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Post by aliscot on Dec 31, 2018 13:26:16 GMT
[Advice Petyr to declare for Edmyn Tully]
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Jan 3, 2019 15:33:10 GMT
The Voting is closed! Garthon is going to advice Petyr to declare for Edmyn Tully This was a choice I was quite interested in. Obviously, Garthon is not the only influence on Petyr, there is Maurice pushing for independence and the Piper's, who believe that unifying the Riverlords behind the one candidate all could be expected to somewhat agree on should be the primary goal. However, Petyr respects Garthon and his opinion will influence him in some capacity. Let's just say, pushing for independence could have surprisingly enough been an idea that wouldn't be as terrible as it might seem in the long run, even though it would have caused tension and discord among the Riverlords in a time where they absolutely must find common ground. However, this will be something for future what if sections, because with Garthon and the Piper's urging him to declare for Edmyn Tully, it can be expected that this is what Petyr will ultimately decide to do, much to Maurice's chagrin, who would have prefered to secure House Blackwood's independence in what might be the last chance they will get in several lifetimes. Also, apologies for not being all that active lately, safe for one Dark Eye part I released with quite some delay. There is a simple and unfortunate reason for that. My mother was at the hospital again with a case of pneumonia, especially risky due to her weak lung, and I spent a lot of my time there. This slowed down all of my other activities, naturally. There is no need to be worried though, not anymore, she's fine again and she'll probably leave the hospital within the next couple of days. And this means, I can write at last. The next part is coming along nicely and I hope to release it today or tomorrow. Currently, I am writing a Kyra PoV, but I think I will add a second PoV for either Edrick or Arthur. Kyra already got a recap last time, but Edrick and Arthur didn't, so here we go. Edrick managed to start his escape from Faronhall last time, with the help of Normund Tavorch. However, things naturally didn't go smoothly and as they climbed down the castle walls, they were discovered. The alarm was sound and Edrick was left to decide to either climb down himself, or to let Dante climb down before him. Dante himself vocally demanded the former, that Edrick goes first, but after considering it for a bit, Edrick chose to insist that Dante goes first instead. Meanwhile, Arthur was present to meet the new recruits, among them characters you have previously met, such as Aylard Kawl and Elias. These two were the first to cause some trouble even. Aylard's undeniably violent temper erupted and he attacked another recruit over some disagreement. That happened at the worst possible time, just as Elias was about to reveal information about a certain encounter he had on the road to Raylansfair. Arthur was left with the choice to either stop Aylard or interrogate Elias and he chose the former, leaving Elias' interrogation to Daemion Stratford.
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Jan 6, 2019 3:15:59 GMT
Kyra “Perhaps there is another way?”, she asked and Damon raised an eyebrow. Quickly, Kyra felt a strange nervousness rising in her, beneath Damon's stern, yet slightly mocking glare. In the presence of her older brother, especially when he was looking at her like this, she felt a decade younger again, her confidence nothing but a front. “Another way?”, he repeated. “Why, what unexpected suggestions from the woman who raided Bear Island when she was fifteen” He shook his head. “What would you offer then, dear sister?” She shrugged. “Maybe we don't have to kill him”, she brought up, as she thought of how to convince Damon of her request. A thin, barely honest smile flashed over her face. “Think of it that way. A lot is going to happen in the next months. Harren has to face an invader and a rebellion at once. You cannot tell me you have planned for every alternative” Damon tilted his head. “You think Rell still has a role to play?”, he asked and Kyra nodded. “If you kill him, that's it”, she spoke. “You'll have a one-time leverage over Simon and that's it. What are you going to do if that wears off?” She smirked. “If you make sure that Rell is living on borrowed time, you can bet Simon is going to do everything he can to support you” “It's ironic that the man cares so much for his son”, Damon mumbled, to which Kyra sighed. “Rell is his last chance at leaving a legacy. I mean, look at the man. He's old, he's in poor health. How long do you think he'll last?”, she replied. “If you control Rell, you control Simon. Killing him shouldn't be the option here” Her brother thought of this for a moment. Finally, he nodded. “I like the way you're thinking, little sister”, he complimented her and it was a rare, honest expression of gratitude. “See what we can achieve together?” He put an arm around her and she tensed up, as they walked down the courtyard together. “We shall make sure Rell won't advance in Harren's grace again then”, he spoke, still not more than a mumble. “Do you have any idea how we're going to do that?” “Raylansfair”, Kyra replied. “I'm surprised Harren showed mercy, for Rell is, by all accounts, the sole survivor of a massive failure” Damon raised an eyebrow. “I wouldn't exactly call it massive”, he replied. “I mean, the raid succeeded at getting Torvin and Garthon Breaker killed” He smirked as Kyra clenched her fists. “Everyone got killed”, she spoke. “It's been a disaster and Damon's smile faded. “The way you're putting it makes me wonder...”, he began. “Could there be more he wanted to gain from the raid? I always saw it as a clever way to dispose of his enemies, but he was... well, unusually happy after Rell's report” Kyra nodded. “Vessels gave him a letter. No idea what was in it, he didn't show me” To this, Damon's smile returned. “Though I bet he showed it to your beloved Harrick”, he said in a mocking tone and Kyra narrowed her eyes. “We're not...”, she began, before she cut herself off. “You know what, if you want me to ask Harrick, why don't you just tell me right away?” Damon raised an eyebrow. “Could you please ask your most favourite Hoare about the letter?”, he asked and Kyra rolled her eyes. “That's barely better, you know”, she hissed. “But I'll ask him, alright” “Subtly”, Damon spoke, raising a finger as if to put emphasis on the word. “Don't make it seem as if you're too curious” His smile was warm and kind, but there was something in his gaze she did not like. His deep eyes had once been just like hers, but now they were cold, his smiles never reaching them. Not for the first time, she had to wonder what he had seen during his years of exile, in the far east of the world. “You have never been good at manipulating people, little sister, but if you want to survive in this world, you'll have to learn at some point” Kyra gulped. “I know how to manipulate Harrick”, she claimed, even if she had to admit, the thought wasn't sitting well with her. He was a good man and she knew, he would make for a better king than any of his family ever did. He deserved better than being manipulated by someone he cared for, someone she, admittedly, cared for as well. “Of course, the boy loves you”, Damon replied. “I am just not certain you can go through with it” He took a step closer towards her. “I know you, Kyra”, he spoke. “You are a raider, a killer, fierce and relentless to your enemies. They should be terrified of you. But I know that you're different when people you care for are involved. Family, friends... loved ones” He leant forwards. “Are you sure you can do this?” She met his glare without cowering. “I am certain”, she assured him and he merely nodded. For once, it seems he actually trusted her with something and the thought was strangely exciting. “Then I expect quick results”, he spoke. “Given how frequent your encounters with Prince Harrick are” He chuckled thinly, but before Kyra could react, a commotion behind her forced her attention. Under the sudden, loud cheers of Ironborn, a circle had formed, blocking what happened inside from her view. She sighed. “A moment, please”, she spoke, pressing the words through her clenched teeth. Damon gave her a nod, though he followed in some distance, as she approached the cheering mob, placing a hand on the hilt of her axe. “What did you call me?”, a deep voice spat from within the circle, just as Kyra had reached it. Harshly, she grabbed one of the men by the shoulder just as he noticed her, pushing him aside, before pressing herself past another, who received an elbow to the ribs for not making way quick enough. She rolled her eyes as she saw the scenery. “A bastard”, Gravven growled. “A gods-forsaken, useless bastard, not worth the shit that comes out of his ass” He spread his arms, as if to dare the other man to reply in any way. This other man was someone who was only vaguely familiar, certainly none of her men. He was only a little bit less imposing than Gravven, still having the tall build of a successful raider. His black hair was short and spiked up, while his lean face was clean shaven, revealing numerous scars all over it. He was armed with an axe, though kept it low for the time being, while Gravven was about to draw Red Rain. Just as Kyra had pushed her way to the front, this other man charged Gravven. Still having his axe lowered, he slammed into the slightly taller raider head first, with enough force to make them both stagger. His punch hit Gravven's chest, followed by one to the ribs that actually made him groan. However, Gravven immediately responded with a heavy punch right to the man's face. Kyra had seen opponents knocked out by one of these, but this other man was still standing, even if the force of the attack was causing him to back off for a second. His hand wandered to his jaw and he groaned, but he remained standing and ready to continue the fight. “You want more, bastard?”, Gravven spat. “What do you say, huh?” A vicious grin flashed over the other man's face. “I say...”, he hissed. “You hit like that cripple brother of yours, Drumm” Kyra's eyes widened just moments after Gravven's did and she knew, now she had to intervene to prevent bloodshed. She jumped between them, her right hand pushing against Gravven's chest just as her second-in-command had started his charge. “Back off!”, she roared, as her forehead slammed into the other man's face the moment he dared to come too close. This sent the appropriate message, as he indeed backed off, allowing Kyra to send an angry glare towards Gravven, who was still barely looking at her, out of his mind with rage. The moment she let go off him, he tried to continue his charge, which earned him