> Situation Report:

You have escaped from being tied up and left for execution by the Frer just in the nick of time, while your mule was not so lucky and was killed by six horsemen. Life is unfair and tragic.

After that, you managed to lose them in the woods, only to come upon a place where the Frer presumably killed two of those pursuers. After a short pause to consider how life might be fair after all, you took a horse and legged it.

Now it is about noon, though the weather is cloudy as Neronsec ever is, and you have shed all the crests and insignia of the horse. It's a pretty handsome horse too, you have to say. If you want to race to Cackmere - and you suspect that's what it will become - then a good horse is much better than a dead mule with a cart. So all is for the best.

Dear heavens, your optimism is irrepressible.

>>25716526

Don't show her the letter, it would panic her even more.

I still think we should go for the friar, but it seems like it would be difficult. Maybe we should follow Violet and go to a village or something.

At the very least, we can steal or obtain some money somewhere...

>>25716572

> Huh. Crickets, eh.

You look at Violet, who's worked up a bit of a sweat already from just standing and walking around. 'Do you know any nearby villages or towns, then?'

'Um, well...' she looks around, wringing her hands slightly. Of the three roads that branch off from here, she has to point at the one that hasn't got any tracks on it. 'If I'm not mistaken, that road will run east to a nearby village. As for these two roads, I think they head south - but I'm not sure where to...'

You consider that. Aren't you supposed to be going south, not east? You're pretty sure Cackmere District is along the southern coast...

> So. Go east? Or follow the tracks, either one?

>>25716651
>Go East.

Leave the road with the horse for a few hundred yards, then rejoin the road and head for a town. Don't leave a trail at the corpse site for people to follow.

They sent people after the Frer, when they don't report back, they might send more.

I suspect we'll make better time if we avoid the potential obstacles and just go around all the trouble.

>>25716651

She's trying to mislead us, I swear. The only question is why.

>>25716709

Do you mean abandon the horse? Why? On foot we'd never outrun the followers if they're after us. And they are.

>>25716651
>Go east

If this is a race, we'll go faster if we avoid the people trying to capture/kill us.

Once we've go moving and Violet has calmed down, tell her someone is trying to kill us.
We know she didn't really sign up for this, if she wants to ditch us at the next town, we'll understand.

We have a few gold coins from the dead guard, right? Offer her half so she can but passage back home.

>>25716743
No. I mean lead the horse off the road for a few hundred yards so we don't leave a trail away from the dead guards.

Take the horse.

>>25716717
>She's trying to mislead us
Hoe so?

>>25716709
>>25716752
>>25716762

> Looks like east wins.

Damn, you're right, but you can't leave another trail of tracks here. Just then both of you think you can hear hoof-falls, but after a momentary panic it turns out to be the cries of the Hoof-fall bird. 'CLOPCLOPCLOPCLOP!'

'Damned thing,' Violet whispers, to your surprise. You quickly help her up the horse and ride off, though you avoid the road and head into the bush. 'Where are you going?'

'Confusing them. They'll head south.'

It is not long before you ride through bushes and grasses and eventually come upon some fields, which you also begin riding through. This is not very nice, to be honest - the crops of wheat, barley and oilseed are just growing, and you're trampling some of it. But who cares, eh?

'Oi! You bastard! Get off my land!'

You should really stop thinking things like 'who cares'. You turn around and see someone waving a pitchfork. Tsk. You haven't travelled far enough off the road for the horsemen to lose your trail!

> What do?

>>25716778

Pointing us towards the only path that the frer could not have travelled? That's dodgy.

>>25716752

Also, I've taken note of your instruction. It does seem to be the right thing to do, poor girl.

It's a pity you haven't gone as far with her as you'd like to, but such are things. When you're lord you can do better.

>>25716804
>What do?

Gallop away and leave him in the dust.

Once we're sure we're far enough away to not leave an obvious trail, get back on the road and head East.

>>25716810
Pointing us away from people that have drugged us and tries to kill us is dodgy?

Even if she did know a village down one of the other roads. That's not really dodgy, that's just avoiding trouble.

You there, OP?

Bump

>>25716839
Yeah, dragging someone through a shit-storm that doesn't want to be there is just asking for trouble.

The poor girl didn't sign up for this. Give her the chance to leave before someone else tries to kill us.

>>25716883
>>25716892

Oh yes, I am.

'Run!' Violet whispers, and you know what, that's a pretty good idea. You manage to get the horse into a smart canter, all the way to the far edge of the field, where the man is still waving his pitchfork but is now inaudible.

After that little encounter, you ride undisturbed until you feel it safe to venture back on the road. This place is really quite quiet; you didn't expect early summer to be so empty of travellers... it's almost suspicious.

'Violet?'

'Yes?'

'Look. After we get to the next town, if you want to leave and go back to the village, I think that's fair enough. I wouldn't like you to come to harm for something that's not your doing.' Not that it's *your* doing, mind. Violet's response surprises you, though.

'What are you talking about, Lord McHoller? I'm not... I wasn't even thinking about that.'

'What, really? But I'm not even an appointee now. Well, not until we catch the Frer somewhere.' Where could he have gone? And what does he want with the appointment letter?

'But you've... we've...' She wraps her arms around you from behind, which is a surprise. 'I'm not going. I have a plan. We have to go to Yewton County anyway. That's where the district is, that's my hometown. Then we can plan for whatever it is.'

You sigh and keep riding, until you pass a rather incongruous sign saying '8 miles to Goxtyn.' 8 miles! It'll be evening by the time you get there...

> Timeskip to Goxtyn, or talk more to Violet? You notice she seems quite... familiar with the local geography. It must be those long trips she says she makes, back to the family house in Pensec...

>>25716955

I'd ask her more about Yewton. I thought she came from far off to our destination.

>>25716955
>But I'm not even an appointee now. Well, not until we catch the Frer somewhere.

Remind me. Was it 'the barer of this appointment' or 'Lord McHoller' shall be the new Lord of Cackmere?

If it's us, we should be able to prove our identity with our sword and claim it anyway. As long as we get their first and warn them to expect a lying cunt carrying our letter and trying to use our name.

If we need the letter, the best option would be to get there first and set up an ambush for when the imposter arrives.

>I have a plan.
Ask her about her plan.

>>25716993

You sigh and continue riding, while Violet glances around. 'It's so quiet. This road is normally quite... there's caravans, maybe even some pilgrims, coming to and fro.'

'Is that so? Also, so you come from Yewton?'

'Eh? Oh! Uh, yeah.'

'Tell me more about it?'

'Well, it's got this big estuary, or bay, and it's got... 7 or 8 lordships, if I remember. Cackmere's one of them. Not much of a place, honestly... wait. Do you hear that?'

'Hear what?' But then, as soon as you say that, you do. It's not a few hoof-falls, like a hunting party after you; it's more like a gentle rumble, like a much larger party. You glance at the sun, now quite low in the sky; you are probably almost at Goxtyn now, but the sound seems to be coming from that direction.

