>>48575109
>> play as Wilhelm

>>48575109
> play as Hugo

>>48575109
Great to see you again HF.

>>48575109
>> play as Mathilde

>>48575109
> play as Mathilde

>>48575109
>> play as Mathilde

>>48575109
> play as Wilhelm

Battle report and planning followed by shenanigans as Mathilde?

> play as Wilhelm

can we get the serious stuff done with first before Mathilde gets raped?

Rolled 1 (1d2)

I'm going to flip a coin.

1 is Mathilde
2 is Wilhelm

> play as Wilhelm

>Mathilde will never give Elias the most fucked up semi-yandere violent sexual experience of his life

why bother playing as mathilde?

>>48575633
For getting Hugo to not be a fuckup. Married properly, settled and shit.

http://pastebin.com/JEE8ZM7H

You are Mathilde, sister of Lord Wilhelm

And you await his return with your mistress, Queen Melisende. She sits upon a chair, watching the return of her men from the walls of Ascalon. You can tell how tense she is from the tightness of her neck, but its the only betrayal of her feelings, her face is a poised mask seemingly relaxed. You doubt others would note your lady's manner, you had grown used to the conversation of her body, the little ticks and gestures, that few others picked up.

As the banners of her lords came closer she shifted in her chair, a rustle of silk against thigh. She really was worried, and eager for news.

The banner of the Knights Templar and Knights Hospitaller led the procession, the lords of the holy orders marching beneath them in stained maille and tabards. The stink of battle carried with the procession, the iron smell of steel and blood, with the stench of sweat. Faces gleamed with exhaustion, helms removed and coifs pulled down to show matted hair in tangled clumps.

Raymond du Puy and Archamboud took a knee before the two of you (though you knew it was before your lady, you entertained a small fantasy it was to you they knelt), helms beside them, heads bowed.

"The wall remains untaken," du Puy said, "Though we pushed the Saracen hard, pushing further would have lost too many of our own men, it would be no kind of victory worth celebrating."

"I trust your judgement in this my lord," Melisende said, and the tired, black clad man rose to his feet, offering a hand to his aged, white clad counterpart. "Shall we call this a victory?" Melisende said.

"We should," Raymond said with a grin.

"And who shall be given special honour for this day?" she asked.

Raymond bowed his head. "Lord Ramla and his men proved their worth," he said, "And Count Foix mounted the north wall despite the odds against him. Both are worthy of your grace's favour."

>choosing the most boring pov possible
you guys are the worst. Hugo pov never.

>>48575719
>Hugo
>Married
>Settled down

its like you don't even Chivalry!

"Lord Ramla rarely disappoints," Melisende said it with a special kind of smile. More of the lords began to assemble behind the two grand masters, from the Lord of Sidon to the Prince of Galilee. Still, it wasn't to them she turned her gaze, but to you. "Whom should I show special favour this day, Mathilde?" she said, and you saw in her eyes this was one of Melisende's tests.

She enjoyed testing her handmaidens, and her attendants rose and fell in her esteem depending on their answers.

> Wilhelm
> Count Foix

>>48575744
b-but muh elias smut

>>48575762
> write-in

Fucked up, sorry.

>>48575762
> Count Foix

Best not to hoard the favor to one banner my lady

>>48575762
> Count Foix

Our brother would be able to handle not being chosen. Foix on the other hand might take it as a slight.

>>48575762
> write-in

whoever bleed the hardest for Jerusalem that wasn't Ramla

>>48575762
> Count Foix
He did pretty well on his own

>>48575762
> Wilhelm

>>48575762
>> Count Foix

"Count Foix should be rewarded, for a valiant effort," you said, "He has come far to help your cause, and warrants special praise when he excells beyond your own men. Would you not feel insulted if you fought hard for a foreign queen, only for her all her favour to fall on local favourites?"

Melisende's fingers drummed the arm of her chair,, a sly little smile playing across her face. "Well read," she said, "Send for the Count of Foix so that I may honour him."

A man-at-arms thumped his chest and started down to the assembled lords. Count Roger of Foix was a fat man to begin with, but in his maille shirt he seemed all the bigger, like an armoured ball, and his face was bright red and sweating as he manned the slope on the arm of his pet Iberian, Sir Rodrigo.

Count Foix took a knee and quite ungenerously you wondered if he would be able to stand up. You wondered how such a heavy man had managed to distinguish himself to begin with. But then you considered the broad shouldered, tall, dark curled man that supported him and thought, perhaps the honour should go to his dusky companion.

Melisende from her chair. She took a goblet from her attending table and filled it from a pitcher of wine. From a lead box beside it she pulled crushed ice, and mixed it into the wine, chilling it. Taking the goblet in both hands she walked to the kneeling heavy lord.

"Rise, sir," she said, and he struggled up with the aid of Rodrigo as a prop. She offered him her cup, and Count Foix took it with a slight bow, too tired for words, throwing back the cold wine. "You have my thanks this day, my lord," she gave him a deep curtsy.

Foix at last found his words, smacking his lips as he let out a last pant. "Nonsense," he said, "I did only my duty. If praise is required, praise my lad here." He clapped Rodrigo's arm. "Or that young buck Count Maine. Both fought like lions. Alas, a lion cannot take a city alone. If we had but two more men of their caliber upon the wall we'd have taken it."

"Indeed?" Melisende gave Rodrigo a look, and the dark, handsome Iberian bowed.

"My lord is too generous in his praise," Rodrigo squeezed his master's shoulder, "All in our company did our best, none more than any other." The Iberian was a humble man by nature, perhaps too humble. You thought humility a fine trait, except in excess, when it turned into its own form of pride.

"What say you Mathilde," Melisende once more looked to you, "Is Sir Rodrigo correct, or should further reward be given?"

> Sir Rodrigo is correct, withhold special praise
> Reward Rodrigo and Elias for distinguishing themselves
> write-in

>>48576116
> Reward Rodrigo and Elias for distinguishing themselves

>>48576116
> Reward Rodrigo and Elias for distinguishing themselves

We got two lions here and they both deserve credit.

>>48576116
> write-in
The company should be decorated then, maybe with a specialized banner or something. I don't know, it's still mostly peasant levies at this time, right?

>>48576116
>> Sir Rodrigo is correct, withhold special praise

eyes to Elias daring him to do more

>>48576116
>> Reward Rodrigo and Elias for distinguishing themselves

>>48576181

Damn, that's a really good middle ground, I am switching to this. Though I am not sure what it will entail

>>48576181
>I don't know, it's still mostly peasant levies at this time, right?
Not really. The common soldiers are professionally trained and employed men-at-arms retainers, not levied 'peasants' as such.

>>48576213
Just on the wiki now, looks like we're about 400 years too early to be giving out battle honors. Shame.

>>48576268

Romans were already giving battle honours on the legion standards.

>>48576287
Oh, well I'm pleased to be wrong. I'd like there to be some sort of specialized flag for this company to celebrate this victory later. Helps with tha martial brotherhood stuff.

>>48576268
Usually 'honours' are granted to communities or parts of a community like the women of Tortosa who were made the Order of the Hatchet for defending their town from an Islamic army, giving them special privileges in their home town.

>>48576287
Legions were organized very differently to a medieval army.

>>48576319

Well more than likely the Count would end up taking the honored banner home himself, though we might be able to give out a small order of a pin to be made by the camp followers later

Elias is a sociopath and anyone voted or votes for anything at all between him and Mathilde is a fool. He's playing us

>>48576700
>Implying Mathilde isn't a psychotic yandere who's into blood sport

>>48576700
But anon. He is such a charming, handsome rogue and we can change him!

"Sir Rodrigo is too humble," you said, "A warrior should be praised when he shows uncommon valour, so that others might learn from their example. I say gift Sir Rodrigo and Elias of Maine some reward or privilege, and others will fight more fiercely next battle to be similarly rewarded by your hand."

"A good point well made," Melisende said. She beckoned Rodrigo to step forward, and kissed him light upon the cheek, "You have my thanks Sir Rodrigo, and reward shall be given from mine own purse, and a blessing from the Patriarch of Jerusalem shall be arranged on our return."

