Some lucky few men and women find sanctuary in the barred mosque. Likewise the Jewish quarter resists, the long street with its humble temple barricaded with whatever wood and furniture can be scavenged, terrified men, young and old, manning the barricades with hatchets and mauls, giving the advancing Christians pause.

All this rape and slaughter, flagrant looting, goes on with neither approval nor disapproval from the high lords of Jerusalem. Their business remains at the citadel, where the Saracen gentry cower, where he richest treasures wait to be plundered, and the last of the true fighting men hold out.

You are Wilhelm of Ramla, with the fall of the citadel you are promised to be Lord of Christian Ascalon. You stand before the citadel with the other high lords, all ahorsed, surrounding your queen. Melisende sits in her saddle tall and proud, eyes only on her last objective, shaded by the crown upon her brow.

Soldiers rank behind you under the banners of Christian power, under the True Cross.

A fat man stands upon the terrace of the citadel, armoured and armed, shaking his fist and shouting defiance. He is clearly terrified. Behind him, silent and stern, was grey bearded Malik ibn Mujir, an old friend.

Count Raymond of Tripoli is beside you, teeth barred and red eyed. His father had been slain upon the walls.

"Give the order and we will storm the castle," he said, hand upon his sword, eager for slaughter.

You look up at Malik and see he is watching you. Behind the two men you catch a suggestion of people huddled behind them n the archway of the terrace. Other lords are eager to storm the castle, if for nothing else than the treasury within, which was rumoured to be fat from the pillage of Christian pilgrims. Many are vocal in this, including Gerard of Sidon, who supports Raymond's suggestion with an earnest whisper to Melisende.

The Queen seems uncertain on what to do.

> support storming the castle
> ask to negotiate a surrender
> write-in

>>49172190
> support storming the castle

>>49172190
> support storming the castle

BY FIRE AND BLOODSHED WILL THE SARACEN BE BANISHED FROM THE LANDS OF CHRIST

DEUS VULT

>>49172190
> ask to negotiate a surrender

Any man who would die storming the castle could be better spent fighting Zengi.

Offer that in return for a surrender they will not be killed. However they will be used as ransom to the Caliph.

>>49172190
> ask to negotiate a surrender

>>49172190
>ask to negotiate a surrender

Want to make sure to do as little damage to our new home

>ask to negotiate a surrender

No point losing even more men fighting an already beaten foe.

> ask to negotiate a surrender
> support storming the castle

we give them until miday/late afternoon to surrender the citadel, if they surrender they shall be treated hospitably and ransomed to their relations otherwise we cannot be responsible for what occurs

to much blood has been spilt on both sides for this to be bloodless but we can try to avoid needless bloodshed

Would like to point out that i would prefer if we got Malik alive. First of all he is a friend, the father of Sabeen and he would be of great use against Zengi.

Zengi is a goddamn beast in everything HF has described, rather make sure we got the something to even the odds.

>>49172349
>Would like to point out that i would prefer if we got Malik alive
>Implying he wont try to kill Sabeen for accepting christ
>Implying he wont deny her his kinship
>Implying Malik is not Wahabbi as fuck

we should also quietly point out to the lords that with the new threat to the east, we can ill afford to lose more men and materiale so easily to a sustained attack on a fortified position. Men that can be sent east to fight zengi.

> support storming the castle

let them have this

>>49172466
No point in having men die in a battle that is already won when they can be better spent elsewhere.

> ask to negotiate a surrender

more of a demand, those who surrender now will be given to ransom and treated hospitably till then, those who don't will suffer the consequences

Help is not coming their is only submission or death

>>49172190
Oi Malik! Our Nubian beat your Nubians!

"My queen, enough blood has been shed on these walls," you said, "If you would allow it, I could negotiate a surrender. The man above is known to me and others in our company as an honourable soldier. I'm sure we can reach terms."

"Terms be damned," Raymond snarled, "My father is dead, and someone must answer for it. We should purge this city of its infidel taint as our forefathers did when they captured Jerusalem. Let us cast their women and children into the sea." This seemed to get a low roar of agreement from many of the other lords, many of them your friends and allies, but by no means all of them. Prince Manuel only pursed his lips while Elias looked faintly disturbed by the suggestion, Hugh sat unhappy on his horse staring straight ahead to the citadel's stonework.

Few supported the idea of a surrender, and were keen to end this affair fast and violently.

You lean in close to Melisende. "Let me try," you mutter low, for her to hear alone, "Please. I know I can do this."

Melisende drew up in her saddle with a nod. "I shall let you try, Lord Wilhelm, but if a surrender is not forthcoming, I shall not restrain my men. Let whatever happens next be on the heads of the Saracens, be it an honourable surrender, or death and slavery."

You return her nod and trot your horse forward, alone. The assembled might of Christian nobility waited behind you with spears raised and banners fluttering in the early winter wind. You looked up to the terrac, to the two armoured old men, Malik and the fat master of the citadel.

"I am Wilhelm, son of Wilhelm, Lord of Ramla," you called, voice carrying easily across the yard, "I have come to negotiate a surrender. Throw down your arms and open your gates, and all those within will be taken honourably, left unmolested and provided comfort until their ransom can be paid. This I promise." The two confer in their infidel tongue. You point to them and speak more sternly. "This I also promise, if surrender is not given, we will take this citadel by storm. There will be no mercy or quarter given. There will be no negotiation. Do you understand?"

Malik leaned across the balcony, a tired look in his eyes. "I understand," he called back, "We know Wilhelm, son of Wilhelm, to be a man of his word. We ask only for an hour to talk among ourselves, for our answer to be delivered at the end of that hour. Do you accept?"

You look to Melisende and see her give a slight nod.

"We do," you said. The two old men retreated away from the balcony.

> roll 1d100, best of three

Rolled 91 (1d100)

>>49172688
Butchery awaits

Rolled 25 (1d100)

>>49172688

Rolled 70 (1d100)

>>49172688

Rolled 75 (1d100)

>>49172688

>>49172693
So close to also having the lord letting Wil impregnanting his daughters.

>>49172693
Pretty good I guess.

>>49172693
For zengi.

>tfw Malik will blame Will for his daughter turning to a false god
>tfw our differences will be inconsolable thanks to Hugo giving Sabeen the D

>>49172693
So. Now is a good time to think about names for children?

By the way, we should probably talk to the Queen about Barisan and Hugh's sister. Get them both as far away from Hugh as possible.

>>49172688
The queen know how good Wilhelm's tongue is first hand!

>>49172800
to be honest I'd let Hugh die if his wife is pregnant we lose absolutley nothing from it and basically gain a vassal we can groom to our needs.

but speaking of Huughs sister she may be a good substitute for Mathilde in regards to Elinard, and if she's married off Barisan's ambitions as far we know die with her

>>49172873
Still need to get the sister away from the wife and child.

>>49172873
Enough anon.

>>49172897
which is why if another match comes up for Mathilde we suggest Hugh's sister for an Immediate marriage as part of the compensation for breaking the Bethrothal

>>49172873
Yeah, lose nothing except a friend and ally. Who even needs them?

>>49172947
>Friend
>Ally
for now, who knows how jealousy and ambition turn things out though

>>49172968
More like "Why would he turn against us now he entrusted us with keeping his wife and daughter safe if he died."

They do not confer long. When they do return its with other men of the citadel, mostly older men with greying beards and eyes filled with sorrow. They all sported some form of injury, hastily bandaged. All of them carry weapons bundled in their arms. Swords, spears, maces, axes. They take them to the edge of the balcony and let them fall, slipping from their arms and crashing to the courtyard below in a clatter. The spears and swords roll out to make a carpet of weapons before the entrance to the citadel. The soldiers retreat from the balcony back within as the Christian lords begin to mutter.

The citadel doors grind open. Frightened servants fall to their knees on either side of the gate's frame.

