Garran shall eat of bread and salt, and remain with the Naelareon party for the evening.
Lucas raises his head slightly as if speaking to someone beneath his station "Yes I will, you should try it Ser weyland, so at least you can acquit yourself well at something other than the melee, which this time should be hard, I've heard four of the Kingsguard will participate in the joust and melee" a smile in his face a sincere one, but not out of appreciation you know better, it's rejoicing that you might not get very far in this melee, probably one of those historical one of a kind.
"Ah Brother, as always your advice is sage indeed. I strive in all ways to be like you. I shall do just that so I may enter the joust in the next tourney. Tell me, do you think your lance is up to the challenge of the Kingsguard? My melee skills have improved greatly since I last slew raiders to protect our shores. You remember that no, when I earned my Knighthood? I forget if it was five or eight whose lives ended at the edge of my blade, time tends to make ones memories and stories about them more grandiose than reality. We shall see if my skills measure up against the legendary skills of the Kingsguard", Weyland smiles back it is not entirely clear whether he is jesting with his brother or reminding him that he too will need to face these fearsome foes in the tourney.
Weyland turns to his Cousin, "Ser Adrian, can we expect to see you enter the competitions as well?"
"I might go farther than most, but if Derrock Swann participates, I don't think the Kingsguard will win either" he shrugs his shoulders, ignoring the taunt as if nothing was said. "Well, we shall see more of each other, just hopefully not another House I must make amends for past problems with your 'sword skills'" he muses to himself.
"Stop this right now, you are brothers and this is not the place or time, lest your father hears your conversation" mother puts her foot down attempting to end any dispute in a public space.
Ser Adrian nods "I plan to make it far in the joust and the melee, I'm still young to boast that I will win either event, but at least I know I can acquit myself well and make some coin" he smiles
Weyland sighs at his Mother's rebuke, "Mother, you know we love each other even if our relationship is not as close as it once was. Boys will be boys it seems even when we have become men. I apologize for upsetting you. Speaking of making amends, tell me Brother is Lord Lleston Estren in attendance? I would visit my "other Father" as well. It has been far too long since I have seen him".
"Cousin, we come from a long line of skilled warriors. Jesting aside, I take great pride in Lucas' riding skills. I expect my son to live up to that legacy in the saddle and it is he who I always refer to when discussing riding. I am sure you will acquit yourself well". Weyland's tone is sincere when speaking of his Brother's riding prowess.
"I would not recommend you to do so, but suit yourself he is over there" he points to the crowd and you are able to identify the Estren and lord Lleston.
Son don't even go, send them a letter, lord Lleston still bears a grudge no matter how Lucas has tried to appease them for the way you wronged them, true or not. Not to mention both Ser Joseph and Ser Leonard can't stand you and I wouldn't be surprise if this tourney becomes rather complicated for you" truly worried mother to proud to beg in public and to high in status to do so to a wayward son.
Weyland looks in their direction and turns back to his Brother and his Mother, "I have much to make amends for it seems. I shall follow your advice Mother and send a letter tomorrow. Though before this tourney is through I should like to do what I can to explain myself to my former father in-law". Perhaps in so doing, I can repair some of the damage done in my relationship with my Brother.
A Bold Arrival
It is late in the night by the time Ser Jon Roxton has made his long journey from the Reach to the inn, but despite the tiring ride he still throws open the door with gusto. Even as he sets his sky blue cloak to dry beside the fire, Ser Jon has called for a round of drinks for his accompanying men at arms.
“Bold” Jox Roxton is known for swiftly striking up friendships with drinking companions, but also for taking a marked dislike for those he considers poor company.
Which brave souls are still awake at this hour, to attempt to gain the approval of this dangerous knight, as famous for his swordsmanship as he is infamous for his carousing?
Darne made sure to at least bring a jug of wine for the occasion, mind you he didn't take the best stock but certainly better then what the knights were drinking.
He made his way to the pavilion taking a few deep breaths along the way, this was gonna be one hell of a talk he imagined and he hoped it went well even if it didn't fully go in his favor.
Disposition: Indifferent (DR 4)
Objective: Service
Initiative:
Intrigue Defense 9
Composure: 9
Attempt to get Cassondria to back him as heir
Yield: At least agree not to backstab one another.