To be blessed by the holiest man of Jerusalem in the Church of the Holy Sepulcher itself, it was reward enough to make Ridrigo glow. He stepped back with a tight bow.

"You honour me, my lady," he said.

"You honour yourself, by fighting so valiantly," Melisende replied, then raised a hand, "Bring forth my stepson, the Count of Maine."

Elias swaggered forth, his red hair gone dark from sweat, his pale cheeks flushed. He came to stand before the queen and bowed. "Mother," he said, which drew an irritated tick from Melisende's brow. Truly their difference in age was only by a handful. Then he bowed to you. "My lady," he said, with the slightest curl to his lips.

"Count Maine, you distinguished yourself on the wall this day," Melisende said. She seemed unhappy to be showing her husband's son this honour, but her dignity was strong. She took his chin by her fingers and kissed his cheek. "You too shall be rewarded from my purse, with blessings granted in Jerusalem on our return." His eyes moved to you and you could see that was not the reward he desired, but he kept his smile strong and bowed.

"You honour me mother, as you honour all of Jerusalem with your leadership, wisdom and courage." That drew a puzzled flush from Melisende.

"Yes," she said with a slight lowering of her brow, "You are one for words Elias, I've not forgotten that."

"My words turn only to sing your praises my lady," he said

Melisende returned to her seat, and something in her manner seemed troubled to you.

One by one the other lords came to receive her thanks, to kiss her ring and take her blessing. Your brother was one of the last, his lion helm tucked under his arm when he bowed.

"Come and find me later, Lord Ramla, I'd like to speak with you in private," she said, sending Wilhelm away.

It was past dark by the time her lords were dismissed back to camp, and you followed her into her tent.

As she undressed she spoke. "We must always be careful," she said, and you helped her with the laces of her dress. "The game never stops, even at war. The lords are constantly fighting each other for advantage even as they fight beside one another against the Saracen. Praise one and another might see it as a slight, praise too often and all praise loses its value. We must spend our charm like a Jew at market, with great care and prudence."

"Yes my lady," you said as she stepped naked from her dress. You fetched her a clean shift for sleeping, which she pulled on. She sighed, rubbing at her temples, eyes longing for her bed, but turning still to her writing desk.

"Get some rest Mathilde," she said, stroking your cheek, "You look as tired as I feel."

"My lady," you curtseyed and she dismissed you.

Outside you were met by One-Eyed Bayard, who reclined by a post. His one good eye opened for you, but he looked unhappy. "You've got callers," he said with a grimace that made him look strangely like a camel. "Those horny boys again, and your brother."

"Which brother?" you asked.

"The young one, the boy," he said. Hugo.

> see Elinard
> see Elias
> see Hugo
> send them all away, you were tired

>>48576761
> see Hugo
or
> see Elinard

>>48576761
> see Hugo
And then go the fuck to sleep

>>48576761
>> see Elinard

>>48576761
>> see Hugo

Should see all of them in turn.

>>48576761
>Elinard
>Hugo
>Elias

in that particular order

>>48576738
>"You honour me mother, as you honour all of Jerusalem with your leadership, wisdom and courage." That drew a puzzled flush from Melisende.
>"Yes," she said with a slight lowering of her brow, "You are one for words Elias, I've not forgotten that."
>"My words turn only to sing your praises my lady," he said

The potential pairing of elias and matty is starting to already show some promise.

>>48576861
Except she is already going to Elinard.

>>48576861
yeah problem is if Wil can get him to turn into Jerusalem's lapdog in the french courts though

>>48576861
2shill5me

>>48576936

We managed to get him to make an enemy he didn't want to make in the defence of Hugo. Love makes men do strange things so definitely possible.

>>48576964

Just pointing it out. Just the word that hes in the running for Matty's hand and hes acting like a proper dutiful son/lord for the Queen.

>>48577054
>love
>implying

It's his Dick c'mon anon

>>48577092
http://archive.4plebs.org/tg/thread/46210187/#q46218120

>>48577131
yes and?

"Send my brother," you said as you ducked into your own tent.

"Aye ma'am," Bayard replied as the tent flap closed behind you. Truth was you were tired, from the anxiety of watching the battle, from the stretched out hours of pacing. On your table sat a pitcher of your own wine (well watered however) and you poured yourself a cup. You wished for nothing so much as to get out of this tight dress and into your bed.

The tent flap pushed open and Hugo entered, and brought with him the stink of battle. His face was still licked upon the side with blood, and his blond hair was matted to his head. His blue eyes hung heavy until they saw you, and a smile took some of the strain from his face. He'd taken off his bloody tabard before entering, but now just wore naked maille, the metal links clinking around his frame.

"Do you bring a bloody axe into every maids tent?" you asked, pointing to the long handled axe he carried.

"Sorry," he said, propping it against the tent pole. You poured him a cup of wine, passed it to him.

"What brings you to my tent this evening?" you asked, "I had thought you'd have the freedom to plunder every maid from here to Gaza after this battle."

He took a seat without asking, dumped the cup back into his mouth. He wiped the win from his lips. "Good to see you too Matty," he said, leaning forward.

You sat upon the side of your bed, nursing your own cup. "Honestly, what brings you here? Don't you have dutes to attend to?" you asked.

"I wanted some advice," he said, and you saw a blush upon his neck, "A woman's advice, on matters of the heart."

You sat forward trying not to 'ooh' in a teasing sound, instead stifling a smile. "Matters of the heart? Has some girl bewitched my little brother?" you asked.

It spoke to his agony that he let your jibe pass. "Bewitched?" he laughed, "Plundered. She's reached in and ripped the heart from my chest and wears it on a chain upon her own. I am not bewitched, sister, I'm enslaved." He had a look like joyful pain on his face.

"And you cannot talk to Wilhelm," you said.

"Brother doesn't approve, not entirely," he said, "He has plans for me, plans that aren't my own."

"Marriage and alliances," you said, "Our lives are not our own to give freely."

"Even though my blood is bastard," Hugo swirled the empty cup as if it might conjure forth an answer from its the bottom.

"And what do you want to ask me?" you said, "If it is alright for you to defy our brother and make off with this maiden as your wife? If you should set your own heart above the wishes of our lordly brother?"

He gave you a tired look. "Pretty much," he said, "But...it is not just that selfish. I do not want this just for myself. I love her, and can hold no other woman before her, can put no one else's honour before hers. If I follow my brother's wishes, how can I do that without disgracing her? She has my heart, Mathilde. No other woman can have it now. How can I take another as my wife, and not have that woman shamed in her own way?" And then his eyes turned dark, "And I will not keep a whore." He spoke the words with a personal venom, eyes distant, no doubt upon the back of your shared father.

Such stubborn pride you were well familiar with, you wondered if whatever you said he'd still go his own way.

> follow your heart
> do your duty
> write-in

>>48577362
>> write-in

I got nothing Hugo will never marry right?

>>48577362
>write in
Give Wilhelm some time, then talk to him. He brought Jerusalem and all her allies to war for love, i know he'll do what's right with you.

Also I'm voting firmly against letting Elias in to see her at all

>>48577362
>write-in
talk to brother, double team him with Little Sibling Puppy Dog Eyes.

no way he can resist.

>>48577362
You just want me to confirm your own bias. Go talk to brother.

>>48577362
>>48577427
This is true.

>>48577362
>>48577362
I think you already know what you want.

Oh and do ask her who this "mistress" of his is

>>48577362
> write-in

If you had done your're duty you would have left antioch without fuss and Constance would have been wed to Poiters, If you had done your duty you would have wed Elaine.

no one could truly stop you if you choose to follow your heart Hugo but for once consider what it would entail

it doesn't feel right deciding this while playing as Mathilde

>>48577474
I love the fact Matty doesn't know who She is, I bet she'd have a heart attack if she knew

>>48577514

Somehow I see Wil going weak in the face of a truely determined Hugo and letting go of his plans for Hugo.

Hes abit of a softie for family.

Well theres other ways we might be able to use Hugo.

>>48577362

Members of the Orders are not supposed to be married but is it common for them to have female companions?

