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Rolled 4 (1d10)

>>1048312
DEUS VULT!

Rolled 6 (1d10)

>>1048312

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Rolled 10 (1d10)

>>1048312
I will roll again so we can fucking move on

You deel like your abilities have grown quite a bit. Still, there is a final little something that seems to be missing. Your cooking is amazing, but still... It looks like you will have to understand one final lesson. But what would that be?
[Your cooking mastery has risen to 99/100]
The sun is rising as you finally fall into your bed, tired beyond belief. You wake up again around noon. Some lunch would be nice. Or breakfast? Well, whatever. You want some food.
After lunch, you decide that you have a whole day ahead of you. A half, at least. How do you want to spend it?
>Ask for possible political tasks. There has to be something, right?
>Henry told us he would like a hand or two to help him. Let's see if we can find some menials (or an apprentice?) for him.
>The plan of integrating the vikings is going pretty well. Maybe you should develop a follow-up plan with someone. (Who?)
>You are doing pretty well on horseback, but there still is stuff to learn. Why don't you try to improve further?
>You're going to get a sibling. You should make something for them. (What?)
>You feel like a walk. Why not go out and enjoy the day? Maybe you even find something of interest.
>Talk to (who?) about (what?)
>Train in (what?)
>You should go to the kitchen. There's a final lesson to be learned.
>We're officially a knight now, but this doesn't mean we should slack off. Let's get some martial routine. (General? A certain thing?)
>See how Damien is doing with his training. He seemed very eager about riding.
>Damien is doing very well with his training. We should reward him by making him into a squire to (Yourself? Someone else?).
>Being a proficient dancer is nice, but being a masterful dancer would be better. Let's work on this.
>We are well proficient in the art of dancing. But art is a wide field. Why not try our hand at something new? (What?)
>The food reserves have grown, but more can't hurt, right? Let's get something. (Hunt? Gather?)
>Visit a production site. It will be good for morale, which will be good for production output.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1048379
>You should go to the kitchen. There's a final lesson to be learned.
>Talk to (who?) about (what?)
Get Annabelle to cook with us. The final lesson of cooking is to love doing it and have fun Also so we can get some sauce or cream on her face somewhere, then wipe it off with our finger then eat it

>>1048379
>>See how Damien is doing with his training. He seemed very eager about riding.

>>1048379
>You should go to the kitchen. There's a final lesson to be learned.

>>1048385
>>1048489
Alright. Roll me 2d20+1 for your effort. Best of three at a current amount of 31 free rerolls.
You might want to spend a thought about unlocking epic mastery for your cooking. Price is at ten free rerolls.

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Rolled 10, 12 + 1 = 23 (2d20 + 1)

>>1048510
We nee to get this dice roll and give up 10 rerolls to get ebin mastery?

Rolled 20, 11 + 1 = 32 (2d20 + 1)

>>1048510

Rolled 6, 10 = 16 (2d20)

>>1048510

>>1048524
From this roll, you get the regular mastery, which gives you a massive bonus to all future rolls.
The ten rerolls give you the epic mastery, which gives you an autosuccess whenever you use it.

>>1048531
>>1048526
You guise want to spend 10 rerolls for ebin mastery?

>>1048562
on cooking?
Fuck No!

>Hello, Jean. How are you doing today?
Annabelle asks after you took a seat and took the cup of peppermint tea that Marine has just finished preparing.
You smile and nod.
>Pretty good, actually. Do you have some time for me?
Annabelle nods in response.
>Absolutely. How are we going to spend the day?
You smile. Today, you are going to surprise her.
>You have taught me about so much already. And we took quite a few lessons together. But not once have I taught you about something.
Annabelle is now looking at you with anticipation.
>As you might know, I take great pleasure in cooking. Maybe you want to join me? We might make something nice together?
Now, you seem to have surprised your bethrothed. But she nods.
>Absolutely. What are we making, Jean?
You shrug.
>Whatever you would like, my love.
Annabelle blushes and Marine starts to giggle while Maria is stuttering about the 'indecency' again. You reach out and she takes your arm. Together, you head down to the kitchen, where you sit down at a table and smile at her.
>So, did you decide what to make yet?
Annabelle nods and tells you she would like to...
>Make something big for everyone. A noble should never forget about his people.
>Something special for a few persons only. This way, you can put in some extra attention.
>A nice little dinner for the two of you only. Food should be prepared with love all the time, shouldn't it?
>Something else? (Write in)
[Whatever you choose, you have a epic success at this, unlocking your mastery. Each decision will give you a different route of mastery, though.]
Also, do you want to spend ten free rerolls on the epic mastery? Your rolls would get a +5 modifier with a basic mastery, while your epic mastery would give you an autosuccess for every DC 15 and under. The price is 10 free rerolls, you have got 32 at the moment.

>>1048593
Okay so it looks like our choices are being a master of; mass food production of decent or better quality, fairly high quality but low quantity production or of being able to make a few pieces of perfection.


In light of our role as a ruler that cares for our people I would argue we should go for,
>Make something big for everyone. A noble should never forget about his people.
but I can see arguments for the other two like being able to produce a higher quality of food for guests or special occasions and thus will support choosing the second option.


Also, yes please for the epic mastery. We rarely use the re-rolls and I see no reason not to be the best at everything possible.


However I would like to wait for another anon before acting on this vote if possible OP?

>>1048593
>Something special for a few persons only. This way, you can put in some extra attention.
Activate dank dinner parties

>>1048593
>Something special for a few persons only. This way, you can put in some extra attention.
Yes to Epic mastery.

>>1048628
I think we will go for this one then, OP. Assuming this anon also wants the Epic mastery?

>>1048593
>>Make something big for everyone. A noble should never forget about his people.
No Mastery

We need to save that for actually important things like fighting or leading armys.

>>1048665
Except we have 32 of the things! This is a worthwhile investment given how frequently we do cooking and process our hunting's returns.

If you want to save them for what you consider valid you must realise that we are unlikely to get into a war in the near future. Given all the precautions taken in defence of our lands, no one will consider threatening us in the near future without a significant buildup of forces we would find out about.

>>1048674
We have a cook for this, we only cook so much because anons keep needlessly voting for it instead of something important and 30 isn't all that much.
We only get three skills to epic mastery right now and thats if we want to risk only having 2 rerolls to fall back on.
We'd be better off putting those points into medical or fighting or fuck, even dancing right now, not the first shiny skill that we unlock for epic mastery.

>>1048628
>>1048644
>>1048645
>>1048665
>>1048674
So did you agree on the middle option and the epic mastery? At least it seems to me like this.

>>1048699
If we keep rolling like we're doing we'll get those rerolls back in no time.

>>1048704
Okay, I will go for ebin mastery as well

>>1048717
That kind of thinking is gonna get us killed when shit hits the fan.
Its not gonna stay peaceful like this forever.

Alright, writing for epic mastery and medium food sizes.
>>1048731
Don't take it personal, Ron. I had to make up the epic mastery because all of you rolled way too well, anyway

You and Annabelle spend some hours preparing a medium sized dish. This way, you can give a bit more attention to detail. And you suppose Missa, Duncan and the others will like it.
It's great fun to teach others how to cook and motivates you to put in the extra bit of effort. Finally, you feel like you learned about what was missing.
[Cooking mastery unlocked: Artisan. You can now prepared big amounts of food with incredible detail. Cooking is an art in itself, right?]
[Epic mastery of cooking unlocked. You can now claim automatic successes on every cooking attempt with a medium-hard or lower difficulty.] You have 22 free rerolls left.
While stirring a sauce, Annabelle isn't at her full amount of attention for a second and some leaves the pot, leaving little spots in both of your spaces.
>Oh, I'm so sorry, Jean. I didn't-
Annabelle says until she is silenced by your lips on her cheek, kissing away the sauce.
>Don't waste valuable food, my love.
you say and continue to kiss away the spots from her face. After you are done, Annabelle smiles cheekily and returns the favour.
>Mmmh... this tastes so good, Jean.
she moans.
>But do you know what tastes just as good?
Annabelle hugs you and kisses you deeply. She's right, this is wonderful.
After some time, you resume your cooking, as the boiling of the sauce reminds you of your original purpose of coming here.
Your timing is great and you manage to finish the meal just as the cooks come in to prepare dinner.
>Would you mind keeping it on the stove for a few more minutes and serve it to me and my council for dinner?
you ask Antoine. He nods.
>Absolutely. May I ask what you made? This smells incredible. I'm not sure if I could recreate it.
You tell him a few things about the food you just prepared, then you lead Annabelle to the dining hall.
>Thank you for this wonderful day, Jean. I feel like I learned a lot.
Annabelle says and hugs you again.
The hall starts to fill and the cooks bring out the food. Everyone at your high table gets some of the food you and Annabelle prepared.
>Lovely. Just lovely~
Missa says.
>Wonderful, indeed. You did great, Mylord.
Duncan adds. Maurice and Lucius find great words of praise, too.
Annabelle just smiles at you happily. Looks like you did the exactly right thing.
Dinner is over now, but you don't feel like sleeping yet. After all, you've only been up half a day so far. Just another hour. Two at best.
How do you want to end the day?
>Go out to the tower and watch the sky. You might want a weather forecast. Also, it's pretty.
>End it with a good book. Nothing like a warm fire, a comfortable chair and a good book, right? (Write in the topic you want to read about)
>Maybe (who?) is still up. We could (do what?/talk about which topic?).
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1048805
>Go out to the tower and watch the sky. You might want a weather forecast. Also, it's pretty.

>>1048805
>Go out to the tower and watch the sky. You might want a weather forecast. Also, it's pretty.