Malik and the Citadel's master stand in the entryway. They both fall to their knees, heads bowed down. Behind them stand in rank and file the surviving soldiers of the city, and behind them were the noble women and children of the keep.

Melisende rides forth, with you at one side and William Bures at the other. The other lords follow you. The two men keep their heads down.

"We put our lives in your hands, entrusted to your honour," Malik said, "I ask only that you extend that sheltering hand to the remaining common folk of this city, to its Muslims and Jews alike. Let this slaughter come to an end." Behind them the women and children stirred, the women wore frightened eyes through the masks of their veils. The children stirred in frightened confusion.

"It is no bad thing to show mercy," Hugh said.

Raymond snarled. "The rules of war are clear, the men have earned their right to punish the defenders." He was correct, but such laws were unwritten.

> support Hugh
> support Raymond
> do nothing
> write-in

>>49173048
> do nothing

we negotiated the surrender let Melisande rule the rest of this

>>49173048
>> support Hugh

The soldiers have had their fun already. It's not like they've been restraining themselves once the city fell.

Time to reign them in.

>>49173048
> support Hugh

>>49173048
> support Hugh

We made a promise. If we were to go back on it, no one will ever surrender to us ever again, nor trust us. Be it christian or heathen. They will be kept as befitting of their station intill the ransom is paid.

>>49173048
> support Hugh

>>49173098

Technically, our promise is only for the gentlefolk and not the smallfolk.

>>49173120
True. Misread that, still i do think it is a good idea. Would make it easier to rule the city if we are known as the guy who reined in the looting and slaughter/rape-

>>49173048
>support Hugh
We kinda have to live here. Might make it more beneficial in the long run

>>49173134

Agreed. Just wanted to point out your slight misunderstanding. Also we'll be living here so its for the best.

>Estranging the count of Tripoli

Yeah GREAT Idea guy's especially since the north is SO loyal to Jerusalem at the moment what with Antioch and everything

>>49173186
Ok.

>>49173186
Fuck this nigga and his murderboner

>>49173378
>murderboner

nigga we can't just spare everyone because muh humanitarian POV we need to keep those we need happy to maintain the kingdom

>>49173411
>humanitarian POV

What ? All the reasons stated was due to self interest. Pretty much a "Dont shit where you eat" kind of deal.

>>49173411
>>49173453

ideally we want to chase a good number of them away so good christian folk can settle in the city.

>>49173538
Offer a bit of extra pay for any european who wish to stay from our army ?

"Mercy is the gift of Christ," you said, and saw Hugh's nod of approval, "We must show ourselves not just to be superior in arms, but in character as well. My lady, it's a fair suggestion."

"Very well," Melisende turned in her horse to call forth Raymond du Puy. "Master Du Puy, send your men to bring peace to the city. Give all looters the grace of an hour, beyond that they shall be punished as common criminals. This is a Christian city now, and Christian law shall be observed."

"Aye my lady," the master of the Hospitallers said with a gentleman's salute. He turned his steed and rode out with his men around him, surcoats flapping as he roared Melisende's orders to his knights and serjeants. Many of the nobles seemed unhappy with this decision, but for the moment they kept their mouths shut.

Melisende dismounted, with you beside her. Others soon followed your example, and you crowded the archway of Ascalon's citadel. The queen gave Malik and his unhappy friend permission to rise.

"You fought valiantly," she said, with a slight bow to the Muslim warriors. They gave slow response, bows of their own. She looked past them to the surviving soldiers, unarmed but still armoured, and past them to the frightened huddle of women and children. To them she said, "You all will remain in Ascalon, under guard and in apartments, and under the care of Ascalon's new lord, until word can be sent to your master in Fastut to pay your ransom. You will be given all good care."

Malik translated her words for the Egyptian nobility, and they stirred uncomfortably at it. One, a golden skinned young woman with dark hair that escaped the hem of her scarf, asked Malik a question in their humming language. He looked back to Melisende.

"Who is to be the new lord of Ascalon?" he asked.

Melisende smiled, and turned to you. "Let it be known, that Ascalon shall be under the command of Wilhelm, Lord of Ramla." Some eyes widened among the Christians but others just nodded. Applause was given, but no great hearty cheer. Many did come up to congratulate you personally. Hugh grinned, squeezing your shoulder. Lord Gerard gave a simple nod. The Count of Foix gave you you a slap on the back. Prince Manuel gave you a generous smile and a half-bow.

None directly grumbled, but you saw some jealous glances shared around.

> Attained: Ascalon
Your men and those in the queen's livery began to file through the archway. Sir Etienne and his one-time squire, Sir Jacques, directed the arrest of the remaining soldiers, men-at-arms escorting them to quarters that could be secured. Beside you soon stood your brother, Sir Hugo. For all his knightly title, he wore the same arms and armour of this morning's combat, his axe and maille still bloody. His eyes flicked nervously to Malik.

Behind him, waiting with your other men, was Sabeen. She seemed a nervous girl looking into the deep corridor of Ascalon.

Before Malik was taken away, he came up to you.

"Well done my boy," he said, a grin despite the sorrow in his eyes, "You've come far since I first met you."

"You were never my enemy," you said, "We just warred for a time."

"A nice thought," he said, and he looked past you to his daughter, and his face went pale. "Come and visit me when you can," he said, before marching away with Templar escorts.

Melisende touched your arm, turning your attention back to her. "What is your first order, Lord Ascalon?" she asked. Though she did not smile she seemed well pleased, a softening of her face you recognised from late nights spent together.

> secure the treasury
> secure the Jewish quarter
> secure the mosques
> write-in

>>49173586
> secure the treasury

There is still some left of that hour we gave them. Then we can secure the mosques.

Or should we secure them first ? They are bound to have some riches in them AND we will look good for the common people?

>>49173586
>> secure the treasury

>>49173586
>> write-in
Stop malik quickly.

Ask him about the assassin of zengi. and where the fuck he ended up. That one must be quartered.

>>49173586
> secure the treasury
> secure the mosques

if its anything like a proper christian city these should be the richest places

I'd recommend awarding some additional treasure to the Jerusalem nobles for their patience and cooperation in taking the city with only as much bloodshed as necessary

FUCK YEAH WE"RE MARRYING OUR WAIFU!

>>49173661
>>49173586
>>49173657
Fuck yeah. Nabil needs to fucking die.

>>49173586
> secure the treasury

>>49173586
> secure the treasury

>>49173669
> secure the mosques
> secure the treasury

>>49173669
this

>>49173661
THIS!!!!!!

>>49173586
> secure the treasury

>>49173669
>>49173661
Pretty much this.

>>49173657
>>49173658
>>49173683
>>49173700
>>49173738

we need to secure both so we can doll out rewards as we please, please change your votes to >>49173669

>>49173586
>>49173657
Changing to >>49173669

Hey HF can we pay Maliks ransom to keep him hostage?

I'd hate to fight him again

>>49173787
No.

>>49173669
They are going to get a portion of it.

Remember the sections about the dividing of the treasury. Each noble will be getting a share.

>>49173822
If we secure the Mosques it will allow us to give a more generous portion to those who grumbled about a lack of blood or suffered the worst of the losses during the siege

>>49173586
>> secure the treasury
>> secure the mosques

Faith and Coin, that's the only thing worth a damn right now.

>>49173661
Why not send Malik to secure the Mosques as a gesture of good faith with Sirs Hugo and Jacques?

The treasury of Ascalon was a subterranean vault, dug into the earth in the time of Alexander. Wide and deep, it's walls were marked with ancient, even pagan, friezes of galloping centaurs and capering satyrs, both chasing after half-dressed women-folk across fields and waters. Others showed soldiers in arms marching in step, perhaps the armies of Alexander himself, or one of his many successors. The roof above was domed, a stone shelter.

