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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Oct 8, 2018 9:37:24 GMT
[Leave Gregar at the caravan] I think Maya can handle the scouting, and if the caravan gets attacked they'll need fighters to protect it. Also, this should leave more room for Sophey to shine [Insist that Dante goes first] I just feel like Edrick as a knight is honor bound to watch Dante's back here instead of the opposite. I'd hate for Edrick to get caught here, but I also don't want to make him a selfish prick. Here I should say that technically, Dante is a knight as well. It's just that with him, he has not been knighted for any particular skill or feats in combat, but rather for other reasons related to his Karstark heritage. He at least has the mindset of a knight though, so technically he feels similarly honour-bound to watch Edrick's back. Perhaps the only one who would actually have any reason there to go first is Darreth and he definitely would never leave Dante behind.
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Oct 8, 2018 9:46:41 GMT
[Leave Gregar at the caravan] It seems the safest choice for everyone [Insist that Dante goes first] Honour before reason It is time for the Random Thoughts to make a stealthy return! RT: 1) Ah ah,this is the first Maya part after ages and her first part in Book 2 and it obviously starts with Irving complains 2) And Taenora caravan comeback in this book as supporter cast of the Maya storyline;since they have the same destination I'm curious to read what you plan for them 3)Meanwhile Edrick is finally going to escape from the Codd prison and I REALLY hope that they will succeed for my enjoyement of his storyline Aha, Random Thoughts, welcome back as well! Always a pleasure Have you expected anything else? Irving and complaining, one cannot exist without the other. And this has definitely been a regular occurence while Maya has been absent, which is why she's just so annoyed by now. Quite something, that I can confirm. I know they have often been sidelined in Book 1 as a result of the choices, but I can absolutely say that I have learned from that and have made their involvement in Book 2 notably less dependent on choices. For now, they will play a heavy role in Maya's storyline. Not much of a Faronhall fan here, eh? Well, I can promise, I got something in store for him which I believe should be exciting. We'll see how it goes, his storyline in this chapter is one I am actually looking forward for, I just hope you and the others will enjoy it as well
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Post by TheAPlegends on Oct 8, 2018 18:08:31 GMT
[Take Gregar with you]
[Go first]
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Oct 8, 2018 21:03:38 GMT
So, usually I would have closed the voting by now. However, I should let you know, I am currently on a short trip and I won't have access to a computer until Wednesday, at which point I'll hopefully be able to share the part with you. Voting will be open until then, I'll keep you updated
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Oct 10, 2018 19:26:29 GMT
The Voting is closed!Maya is going to take Gregar with herEdrick is going to insist that Dante goes firstThis voting was open for longer and I apologize for the delay but I am finally back with access to a proper computer. I hope you all enjoyed Maya's return, I finally got some good things in store for her Ah, I am really looking forward for this chapter in general. The last one built some things up, but I think we are really getting into some interesting development with the way things will develop over the next couple of parts. The next part will be out tomorrow. I have started writing, but over the last few days, I have been busy and without access to a proper computer, as I had to help my father with getting his caravan ready for winter. We are currently at my grandfather's place until the rest of the week, which should give me some proper time to release a part or maybe two. As for the next part, I have started to write the first part of Ysilla's chapter 3 storyline, though I would also like to add a second PoV in my desire to improve the pacing, with my current ideas for this second PoV being Lachlan or Arthur. I don't know whom it wil be yet, but as for Ysilla, we'll actually have a slight time skip in her part, as her journey through Dorne will not be actively shown. Instead, we'll next meet her several days after she and her companions stayed in Blackmont, with them having reached the dornish border region by now.
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Oct 11, 2018 22:24:15 GMT
Ysilla
In the first eighteen years of her life, Ysilla hadn’t exactly been what one would consider well-travelled. Perhaps due to Theodan’s antics, her father had always been hesitant to leave the borders of his land and without him, there was no way for her to leave either. Over the last year though, that had changed. Retrieving Theodan from the Free Cities had introduced her to a fascinating new world. For months, she had gladly explored the lavish excess that seemingly made up the entirety of Pentos and Myr. In a single year, she had likely seen more of the world than most people would in a lifetime.
There was one thing she was still not prepared for though and it was the cold. Central Dorne was cold at night, sure, but the heat of the day had always made up for it and Ysilla’s wardrobe reflected this. The thin silk was comfortable, not to mention she knew it looked good on her. But the closer they came to the dornish border, the more she had to admit that it was perhaps not all too great for a trip to the Reach, where winter was already closing in.
Damon Blackmont had told her that much. Despite his advanced age, the Lord of Blackmont had personally bid them farewell at the gates of his castle. With a cheeky grin, the old, gout-ridden man had gifted her a fur cloak, heavier than anything Ysilla had back home and the promise that she would need it. The weight had irritated her at first, but now, as the second night outside of the comfort of Blackmont came closer, she more than appreciated it.
With a sigh, she thought back to her stay at the castle. “Beware of the Reachmen, mylady”, Lord Damon had spoken. His grandson and heir, Byran, was fighting them at this very moment, leaving the old lord, his granddaughter Myrah and Byran’s bastard son as the only Blackmont’s in the castle. His warning was still ringing in her ears, adding to her discomfort, as she pulled the cloak tighter in a futile attempt to keep the cold away.
“You’ll get used to it”, Jen spoke next to her. The other woman was notably more at ease in this cold climate. Though wearing heavy clothes of her own, she had no hood to cover beneath. Her blonde braid was dangling freely down her back, a red band woven into it, a gift from Myrah Blackmont. It made for a stunning combination, even if Ysilla was honestly somewhat irritated with how easily Jen faced the cold.
“I’m more curious how you got used to it”, she mumbled in return, trying her best not to visibly shiver. The dornish flatlands had been alright, even so close to the border, but the mountains where another thing entirely. Hot at day, yes, but the nights grew colder the closer winter came. And then there was her growing concern that something would happen, something that would make this little adventure anything but pleasant.
“Here we go”, Allar spoke, flanking her from the other side. “Not our first rodeo, mine and Jen’s. We’ve crossed these mountains several times before” Ysilla raised an eyebrow, glancing from her to him. With a frown, she noted that Allar kept his cloak open even. “You never mentioned that”, she said and the man smirked. “There’s a lot I never told you. Some of the daring stuff Lady Absidee had us do”, he said. “Maybe we should sit down one day and I can tell you. You got anything planned for tonight?”