You decide to head up to the tower and get yourself a good look of the sky. After all, you might want to know how the weather is going to be in the next few days.
The view is mostly unspectacular this night, since there isn't a single start to see. Thick clouds are blocking the view, like they did pretty often in the last few days. Seems like the rainy days aren't over yet.
Still, you can't complain. It's gotten colder already, but not too cold. Had it been below zero already, the last days would have made quite a few of your roads hardly usable.
>Oh, good evening, Mylord.
You turn around and see Leonore, Damien's mother.
>Good evening, Leonore. What takes you out here?
you ask. She shrugs.
>I couldn't sleep very well. Most mothers can't if they are worried about their children.
You nod understandingly. This is a good reason.
>So, tell me... What bothers you with Damien?
Leonore walks up to you and both of you look towards the horizon for a while.
>He never had it easy. First, the thing with his father drinking, now the fact that he doesn't have much of a father...
She sighs. You give her a smile.
>I am certain that what you did was for the best. Maybe, all of you will be able to make a fresh start someday.
Leonore shrugs.
>I sure hope so, but it's all so difficult. A lot of bad things happened. Especially to Damien. He will never forget these. And I'm not sure if he will ever be able to forgive his father. Even I had trouble with it.
You nod understandingly. This is a very difficult situation, overall.
>I think everything will work out eventually. Maybe you will get together as a family, maybe you will not. But I trust you to make the right decisions. Damien as well.
Leonore wipes away a tear and nods.
>I guess that's right. Still, there is one more thing.
Well, what might this be about? You make a gesture, telling her to continue.
>I... I'm not sure if this is rude towards you, especially after you showed us so much kindness. If it is, please excuse me. I'm just a simple woman from a simple farm.
You smile at her warmly. There's nothing she has to fear. After all, if she tells you what her problems are, you might overcome them together, right?
>It's about Damien. He's just so young and alone, I fear. Of course, there are a lot of people around him, but still... closest to him in age is Lady Annabelle, then you. He doesn't have any friends his age. When I was his age, I had plenty.
She clears her throat a last time.
>I am very thankful about the opportunity you have given to us, but I'm not sure if he will turn out alright without any friends.
Now, she's silent, like you are expected to say something. What do you want to say?
>It was the same with me, when I was his age. Don't you think I turned out alright nontheless?
>You're right. Since he's training to be a squire, we might get another boy his age to train with him. Duncan can take a squire, just like Alphonse can.
>Keep silent. You don't know if there is a good answer to this.

>Well, do you think he should have more time to go down to the village? He should find friends there, right?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1048942
>You're right. Since he's training to be a squire, we might get another boy his age to train with him. Duncan can take a squire, just like Alphonse can.

>>1048944
this

>>1048993
So you want the free time option? I'm not completely sure over there.

>>1049000
Yeah, send out in town to do errands or something and spend a little extra time on his own to make friends or find adventure.

>>1048944
>Well, do you think he should have more time to go down to the village? He should find friends there, right?

>Well, what do you think? Would it help if he had more time to go down to the village? I could send him on errands or something and give him a generous amount of time, so he can make friends and such.
Leonore listens closely and nods.
>I think this might be helpful. At least it's the best solution I can think of. Thank you, Mylord.
You make an appeasing gesture.
>Don't mention it. Just doing the right thing. When I was his age, there weren't many kids my age, too.
Leonore nods, but still can't stop thanking you.
>Thank you, Mylord. How can I make this up to you?
You try to tell her she doesn't have to, but she will have nothing of it.
Looks like you will ask for something. What will it be?
>How is your tailoring coming along? I could need (what?)
>Well, let's just keep it at you owing me a favour sometimes.
>Well, I don't know. What could I reasonably take for something this simple?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1049303
>How is your tailoring coming along? I could need (what?)
Make some baby clothes for our brother
There's one sure way she could make this up to us for parenting her kid

>>1049303
>How is your tailoring coming along? I could need (what?)
Something for our future little brother.

>>1049303
>>How is your tailoring coming along? I could need (what?)
clothes for baby sibling and fur lined baby blanket

>Well, there is one thing that I might need help with. Could you please keep this to yourself for now?
Leonore nods and you continue your explanation.
>Well, as far as I know, I will get a sibling in around four or five months. I don't know if it's going to be a boy or a girl, but I would like something like cushions or a blanket for them. Or could you do baby clothes?
You see Leonore planning already, before agreeing on this.
>This sounds great. Congratulations, by the way. Since we don't know if it's a boy or a girl, how do clothes in your House's colors sound?
Well, this seems acceptable. The mostly blue and green de Labendai crest, an elk skull adorned with evergreen leaves would make a fine piece of clothing.
>This would be great, Leonore. Thank you.
She curtsys and replies
>That's the least I can do for you. If I got the time, I might possibly make two sets of clothing. One for work days, one for weekends.
You talk a bit about clothes and tailoring for some more minutes, before finally returning to your respective quarters.
The morning comes quickly, but you are used to that by now.
How do you want to spend your day?
[cont.]

>Ask for possible political tasks. There has to be something, right?
>Henry told us he would like a hand or two to help him. Let's see if we can find some menials (or an apprentice?) for him.
>The plan of integrating the vikings is going pretty well. Maybe you should develop a follow-up plan with someone. (Who?)
>You are doing pretty well on horseback, but there still is stuff to learn. Why don't you try to improve further?
>Well, you got the clothes and such going for your sibling. But you should make something yourself. Why not ask someone for help with crafting a thing? (Write in what you want to make and what kind of craft you would want to learn)
>You feel like a walk. Why not go out and enjoy the day? Maybe you even find something of interest.
>Talk to (who?) about (what?)
>Train in (what?)
>Annabelle had a lot of fun learning to cook. Why don't we help her learn more?
>We're officially a knight now, but this doesn't mean we should slack off. Let's get some martial routine. (General? A certain thing?)
>See how Damien is doing with his training. He seemed very eager about riding.
>Damien is doing very well with his training. We should reward him by making him into a squire to (Yourself? Someone else?).
>Being a proficient dancer is nice, but being a masterful dancer would be better. Let's work on this.
>We are well proficient in the art of dancing. But art is a wide field. Why not try our hand at something new? (What?)
>The food reserves have grown, but more can't hurt, right? Let's get something. (Hunt? Gather?)
>Visit a production site. It will be good for morale, which will be good for production output.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1049456
>Train in Tactics and strategy

>>1049484
Seconding.

>>1049456
>>We're officially a knight now, but this doesn't mean we should slack off. Let's get some martial routine. (General? A certain thing?)

>>1049484
>>1049499
Alright, roll me 1d20+1 for this. Best of three, as always.

Rolled 18 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1049781
Tactical roll engaged

Rolled 5 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1049781

Rolled 1 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1049781

>>1049797
YEEEEAAAA-
>>1049801
FUUUIUUUUUCKKK

>>1049797
>>1049800
>>1049801
Alright, an effective 19 it is. Writing.

>Duncan? Can you teach me more about warfare and such? I learned a good few things last time.
Duncan nods and sits down on a barrel, offering you the seat beside him.
>Well, there are quite a few things we haven't worked on yet. What would you like me to teach you about?
Well, this is a good question. What do you want to learn about? (Pick two, you have an active success on this choice.)
>Additional offensive tactics. We need to crush our opponents or they will come back.
>Additional defensive tactics. I want to bring everybody back home alive and well.
>Recruiting more men. Duncan will be recruiting the militia for us, but there might be a day where will will have to recruit people ourselves.
>All of these are small-troop tactics. I need to be proficient with bigger troops, too. The province will grow in size and manpower again.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1049855
>Additional defensive tactics. I want to bring everybody back home alive and well.
>Recruiting more men. Duncan will be recruiting the militia for us, but there might be a day where will will have to recruit people ourselves.

>>1049855
>Defensive
>Offensive
With a focus on siege. If our hold does get invaded it will definetely turn into a siege.

>>1049930
Knowing offensive tactic means that we also learn about to counter said offensive tactic

>>1049927
>>1049930
Well, guys? Looks like defense is decided on. But what is your second decision?

>>1050022
>Recruiting more men. Duncan will be recruiting the militia for us, but there might be a day where will will have to recruit people ourselves.
>>1049941
We need to learn how to be a leader and inspire people

>>1049855
>>Additional offensive tactics. We need to crush our opponents or they will come back.
>>Additional defensive tactics. I want to bring everybody back home alive and well.

>Well, first I will have to learn about defensive tactics. With numbers like ours, we can't risk losing a single man.
you say. Duncan nods.
>Absolutely. Well, let's see what I can tell you.
During the next few hours, you learn about defensive formations, placement of certain troop types, avoiding ambushes and many other types of knowledge.
After taking a short break for lunch, you are back at the training grounds again.
>Well, what should I teach you next, Mylord?
Duncan asks. You shrug. How about...
>Recruitment and such. Getting the people to join me, keeping them at my side, no matter our situation, keeping their morale high...
Your castellan nods.
>Very well. You've got the right mindset for this anyway. I knew for sure after your first talk with Missa. A man with a speech talent like yours should have no trouble keeping numbers and morale high.
Until you leave for dinner, you talk about possibilities to improve your troops motivation, lower the enemy's, recruiting troops, making the opponents desert their post, making use of turncoats, finding allies and much more.
>Well, looks like you are doing well at this subject. Soon, there will be nothing left that I could teach you.
Well, this sounds good. But also not too good on the other hand. You don't have any military advisor or teacher more qualified than Duncan. If he reaches the limit of his knowledge, you will do so, too.
But this is a thing to worry about another day. Dinner is ready, after all.
In the morning, Duncan approaches you.
>Mylord, I think you might remember, but I want to give you notice that we are supposed to return to Lord Sang-Valois' lands in exactly seven days. Until then, all the preparations should be finished.
Well, this means you got another week back at home. How do you want to first of these seven days?
[cont.]

