He sits bare chested save for the wrappings about his chest, a compress for the wound he had received rescuing you from the knife of an assassin. Sunken chest, sunken eyes, bowed in shoulders, and a face covered in a patchy blond beard tells you all you need to know about how he had been doing these months.

When he finishes his tale he does so with head turned away from you, scratching at a scar on his forearm, eyes pinched as if against a harsh light. And he takes a wine cup offered by a servant quickly, downing it. Still, there was the start of a nervous smile on his face. The beginnings of a new hope.

You clap the man on the shoulder as you rise from your seat. As good as it has been to renew your friendship, other matters pressed. You had to meet with Lord Gerard soon to discuss the pressing business of Ascalon, and then you had to find time to meet with some of the other nobles present.

The renowned troubadour Marcabru stood tall. He made no overt gestures, but drew the attention of the crowd. Young men and women both jostled for position, keen to be closest to witness the performance. No one made great cries for attention, but waited with expectant silence.

He had in hand a lute, long necked with hand caressing it, the other low on the drum, fingers with trepidation above the strings. Eyes scanned the crowd, eyes narrowed with a curling smile. The man controlled the court in this moment. More so than any king or emperor. And when he started, he started of course, with his first instrument. His voice.

"Bel m'es quan son li fruich madur..."

'It's beautiful when fruits are ripe...' a song of love and temptation that made the women of the court swoon.

> tarry a moment and listen
> no, best be to Lord Gerard

Lost my trip. Sorry for the hiatus, and sorry to say after this thread there will be another one.

It's back! DICK LO VULT.

>>37984988
>> no, best be to Lord Gerard

Woooo you are back. As much as i would like to see him bard i think it is best we get to scheeming and plotting

>>37984988
>> tarry a moment and listen

>>37984988
>> tarry a moment and listen
We are a bard.

>>37984988
> tarry a moment and listen

>>37984988
> tarry a moment and listen

wonder if we are gonna see Sabeen walk back in all flustered.

>>37985537
Hugo has the worst luck when it comes to love. His heart points to a girl who's a Muslim, he has to gave a crossbow wedding with the noble girl, and the other option is to gay it up with Jacque in secret. Actually, that last one seems like it'll have the least backlash, Jacque seems like he knows how to be covert.

>>37985597
>has to have a crossbow wedding*

You pause and watch the performance. As something of a troubadour yourself, you could only stand in admiration at the skill Marcabru had. Not just for the sweetness of his voice, nor for how skillfully his fingers fell upon string, but for the way he stood, the crook of his knee and tilt to his head. You saw it for what it was, a manner to draw in the attention of the crowd, holding their gaze to him as surely as his voice commanded their ears.

A woman stood, clutching hands to her chest, face bright and eyes wide. A man grinned, arm placed carefully about her hip, eyes switching from her to the performance. None dared interrupt the great troubadour. Marcabru's performance would tolerate no interruption.

As he closed out his first piece it was answered by the enthusiastic applause of the crowd, women most evident in their waving for his eye, but he was too seasoned to be distracted by the fluttering favours of high stationed women. Instead he ran a hand along the strings of his lute again, threw his head back.

"Now my friends, a new piece just for you, in honour of our Spanish brothers cleaning out the Moor from Iberia. For they lead us all by example," and he set fingers to work once more, his voice carrying out a tune for the warrior-nobles of Jerusalem to savor. One of martial fire, the clearing out of pagan and heathen rats from lands that had once belonged to honest Christian men.

You felt a stirring in your heart that you felt was beating in the hearts of other men in the crowd. A righteous fire. It was god's will that Christian rule be restored to Europe, and to all the Holy Places. Men beat along to the tune their stamped feet, clutching sword hilt in hand. It was a powerful effect. It was almost frightening. You resisted the impulse to be carried along.

It was not in your nature to be controlled by others, and you saw through his theatrics even as they sought to pull you under the troubadour's spell.

"He is a powerful voice in our fight," it was Sir Rodrigo, at your shoulder. Though the man had clear Moorish blood, his eyes gleamed and smile broke at the song of righteous battle. You nodded, there was no denying it. "Word has it you are something of a voice as well," he added. You would not claim false modesty.

"This is said of me," you admitted.

Rodrigo smiled at that as well. "We should talk some time, perhaps tomorrow," and he gave you a friendly squeeze upon the shoulder before walking away on other business. Others had gathered to listen. Sir Etienne stood some pace back, speaking with Mohmed. The young doctor looked on to the crowd with some worry, no doubt his Moslem nature frightened by the song and the building fire of martial fury in the crowd. Etienne seemed also aware, keeping himself a shield between the young man and the sly glances of hot blooded young men.

> remain a while longer and enjoy the rest of Marcabru's performance
> no, you would be leaving Gerard waiting

>>37985691
> no, you would be leaving Gerard waiting

>>37985691
> no, you would be leaving Gerard waiting

>>37985691
> no, you would be leaving Gerard waiting

Guy is already grumphy as it is.

>>37985691
>Partake of a wine

Hey, what was the name of that fortress city we wanted to take over?

>>37985993
Ascalon

>>37986018
Hmm... Are there any strategies we could use for taking such a place? Not only do we have to take the castle, we also have to look like we did most of the work.

While you certainly appreciated a chance to watch a master of the craft perform, you had more pressing concerns. Peeling away from the crowd, you set a course for the castle proper, ducking out of the courtyard and its crowded assembly of the rich elite of this corner of the Holy Land. While you went you plucked an apple from a tray, wolfed down on it.

You passed Sabeen on the way. She did not notice you at first. She stood in the shadow of pillar, darker for the shadow that masked her, head pressed against the wall, hand against the stone. Trembling. Strange woman, it made you pause a second to consider her. But then she turned and saw you, gave you a slight nod, leaned back against the wall with arms crossed every part the warrior you knew, little in her eyes but disdain for the goings on of the nobility. Still, perhaps something to speak with her about.

But not now. For now you entered the body of the sea fort, and made your way to find Lord Gerard. A servant gave you small direction, up a stair case to the rear of the fortress. A small library the man kept. You came in to the sound of hushed conversation.

He stood with a book open on a good red desk, finger prodding the page and owlish face gleaming. He was showing your concubine Chihirizahd a passage, drawing her to look closer with an arm upon her shoulder. He seemed well pleased by the cut of her dress, head close to that low neckline.

You coughed and his head bobbed up, a lightly drunk smile upon his face.

"Ah, Wilhelm," he said, creasing out the page with the palm of his hand, "I was just becoming acquainted with your guest."

>>37986079
surround the place, blockade the port and make sappers take down the walls and just wait it out. A head on assault would most likely only lead to failure

>>37986102
"Lord Gerard was showing me the chronology of his house," she said, expression very soft, eyes very wide and body demure. The ingenue, the innocent brown maiden of the desert. A skillful lie of the body. As good a performer as Marcabru in her way.

"Rare to find a Saracen that can read the Latin script, so in love they are with Arabic," he remarked, smoothing the fabric on Chihirizahd's shoulder before withdrawing the hand entirely.

"She is a woman of remarkable talent," you replied, coming to place your own hands upon the desk. The smile you wore spoke of more than just her ability to read.

Gerard drummed his fingers. "We heard of your attempted murder, the culprit has been securely locked up. If you'd like you may question him yourself," a generous offer.

"Later," you said, "We had a matter to discuss."

Gerard nodded. "Yes, this plan of yours that you were so very cryptic about. Lay it before me. Fruit and toil both so that it might be properly weighed, one against the other."

Of course, even lightly drunk and charmed by the perfumed touch of your concubine, those shrewd owl eyes were still sharp and his manner still that of the cagey horse trader as much as the noble lord. He took a seat and offered one to you, leaning back and waiting.