He sat the wine jug down on the table in the Pavillion. "The evening suits you dear sister, the stars and moonlight do well to make your golden hair shine like that of our ancestors. When you do marry, might you take that into consideration. It would make every lady present envious of you no doubt for years to come." he started always remembering his manners and trying to keep his sister happy.
"But we both know I didn't come here for too many honeyed words and wine." he said as he poured her a cup before him. "Father wishes to see us prove ourselves amongst our peers and make sure that he knows who the true heir is by the end of this great celebration and I know you want to be named as badly as I. But have you thought about the consequences of being named heir? I know you fancy being in charge but every third and fourth born son who dreams of power will have you in his sights and be vying for the lordship, do you truly wish to see such a man taking over our house? Father is only going to hasten you towards marriage if you are named heir, but if I were named heir you could take your courtship slow. Find someone you actually care about, find someone who is on equal foot but you could wrap around your finger. Tell me that's not a better situation for you, yes?" he said as he poured his own.
In his tent, Garran tested his bowstring and sharpened his boar spear. Tomorrow would come a grand hunt, and Garran had every intention of ensuring House Naelareon would shine. He then prepared to sleep, to ensure he was well-rested for the morrow.
In the early evening, Ophelia returned to the family pavilion, and began telling Weyland's children a bed time story. Once they were fast asleep, she tested her armor and spear before heading to be herself.
Disposition: Indifferent (DR 4)
Objective: Service
Initiative:
Intrigue Defense 10
Composure: 9
Attempt Make Darne accept her as heir
Yield: Support her claim and unite against Matthias.
Benefits: Attractive, Charismatic (Charm), Blood of Valyria
22 - 3 DoS
Cassondria was drinking tea at the table listening to Darne "You honor me Darne thank you" she elegantly fakes a blush and excitement. "Like the stars and moonlight" she muse "Surprised you aren't married or have Ser Weyland's problems with those pretty words" she is rather enjoying himself with your words.
"The consequences of being heir, are hard for I must choose a husband well and that will take the Naelareon name on top of that" not a simple thing, great families would not endure such a thing "Every petty lord, second, third, cousin or someones uncle will try to wed me, it's nothing that they haven't tried so far, it will just be higher stakes and I am willing to do it" some frustration showing in her voice "You think you are better of for being a man, you have Matthias to contend which is not easy task for you, and you will be targeted by second daughters or cousins, until they know you or Matthias could be heir, but I want to be heir, so why not live an easy life like you have so far Darne" she counters Darne's offer in a more tempting way "It's an easier life for you, maybe even make your own Banner House later after you have time to marry and proof you are at least in equal footing to Matthias, which we both know he could give you quite the beating, so why don't you take it easy and enjoy as you have?" smiling and drinking finally a sip of the wine poured.
When Ser Jon arrives, Weyland has been nursing an ale for some time consideringwhat to say in his letter to his former father in law. The camaraderie of the famous Knight and his affable personality rouse Weyland from his musings.
As Ser Jon and his men at arms finish their first round Weyland approaches the bar, "Barkeep, the second round for Ser Jon and his men is on me".
Matthias joins Ser Weyland at the bar, So, Ser Weyland, how fares you this evening? No one discounting you I trust. My words hard, anger plainly evident.
Dot. Rich roleplaying, quite a good read, keep it going, =)
For those drinking in the Drunken Huntsman with Jon Roxton
Challenge:
Characters present can choose to attempt as many or as few of the rolls below as they choose and in any order, but all three rolls must be undertaken at the same time.
Endurance (Resilience) (9) – failure on this roll automatically inflicts the penalties from alcohol poisoning (p135, GoT editions of rules).
Fighting (Brawling) (9) – failure on this roll inflicts one injury
Persuasion (Taunt) (9)
Consequences:
Critical failure on any roll – relations with Jon Roxton decrease by one step.
Lowest total across all three rolls (even if only attempting one or two rolls) – relations with Jon Roxton decrease by one step. [This is determined by total from dice + modifers, not DoS. Please include this at the end of your post]
If total degress of success by all participants >10, the four top scoring participants who did not suffer a decline in relations improve their relations with Jon Roxton by one degree.