>Ask for possible political tasks. There has to be something, right?
>We should prepare for the next three months. Gather what we want to bring with us, inform the people we want to take in time...
>Henry told us he would like a hand or two to help him. Let's see if we can find some menials (or an apprentice?) for him.
>The plan of integrating the vikings is going pretty well. Maybe you should develop a follow-up plan with someone. (Who?)
>You are doing pretty well on horseback, but there still is stuff to learn. Why don't you try to improve further?
>Well, you got the clothes and such going for your sibling. But you should make something yourself. Why not ask someone for help with crafting a thing? (Write in what you want to make and what kind of craft you would want to learn.)
>You feel like a walk. Why not go out and enjoy the day? Maybe you even find something of interest.
>Talk to (who?) about (what?)
>Train in (what?)
>Annabelle had a lot of fun learning to cook. Why don't we help her learn more?
>We're officially a knight now, but this doesn't mean we should slack off. Let's get some martial routine. (General? A certain thing?)
>See how Damien is doing with his training. He seemed very eager about riding.
>Damien is doing very well with his training. We should reward him by making him into a squire to (Yourself? Someone else?).
>Being a proficient dancer is nice, but being a masterful dancer would be better. Let's work on this.
>We are well proficient in the art of dancing. But art is a wide field. Why not try our hand at something new? (What?)
>The food reserves have grown, but more can't hurt, right? Let's get something. (Hunt? Gather?)
>Visit a production site. It will be good for morale, which will be good for production output.
>Duncan can teach us more about tactics and warfare still. We should take whatever amount of knowledge we can.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1050179
>>Henry told us he would like a hand or two to help him. Let's see if we can find some menials (or an apprentice?) for him.

Well, guys. It's 2:23 over here. I'll call it for tonight. I should be back in around twelve hours.
Until then, feel free to vote.
Good night and thanks for playing.

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>>1050179
>Henry told us he would like a hand or two to help him. Let's see if we can find some menials (or an apprentice?) for him.

>>1050226
>>1052386
Hey guys, I'm back. Roll me 4d20+1 for your success in finding menials for Henry. Best of three.

Rolled 6, 8, 14, 4 + 1 = 33 (4d20 + 1)

>>1053512

Rolled 1, 13, 13, 2 + 1 = 30 (4d20 + 1)

And a second roll, so we can continue eventually.

Rolled 18, 12, 14, 19 + 1 = 64 (4d20 + 1)

And a third roll. Hopefully, this one is better than the first ones.

>Hello, Henry. Since the weather is somewhat more agreeable today, do you think we should see if we found any suitable workers to aid you?
you greet your birdmaster, who nods.
>Good morning, Mylord. This sounds like a good idea. Maybe we will find someone suitable. By the way, how many people are we talking about?
You think about this question and make a quick calculation. Luckily, you are pretty proficient at anything financial by now.
>I think four or five of them should be possible without too much trouble. If we even find this many.
Henry puts down a raven that he just fed and heads down to his chambers. After he returns with a heavy, waxed cloak, he says
>We can go now. But I need this cloak whenever it's getting cold by now. I'm not the youngest person around anymore.
You get on your horses and make your way to the village.
First, you find a boy feeding some geese.
>Come here, all of you. Don't worry, there's enough for all of you.
Henry nods.
>This boy seems good enough. He would make a nice apprentice. I can tell from the way he is talking to the geese.
Well, you are not sure how to deal with this. What do you want to do?
>Trust Henry's judgement. He should know.
>Talk to the boy first. It might be less... overwhelming this way.
>Let's start with the workers first. He's not old enough to do all of a menial's work yet.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1053667
>Talk to the boy first. It might be less... overwhelming this way.

>>1053667
>Talk to the boy first. It might be less... overwhelming this way.

>Hello, my boy. How are you doing today?
you ask as you approach the boy. He looks up and immediately lowers his head again, nearly losing his balance.
You catch him and help him to find his balance again.
>Mylord. I'm honored. How can I help you today?
he asks. Well, he surely has manners and such.
>I just saw how you were feeding these geese. Are you this good with all animals?
you ask. He shrugs.
>I can't say for sure, Mylord. We only have geese and chickens. But these are pretty alright.
He stops for a second and pats a goose on the head.
>Well, this sounds good so far. I need somebody who is good with birds.
He looks at you surprisedly. Looks like he never expected to be of use to someone your rank.
How do you want to present the possible task to him?
>Ask him if he would like to try working with other kinds of birds.
>Have Henry explain the task he would be needed for.
>Ask if he has any siblings or such. We can't take away an only child from his family.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1053730
>Ask if he has any siblings or such. We can't take away an only child from his family.
Ask to talk with his parents before making him an offer they might refuse.

>>1053730
>Ask him if he would like to try working with other kinds of birds.
>Ask if he has any siblings or such. We can't take away an only child from his family.

>Tell me... well, first tell me your name, if you wish.
you say. Actually, you wanted to ask something else, but his name might be important, too.
>My name is Thierry, Mylord.
You nod and continue to ask the question that you wanted to ask initially.
>Tell me, are your parents home? I would like to talk to the about something.
He nods and leads you to the house. It's a simple farm house with only one entrance. On the left side, there is the living space, while the right side holds the stables and such, which are occupied by a few chickens and the geese you saw outside.
At the fireplace, there is a woman, stirring a cauldron full of what your trained nose can immediately identify as a wheat and carrot stew. Filling, but not too tasty. With a few additions, you might make this salvageable.
How do you want to introduce yourself?
>Tell her your name and reason for being here. Better get to the point, you don't want to waste her time. Or yours.
>Tell her your name and ask hers. Common courtesy, right?
>Give her a few hints with the stew. Nothing like a little cooking to break the ice, right?
>Ask Thierry to introduce you. Don't appear too surprisingly.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1053919
>Give her a few hints with the stew. Nothing like a little cooking to break the ice, right?

>>1053919
>Give her a few hints with the stew. Nothing like a little cooking to break the ice, right?

>>1053922
>>1053992
Alright, the automatic success. Writing.

>What a wonderful stew. Wheat and carrots, right?
you ask. The woman turns to you surprisedly and her eyes open wide.
>My- Mylord! Yes, yes this is a wheat and carrot stew, why? How... can I help you?
Well, looks like she was just as surprised as her son. You smile and walk towards her.
>Just a little idea. Do you have some hazelnuts? Those would make a fine addition.
Thierry's mother, so you assume, is speechless. After a few moments, she regains her composure and nods.
>I think so. Let me see...
she takes a ceramic pot from a shelf and looks inside.
>Ideed. There are a few. But I never heard of hazelnuts in a wheat stew.
You instruct her to take a handful and chop them to small bits before adding them.
>Well, I am a pretty good cook myself. Wheat and hazelnuts are a good combination in lots of cakes and other sweets, just like carrots and hazelnuts work well together. Why don't you try it?
The woman nods, adds the hazelnuts and takes a spoonful to taste.
>This is... surprisingly tasty. Thank you, Mylord. Still, you didn't come here to give me cooking advice, right?
You nod and she points to a table with a few chairs around it.
>Where are my manners? Please forgive my rudeness and take a seat.
You follow her invitation and sit down at the table.
>Well, I just was riding through the village with Henry, my birdmaster, when we came upon your son feeding the geese. Since Thierry seems to have a hand at getting along with animals, I thought about hiring him as Henry's apprentice.
The woman nods.
>Well, this is very nice, but I think you should talk about this with my husband. He's at the market with Thierry's older brother.
Well, this is good news. You wouldn't take away an only child from his family. You tell her that you will wait until he returns.
Only a few minutes later, a man comes through the door. He is very similiar to Thierry, so you guess it must be his father.
>Oh, that smells wonderful. What did you make? And... do we have visitors?
he asks before noticing you sitting at the table. Immediately, he bows down in your direction.
>Mylord, welcome to my home. I hope you don't mind that it is somewhat simple. How can we help you?
You smile and tell him about his son and his talent. At first, he is excited, but sobers up soon.
>I understand that this is a great opportunity for my boy, especially since he is my second son, but I'm not sure if we can let him go. There's a lot of work and we four can barely do it. But since we don't have a lot of money, we can't afford hiring a farmhand or something. This might be a problem.
He's right. This is a problem. But not a problem you could not solve.
>I will send you one of my servants to help you. Don't worry about that.
>Well, how does a regular payment sound? You could hire a farmhand with this or use it for whatever needs to be done.
>Well, this is unfortunate. Looks like I will have to look elsewhere.
[cont]

>Well, this is nothing I could not deal with. I'll get you whatever help you need, and (what?) extra. We can't let this boy's talent go to waste.
>I guess this will need a little... financial persuasion. What amount of money would you need to compensate?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1054257
>Well, how does a regular payment sound? You could hire a farmhand with this or use it for whatever needs to be done.

>>1054251
>Well, how does a regular payment sound? You could hire a farmhand with this or use it for whatever needs to be done.