Beneath it, and before the eyes of all, were the treasures of Ascalon. Jewels and gemstones set into figures of gold and silver. Chalices, plates, small idols. Precious furs from exotic beasts, heaps of amber, jade, bolts of silk. Coinage taken as tribute or as plunder, showing the markings of dozens of nations. And set upon a bookcase, leather bound tomes and ancient scrolls.

Your men gaped at the treasures before them, and yourself, you felt a hot prickling across your skin. Even with the divided take you were a rich man. Franz went and held up a golden bowl, holding it close to his eyes, fingers measuring the length of it. He looked back to you with an impressed nod.

Rather than dive into your new treasure like a duck into a pond, you posted men upon the entryway and with a nervous flutter, left to see to other business. The corridors of Ascalon were wide, the roof high. You felt you had been transported back to the days of pagan gods and ancient armies, of the hundred thousand strong legions of Rome and Persia. Every where you looked you could see this place had not been made by Christian hands, you do not think such a thing could be made in this day and age. You were grateful for Malik's surrender, he could have punished you hard if you had tried to storm it.

The entry chamber of the citadel was a waiting ground for the nobility. Chairs had been produced, and Melisende sat with her vassals.

"Portions of the spoils shall be divided as such..." she said as you passed.

You gave out orders for your men to go into the city and take charge of the mosques, to make sure the common folk were left unmolested and their treasures secured for your own good. In time these mosques would be reconsecrated into churches, it would not be practical to have them burned.
With that last order given, you asked after the chamber of Malik. A soldier in the colours of Tripoli gave you directions.

It was above a stairwell, and Sabeen guarded it, looking unhappy as she leaned against the door. She stood up for you. "Wil," she said.

"Is your father well?" you asked. She shrugged.

"He won't speak with me," she said, "Because I am..." Christian, you thought. None of your followers had sacrificed as much as Sabeen had, you realized. She had broken ways with her father and her faith in service to you.

> offer her a reward of her choosing
> never mind her, you had business with her father

(sorry, lost my trip)

>>49174132
>> offer her a reward of her choosing

She deserves it. She's also probably going to choose to marry Hugo and then Wilhelm is going to get really mad.

>>49174132
> offer her a reward of her choosing

>>49174132
gods.

Hug her. Comfort her. He is her father, he will come around. We will talk to him.

> offer her a reward of her choosing

>>49174132
> offer her a reward of her choosing

>>49174132
>> offer her a reward of her choosing

>>49174112
>Precious furs from exotic beasts

DIBS ON A NICE WOLF PELT FOR HUGO

>>49174132
> offer her a reward of her choosing

good service is due a reward so long as it's not to do with releasing her father from our custody we will forfill it to our best ability

>>49174112
>new treasure like a duck into a pond

UNCLE SCROOOOOOOOOGE

>>49174154
I think by now both Hugo and Sabeen have more than proven themselves.

Honestly I can see Wil getting mad before giving a sigh of defeat and saying "Fuck it, I can't stay mad forever."

>>49174252
same.

I just beg hugo doesn't mouth off again.

>>49174252
Guess we could make it up to Joyce by allowing him to build a chapter house in the city instead.

Oh and we should probably write back home to Ramla and a certain someone in Jerusalem.

>>49174290

Definitely yes and his choice of house in the city, free.

>>49174252
yes but they can't get married still because dammit all Hugo has value beyond being our bastard brother

>>49174290
Yes and YES!

You place a hand to her armoured shoulder and squeeze.

"Tell me what you want, and if its within my power I'll give it to you," you said.

She smiled. "What's there to give? The open road, a horse beneath me, a spear in hand..." but her expression went tender, "But I suppose there is one thing." She took your hand and placed it to her belly. "I think...I think a child is growing inside me," she said that with a nervous hitch in her voice, which put a fearful squirm in your chest. "I would like that child to have its father wed to its mother. If you would allow it." Her eyes were soft with gentle pleading.

> yes
> no

>>49174389
> yes

Fine. Christ HF how much and for how long did they do it ?

>>49174389
>> yes

Goddammit, I hate it when I sense this shit.

"Hugo's a bastard-born. I won't let his children be bastard-borns."

>>49174404
Bruh.

They fucked like rabbits ever since the siege started.

>>49174389
OH GODDAMIT

> yes

on the day the child is born though

>>49174389
> yes

>>49174389
> yes
I apologize for my selfishness

>>49174389

Goddammit HF, now I'm visualizing Casca begging Griffith to let her marry Guts.

You bastard, and if we find a stupid egg-shaped amulet in the vault, I'm-a quit you.

>>49174389
>> yes

Give her a hug. But ask her not to tell hugo yet. At least let us be the one to tell him. So that we might mend that gulf between us.

>>49174389
>yes

I'll not make a bastard of him

>>49174509
>Implying you can quit HF's wild ride

>>49174625

I've tried.

It took HF's 3 month absence for me to feel free for once.

Then he came back like the goddamn Pied Piper of Hamelin and ensnared me with his enthralling words.

He's a fucking Apostle, I fucking swear.

>these votes
Hugo will have to do with being a family man without renown for marrying into brown

>>49174709
Dude. Do you think he is just going to sit in a castle all day ?

>>49174709

Dude. Hugo led the Forlorn Hope in the breach in the wall.

Fucker also cleaved a line of spearmen while channeling Thorkell the Tall.

You smiled and brushed back her hair. "I would be happy to have you as a sister," you said, and kissed her cheek. She smiled and took you into a quick hug.

"Thank you, my lord," she said, kissing you on your scarred cheek. Once she released you, she stepped away from the door.

You found Malik inside a small apartment. It was not uncomfortable, it had a small cot, a fire place and a small table set with fruit. An arrow slit let in air, and it was at this slight Malik sat, hand against his chin, turban half unwound, deep in thought. A shatranj set was laid upon the fruit adorned table, pieces in movement, some kind of play.

He looked to you.

"You visit me early, I've yet to make this my home," he said with a wave to his environs.

"You seem comfortable enough," you said, taking a seat.

"And what brings the Lord of Ascalon to my door?" he asked. If he was bitter in defeat, it did not show in his tone.

"There was an Assassin in your number, a man named Nabil," you said, "He did personal injury to me. I would see him caught, and swiftly executed."

Malik frowned, his hand coming out. "This man is not known to me," he said, "As far as I know, none of those fanatics were in this city."

"He lead your night raid on Jerusalem's camp," you said, and touched your cheek to demonstrate, "I saw him there."

Malik looked back out the window. "That is not good," he said, "I think the Old Man in the Mountain has his own game, one tied up with the Turk Zengi."

"A conspiracy," you thumbed a shatranj piece. The set was as well kept as you remembered, polished but still impressed with the dimples of constant use. Malik shrugged.

"It is not my concern," he said, "I feel I have fought my last war, and lost it."

"You kept your people safe," you said, setting the piece down.

>>49174724
He can trudge along with Solomon. The lords and knightly orders won't give him much repute after this.

>>49174709
>Implying this is the end of his adventures

he's going to be a fucking kingsguard

>>49174686
>Hf is an Apostle

this was known

"Only due to your mercy, and that of Jerusalem's queen," he replied. He looked defeated, not just physically, but in his soul. "Leave me be, so that I may rest," he said, moving to his cot. He looked old, almost frail. It nearly broke your heart to see him struck so suddenly feeble. Like a son realizing the age of his father.

How could you help this man?

> let him rest
> enlist him against Zengi

>>49174831
> enlist him against Zengi

Work for me.

>>49174831
>> enlist him against Zengi

"You've been a father to me-- nay, a better father than the one that sired me. If you could lend me your strength once again, it would gladden my heart greatly."

Also drop that fucking bombshell.

"Also, Sabeen and Hugo are having a kid."

>>49174831
>> let him rest
>> enlist him against Zengi

"I would ask that you come into my service once more but i'd not demand an answer now. Rest up old man. I'll come see you again."