For a moment, the brazen words caused her to pause, as it was the last she had expected from Allar. Then, she caught Jen’s glare from the side and it caused her to crack up. “Hm, I don’t know”, she said. “For now, I’d say I prefer a warm place for the night. You know any nearby?” She raised a finger, before either could answer. “And by that I mean a fire and some decent comfort. I don’t want to ride another mile before we make camp”
“What is it, little sister?”, Theodan said, as he moved his horse closer from behind. Ysilla rolled her eyes. Of course he had to get involved as well. Under any other circumstance, she would have shamelessly enjoyed the attention both siblings gave her. But with her own brother around, things could quickly get awkward. “I never thought the one opponent the fierce Ysilla could not beat would be a measly cold”
Ysilla narrowed her eyes. “Oh yeah?”, she hissed, the cold making her more crabby than she wanted to be. “How about that, remember when we returned from Essos? You fell into the water. Never saw a man shivering like that” To her surprise, Theodan did not react with annoyance. Instead, his face sported the widest of grins. “Oh, you want to play the embarrassing game?”, he asked. “Keep in mind, I got a few years on you. Don’t get me started, because I’ll win”
Jen laughed brightly and Ysilla briefly glanced at her. “Oh, I want to hear more stories”, she proclaimed. “We should find a place to rest” Allar’s smile narrowed. “I’d prefer to keep riding for a bit longer”, he admitted, though a sharp look from Ysilla and a silent plea from his sister caused him to reconsider. “Though... maybe we can figure something out”
And that they did just well. With a routine that impressed Ysilla, the two siblings took the lead, guiding them through the winding pass that connected the lands of House Blackmont with those of House Mullendore on the other side of the Red Mountains. Allar silently pointed down a short underbrush and Jenelyne nodded, leading them through it and onto a barely visible and narrow path up the mountains, probably one of several the local shepherds used for their goats.
After a few minutes, they arrived at a small opening in the cavernous path they travelled, large enough for them to set camp for the night. The mountain was leaning slightly above it, somewhat sheltering them from the cold, as well as the bad weather Ysilla almost expected. “Does this look like a worthy place to rest, mylady?”, Allar asked and Ysilla gave him a playful smile. “Do I look like a mylady to you, Al?”, she asked in return and he exchanged a brief glance with his sister. Ysilla was not able to see Jenelyne’s expression, but she could somewhat guess it, judging by his slight frown. “I feel like this is one of the questions where I can’t pick a right answer, isn’t it?”, he slowly said.
Ysilla chuckled sweetly, though it was Theodan who replied in his stead. “As someone who grew up with two sisters, the answer is no”, he advised him and Allar gave both Allyrions a thin smile. “In that case, I shall stay silent”, he said wisely and this time, Ysilla caught Jen’s playful glare. “Good”, the other woman said. “Makes you way less insufferable”
Descending from his horse, Allar shrugged. “Well, as long as you build up the tents while I’m away”, he spoke and instantly, Ysilla noticed a change in Jenelyne’s behaviour. “You are leaving?”, she asked, her voice shivering slightly as her eyes widened. Allar raised an eyebrow, before he shrugged. “Well, someone has to take care of dinner for tonight, eh?”, he replied. “Don’t worry, I’ll be right back. Just gotta find us a rabbit for the night” He gave Theodan a brief glance. “Care to come with me, Ser?”, he asked.
Theodan hesitated for a moment, looking at Jenelyne, which caused Ysilla to give him a sharp glance. He at least had the decency to give her an almost sorry look, before he shook his head. “I, uh... think I’ll stay here”, he replied. “Someone has to take care of the tents after all and I hardly want to bother Ysilla with that”
Allar suppressed a chuckle at his comment. “After what happened last time, I agree”, he replied and Ysilla sighed. “Hey, that could have happened to anyone”, she protested weakly, as she descended from her horse, but Jen, who followed after her, touched her by the shoulder. “Yeah, but it happened to you”, she replied, as she flashed her a grin. “Come on, maybe you’re good for making a fire. I’ll teach you”
“You definitely don’t have to teach...”, Ysilla began, before she pulled herself together. “I mean, sure! Show me” She had said this perhaps a bit too hastily and Jen raised an eyebrow. “Pretty sure she means an actual fire, little sister”, Theodan said, as he removed his pack from the saddle. “Seven know, you can use the practice”
Ysilla poked her tongue out at him, before she followed Jen to the centre of their little makeshift camp. The other woman had already knelt down, before she looked up. “First of all, you gotta find me some dry wood and stones”, she said, her tone showing a certain authority Ysilla hadn’t noticed before. Meanwhile, Allar turned to the path they had just left. “Don’t mind me, just making sure we don’t starve”, he said. “If you’re up for it, I’ll share a few stories when I’m back”
It didn’t take long until Ysilla had gathered what she needed. Under Jenelyne’s careful guidance, she actually managed to start a fire, while Theodan built up the tents in the distance. She allowed herself a certain glee as she realized that she had finished her task faster than he did his. Allar however hadn’t returned yet and she did feel her stomach rumbling at the thought of boiled rabbit. Jen’s smile had gained a slight bit of nervousness by now.
“So...”, Ysilla said, warming herself at the fire. She sighed, as the warmth slowly made its way through her body, getting rid of the cold that had plagued her for most of the day. Jen sat close by, looking at her. “So”, she replied. “What are we going to do until Allar returns?” She gulped. “He has been gone for quite some time, hasn’t he?”
Ysilla shook her head. “One time, me and Theo went hunting in the plains beyond Godsgrace”, she spoke. “There’s not much game there, so it took each of us an hour straight to find something” She winked at her brother, who was just building up another tent, too busy to notice her teasing. “Of course I finished first”
“You were not”, Theodan mumbled. “Don’t know what you’re talking about, but I guarantee, you were not” Ysilla and Jen exchanged a grin and the other woman finally nodded. “Yeah, you are probably right”, she admitted. “But thank you. When it comes to Al, I’m just... I don’t know, I’m worried. So, I appreciate it”
“Guess it’s not too different with him”, Ysilla replied, as she subtly moved closer. Jen made no attempts to gain more distance between them. “Heaven knows, Theodan can be an idiot, but I know he cares” She had spoken these words in a low tone, so that he was unable to hear their talk. Noticing the silence, her brother glanced over his shoulder, raising an eyebrow and she gave him a wink in return.
“That much is clear to see”, Jen agreed. “With Allar, it’s all a bit harder to notice, but beneath that gruff surface lies the most caring person I know” Unlike Ysilla, she had not lowered her tone and Theodan rose from the third tent he had built up. “Are you talking about me?”, he asked and Jen’s smile made Ysilla’s blood race. “Only good things, Ser”, she promised.
Theodan did not seem satisfied with her assurance, though mumbling something beneath his breath, he turned to the final tent, kneeling down next to it in order to build it up. “I’d say we got that in common”, Jen spoke and Ysilla nodded. “We have a lot of things in common”, she replied, instantly frowning at her clumsy choice of words. For as confident as she felt, even she could not help but stumble over her words in the presence of a few select people. And Jen, she was definitely something. The last light of the day doused her into a faint, red glow, putting an almost auburn streak to her dark blonde hair and her eyes gleamed with a carefree sort of happiness that Ysilla liked to see in herself. But there was something else, something she had lost the day Theodan had been forced out of Godsgrace. It was innocence, a certain streak beneath all the worldly charm of an experienced sellsword. That she had maintained it for so long was perhaps the one feature Ysilla found the most attractive in her.
Thankfully, Jenelyne decided not to tease her about it. “Yeah, we have”, she agreed. “Even if you grew up in a castle” Her smile widened and Ysilla, who noticed she had held her breath, burst into a chuckle. “I told you I was raised in a barn”, she replied, which caused Theodan to nod. “Explains the smell and the manners”, he spoke up and Ysilla narrowed her eyes.
