill of 6.
| Character | Health |
| Arne | 26/26 |
| Valka | 27/27 |
| Cendwyn | 7/29 |
| Rodric | 28/28 |
| Giant | 38/55* |
-
Arne watched in awe and dread as the giant caught Sir Cedwyn with the tree and sent him flying through the air. Gripping the haft of his axe, Arne spun like a top and brought his great axe around in a vicious horizontal slash.
OOC: Arghk, I think this die roller does not like me. Or axes. :P Two swings, and now it looks like Arne's blessed great axe is broken. >:(
(Great axe "to hit": roll of 20, skill of 16 = critical failure)
-
Rodric watched in utter disbelief as Cedwyn was sent flying through the air.
"Suger," Rodric called out to his squire when he realized Hayden was no where to be seen.
"Help Cedwyn."
The knight took another swing at the giant, which seemed to be looking to divide its attention to the lot of them now. That was a good sign, its attacks would be clumsier, but unless they could find a way to reliably pierce the giant's hide, this battle could end very badly.
[OOC: Sword check roll result 17 vs skill 18, success. Damage roll 15 (damn it...)]
-
Cedwyn felt horrible, wracking pain all through out.
"Suger..."he tried to stand...but decided to let Rodric's squire help him.
-
[OOC: Cedwyn has sustained a major wound.
1. I need 1d20 <= [current hit points] to remain conscious.
2. I need 1d6 to determine a possible statistic loss.
3. If you are able to remain conscious, you must make a Valorous check (with -4 to the effective target) to continue fighting.
4. Note that Chirurgery is required.]
-
[checks: Consciousness: roll=2. Vs 7. Success. Stat loss. Roll=5. Not fighting this round]
-
[checks: Consciousness: roll=2. Vs 7. Success. Stat loss. Roll=5. Not fighting this round]
[Cedwyn has sustained serious injury to his face that will leave visible scars. -1 APP, effective immediately.]
-
Now Valka saw for herself what brought such incredible lores and battle stories of the giants. An ugly creature to be sure, but magnificent in his own right. And of course, she saw why many a man did not survive their encounters, if Cedwyn was any indication. The young woman wanted to run and help him, but if the giant did not come down, they all might fall anyway. She wrenched her spear out from the wound and attempted it again with a yell.
"Haah!"
[3 vs 13, success. Dmg: 21 (5d6)]
-
[OOC: Took a few liberties for clear actions in the narrative. I still need a Passion roll from Arne, as a crit on the passion roll has some effects.]
Arne, overcome for a moment of the heroics of facing down a giant, finds inspiration in the honour of joining the ranks of the mythic heroes of the Northmen. He takes a powerful swing with his axe, driving it deep into the hide of the giant. The creature howls in pain from the blow, and staggers to his knees. Valka quickly steps in a stab of her spear, and the giant falls to the ground, motionless. The wheeze of air passing in an out of the monstrous chest indicates the creature is still alive. Rodric takes a swing strikes the killing blow, dealing the creature a mortal blow. It lingers on for now, but will die eventually.
Away from the battle some distance, Suger rushes to Cedwyn's side and helps the knight sit up. Stabbing pains in Cedwyn's chest make it difficult to breathe, but he manages to get to a sitting position. His face, however, is a ruin and bleeding freely. Suger starts to do what he can to clean up Sir Cedwyn.
[OOC: 7 rounds before he checks for success.]
[Actions?]
The giant is dying, but you can hasten that journey if you choose.
| Character | Health |
| Arne | 26/26 |
| Valka | 27/27 |
| Cendwyn | 7/29 |
| Rodric | 28/28 |
| Giant | 0/55* |
-
The knight gave his sword a twist for good measure as he pulled it from the giant before running to the side of his friend.
"You have some impressive strength my friend, to survive a blow like that."
The knight placed a hand on the shoulder of his squire.
"And you have earned yourself a great deal of honor and respect."
-
Cedwyn coughed. It hurt.
"Hah! It was glorious! We all earned great honor today," he gave the two northerners a meaningful stare.
"Now...we need to find Haydn. If there was one fell creature here, there may be more."
-
"I would not worry yourself too much, he has shown wisdom beyond his years. We shall likely find him with the old man's goat in tow."
-
Valka wrenched the spear back out again and stared in awe at the still creature. "We killed a giant," She whispered, then shouted in jubilation, and practically leaping to embrace her fellow Northman. "Arne, we killed a giant! A real giant!!"
-
Arne laughed as Valka nearly tackled him to the ground, and gave her a fierce kiss. "Yes, Valka, we did at that! This will be a story to tell our people!" Releasing her - although somewhat reluctantly, he nodded to Cedwyn and said, "Will you help see to our comrade's wounds, Valka? I'll go see to that fool goat, and see if I can find the squire, Haydn."
A sudden idea struck him, and he turned to Sir Rodric with a grin. "Sir Rodric, the giants in your land . . . do they keep treasure?"
-
"Arne Torvaldson. You took the words right out if my mouth. It is likely to have killed quite a few and taken some treasure," Cedwyn wheezed and tried standing, "We should search and see."
-
Before Rodric can answer, you hear happy laughter behind you, coupled with clapping. The old man - no longer bent and crippled, walks into the clearing saying, "Well done! Well done! Such courage! Such valour! Such skill! Very well done indeed!"
As he approaches, a wavering cloud of fog and smoke surrounds him for a moment, apparently seeping from his body and clothes. A few moments later, the fog clears. Arne and Valka do not recognize this man, but Sir Cedwyn and Sir Rodric certainly do.
Merlin.
He gently moves Suger aside and knees beside Cedwyn. He touches the knight's chest and speaks strange words that fade from memory the moment theya re spoken. Slowly, Cedwyn's colour improves, and his ruined face mends, though prominent scars remain.
The man rises and turns to you all.
He smiles when he sees Arne and Valka's gaping mouths. With a small flourish, he sketches a bow and says, "I am Merlin. A pleasure to meet you, Arne Torvaldson and Valka Ingersdotter."
He lets his name sink in for a moment before his mirth vanishes.
He points to Suger, and says, "He will remain here." Indicating Arne, Valka, Sir Rodric and Sir Cedwyn he says firmly, "You four will do. Come with me."
Without another word, Merlin turns and strides off into the trees. You see a thick fog quickly seeping up out of the ground as he walks away. If you do not follow quickly, you will loose sight of him.
[Actions?]
Arne and Valka have heard tales of Merlin the Magician. He is also known as the Archdruid of Britain. He is supposed to be a follower of the Old Ways, and a wizard of great power.
-
Cedwyn stood and motioned, "We should go! Adventure awaits us."
He followed the wizard.
-
Ooc: Consider my reply just before the above..
"Of course," She replied, though glad to see the squire already attending to Cedwyn. Valka didn't Arne go yet. Bringing a hand to his axe she placed it on the side to create a handprint in the giant's blood. She smiled and brought her hand to his face and left several streaks of carmine down it.
"For Freya. "
-
[OOC: Cedwyn's hit points are back to full, and you can clear the Chirugery flag, though the APP loss remains.]
-
OOC: Yup, just before Merlin arrives:
Arne smiled, and also marked her face with the giant's blood. "Yes, for Freya. Perhaps even crusty old Floki will be impressed!"
-
Arne's eyes bugged out in a mix of awe and fear. Merlin himself! Then it was a damned good thing that he didn't speak harshly to the old man! After all, there had been something odd about him. Dropping to a knee, Arne bowed his head in respect and replied, "The honor is all ours, Merlin!
Then the wizard invited the four of them to follow. Encouraged to be included in the same company of such a man - and bolstered even further by Cedwyn's enthusiasm - Arne hastened to keep up.
-
"Return and tend to the horses. If you see Hayden, apprise him of the situation.
I cannot say when we will return." Or honestly if they would all return, he thought.
"Find a suitable place to make camp should it be needed." Rodric gave his squire a parting nod and then followed after the others.
-
You all step into the fog, following Merlin. Several minutes pass as you move quickly through the trees, completely lost in the fog - the only thing you can see is the indistinct shape of Merlin ahead of you. At length you see a brightening.
[Anyone who wishes can give me a Faerie Lore or Awareness roll for some non-critical background information.]
A few steps later, you step out of the fog behind Merlin. The woods you are in are very different from the ones you left - the colours are so vibrant and brighter, somehow.
Merlin, stading before you, peers into the brush. A moment later he says, "There! Protect me now, good knights, for the sake of your king and your lives!"