the hilt of her axe, slammed heavily into his belly, cutting off the attack before it even began. Groaning, Gravven went onto all fours, as he looked up at Kyra. “That was unnecessary, cap”, he growled and she raised an eyebrow. “So you were not going to bash that man's head in?”, she asked to which Gravven did not reply at first. “You heard how he spoke about Dallin”, he snarled, his fists clenched, as he glared at the other man, who was smart enough to keep his distance. “I did”, Kyra confirmed, before she glared at Gravven's opponent. “You are not one of my men. What has gotten into you that you attack one of mine?” The man shook his head. “Didn't attack him”, he corrected her. “I defended myself. Maybe you didn't see it, but the first punch came from your man here” Kyra glanced at Gravven, who nodded shamelessly. “He questioned my skill”, he barked. “Called me a liar as I spoke from our raid on Fair Isle” His hand slammed onto his massive chest. “Nobody calls me a liar! I killed two dozen men on Fair Isle and I'll do it again!” He raised his fist and several of the onlookers began to cheer at him. Unfortunately, Kyra knew the truth. Gravven fought valiantly on that day, but he hardly killed more than half a dozen, the assignment her brother had given him barely worth any sort of glory. Frustrated about that, he had spent the victory feast drinking with his companions and she had realized quickly that his memory on the raid wasn't exactly correct. “Maybe you can fool all of them”, the man replied. “But I was there on that day, Drumm” He placed a hand on his chest. “The name's Drevyn Pyke” Though she had never heard his name before, she understood why he was so familiar. “You sail with Captain Smyte”, she deduced, to which Drevyn nodded. “Aye”, he confirmed. “We've returned to Harrenhal at last, though I doubt it'll be for long. Just in time to correct Drumm on his lies” “They weren't lies, you fucking bastard!”, Gravven barked and Drevyn narrowed his eyes. “Again with the bastard”, he spat. “You may have a fancy name and a fancy sword, but I'm still the better fighter” Gravven grinned, the cold, bloodthirsty grin he showed before a battle. “Prove it, Pyke”, he hissed and Kyra was between them just in time. “Back off, both of you!”, she snapped and her words had the intended effect. Fighting between Ironborn was no rare thing. Harrenhal was a violent place and they were violent people. However, this was different. They were about to kill each other, had she not intervened. Now she had to make a choice. Gravven apparently started the fight, but he was her most loyal soldier and Drevyn did his part in provoking him. Maybe a day locked up in one of the upper holding cells would be enough for one or both of them to calm down. Maybe though she should just break them up and not take any further action... [Restrain Drevyn] [Restrain Gravven] [Restrain both] [Restrain none]
Arthur “Oh, bloody hell”, Arthur mumbled. “I got this, Commander. You can talk to Elias while I deal with this” Daemion gave him a nod and crossed his arms, even if Arthur was pretty certain there would be no talking until he had dealt with the more urgent matter at hand. Quickly, he rushed towards the two fighting recruits and as he did so, another recruit joined in with him, giving him a nod to signal that he was going to follow his order. He was a young man, fair-skinned and dark-haired, with just the beginnings of a beard covering his handsome face. Aylard was out of his mind with rage. Having tackled the other recruit to the ground, he slammed the wooden training sword against the man's head, hard enough for the wood to audibly crack. Throwing away the useless weapon, he began to punch his opponent, with the surprised man barely able to block them. Soon, he was overpowered, with Aylard clearly intending to bash his skull in. Or perhaps there was no intention behind his actions at all. Such mindless rage, Arthur had seen it only rarely and always when passion was involved. He gave the recruit a nod and they rushed at Aylard from two sides. Physically, the man was likely stronger than either of them, so they had to act fast. Arthur jumped at him from behind, while the recruit gained his attention as he charged at him from the front. Grabbing him, Arthur pulled Aylard away from his victim, while the recruit pushed at the same time. That being said, the man was putting up one hell of a struggle. Arthur had learned how to prevent someone from moving too much, but it was hard for him to prevent being hit by the man's flailing strikes. Finally, with the recruit's help, they managed to push him to the ground. “Let go of me!”, Aylard roared. “I'm going to kill this son of a bitch!” He tried to get up again, but in this moment, Arthur jumped on top of him, pulling the short sword from his belt and pressing it against Aylard's throat. “You know that's not going to help your case, do you?”, he snapped back and the man forcibly calmed down. His eyes widened and now, Arthur recognized something beyond the rage. It was pain and despair. He shivered, as he realized the last time he had seen someone with so much despair in their eyes, it had been Sherryl, right before she had taken her own life. Slowly, he removed the sword from Aylard's throat, to make sure the man wouldn't do anything foolish. He remained calm, not struggling anymore, but by now, Arthur spotted a hint of tears in his eyes. “He is one of them”, he spoke. “A murderer, a monster” He glared past him and at the man he so savagely attacked. Though bleeding, he was back on his feet already, with the young recruit helping him. The man narrowed his eyes. He was lean, unshaven and with the first hints of grey hair. Something about him seemed unsavoury and he merely smirked coldly. “Bloody madman”, he spat. “I bragged a bit, aye. Used to run with the Solvers, over in Oldtown” He shrugged. “Ain't too good being one of them these days, so I quit. Heard some of the old crew is here in Raylansfair now” He chuckled, though it quickly faded as he saw the downright murderous look in Aylard's eyes. “Listen, I've never seen you in my life, asshole. Didn't even murder anyone, despite what you might have heard of my people”, he barked, before he looked at Arthur. “That man's out of his mind. That's the kind of recruit you want to have?” “Listen, I...”, Arthur began, but the man shook his head. “You know what, screw that. Thought I could turn over a new leaf in this city, but that won't happen with this guy around”, he spoke, as he wiped the dust off his shirt. “Do with him what you want. I've had worse beatings” He shook his head. “But don't expect me to stick around” He began to walk away, as Aylard once more tried to struggle against Arthur's grip. “No... no!”, the man barked. “You can't let him go! What are you doing?” Arthur raised an eyebrow. “You attacked that man for no reason”, he replied and Aylard shook his head. “Not for no reason!”, he argued. “His people murdered my daughter! And he gloated about it, how he used to be part of them” “Did he murder your daughter?”, Arthur asked, only realizing how cold that had to sound after the words had left his mouth. Aylard's eyes widened. “He... no...”, he mumbled, as he closed his eyes, biting down onto his lower lip. “But he helped them. He was with them. How can you let this man go?” Arthur gulped, as he glanced over at Valarr Roux. “He's got a point”, he said. “Follow that guy. Interrogate him and find out what he knows. If he did anything, bring him back” Valarr saluted silently, before he began to follow after the former Solver, who had already left the garrison's grounds. Arthur narrowed his eyes, as he stared down at Aylard again. Then, he let go of the man, who remained on the ground a little bit longer. “You would have bashed a man's head in, just because he knows the wrong crowd”, Arthur hissed. “By that logic, we'd have to put half of our garrison to the sword” Aylard sluggishly rose from the ground, as two guardsmen approached him from behind. On Arthur's command, they grabbed the man. “This is not the way of the city guard”, he spoke. “And I don't know if you're suited to serve. I'll have a talk with the commander about what happened today. Until then, take him away. A day in the cells might be what he needs” The man did not struggle. Wordlessly and with a look of vicious pain in his gaze, he was led past Arthur and towards the building. In the distance, Arthur caught Daemion's approving nod and he sighed. This was decidedly not what he wanted to deal with. He had intervened, but Aylard was clearly a broken man, while his victim was probably not the kind of man anyone would have mourned for. Had he done the right thing? “You did good, recruit”, he spoke towards the young man who helped him. The recruit saluted. “It was a pleasure, Ser!”, he replied. “The name is Axell Snow, I'm glad I was able to help” Arthur nodded. “What leads you to the city guard, Axell?”, he asked and the young man shrugged. “I've tried to do good before”, he spoke. “And people I cared for died. The local farmers, I wasn't able to do enough” He smiled. “So I want to learn how to protect others. How to truly support Raylansfair”, he said. “Plus, I'm not all that cut for farm work. Maybe a guardsman is more my calling” Arthur patted Axell onto the back. “Keep it up like this and I can rightly confirm this”, he spoke. “Now, get back in line. Good job, guardsman!” He rose his short sword. “This doesn't change much!”, he yelled. “Get back in line. Keep up your training. Impress us and you'll get a chance at staying here, as a member of the city guard!” He smiled as the recruits indeed followed his order and soon, pairs of two had formed again, to pick up their training once more. Arthur glanced to the side, seeing that Commander Daemion and Elias were approaching him. The commander had an approving smile on his face. “That was excellent work, Captain Nathamer!”, he complimented him. “We'll see to it that this man will be treated fairly, but a few days in custody are probably a good thing” “Thank you, captain”, Arthur replied, as he glanced at Elias. “Have you two spoken?” Daemion nodded. “And I am afraid it is nothing good”, he said, as he gave Elias a nod. “Tell him what you told me” Elias sighed. “So, on my way to Raylansfair, I had a chance encounter on the road”, he growled. “And trust me, I'd much rather not have it. That was some shit, I'm telling you” He paused for a moment. “There was this freak, you know. Guy wore a mask, roughly resembling a cat, I think”, he revealed and Arthur tensed up as he remembered what had happened a few days ago. The Fang, that had been his name, unleashed by Maron Mullendore and the Tom. “A cat-masked freak?”, he asked and Daemion raised an eyebrow. “Sounds familiar, doesn't it?”, he mumbled. “I have heard enough of these Alley Cats to know better than to trust them” He