Before she was able to say anything, Jen did so in her stead, to her utmost surprise. “Oh, shut up”, she yelled. “I know you were raised in the same castle, knight boy” Ysilla smirked. “Same barn, I presume”, she added and Jen giggled. “For the record, I’m the one with the manners”
“For the record, I don’t care”, Jen said, as she straightened her back. “If I wanted manners, I’d travel with your sister” She shrugged. “Not that I had much of a say in this. Allar accepts the contract, I just go along with what he comes up with”, she admitted. “Albeit it could have been worse. Must admit, Lady Absidee rarely gives us such delightful company”
“Delightful, huh?”, Ysilla said. “That’s an Ashara word, even if she rarely uses it nowadays” Theodan nodded again. “She prefers ‘disappointment’ and ‘disinherit’”, he interjected and though he smiled, he could not hide the bitterness in his voice entirely. Jen did not notice it though, or maybe she chose to ignore it. “What can I say, Godsgrace had an effect on me. And Skyreach and Blackmont. Seven, I haven’t been to that many castles in my entire life”
“How many castles have you been to before?”, Ysilla asked and Jen pressed her lips together. “Uh... does the gatehouse of Sunspear count?”, she asked and Ysilla nodded. “Then it’s one. I mean, it has just been a gatehouse, but it’s something. At least that is what I thought. Travelling with you, it kinda showed me how much less we are, people like me” Her expression grew more serious as she had said this.
Ysilla placed a hand on Jen’s shoulder and the other woman gave her a slight smile. “I can tell you, you’re certainly not less than any of us”, she assured her. “Trust me, I’ve met a lot of highborn and I’d prefer you over any of them” Jenelyne raised an eyebrow. “Is that so?”, she asked and Ysilla used a brief paused to slide closer. “It might sound all tempting, but once you meet them, you’d be disgusted”, she explained. “No, it’s true. You are different from them. Kinder, more honest and pleasant. You’re better”
By now, Jen’s stunning smile had returned in full force and Ysilla tensed up, being so close to her. She noticed her arm still rested around the other woman’s shoulder and by now, the warmth had increased to the point of outright heat. Surely Jen had to feel the same, yet neither backed off. “Better”, she whispered. “I like that” She fluttered her eyelashes and Ysilla found it hard to concentrate on anything but how downright beautiful she looked right now. She only faintly realized that Theodan was watching them sternly.
[Kiss Jen] [Back off]
Arthur
“Move!”, Arthur yelled. “In formation!” The new recruits saluted, as they assumed position. Under the watchful gaze of Commander Stratford, they had gathered around in the courtyard of the rebuilt city guard headquarters. Arthur had seen his father doing exactly this time and again. Now it was his duty, welcoming the city guard’s newest members. Decimated during the raid, it was Stratford’s utmost priority to restore a semblance of their old glory.
Right now, Arthur had to make sure that those who were unsuited for service were not even allowed to join them. A simple task, or so he thought, but as he looked into the hopeful faces of these young men, he found it hard to make a decision. Instead, he quickly focussed onto the oldest and most grim of the recruits. He was brown-haired, with an unkempt beard, both starting to grey. A promising physique, clearly steeled from hard labour and he certainly knew how a guardsman should stand. If anything, it was the dull look in his green eyes that caused Arthur to hesitate. That was a man who seemed almost dead inside. There was no joy, no excitement, just a hint of fury, a hellish revenge that made him shiver.
“Name”, he barked and the man saluted, in the way only soldiers did. “Aylard Kawl”, he growled. Arthur nodded. “Why do you want to join the city guard, Aylard?”, he asked and the man gave him a sharp glare. “I’ve been a soldier, then an innkeeper”, he explained. “Lost everything I ever cared for, my inn, most of my family” He clenched his fists. “My daughter died because I couldn’t protect her” He had to pause after this sentence and Arthur gulped. He used the brief pause to exchange a look with Daemion Stratford, who gave him a subtle nod.
“My son is all I have left”, Aylard continued. “I have to find work for him. My inn is ruined, so I do the one other thing I’ve ever been good at” Arthur managed a thin smile, though Aylard’s cold glare caused him to stop the attempt in an instant. “The duties of a guard and those of a soldier are vastly different”, he brought up. “If you wish to use your skill in combat, perhaps Lord Vyrwel’s men would be a better place for you. I heard he is looking for capable soldiers. Castellan Mullendore would surely be glad...”
The swiftness with which Aylard moved caused Arthur to flinch. In an instant, the tall man had grabbed him by the collar of his tabard, pulling him close and glaring at him with hatred. “Not Mullendore”, he hissed. “I heard good things about your city guard, boy. I know how to use a weapon, but I also know how to follow orders. If that is what you are looking for, I’m your man. If you just want to belittle me, then tell me you’re not interested and stop wasting my time”
Arthur took a deep breath as Aylard let go of him. There was something in his voice that made it clear it was personal between him and Mullendore. For a moment, there was pure venom oozing from the former innkeeper. Sherryl’s warning resounding in his head, he had to ask himself what it was that caused Aylard’s reaction.
“It is what we are looking for”, he confirmed. “I... I think we have use for a man of your talents, Aylard” The tall man nodded, not a hint of joy in his eyes, though perhaps a bit of relief as he sighed. He remained silent and Arthur instead looked at the man to his left. A bit shorter than Aylard, which didn’t mean much compared to that one’s size, he was more on the stocky side, a bit heavy-set yet undeniably muscular. His short, black beard was unable to hide the ugly scars that went through his face, the marks of a warrior. Yet unlike Aylard, he did not seem to be a soldier.
“Name?”, Arthur asked, hesitating a bit after Aylard’s rage. “Elias”, the other man growled and Arthur mustered him from head to toe. No, that one was not a soldier, yet he clearly had some experience with weaponry and was no stranger to combat. A sellsword perhaps? Wouldn’t be the first time the city guard would accept unsavoury candidates, as long as they proved their worth.
“Why do you wish to join the city guard, Elias?”, he asked and Elias waited for a moment before replying. “I did some stuff I’m not proud of”, he admitted. “Followed a friend into trouble. The friend’s dead, but my life was spared” Now, he managed a brief, barely trustworthy smile. “I’d like to try something new. Why not protecting people for a change? Plus, I heard you pay well”
This caused Arthur to grin. “You heard wrong”, he warned him. “The pay is lousy and the duties are heavy. But we’ll provide for you. If you serve well, you won’t have to worry about a thing in your life again” Elias nodded. “I say that sounds pretty good”, he admitted. “I mean, that sounds good enough for me. I bet I did shittier things for less coin before”
Before he was able to turn to the next recruit, Daemion raised his hand. “This is enough for now”, he barked. “Each of you, pair with another recruit. Valarr, hand out the sparring swords, I want to see your worth in combat” Arthur noticed his gaze hitting Aylard, who barely reacted. “Keep in mind, you are allies. This is a sparring match, so try not to cause any lasting injuries”, he added, before he waved at the captain. “Nathamer, to my side. A word, if you may”
As Valarr Roux moved in to hand out wooden swords to the new recruits, Arthur followed Daemion’s wish, as he came closer. “What is it, Commander?”, he asked and Daemion crossed his arms behind his back. “You’re doing good work”, the commander spoke, his tone stern. “Though you seem to be preoccupied lately. Well, for the last couple of months, to be honest. I know you lost your father and I know the toll this took on you... and your sister”
Arthur briefly narrowed his eyes. “What does Aditha have to do with this?”, he asked, trying to hide brief irritation. Daemion’s expression told him he failed at that. “Your sister is rumoured to be a troublemaker, Arthur”, he revealed. “Spends her nights drinking at the inn, wasting your father’s inheritance. She has been seen with several men over the past months” Arthur clenched his fists, knowing how gladly Daemion would have been one of these men. Perhaps that was why he complained? “What are you getting at, Ser?”, he growled.