Out of the brush rides a man with two swords riding on a horse. but something is wrong - both man on horse appear to be covered in dark green slime. The steed is impossibly nimble amidst the trees, weaving and bending in a serpentine fashion, charging forward where your own mounts would most certainly barely be able to walk. The green man looks at the knights, bellows once, and charges.
?Do your job now, knights!? says Merlin, and steps behind you.
You watch in horror as the green slimy warrior sprouts two more arms. The horse rears, the warrior roars, and it charges at you. As it comes at you, the extra arms snap off tree branches to use as makeshift weapons.
[Actions?]
Initiative:
Arne
Valka
Rodric
Cedwyn
Green Slimy Rider
Four of you can attack
-
I'm going to need combat rolls from everyone. The thing is trying to get past you to Merlin.
-
Ooc: let's do the time warp again..
Valka was speechless at the arrival of Merlin. For someone so old and wise and legendary he was certainly a whimsical fellow. She followed suit behind the others but stole one second to run up to Suger.
"You beautiful, blessed man. It was as if Thor himself threw that spear!" She dropped her shield and weapon and surprised him with clapping his face in her hands before planting a quick kiss upon his lips. She slapped him affectionately once more and spun to join the others, picking up her things along the way.
-
[dice love me and hate. 1 on Faerie. Success. 18 on awareness. Fail. And the one that mattered. 18 vs 16. Fail. Twice in a damned row. Will post more reaction stuff on time warp later.]
Cedwyn went to attack and defend himself.
-
OOC: Since we don't have Suger, I'm taking a couple extra spears with me. And I also assume my shield is already ready..
This was a most extraordinary of circumstances. Valka thought perhaps Merlin was leading them back to their charges, but it appeared not. He looked for something instead, this green, slimy swordsman rider - some kind of evil that stalked these woods? Yet another foe that they might have run into with their band. Bolstered by their good fortune with the giant, she was ready.
[Faerie lore 6 vs 2, fail. Awareness 5 vs 4, fail. Spear 18 vs 13, fail.]
-
Arne's eyes narrowed as he raised his sword, and cursed the fact that they had no time to go back to their horses so he could get his shield. Already he was missing the feel of the great axe's familiar haft in his hands. Once the green rider closed to within striking distance, Arne swung his sword in a short, quick arc.
OOC: Sorry for the tardiness. Honor check for the fight with the giant, Awareness check for entering this new place, and Arne's attack/damage rolls with his longsword.
(Honor roll: Honor of 24, roll of 10 = success, but I'm guessing not enough to save the great axe?)
(Awareness roll: Awareness of 5, roll of 13 = fail)
(Longsword "to hit" roll: Longsword skill of 15, roll of 10 = success)
(Longsword damage roll: 5d6 = 23 pts. damage)
-
Rodric tightened his grip on the hilt of his sword as he watched this green slimy warrior sprout two arms and charge them. Once the warrior was within reach he launched his attack.
[OOC: Valka is free to take the other 2 spears from Suger.
Sword check roll 2 vs skill 18, success. Damage 12. Awareness check roll 16 vs skill 10, failure.
Guess I should have rolled the awareness first. :)]
-
As the green rider closes with you, you are surprised to find the limbs appear to act independently. With attacks against four of you, you would expect the rider's attention to be divided, but each strike has the same focus as if he were fighting only one of you.
Arne is up first, and neatly blocks a club strike, responding with a jab of his own spear. Valka is next, but she misses her spear strike. The rider gets in a club attack, scoring a solid hit. Rodric gets in a good strike with his sword. Then Cedwyn tries to get in a strike, but the creature deflects the blow and ripostes and scores a hit. Fortunately for the knight, his armour absorbs much of the damage.
[Actions?]
PM sent to Cedwyn.
| Character | Health |
| Arne | 26/26 |
| Valka | 13/27 |
| Rodric | 28/28 |
| Cendwyn | 26/29 |
| Green Slime Rider | 20/45 |
-
Those of you who hit the rider see that instead of blood, gushes of water spout from the rider's body.
Also I need an awareness roll from everyone.
-
[i'm gonna be out if touch most of tomorrow so here are some roll: awareness: 14 (fail vs skill of 11). Sword attack. 10 (Success versus skill of 16). Dmg if successful: 13 (5d6)]
Cedwyn was furious with himself for his lack of finesse. That was twice now. This time, he took a moment to adjust his balance and form, feeling good about it.
"Yah!" He bellowed as he brought his blade around.
-
"Valka!" Arne yelled as the slime-coated rider smashed her with a club. And he's gushing water? What in Loki's name is this madness? Growling in fury, he leaped at the foe with a murderous lunge.
(Awareness check: skill of 5, roll of 18 = fail)
(Longsword "to hit" roll: Skill of 15, roll of 7 = success)
(Longsword damage of 5d6 = 16 pts.)
-
Valka gasped and staggered a little but stayed in - their task far too important to turn tail and run. It was no giant, but Merlin had chosen them to protect him, and that was indeed an incredible honor for a warrior of any land. It truly was an honor worth dying for and certainly worthy of great songs and poetry!
(Awareness 7 vs 4 fail. Spear 17 vs 13 fail. Doh..)
-
Rodric's brow furrowed when he saw that the rider gushed water, not blood from his wounds. It was already obvious that this was the word of fae, and though he'd been told stories as a child, and if this rider was any indication of this world, the strangeness of this place could not fully be grasped until one had actually been here.
Once again Rodric took a swing at the rider, trying to do his part to take the creature down.
[OOC: Sword roll result 1 vs skill 18, success. Damage 16. Awareness check 20 vs skill 10, critical failure.
Boy am I glad I decided to roll the attack first.]
-
Arne manages to get through the things defences and strikes with his sword, causing another gush of water. The green rider and Valka both miss their attacks. Rodric manages to score a hit with his sword, and that undoes the rider. The horse rears up, foetid water spraying everywhere. Then the horse and rider both seem to start loosing their shape, and both of them start to shrink as water spills out of them, Finally both dissolve, leaving nothing but a pile of stinking green slime on the ground, such as you might find floating on a stagnant pond. The only thing left of the horse and rider are two rusty swords and the makeshift clubs. It is then you realize that this was not a person on a steed - both rider and steed were actually a single creature.
Looking around for Merlin, you find he has left you quite alone and it nowhere to be seen.
There is a worn path behind you that leads through some brush. Perhaps he went that way?
[Actions?]
You each get 25 Glory for defeating the creature.
| Character | Health |
| Arne | 26/26 |
| Valka | 13/27 |
| Rodric | 28/28 |
| Cendwyn | 26/29 |
| Green Slime Rider | -2/45 |
-
"And I thought Thule was a land of strange beasts," Arne muttered to no one in particular, as he shook of the slime from his sword. Looking around, he saw that Merlin had disappeared. It seemed that wherever that wizard went, hostile beasts followed.
Turning to Valka, he said with a hint of concern, "That was a hard hit you took. You are all right to keep going?"
-
Valka nodded and likewise checked for any of the gunk on her equipment and herself. The club strike smarted but not enough for her to stop the group on her account. She picked up the extra spears and tried to peer down the beaten path.
-
Rodric kept his sword and shield ready, who knows what other threats would suddenly appear. Glancing around for the wizard and spotting the obvious path the knight wondered if blindly wandering, even down the path was wise.
"Despite the obvious path, I am hesitant to move about this strange land without our guide. He asked us specifically for protection against the green warrior, I would think that should his task require further protection he would have remained nearby or at the very least will return soon enough."
-
Cedwyn nodded.
"I don't think we're in Logres anymore. This place is...different. More alive somehow. Caution says we stay here. Or we risk meddling with faeries and I'm not sure we want to do that. But at the same time, it's an adventure. We should follow."
-
"Wise words," she replied, still looking into the terrain, weapon and shield ready just in case. "Unfortunately, as much as I enjoy a good adventure, there are two hundred men, women, and children waiting and depending on us."
OOC: Our resident wizard probably walks on clouds 'because reasons,' but I'm searching for any tracks around us anyway.
-
Arne snorted with laughter. "Merlin needs protection? He shows up, and his goat leads us right to a giant. Then he leads us right to a . . . a slimy horse-man that bleeds water. I'm thinking he's testing us for some reason."
Sneaking a look behind him, he shrugged and added, "We can't go back the way we came, and we know not where Merlin is. Perhaps we should look for his tracks where he was standing. If we can't find them, we should go down the path and look for him."
-
[OOC: Valka failed her hunting roll. Anyone else can give me a hunting roll to look for tracks.]
-
(OOC: Sure, if someone wouldn't mind being my proxy roller. ;) His skill is 4)
-
Rodric only briefly glanced around. He had grave concerns about moving about so his attempt to find any signs of the wizard was only halfhearted.