> What do?

>>25717087
>What do?
Get off the road and wait for them to pass.

>>25717079

'Also, what's your plan? That you talked about?'

You try to recall what it said on your letter. It... it was probably Angus McHoller, the aforementioned. So that could be in your favour.

Meanwhile Violet, having mentioned the plan, now seems a bit hesitant to talk about it. 'Well, uh... it's nothing, really.'

'Oh, come now.'

'No, it's nothing, really! I was just thinking, if you would have to rush to Cackmere, there were two routes you could take. And I was just wondering which was quicker. To go by the road south, through Trenton County, or maybe we could head for the River Yew, and just sail down it...'

Oh, right. Well, that's worth keeping in mind...

>>25717140
>Road or River.

If we run into trouble, we can get off the road and take another route. We can't do that on a boat.

The boat might be quicker - meaning they'll probably look there if they want to find us - but the road sounds safer.

Vote Road.

>>25717118
>>25717195

Acting quickly, you lead the horse off the road again and into the thickets, hoping you can approach the town without being spotted. In the diffuse afternoon light, you follow the road, when suddenly you see what is making all the noise.

A large group of horsemen - there must be eighty or a hundred of them - ride on ahead of you, cantering and trotting, not following any path but their own, simply crossing the road and heading into the thickets again. It is about then that you smell smoke in the air to your left.

For a moment you think it's a band of robbers, but then you realise they are all dressed similarly, and a banner flies ahead of them. Is this a raiding war between rival lords? You haven't seen those for half a year when you were not appointed as lord to somewhere! There's something cursed about that letter, seriously.

'Oh no,' Violet mutters. 'If those are raiders, then the gates of Goxtyn might well be closed...'

> What do? Risk Goxtyn, or hazard the thickets for another night before heading south?

>>25717296

Damn. I say we keep off the road, keep a look out, and head for Goxtyn. No matter what, having a wall around us is nice.

>>25717296
>What do?
A raiding war between local Lords? Any town with half a brain will have closed its gates.

I don't want to get there only to be turned away and caught without a good place to camp.

Best spend our time before dark finding a good spot.

>>25717418

This makes more sense.

>>25717418
>>25717441

> No towning, then.

Violet seems a little disappointed when you said to look for somewhere and sleep rough, but you ignore her. Standing outside the walls when a bunch of murderous nobles are riding around burning things? (And where's that burning smell from anyway?)

Instead you turn back, and just as the light fails you find what seems like a good spot - near a narrow footpath and canal probably being used by farmers, on the edge of some fields so the horse can eat something, but still hidden. Well, damned lucky for the horse; less so for the two of you. Violet sits down and you hear a distinct growling sound from her stomach.

'I'm a bit hungry,' she mutters.

'The next time someone comes around asking to share our food, we'll eat him,' you say. You kind of mean it, too. Honestly though, you too are hungry...

There appears to be a village across the fields, it's a bit of a trek but you could try for it. As the sun falls, a deep silence falls across the whole place, and you almost feel peaceful. 'How far away is Yewton, Violet?'

'About... 4 or 5 days by the road southwards?'

Nice.

> What do? Food is needed.

>>25717502

Also, given there are a hundred swordsmen riding around stabbing everything that moves, you might want to arrange to keep watch while resting. Just because you can't hear them, doesn't mean they're gone...

Come think of it, should I be doing this another time? Or maybe a bit later today? It's a bit disappointingly quiet, no offence to those who are here.

I could leave this and come back in maybe 3 hours' time or something...

>>25717585
Might be a good idea to move this to another time. I think there's only 2 of us.

However, this being a Saturday, I'll be going out to kill some brain cells in a few hours. If you do delay it, I'll have to say goodbye.

>>25717664

Is Sunday a better day, then? Yeah I think there's two. How slightly discouraging.

>>25717502
Then only choice we have is to wait it out and pray that they don't find us. Go hungry for a night though trying for the gates at night would have been out best bet in my opinion. If the swordsmen are still here in the morning it's not like getting to the town would be any easier.

>>25717502
>Get food from the village?

No. A stranger wandering into town after dark when raiders are rampaging about the area?

The locals will be on edge and suspicious of us.
We can try to buy some food in the morning.

Going hungry for one night won't hurt. Just get comfortable and cuddle.
Tell her we'll take first watch and wake her in a few hours.

>>25717708
The problem of course is aren't we kinda broke at the moment? Do even have enough money to buy us food for our trip?

>>25717677
I'd support doing this on Sunday.

Unless someone else votes against it, I say finish this for now and start up again tomorrow.

>>25717696

> ANOTHER PERSON!!

Well, if the swordsmen are still there in the morning, you know you won't be for sure. It's a pretty firm principle you stand by, not approaching violent swordsmen going around in throngs.

It also strikes you that it's probably best if you don't start a fire here that could draw anyone's attention, whether it's the raiders or people patrolling for raiders. At least the summer night is not that cold, though the buzzing of flies is annoying.

For a while you just sit there with Violet, neither of you saying much. She breaks the silence. 'So do you really want to be the lord of Cackmere?'

'Well, it's been given to me, hasn't it? Not like anyone asked.'

'But if they did? What would you do to obtain the lordship?'

> Huh. What reply?

>>25717719
We got some coins from the dead guard.

Not sure how much though.

>>25717727

Heck, I could do it both days this weekend. Nowhere to go and no one to see.

I'll run this until running is not possible, then look at the twitter for when I run it tomorrow. Could be relatively early; I've got work Monday.

>>25717739
>>25717719
>>25717708

You did get some coins, though it's not a lot - there's one small silver piece, which will buy you both some dinner. Assuming they take silver.

Assuming they'll sell dinner.

Assuming they haven't been slaughtered.

You sidle up and put your arm around Violet, and after a moment's hesitation she sidles up to you as well. The question still hangs in the air, though, strangely serious.

>>25717739
Ah, I had almost forgotten about that. At least we can buy food. Assuming of course we are able to get into town.
>>25717733
"Well it sounds like it would certainly be better than the life I have been living so far. Getting captured by a bandit, hiding from large bands of men with swords, and not being able to eat at night. I find those are great motivation and who knows what I would do to obtain it. Though it seems what I must do first is survive the night."

Something to that effect.

>>25717733
>What would you do to obtain the lordship?'
"Honestly, I don't know. I try to be a good man - most of the time - but I'm not fool enough to throw away lands and titles without trying.

I'd fight for it if I had to. If I had a chance at winning, anyway.

I think I could be a good Lord. I'm smarter than many Nobles I could name. I'm not a needlessly cruel bastard like some.

Tell me. What do you think?"

>>25716526
Appointment quest hot damn diggity, I was waiting for this!

>>25717782
>Assuming they haven't been slaughtered.

Well.... That would be shit but it wouldn't be a reason for us to go hungry.