Marcus having brooding most of the time in his own thoughs was getting irritated. This whole thing with the House heir business and lately how everyone seemed to be edged caused even his nerves to be on edge.
A bit drunk Marcus gladly accepted more alcohol and his more aggressive side started to appear "No men enough for some fight eh, let me show how a real brawl is done" drinking beer and getting on mood for some fighting Marcus began to consume alcohol with his fists singing most of the times. Pausing for a moment at somepoint to just down another mug or two down to keep going and getting more visibly drunk "Dammit status and dammit ways, why cant people just simply enjoy what they have. G@%%%$mit all this business.. Only mices here" and soon his fists began to wave again
Seeing that Marcus is a foul mood as well, and not wishing to embarass his family name anymore than he already has, drinks lightly, but buys several rounds for Ser Roxton and his men, leaving before things get really out of hand.
"Funny you should mention that Matthias, it is something I know all too well. I remember being younger and everything being a competition and it was fun but then at some point the competition had an edge to it. No matter whether I was better or not it did not matter, I was never going to be taken seriously, so why the hell should I have ever been serious! Then when I do my duty to House and Lord the Gods take from me the only damn good thing to come to me besides a fight. The Gods are well, g$~#+~n cruel Matthias. Life is not fair and it seems to get more unfair all the time. But there is opportunity in chaos..."
Watching Marcus getting drunker and drunker Weyland is not sure whether he should stick around as he may well be the source of Marcus' ire or stay in case Marcus gets backed up.
As Matthias decide to leave Weyland stays and drinks and drinks with Marcus, something he does not normally do.
Listening to Marcus he certainly begins to make sense!
"Here here Marcus! A toast to men having what they want and feeling good and to hell with those who cannot appreciate life as it is far too fickle, I should know, fate has not been kind to me in many ways. I live my life and what do I get grief? I try to do the right thing and what do I get? Grief! A man missteps and it is never forgotten! Even if he has saved the lives of those around him..."
"You'll not pile on the man alone!!! I've your back man!"
1 Persuasion (Taunt):
1 Endurance (Resilience):
1 Fighting (Brawling):
2 Persuasion (Taunt):
2 Endurace (Resilience):
2 Fighting (Brawling):
3 Endurance (Resilience):
3 Fighting (Brawling):
4 Endurance (Resilience):
4 Fighting (Brawling):
5 Fighting (Brawling):
6 Fighting (Brawling):
7 Fighting (Brawling):
Darne could see that she had a point to a degree. She had indeed been solely studying for the courts would offer her some degree of success as the heir and he had to admit that Matthias in his opinion was not suited for the role. He sighed and shook his head.
"Dear sister, of course I would support you over Matthias. The boy knows his way around a sword, but a court room...he has much to grow on as far as that. Know that if father does still choose me for heir I will accept it but I will make sure that you find a suitable husband you can control." he said smiling.
"Come now, we have dealt with our unpleasantness. Let us enjoy the rest of the evening for once together. We have a bit of good wine and a nice night, no need to let politics spoil it." he said as he leaned back a bit in his seat and took a long drink from the cup.
And so for a first, true or fake Cassondria and Darne speak as brother and sister. How much is true, its yet to be seen.
Gift Giving
Before departing, each of your houses received two messages by raven, suspiciously close to one another.
Queen Alicent and Princess Rhaenyra are both delighted to offer the chance for those present to reaffirm their loyalty to the throne and present an appropriate gift, presenting Riverrun's guests with a dangerous quandary.
Participants: One member.
Challenges:
Language (12) - +1 to both of the following rolls for each DoS. Choosing the right words is important in court!
Status (Breeding or Reputation) or Awareness (Empathy) (12)
Persuasion/Deception (any specialty, but there may be consequences to certain choices) (12)
Describe your gift and why it is significant
Consequences:
Pass status & peruasion/deception test = +1 glory
Three DoS on Persuasion/Deception roll = +1 to “Green” or “Black” score, depending on recipient.
Highest DoS (highest total rolls on all three challenges as tiebreaker) = +1 additional glory, +1 to “Green” or “Black” score, depending on recipient.
Further complications may arise from particular gifts.
Technically, a house can send separate participants to both gift giving ceremonies if it would be in character. Expect a whacking great influence penalty.