"I would not risk a guess as to the thoughts of one such as Merlin." he commented in response to what Arne had said.
"He has specifically asked for aid from Cedwyn and myself before, if he tells us he needs our protection I would accept his words as the truth."
[OOC: Hunting roll result 15 vs skill 8, failure.]
-
Arne can clearly see the wizard's boot prints in the soggy ground, next to impressions from his staff.
[1d20 <= 4: 1 ... success]
-
Cedwyn took a more thorough look around. He wanted to know where the old wizard went.
"I know not the Druid's motives for being here but he is wizard."
[hunting roll: 7 on a skill of 11. Successz]
-
Arne pointed to the ground, and exclaimed, "There! Merlin's footprints! You can tell them from where his staff poked into the ground!"
-
"Keep your weapons at hand. If we are in the realm of fairie, then cold iron will serve us well," Cedwyn noted from the folklore he knew, "But we should be wary of anything we do."
Cedwyn made to follow the trail a bit and see if he could spy where Merlin went.
-
Rodric sighed inwardly as Arne and Cedwyn seemed determined to follow the path. Separating was just as unwise so he would take up the position of rear guard.
"After you Lady Valka." the knight said, indicating his decision to bring up the rear.
-
Valka gave Rodric a little curtsy, made awkward by either lack of skill or the shield and spears she carried. Either way she moved forward between the men, continuing to stare into their odd surroundings.
OOC: Out of curiosity, did Merlin's footprints go down the worn path?
-
[Yes.]
You walk down the path and come to an open space. Ahead of you, you see a lake, so flat and smooth it reflects the sky like a mirror. Standing up in a small boat out in the middle of the lake stands Merlin. Around him swirls a low fog that is stirred by silent breezes you cannot feel.
As you watch, a feminine hand and arm emerge from the water. That hand is holding the most magnificent sword you have ever seen. The sword gleams brightly, almost is if it shone with an inner light. Merlin kneels, and you here murmured words carry over the water, though you cannot make out what he is saying.
Merlin takes the sword reverently in both hands. Once he lifts it, the hand and arm slip beneath the surface of the lake. Merlin stands and gazes at the sword, his face unreadable. Of it's own accord, the boat starts moving towards the shore. You watch as it grinds on the sand. Only then does Merlin move. He quickly tucks the sword into his robes and disembarks.
"Well done," he says to you. You note that as he walks towards you, the boat moves back out into the water as if controlled by an invisible boatman. The fog on the lake thickens, and in moments the boat have moved beyond your sight.
Merlin puts the blade carefully under his robes.
"Well done, well done," he says. "Britain is in your debt. Let us go now." Without another word, he steps off at a brisk pace towards the trees. A thick fog starts rising from the ground where he walks.
[Actions?]
-
Arne nodded wordlessly, overwhelmed by all the wonders he'd encountered in . . . what? The past hour? As he followed the wizard, he asked, "Merlin . . . who was that lady in the lake? And that sword! I've never seen one that finely made. Was it made by the gods?"
OOC: Sorry, I couldn't resist the lady in the lake crack. :D
-
[as long as it's not M. Night Shamalyan directing...and I assume Merlin is the old guy from the castle last year]
Cedwyn almost bowed reverently towards that sword...a weapon like that...any man could be king. Instead he focused his mind.
Cedwyn nodded, "It is our duty to serve. How do you fare, Merlin? The last Sir Rodric and I saw you; you were quite taxed."
-
Arne nodded wordlessly, overwhelmed by all the wonders he'd encountered in . . . what? The past hour? As he followed the wizard, he asked, "Merlin . . . who was that lady in the lake? And that sword! I've never seen one that finely made. Was it made by the gods?"
He glares sideways at Arne before he snaps, "That lady is no concern of yours! And no, it was not made by the gods, though that does not diminish the majesty of the sword. This sword will help Britain, and that will put you in good standing with the lords of this land. That is all you need know. "
-
Cedwyn nodded, "It is our duty to serve. How do you fare, Merlin? The last Sir Rodric and I saw you; you were quite taxed."
Merlin scowls sideways at Sir Cedwyn, but his voice is not angry when he says, "Yes. I recognized you. I am well, thank you, though a little tired. The use of magic drains the spirit, and the battle with the witch sorely while I was protecting the three of you sorely taxed me. It is most curious, Sir Cedwin: twice now the two of you have been exactly where and when I needed you. Most curious indeed."
-
Rodric suddenly felt a little ashamed. Merlin's magic was definitely the reason they survived, and escaped, the witch's lair yet they didn't thank him.
"Merlin, I believe we owe you an apology, and our thanks. It was obvious that there were protections upon us when we battled the saxons and the witch's snake yet we did not properly thank you then, or even when you returned us to the safety of Uther's tent.
For all that you have done for us, thank you. And my deepest apologies for not offer those thanks when the deed was done. Perhaps we were where and when you needed us so that we would have the chance to repay you for your aid."
-
He raises a very bushy eyebrow at Rodric as he glares at him. "You did your duty, Sir Rodric, as I have done mine - nothing more. The protection I granted you was necessary. I needed you to stay alive long enough to keep the guards off me so I could battled the witch. That would not have been possible had I not woven a protection spell around you. I do not want your thanks!" He stops and glares at each of you to underline his words. "Everything I do is out of love for, and duty to, Britain and her people. You remember that! Your protection served Britain so I granted it. Had your deaths served Britain better, I would have slit your throats myself!"
He walks on for a few steps then stops with a sigh. "Your words were kindly meant, Sir Rodric. Forgive me my black moods - I have much on my mind and find idle prattle distracting. I did my duty to Britain, as did you. Thanks are not required, nor will they be offered. But your intention does you credit."
He walks on for few steps. "There is a pattern to the worlds, my young companions. Twice now Rodric and Cedwyn have been where and when I needed them. And you, Arne and Valka, have also appeared exactly where and when you were needed, having travelled a long way to reach this exact spot at this exact time."
He looks the four of you over one at a time. You have the distinct impression he is looking through you somehow.
"There are no accidents," he says, more to himself than you. Then with an angry grunt, he turns and walks on with long, angry strides, as if he would punish the ground for some offence.
A dozen strides later, the mist is scattered by a sudden breeze, and you find yourself standing beside your horses and a very surprised Haydn sitting astride his mount.
Merlin turns to the two northmen. "Arne and Valka, you may find shelter for your people a little north at the ancient ruins of Broad. If you would take my advice, you will press on to that site before camping tonight. Your people may stay there while you make contact with the Earl's steward and seek permission to remain in these lands. Mind you this though! Do not let any of your people disturb the standing stones! Not a one! Even if that old crone of a priestess insists, deny her!"
[Pausing here for any reactions / comments / questions. He'll answer questions, but very clearly has a powerful desire to be immediately somewhere else.]
-
Ooc: I'm always two seconds late :P
Valka listened in silence to the conversation. The glares, snaps and scowls were almost frighteningly different from the mirthful wizard that revealed himself after they killed the giant. It was as if it was a different Merlin entirely. She gave Arne a meaningful look but remained quiet. This was still all a bit overwhelming and uncomfortable.
-
Cedwyn paused and there was hesitation in his voice when he spoke, "Merlin...I have a personal question for myself. Just before you struck the witch with your magic...she began a curse at me and my line. She didn't finish it. Can you say if the curse took effect?"
-
OOC: This is after Cedwyn's question. I'm kinda taking into account Arne's sense of hospitality and his pride.
Despite Merlin's renown as a powerful wizard, Arne was getting nettled at the man's rudeness and seeming ingratitude. He and Valka had risked their lives to protect him - as did Cedwyn and Rodric - and had asked nothing in return. All Arne had done in return was ask a few curious questions, and the man had snarled at him. And the others, too.
When Merlin had spoken of Holmg?r?r as "that old crone of a priestess", Arne had had enough. Tossing his head back, he replied in a flat voice, "We shall lead our people to these ruins as you have suggested, then, and tell them not to touch the stones upon pain of death. And that 'old crone' has a name. Holmg?r?r, priestess of our goddess, Freya. Good fortune to you, Merlin." To his comrades, he gestured to their horses. "Shall we? "
-
The color drained from Rodric's face as Arne spoke to Merlin. What was he thinking? True, the wizard seemed short, and had even apologized once already and explained himself. The knight said a silent prayer in hopes Merlin would ignore the northerner, or at least find it in him not to curse Arne for speaking in such a manner.
[OOC: Is Suger around anywhere?]
-
Likewise, Cedwyn was appalled by the Thulian's conduct. But he was a boy still and subject to a boy's hotheadedness. That was not excusable though.