>>49174831
> let him rest
> enlist him against Zengi

could we offer him an Advisory role, Egypt is one thing but Zengi makes Rome tremble and that is something else entirely

he doesn't have to fight for us just listen and give advice

>>49174831
> enlist him against Zengi

>>49174831
>> enlist him against Zengi

>>49174831
You sure about this vote? It's literally "gain nothing" vs "gain something"

>>49174894
>"Also, Sabeen and Hugo are having a kid."

Sorta conflicted on dropping that bombshell. That really should be Sabeen's to deploy.

>>49174831
>> enlist him against Zengi

>>49175015
have an old friend live out the rest of his days in relative peace or have him die fighting against Zengi?

not really a lose v win scenario if HF ends the quest now

>>49174831
> let him rest

>>49175018
The way I see it, Malik won't talk to Sabeen so we may as well be the one to tell him. That way he can stop being a prideful old fart and make up with his daughter instead of dying alone and brokenhearted.

>>49175074
Yeah, but I'm talking about anonsense. They're diplomancers and munchkins to the core.

>>49175112
Sabeen would not abandon her father like this. It'll take some time for him to overcome his shock. He'll come around.

"Zengi has attacked Edessa, camp talk has it Edessa will fall," you said.

Malik shrugged. "Zengi is a talented war maker, I can believe he saw n opportunity. None there can match him."

"Jerusalem could use a capable man who knows the Turkic ways," you said, offering him your hand.

Malik smiled but closed your hand into a fist. "I think I am done with war," he said, "But I thank you for the offer. I shall retire to Egypt, to Fastut. I have an estate there kept by a friend."

You did not like his answer, but you saw he was determined.

"I understand," you said. You drummed the elephant light upon the head and gave Malik a smile. "You know you are to be a grandfather?" His eyes widened an inch, lips parting, but then they closed, his eyes became hooded and expression withdrawn.

He closed his eyes, bowed his head. "God be with you, Wilhelm," he said.

"And with you, Malik," you replied.

You left him to his bed, to his quarters. Once outside you were summoned to the courtyard. A squabble had arisen over the Jewish question. Their barricades had not come down, and the Jews had gone mostly unmolested. They had sent out a dignitary, a short, brown little man with long, curly sidelocks and a nervous eye for the armed Christians that surrounded us.

He stood under Sir Hector's eye, unaware the young man was a Jew himself.

"I am Tirosh," he said with a nod, "My people wish to know what is to be done with us."

"Cast them out," a call was made from a man-at-arms. "Who needs Jews?" another cried. You saw a flinch in Hector's eyes.

> offer the Jews your protection
> cast them out of Ascalon

>>49175171
> cast them out of Ascalon

Put them in Ramla QUIETLY

>>49175171
>> offer the Jews your protection

"Are we all not children of God? For shame!"

>>49175171
> offer the Jews your protection

For a price of course.

>>49175204
>tfw modern Hollywood sensibilities in a historical setting

>>49175171
>> offer the Jews your protection

There will a place for our abrahamic brethren.

That they bring the jewgold helps.

>>49175200
this it's the best answer and we can tax them

>>49175200
Ramla is going to lke it even less. Just have them in Ascalon. They are good source of tax income.

>>49175200

So you want an entire city quarter of Jews to relocate to a bumfuck tiny-ass village?

This is as bad a the gulags and pogroms.

>>49175171
>> cast them out of Ascalon

CAST OUT JUDA-

>>49175200
this works better

>>49175250
yes and? they can deal with it

>>49175254
YES AND? I CAN"T HEAR YOU OVER HOW PIOUS I'M LOOKING?

>>49175267
>>49175200
You want to put hundreds of jews into a small town of a half a thousand christians ?

>>49175171
>> offer the Jews your protection

Jerusalem has a jewish quarter. No reason why we cant have one here.

>>49175324
no actually it doesn't non-christains are banned from the Holy city

>>49175301
yes

>>49175294

Goddamn, why don't we just rename Ramla to the City of Jews while we're at it? That'll go real well with the entire realm and all.

>>49175301
considering Ramla is basically going to be a small town with that influx I would have no problem with this.

>>49175171
> offer the Jews your protection

>>49175381
>quiet resettlment as opposed to openly keeping a jewish quarter

yeah whatever we're basically Judas's kin at this point anyway

>>49175171
>> offer the Jews your protection
"who needs jews? we all do. who will do the work that you won't like to do, guard? Hmm? would you rather do the things that they could do for you instead?"

File: Not all Schurglubians.jpg (423 KB, 1582x1496)

423 KB JPG

>>49173143
>Letting enemy Saracen Muslims live in our city is beneficial
Nigga. I can't think of a worse penalty to governing a city, than letting a bunch of people that just got bludgeoned and their wives, daughters, and sister raped in front of them stay free in the city. They are now your enemies for life if they weren't before. You can't undo what's already been done. They should all be killed or enslaved now.

>>49175440
>Nigga. I can't think of a worse penalty to governing a city, than letting a bunch of people that just got bludgeoned and their wives, daughters, and sister raped in front of them stay free in the city.

welcome to Half of fucking europe at this point

>They should all be killed or enslaved now.

most of them damn well will be enslaved

File: pol.jpg (70 KB, 501x585)

70 KB JPG

>keeping Jews

I wonder who was behind this

>>49175440
It's gonna be 10 years of resentment before they stop being salty and pay their taxes properly.

Now if we go the route of BENEVOLENCE...

>>49175519
>going Full benovolance

Oh so NOW we're going full Benevolance

fuck off Lu bei

>>49175536
SunCefag pls

>>49175519
>Now if we go the route of DIPLOMANCINGLOL...

>>49175171
>> cast them out of Ascalon
If I'm not too late.

now watch our piety drop to

>some consider you a Heretic

because we don't tow the fucking line and do what is necessary to appear pious

>>49175581
now its sunjianfag pls

>>49175641
what a way to close the quest

>>49175641
We will appear pious when we allow the Templars to build a chapter house in our city

>>49175713
not really due to the amount of ''FUCKING HEATHENS REEEEE'' we associate with and tolerate under our rule

>>49175736
Who we will begin to convert and we will turn the mosques into churches.

>>49175763
that really wont do shit I mean it's fucking standard practice

if we want to up our relations to piety we shold stand out

>>49175788
Give a heavy tribute to the patriach of jerusalem ?

>>49175788
There's piety.

Then there's "are you fucking retarded you just eliminated 30% of the city's tax base because of a stupid religious whim".

>>49175788
Didn't the drop in piety came about when we were scheming abit about how to off hugh and inherit jaffa.

>>49175763
That's not what was voted, anon
That isn't even remarkable given the city is Christian now

>>49175811
we're already pretty fucking rich I'd say suffer the loss and rebuild it another way

>>49175827
now it dropped because we associate with Goyim and Moslems

you can damn well stick your dick and still be pious just see Hugo

"The Jews shall stay a subject people of Ascalon, protected by mine own hand," you said, with the understanding they would be well taxed in return. Where there was Jews, there was trade, and you felt confident keep a Jewish quarter in your city was for the long term good. It made Hector breath easier, but the Christians grumbled. No doubt they had dreams of dividing the wealth of synagogues and rabbis among themselves.

That was the major issue. From there many of the common-folk were divided up as spoils alongside the pillaged wealth, destined for the slave markets of the Levant and further Europe. Lords were given their share of the reward, which many further shared with their loyal followers. The nobility were kept in relative comfort as word was sent to the Caliph and their relations in the turmoil known as Egypt. In that time you set about solidifying your rule in Ascalon.

Mosques were topped with crosses as priests lay down benedictions, homes emptied of their Muslim inhabitants to make way for Christian colonists. Most of the Muslims not enslaved left willingly, unable to tolerate a Christian overlord or forgive the sack of their city and the despoilment of their people. Some Muslims stayed in small quarters, able to argue their value, frightened of the dangers of the road or with no relations to flee to in the countryside. The sight of armoured Hospitallers kept the peace, between Christian, Muslim, and Jew. The holy men, for all their zealous reputation, kept an even hand on transgressions, and few could argue the fairness of their measures. Many of the Lords of Jerusalem had remained in your hospitality, as had the Queen herself, a magnificent townhouse gifted to her and kept by her own people.

