The Perilous Forest

Jan 9, 2023 2:43 am

My most loyal Knight, Sir I, your friend and sovereign do beseech you to travel on the King's Road from Camelot north through the Perlious Forest. On the seventh day after the Feast of St. Levins, be at the crossroads where there stands a marble statue of a forgotten roman, three days north of Camelot. There you will meet your other boon companions, and my servant, who shall review your task.

Friend, I trust you will take this on faith. I would explain more if it was safe to do so.

Arthur, King of the Britons.

The letter found each of you, delivered by a page with Camelot's crest. Perhaps you were easy to find, near Camelot, or perhaps you were farther away. The letter finds you with time to make the journey.

Sometime later, after journeying...

While questing for adventure, you have encountered several other knights. You are all at a crossroads deep in the heart of the Perilous Forest. The Perilous Forest is a eerie, dangerous place filled with outlaws and horrible monsters.

The laws of courtesy require that you introduce yourselves to each other. Please describe yourself, and your journey north at your King's command.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Jan 9, 2023 3:20 am

The Perilous Forest

Gareth was in his cups in a brothel where he had spent much of his time lately. He went through bouts of feeling useless and the adoration heaped upon him from the local whores, fake or not, was the much-needed panacea he craved.

Spoiled as a child he sought recognition in many ways. On this particular day, he realized that the dream of his name being uttered on every fair maiden's lips was progressing much slower than he had hoped. Then came the auspicious letter.

Sitting up far too quickly, a bout of nausea came and fortunately left. His companion was mercifully gone and his purse was not. How the letter arrived laying as it was on the edge of the bed he didn't know, nor did he care as he hungrily tore it open and read it.

This was it! This was his chance! He was sure of it as he hastily dressed, splashed water on his handsome face, buttoned his expensive shirt and breeches, shoved his feet into his boots, and saw to gathering supplies for the trek.

Later as he arrived at the crossroads wondering if the group of knights gathered there had been waiting for him, he greeted them in a friendly and cautious manner but they would have to earn his trust.

"T'is a good day to show our devotion to our king, is it not? I am Sir Gareth Heath and I am very honored to meet you all."

Last edited January 9, 2023 4:01 am

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jan 9, 2023 6:58 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan was glad for the invitation as well, for it kept his mind off of the unfolding drama at the castle in Glengrave, where his older brother laid on this deathbed. For two years now, Willem had laid in that state, clinging to life, unable to sire or even name an heir. The crows were circling, and with no son ready to take up the mantle of Lord Glengrave, Wolstan's ambitious and greedy uncle loomed, ready to take the title and the lands that had been denied him as he rotted in a French prison, years ago.

A letter proposing a solution to the dilemma was tucked into the burly, middle-aged knight's belongings, one that had been penned by no less than Lady Glengrave herself. Arthur's letter was one that Sir Wolstan found far easier to bear, and so it was to a crossroads three days north of Camelot that the man traveled, alone, through the Perilous Forest. His last squire was now a knight himself, and Wolstan had not yet seen to replacing him. No, easier to serve the King than return to his ancestral home and look into the eyes of the woman he had always loved, and who now suddenly was calling for him. Easier to put that from his mind and nod at the handsome young knight who had just greeted him.

"Hail, Sir Gareth Heath. I am Sir Wolston of Glengrave. Summoned too by his Majesty in Camelot. My liege is Lord Glengrave -- Willem, my brother, but I oft raise my shield and sword for the King, as I do now."

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jan 9, 2023 4:00 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Sir Gareth Heath and Sir Wolston of Glengrave, it is a pleasure to be called here to your company for service to our King. I am Sir Gregor Gildon. I look forward to offering my hand of service to the task before us, as I was summoned by letter and pulled from the less glorious duty of overseeing the training of the guards of my lord's keep. I welcome this call to honorable adventure with champions of merit such as yourselves."

kwll

Jan 9, 2023 5:57 pm

The Perilous Forest

Impeccably dressed and prepared, cautious in every aspect of his travel but losing no time on the road, Sir Wilfred was the first to arrive at the crossroad, of course. Or so he thought. There were already three knights, no less, waiting there: one quite old, one with a shifty demeanor, and one difficult to decipher at first glance.

He thought he had made haste, though, hurrying to the meeting point as soon as he got the letter. How could it be otherwise? He had been waiting for the longer time (from his evaluation at least) to prove himself as a knight, praying as much as he could, but finding no task challenging enough to make a good enough name for himself.

However, not wanting to look unpleasant, he smiles at his new found companions and says: "Well met, fellow knights! My name is sir Wilfred, and I look forward to our fellowship. The Lord and our king obviously gathered us here, let us see for what purpose."

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jan 9, 2023 8:32 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth responds, "Well met Sir Wilfred. I'm sure the purpose will be swiftly revealed. Looking forward to our fellowship." He gives a bowing nod.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Jan 10, 2023 1:04 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

I award to Sir Wolstan of Glengrave 1000 Fame. This is mainly to explore the Fame mechanic, and since he has volunteered to be the old man of the group without hope of reward, it's natural to be him.

You have each heard of the others, to some extent. A story hear or there, although mainly just a reference that you recall. Sir Wolstan of Glengrave the other three have heard of, even if it takes a moment to put the stories together. If anyone is to be given deference, or a leadership role in the group, it would be him.

OOC:

@harrigan What story would the others have heard about Sir Wolstan's prowess in knightly pursuits?

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jan 10, 2023 9:08 am

The Perilous Forest

"Sir Gregor, Sir Wilfred, this is a glad meeting," Wolstan says, using his right hand to show that he wasn't hiding a weapon beneath his cloak. It's a traditional greeting, as would be raising his visor so they could see his face -- were he wearing his greathelm. But he's not, and his smile is plain on his face. "We need only wait now for King Arthur's agent, who will I am sure be along presently."

Wolstan was a name they all knew. A knight who won a tourney in his youth, and who hoped for the hand of the host's daughter in marriage. He was wearing her favor when he bested Sir Ector the Red, the towering favorite to win the melee and the tournament. Wolstan had smashed the other knight's nose flat with a heavy blow from his mace; the same blow had split the other man's helm and knocked it from his head. The two had been bitter foes ever since. The story ended in tragedy for Wolstan, of course. It was his brother who married the beautiful Amelia, making her the Lady of Glengrave and Wolstan's sister in law. It had been the girl's father who'd seen fit to pass by the lesser, younger knight for his landed brother -- securing a better alliance for his house.

Who could blame the man? Not Wolstan. He knew the laws and customs of the land, and instead never took a wife. To avoid his homestead, he acted a hedge knight for years, though his brother's house was always open to him.

Dismounting, the knight set about caring for his horse. Yes, surely the agent would come along at any time now...

kwll

Jan 10, 2023 1:52 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred dismounts as well, bows to all the other knights acknowledging their name one by one. He pauses when saluting Wolstan: "Great meeting such a famous character in the flesh. It is good to finally put a face behind a name. And, for sure, our King's agent will be present soon enough."

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Jan 10, 2023 4:31 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth knew it was time to hang up his life of drunken debauchery and get back to being the man he knew he really was. His behavior had been the result of his lady love running off with a squire. He had been drowning his pain in a small non-descript village where no one would know him except that someone obviously did or else how would the note have found him? Somebody must have been looking out for him and for that he was grateful and it's why he had left a note of thanks on the rumpled bed for the owner of the establishment where he had been laying low in the hopes that it would make its way to the right person.

Looking over the group he could see that he was in good company and he resolved to be the best he could be in his quest for the king as he said each knight's name and nodded a greeting to each in turn. He was particularly impressed to meet Sir Wolstan whose exploits were known throughout the land.

"I am indeed honored to meet you Sir Wolstan. I look forward to our exploits together, all of us, for the king! "

For his part, he was known back home as an adept fighter and horseman who had proven himself admirably when his noble father's lands were attacked by a rebel band of outlaws. He had equipped himself exceedingly well and was told that he had a bright future ahead until his heartbreak and fall from grace. He did not plan to let this opportunity slip between his fingers.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jan 11, 2023 1:22 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth says to Sir Wolston with a bow, "It is certainly an honor to be called to your company Sir Wolston. I look forward to hearing from our King's agent what task he has for us."

His thoughts then go into the far reaches of his memory trying to recall being instructed (by the real Sir Gareth) about any shared exploits with Sir Wolston that he should remember at this moment and praise. He cannot...and inwardly prays there are none.

Last edited January 11, 2023 1:24 am

King Arthur

Qralloq

Jan 11, 2023 2:58 am

The Perilous Forest

You're about to further praise each other when a sound catches your ears. A scream, too high pitched for anything but a maiden or young boy. West, on the road that leads from the crossroad on that direction. You listen a moment more. A shout, this one in anger.

There is some mischief afoot! Do you wait where your king sent you, or Investigate?

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jan 11, 2023 3:12 pm

The Perilous Forest

"My gallant companions, something sounds foul. We must explore the source. If my ears do not fool me, a lady or child is in distress!"

kwll

Jan 11, 2023 3:22 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred certainly does not want to be the one who stayed behind. After looking at his companions in turn, he nods at Sir Gregor Gildon, jumps on his horse and says: "Let's go." Then he rides towards the shouting.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jan 12, 2023 4:21 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan mounts his horse and spurs it to action as well. "Be quick but be wary, Sir Gregor!" he calls to the knight ahead of him as he pulls on his helmet and lowers his visor. The man's sword comes out next, and then he rides!

Last edited January 12, 2023 5:38 pm

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jan 12, 2023 4:28 am

The Perilous Forest

"I value the great fortune of your counsel, Sir Wolstan!" Gregor exclaims over the knights' clatter of horses and armour as he rides forward.

Last edited January 12, 2023 4:30 am

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Jan 12, 2023 5:10 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth deliberately waits to see what the others do. In situations such as these, his actions are often measured and thoughtful. That's not to say he doesn't act impetuously at times but this was not one of those moments. He was only just getting to know the others who may be watching his back and he in turn would be watching theirs.

With the sound of his helmet visor clanking into place followed by the scrape of his trusty sword sliding up from its sheath, he charges forward with the others.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Jan 13, 2023 4:52 am

The Perilous Forest

The Knights make a mad dash through the forest path, and quickly see a man-at-arms defending himself against a sextet of ruffians. The man wears boiled leather armor, cheap enough but sturdy. His gear and bearing tell you he is experienced, not a knight but a trusted retainer to some minor Lord.

The ruffians are peasants, dressed in rags and wielding homemade implements. They drive their crude spears at him, blood flowing with every second, he blocks one but every second strike finds its mark.

Behind the man-at-arms, a maid in a soiled dress swoons. This is no princess, but no scullery maid either. Something in between, a handmaiden perhaps, to a noble woman?

When the ruffians see you ride hard toward them, they scatter.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jan 13, 2023 5:07 am

The Perilous Forest

As the ruffians disperse, Sir Gregor calls to Sir Wolston, "It appears we were shrewd to be quick to the scene. Yet we have arrived to a peculiar state of affairs." He steers closer to the couple and brings his horse to a halt examining their demeanor.

Last edited January 13, 2023 5:10 am

kwll

Jan 13, 2023 4:16 pm

The Perilous Forest

Addressing the man, Sir Wilfred says: "Well, it seems we put an end to the rather dire unpleasantries going your way. What are you doing in these parts, and who is this young maiden going with you?". The knight is genuinely curious.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Jan 13, 2023 10:08 pm

The Perilous Forest

Jumping from his horse, sheathing his sword as he steps lively toward the woman, Sir Gareth kneels down beside her as he cradles her head. Saving fair maidens is exactly how he pictures himself being the gallant knight.

"My good man, what happened here?"

King Arthur

Qralloq

Jan 14, 2023 2:34 am

The Perilous Forest

The man-at-arms is about to answer Sir Wilfred, when he sees Sir Gareth dishorse and intercedes himself gracefully between Sir Gareth and the maiden. "Our thanks, good sir knights. Those were the Earl's men, and they were up to no good, I dare say. Unthinkable, their plans."

The maid stands up, shivering with fright. "Oh, it's all right, Fenwick, these are King Arthur's men. You must be Sirs Wolstan, Gareth, Wilfred and Gregor, though I know not which of you is which, I apologize." She curtseys deeply as appropriate for a lady of no standing before such august passersby.

Fenwick sheathes his own sword and bows. "My lords."

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jan 14, 2023 3:12 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gregor is relieved to find that the maid is in now good spirits and that her man-at-arms was indeed her protector. "It's good to find you safe here, my lady, at the hand of this sturdy man-at-arms who kept the Earl's men at bay." He says Earls men with a question in his tone. "It seems we were expected by you." He then addresses the man and the woman both, "Is it Fenwick sir? And my lady, what is your name? "

Last edited January 14, 2023 3:13 am

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jan 14, 2023 5:16 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan comes to the scene at a thunderous pace, and when he sees the others have peeled off to shield and guard the on-foot knight and the lady, he gives chase briefly to the ruffians. Only when he's sure they're gone does he have his mount circle the area once, then trot to a stop near his fellows.

"Sir Wolstan, of Glengrave," he says from his horseback, lifting his visor so that they may see his face. "And to which Earl do these curs belong, pray-tell?"

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Jan 14, 2023 3:37 pm

The Perilous Forest

"This does not speak well of this earl, to have men such as those." Glancing at the woman to make sure that she is alright he continues.

"I am Sir Gareth Heath. We were on our way to discharge some business for the king when we heard the commotion here and came to investigate."

Maid Maude

Qralloq

Jan 14, 2023 5:42 pm

The Perilous Forest

Maid Maude

"Maude, sir knight," she says, blushing furiously, and curtseying once more.

The man-at-arms, Fenwick, steps back, giving you all space, what with your horses and the path. He turns (not entirely, his back isn't to you), and watches the forest.

The maid continues. "Earl Parwick, sir knight," she says with a curtsey once more to Sir Wolstan. "He has been raising taxes on the people, and ruffians have been harassing travellers. Only, I discovered something by chance. Earl Parwick is paying the bandits!"

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jan 15, 2023 6:05 am

The Perilous Forest

"Scandalous!" Wolstan says from on high as his charger nickers, a mailed hand pating its neck. "And well met, Lady Maude. And Goodman Fenwick, I believe I heard? What reason might Earl Parwick have to do such a thing?" He had an inkling, but wanted to keep the idea to himself and hear what others had to sat on the subject first.

After she answer, or the man-at-arms does, Sir Wolstan adds, "By chance were the two of you coming to meet us, yonder? We were gathered at the meeting place when we heard your cries."

Maid Maude

Qralloq

Jan 15, 2023 6:33 pm

The Perilous Forest

Maid Maude

"Yes, my lord, at the crossroads. An old man beseeched me to deliver an account of what I saw to four knights who would meet me just there."

She wipes her brow, her breath short from the run and the fright. "Fenwick offered to escort me from the Earl's castle, m'lord, but neither of us thought we would run into trouble, not like this!"

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Jan 16, 2023 3:31 am

The Perilous Forest

"Well we are here now and you are safe. It seems a visit to this Earl is in order." Gareth looks to his fellow knights for affirmation. "If you don't mind me asking, Lady Maude. What is your relationship to the Earl and why would he wish you harm?"

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jan 16, 2023 6:30 am

The Perilous Forest

Before Sir Gareth posed his last question to Maid Maude, Sir Gregor nodded in agreed to the proposition of visiting the Earl. Then with Gareth's question, Gregor patiently waits for Maid Maude's answer.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jan 16, 2023 8:44 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan listens carefully to the lady's answer, and he keeps an eye on her protector while she provides it. He's hoping it contains some kernel or clue about what's going on -- clearly the Duke is up to no good... but to what end?

kwll

Jan 16, 2023 12:34 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred waits for the answer as well, but will lose not time to ask who the old man mentioned by Lady Maude is.

Last edited January 17, 2023 4:50 pm

Maid Maude

Qralloq

Jan 17, 2023 12:20 am

The Perilous Forest

Maid Maude

Maude is very nervous about the proposed visit to the Earl, but wouldn't think to offer advice. "Oh sirs, you are so brave. I am a handmaiden to the Earl's ... mistress. She will have me flogged when I return, I'm certain, I've been gone for near a day. Would it have been terrible of me to wish I had found you on the outskirts of Camelot rather than so close to home?"

She ceases rambling and realizes she probably didn't answer Sir Gareth's question. "I don't suppose the Earl intends me any harm, good sir. I don't suspect that he knows I heard him with that man, John Alistair, and their agreement for Mr. Alistair to pay bandits to assault travellers. They didn't see me in the closet, you see, and I hid there until they both left. The bag of coins sounded heavy, sirs, and I imagine many of those coins are now in the hands of blaggards and thugs." She makes a sign of the cross.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jan 17, 2023 4:06 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wolstan nods and vocalizes a few affirmational half-utterances as the maid explains. "Where are you from?" he says to the distraught woman. "Could you return to your father's estates or property while we look in on this business with the Earl and his plot? Accompany us and there will be no flogging, my lady, but you would be best not in the middle of this."

Thinking a moment, he turns stiffly to his armored fellows. "Or... we could make that your sojourn was meant to be a short one, but was interrupted and delayed by those curs that just escaped. Only our arriving saved you from a foul fate. The truth, as it were! Just with no mention of the business we were to conduct."

kwll

Jan 17, 2023 4:55 pm

The Perilous Forest

"You mentioned an old man, earlier, who asked you to be here. Did you know him? Would you be able to describe him?" asks Sir Wilfred, curious.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jan 17, 2023 5:05 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth Gregor listens to his fellow knights' questions and Maid Maude's responses. Trying to piece together the situation in his mind. He is willing to accompany the party to visit the Earl if that is the direction they take.

He also nodded in agreement to Sir Wolstan's proposal about leaving out Maid Maude's intentions if they speak with the Earl.

Last edited January 17, 2023 6:32 pm

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Jan 17, 2023 5:44 pm

The Perilous Forest

What a horrible man this earl must be, Sir Gareth thinks as he awaits the answer to Sir Wilfred's question. Perhaps this old man was close to the earl and appalled by the man's behavior and perhaps his duplicitous nature as well and therefore felt the need to get the word out.

Last edited January 23, 2023 5:46 pm

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jan 17, 2023 6:32 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

OOOP! I apparently either got confused who I am. Or am playing Sir Gregor to a tee and he's trying to steal an identity...again! LOL!! My deepest apologies to Sir Gareth, I certainly didn't intent to speak for him. I will edit that.

Windyridge

Jan 17, 2023 7:13 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

No worries. Easy to get confused!

😁

Maid Maude

Qralloq

Jan 18, 2023 2:24 am

The Perilous Forest

Maid Maude

To Sir Wolstan, she replies, still flustered at all this knightly attention, "I'm no lady, sir knight, only a merchant's daughter. Father paid handsomely to have me placed in the Earl's castle. A rich life, and I had hoped to meet a soldier's eye, and," she splutters off, half looking, not looking at the man-at-arms Fenwick, who's head is turned away. Still his back stiffens when he hears her words.

She shakes her head. "You're too kind, sir. I will do whatever you say, of course."

When Wilfred asks about the old man, she says only, "I did not know him, but he seemed a wise sort. He was spritely enough, with a white beard as long as his belly." She thinks on it. "Bushy eyebrows, but his eyes were piercing, and blue like the winter sky. It seemed like stars fell behind them."

There is only one man who matches that description. The High King's advisor, Merlin.

kwll

Jan 18, 2023 3:36 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred stays speechless for a few seconds, thinking about the implications of what the handmaiden just said. Then he turns to his companions and says: "So, what will it be? I am keen to try the cunning plan of Sir Wolstan, but I will of course bend to the will Maid Maude." He says the last words looking at the girl, in a friendly and open manner.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jan 18, 2023 3:49 pm

The Perilous Forest

"I say my good knights, let us visit this earl and inform him of our encounter with brigands in his lands. I am curious to hear his reply. From the information Maid Maude has sheared with us---on the instruction of our King's trusted counsel Merlin---it sounds like his response may not be forthcoming and will warrant our further investigation in to matters, particularly into the dealings of Mr. Alistair. Let's engage Sir Wolston's plan."

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jan 19, 2023 2:22 am

The Perilous Forest

"To the Earl's estates!" Wolstan says with zeal, but before the four men take off at a gallop, there is of course the matter of the maid and her hopeful suitor. To that man, the burly knight speaks as he dismounts.

"Fenwick, you've sworn Maid Maude's protection, and a fine job you've done, holding those curs at bay. What say you now if I offer my horse to the good woman? So that she may ride, rather than walk, back to the castle?"

OOC:

If he's agreeable, Wolstan will help her up to ride side-saddle, and will lead his horse from the front, walking.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Jan 19, 2023 2:48 pm

The Perilous Forest

Fenwick wonders if she is so fine a lady as to deserve that special treatment, but she is fine to his eyes. "It is a kindness, Sir, and it is not my place to object."

He looks at the maid, and asks her quietly, "Back to the castle Maude, or onwards farther. I'm at your service."

Maid Maude

"Thank you, Fenwick, you've saved me from an awful fright. Let us return with these good men. This nightmare may be over at last!"

You press on and by near to sunset are passing through croppers fields. Evening traffic of people about their chores, gathering sheep for watering, or getting the last of the weeding done in the waning light. Most turn and watch you a moment, important folk afoot -- they likely wonder if you're a knight they've heard stories of.

You pass beyond a copse and see your first glimpse of the castle. Perched upon a hill, it commands a view of the lowlands around it like a shepherd tending a flock. Or, if the stories you're hearing are true, a wolf.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Jan 19, 2023 10:34 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth raises his eyebrows at the generosity of Sir Wolstan. He has to admit to himself that he probably would never have made such a generous offer and thus he admires the knight for that. Sir Gareth's horse was far too precious to offer to an unknown maid no matter how pretty.