gave Elias a nod. “Go on, recruit” Elias saluted. “So, was minding my own business, when that guy approached me. At first I thought he was going to attack me, but I suppose my steel kept him at a distance”, he continued. “Though I don't think that was because he didn't want to kill me, I was just too much effort” Arthur sighed, as he realized what could have happened. Mullendore's decision to unleash the fang, it could place dozens at risk. How many had he killed by now, how many more would he kill? “So, he asked me a question, with that really unsettling voice”, Elias continued. “I've seen some fucked up shit in my life, but that man? Gives me the creeps” “What did he ask you?”, Arthur asked and Elias shrugged. “He asked for a man and a woman”, he replied. “Constantine and Catelins, a knight and a murderer, as he described them” Daemion tilted his head. “We do have bounties on these two”, he revealed and Elias raised an eyebrow. “How high?”, he asked, though he quickly pulled himself together. “Doesn't matter. I've told him the truth, you know. Never saw anyone by that name in my life. He told me how they look and again, I had to decline. Barely met a living soul during my travels in this part of the Reach” “That means Ser Maron is wrong”, Daemion spoke. “He informed us that the fugitives make their way to Oldtown, which is where Elias comes from” Arthur nodded. “Or they are not taking the main road”, he replied, as he looked at Elias. “What did you tell him?” The recruit shrugged. “As I said, never met them”, he replied. “Told him they might head for Highgarden. He gave me a nod and we parted ways. Left me with some pretty sick nightmare” “So, there is a savage Alley Cat on the loose”, Daemion concluded. “Searching for two fugitives, who are not taking the main road to Oldtown” He looked at Arthur. “Do you know anything about this, captain?”, he asked and Arthur's eyes widened. “Me?”, he gasped. “Why would you...?” Daemion cut him off. “Sorry, just making assumptions”, he spoke. “But it's known you have connections to them. Your meetings with this Sphynx have not gone unnoticed. Maybe your new friend has slipped some information about this new devilry?” Arthur hesitated to actually tell him. The Fang was wicked and dangerous, that much was for certain and after all that Sherryl told him, he knew Maron Mullendore was worse. However, if not even the Commander of the city guard was informed about this, then perhaps there was a reason for this. Telling Daemion, maybe it could give them an opportunity to prepare for anything unexpected. What if the Fang would grow out of control, what if he would decide to stalk the people of Raylansfair instead of the prey he was ordered to take down? But it could come at the cost of angering a very powerful and terrifyingly dangerous man up in the castle... [Tell them about Mullendore and the Fang] [Hide your knowledge]
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Louk
New Member
Posts: 43
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Post by Louk on Jan 6, 2019 6:52:47 GMT
[Restrain Drevyn] Gravven is her most loyal man and a personal friend, not siding with him here isn't going to be a smart move. The dragons are coming and she's going to need loyal people beside her, and as far as I can tell Gravven is her most loyal by far. As much as I'd love to see Gravven and Pyke fighting, things could surely get way out of hand. While Pyke seems to be a good fighter himself, Red Rain is a pretty nasty weapon... especially at the hands of an angry Gravven. Besides, even though Gravven didn't kill as many as he drunkenly claim to have killed, calling him out on that would only make the others look down on him and trust me, that's something you'd never want to do to a Drumm, especially the one they call the Butcher of Old Wyk.
As for the second choice, I'm actually not sure which to go with. I'll wait a bit and see what the others think about it.
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Post by drdestroyer18 on Jan 6, 2019 13:03:09 GMT
[Restrain none] [Hide your knowledge] Yes Drevyn's here and a mention of Captain Smyte who will likely show up this chapter as well. Love what you did with him so far and Can't wait to see how this goes. As for my choice to hide the knowledge well last chapter finale really proved how unstable Maron is so it might not be a good idea to make him mad.
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Post by TheAPlegends on Jan 6, 2019 13:17:55 GMT
[Restrain none]
[Tell them about Mullendore and the Fang]
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Post by edinosaur22 on Jan 6, 2019 16:59:06 GMT
[Restrain both] Who would have thought Gravven would be so protective of his brother, especially how much Westerosi society looks upon cripples. While Gravven is indeed loyal to Kyra, is better not to tempt fate and let them unrestrained in case the other uses taunts.
[Tell them about Mullendore and the Fang] While its risky if Mullendore and the Alley Cats find out, if they aren't careful, there will be more victims.
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Post by supersagig on Jan 6, 2019 19:46:52 GMT
[Restrain none]
[Hide your knowledge]
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Post by WildlingKing on Jan 6, 2019 21:19:47 GMT
[Restrain none] As Louk said Gravven is a loyal man that Kyra needs by her side on what's to come. However, if we're going not going to punish him then I don't feel like it's fair to restrain this Drevyn either, people would surely see it as hypocritical.
[Tell them about Mullendore and the Fang] Eh, fuck it. The more everyone complies to his actions out of fear, the more Mullendore is in control. Let's not make it easy for him.
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Post by GMS Freeman on Jan 7, 2019 8:16:25 GMT
[Restrain None]
[Hide your knowledge]
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Jan 7, 2019 21:12:19 GMT
[Restrain Drevyn] Gravven is her most loyal man and a personal friend, not siding with him here isn't going to be a smart move. The dragons are coming and she's going to need loyal people beside her, and as far as I can tell Gravven is her most loyal by far. As much as I'd love to see Gravven and Pyke fighting, things could surely get way out of hand. While Pyke seems to be a good fighter himself, Red Rain is a pretty nasty weapon... especially at the hands of an angry Gravven. Besides, even though Gravven didn't kill as many as he drunkenly claim to have killed, calling him out on that would only make the others look down on him and trust me, that's something you'd never want to do to a Drumm, especially the one they call the Butcher of Old Wyk. As for the second choice, I'm actually not sure which to go with. I'll wait a bit and see what the others think about it. Oh yes, this is why Kyra is considering giving him some leniency here. He is undoubtedly loyal and beyond that, he is one of Kyra's closest friends. One does not easily punish such a person, even if Gravven technically did wrong by attacking Drevyn (and he did attack him first out of injured pride, even before Drevyn insulted Dallin). If they keep up their fight though, well, Gravven would most likely injure or outright kill him and that would be something Kyra cannot ignore. So, this situation must be handled with care, if she wants to keep her most loyal friend around for the confirmed hardships to come. And sure, take your time. I can say, both choices will have pretty big consequences, so just let me know if you come to a decision for the second one
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Jan 7, 2019 21:16:18 GMT
[Restrain none] [Hide your knowledge] Yes Drevyn's here and a mention of Captain Smyte who will likely show up this chapter as well. Love what you did with him so far and Can't wait to see how this goes. As for my choice to hide the knowledge well last chapter finale really proved how unstable Maron is so it might not be a good idea to make him mad. Glad you enjoyed his first appearance here! I can confirm, we will see Captain Smyte in this chapter, though I am not entirely sure which part he will appear. But he'll have a role and Drevyn will have further appearances in this chapter as well. I am actually quite confident that you will enjoy his role in the things to come That is true, if Maron, by any means, finds out that Arthur reveals his knowledge about the Fang, this could make him a very powerful enemy. Arthur is in a bit of a predicament here, because if the Fang ends up as a danger to the people of Raylansfair, this could just as easily make him an enemy of Daemion Stratford, or at least cause him to fall from his favour.
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Post by diversegnu on Jan 8, 2019 12:33:51 GMT
[Restrain Drevyn] I'm afraid if we don't have Gravven's blind trust, he's going to dig deeper into the whole Damon business.
[Tell them about Mullendore and the Fang] I see we got a new guardsman with the last name Snow, wonder if he'll be anything like good ol' Federico.
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Jan 10, 2019 22:44:01 GMT
[Restrain Drevyn] I'm afraid if we don't have Gravven's blind trust, he's going to dig deeper into the whole Damon business. [Tell them about Mullendore and the Fang] I see we got a new guardsman with the last name Snow, wonder if he'll be anything like good ol' Federico. Actually, Axell Snow is an established character already, but he hasn't been seen since the end of Book 1. He is one of the farmers who supported Richard and Roman during their hunt for the beast in the second half of Book 2, more precisely he worked for Roman as a farmhand. Later, he spent some time with Vaasrand, who seemed to have inspired him to become more than just another farmer. I got some plans for him, so I am pretty certain there will be more in store than it was for Federico.
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Post by diversegnu on Jan 11, 2019 3:58:21 GMT
[Restrain Drevyn] I'm afraid if we don't have Gravven's blind trust, he's going to dig deeper into the whole Damon business. [Tell them about Mullendore and the Fang] I see we got a new guardsman with the last name Snow, wonder if he'll be anything like good ol' Federico. Actually, Axell Snow is an established character already, but he hasn't been seen since the end of Book 1. He is one of the farmers who supported Richard and Roman during their hunt for the beast in the second half of Book 2, more precisely he worked for Roman as a farmhand. Later, he spent some time with Vaasrand, who seemed to have inspired him to become more than just another farmer. I got some plans for him, so I am pretty certain there will be more in store than it was for Federico. Oh yeah, I remember him now. I can't believe it completely went over my head whilst I read this part.
