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Merus approaches Rupert and bows.
"As my uncle, head of House Lebeda, I too swear my loyalty to House Surtova and pledge my blade to the successful conquest of the Stolen Lands. May the new kingdom prosper under your leadership. As such, I promise to not damage Michael too much later tonight."
Rupert's face looks almost angry.
"We are not asking for your house to support house Surtova. We are asking you, Merus, to support our claim, and swear loyalty to us, King Rupert the First. To us, and not to my cousin's house. Can you do that?"
Merus looks taken a back.
But your Majesty, I did exactly as you asked, I personally swore loyalty to your House? If you wished more, you should have asked for such."
"Ah, my apologies, I had not realized you are splitting from House Surtova and founding a new dynasty. How ambitious! Then by all means, my oath stands for your new House. May your endeavor be successful!"
Merus bows deeply.
Let that little exchange reach back to the Dragonscale throne Merus thinks to himself.
Christian gives the king a very slight nod.
Very well, as you wish...your majesty. I Christian D'Elgante do hereby state that he will stand by King Rupert, and I swear loyalty to his house.
Christian lifts the hand of the king to his lips and kisses the ring. Letting the hand fall again, he turns and walks away. His smile is large and genuine. As he passes a server he will take a drink at random and continue to walk.
As he gets to the end of the line a new name is called out to give their oath. He walks through the crowd towards Axhammer rocknose.
Alysandra's subtext to Coalhouse re:
Alexander Dumonte: 'Untrustworthy? Look who he went to.'
And revised re:
Merus Lebeda: 'Very political. Watch him.'
Aolis didn't need a revision; I got a little confuzzled due to the discussion page.
As christian approaches the gnome
he is tall...for a gnome
Sir Rocknose, we have never met but I have heard about you and your reputation. I am Christian of the Coursers. I was hoping we could talk a little bit about your oath. Now I take no offense to your oath to Rupert. I agree that you should hold your gods above that of a would be king.
Christian takes a deep breath and continues.
Sir, you are a good, pious man and I envy you for that. I was wondering if you would reconsider...not your oath, but doing as Rupert is asking. I and the rest of the good people that are going into those lawless lands will need your aid. The defenseless people that are in those lands are going to need your aid. The land itself is wild and lawless. You and the younglings could do much good by joining us on this mission. If you find that your gods wish you to keep your oath as it stands, fine...that is the end of it then.
Christian looks at the gnome for a short period..
Stop by the encampment tonight sometime after midnight. I would love your council on the upcoming events. I might even have a offer for you...maybe.
Christian turns and slowly walks away...but only gets a few steps from the gnome when he turns back towards the gnome
You know I always envisioned you as taller..hmm He turns and continues on his way
Merus fades to the back and catches Stefan's attention. When he is close he whispers,
"Be sure to let your contacts spread the "independent" nature of Rupert's requests for oaths to King Noleski. Noleski is almost as paranoid of his power in house as he is of his power externally. As to Rupert, he displays the typical arrogance of a Surtova, but perhaps he is an ally in the making. Wouldn't that be a nice twist."
Stefan listens intently to Meris while keeping an eye out for potential eavesdroppers. When Merus finishes he Stefan gives a curt nod in acknowledgement.
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Dagit goes to his friend. Axhammer, you fool! Do you hold your gods so high as to deny the word of this man? If your gods disapprove, then They would surely let you know, and if you break your oath, the gods will surely forgive you if you had reason!
Dagit sighs. Look, I'm sorry, but sometimes the gods don't show you the path. You must make the choice alone. So, old friend, will you join us, or leave?
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After the oath taking formalities, food is served and a somewhat awkward dinner takes place.
Most of the Brevoy locals are confused about His Majesty Rupert Surtova's declarations, and the general consensus is that he is "just talking" to confuse them, as the Surtova's always do. Lord-Mayor Ioseph Sellenius seem morose and defeated.
Rupert itself seems somewhat distracted, as if his mind is somewhere else.
His daugther Rade Surtova asks Porablum to sit next to her.
"What do you think? Did father do things correctly? I am worried, as the Dwarf paladin refused to take the oath, and some of the others don't seem to like him... Father was never involved in this kind of... politics."
She seems worried, and afraid.
Anando Verisisi, steward to Rupert Surtova, approaches Aolis Greenborn.
"I hope you understand that for any future meetings of the lords following His Majesty Rupert Surtova the First into Sloboda, his new kingdom, do not include Lord Axhammer Rocknose. We still hope to count with the participation of the other leaders of the Righteous Wanderers which do took the loyalty oath."
Kesten Garess, leader of His Majesty Rupert Surtova's troops, keeps watch behind him, eyeing Axhammer suspiciously.
Rudolf Ferdinand Aldori III spends all the time talking with many Restov nobles and merchants. Politics at full!
The Four Swords spend the rest of the night chasing girls. Don Khavortorov after Rade Surtova, Ralph Khavortorov after Ishana Tamanna and Angelo and Michael after local nobles (which seem they know from before, for the husband's reactions).
The Cenobitic Monk and Girl will keep for themselves unless someone of you engages them.
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The dinner ends without any more surprises. The conservative members of Restov business class are somewhat happy, while the independentists feel like they have lost all hope.
People start to leave, Lord Mayor Ioseph Sellemius and Rupert Surtova (and his retinue) are some of the first to leave.
Hareth will, after dinner, approach the young monk girl and ask her "Well, what did you think of the oathtaking ritual? and the dinner? IT all seems a bit over the top to me, but I can understand his reasons for asking such oaths... I am surprised that not all of us were asked to swear oaths, but I guess our affiliation with our leaders is enough for the new king. Politics is not my forte, so I'm a bit out of my depth here. Anyway, would you consider walking with me a bit, perhaps mingling with others, or just walking about the grounds?"
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The Cenobitic Girl face ligths up when Hareth talks to her and invites her to walk. She accepts, eagerly.
"This is all so new to me! The lights! The clothes! The food! Everything is so... rich! I fear I am very naive, and don't know anything about this, but I feel like I am in a dream..."
She looks directly into Hareth eyes.
"And now I am here with you, and I wish I never wake up."
As you leave for the grounds, the eyes of the Cenobitic monk follow you, with a hard worried stare.