>Well, what about a regular payment then? Some money to hire a farmhand and such.
you ask. The father thinks for a while, before he nods affirmatively.
>I think this is something I can agree upon. Thank you for considering our troubles, Mylord.
You shake hands and wave to Thierry. He joins you at the table, after having watched the stew most of the time.
>How does that sound, Thierry? Do you want to come to my castle and become Henry's apprentice? One day, you might even be a birdmaster yourself.
The boy smiles and nods eagerly.
>Thank you, Mylord. Should I come with you immediately? Because I would have to pack up a few things first...
You shrug.
>It's up to you. I still have some things to deal with in the village, though. I think it would be sufficient if you came tomorrow morning.
You agree upon tomorrow and say goodbye to the family.
Outside, Henry greets you. He has waited with the horses.
>And? Will he join us?
he asks. You nod.
>He will. Tomorrow morning, he will come to the castle and begin his training.
Henry smiles and gets back on his horse.
>Well, this is good news. Now, about those other workers...
You get back in the saddle, too. In the next few hours, you find four more men from the village, all of them labourers without a plot of land to call their own. Henry points them out immediately once he thinks them fit and you go along with his judgement. He's been right before, after all.
The sun is sinking as you return. This day was a fruitful one.
After dinner, you fall into your bed, thinking about the tasks awaiting you tomorrow.
Which would be...
[cont.]

>Ask for possible political tasks. There has to be something, right?
>We should prepare for the next three months. Gather what we want to bring with us, inform the people we want to take in time...
>Let's see how Henry and his new workers are doing.
>The plan of integrating the vikings is going pretty well. Maybe you should develop a follow-up plan with someone. (Who?)
>You are doing pretty well on horseback, but there still is stuff to learn. Why don't you try to improve further?
>Well, you got the clothes and such going for your sibling. But you should make something yourself. Why not ask someone for help with crafting a thing? (Write in what you want to make and what kind of craft you would want to learn.)
>You feel like a walk. Why not go out and enjoy the day? Maybe you even find something of interest.
>Talk to (who?) about (what?)
>Train in (what?)
>Annabelle had a lot of fun learning to cook. Why don't we help her learn more?
>We're officially a knight now, but this doesn't mean we should slack off. Let's get some martial routine. (General? A certain thing?)
>See how Damien is doing with his training. He seemed very eager about riding.
>Damien is doing very well with his training. We should reward him by making him into a squire to (Yourself? Someone else?).
>Being a proficient dancer is nice, but being a masterful dancer would be better. Let's work on this.
>We are well proficient in the art of dancing. But art is a wide field. Why not try our hand at something new? (What?)
>The food reserves have grown, but more can't hurt, right? Let's get something. (Hunt? Gather?)
>Visit a production site. It will be good for morale, which will be good for production output.
>Duncan can teach us more about tactics and warfare still. We should take whatever amount of knowledge we can.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1054506
>>Duncan can teach us more about tactics and warfare still. We should take whatever amount of knowledge we can.

We can finish up here and be ready to learn the newer stuff from the lords armsmaster after we travel.

>>1054506
>Duncan can teach us more about tactics and warfare still. We should take whatever amount of knowledge we can.

>>1054576
>>1054586
Alright. Roll me 1d20+1 for your learning success. Best of three again.
Also, you currently are at 23 of them. Illuminati confirmed...again

Rolled 13 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1054624

>>1054624
By the way, the 23 are free rerolls, not members of the Illuminati.

Rolled 13 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1054624
Tactical rolling

Rolled 5 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1054624

>Hello, Duncan. There still were things you said I could learn from you regarding warfare and such, right?
you ask. Your castellan nods.
>Right. I think I have taught you everything that's important to our size, except for anything regarding the offensive.
That seems about right. Recruiting troops, defending in battles, sieges and such, the 'dirtier' ways of fighting... Only the offense is lacking.
>Well, basically a good offense is about hitting your opponent as hard as you can. Hitting him in the back, hit and run, breaking up his defensive formations...
During the next few hours, you learn all the things Duncan could teach you about military offense.
>I guess that's all. You might want to find yourself a different teacher for everything else.
Duncan says once he finishes his lesson. You nod and thank him.
>Well, this surely is good to know. Still, it would be better if I never had to use it at all.
you say. Duncan agrees.
>That would be better most of the time. But it's a dangerous world out there.
After dinner, you are left with five and a half days of time before having to leave your holdings for the winter. How do you want to spend this half day?
[cont.]

>Ask for possible political tasks. There has to be something, right?
>We should prepare for the next three months. Gather what we want to bring with us, inform the people we want to take in time...
>Let's see how Henry and his new workers are doing.
>The plan of integrating the vikings is going pretty well. Maybe you should develop a follow-up plan with someone. (Who?)
>You are doing pretty well on horseback, but there still is stuff to learn. Why don't you try to improve further?
>Well, you got the clothes and such going for your sibling. But you should make something yourself. Why not ask someone for help with crafting a thing? (Write in what you want to make and what kind of craft you would want to learn.)
>You feel like a walk. Why not go out and enjoy the day? Maybe you even find something of interest.
>Talk to (who?) about (what?)
>Train in (what?)
>Annabelle had a lot of fun learning to cook. Why don't we help her learn more?
>We're officially a knight now, but this doesn't mean we should slack off. Let's get some martial routine. (General? A certain thing?)
>See how Damien is doing with his training. He seemed very eager about riding.
>Damien is doing very well with his training. We should reward him by making him into a squire to (Yourself? Someone else?).
>Being a proficient dancer is nice, but being a masterful dancer would be better. Let's work on this.
>We are well proficient in the art of dancing. But art is a wide field. Why not try our hand at something new? (What?)
>The food reserves have grown, but more can't hurt, right? Let's get something. (Hunt? Gather?)
>Visit a production site. It will be good for morale, which will be good for production output.
>Duncan taught us all he could about warfare and tactics. But still, there must be a way to improve further. Maybe we should ask Alphonse? Or look for a book in our library?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1054895
>>We should prepare for the next three months. Gather what we want to bring with us, inform the people we want to take in time...

You decide that you will have to prepare for the coming months. After all, you will be away from home for most of the winter.
Since any regular escort can hold up to fourty people as you learned from Lord de Pierre's and Lord Belamy's escorts, you don't have to worry about not being able to bring anyone. Still, you should keep the amount of fighters in it somewhat high.
Annabelle and her maids will accompany you in any case, but everything else is up to you.
Who do you want to bring?
>Soldiers. You never know what happens along the way. [You've got thirty soldiers stationed at Saint Michel. Last time, you took ten with you.]
>Lucius or Maurice. One of them should stay at the castle to the very least. Still, it can't hurt to have a second opinion on whatever political thing that might arise, right?
>Duncan. He's our highest ranking fighter, so he should be part of our guard. Still, he's our castellan...
>Some of Henry's workers. You will take ravens with you for whatever messages you have to send. Somebody has to care for them [Henry has four workers and one apprentice, who is unavailable for taking right now.]
>Tuttle. Saint Michel has healers, so it shouldn't be too worrisome if we took him with us, right?
>Missa. She might come in handy every once in a while. Or make new contacts even?
>Damien. He did so very well in his training, he should see some of the world.
>Your father. Since your mother is starting to get incredibly moody, he might be happy to get away from her pregnant temper. Still, would mother like this too much...?
>Ulf and Miroslav. Why not, actually? They don't have work at the moment anyway.
>Alphonse. It would be nice being able to show off our only knight besides Duncan. Also, we still can learn lots about swordplay from him.
>Somebody else? (Write in)

Also, there are some items you would like to bring with you. Which are...
>Some pots and pans. Every piece of kitchen ware is different. Maybe you would like some familiar tools?
>Some training weapons. There's always this one piece of training equipment that feels more familiar than the others. Since you might train quite a bit there, this might help you.
>An assortment of clothes. We can't wear leather and chainmail everyday, right?
>Some healing herbs and such. It's not the best weather overall, so we should have something against colds and such.
>There's this one book in the library we didn't finish yet. It's about (what?)
>Presents for Lord David and Ariadne. You're not sure if these are mandatory every time, but why take a risk?
>Something else? (What?)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Well, guys. It's almost 3 am over here, so I am calling it for the night. I should be back in around twelve hours again. Until then, feel free to vote, write in and all that. Good night and thank all of you a lot for playing.

>>1055348
>Some soldiers 15?
>One of Henry's guys.
>Ulf and Miroslav. Why not, actually? They don't have work at the moment anyway.
They can do artsty things for fatherinlaw.
>Alphonse. It would be nice being able to show off our only knight besides Duncan. Also, we still can learn lots about swordplay from him.
He can play with Ari.

>>1055348
As for the things to take, everything you listed sounds good.

Hey guys, I'm back. Writing.

>Duncan? I am preparing things for my travel. Could you arrange that this list of things could be brought to castle La-Roche? I'm not sure if we could transport all of this on our own with a single horse to transport the goods we need.
Duncan reads through the list and nods.
>Sure. I will see that there will be a cart to follow you. It might arrive a days or two later than you, though.
Well, this sounds reasonable. After all, you will be traveling somewhat light.
>Still, you might want to take a thing or two with you directly. Is there anything you would like to bring yourself?
Well, this is a good question. Is there anything from the above list you would like to bring?

>Pick up to two from the item list.