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Jan 12, 2019 16:38:31 GMT
The Voting is closed! Kyra is going to restrain neither Drevyn nor Gravven Arthur is going to tell Daemion what he knows about the Fang Kyra's choice is going to have some interesting consequences, but the same can be said about Arthur. Both take a bit of a risk here, but for Kyra at least, you probably made the wiser decision. Restraining just one of them would have made her seem biased, especially with Drevyn, whereas restraining both could have been harsh, especially as neither believe themselves to have done anything wrong. It remains to be seen if there will be any long-term consequences coming from this. The next part will be out tomorrow. I had a bit of a busy weekend so far and will be busy today as well, so I doubt it'll be finished today. Means, I'm aiming at a release later tomorrow. Writing is making some nice progress though and I think you'll enjoy the next part It will feature PoV's from Edrick and Jenna. Edrick already got a recap last time I closed the voting, so here is one for Jenna. Last time we saw her, she was cleaning up the mess left by Mullendore's attack on Willfred Reyne. The official version is that Mullendore was merely defending himself, but naturally, Jenna doubts this and so do quite a number of key players in Raylansfair. On her way to catch up with Saerya, she stumbled upon a conversation between Petyr and Maron, but you chose for her to not spy on them and instead she chose the safer option of finding Saerya.
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Jan 15, 2019 2:39:20 GMT
Apologies for the later release. As always, there is a simple reason for this. While writing Edrick's PoV, I realized it'll be a long one, longer than one full part. Problem is, I had already written Jenna's PoV and really wanted to have it in this part, especially as it has quite the length already. So, I removed Edrick's PoV from this part and will instead release it next time. It also means that the next part is already half written, so I might close this voting earlier than usual. Instead of Edrick, you'll get the beginning of John's storyline, I hope you enjoy it
Jenna Reluctantly, Jenna turned away from the door. Tempting as it was, everyone in the castle was on the edge right now and this was doubly true for the two men in charge. There were a lot of things she doubted about herself, but her ability to talk herself out of that? There was no doubt that she would be killed, should they catch her. As such, she did not dare to risk it, though she couldn't help but sigh at the missed opportunity. Even as she walked through the castle, she had to ask herself just what they were planning, the lord of Raylansfair and the beast who murdered her father. They couldn't get away with this, could they? The attack on Willfred Reyne, killing one of Lannister's most loyal generals. She clenched her fists, as she realized that this would mean war. And she had the bad feeling that this was exactly what at least Mullendore had been aiming for. Yet as much as it tore her apart, her fear was stronger this time. She could not risk everything for this, not right now. First, she had to find Saerya. Then, they had to act, quickly, before Mullendore would recover from the fallout of his own actions. And this was how she calmed herself, as she hurried through the hallways, ever closer to Saerya's quarters. She was only barely surprised when she heard the voices, as she approached her destination. Saerya was easy to spot, but the man she was speaking to, she wasn't quite sure where she had heard his voice before. Stopping for a moment, Jenna sent a brief prayer to the Seven that she wouldn't walk into anything unseemly. Then, she knocked and opened the door. Her prayers had been listened to, for Saerya and her companion were sitting on opposite sites of the small table in the servant's room, both fully dressed. Saerya had her face to the door, merely raising an eyebrow as Jenna entered. Her companion was visibly more alarmed by her arrival. He was young, likely only a few years older than herself and his clean-shaven face placed emphasis on this youth. It also revealed him to be quite handsome and though he had the flawless skin of a prince, his build was more akin to a warrior, wiry and muscled. He had dark hair and was looking at her out of sea green eyes. Most importantly was his attire, the white tabard with the green hand on it, clearly displaying his loyalties and cluing her in to where she had seen him before. “Ser Kasyn”, she spoke, as she closed the door. Kasyn Luck was not exactly whom she had expected right here, the Gardener knight and the Targaryen spy. The knight seemed alarmed at her sudden arrival. “What is this girl doing here, Lady Waters?”, he growled, his hand wandering to where a knight usually kept his sword. However, he was unarmed, as he himself quickly realized, so he merely clenched his fists, raising from his chair. Saerya smirked. “There is no need to be startled, Ser”, she assured him. “In this entire castle, Jenna is my most trusted friend. I guarantee you, she is capable to aid you in your plea” She gave Jenna a nod, beckoning her to come closer and Jenna did a brief curtsy in front of Ser Kasyn. “My name is Jenna Harking, m'lord”, she mumbled. Kasyn hesitated for a moment, before he raised an eyebrow. “Harking?”, he asked, as he glanced at Saerya. “Isn't that the girl whose...” He cut himself off, but Jenna knew what he meant to say. “My father was murdered by the man you investigate”, she replied, her voice shivering slightly, but she met his gaze without fear. She glanced at Saerya. “You two have been talking. Ser Kasyn was startled by my arrival, which means it was sensitive topics”, she deduced. “So, I take it you told him about what we know?” A brief grin flashed over Saerya's face as Ser Kasyn frowned. “As I said, she is capable”, the spy repeated. “You are right, dear. We have spoken about some of the juicier details surrounding our knowledge on Ser Maron” Kasyn sighed. “Of course, your friend failed to deliver hard evidence for her accusations”, he admitted. “Which is what I came to collect. Her reports match my own suspicions though, I am afraid” “You know what sort of a man he is”, Jenna mumbled and Kasyn nodded. “A murderer at the very least. While I haven't spoken too much with the Reyne boy, he and his people never struck me as the kind to just attack him without reason. Means, either there was a reason and he's hiding it from me, or they did not attack first”, he agreed. “Either way, doesn't paint him in a good light. There's also the rumours, about his brutal behaviour in Oldtown” “More than rumours”, Saerya corrected him. “Give me a month and I can give you half a dozen witnesses who will confirm that his crimes in Oldtown exceed those he committed in Raylansfair by far” Kasyn nodded. “And I would never doubt them”, he told her. “But how many of those witnesses are highborn? How many are respectable enough that anyone in the proper standing would take their word over that of a highborn knight?” He shook his head. “Such is the predicament I sought to solve during my stay here. I stayed in the shadows, watched and learned and I believe there were moments where the lords of Raylansfair forgot I was even there. And all I got are rumours and suspicions” “I am sorry we cannot offer you more”, Jenna mumbled, as Saerya chuckled. “I mean, there is this other thing we discussed”, she brought up and Kasyn nodded. “Yes indeed and honestly, it is a big part in why I am willing to believe you”, he confirmed. “It's not all day one gets to meet a Targaryen spy” As soon as he had said this, Jenna's eyes widened. “You told him about that as well?”, she asked and Saerya nodded. “Sweet, the truth is a dangerous tool. Use it too candidly and you will die a fool's death, simple as that. However, there are times where it is better to be honest and upfront”, she explained. “I had to win Ser Kasyn's trust and though I freely admit I would have liked to keep my secrets, I needed to act quickly and what better way was there but to offer something truly irresistible” Her almost suggestive way of saying this visibly flustered the knight, who gazed onto the ground beneath his feet for a moment. “We know a war is coming for our kings”, he mumbled. “But if our combined effort can prevent bloodshed and eliminate a mutual foe, then it is my duty to assist you” He placed a hand on his chest and nodded firmly. “This I swear by my liege” “Quite the promise”, Saerya spoke, her tone only mildly smug. “Though now that Jenna is here, we might be able to help you first” She gave him a wink. “To prove our honest intentions”, she added, before she glanced at Jenna. “My friend here has done this before, so worry not, she's an expert” Kasyn raised an eyebrow. “Is that so?”, he asked and he gave Jenna a questioning and somewhat doubtful glance. “What is it?”, Jenna growled and Kasyn sighed. “I need to get out of here”, he revealed. “It's clear that those who are willing to talk to me don't have the evidence I need, so I can't get anything more done from my current position” He glanced at the door. “I sent ravens to Highgarden, detailing my progress and voicing my suspicions, but I never received a reply”, he continued. “And by now, I fear that someone made sure my messages would never reach the king” “It means Maron Mullendore might be perfectly aware of Ser Kasyn's suspicions”, Saerya explained, but Jenna had already understood it. “You need to get out of here”, she realized and the knight nodded. “As much as I would have preferred to leave with more, my suspicions have to be enough. If I reach the king, it will spell trouble for the worrying alliance I have found in this city” His expression grew more sympathetic. “If all your father stands accused of is harbouring an innocent man, then I guarantee you, his name will be cleared” Jenna nodded, clenching her fists and taking a deep breath. “How can I help?”, she said, her neutral tone forced for a second, as she glanced at Saerya, slightly biting down onto her lower lip. “I mean, how can we help”, she added after a moment of hesitation, which seemed to satisfy the other woman. “That's the spirit”, she complimented her. “See, I was hoping you'd be on board with this. After all, you have experience with this, after the business with the knight” As Jenna frowned, Kasyn raised an eyebrow. “Ah, yes, Constantine”, he spoke. “I remember him from when he stayed at Highgarden. His family still lives there” He shook his head. “The