>>48577415
I definitely do think we should talk to Wilhelm, he could definitkey come around. Ask him after the siege, he'll be so happy when he finally gets the right to Iocetta that he won't be able to say no

>>48577567
still Marriage to someone with no power or ties to their name is a goddamn crime to Wil's rising star

I mean the situation is a hella different to Iovetta since love and politics aren't tied to the hip here

>>48577633

Well if doesn't marry, we might be able to get him to join an Order proper.

>>48577633
Wil will have kids of his own soon, he can afford to let his brother be happy

>>48577652
Then he wont be able to be with sabeen

>>48577670
Hence asking HF about the female companion, technically not a wife thing.

>>48577668
Wil can't afford to waste the chance to build alliances and improve his family's standing

File: IMG_1729.png (473 KB, 637x964)

473 KB PNG

>>48577652
>not establishing one
>not 420 praising it
>not being Sword saint as fuck

>>48577668
not at the expense of politics, at least keep it on the cards

>>48577678
Celibacy mate.

>>48577714
>celibacy
>infuckingplying

you're either fucking a woman on the side, a sodomite or one of the rare 10% that actually tries to be celibate

"I think you've already decided what you want to do, now you are just looking for permission," you said, and the way Hugo's face fell told you that you had hit close to the mark. He rung his hands and clenched his jaw. "Your only real option is to talk with Wil, try to reason with him. Let him know just how strongly you feel. Our brother is ambitious, but he loves you."

He nodded. "You're right," he said, "I have to talk to Wil, there's no other way to go about this." He rose from his chair, not happy but at least resolved. He came over to you, drew you from the bed into a steel rimmed hug. It wasn't comfortable. "Thank you for the advice," he said, and then surprised you with a kiss on your cheek.

"Who is the maiden?" you asked as he pulled away, hands still on your shoulders.

A boyish smile broke his face and he looked every bit his fourteen years. "Sabeen," he said.

"Huh?" you gave a moron sound. You remembered the confession in the bath. You had thought she had been talking about Wilhelm when she had said she loved your brother. Hugo was...he was just a boy. Then you remembered the looks they'd shared in passing, Hugo and Sabeen. And her baptism, the way she'd gone to embrace Hugo first. The way they would fall upon one another when parted, even for short times, and the way her tough face would open in joyful expressions.

You felt an idiot for not seeing it earlier, and for assuming something far different.

"How long have you two been..." you asked, feeling dumb.

"Not long," he said, "That is, not long physically, but for a while." He touched his chest, his expression drawn in.

You kissed his cheek, bringing him back to the present. He gave you a wonderfully confused look.

"Go talk to Wil," you said, and nodded. He took his daneaxe as he left, and Bayard put his head back in once he was gone.

"Who next?" he asked.

> Elinard
> Elias
> Neither

>>48577757
>> Elinard

Protocol needs to be observed. For now.

>>48577362
>> do your duty
People cannot play if they don't work

>>48577708
>the Sun is literally the embodiment of all that is good under god

shit son I can dig it

>>48577757
> Elias

than Elinard gives us a way out of the lewds if we're expecting our other suitor

seriously he can wait to get the lewds until the city falls

>>48577757
>> Elinard

Ask Bayard to ask Elias to tarry a while longer.

>>48577757
> Elias
>wanting Elias lewds ever

Matty is pure!

>>48577757
> Elinard

It is healthy for Elias to wait.

>>48577757
>> Neither
git slept

>>48577757
>> Elias
promise him lewd at a later date (like an actual other day) but Insist on seeing our other suitor after him

>>48577757
>> Elinard

>>48577757
>> Elias

>>48577757
> Elias
>wanting lewd

fucking cancer

>>48577757
>> Elinard
fiancee will have to be seen first

>>48577757
>Elias

I'll be back in a sec.

Going off last count Elias has won.

>>48577757
> Elinard

>>48577757
>Elinard
Then bed.

"Send for the Count of Maine," the flush in your cheeks made Bayard scowl, "What, you do not trust me?"

"I do not trust him," he replied, "But I guess what I think doesn't matter." And he disappeared once more. Bayard was a loyal dog, he guarded you faithfully, but he was not your master to dictate who you could or could not receive as a guest. You dismissed scarred, scowling Bayard from your mind as Elias came through the flap of your tent.

Unlike your brother he had changed from his armour into a fine blue doublet with white hose, his red hair quickly washed and combed back from his handsome strong face, but he still carried the sweat-stained perfume of battle around his shoulders.

"My lady," he said, "I have come for that promised sip." His eyes were hungry upon your form, so blatant they scared you a little and excited you as much.

"So bold," you said in a disapproving tone.

"Boldness was needed to take the wall," he said, "If my allies had been bolder we would have held it."

"But you did not," you said.

He smiled. "I recalled your words, and did not want to leave you weeping for me," he said. He leaned upon the tent pole, a tiredness in his body even as his spirit pounded with life.

"My fiance awaits me," you said, "What do you think of that?"

Elias sat beside you on the bed and you shifted away, a warm prickling upon your skin.

"He can wait," he said, hand moving to your far shoulder, smoothing the silk beneath his fingers.

"That is..." his face moved to your neck, pushing back your hair to lips brushing the pale skin, "Elias, this is inappropriate." Your hand came to his chest to push him off, you felt the muscle beneath the cloth, the strong, steady heart beat. Your gentle push did little to move him away. "Elias, be sensible," you said through a thump in your chest.

"Damn sense," he said, breath hot on your neck as his lips formed a kiss that made you shiver, "The world is mad Mathilde, let us be a little mad with it."

> No
> Yes
> Write-in

>>48578280
>> No
If he doesn't stop call for Bayard.

>>48578280
>> Write-in
Make out with him.

>>48578280
>> No
>> Write-in
This would be more charming if he WASN'T such a pathetic dog about it

>>48578280
> No

He can have a kiss. A kiss is a sip.

>>48578280
> No

not yet at least

>>48578322
if that was the case he wouldn't have asked for one

>>48578280
>> Write-in
Kiss him but no more for now.

>>48578280
> Write-in
god gave us brains so we could make sense out of madness, without it we are little more than beasts

combine with >>48578321

>>48578280
Do tell him we are no harlot or whore. If he so wish to bed a woman he can find one in the camp.

why do I get a bad feeling about this?

>>48578280
>> No
>> Write-in
Kiss him

>>48578280
> No
> Write-in

call Bayard in but reassure him he will get what he wants with patience

"Elias," his mouth kissed your neck, his hand reached down from your shoulder and squeezed your breast, fingers massaging you through the silk, hardening you against his palm. Your eyes darted with panic to the tent flap as you felt an electric thrill through your hips. He was pushing you back onto the bed, his other hand pushing up your dress, showing the flesh of your calf, hand trailing up to the flesh of your thigh. "Elias, no."

His mouth found yours and his kiss was deep, pulling your tongue up with his, stealing your breath and for half-a-moment your protest, but as the palm of his hand strayed up the soft flesh of your thigh you found again your voice. You pulled your lips from his as his fingers began to trace a line toward that most sacred of feminine spots. "Stop," you said, pulling away into the bed, outrage replacing what other feelings he had roused. "I said no," your hand smacked the side of his face and his hand fell away. You pulled away from him further.

He looked at you with wide eyes, hand to the palm print you'd left upon his jaw.

"I am not your whore," you said, pulling your dress down, correcting the fabric at your shoulder, "If all you want is to slake your lust, take to the camps and find some harlot trading favour for coin."

He had the grace to hang his head in shame. More than that, it was writ with disgust and self-loathing.

"I'm sorry," he said, voice thick, "I...I am so very sorry." He rubbed his face. He looked back up, touching his cheek. "Thank you for stopping me," he said, "I do not know why I...I am sorry. There is no excuse for it," Was that all the words his wit could conjure? He looked more insecure and witless than your own betrothed.

"Will you say something stupid, like that my beauty moved you beyond reason?" you asked, eyeing him suspiciously.