As the castle came into view, Gareth admired the pastoral scene and the splendid castle nestled on the hill. But his enjoyment of that was tainted by the idea of the man they sought inside. A man not to be trusted and that cared not at all for the people in his charge.

kwll

Jan 20, 2023 6:01 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred, like his companions, saw many castles in the past. He is not much impressed by this one, but curious about the ways to enter or defend it. He tries to assess what kind of welcome the party is likely to receive when approaching.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jan 21, 2023 7:09 am

The Perilous Forest

Before they are fully in sight of the castle, and of the serfs who live and work in the fields surrounding the place, Sir Wolstan lifts the maid from his horse and remounts -- to make a proper impression.

"Is there anything else we need to know?" the knight asks both Maude and Fenwick, "before we begin to unravel this dark twine? Anything else the man with the white beard said to you?"

OOC:

To the castle, if not.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jan 21, 2023 2:29 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gregor will follow the party to the castle after Maude or Fenwick reply to Sir Wolston.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Jan 21, 2023 8:22 pm

The Perilous Forest

Maid Maude

Maude says, "The Earl has two guests of note. The Abbott of Brown Cloister, a church to the north, and John Alistair, of whom I know little. He's not local, that's for sure." You walk along, Maude riding on Sir Wolstan's horse, and then she adds, "The Earl has become a skinflint. He used to spend more, on furnishings and hosting, but in the past four years, he's slowly become more miserly with his coin."

You continue onwards to the castle, and the gates which stand open vomit a sextet of armed knights. Knight is perhaps too much credit, although the lead may be of the peerage. The other five are likely men-at-arms only, although armed too well for mercenaries or simple soldiers. A dozen pikemen follow, and a steward as well, hastily arranging for the pennons on the two lead pikes to hang properly.

It is a welcoming, befitting your station, or perhaps, just above your station. There is yet, however, no sign of the Earl.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Jan 23, 2023 5:45 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth nods as Maude talks about the earl's guests.

"A skinflint you say? I wonder if he has fallen on hard times and is planning something with the Abbot and this John Alister you mention. Hiring ruffians to steal from others would support this notion as well."

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jan 24, 2023 8:07 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Has Wolstan heard of either of these men, the Abbot or Alistair? Is it typical for us to be welcomed by such a show of arms?

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jan 24, 2023 1:10 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

good question

King Arthur

Qralloq

Jan 25, 2023 12:23 am

The Perilous Forest

The Abbott of Brown Cloister is a man of standing in the local community, but not famed at all. John Alistair is a stranger to all.

You would surmise that this display may serve one of two purposes: either the Earl wants to make a strong and positive impression, or that they know who sent you. For four knights to receive such a welcome for no reason is highly unusual, but not unheard of.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jan 25, 2023 12:56 am

The Perilous Forest

"This is certainly interesting," says Sir Gregor referring to the grandeur of the welcome. "Perhaps we were expected. Well my friends, shall we pass through the gate and make our introductions to the Earl?"

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jan 25, 2023 6:34 am

The Perilous Forest

"Yes, Sir Gregor, we shall do just that," Wolstan says, kicking his horse to motion, making it canter for a time before directing it to slow to a trot.

"Good knights and men!" he calls to them, raising his visor when he is but twenty paces away. "We are four knights from the south in need of supping, resting our horses and our heads. We seek audience with the Earl! Are our standards welcome here?"

kwll

Jan 25, 2023 9:40 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred stays near Sir Wolstan as he speaks, and keeps his eyes open as he looks around at the place and the people around the party. He checks for anything that might look unusual.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Jan 25, 2023 6:47 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth remains ready to unsheath his sword if need be for this welcoming does indeed seem a bit overzealous. His mount senses his rider's readiness to spring and dances in place, tossing his head as the events unfold before them.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Jan 26, 2023 1:47 am

The Perilous Forest

A steward steps out from behind the men and bows lightly, "Come knightly sirs, be you welcome in Castle Parwick. Come, come, your horses will be attended too and stabled. The Earl is attending to a difficult matter, but should be ready to see you in a quarter of an hour, if you'll do your humble servant the honour of forgiving him. Come, you are most welcome." He has all of the manner of a sniveller, but doesn't seem mean spirited about it.

Inside the castle yard, young stable boys will take your mounts and unsaddle them if you wish, if only to groom and feed them. The boys seem eager to please, perhaps hoping that they could become squires! Although, they're too young to be taken seriously.

The steward rubs his hands nervously at the inner doors, waiting for your pleasure.

kwll

Jan 27, 2023 6:06 pm

The Perilous Forest

After what he heard earlier today, Sir Wilfred is a bit suspicious of the steward. However he decides to comply for now. "I am Sir Wilfred, at your service. I didn't immediately catch your name, though?" he asks, while dismounting.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jan 28, 2023 5:57 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan dismounts as well, then gestures to the pair afoot behind them. "We have with us the Maid Maude, and Fenwick, brave man-at-arms. Both were beset by ruffians on the Earl's lands, and are only in good health and spirits now because we knights drove the cravens off. See that their needs are met, good man, and that they are looked after."

Handing the reigns of his horse over to a stableboy, and his weapons (other than his sword) and shield to the armorer, he removes his helmet and adds, "Is this news? That these types plague the wood that is so close to the castle?"

King Arthur

Qralloq

Jan 28, 2023 4:12 pm

The Perilous Forest

The steward rubs his hands together nervously. His response to Sir Wilfred is, "I am Iwan, sir, chamberlain to the Earl of Parwick."

When Wolstan tells of the rescue, he says, "What happy news, I trust the story of how they came to be so far from the castle is an interesting one." The suspicion oozes.

"Please, come sir knights, I will see to your needs first, then attend to Maid Maude and master Fenwick."

He leads you inside, toward the great hall, and there, begs you to sit at a table. "Boy! Bring wine and goblets for these fine gentleman!" A serving boy runs off with the boundless energy of the young.

Maid Maude

Maude waits by the door, uncertain what she will explain. There was a plan, she was sure of it.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jan 28, 2023 6:36 pm

The Perilous Forest

When Gregor gets an opportunity to speak separately to the other knights, he mentions that they should try to keep Maid Maude and Fenwick close at hand in this meeting. They should request the two's presence (and not leave them to be punished somehow out of the knights' sight. The angle could be that the two were the ones attacked by the ruffians and should be present in the meeting. Also, it could said that the ruffian's were responsible for routing the two so far away far away from the castle.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Jan 28, 2023 7:07 pm

The Perilous Forest

Handing his reins off to a stable boy along with his helmet and shield, Sir Gareth follows the others. His first impression of the steward is not a good one. Sir Wolstan's question is clever and the answer he gets from Iwan is not entirely unexpected. He doesn't trust the man or his plans for the maid.

"Where will Maid Maude and Master Fenwick be reposing?"

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jan 29, 2023 7:56 am

The Perilous Forest

"Interesting," Sir Wolstan says to the chamberlain, approaching him, "if one finds desperately fleeing through a wood thought to be under the protection of a nearby castle and Earl to be that. Why are those brigands operating in the open, in the daylight, so close to your walls?"

Then the man smiles and relents -- this is a discussion he will save for the lord of the keep. "But we will discuss this matter with the Earl, his knights, and his master-of-arms. Lead on, good Iwan."

King Arthur

Qralloq

Jan 30, 2023 4:24 am

The Perilous Forest

As you're seated at the table, Iwan makes as if he doesn't hear, but then answers Gareth. "Their quarters, they live here after all. It is on no consequence, sirs, the Earl will insist that they're treated properly."

He almost makes it out before Wolstan asks about the bandits, "They've become more bold. Desperate, they must be. With this report, I'll send men to root them out. It may be our chance to drive them off or see them hang."

The untrustworthy man flees.

A small boy runs back in, balancing a heavy pitcher of watered wine and four goblets in a tray. Her hands one to the first man then pours a measure full, then repeated with the others. He concentrates as if this is a scared duty.

kwll

Jan 30, 2023 3:10 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred looks at the dubious wine and smells it, trying to decide if it is worth drinking or even dangerous. When conversing with Sir Gregor, he agrees with the plan.

After a while he asks to his companions: "What or who are we waiting for exactly?"

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jan 31, 2023 1:59 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan's nose twitches as he raises the goblet and makes to drink from it... but he hesitates and looks at the expectant serving boy. "Run along, boy, we have business to discuss that is not for young ears."

If the lad goes, the knight will lean forward, place his wine back on the table and say, "We await the Earl. But now then. Which of you has some strategy for us to discover whether this wine has been sweetened with an herb that will put us in our sick beds... or our graves?"

OOC:

If the boy won't leave, I think we should consider bribing him or perhaps tricking him into revealing what he knows.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Jan 31, 2023 3:02 am

The Perilous Forest

The boy desperately wants to stay and soak in your eminent ambience, but upon the words, 'run along, boy' he's off like a speeding antelope.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Jan 31, 2023 7:57 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Why I do, Sir Wolsten. Don't drink it! Had you not sent the boy away, he could have tasted it for us. Perhaps it is not too late to call him back if he is not yet too far away?"

Sir Gareth trusted nothing about this place and would not be the first to try it.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Feb 1, 2023 2:33 am

The Perilous Forest

Not very fond of the idea of the boy falling into a trap set for the knights, but also not very convinced the Earl would murder four knights (in his own keep) that were sent by King Arthur himself, Gregor takes a sip and says, "I doubt the Earl would risk poisoning the four of us within in his own walls. Our presense here is known after all."

kwll

Feb 1, 2023 8:31 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred is not very thirsty but he is curious. "Is it good?" he asks Sir Gregor.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Feb 1, 2023 2:48 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Sir Gregor, you make a good point. Still, I hope you won't mind if I observe you for a few moments and I too will echo Sir Wilfred's question. How is it?"

As to Maid Maude, of course, he knew she resided here in the castle but he was curious exactly where that was as he felt she was not safe. The thought had occurred to him to check on her.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Feb 2, 2023 4:33 am

The Perilous Forest

Before too long, the Earl comes into the room. He's a big man, barrel-chested and nearing fifty years of age, but still robust.

Earl Parwick

"My apologies young sir knights, I was in the midst of rather detailed letter and did not wish to interrupt my thoughts. Come, tell me how I can make this slight up to you. Anything in my power to grant."

He sits and the young serving boy runs in with another tray and goblet, and pours the Earl a wine. He holds it up and says, "A toast! To new friends and a fine afternoon."

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Feb 2, 2023 5:24 am

The Perilous Forest

"That boy's an innocent," Wolstan says plainly, still pondering whether to try the wine when Gregor does it first. His voice grows quieter. "If something nefarious is afoot here, there's nothing to gain by poisoning some young page. He might know something, though. Perhaps that's his value to us."

Before the Earl enters, he raises an eyebrow as all three men look at Sir Gregor, awaiting a reaction if one is to come.

"Earl Parwick," the knight says, standing and bowing his head deferentially as the nobleman comes in. "Thank you for receiving us. Think nothing of your delay. And forgive us, but Sir Gareth took some game yesterday that we feasted on, and have sour bellies as a result. No appetite, I'm afraid, for wine or boar or pheasant just yet."

"We have news from the south," the steel-clad warrior says before delivering some faintly interesting tidbits the Earl may well already know. The death of an ancient lord, a marriage binding two houses. "And we wish to carry word and your concerns back to Camelot. What has befallen your lands, Earl? We have seen most troubling sights in yon wood."

Last edited February 2, 2023 5:34 am

kwll

Feb 2, 2023 3:43 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred rejoices internally at his companion's subtlety and finesse in how he addressed the earl. He still keeps the mug of wine in his hand, and will drink a sip or two if he sees Sir Gregor is not affected from drinking it, and the earl does drink it as well.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Feb 2, 2023 8:52 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth also bows his head deferentially listening with great interest to the excuse the earl gives for the delay. Letter indeed.

When Sir Wolstan cleverly makes up the reason for their visit he nods in agreement and decides that he should try and look the part if he is able.

"Yes indeed, very troubling and so close to your castle," he adds to the steel-clad knight's account, never taking his eyes off the earl's face.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Feb 3, 2023 1:10 am

The Perilous Forest

(Possibly) still feeling okay, Gregor adds, "Agreed, it is troubling that servants of yours were routed away from the safety of this castle by brigands abound. Why…where are Maid Maude and Master Fenwick now? They must be present here during this meeting, being it that they were the ones abducted in these lands until our timely intercession drove the perpetrators away. We knights were not able to get a good look at the wrongdoers or question them. The two we rescued surely got a better look."

Last edited February 3, 2023 1:13 am

King Arthur

Qralloq

Feb 3, 2023 3:13 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gregor suffers no ill affects from the wine. Indeed, perhaps it boostens his morale and charm, rather than dulls his wits and energy. The Earl gayfully drinks his own wine poured from the same pitcher. Perhaps he hasn't resorted to poison just yet. Let's see where the conversation leads you.

Earl Parwick

He's troubled by this talk of boar and pheasant. Had he ordered a feast? "Ah, my steward has overreached his station again. The man deserves a sound thrashing. Still, you will be well cared for while you're hear, although the larders are not presently stocked for such a feast as you likely deserve."

Talk moves toward the unpleasantness. "Yes, a terrible business. The peasants seem to complain a lot about bandits, yet they leave my men and tax-collectors alone. I've not taken the matter seriously, truthfully, because of that. However, if they have become so emboldened as to attack armed knights, men of honour and valour, why, what would be next? I'll have them all hunted and hung by week's end, I so swear it!"

Let's drop some coins. How about each of you toss Courtesie with Presence to see how well you interrogate the higher ranking nobleman.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Feb 3, 2023 3:37 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Gregor's attempt to interrogate the earl.

Rolls

Gregor's attempt to interrogate the earl. - (3d2-3)

(222) - 3 = 3

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Feb 3, 2023 6:23 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Courtesy and Presence...

Rolls

Courtesy + Presence - (5d2-5)

(22211) - 5 = 3

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Feb 3, 2023 2:57 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Courtesy with Presence

Rolls

Courtesy with Presence - (4d2-4)

(1221) - 4 = 2

kwll

Feb 5, 2023 1:29 pm

The Perilous Forest

Reacting to the earl's words, Sir Wilfred asks: "And it didn't trouble you that your men were left alone while your subjects were attacked? The trouble makers must have been pretty sure you wouldn't retaliate, if several such attempts were perpetrated over time!"

Rolls

Courtesy with Presence - (6d2-6)

(112112) - 6 = 2

King Arthur

Qralloq

Feb 5, 2023 4:33 pm

The Perilous Forest

The Earl looks troubled by the words, and his anger rises slightly. If not for the calming influence of Gregor and Wolstan, he might be provoked by this interrogation.

"It is only good sense that bandits attack the weak. They are cowards, after all. If they attacked armed men, well that would be foolish of them. If they attacked my factor or my taxcollector, then I would scour the forest and hang them all, regardless of the difficulty. Alas, you're right. These attacks have emboldened them. Still, I have not the men to do a thorough job. I believe the peasants to the north have complained more than others, but those trails are full of lawless men who have long resisted my authority. Now, please tell me, what brings you to my castle, and perhaps we might find joint cause."

He's a little embarrassed about mentioning the lawless men, as if this is a failure on his part and feels that it makes him look weak. However, you're also fairly certain, each of you, that this is a ruse. Does he want you to go to the north country? If so, is he hoping you'd rid him of an old problem, or is it a distraction ?

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Feb 5, 2023 5:37 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gregor "My lord, the task at hand is of course to find a way to protect the weak. Our King Arthur, who summoned us together, would have it no other way. My knight companions here shall contribute ideas on how to to proceed, but it seems to me the best place to start is the source of the trouble. What do you know about these bandits? Is there a leader, a base? Are they known to collude with any parties outside of your land? How do they differ from your ongoing plague of the lawless to the north?"

Last edited February 5, 2023 5:40 pm

kwll

Feb 6, 2023 3:30 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred decides to take a sip of the wine, after all. He is very interested by the answer to Sir Gregor's question.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Feb 6, 2023 10:58 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth is surprised at the boldness of Sir Wilfred's question just though it is, and he watches with great interest as the earl seems to squirm a little. He then nods appreciatively at Sir Gregor's most excellent question. Seeing the others drink the wine and not collapse in a heap on the ground, he does the same but still, his first taste is a tentative one as he enthusiastically awaits the answers.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Feb 7, 2023 3:15 am

The Perilous Forest

Earl Parwick

The Earl listens, and has more wine. When Gregor finishes his questions, Earl Parwick raises his wine. "To the King!" His eyes sparkle with a kind of sharpness. Mentioning King Arthur got his attention.

Once you've each touched lips to your goblets at least, he replies: "They are bandits, no more, or so I suspected. I wish I knew more. When confronted by honourable men such as yourselves, I suddenly wish I'd taken them all more seriously. But I resolve to do better." He bangs his fist on the table as if to seal the oath.

He sort of answered your questions, or acts like he feels that he did. He is either equivocating, or simply, as he claims, unimpressed by the threat of the bandits.

"The freemen to the north refuse to pay taxes, and hunt in my lands. Yet, they know those hills better than any, and easily eluded my attempts to round them up. Their leader is a stout fellow named Veringvox."

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Feb 7, 2023 3:47 am

The Perilous Forest

"Well, based on your situation my Lord Parwick, it seems that some investigation may be warranted here."

Gregor turns to his companions, "What if we were to split? Two of us seek out this Veringvox, or at least question the peasants to the north about the troubles facing them there. While the other two of us question the folks who've experienced trouble closer to this castle. Surely those folks who have had contact with the lawlessness can help us paint a better picture of the problems Lord Parwick faces."

Gregor adds, "I think it would be beneficial if Fenwick and Maid Maude attend the investigation of the knights who stay close, since they have had direct contact with the bandits in this area and their insight could prove useful."

Gregor chooses words in attempt to put the Earl at ease in regards to his feelings on the knights supporting him against his 'lawless enemies', but he doesn't for a moment trust the Earl's account and believes there is a more truthful story to be told in the north and also that the peasants here could easily give a more accurate account of the state of this earldom.

"What say ye my companion knights of King Arthur?"

Last edited February 7, 2023 4:25 am

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Feb 7, 2023 4:33 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan isn’t yet convinced, but he puts on airs, offering no sign to the Earl that he believes lies pour from the man’s mouth like offal from a privy being drained by a gong farmer.

"Why do these men in the north reject your claim?" he adds to the dialog, before finishing with, "Your taxman is out and about? With these bandits harrying your roads? What protection does he have?"

And to Gregor, he nods. "We should confabulate."

OOC:

Sorry to be short. Will be in and out this week, so just trying to pitch $0.02 in.

Last edited February 7, 2023 4:38 am

kwll

Feb 7, 2023 3:04 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred agrees to what his fellow knights said, but reacts. "Confabulate we should. How far are those northern 'freemen'? Maybe we could all go there and interrogate the farmers along the way?" He is afraid of dividing the party into two weaker groups.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Feb 7, 2023 10:01 pm

The Perilous Forest

"I would be happy to seek out Veringvox." Gareth likes the idea of speaking with the villagers as well. We could ask exactly that, Sir Wolstan. Why indeed do they not pay? It could prove to be a most fruitful journey."

He too wonders about the length of the journey to the north.

Last edited February 7, 2023 10:02 pm

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Feb 7, 2023 11:25 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gregor adds, "Yes Sir Wilfred. Excellent idea to ask the villagers along the way as we seek out Veringvox. And as Sir Wolston questioned, there must be some skill to how the Earl's taxman has been able to avoid the bandits' harassment out on the road. We certainly should talk to him too.

I agree, especially if the lands to the north are a far journey from here, that it does make sense for us to stick together. Though, I still feel it would be beneficial for Maid Maude and Master Fenwick to accompany us."

Pretty much convinced the Earl is not going to reveal much more, Gregor again is trying to make the Earl think that the four knights would be dispersing to offer him assistance, but in fact he knows the band will be, instead, dedicated to uncovering the truth.

Last edited February 7, 2023 11:29 pm

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Feb 8, 2023 12:26 pm

The Perilous Forest

As the three knights confer quietly, Sir Wolstan has concerns of the Earl overhearing, so he instead bends Parwick’s ear and tries to lead the man to believe they won’t be staying long, and that they in fact have other business.

"We will do what we can to look into this, Earl," he begins quietly, capturing the man’s attention. "But it may be that you need to double your watch on the roads and add swords to those who protect your taxman and other agents. We have a task set by Arthur — one I cannot discuss — that lies well beyond your borders. We were only intending to pass through your lands, hoping for some hospitality as we went. We will look into these matters for a day, but then we will need to carry on, my Lord."

OOC:

Idea here being to deceive him so that he doesn’t poison us or murder us in our sleep tonight, hoping we’ll just eventually leave him and his plans be, going about our business. I would vote we overnight here and try to find some loose lips in the castle, especially though who might tell us about the raised taxes, about whether he’s been paying Arthur his tithes, and about this John Alstair (sp?). One of us might learn more from the maid, or the mistress she serves, etc.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Feb 8, 2023 6:09 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

I’m up for any plan of action my friends.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Feb 9, 2023 3:30 am

The Perilous Forest

Earl Parwick

"You may ask my taxman yourself, perhaps he knows more than has been passed onto me." The Earl is thoughtful, his eyes taking on a light suspicion, as if wondering why indeed the taxman is unmolested.

"You wish to avail yourself of the maid, and my retainer Fenwick? How unexpected. As to the Maid Maude, she is the handmaiden to a guest in the castle." He thinks on that a moment, and you recall that Maid Maude told you she served the Earl's mistress. The Earl however, can think of no quick reason why your stations would be below his 'guests' rank and privilege. "Done! I will have them made at your disposal, to return here when you're through."