man has his flaws, surely, but I am convinced of his innocence. For anyone who has met him in person, Mullendore's accusations are outrageous and I will make sure to mention this when I speak to the king” “How can we help you then”, Jenna asked and just as she expected, Saerya spoke up in return. The woman had made a plan already, of course she had. “As always, I require your help, my friend”, Saerya chuckled. “I can help our knight here, but I cannot do it on my own” Jenna nodded. “Figures”, she replied and for a brief moment, she shared Saerya's confident smirk. “How can I help?” “Well, my main problem is that I cannot be in two places at once”, Saerya spoke. “After our trick with Ser Leonard, the guards will be especially watchful, as will Lord Petyr himself. It's not as if we're smuggling a nobody out of this castle. Ser Kasyn is his... most cherished guest, so I am certain he will notice if he is missing” “What do you suggest then?”, Jenna asked, glancing at Kasyn Luck. The knight seemed confident, but he couldn't be, could he? He was barely older than her and she was terrified. “One of us must distract our dear lord”, Saerya revealed. “Now, don't give me that look! It's not as if I ask you to get anywhere near this brute Mullendore. Petyr appreciates a proper conversation and I know from reliable sources, he has gotten few of these lately. Those around him, he needs to be wary of, regardless if it's Mullendore, Selwyn or Oakheart. You are smarter than you have any right to be, so I am certain he will be delighted if you talk with him, delighted enough to ignore me helping our friend out of the castle at the same time” Jenna raised an eyebrow. “Talking to him?”, she asked. “About what?” Saerya shrugged. “Anything, really”, she spoke. “Within a short few weeks, the man lost his father, his mother and his half-brother. And now, we know he had a hand in all of them, but such an act, I doubt there's many men in this world who do it lightly” She blinked. “Regret is what makes a man talk, what distracts him when no one's watching”, she explained. “And it might tell us more about this man we have to face” “And the alternative?”, Jenna asked. Saerya seemed almost disappointed for a moment. “It would be the easier task”, she admitted. “Even if I consider you capable of having a conversation with our lord. No, he is just part of the problem. The other part is the castle guard. No doubt your rat of an uncle told them how we got Constantine out. This means, I need someone to deal with them” “You want me to talk to them as well?”, Jenna mumbled and Saerya shook her head. “Just one of them”, she spoke. “Nora Recton, their captain. Well, former captain, I think. Farnham has taken over since and I don't think that sits right with her. But the guard stands loyal to her, for she led them during the raid” “I know Nora”, Jenna confirmed and Saerya clapped. “Splendid”, she replied. “Well, I can do it just as well, I am sure of it, but I think Nora is our best bet if we want to have a friend among the guards, someone who can convince them to look the other way while Kasyn leaves the castle, with them not caring and our dear lord not noticing” She raised a finger. “I think it is clear I would prefer you to take care of Petyr. I... frankly, I am not sure I can do this. The few times I tried to talk to him, he made an excuse to get rid of me quickly”, she admitted. “But you can pick your favourite, I'll take care of the other” [Contact Nora Recton] [Distract Petyr Vyrwel]
John He hadn't been to Volantis too often and truth be told, he didn't really want to pay it another visit. What Oldtown was for Westeros, Volantis was for Essos, without a doubt, but like all things in Essos, it was three times as large, three times as confusing and ten times as deadly. Unfortunately, even beyond Lysara's request, it was natural stop on their search for Abbas. A pile of shit never failed to attract the dung beetles. In fact, it was one of the most important slaving cities in this part of the world, especially after Lys lost a lot of its appeal to the dung beetles. However, he knew how to survive in a place as dangerous as this. In a way, it made him glad that Jaron chose to go with Lysara. As much as John did not trust the Rogare girl, the place beyond the Black Walls held less chance for instant and gruesome death for a newcomer in this city. John knew which places to avoid and even better, he had Aidan with him. The captain and his first mate Gill left the ship with John and Temari, while Jaron, Samuel and Arryn accompanied Lysara Rogare to her meeting. And unlike the clean, lavishly rich and undeniably exciting places of Old Volantis, where he and the pirates were heading to was more in line with what he had come to expect from Essos. With a bit of luck, they'd at least manage to make it to Fishermonger's Square, one of the arguably nicer parts of Volantis, but he fully expected Aidan to travel to the Slaver's Holdfast. The name was actually misleading. Though it used to be the place where the Volantene bought their slaves hundreds of years ago, the labyrinthine fortress in western Volantis had long since lost its appeal, the modern slave markets being located closer to the docks. Nowadays, while slaves were still among the sold goods, they were no longer the only wares sold, nor were they the most numerous by any means. The spacious building was used for pretty much anything. John knew of two taverns and at least one brothel within its rooms, a decent blacksmith, two fighting pits, a rundown theatre and almost a dozen small shops who sold general goods. Between them were rooms rented as homes. One could presume that Slaver's Holdfast was a good place to be, but as John had learned the hard way during his last stay in the city, this was far from the truth. The nobleman who owned the building allowed other groups to essentially do as they please in there, in exchange for what John could only presume to be a sizeable bribe. The place was not exactly lawless, but the laws of Volantis counted little among the myriad of rules and codes one had to keep in mind when dealing with the people who lived in Slaver's Holdfast. On the positive side, the one ware that was traded the most in there was information. The people in charge of the fortress Surely enough, Aidan fearlessly led them through the bustling streets of Volantis and onto a path John knew too well. To avoid the heat of this autumn afternoon, the citizens had covered the smaller streets with coloured cloths, allowing for a cool shade beneath and Aidan picked this way, the four pushing themselves through the crowd. A newcomer such as Jaron would have likely stopped more than once, marvelling at the colours, the shapes and smells. John however had been here before and was in no mood to enjoy his current stay. As such, he barely even looked at anything but his companions. Aidan was talking to Gill and though the captain was smiling and jesting, his unnerving eyes did not smile and it was clear how unhappy he was to be here, under orders of one of the most influential slavers in Essos on top of that. Not even the thought of catching a slaver in Lysara's name was enough for him to cheer up for long. Gill in return was stoic as always. Out of the four, he was easily the most experienced, even John had to admit this. The old sailor barely said a word, even as a reply to Aidan, instead he carefully checked their surroundings, his gruff glare alone enough to scare of any pickpockets who weren't frightened by Temari's scowl. And soon, they reached Slaver's Holdfast. Once, the ancient fortress had stood beyond the walls of Volantis, the first bastion to the west, overlooking the valley closest to Old Volantis. The valley was long since part of the city itself, the city walls had expanded beyond Slaver's Holdfast and the building, no longer needed to defend anything, fell into disrepair. Nowadays, it was lacking three of its once five towers and its entire gate, while two walls had been breached, allowing for additional entrances into the contorted interior. Statues built into the walls themselves, long since devoid of any meaningful features, proclaimed Volantis' past glory and its victories and two stone dragons, one of them headless and wingless, the other missing its lower jaw and part of its tail, were forever roaring in silence, flanking the main entrance into the building. The square around it was filled with life. The merchants who weren't fortunate enough to get an actual store within one of the holdfast's rooms were keeping their stalls just outside the walls, which meant that they had to cross a small labyrinth of different merchant stalls first and a cacophony of languages, from the common tongue of Westeros to guttural northern dialects, to stranger accents which could only come from the farther east. “Whom exactly are we looking for?”, John asked over the noise and Temari raised an eyebrow. “Abbas the slaver”, he replied. “Couldn't care less for what the Rogare bitch wants. If we get a lead to Abbas in there, I'll follow that one and you should do the same. Let the Rogare bank find their people by themselves” Aidan smiled at this. “As much as I would like to support your decision, I am afraid it is my life on the line”, he replied. “So, if you want to keep me by your side, you will do no such thing, my sour-faced friend” He shook his head. “We are looking for a man who might be able to tell me where a disgraced slaver could hide”, he explained. “Wether that means Blacktyde or your Abbas, well, would be nice to get both of them at once, wouldn't it?” “We'll stay clear of the people in charge of the holdfast”, Gill explained. “The Paleblooded would rather gut us than help us, the Ibbenese never sell anyone out and the Butcher's Men...” Temari interrupted him. “Let me guess, with a name like that, they are nuts”, he spoke, but Gill merely narrowed his eyes, before he shook his head. “They deal in meat, not rumours”, he clarified. “We are looking for a Norvoshi and it shouldn't be too hard to find him”, Aidan explained. “Kovaggo Rednar is his name and if I am not mistaken, he should currently reside within the holdfast, close to the beast pit. He's a showman, one who is hired by the high and mighty, but also by anyone who has enough coin inside this city. Like the kind who might hide our friend Blacktyde” He shrugged. “In the past, I realized that nobody expects Kovaggo to be this well-connected, but if anyone can point us in the right direction, it's him” With this, he pushed past the last stand, directly entering Slaver's