He shook his head. "No, even if it were true it is no excuse," he looked at his hands with a disgusted smile, "Fear ruled my heart, my lady. Perhaps I thought I could forget fear by giving over to lust. Perhaps I thought you felt the same way, or mayhap fear blinded me." He looked you over, eyes heavy. "You are no whore, my lady, nor a harlot or a slut and even if you were it would still not be justified." He stood from the bed. "Forgive me if you can, but I will not blame you if you cannot." He started toward the tent flap, shame in every step of his body.

You sat up on the bed.

> wait...
> let him go
> write-in

>>48578717
>> let him go

>>48578717
>> wait...
Give him a good hug.

"Fear keeps you alive but do not be a slave to it, master your fear, master yourself. You will be alright."

>>48578717
> let him go

Give him a kiss and let him go.

>>48578717
>>48578758
>>48578767

these, then let him go.

>>48578717
> wait...
>>48578783
>>48578767
seconding these as a combined option

>>48578717
>> let him go
begone gains goblins

>>48578767
>>48578783
>>48578795
>>48578829
fampai pls

>>48578717
>>48578758
>>48578767
these

the fuck are these votes coming from?

>>48578964
from the twenty unique Ip's that have been registered in the thread?

"Elias," you scooted off the bed. He stopped at the tent flap, turned to face you. Your arms found the trunk of his body, and his arms were soon around your shoulders. "You are a good man when fear doesn't rule you, be that man."

He stroked the back of your head, your hair beneath his calloused palm.

"Mathilde," he said, and he tipped your chin up.

You went up to tip-toes to kiss him, and to aid you he pulled you from your feet. Your arms round his neck, you pulled your mouth to his, your lips parting, your hands strong in the curls at the nape of his neck. His lips answered yours gently, his tongue almost timid. Your legs held him round the hips and his hands held you by your backside. At last you pulled away and you slid from his grip, his hands sliding up your back until he released you entirely once you stepped away.

He looked dumb struck.

"Go," you said, and quickly kissed his chin, "Go. Master your fear, and be well."

"I'll see you again," he said with a little smile, giving an awkward bow before he departed.

Bayard's eye blazed with suspicion when his head came back in. From your mussed hair and flushed face to the crumpled bed sheets, but he didn't speak his mind on it.

"You want to see the boy?" he asked with a jerk of his thumb.

> see Elinard
> retire for bed

>>48579112
>> see Elinard

>>48579112

>>48579112
> see Elinard

Poor boy. May as well get it over with.

>>48579112
> see Elinard

>>48579112
Oh please Bayard. He was not nearly inside long enough for anything to have happened

>>48579112
>> see Elinard

>> other
REARRANGE CLOTHES AND RUN FINGERS THROUGH HAIR

You took a comb from your bedside table and brushed out your hair quickly. Then you pinched the shoulders of your dress, rearranging it with care. Only then did you turn back to Bayard.

"You may send for my betrothed," you said, taking a seat.

The boy came in looking red faced and blustery, an angry look upon his brow. His gaze swept over your chamber. He choked a word, but couldn't say it. He choked again. Then, he spat at it out. 'Elias'.

You sat up straight.

"I saw him c-come f-from y-your t-tent," he said, he was shaking, sweat running down his face, "Y-you y-you y-you are a..."

"What?" you asked, "What am I?"

He scrunched up his face, giving very much the image of an angry baby. "Whore," he said.

> slap him
> apologize
> write-in

>>48579313
> slap him

How dare he. We are to be his wife and he talks to us like that ?!

>>48579313
>> slap him

>>48579313
If he is so worried about Mattys chastity offer him to have a feel to check if her hymen is still there. Fucking dare him.

>>48579313
> slap him

File: Say shit get hit.gif (1.34 MB, 500x227)

1.34 MB GIF

>>48579313
> slap him

1. we aren't married yet
2.you are not my only suitor
3. step up your game son
4. that is NO way to speak to a lady especially your prospective wife
3.

>>48579408
We definitely shouldnt mention that hes not the only suitor.

And for the love of god. Tell him to straighten his back.

>inb4 a not even my father hit me

>>48579423
why the fuck not?

>>48579469
His father is dead,

>>48579488
Exactly

File: Mathilde Circa 1160.jpg (131 KB, 615x462)

131 KB JPG

God I love this quest

Your hand smacked him hard across his fleshy, baby-fat cheek.

"You dare speak to me in such a way?" you said, your rage spiking hard in your chest, your tongue lashing out,"Who are you to speak, when you barely have a tongue? You are not my husband, you are just a blubbery, gormless little b-boy."

He glared at you. Then, suddenly, his hand struck you across the face. Your legs buckled beneath you for the force of the blow and you collapsed against your chair. There was not just fat on those arms. Your face was numb, then throbbed, and you pressed a hand to your cheek. It had been a long time since last you'd been struck, and never so hard. You felt a taste of blood in your mouth.

He pointed down at you. "I name you whore!" he said through tears of outrage. "Y-you, who else have y-you fucked w-while y-you were promised to me? The Nubian, that guard o-outside, y-your brothers?" He grabbed you by the hair and yanked you before him. He was far stronger than you had assumed. "Slut," and he spat on your face, the spit running down your cheek.

Then his hand grabbed the front of your dress.

> reach for your knife
> call for Bayard
> write-in

>>48579567
> reach for your knife
> call for Bayard
> write-in

Knee groin NOW!

>>48579567
> reach for your knife

>>48579567

>> call for Bayard
>> write-in
HEAD BUTT

Ok child, this ends now.

>be a pseudo-slut towards Elias
>be a bitch towards Elinard
feMCs, feMCs have changed

>>48579602

He was the one that insulted us right from the start. Elias, at least, had the good grace to be ashamed of his conduct.

>>48579567
>> call for Bayard

File: colbert popcorn.gif (497 KB, 275x210)

497 KB GIF

Well the, I guess the engagement is off.

>>48579657
no shit

>Hugo: PTSD rage
>Wil: PTSD politically issued shitstorm
>Elias:???

and that's not even touching on what the queen will make of this

>>48579686
Can just imagine Wilhelm

>By god. Why can you two (siblings) not just shut up and marry the ones i want you to marry?!

>>48579686

For his own safety, he might need to be sent to a different part of the camp.

>>48579707

Wil at least, is open to Matty x Elias.

"Bayard!" you screamed as the material tore from your chest, groping back for the knife that was on the bedside table.

"How many cocks have passed these lips?" Elinard spat, groping at your mouth, his pants bulging as he did.

Your head came forward, forehead crunching against his hard crotch. He cried and his grip slackened enough you pulled away. The boy was bent near double.

You snatched the knife from your table and held it between you like a charm.

Your man came in with confusion, confusion that soon turned to rage. He grabbed the boy around the neck and wrestled him to the ground. You saw Elinard grope for the knife at his belt as Bayard's arms squeezed his neck, his face looking like a swollen pimple about to pop.

> roll 1d100, best of three

Rolled 30 (1d100)

>>48579707
more along the lines of

>Zooooooe!!!!

>>48579708
hell maybe even home considering how trigger happy Hugo is about rape

>>48579732
OH SHIT

>>48579732
!

>>48579626
pfft, the only difference is order of visits and how Elias gets all the tease votes because reasons

Rolled 60 (1d100)

>>48579732

>>48579732
Lit

Rolled 53 (1d100)

>>48579732

Rolled 69 (1d100)

>>48579732

>>48579758
Bayard will atleast not die.

For all of matty's flirting and teasing, shes still pure. She hasn't even had meat in her mouth.

>>48579795
wew

You know what would be the killer, mattie having her maidenhood checked.

This kid's rep won't survive.

File: 1405815788070.png (1.02 MB, 1019x881)

1.02 MB PNG

>>48579758
well no is at least dying today

>>48579795
Unlike some women

Bayard slapped the knife from Elinard's hand, pushing the weeping boy down with a knee to his back. You pulled the torn fabric of your dress up to hide your bare breasts.

"You fucking whore!" he shouted up at you, stutter lost, face red and eyes streaming, "I loved you!"

"Yes, yes, you really loved her," Bayard said, "You've been very expressive about it." His fist found the side of Elinard's face, more than once. He looked like he didn't want to stop, but the boy's crying turning to moans of pain reminded him this was the future Prince of Galilee.