Daemion sighed. “I don’t mean to attack you, Arthur”, he promised. “But I am concerned for Aditha and her safety. That behaviour of hers, it has gotten worse. One of these days, she will meet the wrong man” He straightened his back. “Can I be frank with you, captain?” Arthur nodded. “You’re the commander, Stratford”, he said thinly, though he noticed that Daemion’s concern was genuine. “I don’t want to be the one finding your sister in the gutter with her throat cut”, he said and his calm, straightforward tone downright horrified Arthur. “And make no mistake, that is a very real danger. We have a killer on the loose still”
“A killer you stopped investigating”, Arthur growled and Daemion nodded, with the decency to look guilty. “Because we have no leads. Months of a proper investigation have only revealed that Woodbark has vanished without a trace and we’re short-staffed as it is. But I don’t want to invite him back into our city, by giving him a target as willing as Aditha”, he explained. “Arthur, when is the last time you have spoken to your sister?”
Arthur avoided the stern look in Daemion’s eyes. “This morning”, he mumbled and it was not a lie, even if Daemion realized what he meant. “And when have you last had a true conversation with her?”, he asked. This time, Arthur had to sigh. “That has been weeks ago”, he replied. “Aditha, she... I don’t think she wants to talk right now, not to me at least. Or to anyone, really. She’s been taking Father’s death badly”
“And she’s not the only one”, Daemion mumbled. “But we both know this is not true. Aditha has acted like this before. I saw it and it broke my heart, to see how this bright young woman wastes her life like that. Back when your father was still alive, it has been a cry for help. I doubt this is much different now”
Arthur frowned. “I fail to see how this is your concern”, he said, realizing what Daemion was getting at. The commander tilted his head. “I want to intervene before it becomes my concern”, he replied sharply. “You are an excellent guardsman and unlike your father, I have no problem admitting it. Yet I don’t want you to repeat Hackor’s mistakes. Talk to Aditha, before it tears both of you apart”
They were interrupted by a man approaching. Arthur recognized Elias, the new recruit. His opponent was lying on his back, holding his head with a pained frown, while the man himself carelessly dropped his sparring sword. His skill in combat was proven at least, that much Arthur had to admit. Though there was something in his smile he certainly did not like and the guardsman in him could not help but to narrow his eyes. Yet Valarr gave him the same bad feeling and he had proven his worth over and over. Perhaps it was nothing.
“Elias, isn’t it?”, Daemion asked and Elias nodded. “Aye, Commander”, he replied and his salute didn’t seem half bad. “Figured now’s as good a time as any, but I actually have something to tell you. Chance encounter I had on the road, before I came here, might be of interest to you and the lords of this city” He was about to say something else, when a loud howl of anger cut him off.
On the other end of the courtyard, Aylard Kawl had knocked his opponent down. “You’re one of them?”, he barked, before adding something else, incomprehensible in his rage. His opponent was a broad-shouldered man, yet helpless in the face of Aylard’s blind fury, barely able to defend himself as the former innkeeper brought his fists down on him. “Fuck...”, Daemion mumbled flatly. “You want to take care of that, Nathamer? Or do you want to stay with Elias here?”
[Stop Aylard and ignore Elias] [Let Daemion handle Aylard and listen to Elias]
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Post by edinosaur22 on Oct 12, 2018 1:27:44 GMT
[Back off] We don't want a wedge in the mission over a casual fling, especially now that they're approaching the lands of House Mullendore. While Cregan Mullendore doesn't worry me that much, it's his relative Yoreen Flowers who I'm concerned.
[Stop Aylard and ignore Elias] He probably wants to tell him about Leonard and Kersea, but I'm not sure. Aylard undoubtedly has issues, so we better stop him now.
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Post by GMS Freeman on Oct 12, 2018 5:19:31 GMT
[Kiss Jen] [Stop Aylard and ignore Elias]
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Oct 12, 2018 8:22:54 GMT
[Back off] We don't want a wedge in the mission over a casual fling, especially now that they're approaching the lands of House Mullendore. While Cregan Mullendore doesn't worry me that much, it's his relative Yoreen Flowers who I'm concerned. [Stop Aylard and ignore Elias] He probably wants to tell him about Leonard and Kersea, but I'm not sure. Aylard undoubtedly has issues, so we better stop him now. Your concerns are justified, Yoreen should not be messed with. That being said, the question is, what will affect them and the mission more? After all, rejection when there is an obvious mutual attraction could be just as bad and Jen could feel genuinely hurt. It is a risk either way. Well, if you choose to intervene with Aylard, then Daemion will hear whatever Elias has to reveal. Whatever Arthur chooses, Daemion will take care of the other option. And while the nature of Elias' information remains to be seen, he undoubtedly considers it to be highly important.
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Post by drdestroyer18 on Oct 12, 2018 12:21:25 GMT
[Kiss Jen] [Stop Aylard and ignore Elias] So nothing to say about this part put i just thought of a question. So far you have killed off 5 main POV's (not counting prologue POV's) and I'm wondering why you decided to kill them specifically?Now I know there was a chance to save most of them ( I think the only one where there was no chance was Lyria and I'm pretty sure you said saving Torvin would have killed Garthon) but how did you decided when you think its time to possibly kill a POV character?
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Oct 12, 2018 12:48:12 GMT
[Kiss Jen] [Stop Aylard and ignore Elias] So nothing to say about this part put i just thought of a question. So far you have killed off 5 main POV's (not counting prologue POV's) and I'm wondering why you decided to kill them specifically?Now I know there was a chance to save most of them ( I think the only one where there was no chance was Lyria and I'm pretty sure you said saving Torvin would have killed Garthon) but how did you decided when you think its time to possibly kill a POV character? Hm, that is a very interesting question. Indeed, there was no real chance to save Lyria, her death was set in stone the moment I came up with it (even if my original plans for her were a bit different). Most of the time though, I am pushing into a certain direction when it comes to PoV deaths. I want to give you a say in it, but with such monumental occurences, I want to plan ahead to a certain degree. And most of the time, it just feels right. With Marak and Lyria, I have told the story I wanted to tell for them and especially for Lyria, I was out of ideas. Torvin, Lucas and Richard meanwhile were some of the most major characters in the story. With them, the time was right, at the end of some pretty important chapters (the raid, Book 1 finale and Book 2 beginning respectively), the choices seemed to align and I knew that the consequences of their deaths would be far more interesting to write than what storyline I would still have for them should they survive. If I don't want a PoV to die, they won't die, simple as that. But if a PoV dies, it means that I am okay with it, that their storyline can reasonably end there without massively wasting potential and that the time is right dramatically. For example, Lucas dying just after returning from Raylansfair in Chapter 6 by randomly falling off his horse? Wasted potential and terribly anticlimactic. Lucas dying at the very end of the first book, at the hands of his nemesis' champion in an epic trial by combat that will have a lasting effect on dozens of characters? That sounds like a way better option for me. Similarly, I have plans for some characters in Book 2 which is why I didn't even give you the chance to potentially kill them through your choices, because I don't want them to die at this point and I want to tell the story I have in mind for them.