He stretches his arms, "Ahh, if you could see the north slope with the primroses are in bloom, surely there is no finer estates in all of Britain. There is even a roman bath in the rear of the estate, I've had it refurbished. It is at your leisure, of course. My steward will see you have rooms for the night, you're free to roam the castle, and a meal will be served here." He looks over his shoulder at the door he came in. "I must depart for a while, but I will return for dinner."

He stands. "Gentle knights, it's a pleasure to have you here."

kwll

Feb 9, 2023 3:27 pm

The Perilous Forest

"We appreciate your fine welcome. May your guest forgive us to make her uncomfortable for a few days." answers Sir Wilfred while saluting the Earl while he leaves. All said with a barely noticeable smile.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Feb 9, 2023 11:00 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Indeed, a hearty welcome and generous as well," Sir Gregor says, feeling none of the enthusiasm he shows. Raising an eyebrow of surprise at Sir Wilfrid's remark he is secretly delighted.

Sir Gregor Gareth neither likes nor trusts the earl whose honeyed words fall flat on the knight. He turns to follow Sir Wilfrid and leaves.

Last edited February 10, 2023 3:03 am

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Feb 10, 2023 12:47 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Ha! Either Gareth or Gregor should change their name....hmm how's Sir Dregor sound? 😂

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Feb 10, 2023 3:03 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Haha my turn! I'll fix it. I've almost done that several times until I finally did.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Feb 10, 2023 4:09 am

The Perilous Forest

"Earl," Sir Wolstan says politely as the noble takes his leave, before turning to his fellows.

"Our gracious host is suspicious," he says lowly. "Our further investigations -- for they are needed -- will need to be subtle. The Earl will have eyes and ears all over, remember this. Do not speak in a manner that will put the innocent in the path of his wrath. Now then. Before we leave this place and go north, or pretend to, who is it that we need a dialog with? The man named by the maid, certainly. And the tax collector? Merchants or petty lords who feel injured by the Earl's taxes, I would think? What of his mistress?"

kwll

Feb 10, 2023 7:44 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred frowns at the mention of the mistress, of whom he obviously disapproves. "Let's begin by the man maid Maude mentioned. And the tax collector. We will see if we need more discussions afterwards."

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Feb 10, 2023 10:00 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Would we be able to trust the earl's mistress? I think not for surely she would be loyal to her lover. The most likely to have loose lips would be those harmed by the earl I suspect. They might be the easiest to gain information from and perhaps they will bear the most fruit."

Sir Gareth turns to the other knights for affirmation.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Feb 10, 2023 11:11 pm

The Perilous Forest

"You are mostly likely right Sir Gareth, and considering now we are taking her handmaiden on our errand, she might take an extra disliking to us. But…still if we are here in this castle for the night. I suppose it wouldn’t hurt. We can always read between the lines.

Though even if we don’t question the mistress, I’m sure if we question the man named by maid Maude, the tax collector, Merchants, petty lords, as well as common folk along our journey north, we’ll be able to start to paint a truthful picture. I don’t mind taking time to get to the bottom of it all."

Last edited February 10, 2023 11:11 pm

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Feb 11, 2023 1:38 am

The Perilous Forest

"So l vote to enact Sir Wilfred’s plan and begin with this John Alistar and the tax collector. If we just begin I’m sure our best further actions will make themselves apparent."

Last edited February 11, 2023 1:39 am

King Arthur

Qralloq

Feb 13, 2023 4:02 am

The Perilous Forest

Later the servants come and show you to rooms. They are well appointed, perhaps a touch less so than you'd expect for a prestigious country lord, but not mean by any stretch.

You're given chamber pots, hot water and towels to wash up and promises to fetch you when dinner is ready. You're rooms are near each other, so you can rest or visit as you please.

You request of the steward that the tax collector be sent to you, and one John Alistair. The first he agrees to send right away, the second he says that that man had left the castle the prior day.

Cecil the Taxcollector

The tax collector arrives, a sturdy man, more fit to be a blacksmith than an accountant. Barrel chested, with wide mustaches and scarred arms, he seems a man who has seen his share of violence.

Gathered together in the larger room, he greets you all. "My lords, I was sent by the steward to attend to you. What pray thou could I do for august men such as yourselves? Say it and it will be so."

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Feb 16, 2023 7:34 am

The Perilous Forest

"Greetings," Wolstan says, rising. He's bathed and shed his armored shell, now wearing a doublet of rich burgundy, as well as his sword. "I am Sir Wolstan of Glengrave," he continues, allowing his companions to introduce themselves as well. "We're seeing to this matter with the brigands... and wonder what your experiences with them might be, since you are a man who travels the Earl's roads with frequency, and while carrying spoils that might attract these unsavory types."

OOC:

Trying to read the man, to catch his reaction to certain things we might say in conversation as the dialog unfolds...

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Feb 16, 2023 5:40 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth availed himself of the hot water and towels. He could not remember the last time he had bathed, or changed his clothes for that matter. He had to admit to himself that it felt good and he ought to do better. Dressing in a fresh set of clothes and grabbing his sword, he met his fellow knights and the tax collector.

"Indeed, my good man, we must rid the woods of such vermin and make them safe again. What can you tell us?"

kwll

Feb 16, 2023 6:03 pm

The Perilous Forest

Having refreshed and changed himself, Sir Wilfred joins the conversation with the tax collector. As a silent listener for now.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Feb 16, 2023 8:02 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gregor is there as well.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Feb 17, 2023 4:06 am

The Perilous Forest

Cecil the Taxcollector

He smiles grimly and scratches his head. "Well, it's like this. Every once in a while, I pay a man to let me beat on him a bunch, out on the road. Add some goats blood, make it look vicious. Then he stumbles into the nearest town and tells the story of how he insulted me with four or five others, and I soundly thrashed them all, then hung one as a warning. Stories like that, each different but the same. I've got a bit of a legend now." He blushes. "I know it's not honest, strictly, but 'a name is as good as a shield,' my pa used to say."

He then, sensing your impatience at him not directly answering your questions, says, "I'm not sure about these new men. They've left me alone, but for how long I can't say. I've heard that there have attacked travelers, six on one, and that's likely not a story. They have a camp, I suspect to the south and west. I've heard more than one story about them going to and from that way, least wise."

He leans closer to Wilfred and Gregor, naturally preferring the company of men who listen quietly to his endless stories.

"One more thing. There is a witch that way. Most leave her be, or tip their forelock and don't make eye contact to ole Shezbaz. She's a beauty, but it's a trick, she's as old as anyone ever could be, and evil to boot."

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Feb 17, 2023 1:54 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gregor thinks to himself "hmm...lawless leader to the north, a brigands camp to the south, and now a witch." Looking to his fellow knights he tries to discern their reaction about this news of the south and a witch.

It seems to Gregor that heading south may be the best plan. But just in case the collector has any insight into the north, Gregor breaks his silence, "The Earl had mentioned ongoing trouble in the North, Do you know anything about the lawless men there and their leader?"

OOC:

Not wishing to derail the line of questioning begun by Sir Wolston and Sir Gareth, Gregor would wait to pose his question until after they responded to the tax collector and asked any more questions.

kwll

Feb 17, 2023 2:42 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred smiles at the talkative Cecil, and keeps silent, figuring that the more comfortable he feels, the more talkative he will be. If some of the wine is till lying around, he serves him a mug using a natural a demeanor as possible.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Feb 17, 2023 9:47 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth tries hard not to sneer at the man who he deems a coward. Gareth had his faults it was true, but stooping as low as that, and paying men in order to prove one's bravery? Well, it was abhorrent! Thusly, when the man leaned closer it was with much force of will that Sir Gareth did not lean the other way.

"A witch you say? Indeed. Where exactly might we find her?"

King Arthur

Qralloq

Feb 18, 2023 3:40 am

The Perilous Forest

Cecil the Taxcollector

"The northmen? Picts, some say, or invaders from the north across the sea. Either way, they're freemen and fiercely so. The Earl has rightful dominion of that land, but he hasn't taken control of it. They vanish into those trees like spirits. You'd need an army to take them, and another army to hold it. No, the Earl has better use for his men than trying to hold smoke in your fist."

He accepts the wine from Sir Wilfred, his favourite of you, and says, "Thank you, m'lord. The witch, I don't know rightly. They say she lives on a rocky shore near the Swamp of Peril. The road goes there, so you can't miss it, but finding her squalid hut has never been my fate. Can't say as I tried that hard, I doubt she would pay any taxes other than cursing me. Ha!"

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Feb 18, 2023 5:40 pm

The Perilous Forest

Like the young knight Gareth Heath, Wolstan mislikes hearing about the dishonest and unchivalrous strategies the taxman uses to wrest coins and goods from the Earl's serfs. But the man's tongue is loose from the moment he flaps his lips, and while they all must be wary that's he's speaking lies, there is certainly something to learn from this man. From what he says, and what he does not.

The barrel-chested knight snorts inwardly at the mention of a witch, but nods when the man explains who the troublesome foes are to the north. Too much of this lately, in Arthur's lands. When Cecil mentions the Earl's men and a better use for them, Sir Wolstan presses the point mildly.

"And what use is that?" he asks. "For his men, I mean?"

King Arthur

Qralloq

Feb 18, 2023 11:48 pm

The Perilous Forest

Cecil the Taxcollector

He hesitates, and then sighs, realizing that he's a common man trapped between two nobles. "It's not my place to say, my Lord."

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Feb 19, 2023 5:30 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan meets the man's gaze and holds it for a long moment before he subtly nods, once. "Understood. Remember that your King decides your place, Cecil." But then, knowing the man is in a difficult position, the middle-aged knight extends something of an olive branch.

"Mayhaps you could tell us of someone who understands the complexities here better than a simple tax collector. Who was loyal and keen-minded enough to tell the Pendragon's agents what they need to know. So that they do not have to wring it from other places, however they can."

Cecil the Taxcollector

Qralloq

Feb 19, 2023 5:47 pm

The Perilous Forest

Cecil the Taxcollector

He squeezes his wine a little, weighing his loyalties. He's never met the king, or even see him, but he does operate at the Earl's pleasure.

"Promise you won't say it came from me? What I can tell you?"

When one of you agrees, he tells you, "The Earl is bankrupt. He has very little funds remaining, and has taken to selling his possessions, and furnishings. I don't know where all of his funds go, but his mistress is an expensive distraction." He clasps his mouth shut, and then adds, "I apologize for speaking so of my lady, I only meant that she has expensive tastes and the Earl dotes on her."

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Feb 20, 2023 2:27 am

The Perilous Forest

Aha! Gareth thinks. Now we get to the heart of the matter.

"Perhaps this camp of men to the south and west gives gifts to the earl in exchange for being allowed to run rampant in the woods freely attacking travelers and robbing them of their most valuable possessions!"

The bold knight did not mind voicing his thoughts in front of this man. Now that the tax collector had compromised himself he would hardly go back to the fiendish earl and tattle. It was ironic though that the earl's mistress appeared to be the cause of his demise. Gareth had found himself in similar circumstances more than once, though his solution was far less imaginative.

kwll

Feb 20, 2023 3:22 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred is also very much displeased to hear that the mistress might be the source of much ailment to the people under the Earl's care. The responsibility of the man shouldn't be diminished though. Tapping gently the tax collector on the shoulder, he pours some more wine in his mug. "Maybe it would be a good idea to meet this woman, after all?" he thinks aloud.

Last edited February 21, 2023 7:41 pm

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Feb 20, 2023 5:56 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gregor is up for speaking with the mistress too.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Feb 21, 2023 6:04 am

The Perilous Forest

"Your words will not be used against you, Cecil," Wolstan reassures the man. "We will use them only to begin to understand what is happening here. There are many others who know more, I suspect, and understand that some of them will not receive the same assurances."

When there is talk of interviewing the Earl's mistress, the older knight frowns. "It won't do for four of the King's agents to corner this woman; a milder touch will be required to learn anything from her. Would that there was some celebration or feast coming up. Such an opportunity would be perfect for prising facts from her, especially for a young and dashing knight."

Thinking further, he adds, "What of the Earl's wife? What does she know of this situation?"

Last edited February 23, 2023 1:49 am

kwll

Feb 21, 2023 7:46 pm

The Perilous Forest

"You are very wise, Sir Wolstan. I was certainly not planning to go and meet her immediately, be it alone or with your company. Let's wait for the proper opportunity." answers Sir Wilfred quickly, a bit surprised by the thought.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Feb 21, 2023 7:48 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gregor nods in agreement with Sir Wolston and Sir Wilfred.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Feb 21, 2023 8:32 pm

The Perilous Forest

Naturally, Gareth's ears perked up at the mention of a young and dashing knight. He was young, dashing, and very handsome. Of course, behaving improperly could earn him a beheading thus depriving a multitude of ladies the delightful experience of gazing upon his attractive visage.

When Wolstan asks about the Earl's wife, he fears that the man is treading in delicate territory, knowing nothing about any arrangements that may or may not have been made.

"Is it wise to pursue that avenue of questioning? Some feathers may get ruffled in the process."

Cecil the Taxcollector

Qralloq

Feb 22, 2023 12:57 am

The Perilous Forest

Cecil the Taxcollector

Cecil will politely suggest that the Earl's wife is a matter not discussed, but she has retired to the monastery to the north. As to the mistress, he again politely suggests that the Earl does not seem to mind if she has visitors, even male visitors. He whispers a small addition, "Unescorted."

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Feb 22, 2023 2:11 am

The Perilous Forest

This whole ordeal with the Earl and his mistress makes the man, Brandon of Angard, think of his former mentor the real Sir Gregor Gildon who he is currently masquerading as. He wonders if the knight was in fact able to find his mistress abroad and reunite with her. He truly hopes so.

He also tries to think what his master would do in this situation with the Earl.

Last edited February 22, 2023 3:41 am

kwll

Feb 22, 2023 10:09 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred ponders what he heard. "Then maybe a short stop at this monastery would be in order?" he proposes, always keen to visit places dedicated to the faith.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Feb 23, 2023 3:27 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wolstan turns so that Wilfred can see his eyes, and the meaning in them, but the tax collector cannot.

"We'll leave the Earl's wife to her solitude," he lies. "Nothing to gain from troubling the woman with so many other rises we have yet to crest here."

To Cecil, he says, "Our thanks, my good man, and the thanks of your King, Arthur Pendragon. You have not slighted you lord, only allowed us to begin to unbind these threads that seem to tangle everything here together. His holdings and the King's subjects will only benefit."

Giving the tax man the impression it is time to leave, Sir Wolstan looks to his three companions. "We should discuss what we have learned, good knights. Perhaps a stroll in the gardens."

OOC:

Hope I'm not cutting this short. Just seems like we have tons to work with now and it feels right to advance things along...

And it's night by now, yes?

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Feb 23, 2023 3:54 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Agreed. We have lots.

"A stroll to reflect and discuss before the hour gets too late is an excellent idea Sir Wolston."

Last edited February 23, 2023 3:56 am

kwll

Feb 23, 2023 9:52 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred nods politely, and says a few farewell words to the tax collector as well, with a smile. "Again, thank you for your help."

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Feb 23, 2023 7:38 pm

The Perilous Forest

"I agree there is plenty to discover but why not seek out the wife at the monastery later? She might have very loose lips if she holds the earl's mistress in contempt which I imagine might be the case."

While Gareth had no eyes for gardens, a stroll was a good idea to firm up their plans of what to do next.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Feb 24, 2023 5:20 am

The Perilous Forest

The man from Glengrave smiles beneath his beard when they are alone and the Heath boy wonders about leaving the Earl's wide be.

"Misdirection, Sir Gareth," he says quietly, conscious of the night air carrying sounds. "She should be, in fact, one of the first people we talk to. But we don't need the Earl and this troop of men-at-arms knowing that. Now then. Shall we recount what we've learned, and decide which of us are suited for these different tasks?"

OOC:

So things I think we need to do... feel free to add to this list:

🤺 Travel north, pretending to be checking on the Picts / northmen, but actually going to the monastery to see the Earl's wife.

🤺 Check the lands to the southwest for the witch (Shezbaz?), and these brigands who seem to be in the Earl's employ.

🤺 Speak with the Mistress.

🤺 Speak with townsfolk, farmers, crafters, about the taxes and where they think the money is going. And who it is that's buying most of the Earl's possessions.

🤺 Find the whereabouts of John Alistair.

🤺 Before heading off, speak with the maid we rescued on these topics to see what she knows. Including the Earl's financial troubles that she didn't mention, etc.

I'm sure I'm missing some things...

kwll

Feb 24, 2023 11:33 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wirlfred nods at the list enumerated by Sir Wolstan. "Quite right. Let's talk to the maid before anything else. She might find a way for us to meet her mistress without attracting too much attention..."

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Feb 24, 2023 1:14 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

I vote for north to monestary and bring Maude and fenwick with us

King Arthur

Qralloq

Feb 27, 2023 1:13 am

The Perilous Forest

I'll give you until tomorrow evening (say, 24 hours from now) to come to an agreement, otherwise, Sir Gregor Gildon's suggestion will stand as unanimous.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Feb 27, 2023 6:19 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Apologies if I've given us a bit of paralysis -- just wanted to list out the options. I think going north to the wife is key, and talking about what we've learned with the maid first is a grand idea.

I also support us splitting into two ground to cover more ground, but understand if my fellow players (or the GM) aren't down with that...

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Feb 27, 2023 6:40 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

No. Laying out the option was good I think. Now we just have to choose. We have many options, any of which will likely lead to more info and make things clearer. Certainly, I'm sure all will lead to more fun! I also support splitting if that is something our GM is up for. But staying together will work if splitting will make things too difficult.

kwll

Feb 27, 2023 2:16 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred is of the mind of staying together, since the party is not that numerous in a potentially hostile environment. He will not oppose splitting though if that is the wish of the majority. As agreed an interview with the maid would be the first step. Then probably making a visit to the wife's monastery. Then at this point maybe we will decide what to do next?

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Feb 27, 2023 3:07 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

The maid then the wife would be my vote.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Feb 27, 2023 5:29 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

The maid then the wife sounds good. (When we say maid do we mean the Earl’s mistress or maid Maude? Either way I’m fine.)

Last edited February 27, 2023 5:30 pm

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Feb 28, 2023 4:01 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Sir Gregor, from what we've heard I cannot imagine one calling the mistress a maid!

;)

Alrighty -- King Arthur, let's keep the knights together and visit the Maid Maude before heading north to find the Earl's wife. (Under the guise of going north to get a look at the barbarians...)

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 1, 2023 12:14 am

The Perilous Forest

Having come upon a decision, the servants soon fetch you for dinner. The Earl does not join you, and the steward sends his regrets, saying that your narrow escape from certain death at the hands of the outrageous bandits have motivated him to find out with his men and roust the roustabouts. Maid Maude however joins you, at your request that her and Fenwick be at your disposal. Fenwick waits outside the room, standing guard.

Your meal is fine, country hen (pheasant) in a mushroom gravy, and a platter of fresh fish poached in cream, all served with thick breads, candied mincemeats, and stewed summer vegetables.

Maid Maude

"I thank you for your invitation, m'lords. M'lady is wont to dine late, and she has given me permission to attend on you."

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 1, 2023 2:04 am

The Perilous Forest

"It is fortunate you could attend." Gregor says to Maid Maude. "Tell me," he continues,"how has your time as the castle been since we escorted you back here?"

After she replies, Gregor will also ask her, "Do you know anything more of The Abbott of Brown Cloister. Is there any connection there to Earl Parwick's wife?"

Last edited March 1, 2023 2:04 am

Maid Maude

Qralloq

Mar 1, 2023 3:32 am

The Perilous Forest

Maid Maude

"I was questioned, Sir Knight, by the steward, and then by m'lady. The steward asked mostly if I had been mistreated, or if I was no longer suitable to attend to m'lady. The lady, however, wanted to know about you four. She was very curious about what brought you here."

As to the Abbott and the Earl's wife, she only says that, "The Abbott accepted a sizable stipend to ensconce the former countess in the abbey. He comes to provide counsel to the Earl when required. I suppose it is in recompense for the generosity, but I only speculate."

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Mar 1, 2023 4:49 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wolstan, having eaten heartily, wipes gravy and cream from his mouth and beard with a piece of table linen. "And what might this wife's name be?" he asks. "And what malfeasance has she committed to spur her husband to banish her so? Your mistress had a hand in this, perhaps, but what grounds does the Earl offer for his actions to his courtiers?"

kwll

Mar 1, 2023 10:15 am

The Perilous Forest

"Have you only already met her in the flesh?" adds Sir Wilfred to Sir Wolstan's question, between two bites.

Maid Maude

Qralloq

Mar 2, 2023 1:57 am

The Perilous Forest

Maid Maude

"The Countess is named Cynewise, sir knight. I do not know what caused her to seek sanctuary, nor am I privy to rumours to such. The Earl claims that she suffers from melancholy, and if he's in his cups, he might add that it was due to losing a child. It is true that she was pregnant a few years ago, but no child came of it."

To Sir Wilfred, she says, "I have not met her, no, my lord."

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Mar 2, 2023 6:10 am

The Perilous Forest

The plot thickens.

At the mention of rumors, Wolstan raises a hand to offer an easy way out of the conversation before the impropriety embarrasses them all... and causes the steward to question the woman's virtue further. "And nor would we expect you to be, Maude," the man says. "You have told us all we need to know about the situation with the Earl and the Countess. We knights will find the truth of it, and set right whatever has gone wrong here."

kwll

Mar 2, 2023 11:47 am

The Perilous Forest

"That is about right." abounds Sir Wilfred. "I just have a few more questions if you don't mind, though, and that will be all. About this Abbott. What's his name? What does he look like? Do you know if your mistress knows him?"

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 3, 2023 3:17 am

The Perilous Forest

Maid Maude

She is uncomfortable with the rumourmongering"The Abbott of Brown Cloister is Father Dyddion. He is a thin man, almost impossibly so for someone so tall. Middle aged, bald with bushy beard." She gestures at the lower side of her jaw about the beard. "He wears a yellow robe, each time I've seen him, like a pauper."