It was on your words that he would join your cause. Luckily, words were the greatest weapon in your armory.

> roll 1d100, best of three

Rolled 88 (1d100)

>>37986127

Rolled 86 (1d100)

>>37986127
dice gods have clearly missed you HF

Rolled 26 (1d100)

>>37986127

Hope he will also bring his brother into this

>>37986186
>>37986151

Odd. I was sure that this was Crusader Quest.

>>37986224
Hiatus does strange things to dice

>>37986224
>>37986253
This is the dice getting us to lower our guard

>>37986354
We are sooo gonna get our face smashed in at the melee tomorrow, arent we ?

>>37986372
you mean Hugo?

absolutely but we better get so sweet loot

>>37986224
This was a social roll, not combat. Fear not.

>>37986372
Well if assassins are after us there is nothing more subtle than a little accident at the scrimmage. Jousting is mostly landed knights & lords so probably less a chance of foul play (not that we couldn't die anyway) but i believe the Melee is a more open event.

>>37986504
One good thing about a melee is that it is a team vs team which means we can probably use leadership

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>>37985659
>but for the way he stood, the crook of his knee and tilt to his head

we Hugo's bizarre crusade now

>>37986611
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0w9DUTcAI0o
>What Hugo will be to Wilhelm one day mechanically.

Cool. A quest about a crusader. Time to start taking notes

>>37986682
May i sugges you read the archive

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive.html?tags=crusader+quest

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/34104261/

>>37986729
Read I shall. And steal as much as I find applicable

> 88

You lean back in your own chair, drawing his book over to you. You opened it to a page, that of his grandfather.

"idon was taken by the sword, in a great effort by good Christian men," you said, "A coalition of lords from across Europe, bound together to save Christendom from the depredations of the Saracen. They fought like lions all, and won many spoils. They did so against all odds, in truth were it not for God's will it would have been a failure. Should have, when looked at on paper. Take it as proof that Jesus is with us, and loves us best."

"Or that the Saracen was distracted and without clear leadership," Gerard rejoined, "And we exploited that by driving hard and fast."

You nod. "That as well. The Saracen was weak. They are still weak, and lacking for leadership. Too long has Jerusalem concerned itself only with Jerusalem. It is past time we considered the lessons of our forefathers, and returned to the way of driving out the Saracen with steel, to reap our reward both earthly and divine." You leaned forward. "Now is the time. If we wait any longer I fear a man will come to make them strong again, and then it will be the final hour of Christian Jerusalem. We must strike in these days of unity."

Gerard's brow lowered, eyes low to consider his own hands, twinned upon his chest. "We are not so united as all that," he said, "Even brothers do not stand together." Of course, his twin.

You formed a fist on the tabletop. "If brother fights brother it is because they lack a real enemy to fight. I point you to the south, to the sick old Caliphate, so caught up in killing each other for that devil's throne. I would point you to Ascalon, from which the heathen sends raiders to harass our gentlefolk on land and sea. Taking it will open up the coast of Sinai, the freedom of our own counter-attack on the Moslem."

Gerard raised an eye. "And trade," he spoke the word like his tongue was honey, the glint of silver in his eyes.

"And trade," you agreed, "Another port to draw from."

He sat forward. "Who else stands with you?" he asked, uncertain but questioning.

You smiled. "Do the Queen's Men not stand together? Count Hugh is in accord at least, and the Queen herself has made some token of support."

That made him smile. "We will need more than that," he said.

"We?" you ventured.

Gerard nodded. "We," he said, "Let me speak on this with my brother, and the guests I have gathered."

Of course, he was the host and it was his right.

"I doubt you would get Tripoli or Edessa to join though they are friends," he said as he stood, "They have that wily Turk, Zengi, to contest with, but consider the Prince of Galilee and the lords of Oultrejordan. They are hot for action, and old supporters of Fulk. You must court your rival as well as your friends."

"So you are my friend Lord Gerard?" you asked as you stood as well.

He offered you his hand. "In this action at least, yes I am your friend." He smiled widely when you took it, the forces of Sidon now promised to your action.

When you went to go Gerard took one last moment to speak into Chihirizahd's ear. Whatever the ugly man had said caused her to giggle, playfully put a hand to his chest, but once you were out her attention was back to you.

"You did well," she murmured, tipping up to speak into your ear, her breath stirring the hairs on the back of your neck.

"As did you," you replied, putting a hand to the small of her back. Certainly her charms had softened the usually sour Lord Sidon.

The night had grown late, and with a melee on the morrow you might need your rest. Still, if you wanted you could speak with a companion. Some courtiers were still playing to the night, men and women both, keeping company by the flickering, smokey braziers against the night chill.

> retire for the night
> speak with a companion (nominate)

>>37986911
> retire for the night

>>37986911
> speak with a companion (nominate)

Chiri.

Want to hear what her thoughts are since we have arrived to Sidon were we first met

And i want to hear if she can teach us French, we really, really need to learn French.

Also baby making

>>37986911
> speak with a companion (nominate)
>>37986965

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>>37986878
>If we wait any longer I fear a man will come to make them strong again, and then it will be the final hour of Christian Jerusalem

yo wassup?


>>37986911
>Speak with a companion

Chiri or perhaps Etienne if she elects too much suspicion

Bet Chihirizahd didnt expect to become a lords lover when she wanted to tell Wilhelm how much she liked his music that night

>>37986911
> speak with a companion (nominate)
Which nun did we bring, Etain? Anyway, she's noble enough to mingle with the young voices.

>>37987023
>yo wassup?

Dont you have Shia's to kill ?

So what's so bad about Zoroastrianism in this time?

>>37986911
> speak with a companion (nominate)

Chihirizahd

>>37987103
>So what's so bad about Zoroastrianism in this time?

Everything

>>37987103
It is pretty much dead and gone and the few there are left are considered heathens or worse

>>37987125
>Everything

>he doesnt want to bang his close relatives

>>37987125
But don't Muslims hate it?

>>37987130
>Implying I dont want to bang my niichan

>>37987133
yes so do Christians.

>>37987125
HE-RE-TIC
HE-RE-TIC
HE-RE-TIC

>>37987161
Quiet pagan scum, don't make me crucify you.

>>37987154
But "the enemy of my enemy is my friend," no?

>>37987195
Anon, anyone who might follow Zoroastrianism is in Persia, very far away and we have to go through Syria to get there. Also they are not gonna give two shits about Eqypt

>>37987179
*shame*
I meant to quote the Anon who first asked the question.

Hey, can Charizard learn how to do fireballs with her witch magic?

>>37987286
This is a no magic game anon.

>>37987300
So there's no higher powers at work here at all?

>>37987338
only god & he doesn't give it to filthy pagans

>>37987338
Ofcourse. There is God almighty

>>37987338
Wilhelm is empowered by his own intelligence

>>37987375
Nah. Wilhelm believes in God. He just consider his word more as guidelines

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>>37987375
>Intelligence

but that's wrong

>>37987375
Wilhelm's god is silver and what is between womens legs

>>37987442
>not thirty pieces of silver

YOU.FUCKED.UP

>>37987415
>>37987422
>>37987442
*tips Lance*

You decided to get a sight of the city from the battlements, and with it your concubine. You took up the stairs that led to the walls that overlooked water, and across the water the dying lights of the city preparing for sleep. The common folk were celebrating as much as the nobility, and still there were revelers about, some voices you could hear crying from the dock, as well as the noisome barking of dogs and other things. Still, it was not so loud, the sounds were fading as people retired to renew their celebrations on the morrow.