"You know, you've never told me your name, my dear... I thought perhaps that might be some kind of vow, but would you share it with me anyway? I need to know who it is whose eyes are comparable to the star-filled heavens." He walks with her around the area, taking her arm when walking on rough terrain like think grasses, and not relinquishing it after. "and I too wish this night not end."
Azrael will stay and chat for a bit with others... especially looking for an opportunity to speak with Axhammer... "Hello, Ax. What did you think of the proceedings tonight? I have a feeling you aren't feeling favorable toward the new king. I'm curious about your decision not to take the temporal oath to Rupert... I understand not wanting a conflict with your religious oaths, but would you explain it to me a bit more, as I don't see the conflict, myself and would like to understand your reasoning... Do you mind?"
If Axhammer brushes him off or declines to comment, he'll shrug and wish him a 'good night' before withdrawing. If he wants to talk, Azrael will listen and offer neither opposing views nor counsel, simply a friendly ear.
When the time approaches for leaving for the (secret) meeting, he'll excuse himself and head back to camp to recover his weapons and armor.
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Dagit goes to the king shortly after dinner to speak with him My lord it bothers me that Axhammer did not swear to you. It is a poor choice, but none the less, we cannot afford to lose such a powerful ally. If it pleases you, I will personally vouch for him. If anything befalls you because of him, I will make it my own duty to see that he is punished or convinced the error of his ways... So help me, the gods shall be the final judge.
During and after the dinner, Alysandra continues to make contacts with the Restov contingent, particularly the merchants; she, of course, is looking to make cartage plans for trade into (and out of!) the new kingdom. People will be needing things, people will be wanting things, resupply will be necessary, treasure found will be spent, and Alysandra does her best to make a point of reminding the merchants about such things - and about how having someone with a dozen wagons willing to move things around can only help. She's not out to actually draw up contracts - can't do that at a diplomatic dinner - but instead is out to put into their minds the benefits of working and associating with the International Businessmen.
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Dagit goes to the king shortly after dinner to speak with him My lord it bothers me that Axhammer did not swear to you. It is a poor choice, but none the less, we cannot afford to lose such a powerful ally. If it pleases you, I will personally vouch for him. If anything befalls you because of him, I will make it my own duty to see that he is punished or convinced the error of his ways... So help me, the gods shall be the final judge.
Diplomacy=11 (Natural 1)
Rupert seems unimpressed.
"We are not losing him as an ally, because he doesn't want to be an ally to us. He can accompany us into the Stolen Lands, but he won't be one of us, in his mind or heart. And won't be one of us in our mind or heart either. He took his choice, we stand by ours."
For the rest of the dinner Ignatius keeps to himself, pondering over the recent events, and occasionally chatting with the other members of his group "The Blessed Hospitalers". For his dinner he drinks no alcohol only water as stated by his code of conduit and, unused to feasts, does his best to eat humbly without drawing attention of other guests, ignoring the awkward felling during the meal.
As the dinner ends, Ignatius thanks politely and leaves to the "hospitalers" camp, were he makes his night prayers to Iomedae, before equipping his armor and weapons in preparation for the meeting, doing his best to cover his equipment with his cape. Unsure what to expect he asks Omadurk to keep everyone ready but in low profile, taking with him only one follower as a messenger, instructing him to remain with Christian´s group.
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"You know, you've never told me your name, my dear... I thought perhaps that might be some kind of vow, but would you share it with me anyway? I need to know who it is whose eyes are comparable to the star-filled heavens." He walks with her around the area, taking her arm when walking on rough terrain like think grasses, and not relinquishing it after. "and I too wish this night not end."
The Cenobitic girl blush.
"I have always been called oracle by my brothers and sisters... because of my dreams. Yes, I also wish the night last forever."|
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During and after the dinner, Alysandra continues to make contacts with the Restov contingent, particularly the merchants; she, of course, is looking to make cartage plans for trade into (and out of!) the new kingdom. People will be needing things, people will be wanting things, resupply will be necessary, treasure found will be spent, and Alysandra does her best to make a point of reminding the merchants about such things - and about how having someone with a dozen wagons willing to move things around can only help. She's not out to actually draw up contracts - can't do that at a diplomatic dinner - but instead is out to put into their minds the benefits of working and associating with the International Businessmen.
She, as expected, cause a commotion, and is very successful in doing future business contacts.
One thing she's going to make sure she does, however, is introduce herself (or, better, wrangle an introduction by someone else) to Rade Surtova. "Your Highness," she greets the young woman while dropping into a deep curtsey finely calculated to her slightly-less-than-her-father rank. "My name is Alysandra Janus; my brother, Coalhouse, was the last to make oath. We are but lowly commoners, albeit the ones in charge of moving your household. If, while on the road, you have a need for anything that might have been left in your baggage, feel free to let me know, and I'll be delighted to retrieve it. Also," she adds, glancing one way to shiver a wink at Porablum, "if you find yourself in need of someone to shoo away particularly persistent pests," and here she slides a sly-but-playful glance sideways at Don Khavortorov, and her lips curling impishly upwards to let the girl know too that she's teasing the man, "well, I might be able to help with that too."
Rade Surtova smiles.
"Don't you dare! Mister Don Khavortorov will be my escort tonight! It is a pleasure to be your acquaintance, and I think you, and your brother, are wonderful people. I am really happy father included you as on of his..."She then stops, realizing she is speaking more than she should.
"Never mind! I am very happy you are going to accompany us into the new Kingdom. Our new kingdom."
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As the dinner ends, Ignatius thanks politely and leaves to the "hospitalers" camp, were he makes his night prayers to Iomedae, before equipping his armor and weapons in preparation for the meeting, doing his best to cover his equipment with his cape. Unsure what to expect he asks Omadurk to keep everyone ready but in low profile, taking with him only one follower as a messenger, instructing him to remain with Christian´s group.
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Striding up to the King he bows head before speaking, "I have oaths that I swore long before you were born, you ask for an oath to join you and serve your line. With no timeline on when service would be done. I have other obligations that may come between that oath, for if I live to my old age I will see your grandchildren grow old, and thier children grow up. I cannot be here so long, you said you were not a pious man, I am, and if any of the Five calls to me and bids me to go I must follow thier call. Surely you realize this was not meant to offend you but simply to tell you the truth. I cannot guarentee that I will be here in 10 years, or when your grandchild takes the throne, or thier grandchildren. Simply put its not that I don't wish to join you its that I can't promise you that I will be here in 10 years time, or perhaps 5 if something happens in the World Wound that calls for another Crusade.