"Northerner," he cautioned, "You have been given a gift by Merlin. You've shown valor and courage; do not add disrespect to that. It does not suit you."
-
[no sign of Suger.]
Merlin ignores Sir Cedwyn's question. He does not even make eye contact, or acknowledge the question has been asked.
When Arne gives vent to his frustration, Merlin turns to the northman, his eyebrows fairly bristling. "I daresay I know her better than you, Arne Torvaldson, and if I call her a crone it is only because long acquaintance with her meddling ways has led me to such an opinion." He puts his hands on his hips, and you all get the impression he is winding up.
"I am not in the habit of accepting rebukes from the likes of you, no matter how subtle! Unlike these good knights, you and Valka had no duty in this matter yet lent your aid freely without promise of recompense. That was nicely done, and has earned you some goodwill on my part. Therefore I have repaid you for your efforts with sound and beneficial advice - something I am loathe to do at the best of times. I recommend you take Sir Cedwyn's advice and count that as the gift it is. My good will has limits, and you are fast overstepping those bounds. You are strangers in a strange land - it behooves you to not take offence easily."
He takes a breath, glaring at Arne.
"Sir Rodric, if your squire has any wits about him, he should be here shortly." To the rest of you he adds, "I have much to do."
With that he turns on his heel and in three steps has vanished into a sudden, thick fog.
-
Once Merlin left, Arne turned to Cedwyn, but brought his ire under control. His anger wasn't for the knight, after all. "Disrespect is a two-way path, Sir Cedwyn. Merlin asked us to follow him without question, which we did. We risked out lives for him without question. I notice that Merlin healed you, by the way, and not Valka. And what do we get in return? We get spoken to like unruly thralls for simple enough questions, and that is insulting."
Arne went to mount his horse, and shook his head. "Even I, as young as I am, can see that much rests on this Merlin's head, but that is no reason to shove aside manners and throw insults to people that are call friends and allies." He sighed, and took a deep breath to rein in his anger. "But enough of what happened, for what's done is done. I shall heed Merlin's counsel, as shall I yours about Merlin, Sir Cedwyn. Now . . . how far away do you think that giant's home is? Do you think we have enough time to claim its treasure for our own, or should we meet up with my people with all haste?"
-
Valka pulled her shield's leather strap on and slid the shield over her back before mounting her horse and nudging it next to Arne.
<"If we cannot find treasure, I want to have sex on the giant. This red-haired knight and ..wizard.. have left me bothered.">
-
Rodric finally sheathed his sword and placed his shield on his back.
"Suger." he called out as he took a few steps into the woods.
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Arne's head whipped over and he gaped at Valka for a few moments, then roared in laughter. "<I do not think our comrades here would appreciate that. But either the giant, or when we make camp - I am yours.>"
-
Rodric hears a distant call off in the woods. "Sir Rodric!"
He appears to be headed in the correct direction.
-
A couple of minutes later, Suger crashes out of the woods. You see a small glowing foggy orb floating before him. As soon as he is out of the trees, the orb dissipates.
He looks surprised, and happy to see Sir Rodric. "My lord! I feared for your safety! Where did Merlin take you?"
-
Rodric placed a hand on his squire's shoulder, happy to see the boy was alright.
"To the Other Side. And I am happy to be back.
Come, let us see if we can find if that giant had any treasure. I can tell you about our brief trip on the way."
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"<Appreciate? No-one's forcing them to watch.>" She smirked and looked to where Rodric was.
"We treasure hunt then, yes? Better than chasing a goat."
Valka dismounted and secured the horse again - having mounted for no apparent reason - and grabbed a couple of her owns spears to take. She walked up to Suger and handed him the borrowed few.
-
Arne chuckled at Valka's tease. In their own language, he murmured, "<No, but they probably would all the same. And . . . I suppose we should get back to our people and lead them to these standing stones that Merlin spoke of.>" He laughed, and added, "< I don't want to think of what Holmg?r?r would say to us if she found out we stopped in our mission to have sex.>" Switching back to Cymric, he said, "Yes, much better than chasing a goat that must have been raised by Loki!"
He looked again at the body of the giant, and an idea took hold. "Sir Rodric . . . how would your brother knights and lord react if you were to take back the giant's head as a trophy and proof of our battle?"
-
[totally missed Haydn's return]
Cedwyn offered Haydn a smile.
"Twas the work of Merlin's magic, lad," he explained to the confused squire, "though you did miss seeing me tossed by a giant."
"Aye. A treasure hunt sounds like an excellent plan," he added to Rodric, Calka, and Arne.
-
He looked again at the body of the giant, and an idea took hold. "Sir Rodric . . . how would your brother knights and lord react if you were to take back the giant's head as a trophy and proof of our battle?"
The knight turned back to the Northerner.
"I will lay no claim to it, but I cannot speak for Sir Cedwyn. If he is in agreement then I would say it is yours."
-
Arne shook his head with a grin. "No, sir Rodric, we all fought together to bring it down. I just wanted to show it to my people as proof of what we fought." He shrugged. "They'd not call us liars if all of us spoke for each other, but the giant's head - well, that is something that can't be made up. After that, Sir Cedwyn could take it back to his lord and comrades if he wanted."
Arne thought for a moment, then frowned. "And our adventure in . . . what did you call it? The 'other place'? I suppose we should not speak of the lady in the lake or that sword to anyone. I have a feeling that Merlin would have us remain silent about that part. I suppose we could speak of our fight with that . . . horse-man."
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Valka chimed in as well. "Yes, what is this 'other side' you speak of?"
-
To Arne, "We should cut it off and bring it with us. Our word as Knights is good but proof never hurts."
To Valka, "The Faerie realm, a place of magick."
-
Arne caught himself as he was dismounting, and he looked at Cedwyn with wide eyes. "We went to another world, too? Ha! And how long has it been since we met you and Sir Rodric?" Chuckling, he got off his horse and walked over to the giant's body, drawing his sword.
OOC: Taking the giant's head with us. Just outa curiosity, was this a Fomorian giant?
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"I would not mention anything of the Faerie realm, even the strange warrior. To do so would be to invite further questions, the answers to which Merlin may not wish known.
The tale of the giant can be told exactly as it happened, an old goat herder asked us to retrieve his animal, which we chased into the woods and came upon the giant. We defeated the giant, the old man thanked us and went on his way."
-
"Sir Rodric...Merlin mentioned helping him retrieve the sword will earn us honor at court. I don't think we have an option. If asked, we should say only what we know for certs."
[ooc: We sorta have to lie about our achievements...Cedwyn is not really into that]
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Rodric gave a bit of a chuckle.
"My apologies, I should have perhaps been more clear in my intentions.
Should Merlin decide to disclose his actions and our participation, of course we should not deny it. I had only meant that until such time that Merlin has made public what has happened here that we should keep certain events to ourselves."
-
Valka [Hunting 2 vs 2 critical success. Awareness 19 v 4 fail]
Arne [Hunting 19 v 4 fail. Awareness 2 v 5 success]
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"I dislike the idea of being dishonest. Merlin should have simply told us if he wanted secrets kept." She paused for a moment. "Will our people need to be aware of this Faerie realm if they stay in your land? Can curious children wander into it? How did we get into it?"
-
Rodric failed to see the dishonesty, they did meet someone they thought at the time was a goat herder, it just happened to be Merlin in disguise. As for the Faerie realm, it as just a matter of not mentioning they'd been there or what they'd done or seen while there.
But if that to Valka was uncomfortable, then he would not press the issue.
"I would not want you to do anything that makes you feel dishonest. If sharing our tale in its entirety is your choice, I will of course not try to force my will upon you regarding the matter." The knight gave the young girl a slight bow indicating that he would not pursue the matter further. He then turned and headed back into the forest.
[OOC: Awareness roll result 10 vs skill 10, critical success. Hunting roll result 12 vs skill 8, failure.]
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Valka blinked at the knight, surprised that he had not only spoken so well and polite to her but that he was so willing to allow her to maintain her honesty and perhaps honor as well.
She eventually turned to Arne and gestured to the woods.
"<Are you sure that you wish not to celebrate with a fitting tribute to Freya?>"
OOC: I would imagine that at this point he would know she is a very devout follower, likely moreso than him.