You leaned against the stone of the wall, hands together, considering.

Chihirizahd leaned against you, arms about your torso and shoulder, pressed to you for warmth against the chill sea air.

"How do you like the view?" you asked.

"Better from here than from there," she said, gesturing to the city.

The two of you had met in Sidon what felt an age ago, though it hadn't even been a year. Fortunes change on a hair it seemed, in the Holy Land more so than any where else.

"It is beautiful," you said considering her, framed against the long, ocean waves as she looked into the city. Perhaps she was looking for that den you had plucked her from, that little hole in the wall where she had been kept in bondage, forced to serve men in their hired beds. You were pleased to think that you had never forced anything from her.

She looked up at you with an honest smile, bushed the crown of her head, that thick mane of black hair, against your neck. For a moment you could be thought of as simple lovers considering the simple beauty of a night overlooking the waves. But she was a pagan, committed as such, and your slave besides. Perhaps there was love there between you, love shared even, but she would remain always your slave.

That was how it must be while she clinged to her heathen ways, a last desperate hold to her life before she had been taken in chains.

Neither of you had any illusions about what life was, but for a moment that illusion was very tempting.

The two of you withdrew from the battlements after a long, mostly silent hour. Withdrew to your chambers, and in your bed continued to play with that illusion as you pressed her on your bed, laid her down upon her belly and pressed down upon her back, drawing out of her more honest smiles and sounds of pleasure. Cupped her to you as your tongues worked together, fingers journeyed down the familiar paths that you knew brought forth greater cries.

And when you were done and lay together naked in the dark, two sweat covered bodies, your mind turned away from illusions to more practical matters. She panted still against you, last shudders of your love making leaving her body. You plucked a hair stuck with sweat from your shoulder, smoothed it back against her neck.

"When we are here I find myself lost," you said, "They speak a tongue unfamiliar to me, these Franks."

"You are a Frank," she replied with a playful hand, brushing your hair back.

You rolled your eyes. "Must I correct you every time? Not that kind of Frank. These people are French and I am-"

"German," she said, rolling the word. She sat up, gathering blankets around her knees, "You wish to learn their tongue."

"It would be advantageous," you replied.

"I speak only a little," she replied, "Picked up in passing, but I will teach you what I know until you can find a better tutor."

All to the good," you replied, "But for now, let me teach you something." And you pushed her back against the stand of the bed, pulling away the blankets about her knees. Her laughter turned to giggles and then soft moaning. You taught her well.

The next day you arose refresh from the night's activity. You were only in your breeches, Chihirizahd in her small clothes when a knock came upon your door. Two men stood, one in the colours of Sidon, the other a Moorish looking fellow in maille. They came to you with competing invitations, to join Lord Gerard and watch the melee, or to join the team of Sir Rodrigo and to fight.

Chihirizahd winked at the lad in Sidon colours, who blushed to see such a woman in a state of near nudeness. The Spaniard merely frowned with silent contempt, awaiting your answer.

> watch
> join

>>37987633
I am unsure. Joining would be good to show off. But our War is shit

>>37987633
> watch

Wilhelm aint a fighter

>>37987633
>Watch
We aren't a great fighter.

>>37987633
> watch
given the attempt on our life, unless those of power and men to contribute to the cause are participating. does Rodrigo have men/allies? Etc. If its just individual knights then no, but if otherwise I switch my vote to > join
We would know who's who at least a little right? maybe not?

>>37987633
> watch
Now's the time we can witness the men of talent that we gotta kill off when we march on Ascalon.

>>37987633
> watch
Though I'd love to support the man who wants to have a word with us, I guess most lords won't be on the field

>>37987759
>I guess most lords won't be on the field
We could be on the field and kick ass. You never know how the dice will land.

>>3798777
>You never know how the dice will land
mate......

>>37987777
That's the thing. Good companions enhance Lead, but we don't know how much it weights for small team battles.

We have never barded a skirmish into a rout either

>>37987633
MIght aswell say
>watch

And have HF write the next part right away

"Tell Lord Gerard I will be happy to view the fighting from his box," you told the young page. The boy nodded, and darted off to deliver the message. The Spaniard shrugged. "Best of luck to Sir Rodrigo on the field," you said, offering the man your hand.

"It is God that guides us," the Spaniard replied, ignoring the offered hand as he strode away. Arrogant, it didn't sit right with you as you eyes him off.

Chihirizahd dropped on a silken blue dress, came over to stand with you in the doorway. She pouted. "I would have enjoyed seeing you in the field," she said, trailing a hand up your arm, "The sight of you in battle is quite exhilarating."

"I am not the freebooter any more," you replied, casually brushing back her hair, "A lord has to maintain certain airs, and scrabbling in the dirt with knights would send the wrong impression."

"Perhaps," she replied, "Though warriors flock to warriors, perhaps it might be good to get a little dirt on you." Not terrible advice, but you planned to save your fighting for the heathen. When you left for the day you did so with her a step behind you, the obedient slave. As you went your men gathered. Etienne fell in on your left, Sabeen on your right. Jacques and Hugo strode ahead. The boys carried ugly bruises on theiir faces, but were otherwise in good cheer. Behind you came Maggie and Mohmed. It was a good company of retainers, and was soon joined by Orlando in fresh garb, a sword found some place at his hip and a smile on his face.

As a knight he dislodged Sabeen a step, and took your right flank.

You proceeded into the courtyard, where horses were waiting.

It was quite early, the tourney was to be held outside the north gate of Sidon. Gerard called you over, and you mounted with him. Not alone, other households were gathering about his lordship. The Count of Foix and Marcabru, the young nobles of Sidon, men from Maine and even Sicilian dignitaries.

"Let us look to the day ahead, and be thankful for Christ's blessing," a priest cried, trotting his horse forward.

The man was vaguely familiar to you, but you could not place him.

The competitors were in two teams, one captained by Sir Joyce of the Templars, the other by Sir Rodrigo. You saw Sir Matthias in the Templar camp, being given a peck on the cheek by Jehanne as they trotted off to prepare. Orlando went to assist Jehanne upon her horse, the two speaking with great animation as they rode.

The field had been prepared, shaded stands erected. It was a flat, dusty field, marked off at large distances to accomodate fighters on horseback. Peasants were gathering at the boundaries to watch. Lesser nobles among them. There was a certain fire to the air as a priest gave a sermon and prayers were made. The two camps of warriors forming at opposite sides of that plain.

You climbed the erected stairs to sit in the lord's booth, your other companions finding lesser seating. To your surprise Gerard allowed Chihirizahd to be seated with you, and he kept the pair of you close, a seat of honour, though his hand soon felt at Chihirizahd's thigh as he muttered some witticism in her ear. You spied the lord's wife on his opposite side and she did not seem to notice her husband's touching the other woman. Very deliberately so.

A tug at your arm and you saw Hugo waiting.

"Sir Rodrigo is still looking for more fighters," he said, "And has extended the invitation to squires. Could I join the melee?" He had an eye badly swollen and purple, and a split on his lip, but his eyes shined brightly.

> allow Hugo to fight
> don't

>>37988162
>> allow Hugo to fight
Of course boy, get your War on.

>>37988162
>> allow Hugo to fight

Ofcourse!

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>>37988162
>> allow Hugo to fight

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2dmrr3DxUK4

>>37988162
> allow Hugo to fight

>>37988162
> allow Hugo to fight
>"Sure buddy! ... psst, Sabeen what was up last night?"

>>37988162
> allow Hugo to fight
Don't take Sir Joyce head on, fight with your brothers for every advantage

>>37988162
> allow Hugo to fight

Lend him our Damascus Sword and tell him to make us proud

>>37988302
No, it's been blessed for combat against Muslims. If we lend the gifted sword to our little brother, the holy juju will WEAR OFF.