Looking up at the human, he took in the question, "Perhaps should he decide that Clerics are not out to lie to him, and willingly lie to him he will learn more. I had no thoughts of not going into this land and helping the People and cleansing the land of Bandits as well as those forces that would destroy civilization.I won't be leaving my fellows to fly into this path without me, and of course i would be honored to stop by your camp and talk over this...situation.
"Dagit, his oath goes beyond tolerable, and he was right he isn't a pious man. I havn't had time to Divine or even Question the Gods on what they wish me to do in this situation, fore this situation is now unlike the one that I expected to be coming into. I will be there with all of you for as long as you require me to assist you. I was after all invited to some sort of meeting."
It seemed that he was almost as popular as the king was idiotic, and heretical. "Sir Azareal, it is rude to say out loud, but I will attempt to not dance around the question. I will live much longer than the King, and his Daughter, what would happen if I swore this oath and had to choose between the oath and falling from grace. After all there is a chance that somewhere down the line one of his heirs will be Chaotic, or Evil. Swearing to follow his line till I die isn't in me. I have other places I wish to visit in say a hundred years or so, I have already been looking into the Star Stone and what it has taken for those that rose above thier mortal selves. I want to learn more,not just that but more of all the things this world has in it. Being shackeled to this Nation till the end of my days would kill that. Not only that but I have other oaths I am accountable too, such as to the Hellknight Order of Godclaw, and to the Five Gods. Are there any other questions you have for me?"
If there are those that wish to speak he will speak to them.
If no one else wishes to speak with him, Axhammer goes forth gathers the Rangers, Cleric, and his Adopted son, explains to them the situation. Once Explained he leaves several letters for the Younglings to deliver should he not make it back from the meeting alive or should he be attacked by certain parties, to be delivered to the GodClaw Commander, as well as the Head Clerics of Abadar. Once this is done, he prepares for war, placeing on his armor, and pulling out his weapons, sharpening them.
To Alexander he leaves orders to move the troops out and to be ready to either charge in to assist him, or to flee the area should he be slain. No excuses, no talking back, there would be time for tears later if something goes wrong, but not wasn't the time.
Once Fully armed, he makes his way to the Camp that he was instructed to visit, and Waves the Flag fore and aft to signal that he came in peace, before entering the camp, "Sir Christian asked for me", said the tall [for a gnome] Hellknight to the guards "my name is Sir Axhammer Rocknose, see that he knows that I am here for the meeting."
Azrael sighs and nods... "Thank you for your explanation... I'll not try to dissuade you from your chosen path... but I appreciate your time.. Have a good eve, sir knight." With that, he departs and goes about preparing for the meeting. Not sure where he got the idea that swearing fealty to Rupert was swearing fealty to his line in perpetuity. I swore fealty only to Rupert, not his House, not his line. I guess his longevity gives him a different perspective. I wish him well, whatever he decides though."
As soon as he can, Coalhouse will depart the dinner, with the excuse (should anyone ask) of making sure everything is prepared for the 'morrow; he'll have an eye out for anyone else making tracks at the same time. The fact of the matter is he spends less than ten minutes at the back of the King's camp.
"Everything quiet?" Coalhouse asks his eldest brother.
Ghent Maston, who is sitting outside what the family is calling 'the command tent' - i.e. Coalhouse's big pavilion - is watching (or, well, trying to watch) Jocasta, Quentin, Lida, Delga, and Burl (family all) trying to teach Freiya Fjar-Bana-Högg the rules behind the game of rounders (yes, in the dark, or at least in torchlight - two elves, three half-orcs, and a dwarf, after all), and shakes his head at the quiet female dwarven archer. "Somethin' wrong with that girl," the older man replies, shaking his head before looking up at Coalhouse. "Yeah, all quiet. Jocasta came back all disappointed-like - Coursers didn't want her stickin' around inside their camp, no bloody idea why. She also said they were exceedingly polite - said that fop d'Elagante kept calling her 'lady'."
Coalhouse grunts, then ducks inside the tent for under a minute, depositing most of the 'glitter' inside and re-emerging in 'work clothes.' He wears the generally-brown and -green mix of leather and denim of the working man, with the 'adventurer's add-on' of a stained brown cloak of a workable wool, with a dozen or more convenient little pockets on the inside. He carries a backpack under the cloak, and has gotten his 'necessary gear' - two wands, four daggers, and two whips - in their concealed-carry locations (or, for the whips, inside the backpack), a quiver of arrows on his left hip, and a composite shortbow carried with one end taut to the tip but the other unstrung and wrapped around the grip, ready to be pulled into place. "Qadim and Arasëa still awake?"
The almost-middle-aged human gives a shrug, lifting his mug of whatever-it-is to his lips. "Should be. Why?"
"Go get her." Ghent climbs out of his chair and hurries off as the orc strides out into the 'rounders game' which, for the most part, is just a game of catch; at a soft whistle and a 'come over' gesture, the ball is caught and the six players drift towards him. "Right, match-up time. We have the Restov Coursers, the Righteous Wanderers, and the Blessed Hospitallers. I need one spotter and one rider for each. Don't pick your favorite," he adds as Jocasta's arm shoots up. "This is sneaky spotting-but-not-spotted work, especially not so someone recognizes you. Jocasta, you're with ..." He blinked as Freiya lifted her hand. "Really? You sure?" The dwarf nodded mutely, her expression still melancholy. "All right, Jocasta and Freiya, the Righteous Wanderers. Lida ... hmm." He looked around, and gave an 'ah' as Qadim and Arasëa, led by Ghent and trailed by Tomlin, rounded a tent.
"What's going on, Coalhouse?" Arasëa asked with a slight shift to her stance that always made him think of a horse waiting to run.
"Spotters and runners, Ara," replied the half-orc, making Ghent's eyebrows lift. "King Rudolf has asked to meet the top dogs a few miles south of here, and going by some of the attitudes at the party, I'm not sure there aren't going to be people looking for a bit of a fight. You know my philosophy - if you know what everyone else is doing, you get to pick the fights you want, avoid the ones you don't. Tomlin, you up to ride?"
When the young man nodded, Coalhouse turned and ordered, "Jocasta, go get your and Tomlin's horses ready." His half-sister turned and kicked into a sprint for the horse line. This sort of planning-ahead decisiveness is why so many of his half- and full-siblings followed him - he planned ahead, and wasn't afraid to pull one of the crossbows' triggers if he thought it was time for it.