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[dice hate me: 19 on both...failed]
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Arne looked back in the general direction of their people, then to the knights and their squires, and back again to Valka with a smile of amusement. "<Of course I would like to! But what would we tell the knights and their squires? 'There is a ritual that we Nords perform after killing a giant. Could you wait way, way over there and wait for an hour'?>"
He thought for a moment, then added, "<Or . . . can we wait until we lead our people to that camp tonight? We should think of our obligation to them first. The giant won't be there, but we do have its head. And . . . we could celebrate for much longer than an hour there.>"
-
"<An hour? In these woods?>" She looked at him as if he was insane. "<It is not about pleasure, it is about Freya. Honoring the goddess is an obligation to our people. But fine. It need not be done with you...>"
Valka threw her nose in the air and spun around to look for Suger. "<The squire's eyes have yet to leave me. I am sure Rodric would not mind me borrowing him for a few minutes...>"
She started walking off in Rodric's direction. They needed the gods' blessing for their people in the new land. Perhaps Arne's tribe did not worship the gods as hers had, or maybe it was her commoner upbringing that made it so central to her life.
...They were going to need to perform a lot of sacrifices.
-
Arne's eyes hardened, and there was equal hurt and anger when he retorted, "<Very well. If that is your only interest in me, then go seek out your squire and roll around on top of the giant if you cannot wait until you and I - our peoples' leaders - at least see our people safely to Broad first. Trying to manipulate me through jealousy like that is foul and unworthy, Valka. I'd never have done so to you.>"
As an afterthought, he quoted a verse of the prayer that Holmg?r?r had given to them. "'<Freya, the mother of us all, watch and protect us as we watch and protect our own.' Do you remember who spoke those words to us, Valka?>"
-
Valka swung back around, her bright red curls swaying and cascading all around her.
"Arne, you do have feelings for me?"
Her jaw dropped and the biggest smile widened over her petite features just before she bolted and leaped at him for a giant hug, shield and all (though dropping the spears first!).
-
"Whouuuf!" The air in Arne's lungs was rammed out of his body as he was all but body-tackled by Valka. Again I am knocked off balance with the air taken from me! I'd like to pit her against my brothers in a wrestling bout . . .
It was difficult to return her embrace with the Norse shield on her back, but he still managed, although somewhat clumsily. With a chuckle, he muttered, <Of course, you fool! I had thought that was clear. After all that we've gone through, and with your spirit and devotion? You'd put many Nord chieftains and thanes to shame!>"
-
Cceswyn watched the exchange between the northerners with bemusement and interest.
Turning to Rodric, he noted with a smile, "There is definitely something between those two, but it seems like some sort of argument and now she's grappling him, but it looks happy."
He sighed, "I should write Ysbail more. I have neglected her a bit in doing my duty."
-
Rodric gave a bit of a shrug. "Perhaps." he replied.
"There will be times where long absences will be required, and some of those will not allow for correspondence. She is aware of that.
But I am sure she would appreciate hearing from you."
-
Valka just looked up at Arne and smiled.
"<A fool I am, then. And you as well, for passing up a tribute to go treasure hunting.>"
She pressed herself up against him for a moment before playfully spitting her tongue out at him.
-
Arne chuckled, then looked back at the bemused knights and squires thoughtfully. Then back to Valka. "<You are very convincing. Well, Freya smiles on those that pursue riches, too, so let's honor her twice, then.>"
Looking at the knights and their squires, he said, "<Sir Cedwyn, Sir Rodric, Suger, Haydn . . ." Arne was suddenly struck with the fact that their Cymric comrades were likely Christian, and would never have heard of Freya's rites. He bit back a laugh as he thought of how they would react, and continued. "In Thule, giants are the ancient enemies of our people, and as followers of Freya, we would often . . . celebrate such a victory with a . . . rite." Arne coughed, then added tactfully with a half-smile, "Unless I am wrong, I am thinking that the four of you are Christians, and probably would not want to witness this rite. Among many things, Freya is mostly a goddess of, well, fertility."
-
Rodric glanced and Cedwyn with an almost 'are they serious' look. Paganism was nothing new, there were many pagans in the land and at times their rituals were lustful. But to perform such a rite because a foe had been defeated?
"Cedwyn and I can return with any treasure we find and wait here while the two of you perform what ever it is your goddess. Unless of course you intend to perform your ritual here, then we will find another place to wait."
-
The four of you, accompanied by Suger (Haydn volunteers to guard the horses again), head back into the forest. You can locate the site of the battle with the giant fairly easily. Going over the body is unpleasant - the corpse is crawling with vermin - but you tough it out. However, you find nothing. The creature only carried the uprooted tree, and the only other items it was was a loincloth made of untanned animal fur, and a cloak of the untanned hide of a bear. Netiehr are even worth the effort of salvaging.
You scout around for a few minutes, looking for some sort of lair, but you find nothing in the immediate vicinity. Straying too far from known paths could lead you to get lost, and the forest goes on for a long way. Getting lost in there could cost you months or years, so prudence eventually leads you to return. Arne and Valka hand back for about a quarter of an hour for whatever pagan ritual they need to perform. They return, both looking like they had spent time rolling in the leaf mould.
Reunited, it is time to move on.
[Actions?]
Possible things to do:
1. Report to the Earl's steward and arrange for safe passage / camping and hunting rights.
2. Scout out the standing stones at Broad for suitability for a campsite.
3. Return to the refugees and guide them to the stones at Broad.
4. ?
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Arne and Valka both get Lustful advancement checks next Winter Phase.
All four of you get Valor checks next Winter Phase.
-
Arne brushed some leaves and soil from his clothing and gave the Cymric knights and squires an apologetic nod. They were likely thinking that Arne And Valka were a pair of young, irresponsible warriors with little self-control of their passions, but there was time to set that straight if they wished to ask about it. He suspected they knew little of his people and religion, or of their ancient hatred of giants.
"Too bad that the giant's treasure could not be found, but at least it will not threaten any more people, yes? We should return to our people now, and lead them to this Broad that Merlin spoke of. Valka, Sir Cedwyn, Sir Rodric . . . what if one of us goes with one of you and his squire to speak to this land's earl? We will need permission to stay there, and to set up shelter and seek food. The other three could return to my people. If the local people see a knight of these lands travelling with our people, their fears may be settled."
-
Valka was unapologetic of the wait; the men could have watched or even participated in the rite. She paid no mind to the foliage in her tresses and just marched up to them at the horses.
?If we do separate, I do not think it in our favor for me to speak with this Earl. Not as a poet, and... certainly not as a woman."
Though it hurt her pride to say it, it was a gut feeling that she would never be taken as seriously as a man in these lands. It was hard enough at home where women were actually accepted as leaders.
-
Arne looked at her for several moments before he reluctantly replied, "If that is what you wish. But he will hear and see soon enough that you are also a worthy warrior and leader." Arne thought for a moment, then looked to the knights. "If this idea meets with your agreement, then perhaps I could travel with Sir Cedwyn and squire Haydn to meet with your earl, while Valka, Sir Rodric and squire Suger could join up with our people and escort them to Broad?"
-
A small, knowing smile crept across Rodric's face. As young as she was, Valka was perceptive.
"If Sir Cedwyn is in agreement with you both, then Suger and I would gladly escort Valka and your people to Broad." he said to both the Northerners before addressing Arne directly.
"But it would mean you would likely not return to your people until mid day tomorrow, assuming you are granted an audience this evening or shortly after dawn."
-
"No, it is not my wish, but it is what it is. I am more concerned about our people having a fair agreement than my pride."
"Alternatively we could wait and go tomorrow. We do have a giant's head and they will want to celebrate tonight."
-
[vacation :)]
Cedwyn noted, "Night settles upon us soon. It would be wise to travel afresh come the morning light. At the point, we can continue on with Arne and myself journeying to Salisbury to see the steward."
-
Arne nodded his agreement to Valka and the knights. "Good! Then let us join up with our people, and Sir Cedwyn, squire Haydn and I will ride out the next day."
OOC: I was assuming that Cedwyn meant that we would join up with the Nords first and then set out the next day.
-
[yes...we camp overnight and go in the morning]
-
The six of you make your way north along the river to the Broad Stones site. It is easy enough to find. On the north shore of the river stands a perfectly round mound topped with a circle of small, white stone. The place seems strange, and none of you feel any urge to approach closer than necessary. Even your horses are jumpy near the mount.
Just to the north, on the north bank of the river lies a raised plateau suitable for a camp. It will be a tight fit, but all the refugees should be able to set up there. The site backs against a ridge that runs north-east to south-west following the river which should provide some shelter. A suitable location found, the six of you turn back and return to the refugees.
It is nearly sunset when you rejoin them. Introductions are make and despite the lateness of the hour, you encourage the refugees to press on. They finally reach Broad about three hours after sunset. It was hard going in the dark, but the night was clear and before long a half moon rose over the horizon making the going much easier.