Now, it is time to inform the people you intend to bring with you.
>Duncan? Can we somehow spare fifteen soldiers? I would like a somewhat more representative guard, just in case.
You doubt that you would actually need it too much, but still... having only nine men when meeting with the king left quite an impact on you.
>I think we could possibly do so. After all, there are no more bandits on your lands at the moment. But with the threat in the east, I would like every man to be here to defend the castle. But still, I would like every man to be with you. We can't risk having something happen to you.
He's right, yeah. Howevery you do it, there's a weakness to every solution. But you have to pick something.
>Take ten men, just like the last time. We need a strong garrison.
>Take the fifteen men. They will be more representative than a lesser amount, and the forces will be split evenly between you and your castle.
>Take twenty men. You can always retake the castle, but if something happened to you...
>Something else? (Write in)

Then, you head up to the raven loft.
>Henry? Do you have a moment?
Your birdmaster stops his lecture of the new workers and turns towards you.
>A moment should be possible. How can I help you, Mylord?
You tell him of your plan to take some ravens and a caretaker for them. He nods.
>Well, all of them have been in training for only a few moments now, but I could teach them the bare minimum until your departure, I guess.
He clears his throat and continues.
>But still, you easily could do it yourself. I taught you quite a bit about ravens. You are more knowledgeable than all of them so far.
Well, he's not wrong about this. What do you want to do?
>Do it yourself. This way, you won't keep anyone behind in training.
>Take one of them with you. You might be occupied with other things.
>Something else? (Write in)

Next are the training grounds, where Alphonse finally is back in training.
>Hello Alphonse, how are you doing?
you ask. He turns towards you, jokingly shielding his groin.
>Please don't kick me again! I have been a decent person, I swear.
he jokes. You chuckle a bit before returning to topic.
[cont.]

>In around five days, I will be leaving my holdings to spend the winter at castle La-Roche.
Alphonse nods.
>Lord David Sang-Valois' main hold. I've been there once. A nice castle.
You surely can agree on this. It's being kept in formidable condition, it's big and has a lot of pleasant features.
>If you want to see it again, now is your chance. Would you like to join me on this travel?
Alphonse seems to think for a moment, then he agrees.
>Sure. After all, we can't slack off on our training, right?
Well, this is a good question. Will you have time to train while studying?
>Absolutely. We will make time for it.
>I'm not sure how much time I will have, but Lord Sang-Valois' daughter Ariadne would surely like to spend some time with you.
>We'll see if I can make time for it. In any way, you will find something worth your time.
>Something else? (Write in)

Finally, you head down to the village, where Ulf and Miroslav are sitting in the pub. You can't say that's a waste of time. They can't work too much anymore, so there's not much to be done.
>Hello, Lord Jean! How you doin'?
Miroslav greets you. You sit down and inquire about their construction efforts first.
>The bee houses we did first. Gonna need the honey, right?
Ulf says. Miroslav nods in agreement.
>The stables at the market are done, too. Not too big, not too nice, but works anyway.
Ulf continues. Then, he comes to their last, possibly most important tast.
>Finished the border guard just before it became too cold. This should keep any kind of baddies away.
Well, this is good news. Still, the task to build something to guard the passes came pretty surprisingly. Now, they couldn't gather any stones like they planned to. In the spring, it will take some time for them to continue their craft.
>Tell me, can you make more from stones than houses and such?
you ask. Both of them nod eagerly.
>Sure. We can make everything. Castles, roads, walls...
You smile a bit. This wasn't completely what you meant.
>And smaller things? Statues, figurines and such?
They shrug and Ulf takes off some kind of necklace he wore. It's got the shape of a hammer and has weird symbols engraved.
>I made this once. Is an old symbol of my people. Do you think this is sufficient?
Well, the symbols seem to have been corrected multiple times, but the basic stonework is solid.
Do you want to take them with you?
>No, we need someone with a true artistic talent. We should ask one of our carpenters.
>This is as artsy as your hold gets. Take them with you.
>Well, this surely is something to start with. Maybe Lord Sang-Valois has somebody they could learn from?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1057371
Presents and clothes

>Take the fifteen men. They will be more representative than a lesser amount, and the forces will be split evenly between you and your castle.

>Take one of them with you. You might be occupied with other things.

>We'll see if I can make time for it. In any way, you will find something worth your time.

>Well, this surely is something to start with. Maybe Lord Sang-Valois has somebody they could learn from?

>>1057392
Alright, writing. Sorry for the delay, but my car's battery died and I had to wait for help.
Damn, it's cold outside.

>I think an equal split would be the best option. Fifteen men should be able to hold Saint Michel, should the need ever arise. And everything over fifteen men will slow me down, I suppose.
Duncan nods.
>Alright. I will see to it. Fifteen men for you and fourteen for us until Frederic returns.
Oh, right. Frederic is still on his way to deliver your message to the king. Hopefully, the king can do something about the threat that the Lords Dupont and Daymarque pose.

>Well, I think I should take someone with me. I might have a tight schedule. Somebody should feed the ravens at the right time.
Henry nods, smiling at you recalling the information about timed feeding.
>Very well, I'll see who might be fit to do this. After all, the training has just started.
You nod and leave towards the training grounds. There's still something to do.

>Well, I already have a lot to do, but I will see that I can make time for it. After all, it will only benefit me.
Alphonse nods, but seems somewhat sobered up.
>Still, there are quite a few skilled fighters at La-Roche. You will always find an opponent worth your time.
Now, Alphonse seems in a better mood immediately.
>Well, this sounds way better. Without a good opponent, I don't feel very well.
Well, he will be in a great mood once he finds out that he might get a tireless opponent like he never had before.

>Well, this is nice, Ulf. I think there might even be some people you could talk with about your work. Nothing like talking to someone of the same profession, right?
Ulf nods.
>Yeah, talking to others is interesting. The people here are working in different ways than the people back at home do. Miroslav knew things that I didn't and the other way around.
You thank them and tell them of the time you are supposed to leave.
>A'right, Lord Jean. We will be there.
Miroslav says. You turn your horse and move back to the castle. It's dinner time.
After dinner, you fall into your bed immediately.
After all, the morning will come soon, leaving you with only five more days before leaving.
How do you want to spend the next one?
[cont.]

>Ask for possible political tasks. There has to be something, right?
>Since we are leaving soon, we should do (what?) before.
>Let's see how Henry and his new workers are doing.
>The plan of integrating the vikings is going pretty well. Maybe you should develop a follow-up plan with someone. (Who?)
>You are doing pretty well on horseback, but there still is stuff to learn. Why don't you try to improve further?
>Well, you got the clothes and such going for your sibling. But you should make something yourself. Why not ask someone for help with crafting a thing on our own? (Write in what you want to make and what kind of craft you would want to learn.)
>You feel like a walk. Why not go out and enjoy the day? Maybe you even find something of interest.
>Talk to (who?) about (what?)
>Train in (what?)
>Annabelle had a lot of fun learning to cook. Why don't we help her learn more?
>We're officially a knight now, but this doesn't mean we should slack off. Let's get some martial routine. (General? A certain thing?)
>See how Damien is doing with his training. He seemed very eager about riding.
>Damien is doing very well with his training. We should reward him by making him into a squire to (Yourself? Someone else?).
>Being a proficient dancer is nice, but being a masterful dancer would be better. Let's work on this.
>We are well proficient in the art of dancing. But art is a wide field. Why not try our hand at something new? (What?)
>The food reserves have grown, but more can't hurt, right? Let's get something. (Hunt? Gather?)
>Visit a production site. It will be good for morale, which will be good for production output.
>Duncan taught us all he could about warfare and tactics. But still, there must be a way to improve further. Maybe we should ask Alphonse? Or look for a book in our library?
>Alphonse is back in training. Maybe he wants to spar with us?
>Something else? (Write in)

File: nghe7ayt57fx.png (231 KB, 541x361)

231 KB PNG

>>1057501
>See how Damien is doing with his training. He seemed very eager about riding.
>We're officially a knight now, but this doesn't mean we should slack off. Let's get some martial routine. (General? A certain thing?)
Learn Unarmed combat. In case we need to fuck a nigga up when we at a party or some shit

>>1057508
Alright. Roll me 1d20+1 for your learning success. Best of three.

File: e8ff3d070124ff17a801f8ab3(...).jpg (46 KB, 564x1060)

46 KB JPG

Rolled 16 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1057540

Rolled 20 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1057540
Hey, look. It's a second roll.

Rolled 9 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1057540
>>1057563
How can we even compete?

You have to see how Damien is doing. After all, he seemed very enthusiastic about riding. Even more than usual.
After breakfast, you head down to the training grounds, where Damien is already on horseback.
Impressive. He must have started cleaning the stables at dawn, if not earlier.
>Now, see if you can pass through this parcours.
Duncan instructs him. Between the various baracks around the training grounds, he seems to have placed additional obstacles.
>Alright. Come on, boy. We can do it!
Damien says and the horse starts to trot towards the course. After finishing it once at this slow speed, Damien pats the horse's neck.
>Well done. But we can do this faster, can we?
They can. After some rounds at increasing speeds, Damien manages to ride his horse through the obstacle course in full gallop.
>Well done, my boy. Well done indeed.
Duncan says. You join them, clapping lightly.
>This was well done, Damien. How long have you been practicing?
you ask. Damien beams at you with pride.
>A few days until now. But I started very early, didn't I?
Duncan nods.
>Yes, you did. I barely got up from breakfast when the boy already was on the grounds, doing some of the previous exercises.
This is great. Looks like Damien is just as good at riding as he is at caring for the horses.
>I think he learned all about riding itself. What would you say about progressing to a new kind of lessons?
Duncan asks. You nod. Damien seems like he learned all he could about riding so far.
You collect your thoughts for a while and decide that Damien should....
>Continue with riding combat. He loves everything related to horses, right?
>Continue with combat basics. Sometimes, you will have to start, right?
>Learn about behaviour at court. Every knight has to know about this.
>Get a knight to take him in as a squire. He did very well, after all.
>Something else? (Write in)

Afterwards, you turn to Alphonse who was training at a different part of the grounds.
>Hello, Alphonse. Would you mind training with me again?
you ask.
>Not at all. Your swordsmanship again?
he answers. You shake your head.
>I think I have to learn more about another thing you once taught me about. I can't rely on having a weapon at all times.
Alphonse nods.
>Alright. So you would like to learn more about unarmed combat? No problem.
You learned how to defend your unarmed self against an armed opponent last time. Now, you learn about defending yourself against other unarmed opponents and most importantly, attacking both kinds.
As the sun is sinking, you are out of breath, but Alphonse is very proud about your successes in (choose one)
>Pugilism. Nothing like a good pair of fists, huh?
>Grappling. If the opponent is unable to move, he won't do any damage, right?
>Pankration. Combine the best of fist fighting and grappling into this deadly combination.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1057684
>Continue with combat basics. Sometimes, you will have to start, right?