>>37988302
no seriously, that sword will be of great help to him

>>37988302
This he needs that boost since his war is capped

>>37988366
Now now anon. It would be a great way to show Hugo we have faith in him and it would be a giant help to make him look good

>>37988373
That sword also ignores armor, you know.

>>37988388
also yeah that.

>>37988302
Don't losers lose their arms though in tourneys?

>>37988387
>Showing we have faith in him = "Here, you're not strong enough, take my cool sword!"

>>37988409
No ofcourse not, only if accidents happens.
>>37988419
we are entrusting him with our awesome sword

>>37988400
So we SHOULDN'T lend it out for a sport.

>>37988431
He doesn't need it. This is just a game right now.

>>37988431
>No ofcourse not, only if accidents happens.
He means arms as in weapons. The horse, weapons and armor of the losers could be claimed by the winners - but I think that is in jousts, not melee.

>>37988441
nigga it aint gonna get broke

>>37988441
He could use the stats upgrade
>>37988450
Also no. Not as far as i know

>>37988452
But he could accidentally kill someone, which could be bad.

>>37988452
I don't care about the broke-ness of it, I care about the brokeness of it in a competition like this one. Let Hugo fight with his own power. If Hugo's life were at stake, sure, he can use the sword, but this. is. just. a. GAME.

>>37988469
all the better if he does


sword saint Hugo when?

>>37988366
This. Don't lend out good weaponry for a game.

>>37988463
>Not as far as i know
I'm pretty sure I've also read something like that - but yeah, it was the tradition of ransoming back your horse after losing a joust.

>>37988469
Nah. You are just like Ioveta worrying too much i do however doubt you are just as cute
>>37988474
> is. just. a. GAME.

This is serious business anon!

>>37988483
This isn't Japan, you baka!

>>37988500
>not having at least one saint of war

Christianity a shit we need some weeb shit in this timeline

>>37988494
>Nah. You are just like Ioveta worrying too much i do however doubt you are just as cute
Bitch, you've never seen me in a dress. I'd put our little Greek reverse trap to shame.

>>37988494
>This is serious business anon!
Yes, yes it is, and if you give our little brother the magic armor-slicing muslim-killing sword, things are gonna be fucked reputation wise for us.

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>>37988521
You rang?

>>37988555
>things are gonna be fucked reputation wise for us.

but anon it aint even our sword.

>>37988555
>armor-slicing muslim-killing sword,

Anon it is just a sword a really fancy one but thats it. Nothing that makes it a magical muslim killing. Heck Hugh said his father had stolen it from a muslim lord

>>37988521
This isn't a fucking war. And what you're suggesting isn't very saintly!

>>37988588
[citation needed]

It might be mock combat, but it was still dangerous. Men could die as easily out there as they could on the real thing, and your brother was still young.

But, you had seen him in the press of real combat, his fierce snarl and hard eyes. You had seen him hold his nerve against the screaming Turk, and you saw that nerve in his eyes now. The battlefield was where he was meant to be. The place God had made for him, more so than he had for you. Of that, you were certain. You put a hand to his shoulder and squeezed.

"Arm yourself and prepare, but remember to keep your head," you said, and then you unbuckled your sword, the Damascus sword gifted to you from Count Hugh, and passed it to him, "Show these Franks the cold iron of a German." This last you spoke in your mother tongue for him alone.

He grinned. "Ja," he said. Your grins were reflections of one another, and you brought your forehead to his, clasping the sword between you.

Before he left he paused. "Should I ask a ladies' favour?" he said, nervousness creeping through his eyes as they flicked to the booth below and your assembled party. But then he shook his head. "No, your gift is enough for me."

When he left he was cheered on by your body of men, all except one at least. She looked aside uncertain as Hugo was showered with encouragement not just from your troops but other nobles.

"This should be good," Gerard said, eyeing up the assembled lines of horsemen, armoured in their best, armed with sword and shield. two clusters of veteran men ready to make a mock battle that could easily become all too real.

The priests were droning out last prayers to the Apostles, while in the crowd gambling was being made, bets being swapped.

What about Blaise's Axe? It's hoping for a crit with no shield, but it's the only thing we have

>>37988588
>not having war saints
Foighting righteously is saintly as fuck

Hugo took up in Sir Rodrigo's company on a stallion borrowed from another, just a slight figure next to the heavily armoured men around him. He drew your sword and held it. You could see even at this distance he was starting to feel some nervousness. You prayed for him silently, hoping St Maurice would be his guardian in this endeavour. The other line drew up, Sir Joyce's cmpany. You saw Sir Froggy sitting beside the Templar, trying to draw him into conversation, but the Templar's attention was all upon your brother.

It sent a nervous chill down your spine, remembering the silent grudge he had demonstrated the night before. Perhaps you should not have been so quick to grant permission.

"Care for a wager?" It was Marcabru that spoke, he slid into a seat at your side. "I have good money on the Templar to win, fifty pfennings." The handsome troubadour smiled as he dangled a purse fat with coins.

The melee was about to commence. The crowd was stirring toward the barricades, nobles were hot in their seats.

> take the bet
> no

I wouldn't worry about Hugo slicing and dicing anyone to pieces with the Damascus sword. Most people aren't aiming to kill each other in it.

>>37988656
we only got 48 on us right now so if we are to bed (which i want) it has to be lower

>>37988656
>> take the bet

"Why of course, my good man. You see that young lad out there? The one with the bruises and split lip? Yes, that one. That's my brother. He will carry the day as God himself wills it."

>>37988682
seconding so long as you mean bet not bed

>>37988656
>> take the bet

Hugo show them the lions claws!

>>37988704
argh, sorry i have been awake since 4am so i am a bit tired

>>37988656
Do we have an extra horse to sell or something? Because it sounds nice

>>37988656
> take the bet
Well, of COURSE our brother's going to win. That he would lose isn't even an outcome.

>>37988656
> take the bet

>>37988656
>>37988624
>Before he left he paused. "Should I ask a ladies' favour?" he said, nervousness creeping through his eyes as they flicked to the booth below and your assembled party. But then he shook his head. "No, your gift is enough for me."
That's right bro. Brethren before wenches.


>> take the bet
We can borrow two pfennings.

>>37988656
> no

"I'll match your coin," you said, barely looking away from your brother. You had faith in him to fight, and your early estimate of Rodrigo was a good one. Though you knew Sir Joyce was a tough hand on the field, you doubted some of the others that rode with him.

It seemed a safe bet.

And as the banners dropped, spurs put to horse flesh, you and all the others witnessing (save Lord Gerard, who kept a cool seat) rose to cheer, heart thumping with excitement as the horses dived across the dusty plain, kicking up a storm as they charged.

"Hugo, Hugo!" you roared, a cry caught up by your companions.

> switch POV to Hugo, or remain with Wilhelm?

>>37988816
Hugo

Increases our chances of winning some combat would also be nice

>>37988816
Praying Hugo kills froggy

>>37988816
Remain Wilhelm politic with nobles or talk with the other bard

>>37988816
> switch POV to Hugo

Going to get a bite to eat.

>>37988816
>> switch POV to Hugo

We are so going to win this tourney.

>>37988836
Hey, Froggy's going to father our children to be... He's going to be absent around the households a lot because we hire him so that his wife can raise the kids.

>>37988866
Godspeed.

>>37988816
HA HA TIME FOR HUGO

> switch POV to Hugo,

>>37988816
>remain with Wilhelm
So what happens when we don't bite the PoV change?