The refugees set about making a crude camp with supplied obviously scavenged from a Saxon camp. Most of the tents are made from sail cloth and scrap wood.
Not having prepared for a night in the field, Sir Cedwin and Sir Rodric plan to sleep under the stars. Suger seems fine with it, performing his duties as squire without complaint. Haydn, however, seems irritable. He says nothing out of place to Sir Cedwyn, of course, but both knights notice he speaks harshly to any refugees he interacts with, and also has some overly harsh words for Suger over a minor issue. His usual grace and manners seems to be lacking.
Once the camp is set up, Holmg?r?r leads the faithful (which includes virtually all of the refugees) in prayers of thanks to Freya. She admonishes the refugees to think on Freya's generosity this night, and there are many nods.
With the travel and setting up of camp, there has been little time for talk. But now, under the half moon and sitting among the Northmen around warm fires, the Saxon wine is brought out, and the camp slips from quiet contemplation of their recent fortunes to revelry. Then, her eyes shrewd, Holmg?r?r asks, "You were gone for some time, and Valka returned to us injured. Cedwyn, who's face was clear when he first came to us, carries scars that look days old now. These things speak of an adventure. Would you tell us what happened?"
[OOC: Up to you guys what you want to share with the Northmen, and who does the speaking, and in what order. I'll need Orate rolls from any storytellers, unless one of you wants to try singing. Valka could accompany the story or song with her drums if she chooses - the Northmen are in a good mood, despite the efforts of the day and the lateness of the hour.]
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[Orate 18 v 10 fail, Singing 7 v 10 success] Maybe Arne will have better luck? :P
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(Orate skill 4, roll 20 = critical fail. This die roller reeeeeaally doesn't like me).
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OK, tell the story. I'll apply the rolls to crowd reactions, modified by what you write.
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OOC: Considering I rolled a 20, I'll try and make this story as rushed and non-detailed as possible. :P
Arne opened his mouth to tell the tale, then froze solid. His ability to weave a story was laughable at best, and to make matters worse, he was going to tell it in front of nearly two hundred people.
He chuckled nervously and muttered, "I . . . Freya take me, I am foul at this. Fighting is one thing, but . . . well, it all started when we met up with an old man, who asked us to get his black goat back for him. We went to get the goat, but the damned thing was impossible to catch! It ran into a field of scrub and trees, and we dismounted to follow. Then there was a large crash, and there, in front of us, was a huge, three-eyed giant with horns on its head! It tossed the goat aside, and roared at us! Valka, Sir Cedwyn, Sir Rodric and I ran at the giant, weapons ready! All of us wounded it sorely, but it managed to hit Sir Cedwyn with a tree! Valka finally brought the giant to its knees with her spear, and Sir Rodric finished it off with his sword."
"Then the old man showed up. There was a mist, and the old man changed into Merlin himself! Next, he took us to the faerie realm, where we had to fight off a four-armed, slimy horse-man while Merlin . . . needed to do something. Do not ask, for I shall not tell at this time! This fight was also tough. The four of us killed it, and Valka was hit by a mace in the fight. After we killed it, it turned into a pile of bog water! After the fight, Merlin brought us back to where we killed the giant. Before he left, he told us to bring our people to this place, and to talk to the earl of these lands." He stopped for a few moments, then nodded to himself, and took on a stern look. "He also said that no one should disturb the standing stones here. That he was very serious about. From the way he spoke of them, it sounded like something terrible would happen if they were disturbed. So . . . no one is to touch those stones, for I have no reason to doubt Merlin."
Arne took a deep breath, then shook his head, pointed to Valka and his comrades and muttered, "My tale-telling is vile. They could likely tell the tale far better than I."
-
Rodric almost groaned as Arne told the tale of their adventure. His story telling talents were nothing worth boasting about but surely the tale could be told better. And the fact that they had run into Merlin was now out in the open...
?Your young leader here has summarized our encounter quite well, but it is a good thing he is better with his axe than with his words.
Indeed, while we scouted the road ahead we came upon an old man by the side of a river and near the cliff?s edge. Cedwyn opened a dialog while the rest of us scanned the area, it made a good spot for an ambush, of us alone, or even yourselves.
We saw nothing other than the large black goat a top the cliff which the old man said had gotten away from him and asked for our help in retrieving. I know not of your customs, but surely lending aid to those in need is as prevalent in the north as it is here.
So we agreed and went after the stray animal. And Arne did not exaggerate; the animal was quick on its feet and before we knew it had dashed into the trees. The brush too thick to navigate well on horseback, we tracked the goat on foot. After but a few minutes we heard a crashing behind us so we readied our weapons. But our alarm was unfounded, Suger here had chased us down, his arms full of spears and my shield over his shoulder.
It was then that we heard the goat cry out and unbelievably heavy footfall. There, standing before us, was a giant, the goat clutched the horns within one of its hands. The giant had 3 eyes and the horns of a dear growing out of its head. Seeing us it effortlessly tossed the goat aside and let out a roar.
Arne and Cedwyn charged forth, axe and sword at the ready. Valka was right on their heels,? the knight paused. ?With naught but a dagger.? He chuckled.
?That is true courage, to charge a giant with a simple dagger. Myself, I stole my shield from Suger and moved quickly to close, my brave young squire right behind me.
Seeing our charge, the giant ripped a tree the size of Valka from the ground and readied itself. Cedwyn was the first to reach the beast and barely managed to avoid being struck by the tree. He responded with a slash of his sword, biting the giant?s leg. The creature roared in fury, even though it?s thick hide absorbed most of the blow.
Arne was next, his axe biting through the giant?s hide, and Valka, well perhaps prudence had caught up with her, for she called out to Suger to throw her a spear. And throw a spear he did, with such perfect timing, Valka caught it in one hand and without losing a step, was able to drive it deep into the beast.
That truly enraged the thing, and it took out its fury on Cedwyn, as you can clearly see. My good friend here received a blow so powerful, it sent him hurdling through the air and nearly knocking him out cold. I too took a swing with my sword, the blade finding its way past the giant?s defenses.
It must have been the sight of seeing a man flying through the air that released some wellspring of strength from these two,? Rodric indicated Valka and Arne.
?For before I could take another swing, Arne?s axe bit so deep, that despite the giant?s thick hide it was enough to stagger the creature. Valka not to be outdone drove her spear so deep, the giant slumped to the ground. Approaching it, I could still smell the foul odor from its breath so with a final stab the creature was finished.
It was then that the old man stepped out, congratulating us as fog seemed to seep from his clothes and in moments, the old man had become none other than Merlin himself. The wizard knelt down and healed Cedwyn?s wounds, but much damage had already been done. The knight now carries a mark of courage for all to see.
With naught but a few words, Merlin asked the four of us to follow and walked deeper into the woods as a mist began to rise up. Unsure of what lay ahead, we followed quickly only to find ourselves in a place where everything seemed more alive. We had little time to get our bearings before a warrior on horseback, both covered in green slime and with swords in each hand was upon us.
?Protect me? Merlin asked of us as the creature grew two more arms, these new arms breaking off branches to wield as clubs. The wizard moved behind us as we engaged the rider. Our courage still invigorated by the battle with the giant, we made short work of our foe. Where blood would spill from a normal man, this creature bled foul smelling water, and when it was over, no body remained, both man and beast, which we now noticed were one, dissolved into naught be a green slime.
Our assigned task complete, and Merlin?s as well for the wizard had vanished during the fight, but we met up with him again after a few steps, the wizard spirited us back to the forest and we parted ways.
Not of course before he told us of this place. And so we returned to you all, and now here we are.?
The knight said, ending his telling of the tale.
[OOC: Hopefully the recap is good enough to offset most of the failure from the die roll.
Skill roll result 16 vs skill 10, failure.]
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Arne listened with rapt attention as Rodric told the tale in far better detail, and even laughed and took a mock bow at Rodric's crack about his prowess - or rather, lack thereof - of telling stories. He didn't miss the praise that the knight gave to Arne and Valka - especially Valka - and gave the man a grin and a nod of appreciation.
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Valka enjoyed the tales regardless of how well the men did - or thought they did, giving them her full attention and support, with reactions fit for bards. For her part, however, another retelling simply would not do - no, this required a humorous song/poem of sorts, accompanied by the drums at appropriate stops.
"Cedwyn the stern and Rodric the polite
Arne the brave and Valka the sprite
These four went off to find a campground or site
And instead came upon an old man with a plight!
The old man cried, my goat, my goat, a kingdom for my goat!
A goat had stood, tall and proud on a hilltop, black as midnight was his coat.