To the last question, she adds, "Yes, they've supped together once, the Earl, her, and the Father, when he has visited."

kwll

Mar 3, 2023 9:11 am

The Perilous Forest

"It think I speak in the name of everyone here when I say that your words have been most precious to us. Please take care of yourself in the coming days. And it would be of great help to us if you would keep having your eyes and ears open to all the things happening here." says Sir Wilfred in response. He proposes to accompany the maid back to the door to conclude the interview, except if any of his fellow knights would like to add anything.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 3, 2023 1:20 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gregor adds, "Maid Maude, when we first met you and your man-at-arms, Fenwick, you had said in earnest that you wished we would have delivered you from the brigands further from the castle. I ask you. Is it safe here now for Fenwick and yourself? The Earl has granted us permission to have you accompany us, since you have some experience with and knowledge of the actions of the brigands—more than he does even," Gregor says the last comment sarcastically. "You and Fenwick may if you feel that would be prudent."

Maid Maude

Qralloq

Mar 4, 2023 2:43 pm

The Perilous Forest

Maid Maude

She agrees to accompany you, uncertain whether it is safe. "The Earl's countenance grows more desperate, surely it would be safer asking such gentlemen as yourselves."

She finishes her dinner and then excuses herself to pack a bag for the morning.

Assuming you'll leave then?

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 4, 2023 4:38 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Perhaps someone wants to visit the mistress before we head out??

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Mar 4, 2023 9:41 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gareth quietly makes his thoughts known after maid Maude takes her leave.

"The earl and his mistress have supped together with the Abbott, the keeper of the earl's wife? Is this not most unusual? It seems an odd trio of bedfellows to be dining together do you not think? Something feels rotten in this arrangement. Something more than just the lady losing a child."

OOC:

I would be ok with visiting the mistress if that's what we decide.

Last edited March 4, 2023 9:41 pm

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Mar 5, 2023 4:45 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Wolstan is turning in. He hopes in the morning to hear about Heath's visit to the mistress. ;)

Last edited March 5, 2023 4:45 am

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 5, 2023 5:07 am

The Perilous Forest

"I agree with your assessment Sir Gareth. Perhaps you should visit the mistress before we leave here."

Last edited March 5, 2023 5:10 am

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 5, 2023 4:18 pm

The Perilous Forest

You all turn in for the night.

Later that night, in Gareth's chambers...

Sir Heath is asleep and he finds the scent of lilies wafting in his room. He awakes to find a woman on his bed. Gorgeous, dressed scantilly, and obviously in the mood for loveplay, she leans forward against him, and says in a husky whisper that buzzes every nerve in his male body like the first hit of alcohol, "The portents say that the Earl won't live long and then I'll need a new lover. Want me to show you what you have to look forward to?"

As Gareth fully wakes up, no stranger to female attention given his handsome countenance and flirtatious manner, Gareth realizes he may have an opportunity here, or two. Cuckholding the Earl would be politically disastrous and would undoubtedly lead to a duel with the man. What does he do?

kwll

Mar 6, 2023 4:21 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred goes to bed, spending a disturbed night full of horrible dreams about unbearable and unforgivable adultery...

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Mar 6, 2023 6:38 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gareth wakes with a smile on his face and the scent of lillies in his nose. He has further cause to smile when he is pleasantly surprised by the sultry whispers of .... could it be?

With no care for the consequences, Gareth gazes into the beautiful eyes of the earl's mistress, warmly kissing her full lips as he welcomes her attention wholeheartedly. They can talk of the portents later.

Last edited March 6, 2023 6:38 pm

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 7, 2023 2:26 am

The Perilous Forest

In the morning, everyone wakes refreshed, except Gareth, who feels somewhat drained.

You meet to break your fast, and soon find yourself riding north to the abbey known as Brown Cloister. Maid Maude and Fenwick ride with you on borrowed ponies.

The road to the north is somewhat well maintained, at least at first, but soon you find yourself climbing switchbacks up into the hills. The trees grow thicker, the light dimmer. During one pause, as you walk the horses to rest them, you hear a scream from Maid Maude.

Maid Maude

"There, a face! Hideous and cruel!" She points into the trees to the side.

Fenwick places his hand on his sword and is about to plunge into the trees, when it occurs to him to take your lead. "Lords?"

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Mar 7, 2023 3:27 am

The Perilous Forest

There was a woman in Wolstan's dreams as well, and a beautiful one. But he shrank from her touch, he turned away when she reached for him. Which shamed him, and left him out of sorts for a good part of the morning ride. And so it is well into the day before he thinks to ask Sir Gareth whether he spoke to the mistress, but then there is the Maid Maude, trembling and frightened again by something she's seen. A keen-eyed woman, she certainly seems to be.

The big knight does not tarry in dismounting, lowering his visor, raising his axe-and-turnip emblazoned shield, and drawing his sword. He gestures right and left to his fellows, hoping to place them on the flanks of whatever it is Maude saw. "Prevent this cruel creature from escaping," he says simply, as he advances forward into the trees.

OOC:

Idea being he advanced directly while others go to the flanks.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Mar 7, 2023 3:59 am

The Perilous Forest

Gareth too dismounts and draws his sword, the sound of metal sliding through scabbard stirring his pounding heart, as he hurries quietly to the right of Sir Wolstan, ready to fight.

kwll

Mar 7, 2023 7:01 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred imitates his companions, taking the left flank, arms ready.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 8, 2023 2:46 am

The Perilous Forest

The four of you move into the woods, with Wolstan taking center, and Gareth and Wilfred flanking. Perhaps the latter two only hope to corral the thing that Maid Maude saw and keep it from getting past the senior knight, or maybe they're wary of an ambush.

As Wolstan proceeds, a huge crazed man leaps out of the bush at him, yellow fangs flecked with spittle, and filthy hides covering its upperbody but the rest of him is naked. He bellows not unlike a bear, and brandishes a huge club. He's larger than most men, and every tale you've heard on such things tells you that this is a troll!

The creature is poised as if about to attack the armored knight, Wolstan.

What do you do?

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Mar 8, 2023 5:17 am

The Perilous Forest

The size and fearsomeness of the club is not lost on Wolstan, and his shield is quick to position as the half-naked bramble-thing comes at him, crashing through the trees.

"Weigh your chances here, trollkin!" the knight barks from behind his great helm. "Tis four against one and our steel is bared! You've no advantage here!"

OOC:

He'll defend himself if attacked, and attack back if things look to devolve into a straight fight. Idea being first to disarm and dissuade...

Last edited March 9, 2023 5:40 am

kwll

Mar 8, 2023 9:18 am

The Perilous Forest

"Behold, fiend!" screams Sir Wilfred, brandishing his sword in an attempt to intimidate the monster as started by Sir Wolstan.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Mar 8, 2023 5:41 pm

The Perilous Forest

"The thing is crazed and will be unpredictable," Sir Gareth warns. Hoping the thing will take heed of Sir Wolstan's words as Gareth brandishes his sword and waves it menacingly he adds, "Mark the knight's threat, beast!"

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 9, 2023 3:55 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Combat will be an opposed check, with Wolstan facing off against the troll in the first round. Wolstan may gather his coins and flip them. The pool is made from Brawn, Arms, Armor rating (medium is +2), and sword. I'll also grant another +1 to Wolstan for the solid support of his fellow knights.

After the first clash, we'll evaluate the results and there may be more work for the others.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 9, 2023 4:29 am

The Perilous Forest

Gregor is also at a flank!!

OOC:

Sorry folks. I don't know how I missed two days of posts

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Mar 9, 2023 5:59 am

The Perilous Forest

Onward the thing comes, so Wolstan braces for the impact, trying to deflect its blow with his shield before countering with a low and powerful swipe from his sword...

OOC:

So... forgive me for building this 'out loud,' but...

Brawn 4, Arms 2, Medium Armor 2, Sword 1, Friendly Support 1 -- makes for a roll of 10 coins, yes?

Last edited March 9, 2023 6:02 am

Rolls

10d2-10

(1221111112) - 10 = 3

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 10, 2023 2:52 am

The Perilous Forest

The troll's attack is savage, untrained, fearless... but ultimately his bluster is just that.

Wolstan, not taking that troll lightly, blocks a heavy blow with his shield, but it isn't as powerful as he'd expect.

OOC:

Care to narrate the victory, and what state you leave the poor fellow in?

Rolls

Attack! - (6d2-6)

(211111) - 6 = 1

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Mar 10, 2023 6:37 am

The Perilous Forest

The action is initially too quick for Wolstan to recognize that he's fighting a mere peasant, though a big and rude one. So after blocking the clumsy strike with his shield, the knight strikes and draws blood with his sword. It's not a mortal wound, but the armored man's attacker won't be walking without a limp any time soon.

When the brute ends up on the ground, the point of Sir Wolstan's steels hovers near his neck.

"Hold, knave! Why did you attack us so?"

OOC:

And WHEREFORE ART THOU PANTS?!

Thine pants?

WHEREFORE ART THINE BREEKS!?

Last edited March 10, 2023 6:38 am

kwll

Mar 10, 2023 5:49 pm

The Perilous Forest

Satisfied by the outcome of the short fight, Sir Wilfred is prompt to step on one of the monster's arms to thwart any further attempt at violence.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Mar 10, 2023 6:15 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Well played Sir Wolstan but can someone cover his nether regions? I find the view to be somewhat offensive." Sir Gareth turns to the downed creature, tempted to place a boot on his shoulder.

"And you troll. Pray tell us why are you half-clothed?"

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 11, 2023 3:12 am

The Perilous Forest

The peasant, clutching his wounded leg, grits his teeth for the pain. The man hears Wolstan's words but as if through a fog, his feral mannerisms retreating behind a cloud of fear.

"No, let me go!" he says in a haggard, ill used voice, as if he was the wronged here.

You question him further, and find him to be a madman, barely coherent. He only wants to run away, or hobble.

kwll

Mar 12, 2023 4:57 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred frees the man's arm, not willing to lose too much time with him anymore. "Let's continue with our travel. This creature is obviously not worth our time." he proposes to his companions.

Last edited March 13, 2023 1:12 pm

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 13, 2023 3:30 am

The Perilous Forest

Gregor admires Sir Wolston's quick reaction and delivery of a non lethal blow--when it was obvious that Wolston could have easily killed this...pitiful 'troll' of a man.

"Perhaps you are right Sir Wilfred. We should show this wretch some mercy and not let him delay us further."

Gregor turns to the beast of a man and asks, "Do you even have a name?"

Last edited March 13, 2023 3:31 am

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Mar 13, 2023 3:58 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth was about to agree with Wilfrid and Gregor but decided to wait and see if the feral creature responded with his name. Perhaps once he gave it, he would be more inclined to say more.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Mar 13, 2023 5:58 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan is not so keen to just turn the brute loose, injured or no. His sword is still drawn and the tip of it circles in the air near the beast-man's face as the other knights interrogate him. Then, he lowers his blade and stalks into the brush -- to see where the man came from, or if there are more like him still in hiding.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Mar 14, 2023 10:01 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth seeing what Wolstan is up to takes his place by brandishing his sword near the creature's face.

"Well? Who are you? What are you about? Are there more of you skulking in the woods?"

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 15, 2023 1:33 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan finds a small hollow, partly ambush place and part burrow. The man clearly sleeps here and ambushes passersby. His belongings are meager, no more than bones, but there are a few bottles and a larder (food pouch). The pouch is cleverly made, but crude. This isn't the handiwork of British or Saxons, but something else.

Gareth convinces the peasant to pee, his ripe smelly urine splashing as terror loosens his bladder uncontrollably. He says nothing but groans and moans in mortal anguish.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Mar 15, 2023 2:11 am

The Perilous Forest

"Egad, man! Sir Gareth backs up hastily, wrinkling his nose as he goes. Looking at the others he shakes his head and suddenly feels sorry for the pathetic brute.

Sheathing his sword and keeping his distance from the stench he decides on a different tactic. I am sorry we have frightened you but you frightened us. May we speak as one friend to another? Tell us what troubles you so. Look, I have put away my sword. We will not harm you if you make no move to harm us. Perhaps we can even help you?" Again Sir Gareth looks to the others, but this time it is to entreat them to do the same.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Mar 15, 2023 5:33 am

The Perilous Forest

From the brush, Sir Wolstan calls out, unaware of the man suddenly urinating, and of Heath's hilariously hasty retreat. "I think the primitive fool was alone... but I don't know that we can leave him. He'll frighten and injure travelers less stalwart than we."

Emerging from the side of the trail, the big man frowns at what he sees, but decides to not call further attention to it. "We should bind the simpleton, then later collect him and take him back to the Earl."

kwll

Mar 15, 2023 8:20 am

The Perilous Forest

"That might be the right thing to do indeed, sir Wolstan. But let's haste, we lost enough time with this poor lad already!" abounds Sir Wilfred.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Mar 15, 2023 5:22 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth shrugs his shoulders. He has little investment in the man after all. "Then let's make haste with it."

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 16, 2023 1:27 am

The Perilous Forest

With some effort, but no real difficulty, you bind the troll-dressed peasant to a tree. He whimpers, wanting to get away, but does not fight overly hard, fearing your swords (and your obvious willingness to use them).

With the ambusher dealt with, Maid Maude and Fenwick (each with mixed reactions, Maude clearly applauding the valour, while Fenwick wonders what use keeping him alive is) have held your horses in check and are ready to proceed with you.

Maid Maude

"I do hope he's okay. Perhaps he is bewitched by some curse?" She doesn't sound like she believes that, only wondering what could drive someone to such lunacy.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 16, 2023 3:02 am

The Perilous Forest

Gregor is somewhat unsettled with the idea.

"My fellow knights are we about to leave this brute of a man bound to a tree to suffer thirst and hunger and be pecked at by vultures on the grounds he pissed himself? He attacked us so he deserves to be brought to justice or get run through by our blades in his resistance. But to leave him tied to a tree, seems a bit primitive on our part. Can we even predict when we may be back to deliver the wretch to the Earl?"

Last edited March 16, 2023 3:02 am

kwll

Mar 16, 2023 1:27 pm

The Perilous Forest

"That's a lot of effort and time lost for this lad. Let's bind his foot to a tree and be done with it!" answers Sir Wilfred, eager to be on his way.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Mar 16, 2023 6:48 pm

The Perilous Forest

"My fellow knights. We are wasting precious time on this. Why not draw straws and come to a decision?" Sir Gareth looks around for something that will do as a straw and picks up four different-sized twigs. "Shall we? he asks, as he arranges them in a closed fist. "Who shall draw? The knight with the longest twig decides on the outcome of this dilemma."

Holding out his fist, he waits for a response.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 16, 2023 7:01 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gregor concedes, not wishing to cause the other knights to pry into his mind and motives and perhaps uncover any clues of his true low-bred origin. The idea does still unsettle him and the activity of leaving a human being tied to a tree is not the approach he imagined knights of King Arthur would take. But he thinks…who are the real knights after all, not he. He will certainly concede to the plan of the experienced Sir Wolston and the others.

"There is no need, Sir Gareth. My sentiment is in the minority. We should stick to Sir Wolston's plan"

Last edited March 16, 2023 7:06 pm

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Mar 17, 2023 6:36 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan is already horsed as he voices his own opinion.

"The man will live, or he won't. That's God's decision, not ours. We'll return this way -- we are not barbarians -- and we will see what the holy trinity has fated for the fool. Come, time, and light, is wasting."

OOC:

Giddyup!

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 17, 2023 1:48 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gregor nods to Sir Wolston and then retrieves his horse from Fenwick and Maude quickly thanking them for attending to the horses during the ordeal. He mounts and falls in behind Sir Wolston.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Mar 17, 2023 4:53 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Very well then, let's be off." Gareth mounts his horse who paws the ground anxious to be away.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 17, 2023 7:27 pm

The Perilous Forest

With the 'troll' secured, you ride off.

Several hours later...

The forest grows darker, the road narrower until you ride single file. The trail winds up and down hillsides, through tight ravines and around strewn boulders. A sense of being watched grows.

Still, you're no mean courtiers in danger of being waylaid by peasants dressed as trolls, and so when you ride into the possible ambush, you're not caught flat footed.

A man steps onto the path. His clothing is simple, perhaps primitive, and you recognize from accounts that this might be one of the Picts that so vexes the Earl. He holds a shortbow and grunts a question at you in a somewhat musical but unknown language.

From the trees around you, you hear the creak of other bows being drawn. The moment is poised on a razors edge.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 18, 2023 5:27 am

The Perilous Forest

Gregor speaks quietly to his companions, out of the ear shot of any men in the woods or the one ahead on the road, "I sense we are out numbered. Perhaps our best chance is to inquire about Veringvox. This could possibly be the man before us."

Last edited March 18, 2023 5:28 am

kwll

Mar 18, 2023 12:17 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred nods at his companion, not saying a word.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 18, 2023 2:18 pm

The Perilous Forest

Taking Sir Wilfred’s nod as an invitation to proceed and also hoping to regain the confidence of his fellow knights after his former outburst Gregor calls out to the man standing on the road,

"Our Company consists of four knights of King Arthur of the Britons and two we delivered either from the law of the south or its lawlessness. We are not quite sure yet. We Journey to the North in the quest for truth, and we seek the one who leads the northmen named Veringvox in the hope he can aid us our quest in the name of King Arthur."

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Mar 18, 2023 3:31 pm

The Perilous Forest

A knight tempered by the battlefield, and by the upheaval Arthur had finally quelled, Sir Wolstan is wary of their predicament, and silently wonders if an immediate charge is a better option than parleying at the moment. But Sir Gregor has made his move, so now their play is to see what comes in response.

His hand on his sword's pommel, the stout warrior lowers his visor, prepares to wield his shield and turns to try and mark the numbers surrounding them.

"He might not know the English tongue," he says quietly to the others. "Be ready to ride out of this ambush."

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 18, 2023 3:42 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Gregor is so naive. We’ll see what happens 🤞

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 19, 2023 3:47 pm

The Perilous Forest

Veringvox

A pictish man steps forward, and behind him, a Christian monk with tonsured hair. The pict is bare chested, well muscled, with a northern style skirt around his waist, and a thick belt. in one hand, he carries a warclub with a cruel looking knot on the end that looks like it has been well used.

He adjusts his jaw and says in halting and awkward British, "I Veringvox be." He looks sideways at the monk and says, "Tafwick teach British me. I know of King Arthur, warlord good. You welcome to speak. Come." He waits for acknowledgement, but by some handsign or other sign, you can hear the archers in the woods relax their bows.

Brother Tafwick

The monk, Tadwick apparently, steps to nearly the side of the Pict leader but still a little behind and says gently, "I am brother Tadwick from the Brown Cloister. These are good people. Make no aggression upon them and they will not think to harm you." He says only then, "It is their way that you speak only to Veringvox, not to me, but I will translate if it is difficult." He says something of similar length to Veringvox in Pictish, and then steps back behind him.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 20, 2023 4:17 am

The Perilous Forest

Gregor acknowledges the offer of Verinvox, "It is good that you found us on this road Master Veringvox. We appreciate your offer to speak. Shall we speak here? "

Gregor is relieved and thankful that the situation has deescalated as opposed to the opposite. He looks at his companions to read their level of ease or concern.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Mar 20, 2023 5:00 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan waits a moment, evaluating the situation, then introduces the quartet, gesturing at each man as he voices their names.

"We are Sirs Wolstan of Glengrave, Gregor Gildon, Wilfred, and Gareth Heath. As our good fellow says, knights of the King of Britons' court."

But then, having made formal introductions, the man is content to follow along behind Gildon and the pict chieftan. He does watch, however, for some moment when we can catch the Brother and have a quiet word with him...

kwll

Mar 20, 2023 5:04 pm

The Perilous Forest

While his companions speak, Sir Wilfred looks around and behind while trying not to look too inquisitive.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Mar 20, 2023 6:11 pm

The Perilous Forest

Despite the tension easing, Gregor remains prepared for an attack. Though not yet drawn, the knight's hand remains near the hilt of his sword.

"Hail brother Tadwick," he says in a friendly enough manner.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 20, 2023 8:04 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gregor is pleased that Sir Wolston remembered to cordially introduce the knights individually. He inwardly kicks himself for being so unrefined as to forget. He’ll learn, eventually.

He sees that Sir Gareth still has his guard up. Though he thinks that’s wise, he doesn’t want these people to take offense and change their posture to an aggressive one.

He dismounts and takes off his helmet. He looks at the pict leader and addresses him directly, "Veringvox can we speak here or is there a place off the road." He would prefers to allow him and his fellow knights see how many men are in the Pict ranks.

Veringvox

Qralloq

Mar 21, 2023 1:25 am

The Perilous Forest

Veringvox

Veringvox leads you to a clearing off to the side of the path. You can see that they have traveling bags, including woolen blankets, and spare weapons, mainly spears. Clearly they are a patrol or perhaps a hunting party.

Veringvox squats before the fire, and pokes it with a few twigs, uncovering coals still warm from the night. He lays some kindling and with a few breaths, ignites a small flame. He gestures around you and says, "You say quest and Veringvox need. What need can people give rich knights?""

Tafwick smiles at Sir Gareth but just follows the fierce Pict chieftain and stands ready to assist should it be necessary to communicate.

kwll

Mar 21, 2023 12:47 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Do you have any dealings with the earl?" asks Sir Wilfred out of the blue, if only to watch everyone's reaction, be it from Veringvox or the monk. He is wary of the later, not sure of the role he is playing in this situation.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 22, 2023 12:49 am

The Perilous Forest

Veringvox

"Earl. No dealings. Earl tried to ... " he frowns, struggling with the words, and rattles something off in his own language.