Bayard stood, dragging the fat boy up with him. He dangled the crying boy above the ground.

"What do you want done with him?" Bayard asked, looking to you with rage still alive in his eyes. You looked at Elinard. The crude, clumsy, stuttering boy was still the heir to Galilee, no matter what outrage he had done to you.

Still, your heart grew venomous at the sight of him. How like an ugly baby he seemed, face bruised and bleeding, sobbing in Bayard's arms. Your heart filled with contempt.

> just send him away
> call for the queen
> call for your brother
> call for his guardian, William Bures
> write-in

>>48579887
Call for all three of them.

>>48579887
>> call for your brother

Let our brother settle this with his guardian. No need to involve the Queen.

>>48579887
I need an adult who will be able to handle this WELL

> call for the queen

>>48579887
>> call for his guardian, William Bures

>>48579887
> call for the queen
> call for your brother

>>48579887
>> call for the queen

calling Wil and Bures will just end in pointing the blame

>>48579887
I cannot fathom fucks. I cannot invest in Mathilde, and given the voter turnout, other people are the same.

End it all, set the tent on fire and walk into the desert searching for dragons.

>>48579887
>> call for your brother
>> call for his guardian, William Bures

>>48579945
>not being able to invest in best girl

>>48579887
> call for the queen

calling bures and Wil in right now will just get ugly

File: I came here to woof at you.jpg (28 KB, 640x480)

28 KB JPG

>>48579945

All these flavours. And you choose to be salty.

>>48579887
>> call for the queen

changing my vote because its going to turn into a he said/she said argument if men get involved

>>48579887
>>48579914

Changing to:
> call for the queen

This is going to end terribly and the queen is likely to call upon both of them anyways.

>>48579966
Yeah, I can no longer do it. Disillusioned would be the word. I would feel bad if there was anything left to feel.

>>48580015
k

>>48580015
I'm sure you'll recover your feelings one day anon. Until then we can only pray.

>>48580059
This quest was a good use of my insomnia before. I hope we can move on.

"We shall take this up with the queen," you said, and Bayard grinned as Elinard turned white.

The queen was fetched, and while she came Elinard retreated to the corner of your tent like a shame-faced child caught stealing sweets. You covered yourself with a spare shift.

When Bayard returned it was with the queen, dressed for bed.

"What is this?" she asked, looking from you to Elinard.

"My betrothed," you said, spitting the word, "He assaulted my person and tried to rape me."

"This is true, Elinard?" Melisende asked, turning her eyes to him. The boy's face scrunched up, he wouldn't talk. She walked over to the boy, checking his face, the bruises that were slow malforming his cheeks. She waved toward the tent flap. "Get out of here boy, and speak nothing of this."

You sat up in shock, and Elinard gawped, but did not let the invitation hang long before he was running away. You felt cold in your chest when Melisende turned back to you.

"You were wise to call me," she said, "This could have become uglier."

"What will be done with him?" you asked, grabbing at the front of your dress.

"Nothing," she said, "He is the heir to my constable, he is the next prince of Galilee. And all he did was slap you, correct?"

"He tore my dress," you replied with a hiss in your voice, "He would have raped me."

"A bit of torn fabric and a bruise is not worth the infighting that would follow," she said, "And he didn't rape you."

"If he had, would you have done something then or would you still let him go?" you threw the words like a slap, but it did not phase your mistress.

"You're tired, you need to rest," she said, "Be sure you have endured nothing special. Do you think my husband was especially gentle on my wedding night, or other nights past? Or the other men in this camp, are they all gentle with their lovers? Take your bruises when you must, and save your anger for when it can be useful." She touched at your bruised cheek, her expression gone softer now, "I will be here for you when you need me Matty, and I'll not let any harm you if it is within my power."

She drew away from you, moving to leave. She looked back a last time. "I mean it Matty, sleep," she said.

"Yes my lady," you said, drawing into your bed, hugging your knees. She gave you a smile as she disappeared under Bayard's arm.

You felt cold and betrayed, sitting alone in the bed, face still throbbing from Elinard's blow.

Bayard watched you carefully, standing awkward by the tent flap.

"Would you like me to..." he looked to the door.

> leave me alone
> stay
> write-in

>>48580262
>> leave me alone

>>48580262
>> stay

>>48580262
> leave me alone

Imnotawhore

>>48580262
Tell him to go rest

>>48580262
>> leave me alone
>> write-in
"I'll be fine Bayard. And thank you."

File: Lean back try not to cry (...).png (236 KB, 574x255)

236 KB PNG

>>48580262
> leave me alone

>>48580262
> stay

>>48580262
Stay

>>48580262
> leave me alone

Mathilde is gunna cry

>>48580387
She needs someone to have a cry with her one eyed bodyguard is as good as anyone else

>>48580262
> stay

>>48580262
>> stay

"Just...leave me be," you said, "I want to be alone."

"You're sure?" he looked to you with the concern of a brother, and you almost changed your mind but instead nodded. "I'll be outside," he said, carefully touching the hilt of his sword.

"Okay," you said around a bubble in your mouth. A sniff broke your nose and you dabbed at stupid tears with your wrists. He ducked out of your tent. The scrape of his chair on the dirt was audible.

You rolled onto your side, stuffing your hands to your face.

You lay in the dark feeling sick as you cried, your tears soon gone leaving only the feeling of sick. Was this all life held for you, to be passed off to men, who would freely abuse you, protected by their station? A cruel lot, you could understand the holy women and the whores in a way you had not before, to give up all earthly desire together or embrace it fully for hard coin.

"I am not a whore," you said into the dark, holding yourself as sleep came.
-
> switch to Hugo
> switch to Wilhelm

>>48580525
and be accused of slutting around again? better to call Chiri

>>48580558
> switch to Wilhelm

Time for that long overdue assault report

>>48580558
> switch to Wilhelm

>>48580558
>> switch to Wilhelm

>>48580558
> switch to Hugo
Hugo pov never

>>48580558
> switch to Hugo

>>48580558
Wilhelm

so is Wil going to have a heart attack if/when he hears about this?

Oh his heart will just freeze over and he considers how to kill the kid.

You are Wilhelm, Lord of Ramla

And after being dismissed by the queen, night falling around the camp, you walk back to your own quarters with Etienne by your side. Though the man still wore bloody maille already he had transformed in posture from warrior to armed assistant, his sword discarded for his squire Jacques to care for.

"Lord Gerard would like to meet with you," he said, "But you also have an invitation from Count Foix and William Bures. I suggest before you call on any of them you change and clean as best you can."

"Yes, of course, thank you Etienne," you said, drawing off your tabard and throwing it to Alexius. You also had an invitation from Melisende you would be foolish to ignore, but that seemed as if it could be answered later in the evening. Your camp rose for you but you waved them back down with an irritated tch. You unbelted your sword and added that to Alexius' load. "And clean my armour," you said as you pulled it off, dumping that also into his arms.

You retreated into the cool shade of your tent. Chihirizahd waited in a simple cream dress.

"You return triumphant, Alexander," she said with a smile.

"Will you tend to me Roxana?" you said, unbuttoning your doublet. You let it fall to the ground and took a chair. She fetched a bowl of water and cloth, at once using it across your bare chest, down to the hard muscles of your belly. The water trailed down your belly. It was scented with flowers, a perfume against the stench of battle. From your brow she cleaned sweat and grime, the water trailing down into your beard, and between your eyebrows she planted a kiss.

She seemed more a true lover than a concubine as she bathed you in your chair, her fingers lingering upon your scars, or a muscle that looked particularly strong. She smiled as she tended you, and with both hands you took her face and kissed her. She drew back with a pretty blush, then grinned as she dumped the water over your head, soon taking a seat in your lap and combing back your wet hair.

A cough, and Etienne ducked inside.

"My lord," he ignored your concubine, he had caught the two of you in more compromising positions than this. "Those invitations."

> call on Lord Gerard of Sidon
> call on Roger of Foix
> call on William Bures
> write-in

>>48580824
> call on Lord Gerard of Sidon

>>48580810
>>call on Lord Gerard of Sidon
>>call on William Bures
>>call on the queen
>>call on Foix

this order

>>48580824
>> call on Roger of Foix

I think we should join his flank on the next attack.