Holdfast through one of the larger holes in its side. Nobody had ever made an attempt to fix it and as such, it was repurposed into another entrance. Part of the floor to their right had crumbled away as well and the remaining ground floor, together with the sizeable basement, were now part of a popular fighting pit, albeit the lack of visitors made it clear that there would be no business today. It did not take Aidan long to find his man among the few who were currently residing near the pit. Given that he was described as a Norvoshi, John did not need long to spot him as well. He had claimed a sizeable alcove for himself, hiding his belongings behind a lavish tapestry from Norvos. Short and stocky, he had a sizeable paunch and black locks, cut above his shoulders. Just like his fine tapestry, he was clad in expensive fabrics, wearing an emerald green vest, lined with gold. His long, thick beard showed streaks of red, dyed in the fashion John would have more expected from a Tyroshi. Aidan approached him and as the man recognized him, he spread his arms, grabbing the pirate by the shoulders and talking to him in his native tongue. John frowned, for the Norvoshi dialect was one of the few he did not understand in the slightest, but they talked fast and with heavy gestures. More than once, Aidan pointed in their direction and the Norvoshi nodded. Finally, both turned to John, Aidan and Gill. “Aidan wants help”, the Norvoshi spoke and his common tongue was atrocious. “Kovaggo has all he needs, as he tours the land with his Beopin. But days in Volantis are dull. So, he helps only if you amuse him” John raised an eyebrow, glancing at Temari, then at Gill. Neither of them seemed any bit humorous, so he stepped forwards. “Well, out of the three of us, I think I'm the funny one”, he admitted, before he pointed at Aidan. “Though I'd say Captain Storm is better than all three of us combined” “Utterly right, mate”, Aidan confirmed. “Though I humoured him during our last meeting. He wants someone fresh” John shrugged. “Sure, what am I supposed to do? Tell him a joke, or juggle? Can't do either of that, I hope you know that” Kovaggo grinned. “No, not joke”, he clarified. “I only make business with man who can fight Beopin” “Fight?”, John asked and he smirked. “Now you're speaking my language, Norvoshi. Where's your fighter?” Kovaggo nodded. “Fight, yes!”, he confirmed, though he glanced at Aidan, who had both eyebrows raised. Was it confusion, or amusement? The captain's expression was hard to read as always. In this moment, the Norvoshi clapped his hands. Someone moved behind the tapestry. No... something, as John realized, as he heard heavy, inhuman footsteps and a beastly yawn. Then, he actually jumped back a step, as from behind it came not a human fighter, but a grown bear, deep brown, perhaps almost fat, but nonetheless twice John's size. Worst of it all, he was walking freely, not bound in chains or kept in a cage, as his kind usual was when inside a city. “Beopin”, Kovaggo spoke. “You win against Beopin, we make business” He grinned and his smile was almost innocent, considering what he demanded. John gave Aidan an alarmed look, but to his surprise, the captain merely chuckled. “I take it your common tongue is still horrible, Kovaggo”, he said, before he gave John a wink. “Now, mate, come on. Why don't you fight our furry friend here as the nice Norvoshi requests? He assured me he might be able to make a few introductions in return. Who knows, might even be a lead to your missing women” John tensed up. Had the captain actually lost his mind? Then again, perhaps he should have expected it from someone as capricious as Aidan Storm. That man probably had lost his mind years ago. He glanced at Temari, who shook his head and indeed, John rightfully hesitated. He could not fight a grown bear, could he? Seven, what was that thing doing here either way, entirely unchained and apparently living in the same room as Kovaggo? No, he could not fight the bear, right? His hand wandered to his sword, but before it met the hilt, he reached his purse, still heavy with the rest of Daghan's coin. Kovaggo claimed to have all he needed, but John was pretty certain that a man like him had his price. Perhaps this could be settled without having to resort to violence... [Fight the bear] [Bribe the Norvoshi]
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Post by edinosaur22 on Jan 15, 2019 4:28:17 GMT
[Contact Nora Recton] Petyr is no man's fool, and even if she likes Jenna, I don't think she's the best to do it. And it's been some time since we last saw Nora.
[Fight the bear] While the odds are never in favor of the man vs the bear, maybe it's not as dangerous as he looks. Or it's a test. Either way I doubt a fighting bear would be unchained just like that.
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Post by GMS Freeman on Jan 15, 2019 9:28:44 GMT
[Contact Nora Recton]
[Fight the Bear]
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Post by TheAPlegends on Jan 15, 2019 10:49:10 GMT
[Distract Petyr Vyrwel]
[Fight the bear]
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Post by drdestroyer18 on Jan 15, 2019 15:18:20 GMT
[Distract Petyr Vyrwel] [Fight the bear]
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Post by WildlingKing on Jan 15, 2019 17:39:28 GMT
[Distract Petyr Vyrwel] Well, we've seen already that Petyr is perfectly willing to have a chat with Jenna, and I'm sure she'll be able to handle it as well. It was nice to finally get to know Ser Kasyn a little better, though it's a pity we haven't been able to give anything concrete against Mullendore for him. Anyway, he seems like decent guy, I hope he'll manage to make it out of Raylansfair safely.
[Fight the Bear] Eh... I guess we'll do it? XD I have a feeling this Kovaggo is actually just messing with us though, and will stop John before the fight actually begins. Who knows, maybe this bear is more into dancing than fighting.
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Post by supersagig on Jan 15, 2019 21:48:56 GMT
[Distract Petyr Vyrwel]
[Fight the bear]
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Post by diversegnu on Jan 16, 2019 15:51:30 GMT
[Contact Nora Recton] A forced conversation with Petyr doesn't sound like a good move for Jenna. Petyr's smart, I'm sure he'll notice something's off.
[Fight the bear] I hope we don't kill the bear, from the way you described it, it sounds cute haha.
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Post by chaosjester on Jan 18, 2019 9:37:04 GMT
[Distract Petyr Vyrwel]
Jenna has had the conversation with Petyr before and with this current scenario on the line could probably ace it! Besides, if anything the man would put any nerves she had down to recent events in the Castle.
It was so good to see Kasyn making friends. And if worst comes to worst he still made an ally with Saerya which counts for something. Something tells me his escape is going to go terribly wrong no matter what choice be make here though haha. Hope he's ready to fight if it comes down to it. Does he still have the Tyrell Garrison in his command? Or did they leave?
[Fight the Bear]
May be a test anyway just to see if he would fight it. I don't think think this trader would give up what is possibly an expensive belonging. So probably a test to see if the crew is serious
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Jan 22, 2019 14:13:10 GMT
[Distract Petyr Vyrwel] Jenna has had the conversation with Petyr before and with this current scenario on the line could probably ace it! Besides, if anything the man would put any nerves she had down to recent events in the Castle. It was so good to see Kasyn making friends. And if worst comes to worst he still made an ally with Saerya which counts for something. Something tells me his escape is going to go terribly wrong no matter what choice be make here though haha. Hope he's ready to fight if it comes down to it. Does he still have the Tyrell Garrison in his command? Or did they leave? [Fight the Bear] May be a test anyway just to see if he would fight it. I don't think think this trader would give up what is possibly an expensive belonging. So probably a test to see if the crew is serious Ah, it was time he finally gets more connected to the main storyline. Before, he has been this presence in the background and due to Willfred's previous choices, he really doesn't have much yet beyond his suspicions. Mullendore doesn't know that yet, though, because in theory, Kasyn could have known it all by now. When it comes to the Tyrell Garrison, that is actually something I haven't been able to show in the past, as a result of the choices, but they have been replaced by now. After being stationed at Raylansfair for a few month, they have been brought back to Highgarden and replaced by men whom Mern Gardener trusts completely, namely Oakheart soldiers who arrived there with their lord and Donnel Selwyn. Kasyn knows better than to trust anyone who isn't directly from Highgarden though. He at least suspects that several members of the Reach nobility are involved in a conspiracy against the king, so he won't trust any of them. Probably a reason why he is more willing to trust the foreign spy over people from his own country. At least Saerya is, for once, more or less transparent about her allegiance.
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Jan 22, 2019 14:26:06 GMT
The Voting is closed! John is going to fight the bear Jenna is going to distract Petyr Vyrwel Those were definitely the choices I was hoping for! John's next part might be quite something and I cannot wait to write it down. Jenna meanwhile, she is in for a very interesting conversation now. I'm finding myself quite enjoying this idea of Jenna, of all people, trying to outwit Petyr. Top of that, I look forward for the chance to flesh him out a bit better, which is definitely what is going to happen in the next Jenna part. The next part should be out today, at last. I had to do extensive rewrites for it, scrapping nearly everything I had already written and this honestly wasn't a fun thing to do, even if it was necessary. I decided to take Edrick's storyline into a different direction than I planned before, but the moment I started writing it, I knew it was the right way to go. This is going to be an important part and I hope you are going to enjoy it. As said, it will be solely for Edrick, even if I know that Kersea and Ysilla are also kinda in line for a new part. They'll return next time. For now, I hope you are going to enjoy Edrick's part!
