Matthias gets ready for the singing competition once he sends the page off to find his squire. I wonder what type of lad he is? Loafer or driven? Lord Domeric said the lad would be participating in the squires joust. Sorry Garran. I prey the Seven grant you favor tomorrow, but I am going to use the archery contest time to work with Gilean a bit before his joust. Muses Matthias, lost in thought as he gets ready.
The page looks at you wit a stupefied look "Er.." looking back and forth to you and your squire "Ser Matthias, he has been standing two paces behind you" when you turn our gaze he bows deeply "Ser Matthias, I've been learning by watching you" he look about 15 decently built, but no distinguishing trait you could notice and it would seem if someone were to pass in front of him you could lose him in the crowd.
Matthias raises an eyebrow as he finally notices Gilean, doing well to hide his surprise. I see. So, what have noticed in your observations? Matthias' asks tersely.
"You are rather bold in your statements and remain true to yourself regardless of consequence" he smiles to himself "You can also joust well Ser Matthias"
Matthias nods at Gilean's answer. In a measured voice, as though providing his own assessment of the boy, Well, you've shown yourself to be unobtrusive and observant.
His voice and face become hard, Is there something amusing to be true to oneself despite the outcome?
"I would like to keep my head attached that's all Ser Matthias" in an apologetic tone
His voice and expression become a bit softer, Relax, you will keep your head. However, I require a squire that understands the difference between being bold and being arrogant; that will conduct oneself with humility; that understands that being a Knight is a privilege and has a responsibility to serve all people, regardless of status snd standing; that has the courage to be true no matter the cost.
Matthias pauses, allowing his words to sink in before continuing in a calm tone of voice, Do you think that is within you?
He thinks long and thoroughly before giving an answer "For the most part, I guess I'll have to improve on other Ser Matthias"
We all do. I look forward to properly earning your respect and loyalty, as I have no doubt, you will earn mine. Matthias matter of factl states.
You have tonight to do with as you please. Remember yourself though, and that your conduct will be a reflection on me, House Naelareon, and the Darry name. On the morrow we shall begin.
Matthias then finishes getting cleaned up and ready for the singing competition.
Matthias applauds for Marcus' performance only to face palm himself and chuckle a bit at Darne's.
Will either of you be offering a performance? I would imagine it would be something truly inspiring to match the singer.
Ranel smiles "The only singer in my family is Soniya, she is a natural
Sosan nods and puts her arm under Ser Matthias arm and placing her hand on his arm like a couple, which garners a stare from Ranel "I see things have been going rather well for you in the joust, and happy to see my lord Darne is more capable at jousting than everyone thought"
Sosan "You did great, but I hope you are not injured after that hit you took"
Weyland shades towards the table where Darne and Matthias are present but does not sit down. The news of the cancellation of the wedding may have blowback and Weyland wants to stay near Darne just in case.
Smiling warmly at Lady Ranel, Your candor is most becoming.
He then turns the same smile to Lady Sosan, I was fortunate the Warrior favored me against Ser Erryk. Matthias responds while delicately disengaging himself from her. He reaches up and rubs his chest where the force of the blow from Ser Erryk's lance struck. My armor blunted much of the blow. Tomorrow may tell another tale.
Seeing Weyland make his way near their table, Lady Ranel, Lady Sosan, Lord Darne, if you will excuse a moment. Matthias stands and walks up to Weyland. Speaking softly to Weyland, Something amiss? You seem to be quite alert for the festivities.
Weyland shrugs, "Well I have been shot with a bow, Ophelia has been kidnapped and Darne has taken a position on matters which may well lead to an angry response from a violent man. In addition to my reputation taking a beating these past few days on top of all of that, I am not feeling all that festive".
Understandable. Lady Ophelia's circumstances shall be remedied soon. I support Darne, for if I would have discovered what he had, steel would have been drawn and tested. Two situations which we cannot control, only work to divert and redirect. As for your reputation, rise above it. Everyone stumbles, it is how one rises that shows their measure. You have nothing to be ashamed of, particularly with your skill with a blade. SO be at ease. Let me be the one to make an ass of himself. In the meantime, have some summerwine. Matthias smiles in a self depracating manner, before rejoining Darne, Sosan, and Ranel.