Turning to the others, he continued. "All right, everyone gets to play. Lida, you're spotter on the Hospitallers. Delga, you get to be her guard. Quentin, Burl, same thing but on the Coursers. Arasëa, if you'll ride messenger for Lida? Thank you. Tomlin, you get to ride for Quentin. Everyone moves light, no weapons but your brass knucks. Trouble comes a-looking, you stick together, try to get away before brawling, got it? Armor's okay, but leave the big weapons behind." With a general acknowledgement, he waved his hand and said, "Go get what you need, get to the horse line fastest. Tomlin, I'm serious about the big weapons - leave the scimitar here. And wear a cloak."
As all but Qadim and Ghent scattered, Ghent silently queried him with his upraised eyebrows. Coalhouse grinned tightly, and gestured for the two to follow him to the horse line. "I wasn't the only one to leave early; there's going to be other movement, and I don't want to be surprised. Qadim, you're my backup plan. I need you ready to take care of any of them that come in banged up. Ghent, roust ... hm. Look, roust Zoe and Gyorg, have them go up to the party and wait outside; they get to be Aly's escorts home, and no arguments from any of them. They're to stay there until she comes out, I don't care if they have to take turns napping outside the door. With everything that's rumbling around here, I want her back safe, not bleeding out in a ditch.
"Meeting's for third hour after midnight, three miles south of here. All our watchers and riders should be back by, what - two and a half? If they aren't, you roust everyone, send 'em out armed, in trios, until they find our missing people and bring 'em home. I come back to find someone not here, you can bet I'll be a little irate." Now at the horse lines, Coalhouse stopped and helped Jocasta finish saddling up Tomlin's mount while the rest trickled back in, all armored up.
"All right, listen up. Spotters, you stay quiet and stealthy, get in close enough to count heads leaving. Make sure you have a full count, which direction they're headed - they'll probably be going south, so stay out of the way they're likely to head, but make sure that's their direction of travel. Guards, keep within visual distance of your person; spotters, know where they are, because that's where you'll pull back through. Yes, Freiya, you're your own guard. Once you see which way any significant group or individuals - you know who the leaders are - go, pull back to the rider and give them the information.
"Riders, you'll be at least fifty yards away. When you get the message, ride quiet and on the side of the road for at least a few hundred yards, then you can use the road; ride briskly, not break-neck. If the people you're reporting on are on the road ahead of you, stay back at least a quarter-mile, but come on ahead and let me know who's who. If they wind up behind you, try to widen the gap. I'll be waiting, probably hiding, about a couple miles to the south and downwind, so when you get that far, if there's nobody around, slow to a walk, and I'll come out to you. Don't go any further than two and a half; if you have, pull back, get off the road and into cover downwind, and wait for me. If someone's coming from behind, get the hell off the road and under cover downwind. I'll be looking into any information y'all have brought - or if someone comes a-hotfootin' it that you don't see - but I'll try to check back every half-hour or so. You're left waiting more than an hour, you leave, check your team, and get everyone back here. If you're on your way back and somebody's coming, get off the road and into cover downwind until they pass, then keep going back to town. This I can't emphasize enough: no fraggin' light, got it?" He looks around until he has visual confirmation of everyone's agreement.
"If the spotter is noticed from the camp, you and the guard pull out right away, rider comes to let me know. If you send a message but it's still early, feel free to continue keeping watch; riders, when you leave me you can go back to your post. See if your spotters are still in place, and if they are, resume your post. I want last messages no later than two hours past midnight, and all of you back here no later than two-thirty past.
"Somebody sets on you, you stick together - run if you can, fight if you have to. I see a couple of you have knives; use the brass knuckles first. We're the Basterds, we fight to win, but let's not kill anyone we don't have to. Busting out a couple of teeth might convince them you aren't worth hassling. If worse comes to worst, when the time comes," and here he nods at Ghent, "there'll be search parties going out. So no foolin' around - go out, do your spotting, come back. You all stay up until you're all back safe. Any questions?"
Quentin's hand went up. "Townies were a little rowdy earlier. What do we do if someone - from the camp or whatever - DOES come towards us?
"If it's from the camp, pull back quiet, link up with your guard, then your rider. If it If your rider's already been sent, you come back here; if they haven't keep pulling back for a few minutes, then send the rider with that information. And then get your butt back here. If it's a townie, same thing, but don't send the rider, wait until they move along, then go back to watching. If it's a damn bloody mob, get your butt out of there. Any other questions?"
There were none.
"Great. Skedaddle. Stay safe." As they split off and headed out, he looked towards Ghent and Qadim; Ghent nodded slowly, and Coalhouse headed out himself.
He's got a good movement and a decent CON, so doing some sneaking and watching and such shouldn't be too terrible. With the way he has everything set up, he should hopefully get information ahead of larger groups of people; though Tomlin doesn't have any sort of night sight, a road should be relatively easy to follow at night in the open, and everyone else involved DOES have low-light or darkvision.
If there ARE groups that come out that way, Coalhouse will trail them (between 90' darkvision and taking 10 with Scent, this should not pose a problem) while staying out of sight himself. (Again, 90' darkvision comes into its own - being able to see farther than most others can helps in remaining unseen.) He'll try to identify them, then either follow until they establish themselves in a location, or if they've gone further than four miles out from town/the camps.
Scent: Survival DC of a fresh scent 10; Take 10, Survival +3.
Scent: Survival DC of a fresh scent 10; Take 10, Survival +3.
Scent also lets me smell someone downwind 15', nearby 30', and upwind 60'; I get directional with a move action which I would immediately be taking, then first taking cover and then looking in that direction to get a visual.
Anyhow, that's what I can think of. I do not plan on attacking anyone; if spotted, I'll immediately try to break contact, withdraw movement, all that fun stuff. Definitely use trees and other cover to break sight lines, get low, and keep moving through the darkness.
Amavin glances around at the party, checking to see if a various 'shaker' at the party required her attention. If not, she heads in the direction of Ishana, tapping her on the shoulder and gradually pulling her aside.
"I don't want you at the afterparty, but I do want you nearby. This grouping is certainly volatile, so I'll need you to be nearby if at all possible. Take your sword, expect trouble. I expect you to patrol the perimeter. I fully expect that I won't be the only person making precautions, so if you see other defenders, don't hide your presence, stick around".