Two well-dressed, refined men are chattering in the crowd. One of them is an old schemer from Highgarden, the second one is his brother in law, a fat courtier from Westernlands.
They are long-time friends and they both like to make comments about those who approach either the queen or the princess with a gift in hand.
These two men are masters of gossip and tattle.
They do it because they like it.
They do it because they understand how power works here.
And such a privileged observation point is precious for them, they can understand who's good and who's bad to befriend.
Their attention is caught by the odd pair of characters, in particular a man, of dangerous beauty that seethes authority more than any of the present, all dressed in black with some red accents. A well kept long hair to his mid back, and a pair of fierce eyes which make people avoid his path; the image of a true valyrian which strongly contrasts with those of the crowd.
The herald proclaims:
"Domeric of House Naelareon, Subjugator of the Stepstones, The bane of the 7 and Lord of House Naelareon"
- "Bane, Subjugator? It just means murderer and criminal!" is the comment by the old Reachman
- "And head of House? The poor Naelareon House is weak then, and they are so miserable that the lord had to come for giving gifts!" is the reply by the fat Westernlander.
- "They could only use this one, which is more a monster than man! Lets hear what foolish words he will spell, this man is doomed to failure….Look at the idiot! All dressed in BLACK as he goes straight towards the green queen…"
- "who can be so ignorant of the choices made since the tourney of 111? Or maybe he is simply too much a barbarian if he ignores the value of the colors you bear …"
The Naelareon lord stops in front of the queen, make a slight bow with his head, and starts with his baritone voice:
"Your Majesty. I am here representing my House."
Domeric's hand moves towards the other man at his side, an equally imposing person, although younger and with an appearance which is definitely less refined than Domeric's.
"Here with me I have a gift from my battles. Everybody knows that true sons of Valyria are conquerors and warriors, so I offer you the harvest of my own axe."
Domeric's hand moves inside the black mantle and, out of it, he takes an object wrapped in yellow silk. The elegant fingers of Domeric open the wrappings revealing a simple silver diadem whose front is adorned with the odd figure of a bird of prey holding something in its claws.
- "How disgusting! This murderer is offering the queen something he took from a dead man's head!" the Reachman says
- "How does he dare?.... " the Westernlander replies.
Domeric continues to speak "My hand collected it from the cold forehead of Lord Gerold Qorgyle of Dorne, the scourge of Horn Hill, which he besieged eight years ago, and where he tortured and beheaded Ser Malcom Hunt."
The Reachman seems not to make a comment this time…but his friend is not restrained:
- "And who cares about the death of a minor lord in a Dornish raid?"
The Reachman does not asnwer, but the Westernlander seems anxious to keep on commenting:
- " Why is this idiot bothering the queen with such a poor gift? And hear how roughly he speaks to her!"
- "Shut up." the old Reachman murmurs
- "What?"
- "Shut up, I said. It looks like you do not know who Malcom Hunt was." the old Reachman murmurs
- "The minor noble of a minor house, somewhere in the South?"
- "He was Hunt by his father, but his mother was Hightower. First cousin to the queen, they grew up together in Highgarden and, some people murmur, he was also his first lover, long before Alicent was promised to the King..."
The Westernlander finally made silence.
Domeric ends his discourse "May all the enemies of the Iron Throne meet the same end. The Naelareon arms are ready for serving the Targaryen."
- "He is rough and educated and he utter words with the same accent of old valyrian speakers... He wears black next to the Green queen and give her such a gift.
I'm even not so sure what he will really "serve" to the Targaryen... nevertheless one must admit somebody will notice him...
- 1 DoS
18 - 2 DoS
15 - 1 DoS
+1 Glory
Darne watched with curiosity as his father walked up. The words the two commentators stung slightly and made him annoyed. But what his father presented, was just...well to be honest Darne could swear this was more of a present to the Princess when she would hear about it.
He had to give the old man credit, this was devious and could be easily seen as a political move for either side. He would have to ask his father later just what he meant by it all.
He listened carefully to the words of the others around him.
Weyland observes the ceremony and is well pleased with the words the Lord chose and the message behind the words aided by the Knowledge of the two old harpies prattling on.