It was a week in such a state when the Gaza force returned. They marched up the high road, banners flaring around them, three men riding at the head of the troops. Solomon rode his war horse with helm upon his head, giving the Nubian an iron nose and shaded glare, though his smile was a crescent moon upon his dusky face. Blaise rode on one side of him, and Barisan on the other.

A cheer went up at the victorious return of the Gaza forces. News had reached you of their crushing victory over the Nubian Guard, of the heroic exploits of the Christian defenders in repulsing wave after wave of attacking Egyptians. Solomon dismounted in the courtyard of your new citadel and embraced you warmly.

"Bother," he said, "You've done well."

"As have you," you said, clapping his arm as you climbed out of his embrace. He wore a scar upon his chin, a small little diagonal cut. It was his only blemish. The troops dispersed amongst your own.

With the return of triumphant Christians a celebratory mood had taken over the conquerors of Ascalon. Wine was soon flowing, and Solomon regaled you with tales of his exploits.

"I hear you have another reward coming," Solomon said with a knowing wink.

You grinned. Ioveta would be here soon.

A runner came from the queen, calling you to her residence, where she was entertaining Sir Barisan on his return. You fetched a fine coat for the cold weather that had set in, and crossed your city.

It was still a land of armed soldiers, few colonists had yet to arrive, but some had started to show. Italians, Sicilians and Genoans both, had entered the city with the fleet. They haggled with Jews as badly as Jews, you struggled to separate one from the other except if the Jewish man had grown out his sidelocks, and even then the difference was minimal. Some soldiers had settled in the city as well. You know Bayard had sent for his wife, and Tancred's sons, not least his near twin Odo, had come to visit their wounded father.

The queen's residence was guarded by both templars and hospitallers. You found her in the garden, wearing her fur coat, drinking mulled wine with the dull faced knight, Sir Barisan. The trees had shed their leaves, turned into tall grey skeletons, long boney limbs arching out above the conversing party. Barisan acknowledged you with a bow.

"Lord Ascalon," he said. It sounded alien to you still to have that title.

"Wilhelm, sit," Melisende motioned to a chair, "We were just discussing what should be done with Gaza. Sir Barisan has suggested it should belong to my cousin Hugh. What do you think?"

> by right it should be mine
> give it to Hugh
> it should be a royal domain
> give it to the knightly orders
> write in

>>49175959
> by right it should be mine

If we cant then.
>> give it to the knightly orders

>>49175959
>give it to the knightly orders

sir Blaise in his VALIENT defense of the city should establish a chapter

RIP Orlando you could of had Gaza

>>49175959
>> by right it should be mine

But if push comes to shove

>> give it to the knightly orders

Logic: If we (or the knightly orders) are to be the Southern Shield of Jerusalem, then we'll need the land, wealth, and manpower to muster against the Egyptians.

>>49175959
>> write in
I would actually suggest that it be given to Barisan.

Come clean. Tell her of the plot we've uncovered. By giving Gaza to Barisan, we'd seperate the plotters and keep the semblance of order, that we'd not have infighting about plots between christian lords.

>>49175959
> give it to the knightly orders

>>49175959

Talk with the Queen about Barisans plots first before making a choice.

>>49175959
>>49176013
a fair option that appears on the surface to be rewarding valor.

still if anything, i support telling the queen of the plot whatever we do.

>>49175959
Talk with the queen first about barisan

>>49175959
I can't remember whose men were sent to defend it, honestly

>>49176013
and make him more powerful for it? I think not

if Gaza is given to someone else not a vassal under Hugh they will have to lean on us a LOT and with that we can basically make them our vassal

>>49176070
Templars

Barisan plan seems to be

>give Gaza to Hugh, when hugh dies it goes to his sister which he marries.

He gets Jaffa and Gaza. While still looking virtious. And he will have some serious fire power against us as Duke of Southern Palestine.

>>49176070
Barisan and Templars

File: 1443050955193.png (11 KB, 470x454)

11 KB PNG

>>49176013
>>49176034
>>49176051
what plot?

>>49175959
WAIT FUCK.

BARISAN IS STILL THERE. HE DIDN'T LEAVE.

ABORT.

>>49176070
We sent Solomon.

He counts as 1000 men.

Fucker killed 4% of the total enemy force solo.

>>49176094
Barisan has an afair with Hugh's sister who is currently his heir. He has tried to kill Hugh for when he dies everything he has will go to his sister who he will then marry.

>>49176086
Owning a small town isn't powerful.

Also, he'll owe his protection to us.

>>49176094
Barisan conspired with Hugh's sister to kill Hugh.

Also Barisan is the Marshal of Hugh's forces.

Also Barisan has been fucking Hugh's sister.

Hugh was Wil's liege lord.

Fealty and loyalty demands that Barisan not touch Hugh's sister.

Guess whose dick needs to be chopped off?

>>49175959
>>49176095
>BARISAN IS STILL THERE. HE DIDN'T LEAVE.

ah shit. >>49176051 here

Can we speak with the queen privately.

>>49176115
He plans to get Gaza AND Jaffa. Dont give it to him on a silver platter. We would be better of claiming it ourselves and give it to Etienne or one of the holy orders.

>>49176094
>Kill Hugh inherit Jaffa, Gaza Etc
>Kill Hugh's Heir inherit Jaffa,Gaza Etc

its why I say we kill him if his wife is pregnant so we can secure the Heir and rule Jaffa as regent and Marry his sister off somewhere FAR FAR AWAY

>>49176115
Gaza is still a city, just one that is largely in ruins

"May I have a word in private?" you asked Melisende.

She nodded. "Do wait outside, sir," she said, inviting Barisan to leave. Once he had done so you leaned across the table.

"You cannot trust that man," you said, "He conspires with Hugh's sister to steal Jaffa, and they will kill him to get it. He masks his treachery with loyal words, but the man is a snake."

"I see," she said, sipping her drink, "Then what do you propose, that I give Gaza to you? I have enriched you once already, people will talk."

> claim Gaza
> see it given to the knightly orders
> write-in

>>49175959
> give it to the knightly orders
Orders love castles

>>49176163
> see it given to the knightly orders

It will also repair our piety and make sure our border to the south is well protected.

>>49176163
> see it given to the knightly orders

>>49176163
>> see it given to the knightly orders

I mean they will basically be indebted to us because they'll need support while they rebuild the city

Give it to Blaise of the Templars and we have a dog we can let off the leash on Egypt

>>49176163
We will of couse keep a De Jure control over it, right even by giving it to the orders.

>>49176163
>> see it given to the knightly orders
The Templars and Hospitallers made up the entirety of the Center wave during the Wall Assault.

Give it to them for their valor and courage.

>>49176163

> give it to the holy orders

>>49176163
>> see it given to the knightly orders

"Better Gaza in the hands of the Templars and Hospitallers so that they may be the Shield in the South rather than that rat Barisan, who conspired to kill Hugh while bedding Hugh's sister."

I wonder if we can get someone to slip poison into that man's wine. He must have some he keeps in his tents.

I do believe it is time to shower our close friends and retinue in gifts.

Also fuck Chiri while she wears that fancy dress of hers.

>>49176163
>>49176168

>>49176241
>not getting Chiri a BETTER dress
>not gettting Solomon Bronze decal armour with an Eagle motif
>not getting Etienne something
>not getting Hugo a wolf pelt
>not getting Iovetta everything she ever wanted
>not getting Hector knighted in secret
>not getting everyone BLING
>not giving Franz an estate
>not starting a library of Muslim and christian texts translated to latin

Somebody post a good map of the crusader states at this time.

>>49176316
Theres got to be something good in the vaults with all the exotic animal pelts in there.