In fact. They attacked and burned ... something.
If we need to, we could pick through what's left.

>>25717832
FOUR PEOPLE!

>>25717835
On the bright side, if they slaughtered everyone if we find some food we won't have to pay for it. Along with any valuables they have.

>>25717832
>>25717835
>>25717806
>>25717803
>>25717806

'Well, the life you're living now is from trying to become that lord, isn't it?' She says. That's a good point, hard as it is to admit...

'Maybe. But you don't know if it was better before that. And it wasn't, not really. But you see, I try to be a good man, but I also *try*. I won't throw away a title and lands.'

'I see. That makes sense.' She nods.

'Also, I think I'd make a reasonable ruler. I mean, if you've seen poor rulers... I'm not a cruel bastard like some of them are.' You gesture around you. 'Like whoever's burning villages right now.'

'Well, see, being a lord in Yewton... you do have to take sides sometimes, that's all I'd say. The Count of Yewton is a young man, and not a very pleasant young man either.'

'You know the Count?'

'Eh? Oh, no!' She shakes her head. 'I just... reputation travels, eh?'

Hmm. The night wears on. At one point you actually hear more rumbling of hooves, going in the middle distance, but then it fades away. Then, to your surprise, Violet leans in to kiss you. It is a short but intense kiss, and she leans against you, pressing you to the ground...

'I'm... tired,' you say when she pulls away. Which you are. You smile and go to sleep. 'Watch out...'

When you wake up again, it's still dark. You turn to one side and blink.

Violet's gone.

> What do?

>>25717840

YAY PEOPLE!!

Thanks guys.

>>25717879
Time to PANIC, but we should look to see if our horse is still here. Start our search but "maybe" she is just off to "relieve" herself

>>25717879

... what?

did she leave a note?

>>25717879
>What do?
Look around (as best we can in the dark) and listen.

She might just have gone for a leak, no need to panic.

>>25717981
>>25717948
>>25717944

You sit bolt upright and look all around you, in the dim glow afforded by the moon. Nothing... nothing... no one.

'Violet? Violet.'

... well, thanks for disappearing! You quickly scramble up and check your stuff, but all of it is here - sword, coins, horse. Yeah, that's everything, right?

Squinting at the ground, you try to make out if she's gone to piss in the canal, but find something more interesting - slight wet prints, barely visible, on the stones which line the canal, heading out the other side. She's crossed the canal? But if-

What, the village? But she hasn't got any money on her. What's she planning to do?

> What do?
> Roll d100.

Rolled 38

>>25718009
See that the horse is tethered properly, then try to track her. This is getting curiouser and curiouser!

>>25718009
>What do?
If we can still see the prints even by moonlight, they must be fresh.

She must have just left.

Try and catch up, she can't have gone that far.

Rolled 24

>>25718009
Aww, the sweet thing is whoring herself to finance our trip, how nice of her! We don't want to embarrass her, return and pretend to sleep.

Rolled 31

>>25718059
This time I'll try and spell dice right.

>>25718059
Do you think she's trying to sell us out? She seemed such a nice girl thus far...

>>25718046
>>25718059
>>25718074

> Roll failed... but thankfully for >>25718046's presence of mind!

You frown at the prints. She must have headed off, and just now as well. Well, seriously, if she's trying to use her body to get food for the two of you, you're never going to live that down... well, maybe...

Just as you are about to head out, though, the horse suddenly gives a loud snort, and then another. Damn, you'd better secure it properly...

You turn around and quickly see what the horse is snorting about, as it shakes its head and paws and tugs at the tether. There's a pair of eyes, shining, staring at you from the undergrowth. There aren't tigers or lions out here; you have no idea what it is. But it's there.

And in the absence of a fire to ward it of, it's moving towards you.

> Fuck. What do?

>>25718133
>What do?
We've got a sword.

Get ready to use it mother-fucker!

Also, we might have just found food. Assuming it doesn't eat us first.

If we do fight, try to be quiet about it. Sound will carry for miles in the still of night.

>>25718133
Are they animal eyes or people eyes though? Whip out your sword anyway, and challenge the intruder. "I can see you clearly as day, step out of the bushes! Unless you're heavily armed of course, then please stay in the bushes!"

>>25718192
>>25718227

> Well said!

You have a sword, but it's by your pack, and you are by the canal. It will be a bit of a jump to reach and draw it.

Also, you consider those lines - and it is a very logical and coherent challenge. But you don't know any human eyes that shine like that, unless it be a Revenant or some other dread spirit of legend, in which case you really shouldn't be leaping for the sword anyway.

> Jump for the sword? If so, d100.
> If not, well... it's still there. It probably walks faster than you run. Do you really want to find out?

Rolled 19

>>25718271
Ehh, if it's an animal then it doesn't have a healthy respect for manners and decorum, better take your chances with the sword. Make a loud noise to scare it, and then make a lunge for the sword!

Rolled 42

>>25718271

Jump for the sword!

But not before grabbing a nearby rock or stick if there is one.

Rolled 20

>>25718271
"Violet?" Nah, couldn't be. Right?

Casually reach down and pick up a good rock. Try not to appear threatening.

Slowly move towards the sword. Try and reach it before the creature pounces.

inb4 it's something harmless. It's just a sheep with the moonlight catching its eyes an odd way.

Rolled 93

>>25718271

WE ARE GOING TO DIE COME ON DICE

>>25718350
Maybe it's a friendly rabid carnivorous animal, though? We just might get lucky this time!

>>25718350
>>25718323

> Whew.

You quickly reach for a rock with one hand, and then glance over at the red sheath of your sword. Could you do it? Could you do it?

Then the beast growls, and you throw all that away and leap for the bloody weapon. As if surprised by the swift movement, it actually hesitates for a moment before leaping at you, and you swipe at it with the rock, catching it on the head so that it yowls and falls past you.

Rolling as you draw the sword - you didn't even know you could do that - you get to your feet, but the animal is now distracted, backing towards the canal. And it's a damn good thing too that you turned around to face it, because now you can see behind it to the village...

... and you can see the trail of torches, in a single file, headed towards it. Oh heavens. If Violet is there...

> What do!

>>25718419
>What do!
If it's backing away, just shoo if off. We now have bigger issues to deal with.

Get the horse ready and walk silently towards the torches.

Torch-glow means they won't be ably to see more than 30 feet or so. As long as we're silent we won't be spotted.

Look for the girl and be ready to jump on the horse and bolt.

>>25718419
What kind of an animal is it? If it's a wolf perhaps we should finish it on general principles.

>>25718487
We have no time for subtlety, Violet might be in trouble! Mount the horse and ride across the canal into the village.

>>25718487

Hefting the sword, you hiss at the animal, which slinks away; you suspect it's more those torches. They really don't like fire. You should take note of that next time you sleep rough.

Grabbing your horse, you start off at a walking pace across the fields, but as you see the line of torches come nearer, you begin speeding into a trot, trampling on the crops as you go. Well, the farmers wouldn't care either, would they now?