Brother Tafwick

"The Earl attempted to impose a set of land use taxes, including stumpage for every deer and partridge taken in his lands. The freemen refused and shortened his constable after he attempted to arrest the chieftain." Tafwick makes a throat cutting gesture with the word shortened.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 22, 2023 1:20 am

The Perilous Forest

Addressing Veringvox Gregor says, "Judging from our initial encounter, the Earl should have approached it much differently and allowed your men to hunt freely and asked for them to keep the roads safe for travelers instead. We haven’t yet heard much good about the Earle’s dealings in these lands. Your perspective is welcome and will help us in our quest for information."

After saying that, Gregor glances at the monk wondering if the statement will need translation.

Gregor is so far still willing to adhere to northerner’s custom of addressing the chief only, but also curious (like Wilfred) what motives the monk has in this.

He asks Veringvox, "Chief, although it is good fortune for our conversation, how is it that you find Tafwick in your company?"

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Mar 22, 2023 4:28 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wolstan dismounts, removes his helm and joins his fellow and their host at the fire.

Questions are asked and answered... nothing too shocking, really, comes from the chieftain. The Earl seems a fool more than anything, to make demands without leverage or a plan. These men should have been shown off the Earl's lands, but from a position of strength. Now -- they are here to stay and surely staunch enemies of the nobleman.

When the time is right, he speaks up, asking Veringvox, "We have questions for the monk as well. May we ask them?"

kwll

Mar 22, 2023 1:40 pm

The Perilous Forest

Given the flow of the conversation, Sir Wilfred decides to dismount as well and removes his helmet.

Last edited March 24, 2023 1:48 pm

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Mar 22, 2023 3:09 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth dismounts, feeling that any potential threat is now unlikely with the knights' sympathetic ears on display but he still keeps an eye out for trouble. The earl is truly a buffoon and this opinion has been reinforced numerous times. Sir Gareth wonders how such a man remains alive and not already murdered in his sleep as he listens to the exchange, hoping that questions can indeed be asked of the monk as well.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 22, 2023 10:58 pm

The Perilous Forest

Veringvox

With Tafwick translating, Veringvox ignores your questions and says, "What is your interest in all of this. Tafwick says that you do not bear the Earl's standard, you are not his knights. What does your King Arthur intend to do and why do you care about the welfare of freemen?"

Brother Tafwick

Brother Tafwick adds an aside that, "If you wish to talk with me after this conversation, I'd be happy to talk then. The ways of the chief's people would see it as an insult to discuss a retainer while in formal negotiations."

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 23, 2023 2:37 am

The Perilous Forest

"We can only be open with you Chief Veringvox, and we pray you will do the same. It is true we do not bear the Earl's standard. We do not answer to him. You are right that we are King Arthur's knights. The King called us to meet at the crossroads south of here. And his chief advisor, Merlin, sent these two, Maid Maude and Master-Of-Arms Fenwick [Gregor gestures toward the two] to meet us and tell us that the Earl has been paying bandits to harass travelers. The King is apparently concerned about the Earl's handling of these lands. Our reason for wanting to speak with you is in the hope that your account would illuminate the truth on what has really been going on in these lands."

Gregor is about to also be open about the party's intent on visiting The Brown Cloister but stops himself from full disclosure. Aware that they yet have to learn what reason this monk from Brown Cloister has for traveling with this group of Picts, he looks at the monk and says, "Thank you for translating Brother Tafwick. I am thankful for your presence here facilitating this conversation. I do hope, as soon as it is possible, you can speak with Sir Wolston about the spread of the faith in the north."

Last edited March 23, 2023 2:43 am

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Mar 23, 2023 3:32 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wolstan’s eyebrows raise at the candor Sir Gregor displays — at the trust he places in their host, a man who commands a small and potentially hostile army that surrounds them.

As the other knight veers towards saying more, specifically about the Earl’s wife, Wolstan makes the creak of his leather and clank of his armor loud enough to get Gildon’s attention; a glance at the older man clearly indicates Wolstan wants Gregor to say nothing further just yet.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 23, 2023 5:09 am

The Perilous Forest

Gregor notices Sir Wolston's body language, understands, and heeds its message.

Last edited March 23, 2023 3:45 pm

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Mar 23, 2023 1:41 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth too was astonished at Sir Gregor's openness and almost grinned at the racket Sir Wolstan was making to grab his attention and encourage him to stop talking.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 23, 2023 9:46 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Gotta watch out for Gregor. He doesn't actually know what he's doing. He'll try to make friends and take home all the strays. ;)

Qralloq

Mar 24, 2023 3:03 am

The Perilous Forest

Veringvox

As Sir Gregor directly addresses Tafwick, Veringvox's features grow more stormy. Some social misstep is occurring, and the chief stands up. His posture tells you the meeting is at an end.

Speaking directly, he "Arthur King is not enemy. You are not welcome, even so. Go back to your Earl. This road is mine, I Veringvox, claim these woods on behalf of people. Tell others no come."

The other picts tighten their grips on their weapons. If they're following the cues from their leader, they suddenly are prepared for violence, but they're not initiating it. Yet.

Brother Tafwick

Tafwick is about to intercede, but Veringvox makes a gesture and the monk steps back, remaining quiet. He suffers remaining with the Picts at the chief's whim. The monk makes the sign of the cross almost imperceptably.

kwll

Mar 24, 2023 2:04 pm

The Perilous Forest

Figuring that there is no point in arguing anymore, Sir Wilfred makes a courteous bow at Veringvox, if brief, then puts back his helm goes back on his horse. He doesn't move hurriedly but doesn't lose time either.

When all his companions are ready, he starts riding at a steady pace back to the main road.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 24, 2023 2:57 pm

The Perilous Forest

Disappointed in himself that his careless words although brief still caused the situation to turn. He is astonished that events can turn so quickly. He sees Sir Wilfred take a courteous bow. He does the same toward the chief.

"I am sorry chief Veringvox. I meant you no ill-will nor disrespect. We can be on on our way if that is what you rather."

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 24, 2023 11:26 pm

The Perilous Forest

The prickly chieftain simply nods, and the picts hang on a razor's edge waiting for you to leave and go back from whence you came.

The Brown Cloister is the other way, unfortunately, further up the road.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Mar 25, 2023 1:35 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan's mouth is drawn as the dialog goes sour. He merely nods at the chieftain, indicating they will abide his decision, but he stops before putting his helm back on his head.

"Chieftain Veringvox. We recognize your claim here. But we need to travel north, to visit Christian holdings that lie beyond your woods. We don't wish a melee with you, but we will not be turned away. God has tasked us with visiting one of his houses. We cannot ignore that calling because you have clashes with the Earl."

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 25, 2023 2:26 am

The Perilous Forest

The moment hangs on a razor's edge. The picts tighten their grips on their weapons once more, not aiming at you, but ready to do so on a flash. Veringvox considers your words as the monk translates quietly, looking down at the ground, and his fingers moving in prayer.

Let's get a "Hard" Presence-Courtesy coin toss from Sir Wolstan. A show of respect from Sir Gregor will grant +2 coins, and from Sir Gareth and Sir Wilfred each another +1.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Mar 25, 2023 2:35 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth edges nearer to Wolstan as a show of support but unlike the knight, he does not stop short of putting on his helm. He makes a show of it and places it slowly and firmly on his head while leaving the visor up.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Mar 25, 2023 2:32 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Waiting to roll until I see if Wilfred helps and Gregor shows respect...

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 25, 2023 2:37 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

I wasn’t sure if Qralloq meant that he was already going to add those coins based on Gregor, Wilfred, and Gareth’s interactions already.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 25, 2023 3:01 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

He only gets the coins if you make a show of respect to ease the prickly chieftain's ire. Do you attempt to mollify him in some way?

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 25, 2023 3:06 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Yes! Should we roleplay that or will you take care of it?

Last edited March 25, 2023 3:52 pm

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 25, 2023 3:08 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Okay, how?

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Mar 25, 2023 4:10 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Roleplay it!

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 25, 2023 4:29 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gregor looks directly at Verignvox and again states, "I'm am sorry Chief Veringvox for my ignorance. I hope you will come to realize that I meant no disrespect to you. On the contrary, I very much appreciative that you took this party of knights into your confidence. It saddens me that my misstep has cut our meeting short. I don't have much, but I hope you can accept my dagger as a token of my appreciation."

He then slowly and carefully draws his dagger keeping the sharp pointed edge toward himself and holds out the hilt to the chief.

"I crafted this iron dagger myself in a former life, before before becoming a knight of King Arthur. It represents my finest work, so I have kept it with me since."

Last edited March 25, 2023 5:16 pm

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 25, 2023 5:46 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Nice!

@kwll, is Sir Wilfred going to assist as well?

kwll

Mar 27, 2023 4:24 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred immitates Sir Gareth, and gets near Sir Wolstan on his other flank, his visor up. He doesn't deem necessary to add any words.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Mar 27, 2023 9:53 pm

The Perilous Forest

And so with words spoken, helms situated, and an offering made, Wolstan trusts to the fates...

OOC:

Four successes...

Last edited March 27, 2023 9:54 pm

Rolls

Wolstan's Presence + Courtesy - (5d2-5)

(11112) - 5 = 1

Gregor's Dagger - (2d2-2)

(12) - 2 = 1

Wilfred and Gareth Look TUFF! - (2d-2)

() = 0

Screwed up the boys looking tough, so... - (2d2-2)

(22) - 2 = 2

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 27, 2023 11:59 pm

The Perilous Forest

Veringvox

He's impressed by Sir Wilfred's gesture, and accepts the dagger. Sir Wolstan's words, his willingness to treat Veringvox with respect but not with the soft lies of a courtier, softens his stance.

He barks at one of his men. In his halting words, he says, "Pelox will escort you. My men will let pass with him with you. Other men, other places. He does not speak your words, except, 'Stop. Go. Wait.' which I will teach him now." He repeats them to Pelox and then again in Pictish, and the man repeats them back.

"Go in peace, Arthur knights."

kwll

Mar 28, 2023 4:21 pm

The Perilous Forest

When everything is said and done, Sir Wilfred goes back to his mount and moves alongside his knight companions, hopefully peacefully. "How far is this monastery?" he asks to anyone who knows.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 29, 2023 3:56 am

The Perilous Forest

Fenwick relaxes his grip on his own weapon as you ride away, and says, "Four hours, maybe more."

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Mar 29, 2023 4:42 am

The Perilous Forest

After Veringvox accepts the dagger from Gregor, he gives the chief a respectful bow and turns toward his horse. When the chief says ‘go in peace’ he responds "thank you chief Veringvox and may peace remain yours as well."

When they ride away and Fenwick responds to Sir Wilfred’s question Gregor says, "We still have a fair ride ahead then. I am thankful that we have safe passage. I can only imagine how many other men loyal to Veringvox are watching this road."

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Mar 29, 2023 7:49 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Indeed that is a boon for us for sure," says the handsome knight as he settles onto his mount for the long ride ahead. "It might also prove useful that Pelox speaks few words of English if that is indeed the case." He narrows his eyes suspiciously toward the man and then glances at each knight in turn as if to say, perhaps we should test that assumption.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Mar 30, 2023 3:12 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wolstan, the man with the invitation to return to Glengrave that he dares not answer, nods solemnly and purposefully at the pict chieftain and his men when they agree to let the knights pass. He does not like ceding control of the wood to the wild men, but he has not lived as long as he has by baring steel that will draw a score arrows to him in a heartbeat.

He joins his fellows quietly on the road, wishing the exchanges had gone differently, wishing that they’d been able to speak with the monk. He is wary, though, of saying anything in front of Pelox without understanding more about the man’s personality, his attitude, and his knowledge of the British tongue.

"Is it true?" he asks of the barbarian as they ride. "That you know more of our language than you let on?"

King Arthur

Qralloq

Mar 31, 2023 2:01 pm

The Perilous Forest

The man looks at you as if sensing Wolstan talking to him. He just points down the trail and says "Go?" and then something pictish. He seems a little relaxed, leading the way slowly enough for all of you to keep up.

After an hour he turns and says, "Stop." He then makes a bird call. An answering one comes right away from within the woods. "Go," he adds, and leads the way forward again.

kwll

Mar 31, 2023 5:12 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred raises an eyebrow, then shrugs and follows along.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Mar 31, 2023 5:58 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gareth waits for the barbarian to move on ahead, then leans over the saddle to whoever is riding nearby, and in a low voice says, "Either he is a good actor or he really can't understand us."

As the trek continues he thinks about his last lady love but his pleasant reverie is cut short by the barbarian's order to stop.

"Hmmm, a network of barbarian scouts perhaps, or a trap?" Sir Gareth leans forward in the saddle, looking ahead in the direction of the bird call.

"Go, is it? What say my fellow knights? Shall we spread out and approach from different directions?" Perhaps he is being too suspicious but he does not trust the barbarian.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Apr 2, 2023 6:45 pm

The Perilous Forest

"That is just what I was testing," Wolstan says to Gareth. "I believe the man is as he is, and that we have indeed been granted passage. We should hurry on for the House of God, where hopefully we will find answers and not yet more questions."

OOC:

All good to press ahead here. Will the guide come with us the whole way, so that we also get safe passage back?

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Apr 2, 2023 6:55 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Okay by me to press on and follow the barbarian’s cue to ‘go’

King Arthur

Qralloq

Apr 2, 2023 7:22 pm

The Perilous Forest

Several hours later...

After pressing through the forest road, you arrive at Brown Cloister. It's a small church, nestled in the trees, with a long house behind for habitation. A woman sees you and runs inside as you ride up, obviously alarmed by the clatter of weapons and armor that precede you.

Pelox stops in sight of the church, and dismounts his horse, stepping into a small clearing off the road. He points to himself and says, "Stop," and stretches his legs. He appears to be intending to wait for you.

Maid Maude

"Oh it's so pretty here. I had wondered why anyone would want to live so very far away from everything." Of course, she doesn't really have a choice in such matters, few do range far from where they're born. But at some point, someone came way out here to the edge of the world, and chose to stay.

kwll

Apr 3, 2023 3:14 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred nods at Pelox in a sign of understanding and dismounts. "This is a house of God, I propose we go there on foot." he says, with a quite serious tone.

Last edited April 4, 2023 8:00 am

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Apr 3, 2023 4:34 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gregor nods in agreement with Wilfred about approaching the monastery on foot. He says, to the barbarian "Thank you Pelox," and dismounts as well.

"Perhaps there is a proper stable on the grounds." He states as he stands next to his horse holding its reins.

OOC:

Is there any obvious visible place to bring the horses on the monestary grounds?

Last edited April 3, 2023 4:35 pm

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Apr 3, 2023 6:06 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth grudgingly dismounts. Not because he thinks the idea is wrong but mostly because his excessive mead consumption is still making itself known.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Apr 4, 2023 1:53 am

The Perilous Forest

Pelox responds at his name, but only nods, not showing any understanding.

You're not sure where horses might be stabled. There are no obvious stables, or even hitching posts. Some wear on a few nearby trees tells you than perhaps visitors on horseback came to a similar conclusion and just wrapped their reins around a convenient, smaller oak.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Apr 4, 2023 7:05 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan dismounts and leads his horse to a tree where he secures it, pats it on the side, and then removes his helmet. Putting it under his arm, he looks to his fellows, nods, then approaches the building.

"Hail!" he says loudly as they approach the door. "Fine lady and yon priests and brothers, we are Knights of Britain, the King's men, come to have discourse with you. We intend you no trouble. May we enter?"

kwll

Apr 4, 2023 8:02 am

The Perilous Forest

Wilfred binds his horse as well, and follows Wolstan near the house entrance.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Apr 4, 2023 2:59 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gareth searches for a suitable tree and tying his mount there follows the others. When he sees the lady take flight back into the house he wonders at her shyness, and places his hand on the hilt of his sword, but then realizes that with all their commotion, anyone would, nay should be alarmed at their arrival.

"As my good fellow knight has said, we are no threat to you madam. Please give us an audience," he shouts from outside the house.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Apr 4, 2023 4:07 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gregor ties his horse and follows the others.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Apr 5, 2023 1:41 am

The Perilous Forest

The church doors open, and the woman from before comes out, then steps aside and a thin, severe looking man comes out.

Father Dyddion

"Children, welcome to Brown Cloister. I am the abbott, Father Dyddion. I don't recall ever receiving a delegation so far from Camelot. Come inside and find peace."

He has the look of a weasel, but the girl, and a boy of low birth cleaning the floor of the church, don't seem abused.

kwll

Apr 6, 2023 10:03 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred removes his helm, then return the Abbott's greeting while entering the house: "Hello Father Dyddion, and well met. It's been an awkward trip going here. Have you had any dealings with one Verinvox and his people lately? And what about his councelor, brother Tafwick, do you know him?"

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Apr 7, 2023 3:01 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan comes inside as well, pleased to be out of the elements for the first time in quite a span. He stamps the mud from his boots, secures his helm and shield, hangs his cloak, and turns to face Dyddion as well. He's in no mood to brook pleasantries, and his manner is direct. "Your hospitality will not go unnoticed," he says as Wilfred asks his questions. When that exchange finishes, he asks his own.

"We seek the Countess... the Earl's wife. We've been told she's here. Is this true? If so, we need audience with her, Father."

King Arthur

Qralloq

Apr 7, 2023 3:08 am

The Perilous Forest

Father Dyddion

He steps back into the church, a gesture telling you you're welcome to follow. He walks side by side with Sir Wilfred and Sir Wolstan. "Ah, Veringvox, yes, a troublesome man. Deeply heathen, his soul with burn and he leads his people to their immortal ruin. If you saw him, you would have seen my apprentice with him, Brother Tafwick. We have hopes of conversion, but they're proud people, set in their ways. It may take generations to wean them from the teet of idolatry and pagan rites."

He sits on a chair near the front, beckoning you each to stand or sit as you will, and converse.

"They're good people at heart, save for the wickedness of their old ways. Ignorance of the serpent allows it entry into your garden."

To Sir Wolstan, he says, "Of course, she is here."

The young girl you saw outside curtseys. She may be 16 or 17 years of age, and is uncommonly fair with dark eyes haunted by her past.

kwll

Apr 7, 2023 8:44 am

The Perilous Forest

Once inside Sir Wilfred sheds his arms and cloak as well. When seeing the young lady approach he performs a courteous bow, without too much emphasis, and says: "It is a pleasure to meet you my lady. I hope we didn't frighten you too much."

King Arthur

Qralloq

Apr 7, 2023 2:10 pm

The Perilous Forest

Countess Cynewise

She looks to the Abbott for reassurance and then giggles a little. "I'm a goose. I thought you might be bandits, or worse, my husband's men!"

The Abbott clears his throat in a most disapproving fashion.

She squints at him and then says, "That was unkind of me. I'm Cynewise. Who be you, sir good knights?"

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Apr 7, 2023 2:33 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gregor follows the knights inside and, if Sir Wolston or Sir Wilfred don't make a general introduction for the party, will introduce himself to Cynewise as Sir Gregor Gildon. Otherwise, Gregor will just listen and let Wolston engage with the Earl's wife and Father Dyddion.

Though, he does look to see if Maid Maude and Fenwick followed everyone inside. If they have not, he'll motion for them to join and quietly (as not to disturb the conversation that Wolston engaged) tell them, "I'm sure all are welcome here. This is God's house."

Last edited April 7, 2023 2:35 pm

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Apr 7, 2023 2:50 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth instantly dislikes the Abbott and remains on guard in his mind but removes his hand from the hilt of his sword as a fake gesture of trust. He nods curtly and then wonders if they might find a chance to be alone with the boy or girl if Dyddion proves to be useless. He waits to see how he answers Sir Wolstan.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Apr 7, 2023 2:56 pm

The Perilous Forest

The other two follow you in, and Fenwick steps to the side, as if a guard inside the door, but that's just where he finds himself comfortable.

Maid Maude

She whispers a thanks to Sir Gregor, standing beside him. She whispers, her lips barely moving, "That's the Countess there. She looks better, this place must be good for her. I do hope I can give her my hello."

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Apr 7, 2023 4:58 pm

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan has a little trouble not raising his eyebrows as the young lady identifies and introduces herself. He can’t quite place why, but he expected to find a more mature woman, not a filly who doesn’t mind her tongue with strangers. So be it — perhaps the mystery can be unraveled faster as a result.

"Countess Cynewise," the man says with a deep bow, "I am Sir Wolstan, of Glengrave, brother to the late Lord there. King Arthur has charged my fellow knights and I," — the others have a chance to introduce themselves at this point — "with discovering what game it is your husband is playing. We do not mean to impose on you, but seek to understand why you are here, what the Earl has planned, and how we might rectify the situation."

To the priest, the knight adds, "Is there a place where we may speak in privacy and comfort, Abbott?"

Last edited April 8, 2023 4:24 am

King Arthur

Qralloq

Apr 7, 2023 8:04 pm

The Perilous Forest

Father Dyddion

He looks at the girl, and then at you. He's obviously hesitant, but ... you're not simple sellswords.

He leans close and says, "I'm not prone to leaving her with unknown men, regardless of your quality. It is my sworn duty to see to her safety. Would it be acceptable if I left you alone with her here, in the church, while I watch from outside," he holds up a hand, adding, "Out of earshot. For proprieties sake. I do not want to impugn your honour, sir, but I have other oaths to adhere to."

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Apr 7, 2023 9:26 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth, loath to greet the slimy priest, simply does not. After listening to how the interview will take place he offers to make sure father Dyddion will be safe outside.

"I will step outside with you, father. You can never be too sure of what criminal elements are about." Gareth did not think for a moment that the Abbott would actually be out of earshot.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Apr 8, 2023 4:45 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan nods at Father Dyddion, while also keeping the eye of the girl. A noblewoman, doubtless -- but she seems just a girl.