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Jan 25, 2019 1:22:06 GMT
Edrick “There's no time to argue!”, Edrick hissed, as he pushed Dante towards the edge. “You go first!” His tone was aggressive and commanding and something in it was apparently enough for the younger knight to comply. He gave him a nod. “Fine”, he spoke. “But you better don't do anything stupid once we're down there!” With this, he began to climb down. Darreth hesitated for a moment, before he smiled thinly. “See you down there”, he mumbled, before he followed after his liege. Edrick waited until both had reached the ground safely. By now, the alarm was openly sounded and he sighed, as he heard heavy footsteps rushing up the stairs. Just as he swung over the edge, he saw the first Ironborn running onto the battlements. In the light of the torch he was carrying, Gawayne's face was clearly visible. “Northlander!”, he roared, as he drew his sword. Edrick remained there, just a second too long, to give him a cocky grin. “Asshole!”, he replied, before he hurried to climb down. The wall was not particularly high, but it was nonetheless several metres before he would reach the ground. Gawayne glared over the edge. “Get them!”, he barked. “I want horses, I want dogs and two dozen men! Do not let them escape!” With this, he raised his sword and Edrick's eyes widened. “Oh, fuck...”, he just managed to say, before Gawayne cut the rope he was clinging to. It was only a short fall, but he landed heavily on his leg and almost instantly, pain flared up in his left foot, a terrible sensation he'd never quite get used to it. Involuntarily, he let out an agonized scream and he sank heavily onto his back Immediately, his companions were by his side. Normund stuck to the trees, just out of sight, but through a veil of pain, Edrick saw Dante and Reymond, who leant down to him. The woman was saying something, though he merely saw her lips moving, as the pain drowned out everything else. Almost gently, the two grabbed him, though he barely noticed it. In this moment, he barely seemed to be involved in their struggle. The pain as they lifted him up, as he placed weight on his left foot, it caused him to snap out of his momentary confusion. “Fuck!”, he roared and surprised by his outburst, Reymond nearly dropped him. Dante remained steadfast by his right side and he gave him a concerned look. “Told you not to do anything stupid”, he hissed. “Can you walk?” Edrick tested his foot and almost instantly, pain flared up. It wasn't quite as unbearable as it was just seconds ago, but something was wrong, probably not broken, but damaged nonetheless. “Not good”, he hissed and the younger knight nodded. “We'll help you then”, he decided. “No one will be left behind” “He'll slow us down”, Alphyn brought up and Edrick barely had the strength to glare at him. The thumping pain in his left foot was a terrible one. Not the first time he had taken such a hit, but this was perhaps the most inconvenient timing possible. He could barely stand on his own, much less walk without pain. Even being dragged along by Dante and Reymond was only barely tolerable. “You fucking serious right now?”, Darreth growled, as he pushed Alphyn forwards. “We're not going to leave him behind” Alphyn had the decency to look almost guilty, as he managed a nod. “Fine then”, he agreed. “But I'd rather not get caught. You got a duty, but I got mine, to my family first and foremost” “If we get caught, I'd rather die fighting than be brought back to the castle”, Jorid hissed, as they moved through the underbrush as swiftly as possible. Normund had gotten rid of his torch by now and the only thing that helped with keeping them together in this night was the hushed whisper with which they communicated, as well as the hint of their shadows, visible in the darkness. Edrick had no idea what way the Riverlander was taking, but he trusted in him. This could hardly be the first time he'd be doing this, right? “Agreed”, Reymond spoke and her support seemed to surprise Jorid. She sighed. “I won't be sent home to Bear Island”, she growled and for a second, there was a vicious defiance in her words. “Not after what happened” She was quiet after that, but Edrick needed to talk about something, to distract him from the terrible pain in his foot. “What did happen, mylady?” “Really now?”, Alphyn asked. “You're going to have this talk right now?” He was on the edge and Edrick could not blame him. In fact, he felt the same, being dragged through a dark forest. Any time, he placed weight on his left foot, even if it was merely accidental, he had to suppress the urge to scream loudly, something that would have undoubtedly alerted the Ironborn. As it was, they hadn't caught up to them and if they'd stay together, there was a chance all of them would get out of this alive. Talking helped with distracting him and that was all he needed right now. If he'd focus on the pain, just for a moment, he was not sure if he'd be able to keep running. As such, he gave Reymond a nod and the woman sighed. “I am several years older than my brother”, she spoke. “And before my birth, my parents had been married for almost a decade. It didn't seem they could conceive a child, so for years, I was their miracle. They never thought I'd get a brother and as such, I was the heiress to Bear Island for half a decade” “And yet two sons followed”, Dante brought up. “Malina talked about it once. Jorn and Dervan” Reymond smiled thinly. “Dervon”, she corrected him. “But he... he's the youngest. Jorn's birth was when things changed. Well, not immediately. He was a sickly boy. Not cut for the cold weather at home. The first ten years of his life, he was constantly ill. Honestly, nobody expected him to pull through” “What changed?”, Edrick said and the rest of his sentence was a pained whisper, as he placed too much of his weight onto his foot. They were walking down a forested hill by now and it didn't exactly make things easier. Even on good days, a sprained ankle was hardly what he wanted. And he hated to admit it, it would set them back, even should they get out of here. “Dervon”, Reymond said. “My youngest brother... I'm going to be honest with you, he shouldn't be alive. I have heard of it before. Old women giving birth... but my mother, she was over forty years old. That's when people start thinking about death, not about new life” She smiled, though Edrick spotted a barely concealed anger behind the calm expression. “After he was born, Jorn recovered. It was a miracle, both of it. He became perhaps not the warrior my father wanted, but he became a worthy heir” “You've been sixteen years old by then”, Edrick deduced and she nodded. “Try to tell that to a girl of sixteen years”, she mumbled. “One who never knew anything but fighting, one who was groomed to rule. Tell her that she has to step down. That she has to learn how to be a lady, that she has to marry a man she had never met” Alys Boleyn came to mind, as did Dante's cousin, Lady Alisa. Edrick couldn't imagine how it had been for them. Perhaps that was the privilege of a lowborn. His sister had married for love and nobody had ever complained that he was but a humble fisherman. Their life wasn't an easy one, but last time he had seen her, she had been happy. “That was quite the talk, I imagine”, he brought up and Reymond chuckled coldly. “I was an unreasonable child, Ser”, she spoke. “But my father, he was just as unreasonable, probably still is. He is a harsh man to himself, harsher to his wife and harshest to his children” She sighed. “I am not proud of the argument that followed. Wasn't the first time he tried to beat me into submission, every punch followed by a command, followed by an insult”, she spoke. “I insulted him back. We screamed at each other, he tried to hit me, tried to choke me, tried to put me through enough pain that I'd just break and give in” The gaze she gave Dante was almost cold. “Is that what your sister told you about my father?” Dante gulped, before he shook his head. “He is not know for his kindness”, he admitted. “But this? No, it is very much not known” Reymond narrowed her eyes. “Nor do I think any of the high lords would care, would they know about it. There's a reason Jorn didn't stay for long either, why he spent the last eight years at the court of Winterfell instead of at home” “And why you ran away”, Edrick mumbled. Reymond nodded. “As I said, it wasn't the first time he hit me, but it was the first time I hit back. He was a famed warrior in his youth, but I am half his age, half a head taller and probably twice as strong”, she explained. “For a while, I thought he died on that day. Wasn't for a year until a trader told me he recovered” She shrugged, as much as possible with Edrick's arm around her shoulders. “Think of it what you want, but that is the biggest regret I have”, she growled. “Not hitting hard enough” “He never told anyone”, Dante spoke. “Else Malina would have known. The whole North would have known”. This time, Reymond's smirk was almost genuine. “Of course he didn't”, she replied. “They all would have laughed at him, be it Dustin, Bolton or Karstark. The proud Worland Mormont, beaten by his own daughter” She shook her head. “This is the one thing he could never accept”, she added. “Honestly, I wouldn't be surprised if he'd try to make people forget I ever existed and frankly, I'd be fine with that. Not having to be a part of his rotten family, hells, might be the best gift he could ever give me” “Well, what a touching bonding session you got there”, Darreth interjected, though he glanced at Edrick and his expression was dead serious. “How are you feeling, Ser? You're not looking too good” Edrick gave him a nod. His breathing had become more heavy by now and he felt the urgent need to faint. “Have been better”, he admitted and the other man grinned. “Don't you worry”, he spoke, as he pointed down the hill. In the distance, Edrick could hear the river. “I think we've made it” As if the world tried to prove him wrong, a loud horn was sounded in the distance. Normund spun around, placing a finger on his lips. “Down”, he hissed and they complied. Edrick's vision flickered as Dante and Reymond dragged him to the ground. For a moment, everything spun and he had to clench his fists just to force himself to remain awake. Riders in the distance, several, but it was impossible to tell just how many exactly. Edrick blinked rapidly, to get rid of the dizzy feeling that threatened to overcome him. “This way”, Normund whispered and he began to crawl. Edrick sighed, though at the very least, he didn't have to run anymore. Still on all fours, Edrick moved forwards, the others behind him. Normund crouched through the underbrush, glancing around, his gaze wandering through the darkness. But there was light in the distance, where the water was and as Edrick got past a particularly thick branch, he could see a small boat, just large enough to have a single, illuminated cabin. Normund sighed, as he rose from the ground. “Well then, my friends”, he said. “I think it is time