With that, Amavin sweeps out the door, getting a head start on preparations. She meets with her followers, fully aware that thanks to her magnetic personality, she has quite the number of them. After gathering them all from the security of her camp, Amavin addresses them all. "Everyone knows that by and large, I don't tend to demand things of you. I'm always accepting of help, and I'm happy to take on people that wish to follow, but I dislike ordering people around, its not me. That said, tonight is a little bigger than us, and I would feel better if we assisted with the security of the stolen lands. I'll need to be heading off to a meeting, and I want all twenty eight of you to be outside, I want you looking, observing. What I don't want you doing, is guarding the perimeter, a crowd of people standing nearby is hardly the best way to keep a secret meeting hidden from assassin's. Be nearby to respond if assistance is required, otherwise hang around a spellcaster, they can contact me or Ishana with suitable use of a Message spell. Ishana knows the warning signals, she can light them up in the sky at a moments notice. You are looking for anyone that might be disrupting the meeting, or alternatively has no right to be there, best of luck".
After speaking to her loyal followers, Amavin heads for the meeting point. She is a little concerned about spies, but she had long ago learnt how to conceal her presence. If she wanted, she could simply fly to the meet point, or turn invisible, instead, she simply rides a house, using her Obscuring Mist spell. It won't hide her presence, but it does hide her identity from any observers, something Amavin is rather pleased about.
Ishana allows Ralph to continue chasing her throughout the party, but lightly breaks away at Amavin's singla. After listening quietly to her instructions, she nods her head in agreement, before returning to Ralph's side.
"My humble apologies, Ralph, duty appears to drag me away frequently tonight. Ralph, as I understand it, you might be observing a duel, or at least acting as a valuable second. Maybe we should head outside, and you and I can retrieve our blades in preparation?"
Anando Verisisi, steward to Rupert Surtova, approaches Aolis Greenborn.
"I hope you understand that for any future meetings of the lords following His Majesty Rupert Surtova the First into Sloboda, his new kingdom, do not include Lord Axhammer Rocknose. We still hope to count with the participation of the other leaders of the Righteous Wanderers which do took the loyalty oath."
Kesten Garess, leader of His Majesty Rupert Surtova's troops, keeps watch behind him, eyeing Axhammer suspiciously.
Aolis had been thinking and the interruption to his thoughts was not welcome. He showed no annoyance or amusement, rather a glacial indifference as he looked upon the halfling and replied.
"I do not speak for much less command Sir Axhammer, if you wish to address anything concerning him. You would do well to do so yourself on behalf of your master. That is, if you wish to avoid any misunderstandings with him. I will pass along your message to the others though, Mr. Anando."
So it seemed Axhammer's invitation was revoked. To invite someone to a private meeting, only to reject them when they did not agree with your every action. This would be king is not going to last and he is spreading more damage in a day then his cousin did in years. Was it ignorance, inexperience, or arrogance. Did it matter, he could see the cracks this hammer of a man was making. Their was still time, yet even that was being shortened. If Rupert did not change his ways in short order, he would have little to worry about. Someone was going to take his head, sadly that would not be the end of it. He could only hope it would not be the beginning.
As the dinner dies down and his host departs, so does Aolis after excusing himself. He informs the others of the message before he leaves. He returns to camp long enough to shed the guise of the nobleman and write upon a scroll. He gathers his people to address them inside his spacious tent.
"I will be leaving with Sacha shortly for a meeting. Protect the camp and keep on guard while we are gone."
With his orders given and Sacha back in her regular garb. The pair leave on their mounts. Mighty Fylson gallops below the stars and moon with tireless effort, Sacha's impressive war horse is not as dwarfed as others of it's kind would be next to the primal elk. Yet it still seems smaller then it would otherwise due to the giant rack of horns borne by Fylson. They arrive in short order at the meeting site. Aolis adjust his seat to throw both legs to one side of Fylson as the massive elk folds it's legs and lays upon the earth. It bulk and rack now giving it more the impression of a small tree and bushes to those without keen eyes.
"I suppose now we wait."
Aolis keeps alert, he had only been given reasons not to trust Rupert of late. If he was half the man needed for these endeavors then that would change, yet life was every the teacher to him so he would see proof of that before he considered it anything but wishful thinking.
Once dinner is concluded, christian makes his way around the room to meet some of the leaders from the other groups.
Lady Amavin Zephyra:
Bowing respectfully...
My Lady, it is good to meet you finally, I beg you to please excuse my lack of decorum, but might I borrow your ear for a moment please.
Christian will lead her some distance away from the talking nobles. With a low voice...
My Lady, This event that is happening in the future. I feel we should discuss this in private with the other leaders and the heads of each individual group. I hope that you could join us after midnight tonight to discuss this further. Please bring appropriate mounts and at least one wall man to the meeting. Christian thinks for second that she might not know what he means by wallman.
Someone you trust with your life.
Christian gives her a look of concern..
I am not sure what we are to expect, but I would like to have many contingency plans in the works if I can.
He looks around casually...
My lady if you are able to..could you make contact with the other leaders in The Blessed Hospitallers and let them know my invitation extends to them as well. That would help out greatly. Now I beg your leave My Lady.
If Amavin is not available
Sir Ignatius Digenes Akritas:
Bowing respectably...
My Lord, it is good to meet you finally, I beg you to please excuse my lack of decorum, but might I borrow your time for a moment please.
Christian will walk beside him some distance away from the talking nobles. With a low voice...
My Lord, This event that is happening in the future. I feel we should discuss this in private with the other leaders and the heads of each individual group. I hope that you could join us after midnight tonight to discuss this further. Please bring appropriate mounts and at least one wall man to the meeting. Christian thinks for second that he might not know what he means by wallman.
Someone you trust with your life.
Christian gives him a look of concern..
I am not sure what we are to expect, but I would like to have many contingency plans in the works if I can.
He looks around casually...
It seems the Lady Amavin has retired for the evening...My Lord if you are able to..could you make contact with the other leaders in The Blessed Hospitallers and let them know my invitation extends to them as well. That would help out greatly. Now I beg your leave My Lord.
Dagit Downhill:
Lord Downhill, Good Evening to you. I was hoping to have a talk with you. Am I interrupting anything...I am Christian of the Coursers.
Christian will walk beside the Dwarf Cleric a few feet away.