File: 1407646757754.jpg (56 KB, 594x383)

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>>37988868
>>37988833
>>37988723
>>37988710
>>37988703

>>37988900
>what could go wrong
Nothing, of course. What...were you expecting consequences? Like dilly dallying while carrying seditious materials to backfire and leading to Wilhelm being imprisoned and put on trial for treason?

>>37989014
Actually that worked out better for us than if we had just gone to the palace

>>37989014
to be fair we were dilly-dallying trying to get in good with uncle besides everything went better than expected.

>>37989014
No, I was referring to how we're baiting the dice gods with hubris.

>>37989054
We have to establish dominace!

>>37989032
>>37989047
The trial would've happened anyway, and we'd have had extra time with Iovetta. Nothing was won except our corpse rotting unelegantly

>>37989077
The dice can murder us but how can we murder the dice?

>>37989079
we got the irish girls and hugo made friend with the king

http://pastebin.com/2STedMGR

You are Hugo of Ramla, and you are staring down two dozen knights across a flat, dry field.

The sun is up and it hot, backing you in your gambeson and maille. You correct your helm, the nasal bar only a little bit of an obscurance to your vision. You check the straps of your long heater shield. You check your sword grip on the fine blade your brother had lent you, check your feet in the stirrups of an unfamiliar horse.

You were nervous as hell, hot butterflies battering in the cage that was your guts. You'd been in combat before, but this was different. This had an audience. You licked sweat from your lips and looked over to the stands. You couldn't make out much. There was quite a crowd gathered. You could see Lord Gerard and your brother in the highest part of the stand, watching intently. Your eyes drifted down to the box beneath them. Your friends, and Sabeen.

She wasn't watching, her attention seemed else where. The churning in your gut became worse.

You looked back across the field. Sir Joyce had eyes for you. Let him come, you thought, and jostled your horse to stand beside Sir Rodrigo. You had no especial love for the Iberian. Least of all for his flirtatious manner with Sabeen, but he was your captain in this, and the fighting would be fiercest around him.

It was your desire to be in the heart of the fighting today.

Other knights and men-at-arms crowded around you. Most were Spaniards and the like, companions of Sir Rodrigo. The foreigner had only a few local supporters, his lack of friends obvious enough in him allowing a squire to take up arms at his side. Still, it was a tough company, many were veterans of the Holy Orders of the Spanish wars. The fiercest, bloodiest fighting in Europe.

You shared a bloody mindedness with them.

Joyce glared at you and you glared back, but did not let the fire burn through you completely.

You would be cold hard steel today, and strike only with purpose

> roll 1d100, best of three

Rolled 90 (1d100)

>>37989186
RULES OF NATURE!

>>37989204
Can't top this roll, we're good.

Rolled 28 (1d100)

>>37989186

>>37989204
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jTQIogLBFBs

>>37989204
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jTQIogLBFBs

Rolled 42 (1d100)

>>37989186

Rolled 42 (1d100)

>>37989204

File: chivalry.gif (118 KB, 490x375)

118 KB GIF

>>37989204
God is with us.

>>37989216
>>37989219
Lets go one step further.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CevzIXAtX2g

>>37989204
We fucked his sister and now we are gonna fuck Sir Joyce

>>37989204

"I am the cold steel, I am the just sword. With my brother's blade in hand I shall reap the sins of the world and cleanse them through the light of Christendom."

"I AM HUGO VON KOBLENTZ, AND I AM A WARRIOR!"

>>37989298
2chuu4me9chan

>>37989298
That was cheesy

>>37989298
Relax on the chinese cartoons mate.

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>>37989204
Hugo's face when.

>>37989298
>Not this

“I am the Bone of my Sword
Steel is my Body and Fire is my Blood.
I have created over a Thousand Blades,
Unknown to Death,
Nor known to Life.
Have withstood Pain to create many Weapons
Yet those Hands will never hold Anything.
So, as I Pray--
Unlimited Crit Works”

>>37989320
Full service Mass conducted in Latin has more cheese, especially when you can understand exactly what the presiding bishop is mangling.

>>37989359
Hugo has never made a sword.

>>37989387
I meant to edit crit in there

>>37989298
Can we do it in our head at most?

Sorry had a phone call, writing.

>>37989204
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iPfheCHDoco

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>>37989298
>>37989359
>>37989403

The banners dropped. Spurs found flanks and your horse leapt into a gallop. You were shoulder to shoulder with Sir Rodrigo on one side, some red-headed Iberian on the other, sword extended and shouting a challenge. A roar, near deafening, came up from the watching crowd as peasant folk cried out in the guttural shouting of a spectator's excitement. The world before you rocked with the gallop of your horse, te two dozen knights trampling toward you. Dust was thick in the air, the sun still hot, but you felt none of it.

Your eyes were wide, your sinew stiffened, your blood was up and your brow lowered upon your eyes, teeth set in a snarl. You felt in all ways a warrior on the true field. A son of Mars heading for the clash. And you slammed into each other, two score knights all bashed together, steel and horse flesh, your flank next to Rodrigo, your shield up and sword flashing outward.

The Damascus steel delivered terrible blows, sending chips flying from raised shields. You took a blow to your own and pushed it off, answering it with a cut 'round the head of your nearest opponent, fat Sir Froggy, that cut a line in the steel that kept. He backed away pale, letting others fill the gap. In the heart of that you laughed, and struck with shield as oft as sword, driving back opponents, your best defense an attack. The roar of the crowd became a drum beat, matching the pounding of your heart.

You reared your horse up, startling your opponent back, hoof switching out to cut a gouge in the other's mount. It buckled, fell, dropping its rider, the horse giving hard panicked bleats as the other horses pressed in. Sir Joyce came over that horse on his own, not caring that he near trampled his fellow to get at you. His sword cut out and you checked it with your own.

"You and I!" he said, pointing toward you.

Some men had came unhorsed, from your team, and had formed a ring of shields against the battering of their horse mounted opponents. Their shield wall would not stand long. They buckled under the assault, barely able to do more than stand, unable to find the reach needed to bridge that gap.

Others of Sir Joyce's team were quitting the field with injury, Sir Rodrigo looking triumphant as he rode against a Frankish pair. Still, the odds were fair balanced. Particularly with so many of yours unhorsed.

> answer the challenge
> ignore it, help the unhorsed

>>37989547
> ignore it, help the unhorsed

Victory and comrades in arms are more important than fleeting glory and personal vendettas

>>37989547
>> answer the challenge

Time to hit anigger

>>37989547
> ignore it, help the unhorsed

>>37989547
>> answer the challenge

>>37989547
> ignore it, help the unhorsed

We have some discipline unlike a certain templar

>>37989547
> ignore it, help the unhorsed

>>37989547
>> answer the challenge

Payback for the insults Joyce gave us. Sure, we bedded his imouto but Joyce needs to get it through his thick skull that Hugo is the younger brother of the Lion of Koblentz-- who may as well be the Black Wolf of Koblentz at the rate he's racking up kills, victories, and battlefield commendations.

>>37989547
> answer the challenge

>>37989547
> Ignore it, help the unhorsed
Keep our eyes up for the Templar starting shit.

>>37989547
>> ignore it, help the unhorsed

>>37989581
>>37989580
>>37989573
>>37989554

>wanting to risk your comrades in arms and victory due to personal issues

>>37989531
>> answer the challenge
Had this been real, we would help those guys.

But this is for fun. So kick his ass.

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>>37989547
why do people not want to hit Joyce?