He turns to Lady Naelareon who he is still standing near speaking softly,
Glaring a bit at the two old farts discussing things about their House rudely but saying nothing. Keeping his eyes open - although hurting a bit after yesterday night drinking - Marcus is not sure how to react although being neutral is the best thing for now. But considering the situation we could try to show more favorism for Queen and show our support that way. Who knows what will happen later but maybe this is for the best
Weyland
Matthias watches, marking the two man with their banter. As his Uncle presents the queen with his gift, he nods in understanding. A fitting tribute, more, a statement to set everyone back on their toes.
Garran finds the two nobles gossiping to be quite rude, particularly in regards to his Lord. However, as a retainer of Lord Domeric, he knows it is not his place to confront them, and instead pays attention to his Lord. He thinks the gift a suitable one to the Queen, though she likely had other diadems. Regardless of what two gossiping crows though, Naelareon was a proud house, and he was honored to serve it.
The Royal Hunt
The royal hunt departs after midday, intent on returning fish, fowl and beast to Riverrun's larders ahead of the evening's feasts.
Participants
Characters can work together or individually.
Challenges:
Survival (Hunt) at a predeclared TN. You may make one roll for each afternoon slot dedicated to hunting.
TN 9 – 1 point: Fish, rabbit or game birds.
TN 12 – 2 points: Deer.
TN 15 – 3 points: Boar or stag.
TN 21 – 5 points: The White stag [only the highest score succeeding at TN 21 can capture the White Stag – others are left empty handed]
Consequences:
Every six points earned = 1 Glory
The highest score character/party = 1 glory, 20 gold dragons and a future seat at the royal table.
Critical failure = injury as you twist an ankle or are hurt by your quarry as it fights back.
Darne waited till his father was clear of the crowds and and seemed to finally get a moment to himself before approaching. "I can see now how our house has managed to stay alive all these years. That was a really careful and resounding play you pulled back there dear father. Tell me, how long have you been holding on to that token and waiting to use it in such a case?" he asked curious of just how many steps ahead his father had been in this political chess game.
"I loath to part with it to be honest, the man that wore it was harder to kill than I tough" he smiles "You will learn that everything is something I can use for such cases, its knowing what you have and how to use it that counts, many have seen that trinket even you, but no one paid attention to it why?
Disposition: Amiable (DR 3)
Objective: Friendship
Initiative:
Intrigue Defense 9
Composure: 9
Attempt: Get father to see he is a good son and a good possible choose for heir.
Yield: Forgive Darne for any slights he may have caused.
Benefits:Blood of Valyria, Magnetic
"Ah, that is quite the bit of wisdom you have offered me. I will keep that in mind and try to see the significance in any trophies I may come upon in my time. I can only imagine what other interesting tricks you may have up your sleeve father." he said quietly. It was nice to see his father in a good mood for a change. Something he only saw him have with his sister and mother mostly.
Matthias is up early on the day of the hunt. Hoping to help capitolize on the statement of hia uncle, he seeks out Garran catching him as he is prepping for the hunt.
Huntsman Fain, I understand you have been working with Lady Ophelia and young Darne for the Royal Hunt. I would seek to increase House Naelareon's good fortune. With your sufferance, I will aid you as I can for the hunt.
"Wisdom comes with experience Darne, but your best friends you will make them in the battlefield not the pen. With the pen you make the best deals for your House and allies, understand the difference"
Disposition: Amiable (DR 3)
Objective: None
Initiative:
Intrigue Defense 12
Composure: 12
Benefits: Attractive, Authoritative, Blood of Valirya
Flaw: Haughty, Threatening
Yield: Leave me
Disposition: Amiable (DR 3)
Objective: None
Initiative: 4d6 ⇒ (4, 6, 3, 2) = 15
Intrigue Defense 12
Composure: 12
Benefits: Attractive, Authoritative, Blood of Valirya
Flaw: Haughty, Threatening
Yield: Leave me
keep 3 - 21 = 3 DoS
Persuasion 4x3 = 12 Damage
"Listen Darne, I see you are proficient with a spear, but that's a weapon I expect to see in levies, mercenaries and some soldiers from poor Houses, now if you told me you were a jouster, I would be glad you are good with lances, but you are as good a one of our garrison men, you must improve and learn to use a sword or an axe like me. So go now and prove to me you are a worthy heir of my House"