I am having a impromptu meeting tonight at the coursers encampment to discuss plans for this future meeting. I was hoping to have you join us tonight, your council would be most welcomed. If you feel up to it that is. Tonight after midnight, bring mounts and at least one wallmen. I would ask that you could extend this invite to the other leaders of The Righteous Wanderers. Please and Thank you for your time. I hope you will be able to join us. My Lord.
Christina steps back and give a slight bow. He moves on his way.
Coalhouse Porter:
Christian looks around for the last person on his list.....
He does not see Coalhouse in the party area...he does see Alysandra doing her best to win the hearts of the merchants...
hmm Well maybe..not worth it.
no Coalhouse..hmmm
Christian moves on to make sure the rest of the Coursers are ready for the meeting tonight.
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Dagit Downhill:
Lord Downhill, Good Evening to you. I was hoping to have a talk with you. Am I interrupting anything...I am Christian of the Coursers.
Christian will walk beside the Dwarf Cleric a few feet away.
I am having a impromptu meeting tonight at the coursers encampment to discuss plans for this future meeting. I was hoping to have you join us tonight, your council would be most welcomed. If you feel up to it that is. Tonight after midnight, bring mounts and at least one wallmen. I would ask that you could extend this invite to the other leaders of The Righteous Wanderers. Please and Thank you for your time. I hope you will be able to join us. My Lord.
Christina steps back and give a slight bow. He moves on his way.
Dagit huffs and bows, of course, send my regards. I'll be there and I will inform the others. as the courser leaves Dagit turns to Selena, my dear, will you ask the other leaders to join me in this meeting? Selena nods and leaves to inform the others.
Dagit has to deal with the meeting at hand right now... he had donned his dragon-plate armor, and his magical mace hangs at his side.
Dismounting as they arrived, she felt far better out of that dress and back in her armor and road clothes. Truth be told she felt almost naked in those light fabrics and get up. Unlike Aolis she did not trust Fudor to rise quickly if events called for it, the war horse would remain standing. As did she with the reins in her hand. She wanted to call upon some light, unlike the elf she did not see well in the dark. Both of them could summon some light but no doubt Aolis had the same thought she did. That would mark them for at least a mile if not more. With the stars and moon it was not a pitch black night yet hers were human eyes. Still it was some consolation that the Surtova was no better off, he would be as nearly blind as her if not more so without any light.
"I don't like the way all this is lining up."
She got no reply from Aolis.
"The Aldori are acting strangely as well."
At that the wizard hissed for silence. Her guard went up, a hand on her rapier with the sound of blood rushing in her ears for a moment as they searched the silence and insects. After a while nothing, she turned to give him a dirty look. That blank face he had started wearing was all she got. That was not good, he was worried. That was never good.
Azrael sends Joanni, his fastest runner, to go find Hareth and ask him to return to camp at least an hour before midnight... "Just tell him it's important he be here. I need his presence." Then, fully armed and armored again, he studies maps of the Stolen Lands while he waits.
When Joanni arrives at the dinner to summon Hareth back to camp, she notices him deep in conversation with a young woman and seems nervous about approaching the pair, but she has her orders and finally does so. "Hareth, I hate to drag you away from more pleasurable pursuits, kiddo, but Az needs ya back at camp before midnight. Sorry missy, he's gotta go when the bossman calls." She addresses this last to the oracle.
Hareth sighs and looks at Oracle, taking both her hands in his... "I think I'll call you Rachel... it's close and sounds prettier... Rachel, my dear, I really do have to go... this evening has been wonderful, made magical by your presence... I hope to see you again. Very soon. Will you allow me to call on you again?"
His daugther Rade Surtova asks Porablum to sit next to her.
"What do you think? Did father do things correctly? I am worried, as the Dwarf paladin refused to take the oath, and some of the others don't seem to like him... Father was never involved in this kind of... politics."
She seems worried, and afraid.
Porablum happily sits next to Rade, the better to chat with the girl and make sure a certain dashing swordsman doesn't get too forward. Throughout the swearing, she continually looks at Aramil, concerned about the crisis of conscience she sees written on his face. I'm starting to genuinely like this girl, and if he can't swear, I likely won't be able to look out for her. Upon his name being called, she watches his face set in resolution before he approaches the king, and she breathes a small sigh of relief as he swears the oath.
After the swearing, as Rade asks her questions, Porablum thinks for a moment before answering, choosing her words carefully, "For most, I doubt it has little to do with him personally. The citizens of Rostland, in which the city of Restov sits, fought subjugation by Choral the Conqueror, the Swordlords in particular. Though they have been ruled by the Rogarvians since conquest as part of the nation of Brevoy, with the Rogarvian disappearance, they are not at all convinced they should be ruled by your father's cousin, Noleski, even with his tangential claim to the Dragonscale Throne. Your father simply has the misfortune of sharing a last name, and having been appointed by him to lead this expedition. As for the paladin - who happens to not be a Dwarf but a Gnome, albeit a much more serious one than myself - I rather suspect that your father heard his oath as trying to slide around swearing fealty, as opposed to the way it was intended. His response likely made Axhammer feel as though your father was asking him to forgo his previously sworn oaths to the gods, as well as his oaths as a Hellknight of the Order of the Godclaw. Perhaps, in a less public setting, your father and Axhammer could talk and come to some sort of arrangement, such as a term on the length of his oath. That seems to be a sticking point for him, and it may be worth negotiating."
Looking at Rade, she says, "Your father's inexperience in politics may also have offended some, and caused some hurt feelings. In time, those can hopefully be smoothed over. I know kings are supposed to never publicly apologize, but in private, I'm sure he would probably be willing to do so. A question, if I may. I imagined that the Regent appointed your father to this position due to their closeness and your father's ability. Was that not the case?"
One thing she's going to make sure she does, however, is introduce herself (or, better, wrangle an introduction by someone else) to Rade Surtova. "Your Highness," she greets the young woman while dropping into a deep curtsey finely calculated to her slightly-less-than-her-father rank. "My name is Alysandra Janus; my brother, Coalhouse, was the last to make oath. We are but lowly commoners, albeit the ones in charge of moving your household. If, while on the road, you have a need for anything that might have been left in your baggage, feel free to let me know, and I'll be delighted to retrieve it. Also," she adds, glancing one way to shiver a wink at Porablum, "if you find yourself in need of someone to shoo away particularly persistent pests," and here she slides a sly-but-playful glance sideways at Don Khavortorov, and her lips curling impishly upwards to let the girl know too that she's teasing the man, "well, I might be able to help with that too."