Weyland smiles at Matthias and clasps him on the back, "To be sure I shall rise above it though the sting of a recent failure should not be forgotten. Instead it should be slowly stoked like a piece of iron in a forge until what it produces becomes the better for it. Go enjoy your wine with the Ladies. I shall simply be here watching to ensure nothing bad happens".
Marcus spends his time after singing sitting and drinking slowly as he thinks about the possibilities in the next days. Marcus still had to worry about finding the participants for the sevent day so he might as well see if he could recruit Lord Jon Roxton.
Making up his mind and looking around to see if he could find him here or would he need to search from somewhere else.
Darne smiles at the conversation at present it seems it goes well for a now, though Lady Ranel hasn't broached the topic she was so keen on earlier.
He takes a sip of the summerwine and smiles "I assure you that the honor of the best singer in our house is certainly not me, I feel I have been too lax in my studies but I think I didn't make a fool of myself...well perhaps a fool of myself in a bad way this time. Indeed, our House fared well today. I only hope that this continues and perhaps Matthias or Marcus takes the win in the end."
He half listened to the singing but paid attention to House Blackwood's table and the Frey's, he half feared a bit of repercussion from taking one of the Frey's out in the first round.
"Well, that remains to be seen, our little... brother seems rather good at the joust" says Sosan
"So what do you like to do Darne, other than of course being a... am... young and daring?" says Ranel obviously other words were in her mind, but refrains from them.
Darne raised a brow at Ranel when she stumbles on her words but dismisses it as it probably was in his favor that she used the words she did. He thought for a bit before answering.
"Hmm...well, I do enjoy a good ride. Spending time in the stables was original a chore given to me but I grew rather fond of the horses. I enjoy a good book as well, though the Maester of the House tends to give me some rather borish reads." he said before looking around the table.
"I'm sure you lovely ladies have far more interesting hobbies, yes?" he asked curiously.
Before they chance to answer a very loud "F!&! THAT!" both ladies drive their hands to their mouths in surprise at the words of Ser Benjen Frey, while not it is evident something has gone terribly wrong among the Tully's, Blackwood's and Frey's. Lord Forrester Frey places his hand on Ser Benjen shoulder and he removes it forcefully pointing his finger at lord Blackwood, the crowd growing quieter but not enough to be heard yet, as lord Blackwood smiles, and lord Domeric pops out of no were into the crowd, finger's pointed at Darne and Ser Weyland, and Ser Benjen storms out of the Great Hall furious indeed. Lord Domeric has a murderous glee, he must truly be terrifying as the prospects of combat invigorate him or at least watching it in this case brings him a good measure of pleasure.
Darne looks positively alarmed for a brief moment but he regains his composure quickly. He takes a long draw from his cup of wine before looking over at Ser Weyland and then towards his father.
"Ladies, forgive me. I believe I must excuse myself for a moment." he said before standing up and calmly disappearing into the crowd to find his father.
Other than raising an eyebrow, Matthias doesn't provide much of a reaction at the outburst or Darne excusing himself to go to Lord Domeric.
Hopefully his talent carries him far in the joust. Matthias states as though Frey had not caused a scene.
Continuing, That said, Lady Ranel, Lord Darne implied that you seemed deeply intent in regard to myself. I have nothing to hide and would be happy to answer whatever questions you and Lady Sosan may have. Ask away. Matthias' states with complete honesty.
Weyland follows Darne into the crowd.
"You best stay with us Darne, and think nothing of it do you are quite charming with that face of yours just now." Ranel winks at you "Of course unless your interest is with lady Sofia" giving you her most dazzling look she can muster.
As Darne was getting ready to leave, Ranel's words drew him back. He felt a bit bad as he had almost left and made himself feel quite the fool. He was after all the person who proposed this dinner.
He cleared his throat and bowed his head slightly at her in appreciation before retaking his seat. "Forgive me, I almost forgot my manners. Frey's little outburst was in such poor taste with such delicate flowers all about I wanted to have a word with him...but it can wait, perhaps his own family will do something about the shame he was bringing them." he said half lying through his teeth.