>Pugilism. Nothing like a good pair of fists, huh?

>I think he knows the basics by now. Moving on foot, moving on a horse, wearing armor properly... I think weapons should be his next topic. Still, keep it at training weapons for now. Real ones might still be too heavy for him.
Duncan nods in agreement. This sounds like a good plan.
>Alright. I will see to it. I think starting with a shortsword would be good, right? It's already possible for him to carry it properly, unlike quite a few other weapons.
You nod. This sounds reasonable. You thank him and leave to meet up with Alphonse. There is some knowledge you have to brush up on.

A fist to the face, throat, kidneys... all of these are different in effect, but have one thing in common. They cause your opponent trouble. If you know how to use your fists, you don't need anything else.
You have learned the art of pugilism. You're no master, but surely able to hold yourself against quite a few opponents. Even bigger ones, which makes you especially proud.
You return to the castle for dinner and end the day with some salve for your lightly bruised hands. Learning how to hit things is quite painful in the beginning.
The morning comes and it's only four more days until your leave. How do you want to spend this day?
[cont.]

>Ask for possible political tasks. There has to be something, right?
>Since we are leaving soon, we should do (what?) before.
>Let's see how Henry and his new workers are doing.
>The plan of integrating the vikings is going pretty well. Maybe you should develop a follow-up plan with someone. (Who?)
>You are doing pretty well on horseback, but there still is stuff to learn. Why don't you try to improve further?
>Well, you got the clothes and such going for your sibling. But you should make something yourself. Why not ask someone for help with crafting a thing on our own? (Write in what you want to make and what kind of craft you would want to learn.)
>You feel like a walk. Why not go out and enjoy the day? Maybe you even find something of interest.
>Talk to (who?) about (what?)
>Train in (what?)
>Annabelle had a lot of fun learning to cook. Why don't we help her learn more?
>We're officially a knight now, but this doesn't mean we should slack off. Let's get some martial routine. (General? A certain thing?)
>See how Damien is doing with his training. He seemed very eager about riding.
>Damien is doing very well with his training. We should reward him by making him into a squire to (Yourself? Someone else?).
>Being a proficient dancer is nice, but being a masterful dancer would be better. Let's work on this.
>We are well proficient in the art of dancing. But art is a wide field. Why not try our hand at something new? (What?)
>The food reserves have grown, but more can't hurt, right? Let's get something. (Hunt? Gather?)
>Visit a production site. It will be good for morale, which will be good for production output.
>Duncan taught us all he could about warfare and tactics. But still, there must be a way to improve further. Maybe we should ask Alphonse? Or look for a book in our library?
>Alphonse is back in training. Maybe he wants to spar with us/ help us train our pugilism further/help us with learning another way of weaponless fight?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1057842
>Ask for possible political tasks. There has to be something, right?

>>1057842
>Ask for possible political tasks. There has to be something, right?
>Alphonse is back in training. Maybe he wants to spar with us/ help us train our pugilism further/help us with learning another way of weaponless fight?
Pugilism

You decide that you have to put some focus on politics. After all, it will become pretty difficult in some days.
>Hello, Lucius. Maurice.
you greet your stewards. They looks up from their work and return the greeting.
>Good morning, Mylord. What a coincidence that you are here, because we just got something of interest.
He hands you a letter, the seal showing a falling star.
>The seal of Lord de l'Etoile! What does the king's steward wish from me?
Opening the letter, you find some mostly non-relevant banter about taxes.
>Looks like this letter was sent to inform us about the date on which the taxes are due.
Lucius and Maurice get up from their desks and take a look at the letter, too.
>Three hundred guinees, to be paid on Pentecost. This sounds... reasonable. But cheap for some reason.
Lucius says. You tell him of the tax cut that you managed to gain from the king. He gives you a respectful nod and begins to look through the books.
>Aside from the payment that we gained from the Belamy money, we earned around... two hundred and fifty guinees so far. Most of it during the last months.
Well, this sounds promising. The first part of the year not being very fruitful isn't much news to you. After all, people mostly spent their time leaving to other provinces. Or whole provinces leaving. Still, your financial effort seem like they are paying off.
>Which means that we could easily gain the missing money until Pentecost?
you ask. Lucius nods.
>Sure. Since our market is now available all year, the trader will come all year round. Or should do so, if the roads stay accessible. Sometimes, heavy snow might block them.
Well, this sounds good. A warm winter might bring in quite a few coins.
>You know what's weird?
Maurice adds suddenly. You shrug.
>The writing starts right at the top and goes down normally. But then, there is a huge space between the last written sentence and the signature. Like there was something supposed to be.
Lucius shakes his head.
>I think that's just a matter of bureaucracy. Everyone in economy learns to sign a letter at the bottom of the page.
Well, what do you think about this?
>Maurice is right. Something is odd here.
>Lucius is right. Maybe that's just a habit of some kind.
>Well, you're not sure. Maybe ask Missa?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1058083
>Well, you're not sure. Maybe ask Missa?

>>1058103
Or ask Alphonse. He must be familiar how his family signs this documents.

>>1058083
>Well, you're not sure. Maybe ask Missa?

You decide to ask Missa for help. She greets you as enthusiastically as ever.
>Good morning, sweetheart. How can I help you?
After entering and closing the door, you show Missa the letter you got.
>It looks like a regular tax notification, but something is off. Why would somebody sign this far down?
Missa takes the letter and holds it against the window.
>Just like I thought. Would you mind lighting that candle over there?
You are kind of confused, but do as she says. One the candle is lit, Missa takes the letter and holds it above the flame and... previously hidden writing appears.
>A nice little trick, don't you think so? Just write with milk and the letters will disappear. Warmth makes them reappear.
[You learned: Secret Ink]
You take the letter and read the newly appeared message.
>Thank you for the information. We will send an investigator. He should report to you soon. Beetroot juice.
Well, the first things make sense. Looks like your raven reached the king. But what about the last part? Is it some kind of secret message?
>Missa? Can you tell me what they mean when they say 'beetroot juice'? I don't understand.
Missa shrugs.
>I can't say for certain what it will be, but this is how you will recognize the investigator, I think. I could be someone selling beetroot juice at the roadside, a weird old man who wants to talk about beetroot juice and many things more. Keep your eyes and ears open.
Well, this is somewhat more clear now, but it won't be easy anyway.
>Well, you seemed interested in the ink. Do I take it right that you are interested in the arts of intrigue and espionage?
Missa asks. What do you want to answer?
>Sure, I would like to learn about it.
>No, thanks. This seems a bit... dishonorable to me.
>It's interesting, yes. But could we possibly hold this lesson later? I have an appointment with Alphonse for a lesson in pugilism.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1058323
>It's interesting, yes. But could we possibly hold this lesson later? I have an appointment with Alphonse for a lesson in pugilism.
Even if we don't use it, it's good to know the signs

Well, guys. It's 2:17 over here. I should go to bed. Since I will be busy tomorrow, I guess that I should be running Thursday around our usual times again. I'll let you know on Twitter (@ContraImperator).
Until then, you are free to vote. Good night and thanks for playing!

>>1058323
>>Sure, I would like to learn about it.

>>1060986
This.

>>1058323
>Sure, I would like to learn about it.

>>1060986
>>1061124
>>1061477
Hey guys. I'm back. Roll me 1d20+1 for your learning success. Best of three.

Rolled 5 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1064219

Rolled 17 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1064219

Rolled 18 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1064219
And a third roll, so we can continue.

>Sure. I would like to learn about it. No matter if I will be using it or not, it's always better to know if somebody is doing so.
you say, making Missa nod.
>Well said, my sweet prince.
Missa says. With that, the lesson begins.
First lesson is seeing through deception and realizing the true intentions of a person.
>You are doing amazing, just like Jandant did. Both of you are just so great at seeing people's motives.
Missa says. She's right, this just came to you naturally. Still, shouldn't it have been 'were'? After all, Lord Jandant is dead. Well, it might be better not to remind her of it.
>Now, we need to help you with using deception yourself. You know all the signs of lying, so try to make me convinced of something.
Missa says. Touching your face is a big giveaway, just like an unsteady voice and not being able to look someone into the eyes. Now that you know it, you can easily manipulate yourself to appear truthful.
>My name is Jean Capet and I am the rightful heir to the throne of France.
you say, for it is the first thing that comes to your mind.
>Well, this surely was... convincing. Well done.
Missa says. Her voice sounds truthful so far, but with someone as skilled as Missa, who knows for sure? Still, there was something... odd in her voice. Maybe you didn't do well enough?
>I am roughly seven feet tall.
you try again, this time even more focused. Missa, who seemed lost in some thoughts, is brought back to the lesson.
>Not bad, really. You're good at this. If you weren't standing in front of me, I would have believed it.
she says. Looks like you did well so far.
>Now, I would love to continue the lesson, but I think it is dinner time now. You must be hungry, right?
Missa says. You nod. Of course, you didn't eat for a while. You should get dinner.
You offer her your arm and lead her to the dining hall.
>How chivalrous, Lord Jean.
she says. Since when does she call you this name? Seems like you did something right. Or wrong, who can be sure with Missa?
After dinner, you fall into bed. Now, there are only three more days until you have to leave for the winter. How do you want to spend these days?
[cont.]