> answer the challenge

>>37989547
>> ignore it, help the unhorsed
>>37989595
its a chance to look good

>>37989547
> ignore it, help the unhorsed

>>37989590
not wanting to kick your Brother in laws ass because he's an overconfident faggot
> answer the challenge

>>37989547
> answer the challenge
This is a sport. Besides, if we don't prove ourselves now, when else will we get to?

>>37989590
Hugo is a ball of personal issues, anon.

PTSD, onset of adolescence, rejected in romance-- Hugo is a godforsaken wreck and needs to channel at that rage and fury somewhere.

... shit, Hugo is basically Thorfinn.

>>37989547
>answer the challenge

>>37989547
> ignore it, help the unhorsed

What brother would had done

>>37989618
I dont think you know how serious business tournies are and we can prove ourselves by rescuing our comrades

>>37989653
Our brother isn't fighting in a duel!

>>37989547
>> answer the challenge

>>37989672
fuck you he is

>>37989682
Guys, if we lose because we didnt save our guys what about the money we betted ?

>>37989692
eh they'll be more

>>37989692
We're not privy to that information, stop metagaming.

But, yeah.

>>37989669
We also need to prove ourself to out soon to be brother in law. Plus we could go on ahead and win that bet for Wilhelm.

>>37989547
> ignore it, help the unhorsed

>>37989547
>ignore it, help the unhorsed
Gotta win for money!

>>37989547
>answer the challenge

>>37989547
> answer the challenge

>>37989707
We could prove that by being responsible and beating him in the fight rather than the duel
>>37989547
> ignore it, help the unhorsed

Alright guys its past 10 minutes and now you are going over the IP count. Stop voting.

Rolled 1 (1d2)

Going to roll for it since the vote is pretty close

1 is help the dismounted

2 is answer the challenge.

>>37989734
Sorry, I voted four times because I was ultimately undecided.

Rolled 27 (1d100)

>>37989760

>>37989765
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yMr5UI-aacc

Rolled 29 (1d100)

>>37989760

>>37989765
>>37989779
Why are you two rolling?

>>37989781
Fuck... i thought he did the "whoever rolls highest get picked" i need some goddamn coffee

>>37989795
You didn't even pick anything!

You looked from Joyce to the shield wall and felt a tearing in your heart. You wished for nothing more than to ride down Sir Joyce and answer his insults with iron, but the greater picture loomed large, your comrades imperiled. You turned your horse, it gave a whicker as you brought it around, and charged the men that circled your unhorsed companions like so any vultures upon a dying calf. A whooping cry caught their attention, and your lashing sword caused their response. Four men broke off to come upon you, swords pointed. You crashed into them, again taking it on the offensive, sword and shield both a weapon, desperate to keep blows from landing, though some still bit against your maille shirt, and cut ribbons from your tabard.

A blow around your head from the rim of a shield near unhorsed you, but you bit your cheek and shouldered forward, answering it with a hard cross from your own, rim smashing into jaw sending the man tumbling from his saddle spitting out broken teeth. You lashed across the horses neck to catch another, but you were growing overwhelmed when an arm grabbed you. A knight in Sidon colours was trying to pull you from the saddle, grabbing you at the cuff of the neck, trying to use his greater weight to rip you off your horse.

You spun like a struck cat, pommel batting into the side of his helm. The man wobbled, began to slide forward. A second hard thump of your pommel had him laid on the neck of his horse unconscious.

The men on foot were coming back, some managing to get empty horses in hand and mount up.

"Leon!" Rodrigo called from the other side of the field, "Leon!"

He came charging toward Sir Joyce and they clashed in a spectacular batter, swords crossing as they circled each other on hot footed horses. The crowd was well and truly wild for the battle. You turned to match your next opponent, now flanked either side by companions.

>>37989760
Heres hoping Hugo will also get some LDR for this

The field was clearing, and your team was looking the victor. Men staggered toward the barricade, or were carried from the field by retainers. It was no casual thing a tourney, but you were glad to see it was more of theirs than yours that was limping away. Still, when you looked back and saw Sir Joyce rally two of his remaining knights around him, beating down on Sir Rodrigo, you saw a chance to seal victory.

You directed with your sword to the desperate fight your captain was putting up, and the men understood without needing spoken orders. Together the four of you charged towards that fray.

> roll 1d100, average of three

Rolled 97 (1d100)

>>37989897

Rolled 99 (1d100)

>>37989897

Rolled 99 (1d100)

>>37989897

Rolled 67 (1d100)

>>37989897

Rolled 100 (1d100)

>>37989908
>>37989901
LOL

File: the-dude-dancing.gif (500 KB, 500x257)

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>>37989901
>>37989908
>>37989913
DEAR GOD!

>>37989913
>>37989908
>>37989901
HUGO HUGO HUGO HUGO!!!

>>37989901
>>37989908
>>37989913
WHAT THE FUCK JUST HAPPENED!?

>>37989919
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH

>>37989919
IT KEEPS HAPPENING

Well...that's certainly something.

>>37989913
>>37989908
>>37989901
HUH, THAT"S A THING ISN'T IT?

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>>37989897
>>37989901
>>37989908
>>37989913
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2I84Bd7EHd8

We are gonna fuck Sir Joyce like we fucked his sister!

short and messy

>>37989901
>>37989908
>>37989913
>>37989919
DEUS LO VULT

>>37989927
>WHAT THE FUCK JUST HAPPENED!?
Hugo just Exalted.

Obiviously god saw what a good christian Hugo was saving his lost comrades and rewarded him for it

>>37989901
>>37989908
>>37989913
>>37989919

ZA WARUDO!

>>37989957
Hugo is going to become a damn legend

We have to buy Hugo something nice with the money we are going to win.

Maybe some Fine Clothes like Wilhelm has ?

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Never forget, Crusader Quest. The day Hugo joined Solobro as Asskicker Extraordinaire.

>>37989984
I'd be surprised if Hugo actually gave a shit about his clothes

>>37989984
a halberd? or a spear?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5p5OyLFQLCc

>>37989984
Well, he's earned the sword. He also won us a feast.

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>>37989990
Sooooon.

>>37989998
But he has to look his best when the girls throws themselves at him

>>37990004
I think he earned a knighthood>>37990006

>>37990006
Wilhelm's more similar to Lu Bu than Hugo. Hugo is his Zhang Liao.

>>37990009
He is too young Anon, he needs to be around 15-16

>>37990017
Even better Zhang Liao is one my favorite generals from that period.

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>>37990006
>meanwhile in china

>>37989950
>Hugo just Exalted.
Dawn Caste?

Then what does that make Wilhelm?

>>37989933
98.33 on an average of three. Incredible.

>>37990046
Zenith or Eclipse. Probably Eclipse with Performance and Presence favored.

>>37989913
>>37989908
>>37989901
really cool, I play music
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kqCSCZe3j0Y

>>37990052
we haven't seen a happening like this ever, hell not even Fulk's disposal was this high

>>37990068
Speaking of Fulk

Hugo got one more story to tell him and Prince Baldwin next time he visit Jerusalem

>>37989933
Is Joyce going to explode?

>>37990073
I think we won't be the ones telling it.

>>37990076
>>37990076
we Fist of the north star now

So, we just have to have Hugo angst about his girl problems before we fight the Saracen.

See Sabeen! This is what you could have

>>37990125
Sorta like how putting Ender Wiggin under a lot of pressure ended up with a diamond.

>>37990178
Hey, don't say what we're all thinking. We still gotta smooth things over with her.

You raised your sword, a banner to rally, and your four riders became ten as if sprung from the earth. All about you the remaining men gathered, forming a galloping van of furious knights, swords brandished and high in the saddle.

The crowd roared for you.

You gestured with sword blade, and the men came forward with the speed of devils.

The crowd roared again, wrestling at the barricade as if they meant to pull it down and join you on the field.