He smiled and took a sip of wine "Yes, Matthias does bring up the subject of this little dinner yes? You had questions about Matthias? Or did you also have questions the family and myself as well?" he asked trying to ferret out a bit of her intention.
"I just want to know what kind of man Matthias is, if we are to mary we don't want to end up with unpleasant surprises"looking over were the Frey's are.
Sosan look of horror "He wouldn't be, not Matthias" an accusatory finger to her sisters face "He is mine and no doubt you cast will make me change my mind, just because your scheming got the best of you for once!"
Ranel's eyes turn big and she turns a beet red for a few moments covering her face with her hand fan as if someone just raised the temperature and the room was a tad warmer, but it was just her Sosan, you have no manners as usual and that is why I'm left to do all the thinking and looking for the best interest of our House" looking at Darne almost kicking him under the table, hoping he had some decency and help her save face.
Matthias holds up his hands in a placating gesture, looking at Lady Sosan, While I genuinely appreciate your regards for me, you hardly know who I am, merely the surface of what you have seen here at the tournament. There is more to anyone than what is on the surface. We have enjoyed a few conversations, a start to be sure, in which I conducted myself as a proper gentleman should. You have witnessed me at two events in this tournament, which is a play at battle, and not the real thing. All of my conduct and words could merely be the cover for a cruel tyrant.
He pauses a moment, before continuing, I know who I am. The members of House Naelareon know who I am and what I have endured in my life. Your sister, Lady Ranel, has shown a great deal of wisdom in wishing to find out who I am. Casting doubt, I am confident was the furthest thing from her mind. I am sure, deep down, you know this too. Matthias' ernest tone plainly evident in his words.
Lady Ranel hides her smile and nods to Matthias, and she knows better than to bask in her glorious come back thanks to Matthias and merely settles to give Sosan an 'I told you so' look.
Sosan is now flustered by Matthias words "So then you are telling me you are a brute and not a knight, or just one of many men that say they are knights but only serve themselves" she is angry, for once she thought herself victorious over her sister, now in an instant she finds herself defeated by the man she wanted. Now anger has replaced the feelings "I wish you both well then sister he is all yours" she stands and leaves the table ignoring any words her way, leaving the Great Hall as a gentle whimper and probably tears flowing from her eyes.
Ranel looks at her sister go and shakes her head "She is young and you were rather harsh Ser Matthias" looking at him now "Perhaps I am after all the better match if that is how honest and blunt with no grace, at least I have everything else you lack" nodding to him.
[ooc]Let me know when ready to move on ;)
If being honest was easy and without consequence, then everyone would be honest and the need for duplicity and deceit would be unnecessary. I am sorry she was hurt by my words, it was not the purpose, as I have no doubt you are aware. Be that as it may, she is an intelligent, insightful young woman, and will see the wisdom of what have I said.
His gaze turning intense, I am who I am, no more, no less. I strive to improve, for excellence in all things, but I will not compromise truth, honesty, loyalty, or conviction to spare a misunderstanding or the potential for hurt feelings. So, yes I agree I do lack grace and feel no shame for it, nor will I apologize for it.
Finishing his wine, Matthias stands, I must retire. Lord Darne, Lady Ranel is your equal in all ways that matter. You could do no better than having her at your side. You would be formidable.
Matthias bows to Darne and Lady Ranel, before returning to the Naelareon Pavillion for the evening.
Iron Mettle
This event is were the strongest man carries a big weighted backpack around until he reaches set milestones were he must perform feats of strength from carrying boulders to pulling carriages like stallions, only the toughest and the strongest man will win.
Many smallfolk, men-at-arms and hedge knights are participating as the lords chit chat, place bets and some more interested Masters of Arm are looking for good soldiers and some lords for sworn swords.
Notable people present in the event:
Ser Javer Blanetree
lordling Edan Ward
lordling Orland Hawick
Ser Braedon Lychaster
Lord Eluard Perryn
Lord Vernan Roote
Ser Alayne Vance
Ser Heward Storm - Famous Mercenary Captain
Ser Abel Redwyne - Former captain of the guard in the Crossing.