"I understand, Abbott. I give you my word no harm will come to Countess Cynewise during our visit. And I do hope that you appreciate that just as you do not know us... we do not know you." He's looking at the young woman as he finishes. "My lady, this is only to allow you to speak freely if you wish."

Qralloq

Apr 8, 2023 2:47 pm

The Perilous Forest

Father Dyddion

Father Dyddion accepts these terms and steps outside in the sunshine. He looks around taking in the day, and then about twenty paces from the door turns around and watches. His hands are ensconced in his deep sleeves.

Countess Cynewise

The countess looks at Sir Wolstan with some curiosity, and then a little fear as something occurs to her. "I won't go back, sir. If you attempt to drag me, I will fight you, sir. God will protect me." Her eyes glaze over a little, the thousand yard stare of looking into a haunted past, and she nearly silently adds, "Only God."

Outside, beside Father Dyddion, Gareth can nearly make our her initial words. Something about "I will fight you".

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Apr 8, 2023 3:11 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth sneers inwardly at the priest when the man does not acknowledge him standing right there beside him. No doubt the man of the cloth considers this a slight which of course is nothing to Gareth. Ordinarily, he would have simply ignored the man. But he does feel that Dyddion is too close to the door and sure enough, some words can be heard coming from within.

"I'll have you move further away from the door, priest, as you are not yet out of earshot." Gareth turns to face the priest, placing his bulk between the man and the door. The knight's tone leaves no question as to what might happen should the priest decide not to move away.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Apr 8, 2023 3:28 pm

The Perilous Forest

Father Dyddion

"Oh?" he asks, as if surprised and somewhat insulted. He takes five steps back, and then three more. "Satisfied?" he says with a distasteful sneer.

From here, Gareth can no longer make out their words inside the church.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Apr 8, 2023 4:20 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Yes. This will do, priest." He spits out the last word, disgust evident in his tone. He won't be cajoled into any further discussions with the man and stands squarely at the entrance, his eyes fixed on the door.

kwll

Apr 8, 2023 7:07 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred decides to stay with the countess with Sir Wolstan. "Something very bad must have happened there, for you to fight the simple idea to go back there so vehemently." he says to her, in response to her last words. "We don't mean to pry, but would it be possible for you to explain the reasons of your resolve?"

King Arthur

Qralloq

Apr 9, 2023 2:46 am

The Perilous Forest

Outside Brown Cloister

Father Dyddion

He watches the goings on, keeping a watchful eye over his ward. "What did you hope to find out here, young man? You have some pressing purpose."

.

.

.

Within Brown Cloister

Countess Cynewise

"You are too forward, sir. My reasons are my own, good knight." Does she want to speak, or does she value her dignity and station too much.

This would be a Presence-Glamourie test if you're using your masculine wiles on the fair sex, or Presence-Courtesie if you're using etiquette and diplomacy with this higher ranking person. If Sir Wolstan and Sir Gregor wish to contribute to gaining her confidence, make similar tosses and your successes will each add a coin to Sir Wilfred's pool.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Apr 9, 2023 4:40 am

The Perilous Forest

Gregor pipes in. "Countess, forgive us for being so forward. But be assured that Sir Wolston’s and Sir Wilfred's invitation for you to speak freely is only meant in concern of your well being. We have not come to bring you back as you fear, especially if you are safe here and desire to remain. Instead we seek your help to understand why the people your husband is charged to protect are not safe in his lands."

OOC:

Gregor's contribution

Last edited April 9, 2023 4:45 am

Rolls

Presense w/ Courtesy - (3d2-3)

(211) - 3 = 1

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Apr 9, 2023 5:10 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan's jaw tightens as one of his companions once again pushes too far, too quickly. Sir Wilfred's words are not ill-chosen, but they come in a rush, straight at the young noblewoman.

Gregor softens the approach, and Sir Wolstan tries to do the same, starting with a nod.

"Countess -- no one intends to move you from this place. Though we do seek to understand if you are safe here, given our nature, and our own vows. The Brown Cloister is far removed from Britain's settled lands, and we have traveled far to see you. Firstmost to make sure of your health and well-being. Seeing those, it is as Sir Gregor has said. We only seek to understand the circumstances that have put you here, and otherwise caused such a stir in your husband's domain."

Turning, he reveals the presence of Maid Maude. "Also, we have escorted a visitor here."

Rolls

Presence | Courtesy - (5d2-5)

(11221) - 5 = 2

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Apr 9, 2023 10:55 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Why to assure us of the countess Cynewise's safety of course." Gareth has no intention of speaking any more to the man than is absolutely necessary.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Apr 10, 2023 2:50 am

The Perilous Forest

Within Brown Cloister

Countess Cynewise

"Maude? Is that you? Oh, Maude, I've missed you." The maid you brought runs forward and they clasp arms like old friends.

Maid Maude

"They're good men, Arthur's men, m'lady. You can trust them." Maid Maude steps back, and curtseys.

Countess Cynewise

"It was that witch. She told me she'd see me bare her child and then in childbirth, I'd be dead. She cursed me barren, and I fled here so that her wroth would not harm others. She had her eye on Earl Parwick and there was nothing I could do. I fought her, I did, and when I went to take to my lord husband, he only smirked and said he was aware of everything that went on in his castle." She clutches a hand to her throat. "What could I do when my own husband schemes to replace me and my children through witchcraft?"

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Apr 10, 2023 3:23 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wolstan is first pleased at the reunion, at the glee on the faces of the two women, but storm clouds gather in the man's expression when there's talk of treachery, of murder, and of witchery. Finally, the truth begins to reveal itself, but it is not what the man expects... and it is not welcome.

OOC:

Letting the others respond here first...

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Apr 10, 2023 3:41 am

The Perilous Forest

"My Lady, sorry to remind you of that you have fought hard to put behind you. You are beginning to reveal the root of the Earl's wrongdoings. Such unspeakable evil toward you, Countess. I'm sure it is hard, but we appreciate your strait-forward honesty. None we have spoken to have been as true as you...except Maide Maude here. She has risked much to journey first to find and seek aid from us and then to meet you here. Her bravery has uncovered other dealings of the Earl as well."

Gregor turns to Maid Maude, "perhaps you would be willing to relate to the Countess what you saw in secrecy from the cover of the closet."

kwll

Apr 10, 2023 10:26 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred is also astonished by what he hears. When the maid has told her tale, he asks in the most courteous way possible: "Did your lord husband make a direct threat to you? And did he make any move to stop you from coming here?"

King Arthur

Qralloq

Apr 10, 2023 4:49 pm

The Perilous Forest

Maid Maude

Maude repeats her tale, of overhearing the Earl speaking with the man about paying the bandits.

Countess Cynewise

Cynewise is confused by the story, not understanding why such a transaction would occur, or to what purpose. She expresses such.

When Sir Wilfred asks about threats, she responds, "It was his idea to ensconce me here, and it was the best option for me as well. He saves face for a wife who bears him not sons, and I no longer need suffer his presence. Oh, it is a good life here, with a peace I've never before enjoyed. Father Dyddion is a distant man of dark humours, but he leaves me be." She pulls her shawl tighter. "It is not with the comforts I've known for all my life, but God's light shines brightest when there are fewer distractions."

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Apr 11, 2023 5:15 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan is quiet, lost in thought for a moment as he half-listens to the other knights ask their questions, and Cynewise's responses.

"This witch," he finally says, to Maude as much as the Countess, "is this the woman... who is with the Earl now? Has she cast some spell on him? On others in his court?"

Regardless of the answer, he wonders aloud further. "And how did this sorceress come to know you and your husband, Cynewise? Forgive these indelicate queries, but there is much at risk here, including your continued safety. In the name of the King, we will be righting these wrongs."

King Arthur

Qralloq

Apr 11, 2023 2:27 pm

The Perilous Forest

Countess Cynewise

She holds a hand to her breast, as if overcome and needing a moment to compose herself. She then looks out the window. "I married young, as young as can still be proper. She lived in the woods farther in the wilds, just on the edge of the Earl's claimed territory, near the Swamp of Peril. She came to the wedding. She argued with the Earl during the feast afterwards, while I was dancing with a courtier. When I asked him after about it, he said, 'The harridan is jealous I didn't choose her. As if I would take a peasant to wife.' He said it just right, and I put it from mind. Afterwards, after the troubles with my pregnancy, I saw her once in the back halls. No one else had seen her, but life got worse. He turned from me, we fought often. I sensed she was near, but never laid eyes on her again. Eventually I came here, to escape my lord husband's displeasure and wroth."

Maid Maude

Maid Maude, a peasant girl herself, feels terribly for the young countess' travails. She says quietly, with intense compassion, "Yes, m'lady. Shezbaz is now in the Earl's bower."

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Apr 11, 2023 2:37 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Just to clarify, no one here is saying that Maid Maude’s boss, the Earl’s mistress, is the one and the same as the Shezbaz the witch, right?

King Arthur

Qralloq

Apr 11, 2023 2:44 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

It seems that Maid Maude just confirmed that. Cecil the Collector did refer to the witch as Shezbaz.

kwll

Apr 12, 2023 9:36 am

The Perilous Forest

"There is obviously more to this woman than we thought..." says Sir Wilfred pensively, referring to the so called witch. "Is there anyone who could tell us about her, and where she comes from? Is it far from here?"

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Apr 13, 2023 4:40 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan nods sympathetically as Cynewise relates her tragic story. "My lady. This has all been so tragic. I'm sorry for your suffering and treatment. The Pendragon would be aghast. We will make this witch, Shezbaz, answer for her crimes."

OOC:

Digging this scene. Just one thing I'm unclear on. Has Cynewise told us what happened with her pregnancy? Did she carry to term? Lose the baby? Is she obviously with child?

King Arthur

Qralloq

Apr 13, 2023 5:21 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

She has not spoken of her possible pregnancy. If she is, she is not visually "showing" that she is with child.

Countess Cynewise

"I'm sorry, good knight. I know nothing of the witch or her abode."

Maid Maude

Maid Maude says, "I think I know where she lives, if rumours are true at least. It is several hours ride south and west of the Earl's castle." She doesn't add 'peasant' as a descriptor to the rumours, despite the accuracy of such, as it would seem that she would be forgetting her own low birth.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Apr 13, 2023 8:45 pm

The Perilous Forest

Outside Brown Cloister
Gareth softens a bit as they stand there in silence. It wouldn't do to have word get around that he was disrespectful to a man of the church. After all the knights did pledge loyalty to it. He was a maverick in some ways, yes, but he knew he needed to take care if he wanted to continue with his sometimes less-than-knightly behavior.

"What keeps you occupied out here all day other than the church necessaries and the care of your charge? Is the Countess Cynewise, happy?"

Last edited April 13, 2023 8:50 pm

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Apr 14, 2023 5:16 am

The Perilous Forest

Nodding at Maid Maude, Sir Wolstan says, "I remember hearing that. We will seek out her hovel, and we will burn it -- it and all the heretical witch things she keeps there. We will end your exile, my lady, and clear the fog from your husband's mind. God wills it."

The man wants to ask about Cynewise's pregnancy, but thinks better of it. Instead, if they can get Maude alone, she might know the tale of what happened...

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Apr 14, 2023 12:33 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Indeed Sir Wolston. We should burn the witch's hovel. But what can make us sure that the witch will be there as we approach and burn it? Without the witch destroyed can we be sure the Earl's mind will be clear of her cursed fog."

He turns to Maude and compares her frame to that of the Countess.

"Maid Maude, you have been brave to find us and accompany us on this quest to put things right. Your determination has been valiant and I appreciate the peril you with your man-at-arms Fenwick have willingly engaged in to join us on this journey. I understand if you've had enough and wish to have no direct dealings with this witch Shebaz. But...if you are bold enough to see this through to the end, and you and my fellow knights would entertain it, I have an idea."

"What if you masquerade as the Countess and we make it known as we return that the 'countess' has personally charged us to escort her to face Shebaz directly. The witch would surely be lured into a meeting with the Countess. Then we could destroy her and her hovel. We couldn't ask Countess Cynewise to actually face her oppressor, but if she thinks you are the countess, we would have a chance."

Gregor secretly hopes that the Countess would volunteer to face her enemy and not have Maude stand in for her.

"Otherwise, my suggestion is for us to first seek the advice of Merlin before attempting to burn the witch's hovel."

Last edited April 14, 2023 12:36 pm

King Arthur

Qralloq

Apr 14, 2023 3:33 pm

The Perilous Forest

Outside Brown Cloister

Father Dyddion

"It's difficult work out here in the wilds. In a abbey closer to a town, we could do less ourselves, but I didn't come here to avoid work. I came to save the heathens from their idolatrous ways. The Countess is a good woman, and the Earl gave me some funds so that I could keep her comfortable. I hired a few people, and purchased luxuries to make a more comfortable lodging for her. A feather mattress even. But I spend most of the days thatching the roof, or tending the garden. I'm more farmer than I am an abbott, truth be told, but it's God's work, and I'm thankful for that." He seems fond of the countess, and more so of his little cloister out in the wilderness.

Inside Brown Cloister

Countess Cynewise

Maid Maude immediately agrees to the request, but Cynewise touches her arm. She suddenly seems to grow older, in stature and countenance rather than any physical change. "Maude, I cannot ask you to risk this on my behalf. No, this is my fear to face, and I would be honored if you would be my handmaid once more. Will you ride with your lady to face the Shezbaz?"

Maid Maude

"Of course, countess. I am yours."

They clutch each other in friendship. "I do not have a horse, Sir Gregor."

Fenwick offers his. As is right.

"Then that is settled. We leave at once. Only, allow me some time to collect my things and dress to make the arrival as impactful as we can."

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Apr 15, 2023 2:05 am

The Perilous Forest

It was hard to keep from chafing. The Abbott was a pompous self-righteous ass but at least it was obvious that he cared for the countess and for that he was thankful. She seemed much better suited to be away from the dreadful earl and his harlot.

"I am glad that the countess is able to make a good life here then."

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Apr 16, 2023 2:41 am

The Perilous Forest

Red-faced, Wolstan has to choke back words when Sir Gregor suggests that Maude masquerade as the Countess... but the young noblewoman puts an end to the unchivalrous plan immediately, soothing the knight's rather traditional sensibilities.

"We thank you, my lady, for your willingness to do this. Too long has this witchery and subterfuge gone unaddressed. Together, we shall right this long catalogue of wrongs."

OOC:

Hut hut hut! However, whenever Maude is alone, or Wolstan can have a quiet word alone with the Countess, he will ask about the pregnancy. This can wait until we're on the road, though. No need to force the issue unlike SOME knights I know.

kwll

Apr 16, 2023 1:58 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred has difficulties hiding his surprise at the plan being discussed right before his eyes. But he decides to keep silent, after exchanging looks with Sir Wolstan and seeing that he is ready to go along with it.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Apr 17, 2023 2:41 pm

The Perilous Forest

Maid Maude retreats with the Countess to her room to change into travelling clothes and pack things for the journey and the ploy.

Father Dyddion reenters the church after they leave, and says, "You're welcome to stay and you can sleep on the floor in here, for only a modest tithe."

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Apr 18, 2023 3:08 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wolstan looks to his fellows. "What say you, good knights? Warm food, a roof and solid walls after so many days and nights afield?" If there is agreement, he nods at the man of the cloth, agreeing to the price.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Apr 18, 2023 3:33 am

The Perilous Forest

Gregor nods to Sir Wolston in agreement. "Food and a roof sounds welcome to me Sir Wolston."

OOC:

Gregor apparently has 5gp if coins are needed for the tithe

Last edited April 18, 2023 3:34 am

kwll

Apr 18, 2023 1:32 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred agrees to stay, and to contribute to the party's expenses.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Apr 20, 2023 2:08 am

The Perilous Forest

The abbott decides to slaughter a pair of chickens for dinner, and roast them. A warm stew and country bread will accompany, he decides. He leaves you to yourselves, and wanders off to attend to dinner. The simply boy follows and comes back with some heavy blankets for you to sleep on.

Maid Maude is invited to stay with the countess in her small hut, and Fenwick will like you, sleep on the church floor. He goes off to make himself useful chopping wood to keep your lordships warm during the night. (He says that kindly enough.)

Dinner goes a few hours later, served on a long board shaved flat, that the abbott and the simpleton carry in and rest on a back bench. Bowls are available, but you each have your own eating bowl and utensils. The two women return to the church to sup with you all.

Father Dyddion says a prayer and blessing for the meal."Glory be to the Father, to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and forever and throughout the ages. Almighty God and our Lord Jesus Christ, whose name is above all things, we give Thee thanks and praise Thee because Thou hast deigned to give us a portion of Thy goods and nourishment for our body."

kwll

Apr 20, 2023 8:40 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred follows the prayer with much devotion, praising the Lord for his meal. "Amen" he concludes after the Father ends talking. "May our quest for truth be successful, and help us restore peace in these parts!"

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Apr 20, 2023 4:32 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Amen" says Gregor in unison with Wilfred and the others.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Apr 21, 2023 3:19 am

The Perilous Forest

"Your hospitality will not go unmentioned, Abbott," Wolstan says after the blessing, and his first few slurping bites from his bowl of stew.

OOC:

Should we all remove one coin?

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Apr 21, 2023 2:59 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth follows Father Dyddion back into the church. At mealtime, he wonders what plans were hatched while he was keeping an eye on the priest outside. He eats heartily and resolves to ask about the plans once the priest leaves them alone.

kwll

Apr 21, 2023 4:25 pm

The Perilous Forest

"How many people are about your domain?" asks Sir Wilfred to the abbot, genuinely interested.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Apr 23, 2023 4:56 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

A coin is fair enough tithe.

Father Dyddion

"There are few, son, who heed Christ the Lord out here in the wilds. I have hope that the many hundreds of heathens who live here will turn from their hateful ways and embrace the Good Book. It will be a life's work, but He will see me through it."

The Christian faith is new to Britain, and Arthur was one of the first nobles to embrace it.

That night as you may sleeping in the church floor, the Pictish warrior (who when asked gently refused to enter the church and sup with you) wakes you in the night. His incomprehensible words of his language are scattered with a strong wind outside, but he gestures animatedly toward the road, and pumps his spear a few times.

Danger nearby? Or approaching?

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Apr 23, 2023 5:56 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gregor looks to see that his companions are awakened by the commotion. If any are not, he stirs any them saying, "The Pict is urging our attention to something." He then grabs his sword without fully armoring up and waits for the others.

Last edited April 23, 2023 5:57 pm

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Apr 23, 2023 8:31 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wolstan is slower to wake than some of the others, and he blinks away his troubling dreams as he sits up in his nightshirt. When he understands what's happening, he dresses quickly. "To arms!" he says, pulling on trousers and boots, tunic and chain shirt. Greaves, shield, and sword are next, and then the man is rushing after the others.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Apr 23, 2023 8:53 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Good knights, arise quickly!" Gareth shouts when he blinks an open eye and sees the pict in such a state of agitated excitement that he is sure nothing good is happening outside. Quickly he jumps up, attaches his sword, puts on his helmet, and waits for the others alongside Sur Gregor.

kwll

Apr 24, 2023 7:55 am

The Perilous Forest

When awoken, Sir Wilfred opts for the quick setup and only dresses with his chain shirt, then takes his sword and helmet and rushes out. "Where is it?" he asks the Pict, not sure if he can understand.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Apr 30, 2023 4:13 pm

The Perilous Forest

Stepping outside, partially dressed and Sir Wolstan still struggling with his armor, the other three of you see the pictish warrior readying a spear as if to recieve a charge, standing on the butt while holding the point toward the trees. You hear the commotion then, as if something, or many somethings, are trampling recklessly through the bush.

You have only a moment before it is upon you.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Apr 30, 2023 4:49 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gregor makes a stand next to the other knights and the Pict with essentially nothing but his sword. He also calls to Fenwick, " Master Fenwick, depending on what emerges from the trees, you should be ready to make sure the Countess and Maid Maude are safe and be ready to move them in case of trouble."

Last edited April 30, 2023 8:12 pm

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Apr 30, 2023 5:41 pm

The Perilous Forest

"There are many of them but how many it's too soon to say. I am going to try and kill one of them."

Gareth flings his lance at the pict. first enemy that appears.

Last edited April 30, 2023 8:18 pm

Rolls

Arms - (4d2-4)

(1211) - 4 = 1

Brawn - (3d2-3)

(122) - 3 = 2

King Arthur

Qralloq

Apr 30, 2023 7:56 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

I'll remind you that the pictish warrior, Pelox, escorted you from Veringvox and lead you hear safely. He opted to sleep outside rather than in the church, and now is giving you warning of some peril.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

May 1, 2023 6:59 am

The Perilous Forest

"Bar the door!" Wolstan shouts a the priest and the women as he goes. "Let no one in!"

OOC:

Does Wolstan get outside in time? Happy to roll for it if necessary.

kwll

May 1, 2023 8:09 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred stands near the pictish warrior, and tries to place himself between the incoming danger and the house, his arms ready. He braces himself to face whatever is coming his way.

King Arthur

Qralloq

May 2, 2023 3:42 am

The Perilous Forest

A wall of wild boar burst from the thicket, squeals of rage and madness loosening your bowels. Each of the beasts weighs more than an armored knight, their tusks shining with flecks of foamy saliva, their eyes red and rolling with uncontrolled rage.

Pelox lowers his spear further, but is uncertain what will happen in the next moments.

Each of you face this threat alone or together, how you receive the wild charge will determine the course of the night.

Sir Wolstan struggles out of the church, tying a greave into place. Reinforcements perhaps.

This is mad mass combat rules. Put together your coin pools and make a roll. You're outnumbered two to one, so you'll take a -2 modifier on your throws.

You make two throws each round. Battle+Presence followed by Battle+Survival, and normal personal combat modifiers (armor, weapons, horses) are used for both.

So let's start with round 1 (of 2). Make your throws and pray to your ancestors.

kwll

May 2, 2023 12:03 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred does his best to face the incoming furry of the wild boar herd.