for you to meet the Riverborn” He hesitated, just for a moment, glancing over his shoulder. Then, he closed his eyes, took a deep breath and stepped out of the underbrush. He approached the boat and with the help of Dante and Reymond, Edrick managed to get back on his feet. “We made it...”, he mumbled, almost in disbelief and as he looked around, the moonlight revealed that his companions felt similarly baffled. Jorid, however, remained on guard. “I don't think this is over”, he growled. “Not before we have left this cursed land” He shook his head. “At the very least they won't get me alive” “Me neither”, Reymond assured him, as they stumbled towards the boat. Edrick remained behind a bit and so did Alphyn. The Frostborn knight frowned, as he glanced into his direction. “Hey, so...”, he mumbled. “How are you doing?” He sighed. “Scratch that”, he cut himself off. “I've been wrong, alright. Had it been up to me, we would have left you at the castle instead of dragging you here, but it seems they haven't caught up to us yet” He paused again. “I... what I mean to say is, I made a mistake” “We all made mistakes before”, Edrick assured him, even if deep down he was angry. He had been a soldier before becoming a knight and this had given him a wholly different mindset, when compared to the highborn Alphyn. Had their roles been reveresed, he would have carried him by himself if necessary. Nobody deserved to be left behind. But this was not a time for grudges. They had different priorities and he could understand this much at least. “So, we're good?”, Alphyn asked and to this, Edrick shook his head. “Not good”, he clarified. “But good enough. We won't split up over this, you have my word” Alphyn sighed. “I can live with that”, he replied. “As long as our journey continues to lead us south. Say... where will we go from here? Viveka won't share her knowledge now, that much is for certain” “If she ever had any knowledge at all”, Edrick brought up. “We have nothing but her word. An Ironborn's word and we know how much that is worth” He shrugged. “She treated us decent, but the same cannot be said for her garrison”, he stated. “A shame I won't get to wrap my hands around that bastard Gawayne's throat and choke the life right out of him” “We agree on that”, Alphyn assured him, as they reached the boat. Normund had stopped there and as he turned around, Edrick could see that the young man seemed shaken by something. In this moment, a loud noise in the water caused him to tense up. Just for a second though and it was likely nothing but a large fish, but it cut through the darkness. As he looked back at Normund, he saw how nervous the young man was. “So, we're here”, he growled. “Where is the Riverborn?” Normund clenched his fists and closed his eyes. As he opened them again, Edrick spotted the hint of tears. It was in this moment that he realized something was wrong. He grabbed Dante's shoulder. “We're in trouble”, he whispered, as he glanced around. He didn't hear the riders anymore and he couldn 't see anyone around them. And yet, Normund's reaction was odd, concerning even. He knew something was off. “The Riverborn...”, Normund mumbled. “That... that would be me” He spread his arms, managing a fake smile and this time, Dante took a step back. “Oh damn...”, he mumbled. Not everyone seemed to have come to the same conclusion. Jorid in particular was taken aback by Normund's revelation. “You?”, he asked. He managed a chuckle of disbelief. “No offence, but... you?” “I didn't know if I could trust you”, Normund replied. “So I had to keep my identity a secret until now. I'm sorry for misleading you, my friends, but this is the truth. The Riverborn stands in front of you” His smile was only barely more convincing and Darreth clenched his fists. “What the fuck is going on?”, he growled. “That can't be right” “I know it might be hard to believe...”, Normund began and Jorid nodded. “Damn yeah”, he spat. “That is hardly the dramatic reveal I expected. You're the Riverborn? That dreaded outlaw leader, the one who is always a step ahead of the Ironborn in the region? Maybe I just... don't know, I expected someone more impressive” “Took the words right out of my mouth”, a familiar voice growled behind them and in this moment, Edrick realized what Normund had noticed. They were by no means all alone. From the underbrush came another figure and even before the moonlight revealed his features, Edrick recognized Gawayne. The Ironborn casually held a crossbow in one hand and a horn in the other. The moment he stepped into the light, he placed it at his lips and blew it, producing a single, loud tone. “Personally, I would have expected someone taller”, he spoke. “A seasoned warrior, a man who can go toe to toe with every single one of my Ironborn” He shrugged. “Or perhaps this is quite fitting. You're no legendary outlaw, Tavorch, just a pathetic bitch, as disappointing as everything in this damn kingdom” Lowering the horn, a thin, smug smirk appeared on his face, as he pointed the crossbow at them. “First to move won't make it back to the castle alive”, he hissed. “That is a promise” “You followed us...”, Edrick growled, but he, like all of his companions, hesitated to charge at the lone Ironborn. The crossbow in his hands was not to be underestimated. Even Jorid, who had previously sounded so fearless, was holding back. And he knew this. It was one thing to talk about dying, but few dared to be brave when a man with a crossbow stood in front of them. Edrick himself had survived too many battles to be reckless like that. He had a mission, but more than that, he had no intention of dying here today. Briefly, he glanced over his shoulder, at Normund, hoping the boy had any sort of a plan. But there he was, the Riverborn, nearly crapping his pants because a single Ironborn with a crossbow threatened him. “We outnumber you”, Dante spoke. “Why don't you just lower the weapon and walk away?” Gawayne raised an eyebrow, before he let out a chuckle. In the distance, Edrick could now hear a second horn sound, followed by the barking of dogs. “You have maybe a minute at most”, he replied. “I'll kill the first to attack me and I'm pretty positive I can hold the rest of you off” He shrugged. “You're unarmed, unarmoured and you're Northerners. You want to know how many of your kind I killed?” “Not really, no”, Edrick replied. “But I still owe you, Ironborn. The back, the foot... if you turn around now, we're even. But I swear, by the old gods and the new and your false sea demon, if you go through with this, I am going to make you bleed. This won't take a good end for you if you don't let us go right now” As expected, Gawayne seemed thoroughly unimpressed. It was worth a shot, but Edrick had to admit, their chance at getting through this was slim and it got slimmer with every passing moment. “Bold words for a dead man. You can hardly stand, I see how much pain you're in”, Gawayne hissed. “Perhaps I should shoot you right now. End your misery. Say you resisted” He gave him a wink. “Come on, do me the favour”, he added. “Would be a first though. Not as if your arrival here did me any good. Perhaps bringing you all back will redeem me in Viveka's eyes. Feared she'd get soft at you, but I can guarantee, this time she won't be so gentle. The lowborn scum, you'll be worked to death in the mines, getting stone for Old Harren's castle. The rest, we'll ransom you and get filthy rich. I bet the Mormont girl is worth the most” “Over my dead body!”, Reymond barked and Gawayne chuckled. “Wouldn't be much of a loss for the world, you ugly broad”, he muttered callously. He pointed the crossbow at her, before it wandered back to Edrick. This brief moment was enough for Reymond to gasp. And yet, Edrick was certain she would fight. Wether she'd survive it or die, he did not know, but he had no doubt she would do her best to resist her capturers. Perhaps that was the way to go. Him, her, Jorid, maybe Normund... they had a chance to overpower him. “So, what's it going to be?”, Gawayne asked. “Would you all kindly do me the favour and kneel? Get down, kiss the dirt and thank me for taking you in alive” He raised one arm, though the other still held the crossbow. In the distance, the barking of dogs became louder and Edrick was able to see torches. Even if they would overpower Gawayne, an escape became unlikely. But perhaps going down fighting would still be better than counting on Viveka Codd's mercy “Or come at me and let us end this. All I need to kill you is an excuse”, Gawayne continued. “Trust me, you northern oaf, I'm counting on you to make the right decision” [Surrender] [Fight the Ironborn]
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Post by edinosaur22 on Jan 25, 2019 3:56:06 GMT
[Fight the Ironborn] We don't know who could get killed, but it will be worth it, maybe, but after this there's no way Viveka will let them off physically unharmed.
Jeez, no wonder Reymond and Jorn are away from Bear Island. It makes the Irony that his descendants who rule Bear Island are women all the more fitting.
Not surprised Normund is the Riverborn
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Post by LiquidChicagoTed on Jan 25, 2019 16:41:05 GMT
[Fight the Ironborn] We don't know who could get killed, but it will be worth it, maybe, but after this there's no way Viveka will let them off physically unharmed. Jeez, no wonder Reymond and Jorn are away from Bear Island. It makes the Irony that his descendants who rule Bear Island are women all the more fitting. Not surprised Normund is the Riverborn Oh yes, Worland Mormont is definitely quite something. Of course, his negative opinion on women is not exactly a rarity in Westeros, but even when he had no choice but to have Reymond as his heiress, he raised her like a boy (which explains the name and some of her habits) until Jorn pulled through his sickly childhood. In these regards, he is notably harsher than the majority of Westerosi and with this and Jorn's preference to remain away from home, it can be assumed he is brutal towards his children, not just the one time Reymond hit back and nearly killed him. He will appear eventually, with Reymond's account and maybe some mentions by Jorn giving you a better idea what to expect of him. There is definitely an irony in this though and would Worland learn that Bear Island is ruled by women in a couple hundred years, well, he would be deeply disappointed in his descendants. Well, Edrick and Co. have been surprised, this much I can say, mostly because Normund is pretty much the last person who comes to mind when thinking about a cunning and resourceful outlaw who single-handedly cripples the Ironborn rule in the region. It definitely seems he is more capable than he has shown so far (or has capable supporters), but Edrick and his companions are genuinely a bit underwhelmed by this reveal. For certain, Viveka will also be a bit underwhelmed, but on the other hand, it means she had the Riverborn right in front of her this entire time.
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