About hector though, how does one reknight him without exposing him as a fraud.

>>49176316
I am actually in favour of building a library. Recording all the texts from east and west.

"Grant it to the knightly orders, the Templars," you said.

"A fair idea, they would make a good bulwark against Egyptian reprisals," she said, "I shall see it done."

When Barisan returned Melisende informed him of this and the knight's expression went sourer still. "I must return to Jaffa," he said, saluting you both before leaving. You were happy to see the back of him, but knew there was no doubt some other scheme boiling away in his head.

Your business concluded, you returned to your citadel in Solomon's company.

The castle was so large compared to Ramla it seemed almost empty. You had sent word for your people to join you here, but they were slow on the road. Jacques, as a knight, had claimed a little corner for himself, and Etienne's apartments were right below your own. Etienne was busier than anyone else, with troops and queries from townsfolk, establishing homes for colonists and other such nonsense. He was an able administrator, and his diligence had spared you a lot of late nights peering over a desk.

Chihirizahd had established your quarters and taken command of your servants, the kitchens, ruling the workers of the citadel as a general did his army, deploying and redploying workers where they were needed, dismissing and punishing those that proved to be too lazy or self-interested to be effective. She carried herself almost like a free woman, or a lord's wife, that some suggested she was good as th Lady of Ascalon while in their cups or in the market.

Hugo spent most of his time in the practice yard with Hector, and when not drilling with him, in private with Sabeen. She had set aside her armour for now, going about dressed in silken garments. Though she was apostate, she served as a bridge to those Saracen women still held in ransom, taking their grievances to you or offering advice to them.

All in, it was a suitable arrangement.

It was then you heard from the road.

Princess Ioveta's caravan had been spotted.

>>49176316
>not getting Welf and Orlando the fanciest tomb in all of The Holy Land.

I'm going to take a break for a bit.

There's a lot to get through in the next couple of updates.

>>49176372
>Hugo spent most of his time in the practice yard with Hector, and when not drilling with him, in private with Sabeen. She had set aside her armour for now, going about dressed in silken garments. Though she was apostate, she served as a bridge to those Saracen women still held in ransom, taking their grievances to you or offering advice to them.

... my fucking Berserk senses are tingling.

Casca's gonna happen to Sabeen, I can sense it.

>>49176394

Is it too late to ask Solomon to snipe Barisan's head from afar.

Is Hugh still our guest?

>>49176372
>Chihirizahd had established your quarters and taken command of your servants, the kitchens, ruling the workers of the citadel as a general did his army, deploying and redploying workers where they were needed, dismissing and punishing those that proved to be too lazy or self-interested to be effective. She carried herself almost like a free woman, or a lord's wife, that some suggested she was good as th Lady of Ascalon while in their cups or in the market.


Oh yeah. Should probably get her a few servants. Considering she is the lords courtesan

>>49176372
>Princess Ioveta's caravan had been spotted.


Oh god. Oh god. Been a long time since they last saw. I wonder if our family is with it as well

>>49176372
>Princess Ioveta's caravan had been spotted.

at last, we're spending like the next week in bed with her we can Introduce her to Chiri the day before church so we can make extra confessions

>>49176394
we love you HF

Break is being extended by a couple hours. See you guys soon.

>>49176474

Bruh.

Chiri and Iovetta are already acquainted. See the suptg archives.

Chiri isn't our spymaster for nothing.

>>49176372
>Etienne's apartments were right below your own. Etienne was busier than anyone else

God dammit Orlando.

We should bring his remains into the city and rebury him with a good headstone and cross.

>>49176574
Thanks for letting us know.

>>49176442
>getting your slave servants

wow hey reign in that eagerness please, she can act like she's the top hen but we're getting married

lets not get stupid with our sorta not really infidelity just because we've for-filled our halfway ambitions

>>49176574
hope everything is okay

>>49176578
I meant INTIMATELY

>>49176574
Cheers HF, we'll be waiting warmly, nursing small ber.

>>49176616
A menage a trois?

Oh boy...

>>49176616
Nah its pretty normal to have servants for high ranking mens concubines.

File: 1435638593649.jpg (517 KB, 1251x1726)

517 KB JPG

anon requested a map

>>49176635
yes but I thought we'd kinda tone it down so as not to disrespect Iovetta and thus the royal family by openly flaunting the fact we have a concubine

Guys, any suggestions on how to deal with Barisan.

>>49176665
Position Hugh sister away from Jaffa. Barisan will caught a tragic fever on the road.

>>49176672
Ask the queen to take her as a handmaiden?

>>49176665
Simple.

You out him.

You tell the realm that he's been fucking Hugh's sister and that as such he's betrayed the trust and loyalty of his liege, Count Hugh.

Disgraced and dishonored, Barisan won't be able to do anything besides becoming a petty bandit.

Then we send Hugo out on the roads with a Templar/Hospitaller patrol and conveniently kill Barisan.

File: Waka.jpg (1.14 MB, 1251x1726)

1.14 MB JPG

>>49176636
next move should be to obviously take Darum and establish castles along the river south of Gaza to shore up Jerusalem's south and gain good faith with the orders and minor nobility

>>49176703

Not at this point though. We need to concentrate on killing zengi's army off.

>>49176703
>>49176723

Can still build the forts and castles to the south though

>>49176700
we have no proof beyond Hugo's word and by slandering Aines we insult Hugh

we need ''proof'' by feudal standards to prove it

>>49176692
further than that maybe france, germany or Italy, maybe marry her off to a ''suitable'' Husband like say Elinard?

>>49176723
both? I mean castles can be built while we're away

>>49176731
yes but the river makes a good choke point for marauders/armies

>>49176700
>word against word
namefag pls

>>49176766
In the end, Barisan just needs to die.

And Hugh should remain a guest with us till our wedding and the war with zengi.

>>49176808
yes agreed if we really are going to keep Hugh alive and not kill him if his wife is pregnant

maybe bashed by some errant knight in the streets?

>>49176829
We're not killing Hugh, fuck off.

We also need Hugo to tell Wilhelm about the Silk Road trade route which they want to open with him.

why don't we build a big fuckoff church to celebrate our marriage?

also get Foix something much better than that emerald ring he gave us

also slaves lots of slaves pretty ones too

We should probably invite Sir Froggy and Co. to Ascalon to re-negotiate our trade deal. Heck maybe we could make him stay and relocate his business to Ascalon.

>>49177081
Business ventures with him? sure besides it would be nice to see little Alain every now and then but maybe not so close to home least people think he looks like us

>>49177081

Pretty sure Froggy's horse trading business has him dealing with the Bedouin. He'd be over the moon to have a branch office in Ascalon, or relocate as this anon put it.

Iovetta smut when?

I'VE BEEN WAITING TWO FUCKING YEARS FOR THIS SHIT DAMMIT

>>49177304
>quests ends at the wedding kiss and before smut

>>49177416
This would be the ultimate blue ball.

>>49177304
Just how impressed and flattered must she be ?

He took over a city and crushed armies so he could marry her. Well that and the rank, prestige and fame.

File: behold-a-satan.jpg (154 KB, 636x500)

154 KB JPG

>>49177416
Hi satan

>>49177455
pretty fucking flattered I'd say

>>49177455
I think she'd just go straight to being a humanitarian and break out the bread and soup for the common people.

God's work and all.

Fuck.

Nabil might still be in the area.

>>49177537
not before we fuck her for like a week straightall day everyday allover our chambers and then introducing her to chiri for even more lewds.

Then we go and confess the entire thing on sunday at church

Waifu is in Zengi's court now!

You guys know HF just bailed right?

>>49177655
Uh, no. Did he give an update on twitter or something?

>>49177655
I call bullshit

>>49177706
twitter is silent

Back, give me a sec

Hey HF, can the new arc be titled "Plus Ultra"?