Notable participants
Hobb the Woodsman
Ser Jon Roxton
lordling Morgath Lugus
Ser Ereth Ahern - "The Ruined King"
Having a good relationship with Jon Roxton, Weyland will root for him and place some coin wagering on him to win.
"Ser Jon, you win and my proceeds will fill tankards later this afternoon for you and your men!"
Weyland will also interact with Ser Heward Storm (as he may well need the services of this Captain one day) and Ser Abdel Redwyne to ascertain what his is doing now that he has relinquished his Captaincy.
Jon Roxton flexes his muscles and laughs, but truth be told he probably won't be first as some of his soldiers seem to be sturdier than him, to bad they are not as skilled with the sword though.
Marcus joins to Weyland praise. "Ser Jon, I would like to anyway speak to you later today about chances of friendship. I would be pleased to have some more contact with you and your House in the future and maybe even trading"
Jon Roxton acknowledges with a tired grunt and a more than exhausted limb as carrying the heavy sack to the fourth station is beginning to be impossible to finish, but that won't stop him from trying.
The Ruined King on the other hand moves fluid and carries his burdened backpack with some strange but regal elegance, while at the same time putting up great effort, which makes Jon Roxton push himself even harder with Hobb gaining on him as the Smallfolk hunter and lumberjack has apparent strength to spare.
In the morning Matthias sends a page out to purchase a bouquet of flowers, suitable for an apology as well as whatever passes for sweets. Instructing the page to return to him. While awaiting the page to return, Matthias writes a letter in his best script,
My Lady Sosan,
I beg your forgiveness for the hurt my words caused you. My honor dictates honesty with my words and deeds, regardless of what it may cost. Regrettably, my words last evening cost me the high regard in which I was held in your eyes and heart. I did not fully understand the depth of what that was until the heated moment that occurred. Whether I am graced with your forgiveness or forever looked upon by you with scorn, know I will always think of you as I've have begun to know you: a kind and intelligent Lady possessed of warmth and grace.
With sincerest regards, Matthias.
Matthias provides him with the letter, instructing him to deliver it Lady Sosan Keath and await for any reply.
Matthias will then spend the rest of the morning working with Gileon in preparation for the Squire's Joust and the Knights joust.
As Ser Jon comes off of the field Weyland will clap him on the back.
"A supreme effort Ser Jon. Just for that a round for you and all your men present!"
Weyland turns to Ser Heward and Ser Abdel, "Won't you join us? A strong cold brew is the best way to recover from a day of heated competition. After all, this may be my last drink, my opponent is no pushover this day. Better for me to die attempting to regain my reputation than live as a man ridiculed. Moreover, on my honor as a Knight, I could not live in this or any Realm where a man that calls himself a Knight strikes defenseless women".
To Ser Heward, "Tell me Captain? Are you and your men still available? I believe my Lord Naelaron could use you and your lads in the very near future. There are naer do wells about who claim moral high ground then kidnap women when no swords are present to keep them in line".
To Ser Abdel, "Tell me Ser Abdel as I have been out of the loop, why have you relinquished you position at the Crossings? A better opportunity come along or did you wish to have greater freedom to travel? Duty is heavier than a mountain they say and death light as a feather eh?"
Ser, my men are always able for the right amount" as he keeps looking at a couple of men in the competition and sends one of his owns to talk to them "What kind of business are we talking about Ser Weyland I believe?"
"I did not now my leaving the service of lord Forrester was such big news, but a rather a minor thing in a difference of opinions" measuring Ser Weyland with a quick view "No Ser Weyland, I would have been happy to continue my service, now I'm in search of a lord, and hopefully not have to deal with an a#@+!%$ like Ser Benjen, but he is the lords brother and that has cost me more than I care to admit"
At the end the competition was won by the Ruined King, followed by Hobb, taking the golden dragon and his prize with him.
Ser Heward, "The business of all fighting companies of course, war. If you are available pray pause here a moment, I see the House Castellon who may have input on any such arrangement".
Weylan's sees and grabs Ser Marcus, "Ser Heward and his men are available have we the need for their assistance Ser Marcus?"