Each man had his own battlecry, favours whipping around their necks or forearms, shouted in different tongues. The names of cities, houses, kingdoms, women folk. You found your own as you galloped, pressed on the neck of your horse, sword a living thing in your hand.

"Koblenz!" you roared from a dry, parched throat, "Ramla!" you called, and then, wildly, "Sabeen!"

Sir Joyce and his men looked up from their battering of Rodrigo. They had near unhorsed him, he was slipping from his saddle. When they saw your approach their eyes widened, and all but Sir Joyce began to flee, their horses scrambling to turn, their tabard flapping wildly about them as dust was born up from clattering hooves. But it was too late for flight.

You were among them, or perhaps it is more correct to say they were lost among you, each man struggling with two or more. A wild dervish of panicked fighting until they were ripped from their saddles and dumped fully into the dirt, forced to yield at sword point. You came up next to collapsing Sir Rodrigo, caught him by the collar before he could slip the saddle, pushing him back up, then pushing him on to refight Sir Joyce. The two of you came at him and he put up a frantic struggle, lashing out in every direction, until a hand grabbed him by the shoulder, another by the arm, until he was alone of all his company and grappled by near a dozen men and wrenched from his saddle. e came tumbling off his horse, sword lost to him, hitting the dirt with a hard grunt.

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>>37990185

He came up to his knees, blood pouring from his nose, to find Sir Rodrigo's sword levelled at him.

"Do you yield my friend?" the Spaniard asked through a raw throat.

Joyce scowled, but then he mustered a good natured smile. "The day is yours!" he said, throwing up his hands.

"Ours," Rodrigo corrected, turning to you in the saddle. He held up your hand in his, high.

The crowd roared. You looked to the stands. Everyone was on their feet. Lord Gerard, your brother, the foreigners and Levantines both, whistling and applauding the victory. As wild as the common folk.

But you were looking for one person. Sabeen stood waving, crying out your name and clapping, jumping for you. Pulling an arm around Sir Etienne in her exuberance and pulling him into a fierce hug, then doing the same to young Maggie but giving her a hard kiss on the cheek before whooping in her ear.

She did not stay in her booth, few did. She leaped over the battlements, as did Jacques, and Maggie. As did Sir Etienne and the tough men-at-arms who you'd fought beside these past months. Your companions couldn't be stopped, they kicked up a dust of their own. Rodrigo was laughing when they came upon you, and you didn't resist as they pulled you from the saddle. Soldiers pulling you into fierce hugs, kissing your head. Maggie took you fully, kissed you hard, the slip of tongue that you answered by instinct, until Jacques pulled you away knuckling your hair down and calling you a lucky whoreson in French.

You laughed, backing away only to be hugged from behind, arms wrapped around your neck, pulling you against her chest. You looked up to Sabeen and she grinned. You grinned back up, heart pounding. She looked like she might say something, your ears perked to hear it as her lips parted and sliver of tongue poked out, until again you were pulled away. You fought the grabbing hands a little but there was no victory here.

>>37990185
>"Koblenz!" you roared from a dry, parched throat, "Ramla!" you called, and then, wildly, "Sabeen!"
>and then, wildly, "Sabeen!

Fuck. Hope Elaine didnt hear that

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>>37990185

This time it was Joyce.

"Aye, you aren't such a bad sort," he said, "I misjudged you lad, that was some fine fighting." And he hugged you, patting you on the back. Then he laughed, taking up his fallen sword and patting the dust from his tabard. "I salute you," he said, pulling off his helm, lowering his coif, and shaking out his shaggy hair. They all did. The knights assembled drew off their helms, tipped them to you. Rodrigo went so far as to take a knee.

The men-at-arms took you up on their shoulders, each promising you a drink, a girl, whatever you wished, carrying you towards your waiting, cheering brother. They carried you from the field and you took one look back, to see Sabeen watching you be carried away, standing uncertain in the dusty, blood stained field.
-
> switch back to Wilhelm?

>>37990219
>> switch back to Wilhelm?

YES!

>>37990219
>> switch back to Wilhelm?

Yes. Hugo did us proud

>>37990219
Yes
Also that was great, thanks HF.

>>37990219
>REP:++++

>>37990219
Yeah switch to wilhelm

>>37990219
>"Aye, you aren't such a bad sort," he said, "I misjudged you lad, that was some fine fighting."
"Wait, you can fight like that??? By all means, fuck my sister."

>>37990251
It was more Joyce thinking Hugo was a coward

Hugo is God's Sword, and Wilhelm His voice.

Why is the Koblenz family so blessed?

>>37990301
because dem Koblenz man

HUGO, HUGO, HUGO, HUGO, HUGO, HUGO, HUGO!

Is this what you were expecting after coming back, HF? Because this... This is fucking glorious.

Tied with Wilhelm's speech as my favourite parts.

Time to pay up little bard

>>37988816
>It seemed a safe bet.

And that it was

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To celebrate this rousing return from hiatus and Hugo going full beast mode have a scribble my friends. Please pardon any inaccuracies.

You are Wilhelm of Ramla, and you take your brother into a fierce hug, kissing him on the cheek. He had been brilliant on the field. He blushed through his grin as you held him in your arms, pushing you off, every bit the embarrassed but happy boy.

"That was amazing," you said.

"Astonishing," Chihirizahd insisted, giving a pump of her fist.

"Spectacular," Marcabru said, sore at the lost purse, but still charmed by the day's events.

"Worthy of a knighthood, had it been a real battle," Lord Gerard spoke this, looming into your conversation, "You must be at my table tonight young man."

Hugo just nodded as you pulled him away. Girls were lining up to visit the battered warriors of the melee, but most had eyes for the squire you accompanied. Hugo puffed out his chest a tad for all the feminine attention he was getting. If it was his nature, the next few days would be a banquet of willing girls for the boy. Certainly you wouldn't be able to resist such pull. If it had been you, you would have found the first pretty girl and the loneliest nook on offering and be at it.

But that aspect you didn't seem to share with your brother. He gave you back your sword, quietly happy with the praise he was receiving already, more eager for the salutes from the men-at-arms and knights than for every girl that batted an eye in his direction (though he was still Koblenz enough to appreciate that as well)

Of the other competitors you saw Sir Froggy with his wife, nursing a broken arm. There had been many shattered bones this day, but luckily none had died. At least none yet. It kept the mood high, and even Froggy was smiling through injury and defeat.

By the time you returned to the city proper you did so in a parading, celebratory throng of common folk and nobles. It was a good beginning to the feast day, with a feast for the night and another on the morrow. No one you could see was in bad spirits.

When all the nobles wound their way back through the city to the sea-fort (all the way encouraged by cheering common folk) you were quite prepared for any further celebrations that might be on offer, in fact you hummed with the need to continue such celebrations. Until then, you were happy to keep company with your brother, who led you through an animated, first hand account of his tourney experience. Chihirizahd in your lap and listening intently to his every word, wide-eyed and excited, though she had witnessed it already. You smiled, nodding at every thrust and phantom block he made.

A few men soon arrived to give you invitations.

> Lady Lucca would like to congratulate your brother, and requests you join him
> the Count of Foix requests you pay him a visit
> Stylianos Doukas would also be happy to receive you

>>37990429
Are these choices? Christ I don't really remember these people very well. Someone more in the know choose.

>>37990400
Cheers!

>>37990438
Lady Lucca is the Genoan representative. Runs the whore house. The Count of Foix is both patron of Marcabru and Sir Rodrigo. Stylianos is the Greek reverse-trap.

>>37990429
> Stylianos Doukas would also be happy to receive you

>>37990446
wasnt Foix a sympathizer of a certain prince?