As Alysandra comes over and makes her introductions to Rade, she responds to the wink with a knowing smile. As Rade gushes slightly over Don, she looks at Don Khavortorov, she says, "He has not been a terrible escort this evening, either. I do believe, however, you were just telling us about the time those bandits mistook you for an easy mark..." keeping him distracted in talking about his adventures.
Amavin considers Christian's offer. "I think I would decline such an offer of a meeting, working with the assumption that Axhammer is also likely to attend."
Amavin pauses, tilting her head to one side slightly as she thinks this over some more, before continuing."Axhammer's reasons for not swearing the oath are his own, as well as being personal and I won't force them. That said, as a result of his refusal, the king has made it abundantly clear he is to avoid taking part in diplomatic discussions around the Stolen Lands. Therefore, from a diplomatic perspective, it would be unwise to immediately enter into a secret meeting with several of the major players here, and still include Axhammer. How does that reflect on the kings decision? To my mind, it risks undermining his leadership. In addition, while I respect Axhammer's decision, I do not personally agree with with his reasons, in short, nothing he has said today makes me feel that he is a reliable or trustworthy individual, therefore, any alliance we discussed at such a meeting I would feel uncomfortable with. Therefore, Lord Christian, I fear I shall have to decline, until such a time as the circumstances set my personal concerns with Axhammer at rest. I'm happy speaking with the other representatives in a private matter, at a later date, if you wish, my concerns, are only with Axhammer at the present. As for The Blessed Hospitallers, my ruling, is not there's, you are welcome to approach any of them for an invitation, but I will not be attending".
Aramil will chat with those he is seated near throughout dinner about the upcoming expedition, avoiding the mention of the topic of the oaths. He will keep an eye on Porablum seated with Rade, and brainstorm ways to guide the king into supporting an independent Rostland.
Once the Lord-Mayor and King Rupert have left, he will also take his leave, returning to the camp of the Restov Coursers. Upon his return, he will lock his jewelry back up, remove the sleeves of many garments, and don his armor and weapons. Pleased to be back in his proper equipment, he calls together the few who, for whatever reason, followed him on this quest, and said, "Tonight, in the small hours of the morning, I have a meeting south of the city with King Rupert. He has asked the commanders of all the groups to the meeting. Lord Christian has arranged for a contingent of his troops to be standing by in case this is a trap. I intend for you to remain here."
Looking at each of them, he says, "King Rupert asked each of us to swear fealty to him tonight, so I do not fear an attack from him. I will rely on Lord Christian's troops for rescue. Do not follow me."
After getting their assents, he says, "Good. I have a meeting in Lord Christian's tent with the other leaders. I will be there should you need me."
He will then head towards Lord Christian's tent.
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Not sure where he got the idea that swearing fealty to Rupert was swearing fealty to his line in perpetuity. I swore fealty only to Rupert, not his House, not his line. I guess his longevity gives him a different perspective. I wish him well, whatever he decides though."
In fact when you swore you swore to his line. He is going to give you some privileges that doesn't end with his death. Not even with yours. The normal idea is that your descendants keep the oath to theirs. Forever.
But, of course, that is the theory. Many things happen over the years.Just think this as a feudal oath of allegiance. It is supposed to be forever, including children, unless you renounce it and loss all the "perks" that your liege lord gives you.
After the King and Mayor leaves, Trawets rounds up Bachu, "The King has gone, I am taking it that we can leave now without upsetting anyone. Let's head back and change into more businesslike clothes."
When they get back to their camp Bachu's breastplate is sitting prominently posed, colored in shades of blue and red. Upon seeing it he screams, "Newton I'm going to wring your neck! Where are you?" There is a chuckling as the fairy dragon appears from behind a trunk and flies to Trawets' shoulder.
"Calm down Bachu. It's just another of Newton's little jokes. I'll clean it up for you." Trawets waves his hand and the armor is clean again. "See. All better. But now onto more serious things. I've a meeting with the other leaders that swore fealty tonight and the King. Bachu you are to remain here and be on guard. But I don't think, the King would be upset at you coming Newton. I'm going to cast some protective magics on myself and use the wand on you Newton. Just in case. You can hold the shield wand tonight and use it on me if trouble shows up. If I don't show back up Bachu, make sure the church knows what happened. But first we have a meeting at the Coursers camp to attend, the three of us."
After finishing putting on his working clothes, Trawets picks up his staff and heads out for the evening.
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Diplomacy=32
Striding up to the King he bows head before speaking, "I have oaths that I swore long before you were born, you ask for an oath to join you and serve your line. With no timeline on when service would be done. I have other obligations that may come between that oath, for if I live to my old age I will see your grandchildren grow old, and thier children grow up. I cannot be here so long, you said you were not a pious man, I am, and if any of the Five calls to me and bids me to go I must follow thier call. Surely you realize this was not meant to offend you but simply to tell you the truth. I cannot guarentee that I will be here in 10 years, or when your grandchild takes the throne, or thier grandchildren. Simply put its not that I don't wish to join you its that I can't promise you that I will be here in 10 years time, or perhaps 5 if something happens in the World Wound that calls for another Crusade.
His Majesty Rupert Surtova seems to ponder Axhammer answer.
"You are right we ask a lot from you. But in this time and place we cannot venture into our new Kingdom with nobles, that no matter how good reputation they have, we have not meet in person without an oath of fealty, and maybe more. We are not just placing our resources and sovereignty into this nobles, but we are placing the safety of our daughter in their hands. So, if you feel unable to do the oath, we thank you for your honesty, and we free you from taking it, wishing you well. And if you want to help us in our new kingdom, we would thank you for it, but you will understand it won't be in the same level of the sworn nobles."Looking up at the human, he took in the question, "Perhaps should he decide that Clerics are not out to lie to him, and willingly lie to him he will learn more. I had no thoughts of not going into this land and helping the People and cleansing the land of Bandits as well as those forces that would destroy civilization.I won't be leaving my fellows to fly into this path without me, and of course i would be honored to stop by your camp and talk over this...situation.
Rupert nods.
"Then we will thank you for your help, as much, and for as long as you are willing to provide it. Tomorrow we plan for us to move into my new kingdom, and we would be pleased to talk with you, tomorrow night, after our first day of march."It seemed that he was almost as popular as the king was idiotic, and heretical.