Ser Abel, "Certainly House Naelaron could use a man of your considerable talents. I havinge found Ser Naelaron as forthright as any Lord I have ever encountered. Is that an arrangement that may suit you? I can easily arrange a today if you wish. He will no doubt be on hand when Ser Benjen and I clash", Weyland states matter of factly.
"I will speak to him Ser Weyland, but he is a scary man if what they say is true, but I'll find out for my self when I see him and if I get the chance"
"Ah, Ser Weyland. A more people considering to work with House Naelareon? We certainly do wish to recruit more people as well provide plenty of opportunities alongside with benefits for a service and good attitude" Marcus nods as he greets both Weyland and ser Heward
Noticing also possibility of Ser Abel joining into House Naelaeron, Marcus could not resist but push also to his direction "Ah, Lord Naelareon is fair and good a lord. However, as his Castellan I am responsible for many things and well-being of other people. I can surely assure you a good position in our House and some interesting possibilities. I could even arrange a meeting with Lord Naelareon if you wish to speak with him this evening?" inquiring and hoping to get someone like Ser Abel in their House
Before the duel as Weyland and Marcus are leaving the Strength competition Weyland turns to Marcus, "I would ask that if this Frey should be the death of me, you be the one to look after my Boys. Will you do that for me Ser Marcus?"
Slowing his steps and stopping to consider the words of Weyland Marcus sighs and nods "I will take care of your sons as if they were my own Weyland. I give you my word on that" agreeing and accepting the proposal of Weyland
"I will take your offer Ser Marcus, but I was a former Captain of the Crossing Guard, I do hope an equitable position of sorts would be nice to have"
Archery Contest
While lacking the grandeur of the joust or melee, the archery contest is still a well respected event. Mercifully, the wind has died down compared to previous days, and conditions are dry.
Archery targets, with the traditional circles within circles, are laid out for the competitors to fire at, and moved back each round as the field is winnowed down.
Challenges
Marksmanship (Bows) (9) – three DoS needed to progress.
Marksmanship (Bows) (12) - four DoS needed to progress
Marksmanship (Bows) (15) - five DoS needed to progress
Marksmanship (Bows) (18) - Highest DoS wins.
Consequences
- Five shots per round.
- You're expected to shoot fairly rapidly, so only your first roll benefits from the "aim" action.
- 1 point per DoS.
- Three arrows hit at TN 12 = +1 glory
- Final round: total DoS determines victor.
- Winner = +1 glory, 20 gold dragons and a superior bow
The time had come up for the archery contest. Making his way to the range, he lined up with his other competitors. Carefully observing what little wind there is, Garran lined up his first shot on the target, then, in rapid succession, fired his first five shots.
Billy Burley
TN 9 - 12 DoS
keep 4 15 - 2 DoS
keep 4 22 - 3 DoS
keep 4 15 - 2 DoS
keep 4 21 - 3 DoS
keep 4 15 - 2 DoS
TN 12 - 9 DoS
keep 4 19 - 2 DoS
keep 4 21 - 2 DoS
keep 4 17 - 2 DoS
keep 4 20 - 2 DoS
keep 4 12 - 1 DoS
TN 15 - 5 DoS
keep 4 17 - 1 DoS
keep 4 20 - 2 DoS
keep 4 11
keep 4 19 - 1 DoS
keep 4 17 - 1 DoS
TN 18 - 4 DoS total
keep 4 20 - 1 DoS
keep 4 23 - 2 DoS
keep 4 15
keep 4 14
keep 4 21 - 1 DoS
Ereth Ahern "Ruined King"
A smallfolk approaches him as if he were a king and gives him a bow and arrow to which he puts hishand in his shoulder and gives him his thanks, while waving at the audience.
TN 9 - 7 DoS
keep 4 12 - 1 DoS
keep 4 9 - 1 DoS
keep 4 14 - 2 DoS
keep 4 12 - 1 DoS
keep 4 15 - 2 DoS
TN 12 - 6 DoS
keep 4 12 - 1 DoS
keep 4 16 - 1 DoS
keep 4 12 - 1 DoS
keep 4 17 - 2 DoS
keep 4 15 - 1 DoS
After watching the performance of Billy and Garran, the Ruined King knows better than to even try, funny enough he seems to be looking for a participant that he cannot find.