As you go closer to the village, things get progressively more alarming. You begin hearing the cries of people trying to get out of the village; then suddenly, at the sound of a horn blast, all hell seems to break loose. The line of torches spreads out and charges into the village, and cries turn into screams. Avoiding them successfully enough, you ride up to hide behind a shed, just as several children and women start running around the corner, having the same idea as you.

'Oh heavens don't hurt us!' One of them starts shrieking, seeing a man on a black horse brandishing a sword. Oh yeah you were doing that...

> What do/say? They're beginning to fire the village, it seems! Fighting is definitely going on already - who *are* these people?

>>25718590
"I'm on your side! Flee to the forest with the children, lady!" Try to get them away so you don't draw attention to yourself. Where on earth Violet could've gone? Ride to the town square for starters, yell 'to arms' as you go so people think you're on their side.

>>25718673

This, except for the 'to arms' bit - they might think we're rallying the riders!

>>25718590
Demand to know what's going on

>>25718746
>>25718694
>>25718673

> Having dinner now, might be a bit slow.

'What in the world is going on?'

'Raiders! From the next county over!'

You don't even know which county this is, for goodness' sake! 'Run for the woods! Quick, go!'

As the people scatter, you turn around the corner straight into a crowd of fleeing villagers, which run past you mindlessly while you look around. Already the first few buildings are catching fire, and the riders are systematically moving down from the other end of the road. If there is resistance, it is not organised at all...

'Violet? Violet!' She's nowhere in sight, until you turn and see someone who looks like her, with a cluster of others, turn into an alleyway. The riders see them too, and two of them start spurring forward; you watch as they hack someone to death on the way, blood spraying in torchlight.

Damnit!

> What do?

Rolled 79

>>25718800
It's time for ultimate Heroism and to show our high levels of Nobility to the plebs.
Ride on - but only start swinging at them if they aren't facing you.

Rolled 2

>>25718800
Ride them down like common scum they are. Noblesse oblige!

>>25718936
Low was good, right? Right?

>>25718800
>What do?
It's dark, we're an armed man on horseback.

BLUFF!

"I'll take this alley. I saw more go that way." *point in direction we didn't see anyone* "You two get them, I'll check down here."

Just act the part and don't give them any reason to question it. Once they've gone. Fine Violet and any with her.

GTFO!

Assuming the bluff fails, cheese it. They'll chase us, giving Violet time to escape.

Lose them in the woods and fields.

>>25718882
>>25718936
No, even if we kill them, their friends will just jump on us.

We can't take 10-20 guys.

Try and bluff them away.

Failing that, run for it and lose them in the dark. Just distracting them should do the job. Violet is a smart girl, if we give her an opening, she should escape.

>>25718970
Seconding this, quick thinking!

>>25719011
We don't need to kill all of them. There are only two riders chasing our woman so we just kill one and then whack the other one across the head, collect Violet and escape.

>>25719016
>>25718970
>>25718882

> Good roll! It'll be useful.

You know what your dad always said - Blllrrbrbrraarrghghhrbbbb you bastard.

Well, you always understood is as 'Discretion is the better part of valour', so you shall put that in play right now. Riding straight up to the riders, who seem a little surprised, you begin commanding them in your most lordly voice.

'Take the main road! I will round those up!'

The fact that you are unarmoured seems to have escaped them, and they go 'Fine!' and move on to resume their kidnapping and slaughter. Except for one man. 'I'll go with you!'

'Lead on then!'

You turn and let him pass, and then ride behind him until you see the group of people, huddled in terror near a shed. Perfect! You yell 'Hold it!', raise your sword, and hit the son of a bitch on the side of the head so he topples off his horse. Then you ride up to the group, and spot who you had come for. 'Violet!'

'Angus!' That's the first time she's cried your name. 'Run!'

Run?

You have just enough time to think how that makes no sense before you hear a group of three horsemen ride up behind you, and suddenly a man leaps on them from a first floor window. A scream is cut short, and you stand there stunned as the sudden attacker kills one, than another of the horsemen, before the third decides to bugger off.

... and then he comes at you.

> Shit! You're not the one he's looking for! What do!

>>25719131
Flee! Ride forwards and grab Violet with one hand, while waving the other and yelling "This is not the noble you're looking for!"

>>25719073
And what happens if they put up a fight?

What happens when the action draws others?

If they see someone attacking their friends, they aren't just going to ignore it, they'll come over and stab us in the back.

Bluff them away or run and draw them off.

Rolled 77

>>25719131
Thrust our sword at him once he gets close enough

>>25719131
Pull her on the horse and RUN!

>>25719131
Time to grab Violet and proceed to get the hell out of here.

...I wonder if she was able to get some food.

>>25719181
>Rolled 77

Yeah, okay then. Seconded.

But after that we need to GTFO! That guy that escaped we be back with help soon. Let's not wait for them.

>>25719203
>>25719199
>>25719160
>>25719171

> MORE DISCRETION! MORE!

You quickly turn around and run towards Violet, who also runs towards you, and then makes a jump for your saddle. Amazingly, it works - how is she so agile? - and she manages to get on the horse, albeit draped over it instead of sitting on it. You can't really gallop with her like that, you'll break all her bones.

'I'm not the one you're looking for!' You yell at the man, who as it happens is wielding a longsword. Who the hell is this person? He does not listen to you, though.

Who he does listen to is Violet, who clambers onto your saddle. 'CORDO! Behind you!'

Cordo pulls the reins, forcing the horse to wheel around, and you watch as he expertly dodges one more rider and lashes out, the tip of his blade slashing the rider's throat wide open. Okay, that's enough bloodshed for one night! 'You sitting steady?'

'Somewhat!'

She grabs on to you as you ride off past the sheds, and you hear a distinct yell behind you going 'Winnnn!'

What a weirdo.

> Righto! Mission accomplished! What do now?

>>25719258
First find out if she was able to acquire any food.

If answer is no: Go acquire food.
If answer is yes: Is it enough for our journey? If yes proceed to get the fuck out of dodge. If answer is no: Go acquire food

>>25719258
Is anyone on our tail right now?
>Y
Forget everything else for now. Just run. Lose them in the darkness before dawn.

>N
"Why did you leave? Did you get some supplies?"

If needed, look for a chance to grab some supplies. Once we're safe and clear:
"Who the hell was Cordo? Can you fill me in here?"

>>25719258
Who the hell is Cordo anyway, and how does she know him? Just what is going in here? Get some answers from her when you're in a safer spot, be persistent.

>>25719258
"When we get out of here, we are having a serious talk about your past, damn it!"
Time to get the fuck out.

>>25719435
>>25719397
>>25719388
>>25719329

You run like hell, galloping downhill until you run straight into and through a thicket. Ow, that hurt! The horse thought so too, slowing down in the night, and Violet looks out.

'We lost them I think, Angus.'