OOC:

Added +3 coins for the sword and medium armor. I considered Sir Wilfred was not mounted.

Rolls

Battle + Presence - (7d2-9)

(2222222) - 9 = 5

Battle + Brawn - (6d2-8)

(111211) - 8 = -1

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

May 2, 2023 2:10 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Giant pigs? What the ..."

Gareth quickly draws his sword and stands ready.

OOC:

He took +3 coins for medium armor and his sword.

Rolls

Battle + Presence - (5d2-4)

(21111) - 4 = 2

Battle + Survival - (4d2-3)

(2212) - 3 = 4

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

May 2, 2023 2:50 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Boars?! Here we go!"

OOC:

Not exactly sure I made the requested rolls properly but I added +1 to each for Gregor's sword

Last edited May 2, 2023 2:51 pm

Rolls

Battle w/ Presence 5+1 (sword) - (6d2-6)

(121211) - 6 = 2

Batte w/Brawn 4+1 - (4d2-4)

(1221) - 4 = 2

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

May 2, 2023 4:17 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

I actually didn't add the +1 to the Battle w/Brawn toss

Rolls

sword bonus (for battle w/Brawn toss) - (1d2-1)

(1) - 1 = 0

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

May 3, 2023 5:34 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Is a roll needed from Wolstan, or is he not on the scene yet? Also, do swords and armor count with PRE rolls? Not sure that they do. Lastly, I don’t have my book with me. What’s a survival roll? In this case Battle + Brawn?

King Arthur

Qralloq

May 3, 2023 12:56 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

The Battle Survival roll should be Battle+Brawn, sorry for the diffusion.

And Wolstan can participate, he's just not in the sorta shield wall.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

May 6, 2023 4:48 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Adding +1 for sword and +1 for partial armor...

Two successes with Presence, one with Brawn. And sorry for the delay!

Last edited May 6, 2023 4:49 am

Rolls

Battle + Presence - 2 +1 + 1 - (5d2-5)

(11212) - 5 = 2

Battle + Brawn - 2 +1 + 1 - (6d2-6)

(121111) - 6 = 1

kwll

May 6, 2023 12:43 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

I applied a -2 modifier on my throws, but I observe that I was the only one to do so. Did I misunderstand something?

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

May 6, 2023 2:27 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Looks like I conveniently overlooked that part of our GM’s toss request post. I can toss again.

King Arthur

Qralloq

May 6, 2023 4:59 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

I'll just interpret your tosses as needed, no need to edit them. I'll take the first coins flipped if you flipped too many, and add any if you were short.

Wildred: 4/3 +3 (sword + chainshirt) -2 (outnumbered) = 5/4 = 5/1
Gareth: 5/4 +2 (sword + helmet) -2 (outnumbered) = 5/4 = 1/3
Gregor: 5/4 +1 (sword) -2 (outnumbered) = 4/3 = 2/2
Wolstan: 5/6 +3 (sword + partial armor) -2 (outnumbered) = 6/7 = 2/1

Rolls

Extra coin for Wolstan's survival - (1d2)

(1) = 1

Wild enraged boars! - (5d2-5)

(12222) - 5 = 4

King Arthur

Qralloq

May 6, 2023 5:11 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

The battle is simple opposed rolls. The boars toss once and that's the target number for you all to beat.

We can see that:

Wildred won on Presence, lost on Survival, and loses 3 coins from Brawn.

Gareth lost on Presence, lost on Survival, and loses 3 coins from Presence and 1 from Brawn.

Gregor lost on Presence, lost on Survival, and loses 2 coins from Presence and 2 from Brawn.

Wolstan lost on Presence, lost on Survival, and loses 2 coins from Presence and 3 from Brawn.

Wildred stands bravely and is plowed beneath the hooves of the boars, gashes in his skin from their tusks.

Gareth balks but holds his ground and somehow survives the charge wearing only a helmet, but blood leaks from his many wounds.

Gregor similarly tries to hold his feet and score some hits but he too is wounded, there are simply too many tusks to avoid them all.

Lastly, Wolstan bringing up the rear backs up his companions, but as the boars charge through or over his companions, they manage to strike fierce blows back and forth.

Fenwick and the pict Pelox charge from the side and back and add their own blows, and Fenwick takes some wounds.

Tough first round. Wilfred is down. And everyone but Pelox had lost some coins. The boars have lost one, but just the one, so they'll be tossing 4 coins next.

Each of you, except Wilfred, toss Battle+Presence and Battle+Brawn again, but remember your diminished Brawn and Presence scores.

Rolls

Fenwick - (4d2-2)

(2221) - 2 = 5

Pelox - (4d2-2)

(2222) - 2 = 6

Secret Roll

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

May 6, 2023 11:51 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gareth clutches all his bloody places and wonders where his clothes went, but only for a moment as he gets ready to face down boars again. He picks up his dropped sword and stands ready.

Rolls

Battle Presence - (2d2-2)

(21) - 2 = 1

Battle Brawn - (3d2-3)

(211) - 3 = 1

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

May 7, 2023 6:10 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

I think I did account for those -2s.
Q, what's up with the "Extra coin for Wolstan's survival" roll? Did I miscalculate?

"Holy Father in Heaven!" Wolstan cries as they take the field, half-prepared, and as they discover that there are massive, charging wild boars everywhere! "Stand together, men!" he yells.

But it's no use -- none of them can stand against the mass and might of their porcine attackers, and blood flows as gashes are opened from sharp tusks. "Sir Wilfred! No!" the knight shouts as his fellow drops. The sight brings a bellow from Wolstan's lungs, and he just fights harder!

OOC:

Oh dear. Also, Windy, did you add in your sword and such?

Last edited May 7, 2023 6:15 am

Rolls

Battle (2) + Presence (1) + Sword (1) + Partial Armor (1) - (5d2-5)

(11111) - 5 = 0

Battle (2) + Brawn (1) + Sword (1) + Partial Armor (1) - (5d2-5)

(22112) - 5 = 3

King Arthur

Qralloq

May 7, 2023 3:34 pm

The Perilous Forest

Harrigan says:

OOC:

I think I did account for those -2s.
Q, what's up with the "Extra coin for Wolstan's survival" roll? Did I miscalculate?

OOC:

I gave you two points for your partial armor.

Gareth rolled right: +1 sword +1 helmet -2 outnumbered

Harrigan

May 8, 2023 5:58 am

The Perilous Forest

Qralloq says:

OOC:

I gave you two points for your partial armor.

OOC:

Ah, well you are too kind sir. I'll take that again if it's on offer, as I modeled it at +1 again. ;)

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

May 8, 2023 4:08 pm

The Perilous Forest

Trying to stand his ground...

Rolls

Battle (1) + Presence (3-2) + Sword (1) - 2 (outnumbered) - (1d2-1)

(1) - 1 = 0

Battle (1) + Brawn (4-2) + Sword (1) - 2 (outnumbered) - (2d2-2)

(21) - 2 = 1

kwll

May 8, 2023 5:12 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Ah OK, It thought it was a flat -2 on the rolled score.

Anyway, Wilfred is down, so much for a perfect first roll (on 7 coins!)...

King Arthur

Qralloq

May 8, 2023 11:56 pm

The Perilous Forest

The boars trample and gore each of you in a rampage. They had been headed to overrun the small community, but your companions attempt to help turn the tide.

Wolstan scores a blow and the boars scatter.

In the aftermath, all of you are deeply wounded, Wolstan alone retaining his feet.

Three boars lay squealing, their bodies broken by sword and spear. Pelox puts them out of their misery, or rather, his as their squeals are quite alarming.

Combat is over. Wilfred, Gregor, and Gareth are stunned, and torn up a bit, but you'll recover quick enough. Perhaps a couple days rest and you'll be right as rain.

Rolls

Pelox, Fenwick - (3d2, 4d2)

3d2 : (221) = 5

4d2 : (1111) = 4

Boars - (4d2)

(1122) = 6

Secret Roll

kwll

May 9, 2023 7:56 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred is pleased to see that his companions prevailed. He removes his helmet in a last effort before falling unconscious...

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

May 10, 2023 5:51 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan, breathless, injured, and red-faced behind his helm, rouses his companions after the boars retreat. He grimaces as he helps each man to his feet, and there is much arm-grabbing, shoulder-clapping, and congratulating. These four have stood together on a battlefield now, and been blooded -- and won.

"The priest and his will eat well!" the knight say, gesturing to the dead boar as he wipes the blood from his sword and sheaths it.

Beneath the man's warm fellowship, though, lies a suspicion that this boar attack was no chance thing. That witchcraft was involved!

OOC:

Good fight, but I must admit that mechanically, I have no idea what just happened. :)

King Arthur

Qralloq

May 10, 2023 2:17 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

GM Fiat. In advance I determined the battle would last two rounds, they're wild animals not trained soldiers.

In that time, three of you had Brawn reduced to 0 and so fell. Only Wolstan, Pelox and Fenwick prevailed.

The Battle+ Presence rolls were for your own courage.
The Battle+ Brawn rolls were for your survival.
The boars roll as a group and that was your difficulty for your rolls. Any amount you beat them by reduced their coins, and vice versa.

In the first round, the boars rolled really well, so only Wilfred beat them, reducing them by one coin.

In the second round, everyone had lost more than the boars, and only Wolstan beat their rolls, reducing them by another coin.

After the two rounds, the boars fled as was the intention from the start.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

May 10, 2023 3:27 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth removes his helm and sits on the ground examining his wounds. He looks a little woozy but tries to remain conscious.

"Any of you good men have something to staunch the blood flow? I am in need of a few strips of cloth. Then we might feast on some boar!"

King Arthur

Qralloq

May 12, 2023 10:49 pm

The Perilous Forest

After two days, you're all feeling much more rested, your wounds restored, and full of more pork than you've had in a goodly while.

Father Dyddion explains after conversing with Pelox in halting Pictish, that Pelox feels that this was indeed a supernatural phenomenon. In fact, after the rampage, the tracks of the boars indicate that have returned to whereever they came from, care free and no longer consumed by rage.

The time comes then once more to travel back to the holdings of Earl Parwick, and confront him with the Countess Cynewise's assistance.

Your temporary loss of coins in Brawn and Presence is restored.

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

May 14, 2023 4:21 am

The Perilous Forest

As they prepare to set out, this time the knights are fully armed and armored; ready for whatever might lie ahead. The witch meant to not have them return, and that was all the more reason to make directly for the Earl.

"Bless us, and our journey, Father Dyddion," Wolstan says from his saddle, from where he sits near the Countless and her maid. "We go with the grace of Christ, but the Devil himself has been called upon by this bitch Shezbaz, it seems. Pray for us daily, holy man, that her spells and wiles trouble us no more."

OOC:

Ready steady, let's go.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

May 14, 2023 5:09 am

The Perilous Forest

Gregor is glad to be mended and ready to make the journey with the Countess now in the knights' care. After talk of supernatural forces motivating the stampede, he hopes the plan is prudent and that they are not underestimating the powers granted to the witch Shezbaz by the Devil. But Sir Wolston's farewell reminds Gregor that Grace is on their side. This helps to put his mind a bit at ease. Seeing that his companions and the women are ready, he nods a 'thank you' to Father Dyddion, and spurs on his horse.

Last edited May 14, 2023 5:10 am

King Arthur

Qralloq

May 14, 2023 3:47 pm

The Perilous Forest

Pelox leads you on foot again, your train a little slower for having the Countess accompany you. She is young, however, and we'll rested, so she rides Fenwick's horse ably. She and Maid Maude ride side by side when they can, their friendship rekindled by the several days they've spent together at the Brown Cloister.

The dehorsed man-at-arms brings up the rearguard, knowing Maid Maude is well protected among the solid knights. And the Countess, of course.

In this way, you return back out of the hills, into the earldom, if not quite into his controlled lands proper. Pelox navigates his way through various ambush points, the Pictish warriors allowing you to pass unmolested.

Veringvox

The chieftain Veringvox meets you, gives you some mead and rest, and offers you four hands of men (20) if you require backup.

Countess Cynewise

"Please, good sir knights, will you recite the plan so I understand what is expected of me?"

kwll

May 16, 2023 8:12 am

The Perilous Forest

"Won't Veringvox men be seen as a motive by the Earl to do us harm?" asks Sir Wilfred to his companions, prior to answering the countess question.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

May 17, 2023 5:37 am

The Perilous Forest

"Perhaps not, Sir Wilfred. How could the Earl openly object to us seeking to destroy the one known as Shezbaz the witch? Surely it is not common knowledge that the witch is his mistress and that he is in bed with the Devil."

If we make it know that we seek out the hovel of the witch Shebaz, and we mean to burn it, along with all the heretical things she keeps there as Sir Wolston suggested, the Pictish men offered by Chief Veringvox will reinforce the appearance of our resolve. Perhaps the charm that keeps the witch in the appearance of youth will be broken. Further, if Shebaz knows that the Countess means to face her and end her exile, then the witch may be drawn out. And if the witch tries to reroute us by commanding supernatural forces similar to mad boars, then--as Pelox himself has proven--the pict soldiers will be formidable allies.

Another thing for us to consider is that beside telling us that Shebaz' hovel lies south west of the Earl's keep, the tax collector Cecil warned us that the bandits have a camp in that direction as well."

OOC:

This post has been edited and also is meant for us to continue discussion and come to a consensus after Sir Wilfred's question.

Last edited May 17, 2023 5:58 pm

King Arthur

Qralloq

May 17, 2023 4:44 pm

The Perilous Forest

Recall: Maid Maude has confirmed that the Earl's mistress is the witch, Shezbaz. So she is likely in the Earl's keep. Indeed, Gareth has already, um, met her.

Qralloq says:

OOC:

It seems that Maid Maude just confirmed that. Cecil the Collector did refer to the witch as Shezbaz.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

May 17, 2023 4:49 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Thanks. I guess I was still a little fuzzy on that. It’s because how I worded my question that you quoted your response to here. In a little while I’ll rework my previous post with that knowledge solidly in mind

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

May 18, 2023 5:43 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan nods. He was about to say they would keep the heathens in reserve and not reveal their numbers until the Earl and the witch played their hands, but Sir Gregor's plan has some merit.

"M'lady, you deserve to not live in exile. We will burn the witch's hovel, take the she-devil's head, and free the Earl from her black sorcery. Your presence will help your husband remember himself, and his duties."

He makes no mention of the ludicrous plan to risk the Maid Maude, posing her as her mistress and dangling her in harm's way.

kwll

May 18, 2023 1:49 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Very well. The plan is a little blunt, but has the advantage of simplicity. Let's do that." Turning to the countess, he adds: "What is expected of you is to show yourself, countess. You can trust us to do all we can to protect you."

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

May 18, 2023 2:42 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Have no fear, for Sir Wolstan is right. We are just in our cause and will dispatch the witch forthwith. The earl will then surely see the light with the malevolence of the witch gone from his world once he lays eyes on you, he will again fall in love once released from the evil spell."

He ponders what powers the witch might use having seen what he deemed to be some example of it with the mad boars and wonders if they are up to the task of defeating evil witchery.

"As Sir Gregor has suggested, the witch may be compelled to play her hand in the light of day before us all."

Countess Cynewise

Qralloq

May 19, 2023 4:48 pm

The Perilous Forest

Countess Cynewise

"Very well then. Lead on and let me know if you require me to do anything."

She is unsure with your pictish vanguard, and your changing plans, but what does she know of such things? Nothing. She knows of keeping a household and some matters of being a lord, but little of witchhunting or insurrection.

You travel on, and enter the Earl's lands proper. Small cottages on plots of farmland dot the wilderness, becoming more frequent as you proceed.

When you come to a crossroad, Fenwick advises, "South the way we came to the keep, two hours or so, lords. Or west through the back ways of the Perilous Forest. There is an old Roman mine up there, copper I think it was, and more of those bandits, but it is the quicker way to the swamp where Shezbaz is said to keep her foul hut."

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

May 21, 2023 9:42 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth looks to the others after hearing Fenwick's assessment.

"What is it to be fellow knights? I say we go by way of the mine and sharpen our swords with a few more bandits for sport!"

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

May 21, 2023 11:42 pm

The Perilous Forest

"The back way and quicker way to the hovel by the mines sounds good. And if we do get a chance to sharpen our swords on the bandits Sir Gareth, perhaps we could let one escape so the witch may be informed of our presence…that is if the unearthly hag doesn’t already know somehow."

Gregor looks around up at the trees as if searching for spying eyes.

Last edited May 21, 2023 11:45 pm

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

May 22, 2023 3:52 am

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan listens to his fellows as he looks at the women they escort on this perilous journey. Looks at them and measures their endurance, their will for pressing on. More fighting is not what they all need, but the chance to cut off the witch from her power, or at least diminish it, is enticing indeed.

"Through the forest, past the mine, to the swamp," he says with a nod. "But of word getting to Shezbaz, no. We must prevent that, and keep the initiative as long as we can, knights."

kwll

May 22, 2023 9:49 am

The Perilous Forest

In the same fashion as Sir Wolstan, Sir Wilfred looks at the countess and the maid. "The prospect might sound dangerous, but be assured that my fellow knights and I will spare nothing, not even our lives, to protect you."

The forest, the mine and the swamp it is, the party has decided unanimously.

King Arthur

Qralloq

May 22, 2023 3:19 pm

The Perilous Forest

Several hours later...

You ride past the old mine, and follow a trail through the woods, mostly overgrown so you need to keep a watchful eye out for the horses footing. The trail through the hills climbs and falls repeatedly, the sparse trees giving way to gorse and heather.

https://www.beckythetraveller.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Quarry_Snowdonia_Slate_Trail_Wales_20220728_105017.jpg

You ride around a small lake, and at the far end, the stream that feeds it drains a swamp. Surely this is the witches swamp.

kwll

May 24, 2023 7:58 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred checks if there is a way to avoid the swamp, or to cross the lake. Failing that, he looks for the best path going through the swamp, and if he can find recent tracks of people or horses passing in the area.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

May 25, 2023 4:33 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gareth leans on the pommel of his saddle as he examines the lay of the land.

"I think it would be prudent to spread out and approach from more than one direction. Obviously, we have to avoid the lake and the swamp but we might be able to ford the stream or even walk within or along the banks. Or, come to think of it, perhaps some of us could let the horses swim the lake, but that might prove to be a little risky."

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

May 25, 2023 4:55 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

What is our intention? Isn’t the witch hovel in the swamp…as far as we know anyway. Did we already ride around the lake?

Last edited May 25, 2023 4:59 pm

King Arthur

Qralloq

May 27, 2023 2:58 am

The Perilous Forest

After searching the area, you find a trail that leads into the swamp. From there, you need to pick your way carefully lest your horses flounder in the muck. The Picts accompanying you seem superstitious about the swamp and hang way back, but it isn't too terribly long before you come across a hovel. Bones and other charms hang from branches around the area, a dead snake lies on the ground before you. The hovel itself seems cursed, like only someone who has given up on life would live inside such a dwelling.

There appears to be no signs of life, other than the murky hate of the swamp, all decay and rot yet oozing with insects, amphibians, and snakes.

kwll

May 28, 2023 9:38 am

The Perilous Forest

"I will go inside this hovel. Maybe someone can accompany me while the others stay with the ladies and the picts?" proposes Sir Wilfred.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

May 28, 2023 3:57 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Yes Sir Wilfred, you shouldn’t go alone. Who knows what we’ll find in there. But I think examining the place for clues of any sort before burning it down is a good idea. I’ll accompany you."

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

May 28, 2023 5:03 pm

The Perilous Forest

Wolstan mislikes this terrain, treacherous as it is for their horses, and he nods at the plan. "I shall stay back to protect the Countess and her maid. Search that hovel, kill that which dwells within, and then burn and scatter the loathsome place. Every bit of it."

The man's sword rings free from its scabbard and his shield is on his arm. His visor stays up, so that his senses remain keen.

Last edited May 28, 2023 5:05 pm

King Arthur

Qralloq

May 28, 2023 5:33 pm

The Perilous Forest

Entering the hovel, you hear if not see the scurrying of swamp creatures fleeing behind countless things under the roof. Snakes and mice, bugs and spiders.

The hovel contains a multitude of herbs and plants hanging from the rafters, enough that you would need to duck to pass through it. There are a number of work surfaces, crude tables mostly, fashioned by impatient and unskilled hands. Upon the surfaces you see junk, objects (plants, powders, rocks, wood shavings, animal bones, ...) of dubious value in partial stages of strange preparations.

The one thing that does come to view however, are a pair of pewter tablets. Both have been carved with markings in treescript, mystical pleas to the spirits and gods.

OOC:

If any of you are skilled at things occult, you could toss some coins to interpret the tablets.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

May 28, 2023 6:09 pm

The Perilous Forest

"I will stay back and watch for the witch's return then with Sir Wolstan. Good luck to you sirs." Gareth is already scanning the countryside.

Last edited May 28, 2023 6:11 pm

Harrigan

May 28, 2023 6:44 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

He says, chickenshitedly. ;)

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

May 28, 2023 7:24 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Being low bred and all, maybe there was a religious group or something in Gregory’s original village that adopted Christianity but held on to some pagan divination customs and such. Perhaps they warned and instructed the villagers about flooding droughts and stuff in the old school ways….or not? In any case, what stat would we use to toss for occult knowledge?

Last edited May 28, 2023 7:24 pm

Windyridge

May 28, 2023 7:25 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Aha! But that's where you are wrong good sir. T'is the ladies he wants to be near!

King Arthur

Qralloq

May 28, 2023 7:47 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

There are no good skills for such, so flipping Presence alone would be the best bet.

Also, I've been somewhat generous about how early was the Christian invasion of Britain. At this time, Arthur is the first and possibly only Christian monarch, and the new faith is not very widespread, so the old ways are still just 'the ways' in most of Britain. However, reading treescript or understanding the implements of pagan witchcraft is more than just common knowledge.