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Post by WildlingKing on Oct 12, 2018 15:24:05 GMT
[Kiss Jen] Ah, why not, I ship it This storyline continues to be very entertaining, I'm really enjoying the characters. Can't wait for them to reach... well, the Reach. Also, there was a mention of Byran Blackmont currently fighting against the Reachmen, yet I don't remember if it was ever mentioned before that there is an ongoing conflict between Dorne and Reach? Or is this more like a small scale skirmish thing? [Let Daemion handle Aylard and listen to Elias] My reasoning for this is that I'd like us to be in control of what Elias does with the information about Leonard, if possible. I mean, I imagine if we leave it to Daemion he might encourage Elias to report it to Vyrwel and Mullendore, which obviously wouldn't be a good thing.
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Oct 12, 2018 21:28:10 GMT
[Kiss Jen] Ah, why not, I ship it This storyline continues to be very entertaining, I'm really enjoying the characters. Can't wait for them to reach... well, the Reach. Also, there was a mention of Byran Blackmont currently fighting against the Reachmen, yet I don't remember if it was ever mentioned before that there is an ongoing conflict between Dorne and Reach? Or is this more like a small scale skirmish thing? [Let Daemion handle Aylard and listen to Elias] My reasoning for this is that I'd like us to be in control of what Elias does with the information about Leonard, if possible. I mean, I imagine if we leave it to Daemion he might encourage Elias to report it to Vyrwel and Mullendore, which obviously wouldn't be a good thing. Aha, I am glad to hear you enjoy these characters! It is really one thing that makes Ysilla's storyline a highlight for me to write, because I constantly enjoy writing them as well. I mean, it is that way with a lot of characters, but in Ysilla's storyline, I'd say there really is not a single character I haven't had an absolute blast writing. I hope that shows When it comes to the conflict between Dorne and the Reach (and the Stormlands while we're at it), it is not an outright war at this very moment. However, it has been an on-off war for a very long time now, mostly resulting out of the dornish traditions of raiding the marches and the border of the Reach and the other two kingdoms retaliating. A few years ago, there has even been a fairly large battle, ending with Yoreen Flowers and his men pillaging Yronwood, which is one of the previous mentions of this conflict. At the moment, it is just a set of skirmishes though, as neither side is willing to commit to a full-scale war. It has been mentioned ages ago that the Reach and the Stormlands are working together to keep the dornish at bay and they are doing a fine job. They won't actually try to invade Dorne, knowing how futile that would be, but with their combined efforts, the dornish success in the marches is not more than a handful of ultimately ignorable raids. Byran Blackmont is on one of these raids right now, as a matter of fact, but it's not as if he leads a whole army to invade the Reach of anything.
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Post by diversegnu on Oct 13, 2018 8:56:46 GMT
[Back off] Theodan's thirdwheeling hard enough as it is
[Let Daemion handle Aylard and listen to Elias] It's nice to see Elias trying to better himself, or at least that's what it seems like. Although he looked extra sketchy during this part, so it's probably best that Arthur hears what he has to say.
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Post by supersagig on Oct 13, 2018 15:28:37 GMT
[Kiss Jen]
[Stop Aylard and ignore Elias]
Great chapter!
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Post by TheAPlegends on Oct 14, 2018 20:13:41 GMT
[Back off]
[Stop Aylard and ignore Elias]
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Oct 14, 2018 22:23:03 GMT
[Back off] Theodan's thirdwheeling hard enough as it is [Let Daemion handle Aylard and listen to Elias] It's nice to see Elias trying to better himself, or at least that's what it seems like. Although he looked extra sketchy during this part, so it's probably best that Arthur hears what he has to say. He is, isn't he? In general, this whole journey so far definitely hasn't been like Theodan imagined it. In the past, during his misadventures with Ysilla, he has been the focal point, the protagonist, so to say and he has to get used to the feeling that things are different this time. Jen definitely having more of a thing for Ysilla than him is just another thing in a line of events that kinda show that this time, Ysilla is more the centre of their journey. It is safe to say, he is definitely not shipping it. With Elias, it is a bit of a mixed bag. On the one hand, working for Raylansfair's city guard is actually a sort of upstanding profession, especially when compared to his previous life as a highwayman. On the other hand, he definitely has been sort of sketchy here. It might just be Arthur's impression of him (and keep in mind, Kersea's first impression has not been good either), but the only way of finding out if he is up to something bad is by hearing what he has to say.
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Post by TheNotChosenOne on Oct 16, 2018 17:45:05 GMT
[Kiss Jen] Oh well,why not?
About the other choice I like each outcome and any consequences of it so I won't vote
RT:
1)It seems that Ysilla is going to reach the Dorne border,I'm curious to read what will happen there 2)It seems that you are going to add some romance here eh? I suppose that someone will like it for sure (Theodan for example) 3)Meanwhile we see that the city guards have some new recruits!Expecially an ex bandit and a ex soldier/innkeeper/happy man (that make his return inside the story with this part)
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Oct 17, 2018 0:05:16 GMT
[Kiss Jen] Oh well,why not? About the other choice I like each outcome and any consequences of it so I won't vote RT: 1)It seems that Ysilla is going to reach the Dorne border,I'm curious to read what will happen there 2)It seems that you are going to add some romance here eh? I suppose that someone will like it for sure (Theodan for example) 3)Meanwhile we see that the city guards have some new recruits!Expecially an ex bandit and a ex soldier/innkeeper/happy man (that make his return inside the story with this part) That is alright. It is a choice where I also have no clear preference, so I am fine with either outcome as well. Lots of wonderful stuff, I am certain of it. The Red Mountains are a lovely place and I am certain all these mentions of skirmishes between dornish and reach troops are nothing but exaggerations. In all seriousness though, that is a dangerous place. Luckily, Ysilla has Jen and Allar by her side and they are perfectly aware of this. Yeah, this has been coming. Ysilla and Jenelyne are just too alike for there to not be some sort of an attraction. Though it probably is no secret that Theodan and Allar both kinda hoped for a different outcome, so their reactions will be quite fun to write. Eh, considering that some of their current members are Aldo, a useless fat guy, and Valarr, who manages to be more shady than Elias, I'd say they are improving their standards. At least Aylard and Elias both know how to fight, even if they come with their own kind of problem. That was actually the issue with the old city guard, many of them were practically useless in combat, which is why Torvin's Ironborn encountered no real resistance from them in Chapter 8.