File: [Heroic Laughter Intensifies].gif (210 KB, 595x842)

210 KB GIF

>>49177971
>plus ultra

oh god I knew Hugo and Solomon reminded me of someone Hugo even broke his arm

They came down the Jaffa Road in company. It was a palanquin transported by burly slaves, the cabin hidden by heavy, rich curtains covered in a patterned weaves, beads clicking from the end. Before it rode a company of holy knights, tabards of the Temple of Solomon fluttering in the chill wind, necks covered in maille and heads hooded with nasal-barred, high domed helms. Beside the chieftain of the holy knights rode Hodierna, her golden hair bound up beneath an ornate, white silk head scarf that draped down around her shoulders. Her form clad in a tight dress of gold with white lace upon the bodice. She rode side-saddle, heavy skirts spilling down the side of her horse like a curtain.

Behind her upon a horse rode young Prince Baldwin, whose cousin Constance shared his saddle. He wore a golden circlet around his brow, hair swept back to show a proud young face.

In the train of the palanquin their came the Ramlan folks. Lady Unna, mother to Sir Hugo, dressed as finely as a high born woman, carrying across her chest a dark skinned babe. Etain, wife of Solomon, who had another dark child in her arms. Both the children belonged to Etain and Solomon, a twin boy and girl called 'Abraham' and 'Margaret'. Ancient Ibrahim rode behind them with the white-haired yet young falconer, Portia, assisting him. Ibrahim's wizened face was hidden deep into a fur lined hood. All dressed for warmth save Portia herself, who rode in tunic and breeches, white hair uncovered and rolling in the wind.

Common soldiers marched escort around the train.

You stood in the gate waiting. Friends above on the wall cheered, Maggie's hand flying up to catch the eye of her old friend. Mohmed calling to his aged senior. Solomon stood beside you, eyes misting with tears for the sight of his wife and children, while Hugo squirmed opposite, flustered at the sight of his mother's grinning face. Behind you under the murder hole of the gate, Melisende waited for her sisters with Mathilde at her side. Your sister had become Melisende's constant companion and, you thought, her sole confidant since she had been separated from her sisters.

The royals were first to arrive, and a page boy helped Hodierna dismount. She looked to you with a fond smile.

"Lord Ascalon," the beautiful woman knelt before you, her skirts pooling outward.

"None of that, Hod," you said, urging her up to her feet. She rose with grace, and stepped aside. Prince Baldwin rushed by to be reunited with his mother, but stomped himself, and turned to you with a look of dignity.

"Lord Ascalon," he dipped a bow, then did the same for Hugo, "Sir Hugo," he said. Hugo stepped aside and the boy rushed over into his mother's arms.

"My darling prince," she said, kissing him around the cheeks, making the boy blush and squirm for her public display motherly affection. Constance gave Hugo a shy little curtsy before joining her aunt.

The palanquin was settled down, the slaves stepping away as the curtains were drawn back with a click of amber beads. With one long leg at a time Ioveta slipped out.

She stood almost to your chin, her honey-blonde hair tied back in a single thick braid. She wore a fur stole of white, a dress of blue, her brow adorned with golden circlet. Across her nose she had the faintest dusting of freckles. Her hands were clad in white moleskin gloves. She tucked back a stray curl, dimples rising on her cheeks as she fought a blushing smile. The sight of her made your heart skip a beat.

> bow to the princess
> kiss her
> write-in

>suddenly, HF Cunégondes the shit out of us

>>49178352
>> write-in

Bow, sweep her off her feet and kiss her so as to make every other woman before us envyious

>>49178352
>>49178387
Yes why not.

We've earned this outburst.

>>49178352
> bow to the princess

People are not suppose to know yet.

>>49178352
>> bow to the princess

>>49178424
>>49178387
we are at the finishing line. Would be a dumb thing to trip just before it.

File: IMG_1179.png (109 KB, 300x300)

109 KB PNG

>>49178352
>With one long leg at a time Ioveta slipped out.
>She stood almost to your chin, her honey-blonde hair tied back in a single thick braid. She wore a fur stole of white, a dress of blue, her brow adorned with golden circlet. Across her nose she had the faintest dusting of freckles. Her hands were clad in white moleskin gloves. She tucked back a stray curl, dimples rising on her cheeks as she fought a blushing smile. The sight of her made your heart skip a beat.


Holy shit did Iovetta just go from Hot to fucking Bombshell in the last year?

> write-in
>Stare dumbly

>>49178352
>> bow to the princess

Not public yet, hold yer horses

>All this self-restraint

Wilhelm better literally spend a week in his quarters with Iovetta anon!

>>49178517
Ofcourse he will.

Hey, Since the sisters are here. Is the last princess here as well ?

>>49178517
>shitters to the last

Iovetta digs showy displays of affection, in fact she confessed to us because we decided to talk to her in private first before seeing her off to her family.

>>49178533
Alice? no way she's a glorified trophywife in Antioch and basically a hostage

>>49178547
I meant Morphia.

>>49178352
> stutter like a fool and blink several times at her beauty

>>49178576
maybe?

>>49178594
this I like the Idea that we could play this as being the one woman who can make will lose his composure

>>49178352
> write-in

Bow, smile dumbly and make it known to her that she looks fucking gorgeous

>>49178352
>>49178486
>>49178594
>>49178639
>>49178679
> "Oh my... oh my... GOODNESS!"

>>49178707
>taking different writeins as the same vote

>>49178817
pobody's nerfjetvc

>>49178817
>not letting the waifu get to you for a moment before regaining your composure and following etiquette

Fucking Theodore get out REEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

Does Tancred still endure?

File: Quot+twins+they+were+quot(...).jpg (867 KB, 1280x1987)

867 KB JPG

>>49178870

You bow low to her, and then when you are bent, look up to her with one eye, a grin slipping out. Your arms shoot up around her waist and a laugh explodes from her lips as you hoist her up into the air, so that now it was reversed, and your head came only to her chin. And you lowered her down so that your mouths could meet, and your lips formed into a breathless kiss as her arms wrapped around your head, sliding down around your neck as she slid down to your chest, until she was back on her feet but still slow to pull away.

"My Judith," you say into her hair, breathing in the very smell of her, your whole body warm and golden.

"Wil," she murmured into the crook of your neck, her lips brushing your stubble.

You break apart to the applause of those watching. Hugo, Franz, Solomon, they grinned like fools as others looked on in dumb surprise. And when you saw Solomon's hand upon Hugo's shoulder and Franz give you a sly wink, your heart gave a sudden, sorrowful pang. You imagined two others standing with them, smiling just as broadly, Welf blushing while Orlando would be whistling. What would Welf have stuttered at you in this moment? What congratulations would Orlando have made?

You turned back to your blushing bride. Ioveta looked up at you, biting happily her bottom lip. How you'd like nothing more than to kiss her again.

Instead you pulled away, sweeping your arm toward the Ascalon gate. "Welcome to my city," you said.

The others dismounted. At once Unna was upon her son and pulled him to her breast. "A knight, my boy is a knight!" she cried. Etain handed off her wiggling brats to Old Ibrahim, and then a moment later launched herself into her husband's arms for a soul sucking kiss that was most certainly unChristian. The guests came in and through the gate as applause went up from the walls, and your road toward the citadel garlanded even in this winter month.

Ioveta walked her arm in yours, the two of you leading this sudden procession. She leaned against your arm with a look of content bliss upon her face.

"We shall be married quickly," she said.

"I hope so," you said.

"I have much I want to share with you," she said, that smile she gave up to you hiding a playful thought.

"I as well," you said, your heart going thump-thump-thump.
-

The talk of a wedding was taking hold all through the city and the garrisoned forces, but not just a wedding for the new Lord of Ascalon. Talk had it his brother was to be wed too, bound in marriage with the beautiful dark swordswoman he had led to the light of Christ. What joyous news after the days of battle and grief.

The question was, which would be first?