'That's the second time you've called me Angus, Violet.' You turn around. 'Why did you go to the village, Violet?'

'Uh... I was... getting supplies.' She seems a little hesitant.

'You were not getting supplies. Did you get any supplies? I didn't-'

'I lost them while running, Angus, I wouldn't be lugging them around would I?' Suddenly her eyes flash with anger in the moonlight, but after a few moments, as you absorb that reaction, she tries to make up for it by squeezing you. 'Sorry. I'm sorry. You saved my life, and I am rude.'

'Who is Cordo?'

She loosens her grip. 'I'd rather not-'

'It's a bit too late for that, Violet, your friend nearly killed me.'

'He was a wanderer, passed by the inn once, stayed for half a month. And I-' she looks away. 'We are rather well acquainted, if you will pardon my discretion.'

Oh. Well, that's awkward... you continue riding in the deep, stew-like silence, figuring out which way seems to be north. You've ridden in practically every cardinal direction since yesterday, bloody hell.

> What do or say? If you persist, you need to frame the questions.
> Roll d100 for memory.

Rolled 60

>>25719474
"Listen, I understand the want for privacy and all that, but If I'm eloping with a woman I'd at least like the presence of mind she's not some kind of... retired master thief prostitute or something."

Rolled 97

>>25719474
"Wait what, I stayed in the inn for a month and you never had carnal relations with me! Is it the nose? It's the nose, I bet."

Anyhow, you're now targeted for death by her insane ex-boyfriend assassin stalker, better get some distance between you.

Rolled 12

>>25719474

>>25719509
Damned retired master prostitute-thieves. Tricking honest sorta-nobles into eloping with them.

Rolled 49

>>25719474
If she isn't a virgin the marriage is off.
We aren't some damned savages

Rolled 93

>>25719474
"Dammit woman, what were you thinking?

Running off before dawn. Anything could have happened to you, even if there WEREN'T raiders pillaging and burning all over."

>>25719534
It shouldn't be a surprise to a worldly man like ourselves that some common tavern barmaid isn't a virgin. We knew it right from the start.

Rolled 46

>>25719560
She was betrothed to a man.
If she's not a virgin we're writing an angry letter to her father and sending her home

This is quickly turning into >https://images.4channel.org/f/src/HOW%20MANY%20DICKS.swf

>>25719509
>>25719512
>>25719534

You ride on for a while more, before you realise you've been going the wrong damned way - before you is a chilling sight of more flickering torches. But then Violet says, 'I think that's Goxtyn there,' the tension seems a bit relieved.

'So you slept with that Cordo.'

'I didn't... I... no, actually. But we were close. Just as you and I are now close, but we have not... slept. But you've touched me, haven't you?'

Oh yes, you have. Oh, grow up, Angus. Anyway, that's slightly comforting... you think? 'For a moment I thought it was my nose that put you off,' you said, and as she bursts into giggling, you remember the miller's son's words as you rode off with Violet's hand:

'You have no idea who she is!'

Or something like that. Is there something else with this Violet, you wonder... meanwhile she leans forward, against your back. 'You know, if we are headed for Goxtyn, we're pretty much on the eastward path. But I think we should head that way, for the River Yew.'

'Why's that?'

'Cordo told me something when I met him,' she whispers. 'He says the Count of Trenton has put out the assassins after you. I showed him the letter you took from the guard.' She passes it to you. YOU KNEW YOU FORGOT SOMETHING. 'If we head south, we are passing through Trenton County.'

> Well, well. No supplies, but at least you avoided walking through a trap-strewn county...
> The sky is showing hints of blue now. Violet falls asleep. You are in the middle of a field, and the light of the village being torched is in the distance. What do?

>>25719650
Ride hard for River Yew, through the night if necessary.

Rolled 87

>>25719650
>Oh yes, you have
We're promiscuos? What sort of disgusting animal is Angus?
I guess we go to sleep, but find somewhere to hide us whilst we sleep so we don't attract unwanted attention

>>25719710
I think the sky showing hints of blue means it's day light.

>>25719710

Don't have to be promiscuous to like a pretty girl's tits. That's natural.

But yeah find a quiet place and sleep.

>>25719710
>>25719728
Guys, we literally just woke up a few minutes ago.

>>25719738

... point. Ride for Goxton?

We don't know the way to the Yew...

>>25719650
Well, I was in favour of the road, but not if it takes us into the Lions den.

The river it is.

We have a beard. If we get the chance, shave.
If we change our look a little and give a fake name until we reach our goal, we might be able to avoid any more shit.

Also, ask if she knows what County we're in right now and who is raiding. Who the fuck is running around burning down random villages?

In our future dealings as a Lord, this is something we should know.

>>25719751
>You know, if we are headed for Goxtyn, we're pretty much on the eastward path.
>But I think we should head that way, for the River Yew.
The River Yew is to the east, past Goxtyn.

>>25719602
Well, nobody's perfect.

>>25719773
>>25719758
>>25719751
>>25719738
>>25719694

> Incidentally. Is Angus *jealous* about Violet? Awww.

You don't feel sleepy, unlike Violet. You wonder why that is. Something about riding into a burning village and nearly getting killed several times by maniacs on horseback, perhaps.

Riding slowly, sensing the fatigue of your horse, you move slowly across the fields, enjoying the surreal silence of the pre-dawn hours. You rarely are up and about at this time, but despite the chill in the air and a slight mist, you feel strangely... calm.

Soon you are near the walls of Goxtyn, and can see the few torches being slowly put out one after the other. Fuel saving, guys. The gates are not yet open. On the far side of the town, just visible in the mist, is an expanse of water - is that the River Yew? That didn't take too long.

You could follow that path, of course - rivers always have villages along them. Or, you could go to Goxtyn and get some food, because now you *are* hungry too. You feel a slight wetness on your left arm, then realise to your shock that you are bleeding. Peeling away the cloth, you see two nearly parallel marks.

Must have been that beast, you think. Damn, they're dangerous. You're not camping outside anymore.

> What do?

>>25719850
Maybe we can steal an unattended raft in these early dawn hours. For now, call up and ask the guys at the gate if they can throw down a sack of potatoes or something if we throw up a silver peace.

>>25719891
Seems unwise, they'd probably just keep the coin. We should ask them when the gates open though.

>>25719891
>>25719914

You ride up, in the mist, to the nearest gate you can see, and get the welcome you might have expected - suddenly someone says 'HALT!' and about six spearheads are pointed your way. You know, having a proper courser is nice, but people do get suspicious of such fine horses and their riders.

Violet stirs behind you. 'Mmmmpf.'

'People. People. I'm just here to ask when the gates open.'

'What, so you can come in and torch Goxtyn as well? Your lords in Belleway won't stop until you've killed everyone in Maldon, will you?'

'I don't even know where Belleway is,' you say. Well you know, but vaguely. Maldon, Belleway... you're not far from the south coast is for sure.

'Yes, and I don't know where my father lives.'