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Oct 17, 2018 0:33:12 GMT
The Voting is closed! Ysilla is going to kiss Jenelyne Arthur is going to stop Aylard Not much of a surprise in the first choice, but I must admit, I would have expected the other choice to win. After all, Elias' information could be quite crucial and dangerous in the wrong hands, whereas anyone could handle Aylard. However, I am happy with either outcome and this option will give Aylard a bit more screentime. And there is, of course, a good chance that Arthur will learn of Elias' information regardless. Just now, he cannot prevent Daemion from learning of it. Also, look at what I just did above, I am honestly loving the features here in the forums! The next part will hopefully be out tomorrow. I realize I am late, but aside from waiting to see how many votes would tickle in, I actually have some news and they are not pleasant. I have spent the last few days at my grandfather's place, who has, as I mentioned before, been suffering from incurable cancer for the last six months. His health has decreased over the last week to a point that has been honestly gruesome to just witness. While I had my laptop with me, writing much has been the last thing on my mind. I returned home yesterday and while things were looking grim, I hoped he'd live for another few weeks at least. Unfortunately, today I received the news that he passed away. Not going to lie, this really fucking hurts and I haven't fully processed it yet. However, he has passed away peacefully at home, without pain and at an advanced age, after having months of saying his goodbyes to his family, so as crushed as I am, I knew it would happen for a long time now and I had time to prepare and actually say my goodbyes to him. Still, this is hitting me more and more, the longer I think about it. That being said, while I know I could always take a break from the writing, this is decidedly what I don't want to do. It has become almost a ritual for me to write the story, something incredibly calming and if I don't do that, well, then I'd lose the best way to keep my mind busy in these dark days to come. Still the whole situation has been stressful and I have not yet started writing the next part. I shall do so as fast as possible, but I cannot promise to finish it tomorrow. There is also the matter of the funeral coming up and I don't know anything about that one yet. Hopefully, tomorrow will bring more clarity on when I will head to the funeral, but I presume I will be gone from Thursday to Sunday. Nonetheless, I'll try my best to finish the part as soon as possible. This next part will feature PoV's from Lachlan and Jenna, showing the formers arrival at Gull Tower and the latters witnessing of the aftermath of the Chapter 2 finale. I can assure you, as bad as things are right now, I have no intentions of notably slowing down. Hopefully, the part will be done soon. Until then, I hope you're having a better day!
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Post by GMS Freeman on Oct 17, 2018 5:53:02 GMT
It's very hard breaking.Man,I have a grandfather myself and I can't think my life without him. RIP Uncle
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Post by WildlingKing on Oct 17, 2018 10:15:36 GMT
My condolences for your loss. I'm quite close with the grandparents I still have, so I can certainly empathize. And take as much time as you need with the story, we'll be here.
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inkennywetrust
New Member
Sonya, 16 years old, Russia. I'll be glad to meet my old and new peers from the forums here :)
Posts: 4
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Post by inkennywetrust on Oct 17, 2018 16:01:27 GMT
Hi, Sebastian! I finally stopped being a lazy ass and registered here. Glad to see the story going.
Have my condolences. It must be a terrible loss. I need you to know that everyone here supports you no matter what happens, please, take as long as you need to recover.
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Post by chaosjester on Oct 17, 2018 17:49:37 GMT
I'm so sorry to hear that, but at least as you said he had the chance to do it on his terms and get his goodbyes in and to also reflect on everything up to that point. As someone who knows loss I understand your pain, and respect you so much to continue writing despite it.
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Post by edinosaur22 on Oct 18, 2018 2:16:55 GMT
Sorry to hear that, I also lost my grandfather a couple of years ago, and my great-grandfather in January of this year. I'm glad you were able to say goodbye to him, last thing I remember saying to both of them was that I hoped they got better.
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Post by InGenNateKenny on Oct 18, 2018 2:42:30 GMT
I am glad he made peace with you and his family before he went. While I'll never know him, knowing how you are, he must have been quite a guy.
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Post by TheNotChosenOne on Oct 18, 2018 6:53:49 GMT
I'm sorry for your loss Liquid,you have my sincere condolences.
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Post by diversegnu on Oct 19, 2018 9:36:09 GMT
I am really sorry to hear this, Liquid. Both my paternal and maternal grandfathers passed away a few years prior, so I definitely can understand at least to some extent the pain that you're feeling. Take solace in the memories that you have with him, and stay strong.
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Oct 20, 2018 22:40:41 GMT
My apologies for taking so much longer! The fact that I only started writing on the day I closed the voting certainly played a part in it, as did the aftermath of my grandfather’s death. First of all, thank you for all of the kind words you left here or in private. This is a horrible time for my family, but your support warms my heart. I am currently at my grandfather’s place again, as the burial will be held on Monday. This also likely means I won’t get much writing done until Tuesday or Wednesday. But I am pulling through this as good as possible, I think. This is a hard time and it will only get harder, with Monday being a day I genuinely dread, but I have no intentions of slowing down my writing by a considerable amount.
Lachlan Gull Tower was modest, even when compared to Lachlan's home of Phoenixfall, itself not a particularly sizeable keep. It was, as the name implied, a tower, surrounded by a small, but sturdy wall on three sides, right on top of a cliff that defended the fourth. Overlooking the Bay of Crabs, it was equal parts lighthouse and watchtower. Almost as broad as it was high, it had five floors and numerous small windows, making it easy to overlook the entire area. As it was typical with the architecture of the Vale, it was not particularly pleasing to the eye, instead relying on cold functionality. In fact, the path up the hill was steep and muddy, likely a pain for men in heavy armour and Lachlan was glad he had opted for lighter attire. Light rainfall had plagued the three riders on their way from Runestone to Gull Tower and though the sun was visible through the morning fog, drizzle kept pouring from the sky and Lachlan and his companions were draped in wet cloaks as they approached the tower. Looking more like vagabonds than knights, it was no surprise to him that a harsh voice called out to them from the wall, as they approached. “You there, stop!”, a man growled from the walls and Lachlan narrowed his eyes to see him better. Fog clouded his features, a mere figure, holding a torch. There were others there and though they weren't pointing their crossbows at the trio, it was clear that a wrong move would get them shot. “I'm taking over here”, Osborn mumbled, as he raised a hand. “Easy, Ames! Don't you recognize me?” The man on the wall hesitated for a moment, before Lachlan heard a distinct curse. “Bloody hells, Osborn”, he mumbled. “What the hell are you doing here?” The crossbowmen made no attempt at easing the tension and Lachlan raised an eyebrow, as he looked at Osborn, waiting for his reply. “I bring word from my father”, the knight replied without missing a beat. And indeed, Lord Royce had given them a letter for Ser Sterling, to hide their true reasons for being here. An audible sigh followed from the wall. “Open the gates!”, the man growled. “And inform Ser Sterling of our unexpected guests” He nodded. “Come in, Osborn, make it quick” The gates of Gull Tower were opened and a satisfied smirk formed