>>48580810
Succ Quest

Man, I bet you'll be hearing moans and gasps all around the camps tonight.

>>48580859
Mathilde Quest when?

>>48580824
>> call on Roger of Foix

why Foix? we have to get him a gift when we see him next in exchange for that emerald ring don't we?

>>48580965

Was thinking that we might join his flank on the next attack, that we might capture two locations total. At least his flank has a greater chance of success, compared to the other attack that didnt even hit the walls.

be back in a bit.

How stupid are you guys? Did you really vote to hook up with Elias?

Fuckin why? He's a piece of shit

>>48581125
Letting Mathilde discover that when it's too late is the appeal

>>48581125
part of the Appeall is fucking with character Synergy, its why Hugo esques political consequence for the greater good and why Mathilde dislikes Hod and Iovetta

>>48581125
Because Matty isn't Wil.

>>48581178
some men just want to watch the world drama

>>48581196
Its actually really interesting to see the siblings working at cross-purposes for their own goals.

Rolled 2 (1d2)

I'm going to flip a coin.

1 is Foix
2 is Gerard

>>48581221
>Wil: Personal Power, Manipulation and self gain
>Hugo: forgo politics save everyone, protect people
>Mathilde: self determination

Gerard of Sidon was, if not a friend, an ally you had made common cause with in the past. It was to his camp you would go, with Alexius by your side. You set Etienne to managing your soldiers, to make sure they were well cared for and rested, they had fought hard this morning, some of them had not returned.

You buckled your sword over courtly finery, crossing your camp with Alexius a step behind. A cheer went up from your followers, from the Hellions in particular who hoisted drinking horns high.

"Wilhelm! Ramla! The Rhine!" they and the German troops cheered. Arnold of Nassau stood amongst them with arm bandaged, whistling along to a German drinking song that Ludegard started to bellow, accompanied soon by his countrymen. The Frechmen led by Valeran soon retorted with a good natured song of their own, the French and German songs blasting one another until they melded into a multilingual mess.

You waved to them as you passed, but the chains of command pulled you from the revelry.

Through the camp you were greeted with similar cheers, though the majority were celebrating the Count Foix and Maine, their names on everyone's tongues. The Sidon camps were close to the Tripoli contingent, and you saw young Raymond, son of Count Pons, sitting with some soldiers drinking. He seemed to be relating some exploit from the battle, miming an arrow through the sky that struck a target, either Saracen or Frank you were not sure, but it made his companions explode with laughter.

Waiting among the Sidon tents was a massive blond bear of a man that seemed familiar to you. He wore steel armour in the Eastern fashion, and wore a fine sword at his belt. He grinned when he saw you approaching.

"Wilhelm of Koblenz," he said, punching your shoulder. His voice was strained with Nordic vowels.

"It's been a while since I was last called that," you said, rubbing the spot he had struck.

"You remember me?" he asked.

A name returned to you. "Sigfrod," the stray Varangian turned to banditry.

"Admiral of Sidon's fleet," he said, tuching his brow and bowing like a gentleman.

"Last I saw you were a convict doomed for slavery," you said.

"And if Ol' Gerard had been a touch less generous I'd now be a pirate, terrorizing all of Palestine," he said with a very pirate grin.

"Well it's good to see you've come up in the world," you said.

"You as well, after this is done we should have a drink, catch up on old times," he thumped your shoulder again as he strode away.

"Mayhap," you said, waving farewell.

A knight came, inviting you into Lord Gerard's tent. You ducked in, your squire following. It was dark, smoky from lit incense. Gerard sat on the side of his bed wearing only his shift, hands at his side as if he were in prayer, eyes closed. They did not open for you even as you sat. A figure shifted in the bed beside him.

"You wanted to speak with me?" you asked.

His eyes flickered open. "Wilhelm," he said, "Forgive my prayer but I have just sinned." He did not sound apologetic. He climbed up from the bed, a hand on his knee and a soft groan from his lips.

The figure rolled over, clad only in the blankets that covered her body. Her hair was worn short, only to her jaw, and it was curled from the sweat of sex. Her face was still dark and freckled, though not as much as it had been when last you'd met her. Neomi covered her yawn on the back of her hand.

"My woman," Gerard said by way of introduction, "You aren't the only one with a bed mate. I might not be able to bring my wife on campaign, but I can bring my whore." He stroked her thigh through the blanket.

"What did you want Gerard?" you aked again. He pursed his lips as he poured you a horn of strong wine.

"I'd like you to join our flank on the next assault," he said, "It did not fail for the reasons you might think."

You leaned forward. "There was an effort made on Hugh of Jaffa's life," Gerard said as he took his seat, "It threw the attack in disarray." He took a sip of water. "If you were with us I doubt these traitors would be so bold a second time," he said. Neomi climbed out from the covers behind her lover, arms ringing his chest, his shoulders, naked form pressed against his back. She seemed far transformed from the girl you remembered. She massaged his shoulders with skilled hands. You saw Alexius stir uncomfortably at the hint of feminine skin.

You kept your focus on Gerard. "Of course my soldiers wouldn't go amiss either," you said, and he conceded that with a nod.

> yes
> no
> write-in

>>48581513
>> yes

"Of course. I will march alongside you and we shall take those damn walls together."

Should we speak of our suspicions regarding the assassination?

>>48581513
>> yes

>>48581513
>> yes
>> write-in
"Was Hugh injured? And what of the traitors."

>>48581494
>no
>write-in
"I'll make the decision when we plan the assault with the others when the time comes. I'll keep your words in mind though."
We'll probably be on his flank in any case but no reason to commit now.

>>48581513
> yes

This changes things, the question is who was the offendee? Gerard's brother? Hugh's man or the Saracen?

>>48581567

Traitors. Means that it came from the camp and the men brought along to war.

We're gonna need to assign a bodyguard to Hugh of Ramlan men or our retinue.

>>48581600
yes and any three of the aforementioned parties could be the culprit

>>48581615
Probably not saracen, though.

>>48581633
no telling what slipped into our ranks during the sally or from levies

but yeah they are the outlier, speaking of which we should ask Gerard why he thinks we'd help dampen their chances

"Of course," you said without hesitation. Hugh was a friend of yours, it didn't matter that he was also your overlord. "Do you know who is behind it, what became of the assassin?"

Gerard lowered his cup. "I think it may be that rat Barisan, and as to the assassin, the head of my mace dealt with him," he said, "I wanted to stun, but it broke his neck. Ah well, one less rat."

"My lord is strong and brave," Neomi purred into his ear, stroking the beard on his cheek.

Gerard gave her an eye. "Lay it on thicker," he said with a touch of sarcasm, but his hand squeezed the calf of her leg. He looked back to you. "Hugh did not see it happening, he does not know how close he came to dying. I suspect more of his men would be happy to push him from the battlements of Ascalon."

"Why me?" you asked.

"I have your measure, murder isn't your play," he said, "And maybe I trust you more than I trust the others," he gave something like a smile, "Not that I trust you altogether."

"Of course," you said.

"I think that you may be able to provide a trustworthy-" his eyes snapped to Alexius, "Boy, if you keep staring at my woman you might as well fuck her. Neomi, what say you, would you pop the boy's cherry?"

She shrugged bare shoulders. "He's not so bad to look at," and gave Alexius a wicked smile that made Alexius break out into a sweat.

"Stop teasing the boy," you said with raised hand, you brought the conversation back around,"So you're saying you want a bodyguard for Hugh?"

Gerard nodded. "Some picked men from your company. You've a mess of talented warriors, none of mine are a match for the brute of a Nubian, even my pet Norseman." True enough.

"And you are certain this is Barisan's scheme?" you asked.

"Near as sure as I can be," he said.

You rose from your chair. "I'll pick out some men to guard Hugh," you said, "But for now I have other business."

"Go with God," Gerard said from the hands of his lover. You smirked at the hypocrisy as you left his tent.

The news that an assassin had tried to kill your friend was troubling, but not entirely unexpected, you had warned him about the possibility in the past. Still, you hated that some would endanger all for their own benefit. If Barisan was responsible, he was a stain on Jerusalem's honour.