>>37990438
Lady Lucca is our contact with the Italian City of Geona. She has promised us the city's support however we did leave her on a bit of a sour note when we chose a different woman than her to bed.

Count of Foix is a French lord. Quite wealthy and powerful

Stylainos Doukas is a Doukas (pretty much royalty) who is seeking help to defend her lands from a thieving uncle

>>37990429
> Stylianos Doukas would also be happy to receive you

Though I'm interested in Foix as well I can't pass up them greeks.

>>37990446
Genoa...
Sorry just had flashbacks to a CK2 game where they were a bitch to stamp out being a trade republic and all.

Getting to know the Greeks a little more wouldn't hurt.
> Stylianos Doukas would also be happy to receive you

>>37990429
> Lady Lucca would like to congratulate your brother, and requests you join him

>>37990400
Nice!

>>37990429
>Stylianos Doukas would also be happy to receive you
I can't imagine much short-term gain for this though. Whatever, she's our friend.

>>37990400
Its pretty awesome. A bit too angry for Hugo, should try make him look more determined rather than angry.

But i really like the horse and the helmet you made

>>37990429
>> Stylianos Doukas would also be happy to receive you

Its a good idea to make friends within the Empire if we are having European friends travling to our help. Since i doubt we will get enough ships to sail them to Jerusalem

>>37990478
Indeed, going to the Genoans would be good for our siege, and not going to them could sour their mood. Feasting with the Count of Foix could also improve our relations with those in Fulk's camp, and we need a lot of support if we hope to make the land peaceful and unified.

>>37990492
>Wanting to get mixed up in Greek politics

mate that's asking for trouble

>>37990500
we already have the genoans on side for ascalon.

>>37990500
Ooh, I don't know what to do. Going to Stylianos Doukas could place the public eye on "him." Is that a good thing?

Goddamn it! All of these people are valued to visit

>>37990529
Right?

>>37990429
Actually going to see count Foix should probably take the priority thinking on it. It's a good opportunity to improve our position.

Changing >>37990464 to
> the Count of Foix requests you pay him a visit

>>37990518
>>37990518
I suppose for them its a godsend but prehaps not for us if we wish to get their support for ascalon & Koblenzing, right now we need them more then they need us so we should hold off so we can ''help'' them

>>37990429
>> the Count of Foix requests you pay him a visit

we already have Genoa invested & the greeks need publicity for their support which we could give them for a cost...

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9 KB JPG

>>37990429
> Lady Lucca would like to congratulate your brother, and requests you join him
>Lady Lucca
>join him

>>37990429
>> the Count of Foix requests you pay him a visit

changing my vote from >>37990492

to COunt Foix

>>37990557
Meaning, join your brother for the visit.

>>37990429
>> Stylianos Doukas would also be happy to receive you
Finally! Been waiting for a chance to figure her out.

>>37990429

Changing >>37990476 to
>the Count of Foix requests you pay him a visit

>>37990483
Thanks, Hugo always seemed a bit angry to me though maybe not as angry as all that. I'll keep that in mind for the next time.

>>37990429
Changing >>37990478 to
> the Count of Foix requests you pay him a visit

>>37990429
> the Count of Foix requests you pay him a visit

Going to make a cup of tea. back soon.

Hmmm, friendship, or love? Future opportunity, or present gain?

>>37990594
I think Wilhelm has got the former squared away. The latter on the other hand is always that tough call.

>>37990594
I don't think that Slylianos will be leaving just yet, so we can hopefully talk to her tomorrow, same with Lady Luca.

>>37990617
Have a lot of people to talk to tomorrow.

Sir Rodrigo.
Doukas.
Sir Joyce
Sir Froggy

>>37990594
we don't want them to gather support until we have asserted our influence on them

Can someone remind me of Doukas? I'm assuming that since I can't recall her, Wilhelm hasn't fucked her yet.

>>37990742
We meet on the ship on the way to Sidon. Told us she was trying to gather support to stop her uncle from stealing her "cousins" land

You nod to the envoy sent from the Count of Foix. "We would be happy to make his company for the evening."

The Frenchman nodded, but with pursed lips. "My Lord would also like it if you brought your man, Sir Etienne of Gascony, if you are able," he said. The envoys left, the two rejected looking very disappointed in your decision. It was odd that the Count of Foix wished to see Etienne. You had not heard of them being acquainted. But you supposed Gascony was not so far from Foix that they should be assumed alien to one another. Still, something worth exploring.

He is present shortly, having seen to the billeting of your men.

"Roger wishes to see me?" he clucked his tongue, eyes reflective, "Well, why not? Perhaps he wishes to make amends." You did not push it right away, as the man was off to change into more courtly raiment almost immediately, but it did build your curiosity.

Hugo went off to change from his tattered and dirty clothes into something more presentable as well.

It was an afternoon meal before the banquet, in the Count's private quarters set for him by Lord Gerard. He had brought a small army of servants with him. You noticed many were pretty women. Foix lay close to Spain, so many were dark girls contrasting beside the pale Frank. You had to admire his taste in decoration if not in diligent, they did not keep a clean house, and must have been kept for something other than their talents as housekeepers.

Count Foix sat with Sir Rodrigo and Marcabru. Marcabru had been with the Count of Toulouse on his arrival in the Holy Land. Perhaps he switched to Foix's service on a-spying the household staff. Whatever his reasons he lounged in a window, strumming his lute, his attention on the passing of sea birds on the skies outside. The Count himself sat in a near throne like wooden chair, considerable weight pressing against the frame.

He was notoriously greedy, this Roger of Foix, and word has it he quarreled with the Church, having taken possession of some land of theirs, though you knew little of that. When you entered he grinned, and chuckled at the sight of Chihirizahd beside you.

"Like me, he surrounds himself with pretty creatures," Foix remarked to Rodrigo, who sat beside him in a changed tabard, nose puffed up but no longer bleeding, "You can judge a man by his taste in companions," the bulbous lord said with great sagacity. Then he flicked a finger in your direction. "All men have our appetite for flesh, the difference is other men cannot satisfy it. It is why only the ugly priests keep their vows of celibacy."

Your ears burned a little at such crude suggestions, but you did not speak.

"Your boy there," he nodded to Hugo, "Will have a litter of bastards before the year is out." That had Hugo's face grow pale, and a clench enter his jaw. You put a hand to his shoulder.

"My thanks for your invitation m'lord," you said, taking a seat.

"I had to meet such a remarkable pair. The young stranger that dethroned a king, the boy that won a melee. Very remarkable," he said, almost purred, the words, "You know Fulk is a distant cousin of mine?"

You had not, though you'd heard he and the Count of Toulouse had come to press Fulk's claim on the behalf of the king of France. Even now Toulose had ridden on to Jerusalem itself to speak with Melisende directly.

"Relations span far and distant, my uncle was once fond of boasting you could trace a line of ours back to Charlemagne," you replied. The Count nodded, pinching the fat at his neck to keep it from overly jiggling. The man wore velvet, and jewelled rings on his left hand only.

"I wondered, if a young man of no special place could come here, dethrone a king and make himself a lord, what special gifts does he have?" Foix asked the air itself, "They say a silver tongue, and a golden cock. Which Princess have you seduced? Most say Hodierna. Elias of Maine says she is quite the lioness. Worth the trip for her alone."

Again your ears burned. Chihirizahd shifted uncomfortably beside you and Hugo looked like he might spit.

Rodrigo took a hard swallow, eyes shifting away from you as he squirmed in his chair, put off by his patron's words.

> I haven't seduced any Princesses
> Who can keep track of this lady and that princess?