> Hugo
> Wilhelm

>>49178944
> Wilhelm

>>49178944
> Wilhelm

I can imagine Hugo wanting something quiet and more private after all the grandeur is done.

>>49178920
>>49178944
>Will X Iove the worst best kept secret in Jerusalem

> Wilhelm

Because goddamit WIll's was the greater endeavour we litreally went to war for her

Hugo just bitched and moaned at us to let him marry her

File: ghost fistbump woo woo woo.gif (15 KB, 469x200)

15 KB GIF

>>49178920
>You imagined two others standing with them, smiling just as broadly, Welf blushing while Orlando would be whistling. What would Welf have stuttered at you in this moment? What congratulations would Orlando have made?

>>49178944
Goddamnit Welf and Orlando.

>>49178944
> Hugo

>>49178944
> Wilhelm

remember our wedding vows, everyone!
Wil: "Fullmetal Alchemist.
Io: "FULLMETAL ALCHEMIST"

Guys, we should make Iovetta a judge

>>49179124
>not
say Wil?
yes Iove?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cjnllliXQT4

We should write to Adhelheid and inform her that she no longer has to fear about wardship for Iovetta as we will take over. Neither shall she fear her spirituality as Wilhelm will make sure she calls out to god every night.

It had been a mosque once. Now it was called the church of St Walpurga. It had the simplicity of most mosques, a high domed roof, a large open chamber upon which benches had been set. It was no great cathedral, but such things would be built in time.

Within that humble church were the ranks of nobility and friends.

You stood waiting at the newly placed altar, Hugo beside you, Father Desmond overlooking you both. In the ranks before you were your friends and companions, your family. Sabeen stood, with Hugo's mother Unna, both of them nervous from excitement. Solomon had Etain in hand, while Maggie hefted Etain's children on either shoulder. Mathilde looked up at you as if she was going to weep, but her tears were held at bay even if her lips wobbled and nose twitched.

The nobles were all the remaining rich and powerful in the city. Hugh of Jaffa, Gerard of Sidon, William Bures, Elias of Maine. Some friends, others not. The chief missing suspect was Raymond of Tripoli, who had left, he said, to defend his people but had made no secret his growing dislike of you and your ways.

Hodierna led the brigade of nobles, and she shared with you a secret little smile.

From outside they entered arm-in-arm, Ioveta and Melisende. Attention turned to the sisters. They were near to equal height, and though Melisende was near twice Ioveta's age they were both of clear and clean long legged beauty. They came up together, and Melisende gave Ioveta's hand to yours. The queen stepped away, to the opposite side of the altar.

Father Desmond raised his hand and began in Latin, "Do you, Wilhelm of Ascalon, take Ioveta of House Rethel, daughter of Baldwin and sister of Melisende, as your wife, to keep in sickness and in health, in fortune and poverty, until death do you part?"

>>49179268
that is without a doubt the trolliest shit ever

I approve

File: spongebob-walking-like-a-(...).gif (3.95 MB, 320x240)

3.95 MB GIF

>>49179242

"I do," you said.

"And do you, Ioveta of-"

"I do!" she said, and flustered under Desmond's frown and the chuckle of the crowd. He finished his call, asking off her obedience and loyalty, and all the rest, to which she replied in humbler voice, "I do."

"Then I say, under the eyes of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, you are husband and wife."

To which you took her chin in your hand, and kissed her softly to the applause of the crowd. Your wife, your love, Ioveta.
-
You were lead back to the citadel, to your home, to the shouts and well wishes of the soldiery and the crowd. A feast had been made ready, and some had begun to celebrate without you, but all your anxious energy was on your bride, your wife on your arm. She seemed too bubble with nervous delight as you walked up the steps into the citadel. Servants bowed deep before the entryway of the citadel, men-at-arms gave rough salutes.

You looked down at Ioveta, and she looked up at you with lips parted, eyes wide.

Now the question was, should you join the feast first, or take make your marriage official first?

> go to the feast
> fuck the feast, well, not the feast...

>>49179301
> fuck the feast, well, not the feast...

They can start the eating without us.

>>49179301
Chiri prepare the chamber!

>>49179283
>>49179301
no Papa Wil?

goddamit HF

> go to the feast

for all of ten minutes, speaking of only eat what others eat and only drink what chiri serves us

>>49179301
> Firstly send an assassin after Raymond of Tripoli, We need to nip this in the bud
> Then go to the feast

>>49179301
> play Johnny B. Goode

>>49179347
No, Raymond's a friend of ours.

>>49179301
> go to the feast
Let's introduce our waifu to our famalam.

>>49179347
Not raymond. He stills owes a debt to hugo.

>>49179332
There's a reason he isn't present.

>>49179347
murderhobo please, Raymond can kill all he wants up in Tripoli we just have to allow him to kill more Muslims the next time he's in town

>>49179301
> go to the feast

be very select in what we eat and drink though only from Chiri

leave after about five minutes, barely make it to our chambers before fucking Iovetta for the next week straight

File: epGM8G.gif (1.38 MB, 320x213)

1.38 MB GIF

>>49179369
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VoAfb3f04mo

>>49179369
motherfucker

I wanted shove this in his salty fucking face

>>49179301
> go to the feast

>We're about to get that 'taster of royal cunts' bonus for doing all the sisters.

HF I swear if you ruin this I will burn this thread to the ground

>Theme for the Wedding night

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ikf8hnlFXAI

>>49179447
Fourice-crowned?

>>49179488
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJw8efaDgl4

https://youtu.be/uU1taFr17QU

>>49179470
>inb4 Hashashins kill Ioveta while we fuck her for the first time

>>49179514
I will murder you anon

Tables had been set in the broad hall, and you took your place at the head with your bride beside you. The guests came in as servants brought out jugs of wine and beer, plates of food. A roasted pig was the centre piece of the table, but fish stuffed with fruit, chicken and goat, beef and other delicacies were on display. Men cut slices of meat for women companions, dishing them out as jugglers and acrobats performed for amusement. One contortionist morphed her form into different letters of the alphabet, spelling out a dirty joke for the ribald laughter of the literate.

Hugh clapped your shoulder. "Well done, Wil, well done," he said with a wink for his young cousin beside you.

Other men congratulated you. Elias gave you grudging respect, and William Bures did as well.

Your wine was poured by Chihirizahd, dressed in servant garb. "Your chamber is ready when you want it," she murmured into your ear.

A toast was raised to you and your bride, who blushed deeply behind the rim of her goblet. A troubadour struck up a dancing tune, that a noble couple soon took up, other dancers took to the floor while others remained seated, to talk and feast. It was a happy affair, all animosity set aside at least for now.

Sabeen and Una were in deep conversation, while Hugo had been taken aside by Franz, the two sharing a skin of ale. They saw you watching and raised to you a toast. To think it had been little more than two years since the three of you had arrived in this land, and how the world had changed around you.

You looked back to your bride. She was sitting in silence, her cup in her lap. The candle light seemed to give her hair an ethereal glow, her cheeks a warm, golden halo. When she saw you watching her she brought up her lightly dimpled chin.

"Shall we stay, or go?" she asked, her vice taken with a thick suggestion, her hand exploring the cloth of your leggings.

> stay
> go

>>49179514
We're gonna get Purple Wedding'd

>>49179470
>everyones celebrating
>guard is down
>good food good wine
>how about some drugs

Say. Hashish

>>49179537
> go

Based chiri

>>49179537
>> go

>>49179537
> shall we stay or shall we go... that gives me an idea for a song

File: 1469679326993.png (283 KB, 424x756)

283 KB PNG

>>49179575
>Centuries later in a dusty bookstore Freddy mercury purchases a small book
>it's titled Bohemian rhapsody: a collection of thrilling bedtales its full of lewd

Welp, we're tripping all the death flags, so it's been fun playing as Wilhelm with y'all, everybody!

>>49179557
>As soon as Ioveta arrived, Chiri changed masters

she Hashashin now faggot