Alexius came out wiping sweat from his brow, still off put by Gerard's off-colour jibe. "Where next my lord?" he asked, his voice crackling.

> Count Foix
> Bures
> The Queen
> write-in

>>48581737
>> Bures

please before Wil can find out what happened

>>48581737
> Bures

>>48581737
>> Bures

>>48581737
>> Count Foix

>>48581750
why?

You know, I've been wondering- what were navies useful in this time period for other than carrying land troops and cargo? What are they expected to do in battle, shoot arrows?

Bures commanded the personal forces of Queen Melisende, and his quarter made up the heart of the camp. You found him sitting in front of his tent, eating a bowl of sop with a crust of bread as a ladle. The girth of him threatened the sides of his chair. Behind him stood a pretty young man in armour, perhaps one of William Bures' male lovers. You had heard of his appetite from Chihirizahd.

He saw you coming and his face went glum. "Ramla," he set asid his bowl, stood, "We need to talk about a couple of things or three."

"And these are?" you asked.

He held up his hand and counted them on his finger. "Your sister," he said, "The campaign, and the queen."

"In that order?" you asked.

He gave you another glum look. "In my tent," he said, ushering you in.

"What about my sister?" you asked.

"I hear whispers you've talked with Elias about a betrothal," he said, "After our own chat, I don't like it. And he's been sniffing around your sister's tent. I want you to put an end to it. Your girl is marrying my boy, and that's final."

You didn't much care for the tone of his voice, but he well outranked you.

"And the campaign?" you asked, taking a seat across from him.

"The news hasn't leaked yet," he said, "But I thought you should know, Edessa has been attacked by Zengi. We're keeping this between us and the queen, we don't want a panic. Add to that, our forces captured Gaza, but now they're beseiged themselves by the Nubian Guard. Melisende is thinking about sending relief."

He might not want a panic, but you sat up in alarm.

"And the queen?" you asked.

Something like anger entered his eyes. "Are you fucking her?" he asked, leaning in like a vicious mastiff.

You leaned back with a sour feeling. None of this was good, and you did not like the way the man glared at you.

> write-in

>>48581900
Sorry about laying that all out there, let me fix that:

"Are you fucking the Queen?"
> yes
> no
> write-in

"Remove the betrothal with Elias"
> yes
> no
> write-in

"Support sending relief to Gaza"
> yes
> no
> write-in

>>48581900
"I am not."

I am starting to not want this engagement."

>>48581930

"Are you fucking the Queen?"
> no


"Remove the betrothal with Elias"
> write-in

he is a suitor nothing more, but the tone you are taking with me is starting to make me question our arrangement.


"Support sending relief to Gaza"
> write-in
what are his thoughts on it?


with the Tone he is taking I'm tempted to Imply we know of his male lovers unless he starts acting far more civil towards us

>>48581930
> no
> no
> yes

File: 1469819712450.jpg (64 KB, 194x300)

64 KB JPG

>>48581900
>>48581930
>Bures is THIS assmad jelly
oh man my sides are under siege

>>48582016
just wait till we find out about what happened from mattie or more likely, bayard.

>>48582027
>>48582016
we're going to REALLY make an enemy of the second most powerful man in Jerusalem REALLY?

"No of course I'm not fucking the Queen," you said, not any more anyway. "And as to that betrothal, if you keep speaking to me with such naked disrespect you can kiss it goodbye. For a man who demands respect you are slow to show it, sir." He visibly softened, your chastisement had struck a mark inside him.

You lean back in your chair. "As to providing troops to relieve Gaza, I'm not sure. What do you want from me? I agree with the idea in spirit."

"I want that monster of a Nubian," he said, "And other than that, a hundred of each of our contingents. You won't be burdened alone, we'll all do our part.

> agree
> disagree
> write-in

>>48582050
> agree

we should talk to Solomon about it however HAHA! time for best Swordsmen's backstory!

>>48582050
> agree
He'd prob enjoy killing egyptians.

>>48582050
>> write-in
"Mmm, I'm not exactly adverse to it but would he not be better used here in the siege? The saracens have seen him toy one of their best. The sight of him would weaken morale. Or is the threat from the East that great."

>>48582050
>Agree
Not Solomon though, he's more useful here, unless he feels like spending more time not in battle

Make sure they carry news of our success and boost morale, getting countersieged sounds awful

>>48582050
>> disagree

the sooner we can crush Ascalon the sooner we can shore up our flanks and he can deal a hell of a blow to them here

If he goes how would we pull a Cao cao on Egypt?

as to Elias I suppose future courtship should be held in less private arena's if Bures is so worried about her chastity

>>48582106
>east
If by east you mean south-west then sure.

>>48582050
do we know how many Egypt has sent against Gaza?

"Agreed to the relief," you said, "But my man Solomon, I'm sure he can better be used here. Are we so worried about this Nubian Guard? We shall crush them on the field once we are done taking the city."

Bures gave a slight puff of wind, shifting his bulk. "The Nubian Guard are the Egyptian elite, I fear no other force Egypt can bring to bear, and would sooner fight them behind walls than in the field," he said, "They have a discipline and skill their masters seem to lack. We don't know their exact numbers, but if there is even a thousand of them I'll be concerned."

A skilled foe if there ever was one.

"I will ask Solomon if he wants to go, I'll not force him, that's as good as I can do."

Bures nodded, clapping his thigh. "That's enough for me," he said, "And I'd say that concludes our business."

You rose from your chair. "About the queen," he said, and you paused at the tent flap, "Perhaps I have been rude to you, but Melisende...her father was a close friend of mine, and I care for the girl as if she were my own daughter. I can be protective of her."

You considered the fat old man. "She isn't a girl," you said, "She's a woman and queen, you'd show better loyalty by trusting her."

He nodded, and with that you slipped away. The Queen would be expecting you soon.

> go to Melisende
> go to Foix
> write-in

(next update is last update)

>>48582209
> go to Melisende

>>48582209
> go to Melisende

Send an apology to Foix however

>>48582209
> go to Melisende
I wonder what this could be about.

>>48582209
> go to Foix

Now was the time to visit your queen. You clap Alexius on the shoulder. "Go take my apologies to Count Foix for not being able to visit him," you said, "Tell him he may call on me at his pleasure tomorrow."

"Yes m'lord," Alexius dipped his head before ducking away.

You walked toward the royal tents, the encampment of your queen and your sister. Before you were even half way there you passed someone who stumbled from those tents, a young man scrubbing at his face. You caught no sight of his features, it was too dark by now to see, but you heard his sobs. Some poor young man spurned by a lover no doubt, you chuckled as he stumbled by. The lad would recover.

You passed Bayard sitting in front of your sister's tent, his sword across his knees. If he saw you he didn't call out.

A man-at-arms stopped you at Melisende's tent, demanding your name, but before you could answer Melisende's voice came out. "Let him through Robert," she said, and the soldier stepped aside.

You ducked in to find Melisende reading by candle light, the candle giving a glow to her golden hair. The contents of the letter seemed to trouble her gravely, no doubt more news from Edessa. When she lifted her head and saw you the tiredness of her face turned to a youthful, energetic smile.

"Wil," she said, setting down the letter, "Bad news."

"Bures already told me," you said, taking a seat, "Nubians in Gaza and Turks in the north. What's next, Indians in Britain? Mayhap God will send us Prestor John to end our troubles."

"No such luck on waiting for John but there is good news," Melisende said, "But your friend the Greek Prince has landed, with a hefty number of troops. A thousand men, and him at their head. hey're marching south now and should join us on the morrow."

You whistled, that was good news.

She poured wine and handed you a cup, taking her own. She sipped it as she sank back into her chair, considering you as she often did, through hooded eyes and the curls of her hair.

"You've done well by me Wil, better than I could have hoped. Ascalon is not yet taken but with these Romans I'm certain it will fall," she said, and crossed her arms and her legs, "I didn't reward you publicly, but perhaps I can arrange something private between us, a special reward." She raised a brow above her smile. "I'm giving you a rare opportunity here, if I have it to give to you, you can take it. Just name it, here and now, and I will see it done."