'You don't, Jorick. Your father-'

'Oh, piss off. Anyway, the gates will open for you when the gods come back to scour the earth! And you've got six pikes to contend with if you wish to challenge that, sir.'

> Pfffft. What do/say?

>>25720070
"Then can you throw down some food or something? We're starving and I don't quite fancy asking the raiders for a meal."

>>25720142

You sigh. 'Well then. Can I buy food from you, then?'

Violet sits up behind you. 'Huh. Where are we?'

'Wait, he's got someone else with him!' That sounds like an overly interested statement, seeing as the someone else is a rather attractive young lady. You can leave now if you feel threatened - not that six pikeheads aren't in themselves quite threatening.

Or you can let Violet do the talking, or something like that...

> What do?

>>25720252
Let Violet do the talking.

>>25720252
"Gee, eagle eyes. She's only been on the back of my horse the whole time. How ever did you spot her?" Dripping with sarcasm, of course.

>>25720344
It is always a good idea to sass people with weapons behind city walls, remember to do this always kids!

>>25720424
>inb4 "What're you gonna do, stab me?"

>>25720252
Might as well let Violet try talking some sense into them

>>25720424
>>25720344
>>25720275

> Discretion. Discretion. (This is going to be like your House Motto, at this rate. House McHoller - Exercise Discretion.)

You glance back. 'Yes, there's someone with me. As you may have noticed.'

'Let me down,' Violet murmurs, and then stumbles down the horse, landing on her knees. The guards come up, and she stands up and walks up to the nearest guard, leaning in to talk.

You see the guard's eyes open a little wide, and then after a bit more, he nods. And nods again. Two more guards come up, but then he steps back. 'Yes. Yes. Certainly, my, uh, Violet, was it?'

'Mm.'

'Okay. You can go in. Go open up the side gate, guys. Get off your horse and walk it in, though.'

... well, you are not going to complain, are you? As you walk your horse in, following Violet under the watchful eyes of many of the guards, you enter a town still mostly asleep. Violet turns to you.

'Well, what should we- oh dear heavens, you're injured! We are going to the apothecary.'

> What do/say?

>>25720344
>>25720424
Do not sass. It's not becoming of a noble, and it's a terrible idea besides.

>>25720501
"I am incredibly confused right now. Anyway, they're just scratches. Nothing some bandages won't fix."

>>25720529

Damn. I'm confuse as well.

'What the hell did you tell them?'

>>25720529
Knowing our luck we'll have been poisoned.

>>25720501
I get the feeling no matter what we say she is going to drag us there anyway so might as well let her.

Also, why is it out of the two characters Violet seems to be the competent one?

>>25720529
>>25720596
>>25720599

'No need to fuss. I'm fine.'

'You're not fine. You're bleeding all over your sleeve.'

'Stop- ow!' You shut up momentarily, realising there were two drunks who had heard you and were watching the two of you. 'Anyway, what did you tell them? How are we here so easily?'

'I talked some sense into them, that's all,' she said. 'Anyway, after the apothecary, what should we do? What *are* your plans, lord Mc-'

'Shhhh. Don't call me that. We ought to fix up a fake name.'

'You have a point... what are your plans, though?'

As you talk, you find a drinks house that is either open really early, or could not be closed due to profound drunkenness. Probably the latter, since the barkeep is slumped over the bar and the candle is almost burned out. You sit, and continue to resist the calls to visit an apothecary.

> Okay. Stock-taking time. What sort of plans do we have? What are we trying to achieve now?
> Also, who is this Violet exactly?

>>25720670
Oh fine, visit the damn apothecary.
As for the moment, our plans are to catch a raft or a boat going south. Or take one. Or just ride along the river. Point is go south on the River Yew until we hit the bay.

>>25720640

Aww. Don't put yourself down like that. You fought off an unidentified creature and saved Violet's life! That counts for something.

... right? Also, just as you think that, she seems to have stopped fussing after looking at your wound. 'That's an odd wound. Someone cut you?'

'I'll explain...'

'Anyway it doesn't look like it's bleeding anymore, so. Fine.'

>>25720696

Mostly agree with this. Looks like it's boat trip time.

But then someone did say that on a boat you can't run which makes sense. Should we go by road but follow the river instead?

>>25720696
Seems like good a plan as any.

Also we should really look into getting some food as we are no doubt kinda starving at the moment.

Rolled 90

>>25720670
I don't suppose this Kingdom has socialism? I don't think we can pay for healthcare.

>>25720842
>>25720807
>>25720789
>>25720696

Before anything, you go to the barkeep and nudge him. But then a young boy comes out of the kitchen, and you order some food from him with your piece of silver.

Soon you are staring at two large bowls of stew, three slices of rough, rustic bread and a small hunk of cheese. And then soon you're not just staring at them anymore, you fool.

'Mmm. So good. So *good*.'

It's a simple stew, but you do agree. You tell Violet about your plan, to follow the river down to Yewton, as she suggested.

'But you haven't the letter, have you? I mean, we lost it to uh, that man...'

'Yes, but it said to give it to Ang- to me, by name. Specifically. So if I can prove my identity...'

'Ah, yes,' Violet says, in a distinctly unconvinced tone of voice. 'That... would make sense. Well, if we are going down the river in a boat, we should try travelling with a convoy. There's plenty of those convoys going down the Mald.'

'The Mald?'

'The river behind us? That's the Mald.'

'What of the Yew?'

'The Mald reaches the Yew. It's not a very long trip, honestly. And in any case, the rowers will do for us, so we can just relax.' Violet smiles. 'I could do with relaxation right about now. When should we set off? Spend some hours here, or go straight for the docks?'

> What do? If you're on a convoy, you suspect resupply might be... unreliable. But surely some arrangements can be made; you just need to make them.
> Or if you have any urban errands to run, emails to write, phones to charge... what are phones and emails?

Rolled 72

>>25720943
Look for some work as a hauler or something with a convoy. Then join up with that convoy. I hope to God we're strong and masculine and not some skinny faggot.

>>25720697
"Oh it's nothing, some beast tried to have me for a dinner tonight, but I scared it away with panache and finesse. I'm glad that I don't believe in those tales about werewolves, because it sure could've been one judging by it's size!"

>>25720971
We describe ourselves with the word 'svelte', I'd imagine. We're a noble, not longshoreman.

Rolled 40

>>25721001
I wish the nobles were like Charlemagne and William the Conquerer and not like filthy modern noble weaklings ;_;

>>25721040
We're not unfit, just kinda thin since we don't always know where to get our next meal.

>>25721102
>>25721040
>>25720971
>>25720975
>>25721001

Well, you're not longshoreman-sized, because that is for common soldiers. But you're not really svelte either. After all, despite your noble blood, you haven't really been handfed grapes and cheeses in your life, what with your family circumstances.

So no, you are a vigorous and strong man, just not very formidably built. Wiry, if wires existed then.