Let the fates decide! Throw two successes and I'll explain what you have seen.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

May 28, 2023 8:53 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Here goes then…

Rolls

Occult check: - (3d2-3)

(122) - 3 = 2

kwll

May 29, 2023 9:01 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred was an early adopter of the new faith, and disliked anything occult. However, something might have transpired from the folks he was surrounded with when he was younger...

... and maybe he was listening more than he should to that old hag who lived nearby and was visiting the castle from time to time.

Last edited May 29, 2023 9:02 am

Rolls

Occult check - (4d2-4)

(2112) - 4 = 2

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

May 29, 2023 3:04 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Rolling

...

Rolls

Presence - (1d2-1)

(1) - 1 = 0

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

May 29, 2023 3:10 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

We're still outside, Sir Gareth. ;)

King Arthur

Qralloq

May 29, 2023 4:56 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gregor and Wilfred exchange ideas and come to the conclusion that the pewter tablets are curse tablets. These are curses prepared by witches usually to control animals or influence people.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

May 30, 2023 2:53 am

The Perilous Forest

Gregor also discusses what to do next with Sir Wilfred.

"Do you think if these tablets melt in a fire that razes this hovel back into the swamp, any curse they enact will be broken?"

As he confers with Wilfred he urgently looks around the room for any oils, lamps, and other flammable materials and quickly begins to gather them in the center of the hovel's floor.

kwll

May 30, 2023 10:50 am

The Perilous Forest

"That might be. In any case, finding someone able to actually read them might prove more harmful than productive. Let's get rid of them!" answers Sir Wilfred. Then he proceeds to help his companion.

Last edited May 31, 2023 9:07 am

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

May 30, 2023 1:47 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Why would the witch have left the tablets behind if not to protect this hovel? I say we take them away but not destroy them. I think that the opposite could be true if we destroy them, Sir Gregor. The curses could be set loose."

Last edited May 30, 2023 5:05 pm

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

May 30, 2023 3:58 pm

The Perilous Forest

"Okay then. You may be right. Is there a way to cover them so we may not be affected by any charm of theirs?"

With a pile of flammable items ready to be set ablaze in the center of the hovel, Gregor looks for a large enough skin or something similar to wrap the tablets in.

"Well, let’s hurry and confer with our companions before setting this place ablaze."

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

May 31, 2023 4:09 am

The Perilous Forest

"What find you in there, knights?" Wolsten shouts from outside, riding his warhorse right to the entrance of the hovel. "Be quick and be thorough. Burn the doom-filled place! Every bit!"

kwll

May 31, 2023 9:11 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred winces, but says nothing. He still pursues his task to make the hovel burn.

King Arthur

Qralloq

May 31, 2023 4:17 pm

The Perilous Forest

The hovel resists fire but not for long. A general sogginess to the environment works against you, but once the fire catches into dry furniture and furnishings, it picks up. Thick, cloying smoke billows from the structure.

You're soon confident that it will be entirely consumed by flame.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

May 31, 2023 5:02 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

I assume Gregor and Wilfred relate everything they saw to their companions outside. Also I guess they carried the tablets out with them

Last edited June 1, 2023 3:46 am

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Jun 1, 2023 2:37 am

The Perilous Forest

"I could use this to cover the tablets although what good it might do I do not know, Sir Gregor."

Sir Gareth shamelessly pulls out a wimple he was given by a lady friend in which the tablets could be wrapped.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jun 1, 2023 3:46 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Sorry I missed Wilfred's response earlier about destroying the tablets. Gregor's first thought--and it seems Wilfred agreed-- was that we should destroy them. I think we got a little mixed up and things went a bit out of order. So what does everyone think is best...did Wilfred and Gregor leave the tablets in the hovel to melt, or did they take them out with them?

Last edited June 1, 2023 3:49 am

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jun 1, 2023 4:36 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Does Wolstan see them removing these stone tablets from the hovel?

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jun 1, 2023 4:44 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Harrigan before you ask that...I'm asking if Gregor and Wilfred actually did or did not remove the pewter tablets from the hovel. There was confusion in our posting and the act of taking or leaving the tablets got confused in the mix. What does everyone think the wisest thing to do is??

Last edited June 1, 2023 4:50 am

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jun 1, 2023 7:08 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Fair! And well, all I can tell you is how superstitious Wolstan will react if he sees you removing the tablets, but I'd rather do that IC. =]

kwll

Jun 1, 2023 1:37 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Sir Wilfred stands by his position, and does not touch the tablets. He will not interfere with anyone who wishes to get hold of them though.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jun 1, 2023 2:57 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Back inside the hovel I misread and thought Gareth's response to Gregor's question was Wilfred's response, since only Wilfred and Gregor were inside the hovel. From there things kinda didn't make any sense....to me at least. Sorry about that.

Qralloq, Gregor and Wilfred did leave the tablets in the hovel.

Last edited June 1, 2023 2:57 pm

King Arthur

Qralloq

Jun 5, 2023 8:29 pm

The Perilous Forest

The hovel burns down and the curse tablets remain inside, untouched. You're uncertain what will happen to them as they're pewter. If the fire is not enough, perhaps they'll melt or deform.

OOC:

Where to next? Back to the Earls castle for the showdown?

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jun 6, 2023 5:13 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

If Wolstan is told of these tablets, he’d want to stick around to make sure they were destroyed. Sorry to dwell on this, but the whole idea of coming here, to him, is to wreck any spells of charming she might have cast on the Earl.

kwll

Jun 6, 2023 11:14 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred approaches Sir Wolstan. "We found little of interest inside the hovel. Only a couple of pewter tablets, showing some obviously cursed words. It's time to leave, I think, unless you want to see the place burned down to ashes..." he says.

Last edited June 8, 2023 11:07 am

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Jun 7, 2023 1:47 am

The Perilous Forest

"But those tablets may still have viable curses. We should be assured that they are thoroughly destroyed. I say we wait for the smoke to clear and go inside and check."

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jun 7, 2023 3:59 am

The Perilous Forest

"Aye, Sir Gareth," Wolstan says from his charger. "We’ll smash and scatter what survives the inferno."

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jun 7, 2023 6:02 am

The Perilous Forest

"I agree Sir Gareth and Sir Wolstan, I think is is wise to wait and be sure all is destroyed, including those tablets. For all we know the witch has minions who would pull the tablets out from the inferno if we were to leave before being sure nothing survives the fire."

King Arthur

Qralloq

Jun 7, 2023 11:09 pm

The Perilous Forest

You wait for several hours, the picts setting up a rudimentary camp when it's clear that waiting for the fire to burn low is what your doing. The two ladies find a place in the shade to relax and wait this out, well outside of the smell of smoke.

Great steaks of black smoke rise high into the air, likely visible for many miles. The plume has a putrid glow, flecked with greens and purples.

When the hovel has burnt low enough that you can get close to the coals, steaming in the mucky wet ground, and by searching with long poles, you find the pewter tablets are misshapen blobs of metal. The writing on them liked to be obscured completely.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Jun 8, 2023 12:17 am

The Perilous Forest

"Do these blobs hold some magic still, do you think? Sir Gareth asks as he pokes at them with a stick.

"Perhaps since there are remnants of them they remain a threat. But how would we know?"

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jun 8, 2023 3:30 am

The Perilous Forest

"Whatever spell these tablets held," Wolstan says, using a makeshift cudgel to sift through the smoldering ruins, "it’s been broken, ruined. The witchery here is no more. All that remains is for us to decide: do we lie in ambush here in case the she-fiend returns, or do we make for the Earl’s, pressing on with haste?"

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jun 8, 2023 3:38 am

The Perilous Forest

"I say we make for the Earl’s. It would be hard for our large company to lie in ambush. And since we wouldn’t know for how long, we can’t put the Countess and her maid through that uncertain rigor." Gregor responds with his vote.

kwll

Jun 8, 2023 11:10 am

The Perilous Forest

"Let's move. We are not at our advantage in these parts, with a large company and ladies to protect. Plus we don't know the field." votes Sir Wilfred.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Jun 9, 2023 2:23 am

The Perilous Forest

You gather your body of men and women, Brits and Picts, nobles and commoners, and ride for the castle.

It's all coming to ahead now, you sense it. The witches hold on the Earl, well none of you know what will happen next. Will he awake as if from a dream, or was he complicit in the foul goings on all along?

Hours later...

The pictish scouts signal a warning. Tightening your greaves and vambraces, checking your swords are free in their scabbards, you advance.

The four of you, Fenwick trailing behind to watch over the Countess and Maid Maude, push past the pictish scouts.

There you see the Earl, and several of his knights, and men at arms. Both sides are surprised to see each other, suggest well balanced in numbers.

Earl Parwick

"My lords. Leading these barbarians onto my lands is a declaration of ill intent. Did you expect to do so without my knowledge?"

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jun 9, 2023 4:45 am

The Perilous Forest

"Earl Parwick," Sir Wolstan says, riding to the front of the procession, his visor up, but his hand on the hilt of his sword. "We have learned that dark sorceries have infected your lands… your holdings, mayhap even your senses, my lord. By God’s will, we have come to root out those evil magics and put things right. God moves in strange ways, and has placed these barbarians with us to help protect against the witchcraft of the woman who has wormed her way into your home, lo, into your bed."

At the retainers with Parwick, Wolstan points a mailed finger. "All of you, lords and squires and men-at-arms, you know I speak truth. No blood need be shed today. But make no mistake! The witch will be dragged forth, and she will pay for her crimes!"

OOC:

Sorry to have Wolstan’s forthrightitude on display yet again, gang, but you know… let’s get it on!

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jun 9, 2023 6:15 am

The Perilous Forest

Gregor looks back to see if he can spot Fenwick's location and if he has the women safely secured. When (or if) Gregor recognizes the women's relative safety in their ranks, he trots out to bolster Sir Wolston's call to the Earl and his men by making himself visible---also with his hand on the hilt of his sword.

He thinks that the Earl is not aware of Countess' presence in their party and wonders how him knowing would affect this encounter. But for now, until at least Sir Wolston can reason with the Earl's retainers, he feels it's best she hangs back and stays safe.

Last edited June 9, 2023 6:17 am

kwll

Jun 9, 2023 10:05 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred sides with Sir Wolston and says nothing, showing that the senior knight spoke for all of them.

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Jun 9, 2023 3:27 pm

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth is shocked at the candid nature of Wolstan's words but there it is laid out before the earl. He is very curious about what the earl's response might be and his apprehension is evident in the way his hands twitch on the reins as he sits ready to unsheath his sword and fight if need be.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Jun 9, 2023 4:05 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

There was talk of a plan with the Countess providing deception or at least distraction, but that plan may be moot now. Should I assume that said plan was abandoned?

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jun 9, 2023 9:22 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Gregor was just concerned with her safety if this encounter erupts into battle. But I suppose the idea was that the Countess was coming to make herself known so the witch would be drawn out and face her. Whether or not that happens we have yet to find out. The Countess is only feet from the Earl so the Countess may desire to handle that in anyway she wants. Gregor was concerned for her safety if she were to run to the front lines because the Earl is present.

Last edited June 9, 2023 9:24 pm

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jun 10, 2023 5:02 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Sorry if I screwed up the plan, folks!

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jun 10, 2023 6:13 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

No worries. It will all unfold as it should. And it will be fun to see it as it does. It is suiting that Wolston would step up to face the Earl, being the senior knight and also being the cut-to-the-chase, forward fellow he is.

Last edited June 10, 2023 6:17 am

King Arthur

Qralloq

Jun 10, 2023 4:59 pm

The Perilous Forest

Earl Parwick

He searches you're group and then freeze on someone in the back, "Kill them! All of them." His words cut sharp, his own blade remains in his scabbard, but he is armored and ready.

You have a moment to prepare as his few knights and men at arms, numbering similar to your own force, scramble for their weapons.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jun 10, 2023 7:34 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Here we go then…

Gregor rides far enough back to get Fenwick’s attention to say, "Fenwick, keep the women safe!"

He then rides along side Wolston sword still drawn.

Last edited June 10, 2023 7:35 pm

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jun 11, 2023 3:21 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wolstan is unwilling to accept that the Earl's men will blindly follow his lead when so much of what the man has done is suspect. He turns on his horse and thunders down the line that separates the two sides, his visor up and his voice booming as his horse's hooves churn the turf.

"Lords of Castle Parwick and her surrounds! Think, men! Think of the things the Earl has done, and what God sees in this! The deals struck, his rightful wife sent away! A bloody witch skulking in your halls! In the name of Arthur, King of the Britons, put up your swords! Join your countrymen and help us to drive out the blackness here that clouds the Earl's mind! Do not bring shame on your houses, do not have these be the deeds for which you are ever remembered!"

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jun 11, 2023 4:11 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Yeah! Go Sir Wolston! I would lower my sword of I were one of the Earl's men.

King Arthur

Qralloq

Jun 11, 2023 3:27 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Excellent speech, and compelling! Care to toss some coins into the mix? I'll ask for a Presence test of Fellowship. If you get 2+, you'll demoralize them in the conflict. 4+ and they won't intervene in you arresting the Earl. 5+ and they'll arrest the Earl themselves!

Fame Greater Than Opponent: by 1000 pts. — Presence +1
Morale: net +1: +2 for positive factors (love, honor); -1 for negative factors (loyalty to the Earl).
Possessions (knightly arms and armament while evoking King Arthur): Presence +1

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jun 11, 2023 3:50 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Want to make sure I get this right.

Presence is 3. Fellowship is 1... for a base of 4. His fame (1800) provides +1, morale for those knights nets +1, possessions help his presence by +1. Totaling 7 coins, correct? Questions, can others help, and I'm forgetting -- is there any way to use some metacurrency or make sacrifices to help ensure success?

King Arthur

Qralloq

Jun 11, 2023 4:19 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

If the others describe through roleplay how they might help your challenge of the Earl's mens' loyalty and honor, then each such assistant would add a coin to your pool.

In the game as written there isn't any metacurrency for you to burn to lean into the task at hand. However, if you wanted to burn Presence for additional coins (such a course of action chosen before any are thrown, of course), then I'll allow it. After the throw, your Presence will be temporarily diminished, as if demoralized, so if you fail, your mass combat checks will be disadvantaged.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jun 11, 2023 4:58 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Gregor's action is risky, but...

Gregor takes off his helmet and slides his sword back into his scabbard. He urges his horse close to the front line of 'Earl's' forces and calls emphatically,

"You know Sir Wolston's words are true. No swords need be raised toward you today! This party led by knights of King Arthur is not your enemy. The true threat to you, your lands, and to the prosperity our King Arthur steadfastly works to uphold is Earl Parwick's allegiance to the unholy. Heed Sir Wolston's plea and let this day be remembered as the day you restored that prosperity to your lands."

Last edited June 11, 2023 5:04 pm

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Jun 12, 2023 2:06 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Gareth addresses the Earl's men as well, his hands settled calmly in plain view of everyone.

"As my fellow knights have said, the earl sleeps with a witch. A witch I tell you! Can you imagine? Surely you will not align yourselves with such a foul fiend as this?"

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jun 12, 2023 4:32 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

I'll forego your offer, GM, and just roll my 7 coins + help from the PCs, who I'll ask to each roll one coin each if they are helping!

Edit: Yep, will take all the help I can get!

Last edited June 12, 2023 4:32 am

Rolls

Will you listen, you curs?! - (7d2-7)

(1121121) - 7 = 2

kwll

Jun 12, 2023 8:51 am

The Perilous Forest

Sir Wilfred moves forward as well, restraining from bringing out his sword for now. "Think about why we came here in the first place. Even the King is aware of what is happening here. Do you think we will be the last knights to come and check on the Earl's business?"

Rolls

Presence roll assistance to Sir Wolstan - (1d2-1)

(1) - 1 = 0

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jun 12, 2023 3:58 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Coin Toss to help sir Wolston...

Last edited June 12, 2023 4:07 pm

Rolls

Coin toss to assist Sir Wolston - (1d2-1)

(1) - 1 = 0

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Jun 12, 2023 6:49 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Gareth tosses a coin too after his rousing entreaty.

Rolls

Presence - (1d2-1)

(2) - 1 = 1

King Arthur

Qralloq

Jun 12, 2023 8:19 pm

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

Three successes in total.

[ +- ] So that means

The Earl's men seem displeased with these accusations but their mettle is such that they just can't convince themselves that you're right, and the Earl is wrong.

As they prepare themselves, the Countess darts forward. "Sirs, it is all true. Lay down your arms or go in peace. Let us take the Earl back to Camelot for trial!"

Countess Cynewise

With that, the men agree, and the Earl finds himself alone, sputtering his words of dismay and accusing everyone of being faithless. His knights will agree to accompany him, to protect him from mischief and they will obey the will of the King.

All eyes fall upon Sir Wolstan and his boon companions. Is this satisfactory, they wonder?

Rolls

Another assist? - (1d2-1)

(2) - 1 = 1

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jun 12, 2023 9:30 pm

The Perilous Forest

Gregor rides back beside Sir Wolstan and says to him--no longer orating to the masses but also not trying to be secretive or prevent anyone from overhearing, "Yes trial in Camelot seems fair, Sir Wolston. But I only wish the witch would make herself known so we could rid her influence on this man and be sure her clutches are fully releases from these lands!"

OOC:

Phew...thank you Countess!

Last edited June 12, 2023 9:31 pm

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jun 13, 2023 1:26 am

The Perilous Forest

OOC:

I was wondering if one of my fellows was going to use the Countess as their ace in the hole coin throw, but this is obviously better!

Red-faced, having been ready to test his old thews on the field of battle once more, Wolstan nods -- to Gregor, and to Earl's gentry. "Wise words, Countess. That is exactly what we shall do," he says aloud. But then, quieter as they come back together and the Earl is placed under house arrest, he says, "And we shall find this witch ourselves, and put a true end to this madness."

kwll

Jun 13, 2023 9:24 am

The Perilous Forest

"We definitely cannot let her fool around unchecked!" agrees Sir Wilfred, satisfied with the outcome of the encounter with the Earl and ready to move on.

Last edited June 15, 2023 1:51 pm

Sir Gareth Heath

Windyridge

Jun 13, 2023 5:41 pm

The Perilous Forest

"The nasty witch will not escape our clutches. That much is sure!" Sir Gareth proclaims with much bravado and a confidence he doesn't entirely feel. However, so far their group had acquitted themselves admirably and there was no reason to think they wouldn't continue to do so.

Sir Gregor Gildon

Seck

Jun 13, 2023 6:04 pm

The Perilous Forest

In response to Sir Wolstan’s private assertion to the knights that they will put and end to the witch, Gregor asks, "Do you think we should interview the Earl once again in the light of his arrest and new found predicament? We are not completely sure what effect our burning of the hovel and melting of the tablets had on his mind, if any. In any case we may need to probe him for information on the witch’s activities."

Last edited June 13, 2023 6:05 pm

Sir Wolstan of Glengrave

Harrigan

Jun 15, 2023 12:56 am

The Perilous Forest

"Verily," Wolstan says with a nod, removing his helm. "But we have no time to waste. While the Earl is questioned, some of our number must make for her chambers, immediately. She might not yet know of her thrall's undoing. We should not waste that advantage, if it exists."

King Arthur

Qralloq

Jun 15, 2023 1:45 am

The Perilous Forest

At the Earl's castle...

Blood drips from her fingers, as the young daintily-clad maiden peers into the blood-smeared mirror. Within, behind the reflection of her own visage (that of a hag not a fair maid!) she sees the Earl taken into custody.

"Curses! My plans are ruined. Those meddling knights will pay!" She smashes the mirror in outrage, and spins, her clothing spinning with a whimsy she does not feel.

She sorts through her treasures, gifts from the hapless and besotted earl, and those trinkets stolen over months in the castle. She takes only the finest of the lot, light and easily packed items, such as rare gemstones and priceless jewelry. Lastly into her dark sack she packs her last curse tablet. "They did not break this one, and they'll have a surprise soon!" Her cackle raises the hackles of those guards in the castle within earshot.

In the Perilous Forest...

The earl is tied, his dignity intact with a cloth over his bindings. He comes along gently, his mind reeling at the events. As a fog of false certainty lifts from his mind he begins to question every decision he's made in months. A growing horror dawns upon him, upon his treatment of his people, his courtiers, and most despicably, his own lady wife.

When you return to the castle, you find the guards all have the same story. There was a loud crash, and when they entered the consort's chamber, the window was smashed and Shezbaz was gone. One, lone guard on the western trail shot at a monstrous bird that flew past. The screech was demonic, and when he chased down the foul fallen fowl, he found only a strange sack full of items stolen from the castle. Of the creature, there was no sign.

Expert trackers find nothing other than a few drops of vile smelling blood a dozen paces away.

In Camelot...

Arthur stands as judge at the Round Table as the Earl's story is told, then your own testimony added. He has no excuses, offers none, and instead explains each terrible decision, one after another. "Witchcraft" comes the cry, but there is no understanding of how much was dark magic and how much a man willing to be lead astray.

In the end, each of Arthur's knights lays their swords on the table one by one. The Earl is unanimously found guilty of the crime of treason against the laws Arthur set out, and is stripped of his lands.

Arthur, in his mercy, adds only, "Sir Parwick, I beseech you remain as one of my knights. Prove yourself by deed as faithful and just as the best of us, and earn back your Earldom. For now, I grant your lands and title to your faithful and brave wife, Duchess Cynewise, in trust until that time her husband is once again a stalwart steward of our love and trust."

https://cdn.zmescience.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/round-table.jpg

Through misty glens, young Valiant rides brave,
A witch's curse, his fate to misbehave,
Yet steadfast heart, his trials shall embrace,
In legend's tapestry, his name finds grace.

-Thank you for joining me on this quest!

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