She took a drink, waiting for your answer.

> write-in
(okay, one last update)

If you can't think of anything I can through out suggestions.

But now would be a very good time to be explicit about being made Lord of Ascalon, as an example.

>>48582341
> write-in

as appealing as that would be no, the reward at the end of this would be enough all things considered.

maybe playfully turn her words on our break up on her

>>48582366
>through
throw

I'm tired.

>>48582341
A lordship would be nice.

>>48582341
Make us duke of the Ascalon-Jaffa Duchy and ascalon itself ofcourse

>>48582341
>write-in
"Ascalon, let me be Jerusalem's shield against the Egyptians."

>>48582341
>>48582393
Maybe also refer to our last reward from after the trial as a joke

>>48582341
Iovetta and a Title (duke?) are all I desire now.

and while a tempting offer its been very clear that taking that path would only hurt those dear to me.

>>48582341
Iovetta and >>48582393 is the deal, if she's referring to a more personal ''reward'' we pass on it gently as possible

>>48582341
Duke of the south? and Iovetta

>>48582341
Pump another baby in to her ?

>>48582446
yeah no

"Ascalon will need a lord," you said.

"Funny, Hugh was saying the same. Of making it part of Jaffa and elevating it to the rank of Duchy, and him to the title of Duke," she said, and her smile said she didn't really find it all that very funny. "You would be my shield in the south," she said, "For some reason I find that very comforting."

"Duke Wilhelm of Ascalon, it has a nice ring to it," she said, setting down her cup and rising from her chair. You stood as well.

"And not just Ascalon," you said, "But your sister as well, her hand in marriage. And we would become brother and sister by law."

"Would that add incest to our sins?" she asked, "I'm not sure if such things are retroactive." She smiled. "I was very mean to you, wasn't I? With threats of certain removed appendages. A jealous lover heavy with child. But I think a man like you could stand more threats, so easy it seems for you to get your way."

"I enjoyed it," you said.

"My threats?" she asked.

"Those too," you said, "But our time has passed. I am Ioveta's now."

"I tease," she said, and stroked your jaw, "I do not mean to repeat my mistakes, it's simply fun to flirt with you." She kissed you on the cheek, then stepped over to her bed. "Duke Wilhelm of Ascalon, I'll make it so. And who knows what from there?"

You rose from your chair. "Goodnight Melisende," you said, the knuckles of your hand brushing her shoulder.

"Goodnight my lord," she then kissed you soft on the lips, falling back to the bed with a yawn, "Forgive me, I am tired and I think a little drunk." She stretched out her arms, then lay back on her bed. You could not deny the affection you had for, the mother of your child, and though you moved for the sight of her body, your heart was set on Ioveta.

You left her tent with a smile and a nod for her man-at-arms, who stared forward solidly. You strode back to your own tent in the night, ready to earn your reward.
-
end thread

>>48582341
'What I would ask for is the ability to keep those I love safe from those who would do them harm. I can protect against the zealous and foolish amongst our own ranks but while Ramala has been my home and good to me it has me too far away to protect them from the Moslim in the south. If it can be done my lady give me Ascalon. Let me be the bulwark against Egypt and her slave armies.'

Something like that?

Proud of you guys for dodging the sex there.

I'll stick around to talk. I originally meant to give Hugo some screen time after this but I'm too drained to put in the creative energy.

>>48582541
WOoo. Thanks for running HF. Was a long haul this one.

>>48582541
thanks for running HF

shit is gonna get fucked up with Bures isn't it?

>>48582557
Thanks for running HF.
How else could things have gone with Elinard?

>>48582557

We had a thing but the time for it has passed and now both will look back on it fondly and a little wistfully.

Thanks for running HF, how did we do?

>>48582546
Fuck. Too late.

>>48582541
Cheers for running HF.

Just how good is the Nubian Guard on the field? Soloman good?

File: 1366494762547.png (195 KB, 366x328)

195 KB PNG

>>48582557
>Proud of you guys for dodging the sex there.
>mfw

I figured Hugo either got cold feet about talking to wil about it or got distracted by Sabeen

next thread when?

>>48582560
>>shit is gonna get fucked up with Bures isn't it?
Possibly, yeah. Bures, I wanted to make a guy who is overall decent but doesn't care for Wilhelm. He's a good man. I don't want every potential antagonist to be a sneering villain.

>>48582569
If you had seen him first, fine. You could have strung him along a while longer, but he isn't stupid and has a lot of self-confidence issues that mean he'd have exploded at Mathilde for her attitude eventually.

>>48582573
Not quite Solomon good. As good as the knightly orders.

>>48582579
Maybe Thursday.

>>48582541
>Zengi in the east
>Nubian guard in the south
>Division and intrigue in our camp
>the abysmally low rolls since the start of Ascalon

the hard times are just beginning aren't they?

>>48582590
>Not quite Solomon good. As good as the knightly orders.

wait so Blaise actually stands a little bit of a chance?

speaking of how much of Gaza was butchered when he arrived?

>>48582590

What would his reaction be to that almost rape

>>48582611
>speaking of how much of Gaza was butchered when he arrived?
None spared save those that fled.

>>48582541
shit looks like Hugh may actually have to die (of Negligence) if we want that Duchy

>>48582622
fucking called it, damn mans a butcher

>>48582557
Elirand and Elias has both put Mathilde on a pedestal hasnt they ?

Also Neomi has changed or how much of it is just an act ?

>>48582623
We could also save him and make him feel indebted to us.

>>48582557
>Proud of you guys for dodging the sex there.

The queen, Elias or both ?

>>48582620
Bures? He'd punish Elinard, but he'd also think Mathilde was asking for it the way she'd been carrying on. Most of the guys would have an element of 'its her own fault' bouncing around in the back of their heads, even if they are personally disgusted.

Of all the people most opposed to rape, other than Hugo and Wilhelm, its actually Elias that is strictest about it. I established that pretty early with him too, he was never meant to be a complete scuumbag.

>>48582630
Neomi has changed a lot, she's kind of accepted that society only sees value in her as a sex object so she's really given herself up to that archetype.

>>48582643
Both.

>>48582623

Why? The Queen has already promised us Ascalon. Why do we still need to kill hugh.

>>48582654
>Neomi has changed a lot, she's kind of accepted that society only sees value in her as a sex object so she's really given herself up to that archetype.
That sounds a lot worse written than it did in my head.

>>48582664
That is because it is HF. Goddamnit. Should had offered her a position as chambermaid at our court when we had the chance.Oh well.

>>48582673

Who was neomi again

>>48582683
Jehanne's maid and cousin and Wilhelm's first rump in the Holy Lands. Do find it odd she didnt have a reaction to Wilhelm though.

>>48582690

Ooo, that one.

Well, just a maid.

>>48582630
Indebted is not necessarily a gurantee and I'd rather have it be a sure thing personally

>>48582656
which would level us to Hugh's height not above him

>>48582654
>Neomi has changed a lot, she's kind of accepted that society only sees value in her as a sex object so she's really given herself up to that archetype.

Being Neomi is suffering

btw How will Solomon feel about potentially fighting Nubians?

also how susceptible would they be to the chance to be free or see Nubia free?

>>48582654
>Of all the people most opposed to rape, other than Hugo and Wilhelm, its actually Elias that is strictest about it. I established that pretty early with him too, he was never meant to be a complete scuumbag.

so the scale is something like
>Hugo>Elias>Wil>everyone else>>>>Criminale scum>>>>>>>>>>>>Theodore fucking Komenos

I imagine Theodore is complete scum and abuses the crap out of everything and everyone he wants like a power mad psychopath

>>48582738
Hugh will obey the queen as he has always done

>>48582738
>which would level us to Hugh's height not above him

And thats fine, i believe.

>>48582664
Thank You for running HF.

Also, even if no one else got or appreciated the Prestor John reference, it's those little things that make this quest the best I've encountered.
So excited for taking Ascalon, but not ready for the end ;_;

Just how would elirand have reacted if he had completed and found blood on his cock?

>>48582770
not if we want a duchy

Btw HF Indians in britain is a great refrence