Meanwhile, you explain the beast attack to Violet, who shakes her head. 'The luck! Those creatures are pretty common, but I didn't think we'd run into them. They have a lot of those in Yewton, though, where they might prey on sheep.'

'That is very good to know, Violet. I'm glad I've been forewarned. I think, maybe if I manage to find some work as a hauler or a rower on the boats...'

'Why would you do that? You could-' she stops herself. 'You, uh, you could be a guard. Requires less rowing. Rowing is *hard*, honestly.'

She does have a point...

> What say/ask/do? Shall we head off now?

Rolled 3

>>25721102
I know, I'm just sharing my disgust at 'nobles' that aren't manly. Though, I guess we aren't really a real noble because we've been living by the day. On the bright side, we become a real man once we get to our fiefdom.

>>25720971
I thought we were racing someone to our destination?

We sure are taking a lot of detours.

Rolled 47

>>25721143
Tell her that it's a good idea and then head off to the docks. No point in leacing it to the last minute.

>>25721143
what was she ABOUT to suggest?

>>25721183
We could let sailors ply our anus for trade, obviously.

Rolled 85

>>25721165
I meant a hauler for some convoy, we haul for them and then they take us to where we need to go

>>25721143
Sounds like a plan.

I swear Violet is the brains in this operation. Not that i'm complaining of course as that means she is helping us out.

>>25721178
>>25721261
>>25721183

'You know, you have a good point. Let's go now.'

Already slightly suspicious, you decide to leave it until she is a bit more relaxed before asking her the question. And so you wait until the sun is peeking up over the walls and you can smell the river.

... it's not a nice smell - mud, grime, more mud, fish, sweat. But the waters of the Mald stretch before you soon enough, and just as the sun is rising over them too.

'It's lovely!'

'It's lovely, isn't it?' You smile. 'Now. What were you going to suggest instead of me hauling? You weren't asking for me to be a guard at first.'

'Oh, I just thought I'd pay for-' her eyes widen, and then she sighs and slumps visibly. 'Yes. Yes. I actually do have some money with me...'

You blink. Just then you hear people begin to sing as they get down to work on the docks. No one seems to have noticed you...

> What do? Press the enquiry? Or let it go?

>>25721316
Tell her to save her money for an emergency. We still have a way to go - no point in throwing around the only money we have. Look for a dockmaster to see if we can get a job gaurding a convoy.

>>25721316
"Oh, well that's fine then. Save it for emergencies. Should've told me sooner."

>>25721153
We're going to be a lardass in record time, though. Being poor sucks, so we're gonna compensate hard for that.

>>25721289
That's just business as usual, nobles aren't supposed to run day-to-day affairs like survival.

>>25721424
Excellent.
It's a plan then

>>25721478
Cheerios and goose lard for breakfast, oh my!

>>25721431
But all the best nobles started off as soldiers and farmers.

>>25721376
>>25721420

You frown, trying to figure out what exactly required such secrecy. Was she afraid you'd steal it or something?

'That's nice. We'll have something to fall back on. Should've told me sooner... was that why you went to the village to get supplies?'

'Y-yeah.' She hangs her head a little. Her hair, dark brown and all mussed up by the adventures of the last two days, catches the light nicely, thin strands of dancing gold and copper. You pat her shoulder, then head for the singing boatmen.

'Hey, people. I'd like to ask if there's any convoy here that's headed for the... estuary.' Was it estuary? Or bay?

'Ye mean to Yewton, mate? Yea, be a few hith and tith. OI CARSON! Ye heading to Yewton?'

'Nay, bet Tolls is!'

'Tolls. He'll be hith soon, I reckon. Barrel chest, long beard. Why're ye askin?'

'I'd like to be a guard on a convoy. Head down to Yewton while I earn my keep.'

'With that swerd of yers? Aight then...'

You sit down and wait a while more, and finally Tolls comes, just as he was described. When you ask him, he looks at your 'swerd' and nods.

'Aight, then. O'er there.'

... that was quick. 'When do you set off, captain?'

'Noontime. Meet here an hour ere.'

So much for quick action...

> What do? Or what observe?

>>25721525

We ought to plan ahead and see what to do when we get to Yewton without our papers. Just saying.

Rolled 37

>>25721316
You know, she's doing a very bad job at keeping us from knowing she's someone important here.
People recognize her ("yes certainly my..." lady perhaps?,) she just so happens to know a very capable fighter who just about takes orders from her, she implied she knew the count and she just so happens to have money.
I'm assuming she took this letter (>>25719650
) to show to Cordo and happens to be some form of dispossessed nobility

>>25721575
Oh come on, things like that happen only in cheap adventure novels, not in real life. You've been listening to bards too much!

>>25721575

If so though, why is she helping us? Because she is helping us after all...

>>25721525
I guess we need some supplies for the trip? Find out what we're expected to bring to the ship (or boat or whatever they like to call their dinghies). Might just as well then sightsee the place, you've never been here. Oh also get some lunch, try the catfish.

>>25721666
She loves us and we're to be wed.

Rolled 16

>>25721666
We did just randomly an appointment.
Perhaps she hopes we could back her hopes of regaining her status?
I don't know, just theorizing as to why she's so secretive.

>>25721690
>>25721666
>>25721665
>>25721575

You know, that is quite true. Who manages to get the both of you into a town just like that? Even if she isn't someone, she must *know* someone.

For a moment, looking at her, you wonder if you're being led to the Duke of Pensec to be cooked alive and eaten because the Duke is a nutter. Except if he was, you'd probably know of it.

... or maybe no one lived to speak of it?

'What are you thinking about?'

'Boiled meat. I mean-'

Violet giggles, a sound you haven't heard before. 'Did the captain say yes?'

'Yeah. We should get some dried food with your money, just in case.'

You go around, buying some dried sausages and hardened bread - dear gods, these are hard. Also some fillets of smoked catfish, an appealing, butter-like yellow in colour. How gorgeous.

The town itself seems to be quite ordinary; except for a watchtower and a temple, dedicated to the Goddess Mother of Waters, most of the buildings are small shops or houses. Still, as you walk in the sunlight, the noise and smell of work is beginning - hammering nails, yelling out bread prices, people cooking and boiling things.

Walking in circles with Violet is a nice experience. She seems quite knowledgeable in the workings of towns and cities, pointing out the watermills, the carts carrying small masonry pieces. Soon it is late morning, and you've had another fillet of smoked catfish for breakfast.

'Should we go to the temple to pray? Before we embark.'

> What do?
> If you want to take her somewhere you can take the lead too. Ask for info if you need it; I will distribute, within reason!

>>25721822
"Well, I'm not the most religious sort but I don't see why not."

>>25721822
Go to the temple and pray with all our might because lets be honest here. We don't seem to be the luckiest man in the world.

>>25721949
No, it's a ploy to get us married! Distract her and go for a stroll in the park or something. Also, can you take your horse on the boat or do you need to sell it?