on Osborn's face. “Witness how far a few kind words can bring you, Keding”, he mumbled and Lachlan spotted Kyle rolling his eyes. The Royce knight rode in first, with Lachlan and Kyle following shortly behind him, into the modest courtyard of Gull Tower. Indeed, the area inside the walls was notably smaller than Lachlan's home, with a stable and a small barn being the only other buildings aside from the tower itself. From the walls, a man descended down a set of stairs. He was an intimidating sight, over six feet tall and heavily muscled. A thick beard hid a plain, battle-scarred face and his dark eyes darted across the three riders. His gloved hands were crossed over his chest and he wore heavy chainmail. There was a long sword on his side and Lachlan noticed the wooden pommel, carved into the shape of a hound's head. As he reached the bottom of the stairs, a heavy, black mastiff, previously half-hidden in the shadows beneath the wall, rose from the ground and trotted over to him, following him as he came closer. Slowly, they descended from their horses, as the man had reached them. The mastiff sat down next to him, sharing his stern, somewhat sullen look. “Osborn Royce”, he said coldly. “We didn't expect you here so soon. Who are your companions?” He glanced at Lachlan and Kyle, slightly raising an eyebrow. “A Keding and a Coldwater. You're making friends, Royce?” Osborn shook his head. “We have reason to be here and it's not pleasant”, he said, as he gave him his charming smile. “Ames, these are Lachlan Keding, heir to Phoenixfall, and Kyle Coldwater, Lord of Coldwater Burn. My companions, this is Ames Howard, known as the Mastiff” Ames frowned mildly. “Captain of the Guards of Gull Tower”, he growled firmly, one of his hands now resting on the head of the animal he shared a nickname with. “It is an honour, mylords” One of his hands moved behind his back and he straightened it, the other pointed down at the tower. “Servants will take care of your horses. Follow me inside until Ser Sterling is ready to meet you” He began to walk, Osborn and the mastiff by his side, while Lachlan and Kyle followed closely behind him. His cousin had a stern look on his face, as he glanced around. “I don't like this, Lachlan”, he mumbled. “If Shett is conspiring against Lord Royce, walking straight into his keep doesn't seem very wise to me” “We don't know that yet”, Lachlan reminded him, in an equally low tone, making sure Ames would hear nothing of their conversation. “It's just a suspicion, nothing more so far” Kyle's facial expression made it clear that he did not share the sentiment, but he managed a slight nod. “If you say so, cousin”, he whispered. “But I'm telling you, Lord Royce should have just summoned him instead of sending us here” He cut himself off as they reached the tower itself. The small gates were opened and led by Ames, they entered the entrance hall of Gull Tower. The room likely made up most of its ground floor and was actually quite sizeable, with rows of tables hinting at the dozens of people who lived here, albeit it was gloomy and barely illuminated. A few guards were sitting there, spending their time by playing a game of dice. The moment they spotted Ames, they hurried up and saluted, with the man giving them a brief nod. “We can wait here”, he replied, pointing at one of the tables, two benches flanking it from each side. Without wasting another word, he sat down and after a moment, Osborn sat down on the opposite site. Lachlan hesitated a moment, but finally decided to sit down next to Ames, managing a brief nod. “You mentioned you bring a message from your father”, the captain of the guard asked, a momentary hint of curiosity in his voice. Osborn nodded. “And you would like to know, huh?”, he replied, to which Ames sighed. “I just want to know what to expect”, he replied. “We all heard the rumours, Osborn. The men are nervous. Do we have to expect war?” Osborn waited for a moment, before he confirmed it with a nod. “It certainly seems this way”, he said. “Father hopes to avoid it though. A lot is uncertain yet, but the bannermen must be informed” Ames raised an eyebrow at that. “And why does he send his own son to inform us of this when a bloody raven would be good enough?” To this, Osborn's smile grew slightly smaller. “Do you expect me to tell you about every detail I wish to discuss with your liege?”, he remarked. “Yes, there is more to this, of course. Some things I'm not allowed to share with anyone but Ser Sterling” He narrowed his eyes. “We have heard of one of your guests. A certain Otho Wayland, is that correct? A member of this Order” Ames nodded. “You heard correctly”, he confirmed and his tone made it clear how he felt about this circumstance. “Not someone you want to meet, trust me” He frowned. “Quite the pompous bastard, if you don't mind me saying. Acts as if he owns the place. To be honest, I don't even think Ser Sterling wants him here” “Then why does he keep him around?”, Lachlan asked and Ames hesitated for a bit. “The Order still has some sympathies among the smallfolk, especially here in the region”, he revealed. “If I had to guess, I'd say Ser Sterling doesn't wish to offend anyone” Osborn frowned, then nodded. “Sounds just like the old man”, he agreed. “But what about Octavia? Bet she'd have a word or two to say about this” A very brief, thin smirk flashed over Ames' face. “She would have. Unfortunately, the lady is not here at the time”, he revealed and Osborn's frown grew stronger. “She has left Gull Tower?”, he asked and Ames nodded. “She is, as you know, still looking for a suitable husband. It appears Edgar Grafton is her current suitor” “Grafton?”, Osborn growled. “He's not right for her. Never even saw him speaking to a girl. Octavia needs someone who can hold a proper conversation with her” Ames shrugged. “I'm pretty sure she's not doing this because she wants to talk to him”, he said. “It's all about making an alliance and House Grafton is one of the most important in the entirety of the Fingers, besides your own, of course” Osborn was silent after this, but Lachlan could see his obvious displeasure at the news. It appeared, as he realized, that the rumours were true, concerning the infatuation Royce's heir had with Shett's daughter. At the very least, it would explain why it was such a sore spot for him. And he knew, Kyle realized this much as well. Unlike him, his cousin did not remain silent about this. “So, the Lady Octavia...”, he said and Osborn sighed, as he gave him a slight glare. “Don't mean to press you about this, friend, but is there anything we should know? I've never met her, so maybe I should know what to expect” “She is the most beautiful woman you will ever see”, Osborn finally admitted. “And that is about all I am going to say” He sighed, as he straightened his back. “Don't get me wrong, but that is not exactly the sort of topic I want to discuss” He narrowed his eyes. “Nor is it important for our task” His demeanour made it clear that the topic was over for him. At the same time, he certainly had gained Lachlan's curiosity. Ames Howard had been silent throughout their talk, though he seemed to know the lady just as well. Maybe he could tell them more. Besides, Kyle had a point. Octavia's father stood accused of treason, if Lord Royce could be believed. Her absence here was suspicious, to say the least. Perhaps this was important. At the same time, maybe it wasn't quite what Osborn wanted to hear. [Ask Ames about Osborn's history with Octavia] [Change the topic]