That doesn't seem very Lawful, as Axhammer is supposed to be.
Or he is really a double faced politician?
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"Right, match-up time. We have the Restov Coursers, the Righteous Wanderers, and the Blessed Hospitallers. I need one spotter and one rider for each."
Wow...
This was supposed to be a "secret" meeting, and Coalhouse is getting half a dozen people tailing the others?I didn't saw that coming.
I am not sure what the others will think of so many people skulking around their camps at night. Coalhouse people that is...
Coalhouse is headed south right bloody now. First thing is to figure out where the three-miles-south meeting spot is, then scout around for what he thinks would be the best hiding spots at ranges of 50', 100', and 300'. He'll not be moving particularly quietly for the first part, but he'll be trying not to leave any overt signs he was there. (It's dark, though, so that helps a LOT for him - 90' darkvision!)
That is easy... there are a couple dozen people setting up a pavilion, with lamps, food a big round table and chairs.
Amavin considers Christian's offer. "I think I would decline such an offer of a meeting, working with the assumption that Axhammer is also likely to attend."
Amavin pauses, tilting her head to one side slightly as she thinks this over some more, before continuing."Axhammer's reasons for not swearing the oath are his own, as well as being personal and I won't force them. That said, as a result of his refusal, the king has made it abundantly clear he is to avoid taking part in diplomatic discussions around the Stolen Lands. Therefore, from a diplomatic perspective, it would be unwise to immediately enter into a secret meeting with several of the major players here, and still include Axhammer. How does that reflect on the kings decision? To my mind, it risks undermining his leadership. In addition, while I respect Axhammer's decision, I do not personally agree with with his reasons, in short, nothing he has said today makes me feel that he is a reliable or trustworthy individual, therefore, any alliance we discussed at such a meeting I would feel uncomfortable with. Therefore, Lord Christian, I fear I shall have to decline, until such a time as the circumstances set my personal concerns with Axhammer at rest. I'm happy speaking with the other representatives in a private matter, at a later date, if you wish, my concerns, are only with Axhammer at the present. As for The Blessed Hospitallers, my ruling, is not there's, you are welcome to approach any of them for an invitation, but I will not be attending".
Christian stand patiently as Amavin talks, will continue to keep an eye around him for those that are listening in. Once she is done he sighs and rubs his nose..
Of course Axhammer will be there. Why would I not want a military man involved in military matters. This is not about politics or diplomacy. We are all going to be in the same area away from a well guarded city. You take that as you like but secrets always have a way of getting out to the wrong people...especially at a function like this. It might have been on the down low but I am sure it is out and too many people know of it. This could be a trap and it might not be. It could be...many things that I wish not to discuss here. Look I understand that you do not agree with what axhammer did, but he did what he did and that is the end of it. I can not change what he did. I can only adapt to what he did and soldier on. I wish you luck in your travels to the meeting. If you decide that you want to put your input into what we can do to protect ALL of us tonight if things get real hairy...then stop by the encampment. I would feel better if you traveled with us at least. Think on it.. Christian leans in closer and whispersALL the major players in the same area at the same time. We are meeting to protect ourselves, not to debate oaths and family backstabbing.
Christian steps away and in a normal voice
Good evening to you then
Amavin injects a bit more iron into her tone."I assure you, the possibility that this meeting might turn violent is not lost on me, nor do I need a military background to learn this. If I was unhappy with the Kings recent rulings such a meeting would be the perfect opportunity and you can be assured that I am worried about this fact. That said, I decline your offer to this pre-meeting again, because nothing I have seen from Axhammer indicates that he is in some way trustworthy. He strikes me as arrogant, rude, unpredictable and rash, simply put I don't trust him with any security arrangements, especially when he is unable to provide a simple non binding oath of support. Until this changes, I won't be present at this or any future meeting with Axhammers presence unless I can be persuaded he is suitably trustworthy. Good Night Christian, I will see you later."
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Selina pokes her head into each of the righteous wanderer's tents and smiles, delivering the news of the meeting Christian had set up before finally coming to Axhammer's tent... Sir Axhammer, are you here? there is a meeting with lord Christain... and Dagit thinks you should join... he supports you even though he swore to the king... I know he didn't want to, but his faith drives him to do it... please, I'm sure he will do everything to support you in the new lands...
Christian nods as she leaves...
shaking his head and chuckles a bit.
Christian walks away from this conversation towards Sir Ignatius Digenes Akritas , his mind trying to figure out why she is so hell bent on defending the king whom she just met.
She is so naive to the political arena she has been dragged into. Was she even present when the wanta be king talked down to pretty much everyone in that room. If they did not respond the way he wanted you too then he made it known. If you did not play by his rules and only his rules, then he pulled the attitude...I am keeping my toy soldiers and you can go home now. Maybe he should have given us a parchment with what it is we were to say. Several people took note to this and only one stuck by his gods over a mortal king with no kingdom. I do not see how she feels that axhammer is a threat to the ki....
Christian stops a server a takes another drink from the tray.
She is playing up to the king then. She has something going on with the king that she does not want to lose. That is why she is so adamant that axhammer is a foe, because he is the only one to openly decline the king. I could be wrong..more intel is needed.
Coming up to stand before Sir Ignatius Digenes Akritas
She is right she does not need a military background to figure this stuff out but what she does need is a lesson in morality.
My Lord...
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"If you want my oath, you will have to tell me three things. One for how long do you plan on this oath lasting? Secondly if my Gods call for me to be elsewhere, will you deign me the right to go where they will me? Lastly when you said to swear to your house and line, that was worded as if it would be eternally, surely you did not mean for it to sound that way?
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Rupert looks sadly at Axhammer.
"We asked for your oath, and you have denied it to us. Maybe in the future another chance will present itself to us, when you have proven yourself to us, and we have proven our value to you. About your questions, I plan this oath to last as long as your honor. If your gods call you elsewhere, we would expect you to ask for your liege permission, and accept his decision. We do not expect our line to exist eternally, and we can't expect an eternal fealty from anyone. Now I bid you farewell, and if you still want to support us in our push into our new kingdom, we expect to be able to talk to you tomorrow night, after our first day of march. And if your gods needs you elsewhere, we bid you good luck."
He bows, and turns towards the exit.
Corsario
Galahad0430
Dagit Downhill