>>25722006

Oh that's a good point. We should probably sell it anyway, in case someone comes looking for a horse like that. We did steal it.

>>25722100
Ooh, good idea. Yes, we should sell the horse.

>>25721949
>>25721991
>>25722006
>>25722100

For some reason you're not that sure Violet even wants to marry you now. Or that the marriage might happen. Well.

'Hmm, well I would, but I remembered the horse. Should we get rid of it?'

Violet nods. 'Oh yeah. Yeah. How about I go to pray, and you can go to sell the horse?'

With that, you head off to the stables near the dock where you kept the beast tethered. You ask the person if he will buy it, and he gives you a price that sounds too low even to your non horse-selling ears.

> Roll d100 to bargain.
> What do after the sale?

Rolled 21

>>25722151
HAGGLE LIKE THE FIST OF THE NORTH STAR

Rolled 98

>>25722151
You know, originally there was talk about ditching Violet and marrying someone more prestigious or wealthy, but she seems to be a woman of surprising talents. Should we engage her in earnest? She's resourceful and easy on the eyes, at least...

Rolled 72

>>25722151

Haggle the shit out of that bastard. That money for a courser!

>>25722216

FALCON BARGAIN!

Then we set off on the boat. If we have the money from the horse, we can slack off at guarding and enjoy ourselves.

>>25722216

> Well, I have the feeling this won't be outdone...

'90 silvers? Bollocks to that. Look at this horse!'

'He's a sprightly one, but-'

'He's a sprightly one, but he's obedient too, is what! I'll have you know...' okay, maybe you shouldn't have him know that the horse took to you easily after you stole him off a dead guard. You had him know other fictional stories instead.

In the end, after a lot of bamboozling and some reinforcement from Violet, who came back with two charms and promptly joined the fray, you seal a deal for 160 silvers. Hah! That'll last you the whole boat trip, you reckon.

'I think that was well done!'

With that you head for the dock you were at this morning, and look at the convoy... bloody hell, it's a *large* convoy. You count a total of 22 ships and barges, the barges carrying lumber and stone and other covered things, some of the ships large, and some small. There's other boats too.

'Hey! So ye're here!' You turn around to see Tolls. 'You get that ship, tith. Se're all passengers, ken, so protect them and keep'em tith, yea?'

'Uh... yea, sir!' And with that you head towards the ship, boarding by a slightly slippery board. Violet seems a little ill at ease. You can hear the noise in the ship already, and a slight sense of claustrophobia runs through you.

> Righto. What do, then?

>>25722376

Hmm... maybe look around the stations? Or look for other guards?

>>25722454

Hmmm. You head for the foc's'le, where presumably the commanders will be, but there all you find is a mass of people working and arguing, and when you go up to ask for instructions one of them just says the guards are there to look after the passengers.

'Don't be buggerin' about hith with the crew, ye're in the way hith!'

Fair enough. The ship is a pretty large affair, with a poop deck that is raised to form a tower. As you head back amidships, the ship begins to slip its moorings along with all the others, and there is a chorus of yells and hollers as you leave the safety of dry land.

Oh wait, you nearly got killed about thrice in the last two days. Good riddance, dry land.

The passengers - there must be nearly a hundred of them - are a pretty noisy, and quite malodorous lot. Well, some are malodorous. The upper decks in the stern are clearly where the more distinguished guests are; it'd be nice if you could insinuate your way up there...

> What do?

>>25722593
Ponder what on earth hith really means. Perhaps take up wood carving and kick our feet in the water and start speaking with a cuntry drawl.

>>25722638

Sounds like 'hither' shortened...

Wood carving and socialising. Go up to deck, get some fresh air. Check on Violet.

>>25722593
Eh, keeping the lower class in order shouldn't be too hard and you never know who you might find!

Though I would laugh if we bumped into that bandit among them.
>>25722638
>>25722690
Sounds like a plan.

>>25722638
hith and thith seem to mean here and there. Probably hither and thither as >>25722690
suggests.

>>25722763
>>25722717
>>25722690
>>25722638

> Wait, which bandit?

You don't really need to drop your accent far to start sounding like one of the riff-raff, and since you are going about armed everyone figures you are a guard. Conversations quieten ever so slightly as you walk past, trying to figure if you should be friendly guard or nasty guard.

Well, neither for now.

More exploration increasingly makes you convinced this is more than a mere means of transport. I mean, certainly the amidships, with its hollering oarsmen, sails being reefed and unfurled, and exposed to the sun, is a mere means of transport. But the stern! You go up to a reinforced door, open it; a guard sees your sword and smiles.

'Place isn't open yet, mate,' he says. 'Not till we're halfway down the Mald, at least.' You can smell something nice, vaguely like incense, wafting in the background.

> What do/say?

>>25722876
"Thanks for the tip, mate." I dunno what the fuck he's talking about, but who wants to look like an idiot?

>>25722763
>>25722690
>>25722638

Also, yes, hith and thith is hither and thither, which means 'here' and 'there' to them (unlike in our English).

You also notice, incidentally, that most of the people amidships give the stern a wide berth. Given the position of the guards, that sounds like one of the things you're being paid to maintain...

>>25722916

This, then we look around for interesting people. Ask them about the ship.

>>25722916
>>25723076

You look around, then nod. 'Thanks for the tip, mate.'

Walking back out into the sunlight, you wonder what on earth that was. The interior is pretty lavish, it must be said; you spotted some silk hangings and tapestries inside.

Meanwhile, from the upper deck, you can see all the ships going underway - barges behind, each towed by a ship with extra oarsmen, while the sailing ships move in a line ahead. The Mald is not a particularly big river, though, so your fleet literally fills up the river.

'Not bad, isn't it, this boat?' You turn to see a man, with long black hair and a square jaw, and a certain noble bearing about him. 'I saw you go into the poop deck. Are you an honoured guest?'

'Not really, no. Just a guard.'

'But your scabbard suggests otherwise,' he gestures. Wow, he's observant. A few more people like him on a ship you can't escape, and you're in trouble. 'Where're you headed? I'm going to Yewton. Name's Fernan, by the way.'

> What do/say?

>>25722876
By bandit I mean that priest who tied us up.

>>25723156

Hmm, shall I wrap it up here, people? It's Saturday night. Go get your brain cells properly pickled and throw ping pong balls at half-filled plastic cups.

Again, Twitter is @stratocumulus1, and I'll be seeing you again, possibly tomorrow.

Hope everyone's enjoyed it!

>>25722216

This sounds like a plan. But let's not commit too early... if we don't manage to get the title it'd all be in vain.

>>25723156
The man is obviously lying, we haven't been to toilet on this ship!
>>25723341
Sure, thanks for your work OP!

>>25723509

Thanks! I might see you, and others, tomorrow as well.

Also, the poop deck is the bit in the stern. (But you probably knew that.)

>>25723583
I'm a simple man, I never let facts get in the way of toilet humor.

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