Jenna “What a mess...”, Vali mumbled, as he looked at the corpse on the cart. His name had been Vashord Tallian, as Jenna remembered, General of the Rock. She hadn't seen him very often, never spoken to him, but word had it that he died with courage. They said he even managed to inflict a wound on the Tom, who had apparently kept the man's sword in return, perhaps a token of victory, or perhaps to honour the brave general who fought so fiercely. Three corpses had been recovered. Aside from Tallian, there was the knight, Roger Hill and a soldier wearing the colours of House Reyne, both butchered by Mullendore's thugs. And yet, horrified as she was at the sight, Jenna felt a small hint of relief at the thought that Willfred Reyne had not been found yet. It seemed, in the end, that Maron Mullendore had made a mistake, that the one he had to kill was still alive, on his way back to his kingdom. “He will pay for this”, Jenna replied. “He's gotten sloppy” Grimly, she clenched her fist, as she watched the guards transporting the three corpses away. “Has he?”, Vali asked. “Because I can see why he did it” He frowned, as he slowly looked around, making sure no one was observing them. “If it's a war he wants, what better way could there be to start one? I wouldn't even be so certain that the Reyne knight escaped because he got lucky” Jenna raised an eyebrow. “You think he wanted this?”, she asked and Vali shrugged. “I say it is possible”, he replied. “I mean, he claims the Rock knight tried to kill him first, but I don't buy it. He wanted this to happen, mark my words. Means he promises some sort of an advantage” His usually cheerful expression soured. “And I don't like that one bit, because it means he's smarter than I thought or madder than I feared” “He could be both”, Jenna brought up and Vali nodded. “It takes a particular mind, turning on a supposed ally as readily as Maron turned on the poor Reyne boy”, he agreed. “And yet, I bet this is not the end to his schemes. That is the sort of man who has something up his sleeve at all times” They both sighed, as one of the soldiers grabbed the corpse of Vashord Tallian by the collar, ripping off one of the man’s expensive silver buttons. With a grin, the soldier placed the trinket in his own pocket, before pushing the corpse back onto the cart. “To think we could all end like this”, Vali remarked. “I’ve been doing this line of work for years now and I’ve seen worse. But that is a thought you never get used to” He straightened his back. “Doubt Tallian was prepared. One moment, he just stood there, perhaps thinking of home and the next, he dies so that the Reyne knight might escape” To this, Jenna did not reply. She remembered her father's voice. There had been fear in it, as she realized, and still, he faced the madman, so that she could live. “Yet another victim”, she mumbled, as she glanced at the keep, unwilling to discuss this any further. The comparison, if unwilling, had ruined her already dark mood and though Vali had the decency to avoid any jokes on the expense of the recently deceased, his carefree presence was the last she wanted right now. “If you don't mind, I still got work to do” She pulled herself together, turning away from the corpses. “We'll talk later” Before she was able to leave, Vali placed a hand on her upper arm, giving her a brief, concerned nod. “Take care”, he spoke, as he remained standing, while she moved towards the keep. Of course, the servants had not been affected by the events of the last day, but there was a feeling of dread surrounding the entire castle. If not even a foreign nobleman was safe from Mullendore's plans, then what chance would a mere servant have to avoid his attention? That was perhaps what was going through everyone's head right now. Probably not only them. Kasyn Luck, Mern Gardener's ambassador, had fiercely demanded and apparently received an audience with Lord Petyr earlier today, the same applied to Helenys Bellward. Lord Selwyn had gotten into a public argument with his brother-in-law, who himself was rumoured to plan his return to Old Oak in a timely manner. A necessary move it might have been, but Maron Mullendore’s actions had alienated those close to him. Saerya... she had to find Saerya. Her decision to involve the other woman had upset Vali and ever since, they had not spoken about any further combined effort to harm the new lords of Raylansfair. He would get over it though, she knew he would. At the very least, she wouldn’t just abandon Saerya just because he did not like her. Why should she care about their problems with each other? All she wanted was to keep her home safe. That and revenge, more than anything else. She couldn’t risk this just because Vali and Saerya didn’t get along. Walking through the Great Hall and past the servants that took care of removing the remains of today’s dinner, she looked around, hoping to see Saerya’s familiar features among them. Without any luck, she instead turned to one of the hallways, entering it quickly, as she walked past two guards. They sported the colours of House Vyrwel and she had never seen them before, but even they seemed nervous about the recent events. Just as she turned around the corner, she heard the two familiar voices, arguing over something she did not understand at first. But both, Petyr Vyrwel and Maron Mullendore seemed agitated, another thing she could not even blame them for. Before they came into sight, she heard the characteristic sound of Maron’s cane on the stone floor, the same cane he had used to... Jenna narrowed her eyes, as she pushed herself into one of the darker hallways, almost hidden in one of the corners. Without any guards by their side, they came down a set of stairs and she froze in terror at the unexpected meeting. Petyr’s usually came face was distorted with rage, a heavy frown warping his features. Maron however seemed oddly pleased, having nothing but a thin smile in reply for his ally. The sight of him being so shamelessly happy cause rage to grow inside of Jenna. If only, if only, she had a knife and an opportunity, then he would lose his other eye and then his life. Though Petyr briefly glanced into her direction while arguing, he made no attempt to hide his words and she was not even certain if he had registered that she stood there, half in the shadows, soon close enough to even listen to their talk. Perhaps it was as Saerya never tired to say, they were overlooking her. “... a breach of trust!”, Petyr's voice echoed through the hallway. Jenna tensed up, noticing two things. First, Petyr was viciously angry. Second, he didn't even care that people were listening to the two of them. They knew she was there, they had to know, yes? And there she stood, seeing Petyr Vyrwel and Maron Mullendore marching side by side. “How can I still trust you after this?”, Petyr barked. “Answer me, Maron!” The beast shot him a smile and Jenna clenched her fists, as a wave of anger threatened to overwhelm her. She imagined he had the same smile on his face as he was... as he was beating her father to death. Something dangerous lurked in his eye. “The question, my friend, if some treacherous Rock bastard is what you want this alliance to end over”, he growled. “Think of how far we have come. You really think either of us can turn around now?” Jenna heard Petyr’s gulp and the lord glanced around. She suppressed a gasp, but managed to press herself deeper into the shadow, completely out of sight. He might have seen here, but at least Mullendore did not. Her breath began to grow faster, as she realized what an unexpectedly close call this had been. Had the monster seen her... by the gods, the thought alone was nauseating! “Not here, Maron”, the lord warned his ally and she heard a door creaking. The two men entered the room behind it, leaving Jenna to remain in the shadows for a little longer. Then, she exhaled. Instantly, her knees grew weaker, as she almost stumbled to the ground. Just barely did she manage to lean against the wall behind her and tears shot into her eyes. They had been so close! By the gods, had they seen her... She could still hear them, behind the door, arguing fiercely, but the thick walls prevented her from hearing anything but the tone in which they spoke. Petyr was almost yelling, whereas Maron’s voice was calm, confident and with a subtle, underlying aggressiveness. And though she could not hear it, she could guess what they were talking about. Perhaps this was her chance to find out what their plans were all about, the one secret not even Saerya was able to fully determine. At the same time, they had just almost caught her. Petyr might have even seen her already and he wouldn’t ignore her again. She had no doubt that her head would roll should she get caught this time. The reward was tempting though, so tempting that Jenna genuinely considered it, despite everything inside her screaming to just leave, to find Saerya and be done with it. After all, Saerya would know what to do, right? [Listen to their conversation] [Leave them and find Saerya]
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Post by edinosaur22 on Oct 21, 2018 0:59:43 GMT
[Ask Ames about Osborn's history with Octavia] While Osborn won't like the invasion of privacy, I'm still curious about their relationship. That could also help understand her reasons for conspiring against Royce.
[Leave them and find Saerya] While the conversation could be crucial, is very risky, so how about we find her so we can learn what she's been up to.
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