>Ask for possible political tasks. There has to be something, right?
>Since we are leaving soon, we should do (what?) before.
>Let's see how Henry and his new workers are doing.
>The plan of integrating the vikings is going pretty well. Maybe you should develop a follow-up plan with someone. (Who?)
>You are doing pretty well on horseback, but there still is stuff to learn. Why don't you try to improve further?
>Well, you got the clothes and such going for your sibling. But you should make something yourself. Why not ask someone for help with crafting a thing on our own? (Write in what you want to make and what kind of craft you would want to learn.)
>You feel like a walk. Maybe going to the village will give you some hints to the beetroot thing? You should solve it before leaving.
>Talk to (who?) about (what?)
>Train in (what?)
>Annabelle had a lot of fun learning to cook. Why don't we help her learn more?
>We're officially a knight now, but this doesn't mean we should slack off. Let's get some martial routine. (General? A certain thing?)
>See how Damien is doing with his training. He seemed very eager about riding.
>Damien is doing very well with his training. We should reward him by making him into a squire to (Yourself? Someone else?).
>Being a proficient dancer is nice, but being a masterful dancer would be better. Let's work on this.
>We are well proficient in the art of dancing. But art is a wide field. Why not try our hand at something new? (What?)
>The food reserves have grown, but more can't hurt, right? Let's get something. (Hunt? Gather?)
>Visit a production site. It will be good for morale, which will be good for production output.
>Duncan taught us all he could about warfare and tactics. But still, there must be a way to improve further. Maybe we should ask Alphonse? Or look for a book in our library?
>Alphonse is back in training. Maybe he wants to spar with us/ help us train our pugilism further/help us with learning another way of weaponless fight?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1064321
>We're officially a knight now, but this doesn't mean we should slack off. Let's get some martial routine. (General? A certain thing?)

Archery

>>1064329
Alright. Roll me 1d20+1 for your learning success. Best of three, as most of the time.

>>1064329
This.

Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>1064387
Rolling

Rolled 5 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1064387

Rolled 3 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1064387
Learning archery over hand to hand combat, forshame

>>1064407
Can't always use hand to hand combat. Some people are faster than you when running away.
Writing.

>>1064420
Are we going to carry a fucking bow everywhere? Recurve bows haven't been invented yet

You've always been a decent archer, but lately, you didn't get much practice. Looks like you should change that.
You head down to the training grounds and pick up a bow and a few arrows.
It's been quite a while and you have some trouble hitting your targets at first. Still, after an hour or two of practice, you find yourself back at an acceptable level.
You pick up your arrows and send them flying one more time. This time, you finally manage to hit with all of them.
>Looks like I should train a bit more often, I guess.
you say to yourself while putting the bow and arrows back where they belong.
It is around noon now. Do you want to continue your training?
>Yes, I will need to keep up a certain level of skill. (Roll 1d20+1 again. Best of three.)
>No, I have things to do. More important things for now. (Choose from the usual list or make a write-in)
>Something else? (Write in)

Rolled 20 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1064430
>Yes, I will need to keep up a certain level of skill. (Roll 1d20+1 again. Best of three.)

Rolled 10 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1064430
>Yes, I will need to keep up a certain level of skill. (Roll 1d20+1 again. Best of three.)

Rolled 10 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1064430
So we can move on...

You decide that you need to work on your archery even more. After all, just staying at the same level won't quite cut it.
You take up the bow again and head out to the training grounds for another practice session.
It's pretty windy outside. The wind, of course! You didn't properly calculate its direction, making your shots harder to pull off.
>Well, regarding this, I might do better this time.
you say to yourself as you send an arrow at the target, hitting dead-on. Motivated by this success, you follow up with more arrows, each of them hitting just as well.
Then, you try to hit from further away. Again, you pull it off more than just decently. Finally, you double the usual training distance and try for another time.
Your shots aren't just as accurate, though all of them still hit the target. But this is more thanks to the limits of your bow than your skill. Finally, you reached the point you wanted to.
[+Archery basics finished. Mastery available.]
Your arms are sore from the long day of training, so you decide to wrap it up for today. After putting away the bow and arrows, you head back to the castle for dinner.
The night approaches and leaves again, meaning you only got two more days to spend back at home. How do you want to spend this one?
[cont.]

>Ask for possible political tasks. There has to be something, right?
>Since we are leaving soon, we should do (what?) before.
>Let's see how Henry and his new workers are doing.
>You feel like a walk. Maybe going to the village will give you some hints to the beetroot thing? You should solve it before leaving.
>The plan of integrating the vikings is going pretty well. Maybe you should develop a follow-up plan with someone. (Who?)
>You are doing pretty well on horseback, but there still is stuff to learn. Why don't you try to improve further?
>Well, you got the clothes and such going for your sibling. But you should make something yourself. Why not ask someone for help with crafting a thing on our own? (Write in what you want to make and what kind of craft you would want to learn.)
>Talk to (who?) about (what?)
>Train in (what?)
>Annabelle had a lot of fun learning to cook. Why don't we help her learn more?
>We're officially a knight now, but this doesn't mean we should slack off. Let's get some martial routine. (General? A certain thing?)
>See how Damien is doing with his training. He seemed very eager about riding.
>Damien is doing very well with his training. We should reward him by making him into a squire to (Yourself? Someone else?).
>Being a proficient dancer is nice, but being a masterful dancer would be better. Let's work on this.
>We are well proficient in the art of dancing. But art is a wide field. Why not try our hand at something new? (What?)
>The food reserves have grown, but more can't hurt, right? Let's get something. (Hunt? Gather?)
>Visit a production site. It will be good for morale, which will be good for production output.
>Duncan taught us all he could about warfare and tactics. But still, there must be a way to improve further. Maybe we should ask Alphonse? Or look for a book in our library?
>Alphonse is back in training. Maybe he wants to spar with us/ help us train our pugilism further/help us with learning another way of weaponless fight?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1064463
>Duncan taught us all he could about warfare and tactics. But still, there must be a way to improve further. Maybe we should ask Alphonse? Or look for a book in our library?

>>1064463
>Damien is doing very well with his training. We should reward him by making him into a squire to Yourself

We can learn more warfare and shit at annabels dads kingdom, hes got better resources than us.

>>1064463
>Duncan taught us all he could about warfare and tactics. But still, there must be a way to improve further. Maybe we should ask Alphonse? Or look for a book in our library?

>>1064472
>>1064539
Looks like tactics. Roll me 2d20-2 for your success in locating resources and learning from them.
>>1064510
Sorry Ron, your time will come, too.

Rolled 5, 14 - 2 = 17 (2d20 - 2)

>>1064543

Rolled 11, 13 = 24 (2d20)

>>1064543

Rolled 19, 15 - 2 = 32 (2d20 - 2)

>>1064543

>>1064329
>>1064390
I think this was copypasta desu

You need to learn more about warfare. Still, Duncan taught you all he knew or deemed useful, at least.
Looks like you will have to study on your own. Maybe you've got a book about this somewhere?
Your library isn't as big as others, but well chosen from only the best books of various topics.
After some time, you manage to find a book about warfare during the Roman Era. The book looks very old, but is still in good condition. Decorated with beautiful illustrations, it shows the Gallic Wars, from the Roman side as well as from the Gallic side.
It is very well-written and you just fly through it, fascinated by the organisation of the Romans and the resistance of the Gauls alike.
It might not be something you will have the chance to reproduce anytime, since the amount of troops is just too immense, but you gain a lot of interesting insights.
[+Political calculation. Just like Cesar, you can now motivate people to join your cause and stay with it]
[+Siege tactics. You knew about this already, but the detail this book offers brings you a step further towards truly mastering it.]
You sigh as you put down the book. It was an amazing read, but like all amazing reads, it was just too short. You still got half of today left. How do you want to spend it?
>Pick an option from the usual list or make a write in. I'm too lazy to copy it again. I think you should be able to find it, right?

>>1064630
>>You feel like a walk. Maybe going to the village will give you some hints to the beetroot thing? You should solve it before leaving.

>>1064630
>Alphonse is back in training. Maybe he wants to spar with us/ help us train our pugilism further

>>1064640
this

>>1064640
>>1064706
Alright, the secret of the beetroot juice. Roll me 1d20-1 for this. Best of three.

Rolled 16 - 1 (1d20 - 1)

>>1064739

Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>1064739

Rolled 13 - 1 (1d20 - 1)

>>1064739
And a third roll for detecting any traces of beetroots.

You decide that you should try and find out something about the investigator that the king wanted to send.
Since they didn't show up at the castle, they should be at the village or something. If they arrived at all.
First is the market. Checking out the fields would be a very unrewarding task, you guess.
In the market hall, there are a few traders. Thorbjörn and his wife, who greet you enthusiastically. Still, you doubt they would be your contacts.
Next, there is a man selling kitchenware made from wood. Spoons, plates and such. Not very likely, either.
Then, there is a woman selling vegetables.
>Alright, here goes nothing.
you think to yourself and approach the woman.
How do you want to approach her?
>Straightforward. Ask about beetroot juice. Shouldn't we have found the right person, she won't get suspicious, right? It's well in her field of business.
>Casual. Ask her if she has got any specials.
>Another way? (Write in)

>>1064832
>Casual. Ask her if she has got any specials.

>>1064832
>Casual. Ask her if she has got any specials.