It dashed and it weaved, banked left and we heaved
Through the brush and forest fast was he.
But through the wood it fled quick
And horses could follow no more through the thick.
Into the wood these four warriors on foot tracked
But not a goat they found, that was fact!
A big, 3-eyed giant, ugly as ugly can be
And behold, this thing was quite mighty!
It plucked up a tree about as big as me
Yet not a scream from the likes of we.
Forward we dashed, with sword and spear, and ax to be sure
And from that tree a massive blow did Cedwyn endure. Ouch!
The giant swung, left and right
Oh he was such a sight!
Mighty Thor was with us though
We gave it such a fright!
With fire in our blood and weapon in hand
We brought down the giant, no longer could he stand
A crash and thud and down was he,
Elated and victorious were we!
Our companions searched for treasure while we- Arne and me
Well... nothing short of a tribute to Freya would do properly!"
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[OOC: Ok, that was awesome. Very well done. For the extra work above and beyond, Valka has earned an advancement check for Compose and Singing.]
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The crowd listens through Arne's story, but seems to have trouble piecing it together. Rodric fares a little better, but it is plain the crowd is not engaged. But when Valka starts up her drums, and begins singing an impromptu song about the adventure, the crowd reacts well. They cheer and gasp at all the appropriate parts, and when, with a lascivious grin she mentions a tribute to Freya they break into laughter and cheers.
[Cedwyn, Rodric, Arne and Valka get 10 glory for the tale. Valka gets an additional 10 glory for her singing of it.]
All of you get hearty claps on the back, and get mugs of heated Saxon wine pressed into your hands, and the gathering winds down into a more quiet celebration.
Before long, in twos and threes and family groups, the Northmen head to their tents, with more than a few reciting lines from Valka's song as they make their way to bed.
Morning dawns clear but chill, and a thick mist rolls off the river.
As discussed, Rodric, Suger and Valka remain with the refugees while Cedwyn, Haydn and Arne ride off to Sarum to speak to the Earl's steward.
Arne has seen cities before, but as he comes out of the river valley and spies Sarum for the first time, he can honestly say he has never seen a city such as this one. The city is almost circular, and surrounded by high walls. The centre of the city is a huge hill. upon which stands a fortress. This is a city built for war.
Arne catches more than a few stares as he passes through the gate, but the presence of Sir Cedwyn means you enter with no problems. Men-at-arms are not about to stop one of the Knights of the county, regardless of the company he keeps.
The city is a press of people, so that they must make way or risk injury from your horses. Never has Arne seen so many people in one place.
You ride through the town and climb the hill, crossing the drawbridge over the deep ditch into the castle itself. In the courtyard, boys overseen by squires take your horses. Haydn leaves you at this point, as is his duty, to ensure your mounts are cared for properly, and you enter the castle.
After some quick introductions, you find yourselves before Sir Bar, a great bear of a man. He looks like he could crush Arne between those powerful arms with ease.
"Sir Cedwyn, what do you have to report?" He is looking at Arne as he asks this.
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Cedwyn gave Sir Bar a courtly bow.
"Sir Bar. May I present to you, Arne Torvaldson of Thule. It was his people we received reports of. They are fleeing enslavement by the Saxon pigs," there was a distinct note of disdain, "and seek shelter, allies, and revenge against them. Sir Rodric remains with the Northmen to guide them to the ruins of Broad (with Merlin's permission) and let others know they are peaceful in their travels. There they were instructed to remain by Merlin whilst we came to report."
[ooc: Cedwyn follows whatever courtly procedure is...]
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Sir Bar looked confused. "Merlin? What has he to do with all this? And let them stay? His permission? Perhaps you better start at the beginning."
I don't need the whole story if you don't want. I'll allow an Orate roll to see how well you get the information across.
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[ooc: my orate sucks...]
Cedwyn began from the start.
"We journeyed south by southeast for several hours after you orders, Sir. As we crested a hill, we spotted a large group coming north, almost directly on a bearing towards Sarum. The Northman. From our vantage, Sir Rodric and I could see that the party numbered a great deal of women, children, elderly, and wounded, making it very clear it was not a Saxon war party."
He paused, seeing if Bar had any questions, but continued, "Sir Rodric and I went went down to hail them and see about their purpose in the kingdom. We discovered at the point for certes they were fleeing Saxon enslavement, many having been captured on a holy pilgrimage for their gods. We learned that they desire revenge against the Saxons and so Sir Rodric and I began to guide them towards Sarum so we could find a place for them to camp peacefully and stay out of trouble."
"That was when we met Merlin. Towards twilight, Sir Rodric, Arne, myself, and another named Valka (plus our squires) went ahead to scout for a suitable camp. On our way, we met an old goatherd claiming he'd once been the Earl's goatherd and had lost his goat. It fled into the woods upon sight of us and we gave chase where we encountered a giant."
Cedwyn pointed to the scar, "It gave me this, but we managed to bring it down. Afterwards, the goatherd revealed himself as Merlin and asked our aid in a task. We gave him that aid, though it is not my place to mention what was done, I think. Afterwards, Merlin informed Arne and Valka their people could camp at the ruins of Broad. Sir Rodric remained with them so the local lords would know they are under protection and have tentative permission to be there (at least until refuge is granted or denied). I brought Arne with me to make his petition directly."
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Sir Bar looks even more confused. "What in God's name was Merlin doing there? Surely he has better things to do that escort escaped Saxon slaves?"
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"He was there on other...business for the King. He wanted help from us to complete it. We crossed the faerie-land where we fended off a warrior made of a tree while Merlin retrieved a sword for his Majesty. Merlin's instructions to us were part of the reward for our assistance."
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Sir Bar looks like he wants more, but he frowns and says, "If it is business for the King, then it's none of mine, though I daresay the Earl will press you for details when he returns." His frown deepens. "I know the King has taken your oath, Sir Cedwyn. But I suggest you remember who you owe your lands to, and consider where your loyalty lies."
Apparently done with that, Sir Bar turns to Arne. "And what am I to make of you, who march under arms into Salisbury? Merlin may be the king's adviser, but these lands are Earl Roderick's to administer. We prepare for war - we have little enough in the county for our own, let alone enough to spare to support refugees and escaped slaves. I grant you that Earl Roderdick is a god-fearing man, and kinder and more generous than most. But I will not commit to supporting to many refugees in his name. Are there any among you who would earn their keep?"
He turns to Sir Cedwyn and asks, "What did you imagine we would do with them when you came here?"
He looks back and forth between you, expecting answers from both of you.
[OOC: Can I get an awareness roll from Arne?]
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Arne grinned broadly. "Sir Bar, all of our people are hard-working and all will earn their own keep, although some are still not fully hale. The road has been long and hard for us since we escaped slavery and butchered our captors. But if you want to know if our fighting men will readily spill Saxon blood, then yes, we will most eagerly earn our keep."
(Awareness skill of 5, roll of 13 = fail)
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Cedwyn nodded to Sir Bar, "There is magic involved, Sir. And I daresay what was done helps his Lordship. My oaths are not in conflict."
To the question of what do, he added, "Only as Arne had suggested. Enlist their warriors in the war. We need men to fight. Settle them somewhere where they can be productive. But it the Earl's perogative, but I've seen Arne fight. He is a true warrior."
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Sir Bar works his jaw is if chewing a distasteful thought. He looks at Arne.
"Not all your people are warriors, by your own admission. Hiring mercenaries is one thing. Taking on refugees is quite another. And you are likely unaware of this, Northman, but the hiring of mercenaries is at the root of our current problems with the Saxons. I am not convinced. But we can't have you wandering the county either. And there is the matter of that pagan wizard who holds the King's ear..."
His frown deepens, and he continues to chew. Then the chewing stops, and he brightens a little. Looking to Sir Cedwyn he says, "Are you and Sir Rodric willing and able to host and support them until the Earl returns? Putting your purse and lands behind your words would go a long way towards easing the Earl's mind. Young as you are, if you are willing to support them it would at least show the strength of your conviction."
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A muscle twitched along Arne's jaw as he barely checked his anger. The oaf's insinuation that his people would somehow be as untrustworthy as the Saxons made his blood boil, but he bit his tongue. He was in a new land, and these people had their own ways, even if most of them came across as insulting. He was about to coldly suggest that he and his people would be more than happy to take the two longships they captured, sail back to Ostland and take their chances there when the clod brought up an idea to Sir Cedwyn. Again, the man spoke as if Arne wasn't even there, but he still held his tongue. An ill-mannered, insulting lout, yes, but he had a good idea. Arne watched Sir Cedwyn, awaiting a reply.
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Cedwyn wondered if Sir Bar was setting a trap of sorts. He wasn't a poor knight so much as currently not yet fully invested.
"While I cannot speak for Sir Rodric, Sir, I would welcome Arne's people to my lands," he nodded to Arne. It would allow him to grow his lands, but how would it set with his people now, Cedwyn wondered.
"Arne...if Sir Rodric also accepts, are you people willing to split up? Falt and Winterbourne Stoke are not close by any means."
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Arne smiled at Sir Cedwyn's generous offer and gave the knight a bow, but faltered when he mentioned splitting his people up. "You have my gratitude and that of my people, Sir Cedwyn. But for having my people separate . . . I regret that I do not know how they will take to that idea. Please understand that I do not speak out of ingratitude when I say this. If separating will make matters easier for you and your holdings, I shall do what I can to convince them that it would be for the best."
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Sir Bar nods. "It's settled then. I'll send a message to the Earl. In the meantime, Sir Cedwyn and Sir Rodric can see to your needs. Sir Cedwyn, I presume you'll need a few days to sort out the details. You and Sir Rodric are released for no more than 5 days. You are free to petition the Earl for compensation of your expenses as your conscience guides you."
Sir Bar turns to Arne. "Forgive this cold reception, sir. I am not comfortable committing the Earl's treasury to support you on the Earl's behalf in a time of war, and I do not know enough to predict his mind on this matter. So, until a message is received with direction to the contrary, or the Earl returns and rules on the matter, you and yours will be guests of Sir Rodric and Sir Cedwyn. You may find that the willingness of two of his knights to pay your support will have a positive influence on the Earl. All the same, if you hear nothing sooner, be prepared to move on in the spring."
You both get the impression that this meeting is over. Sir Bar looks like a man waiting for farewells.
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Cedwyn offered Sir Bar a courtly bow, "With your leave Sir, we will go sort this out and get Arne's people settled in our lands."
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Arne, too, aped Sir Cedwyn's bow to Sir Bar. "Nothing to be forgiven, Sir Bar. Your duties are many, and we arrived as a large, unexpected guest. My people and warriors will be ready to move by the spring, I avow it."
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The Sir Cedwyn and Arne, joined by Haydn, head back out and are soon on the road again. It is well after sunset by the time you pick your way down the river and finally spot the fires of the camp.
Reunited with the others, Sir Cedwyn and Arne join Sir Rodric and Valka by the fire with Holmg?r?r. Haydn and Suger are nearby, attentive to the needs of their lords. A small crowd of others gather as well to hear what you have to report.
[Both Rodric and Cedwyn would know the support costs involved with supporting the refugees, and what the costs for a given level of lifestyle would be. Remember that it isn't just coin, but reallocated resources as well (though resources could be replaced with coin).]
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Arne watched the others and waited for the conversations to die down before rising to his feet. "Sir Cedwyn and I were unable to meet with Earl Roderick, for duties had him elsewhere. But we did meet with Sir Bar, a knight high in the Earl's standing. Sir Bar's suggestion was that our people remain as guests of Sir Cedwyn and Sir Rodric." Nodding to Sir Rodric with a smile, he added, "That is, if that agreement is acceptable to Sir Rodric until the Earl hears our plight and makes a decision."
Arne looked at his people intently. "Of course, you all know that our hosts are showing great hospitality and generosity to allow us a place to stay, and the expense for this - at least, for a little while - will be covered by Sir Cedwyn and Sir Rodric. Know, too, that Sir Cedwyn and Sir Rodric are taking us in upon their honor as knights, so our conduct will reflect upon them. Remember this well. Of course, we shall show our gratitude by helping their lands flourish. I know that many of you have trades that you can practice, so we can put those to good use. Another thing is that we will likely have to separate into two different settlements, for it's not right that one of the good knights here should have to see to the expenses of all of us."
Arne raised a hand to forestall any possible outburst. "This, too, may only be for a little while. All of this depends on Earl Rodrick's final say. He may very well decide to let us create our own settlement so all of us can live together . . . or he may also decide that he'd rather see us move on. Either way, we must be ready to move by the spring. But if we are allowed to stay, we shall earn our keep." Arne grinned, and added, "Never let it be said that we Nords are not a tough, hard-working people. We shall earn our keep, and we shall show our new friends that we can be mighty allies in battle, too."
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Rodric raised an eyebrow when Arne mentioned Sir Bar's suggestion. Sir Bar obviously knew Rodric and Cedwyn's estates were meager. To take in so many would prove a heavy burden for either of them, even if the Northerners agreed to split up. Had he hoped Cedwyn would decline and the Northerner's be left to whatever devices on their own?
The knight looked out at the crowd, seeing their concern and apprehension struck a chord within him.
"Nay Arne, your people have been through enough. To force you to divide yourselves...does not sit well with me.
I would welcome you all on my lands."
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Valka was among the concerned faces, nearly incredulous at the suggestion that the northmen separate. Were they no longer welcome to the ruins?
"I could not fathom in a hundred years splitting our people. We are a family now, if not by birth, then by blood, having fought for each other, many having died for each other. And after news of the giant I dare say more than a few have come together. We will be seeing babes this winter, no doubt blessed by Freya herself.?
She turned to Rodric, feeling as though he was a sudden ray of sunlight in the frigid northern winter storm.
?Sir Rodric, that is a generous offer. More than generous - selfless even, to take our plight onto yourself though we are owed nothing.? Valka smiled wide. The respect she had for him was great.
?If we were to take you up on it, it is as Arne has said, our people would do all that they can to show their appreciation for your hospitality. But we are a council of three,? she gestured to Arne and Holmg?r?r. ?And together will decide.?
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Arne was grateful for the knights' generosity, and gave the both of them a deep bow of respect. He hoped that Cedwyn would not be offended with Rodric's offer, or especially the Nords' acceptance of it. Despite the fact that having their people split up to live on different holdings would be far less of a financial burden on the two knights, Arne had despaired of the thought of having the refugees split up. They had been through too much together already.
Arne and Valka liked Rodric's proposal, but all now rested with Holmg?r?r's decision.
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Cedwyn was grateful at Rodric's offer and nodded towards him. While Cedwyn didn't know what Rodric was thinking about Sir Bar's motives, Cedwyn thought along similar lines.
"Rodric, your offer is most generous. I was afraid that I could only accomodate but a few on my lands in a manner that would befit them, " Cedwyn made an attempt to keep relief from his voice. He had been worried about splitting them up. Family was important. But it was in that moment that he resolved to begin writing Ysbail daily, to inquire after her and their unborn child.
"Come the morn, we should forage for food and begin the journey to Falt," he looked at Rodric, "How long is the journey, my friend?"
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"Two, perhaps three days and we would need to ford two rivers." Rodric replied to Cedwyn and then turned to look at each of Valka, Arne and Holmg?r?r.
"That is of course if my offer is acceptable to all three of you."
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Arne brightened. "Your offer is acceptable and generous, Sir Rodric." Looking at Valka and Holmg?r?r, he shrugged. "What say the both of you?"
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"I am agreeable, but we need not decide this very moment," Valka replied, mostly so that the priestess would not be forced to decide on the spot if she wanted to discuss it privately. "Are you hungry or thirsty? May I get you anything?" she asked the two that had just arrived.
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Holmg?r?r is quiet, watching the interplay between all of you. She smiles at Valka, apparently relieved at a distraction. "Yes, food and drink. Where are our manners?" She gets up from the fire, stopping to grip Valka's shoulder for a moment as a gesture of gratitude.
Food and drink are brought. It is not a rich meal, and there is not a lot of it, but the Northmen share what they have. There is also plenty of music and dancing, pretty women and handsome men to go around.
[PM sent to Arne and Valka.]
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[OOC: Waiting on Valka's response to the PM.]
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The rest of the night passes in revelry. One thing about the Northmen - they can celebrate. It is perhaps a little more debauched than the Christian knights are comfortable with, but the easy solution there is to withdraw to their tents. In the morning the trek to Falt will begin.
[OOC: Anyone interested in a 'liaison' can find a willing partner, and earn a check for Lustful.
That's all I had for this season. I'll keep the thread open for any RP, but unless anyone has any objections, I'd ready to move on to winter phase.]
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OOC: Arne's going to start work on a wooden image of Freya for Valka. He's going to take his time, and he's going to look for skilled woodcarvers to give him tips and advice. That, and of course get the Nords settled in and working.
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OOC: I'm ready to move on.
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[ooc: excepting some letter writing over the summer I'm good to move on]
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Ooc: I'm good, although that night Valka would be looking to finish what she and Arne had started in the woods. ;)