Rolled 1 (1d3)

>Hello, my good lady. How are you doing today?
you approach the woman. She smiles at you.
>Oh hello, Lord de Labendai. May I help you with something?
she asks. You nod.
>Just looking for some fresh cooking supplies. Do you have anything special today?
She waves you behind the counter.
>Come and see for yourself. I got some fresh radishes, pickled cucumbers and some beetroot juice. Great for soups, I tell you.
Do you want to follow her into the stall?
>Yes. It's relatively quiet, so it should be okay.
>No, we should talk about stuff this important at the castle. Still, this would be... unusual.
>We should talk about this back in the castle. Maybe we can bring her there in secret?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1064889
>Yes. It's relatively quiet, so it should be okay.

>>1064889
>>Yes. It's relatively quiet, so it should be okay.

>>1064889
>Yes. It's relatively quiet, so it should be okay.

You decide that you could easily follow her. After all, the walls are new, solid granite, making them the most stable building in your whole province.
>Now, if you would just look at these jars here... I think you will be satisfied.
the woman tells you. Indeed, the jar of beetroot juice she just handed you seems... different from the others. There is a second, blank label on the back. Must be the same ink as before. The king's... investigators are truly surprising.
Luckily, there is a lantern hanging in the market stall. After removing the label and holding it over the flame, it reads
>This person is the one you seek. AdlE
Well, the first part sounds promising again. But what could the second this mean. It looks kind of like... a name! Of course. Could it mean Albert de l'Etoile? Because this would make it a message from the king's steward. But you're not sure.
What do you want to do?
>Trust this message. It seems credible.
>This is weird. I don't really trust this.
>We maybe should continue this at the castle.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1065154
>Trust this message. It seems credible.

Well guys. It's 03:16 over here and I should be going to bed. I'll be back in around twelve hours. Until then, feel free to vote. Good night and thanks for playing!

>>1065154
>>Trust this message. It seems credible.

>>1065297
>>1066625
Alright, writing. Sorry for being somewhat late, there was a bit of celebration to be done.

Well, this message surely seems credible enough. You will have to trust it.
>So, how is the overall situation?
you ask, trying not to be too obvious, in case someone might be listening.
>I'm on my way west, hoping to... make a good coin with my wares.
the woman answers. Seems like you are doing this right.
>Still, I only have vegetables and such with me. Should the people want fruit and such, my husband would have to come from the capital.
Well, this isn't too good news. This woman seems to be a spy of some kind, but without any political power to help her quell the conflict. She would have to report back first.
>Well, why didn't you compromise to fill your cart with both of it?
you ask. Wouldn't that have been easier?
>You tend not to make just the same amount that you would make with a cart full with the right goods.
she answers. This sounds reasonable. If an official would be arriving to investigate, this might be a reason to hide anything suspicious. Therefore, this has to be done in secrecy. An ability that most officials lack.
>Do you think you can provide the necessary amount of food to my people?
you ask. After all, this fight wouldn't be too important to you if you weren't at risk, too.
>I think so. But I think you had a sufficient harvest without me, too.
the woman says. Well, she's not wrong. You might have to protect yourself, for which you took the necessary measures already. Now, you can only hope that these will be enough.
>Well, thank you for your help with your wares. If you need help with the markets, just let me know.
you say, handing her a few coins and taking two jars of beetroot juice. It was a very good decision to take the lessons with Missa.
Back at the castle, you find yourself with new information and some leftover energy before going to bed.
Who do you want to talk to about this?
>Missa. She might know something helpful.
>Lucius and Maurice. They will be in charge of anything political in our absence.
>Duncan. He's our most important military officer.
>Annabelle. We might need her father's support, if we're unlucky.
>Let's keep it to ourselves for now. During the winter, we should discuss it with Lord Sang-Valois and, if possible, Lord de Pierre.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1067033
>Missa. She might know something helpful.
>Lucius and Maurice. They will be in charge of anything political in our absence.
>Duncan. He's our most important military officer.
Our council should be informed about it.

You decide that your council needs to be informed about this. During dinner, you take all of them aside in a quiet moment and tell them to meet in your office as soon as possible.
Fifteen minutes later, everyone is assembled. Duncan, Lucius, Maurice, Tuttle and Missa.
>Thank you for coming here this late. I was able to gain some intelligence regarding the situation in the east.
You collect your thoughts for a moment before you continue.
>I sent a letter to the king, asking for help with this. Now, the king has sent a secret investigator.
Everyone nods, knowing what this entails.
>First, they will gather intel and report back to the capital before any further support can be expected. Hopefully, this will be done before the winter ends.
Duncan clears his throat.
>Is there any way that we could aid this investigation to get results earlier?
Well, this is a good question. Do you know any possibilities?
>Yes, we should (Write in your idea)
>No, I fear we will have to wait and be ready for all that might happen.
>Well, what do you think about this, (who?)
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1067217
>Well, what do you think about this, Misa

>>1067217
>Well, what do you think about this, Missa

The next post will take a while. My brother has finished his apprenticeship today and we're going out to eat.

>Well, what do you think about this? Any opinions, Missa? You know, from a more... neutral outlook?
you ask your spymaster and presumed dance teacher. She shrugs.
>I think the king will send the best person for the job. It's a danger to the realm, isn't it?
Just like you intended, she is playing the unknowing civilian role, not giving away her massive espionage and intrigue knowledge.
>I think they will do it quickly, reporting back in time for some way to settle this. Also, why do we even bother? They aren't fighting us, don't they?
She's just playing the role perfectly, as you hear Lucius sigh with annoyance.
>We're small, Missa. An easy target for an army that needs supplies, or raiders that deserted from the armies.
Missa nods, like he just explained a complicated thing to her.
>I say we should try and keep out of it, while still putting more men to work at the border guard. If we can keep them supplied and armed, our passes should be safe.
This is a good point, too. Missa speaks up again.
>Tell me... war weakens both sides, right? What if the war starts and they beat each other to pieces? Could that weaken both forces enough for us to come and regain our lost lands? And maybe some more?
It sounds innocent enough from her played unwittingness, but you recognize the dangerous, but possibly highly rewarding plan. Duncan shakes his head.
>Absolutely dishonorable, Missa. Nothing a true man would do.
Maurice raises his hand and clears his throat to gain the attention.
>This realm has suffered, hasn't it? If it's for the best of the realm, honor might be disregarded for once.
They erupt into a massive discussion, until Tuttle proposes another plan.
>Our good Lord Jean is a man of many smart words. Don't you think he would be a great negotiator for a solution beneficial to everyone?
Well, this is an interesting idea, too. Still, Lucius isn't fully convinced.
>Why would they listen to a small, upstart lord like him? No offense, Mylord. But why should they do so? This war seems long prepared, so I doubt we might avoid it with words alone. And we don't have the amount of steel to settle it ourselves. There is no other choice but to wait.
Well, you've heard a lot of possible strategies. Did one convince you?
>Yes, we should just strengthen our borders. With our militia, we might just appear strong enough to keep away any invaders.
>Yes, the wait and takeover plan Missa made seems good. We need these lands. Maybe we can strengthen our forces enough to pull it off?
>Lucius is right. We should just keep out of it.
>Tuttle's plan doesn't sound half bad. If Lord Daymarque could be convinced to lay down his arms, Lord Dupont would gladly do so, too.
>Well, I just made one. If we got the Lords Sang-Valois and de Pierre to join us, we could easily turn the tides in our favour. If we reward each of them with the land bordering theirs, we might motivate them to do so, while making a great profit ourselves.
>No, we will need another plan. (Write in)

>>1067885
>Yes, we should just strengthen our borders. With our militia, we might just appear strong enough to keep away any invaders.
I say we wait till the king takes action to try to reclaim the lands (preferably by diplomacy).

>Thank you for all the ideas. I have decided on a further plan.
you say. Everyone looks at you expectantly.
>This is not our war. Therefore, we shall keep out of it. If we strengthen our borders, we will be able to repeal almost everything that might be thrown at us. The new militia will make us look strong enough to reduce these things greatly, too.
you decide. Everyone nods in agreement. Seems like they can understand your point of view.
>I will see to it immediately, Mylord. Where should we take the troops from?
Duncan asks. You shrugs.
>What are our possibilities?
you say. Duncan makes a quick mental calculation, then continues.
>Fort Trois-Tours already provides a basic guard of eight men. Doubling this amount would set us safe enough. Therefore, you could take these additional eight men from there as well, which would set them to a garrison of thirty-four. Still, keep in mind that they are our strongest line of defense, should the border fall for some reason.
You nod and sign him to continue.
>Well, aside from that, we could take men from the Durnholm city watch. Still, it consists of twenty men only. Further reducing it might increase crime in the city greatly.
You nod. This sounds about right. The last time you were there, you found a ring of slavers operating without the guards knowledge.
>And finally, we could take men from Saint Michel. Still, we are reduced to a meager amount of fifteen men already, once you take your leave.
None of these sound too promising. How do you want to settle this?
>Take the men from Trois-Tours. If the border does not fall, we won't need their defensive capabilities.
>Take the men from Durnholm. If a massive crime ring could already work with them present, their absence won't change much anyway.
>Take the men from Saint Michel. Without us there, nobody should see much sense in attacking it anyway.
>Take the men from my guard. I can do with a less... representative escort.
>A combination?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1068293
>Take the men from my guard. I can do with a less... representative escort.


We really need to see about getting a few more troops...

>Just take them from my escort. We made an acceptable impression on the king with eight men the last time, so seven will do just fine, considering that he won't even be present this time.
you say. Duncan still seems worried.
>But what about your safety, Mylord? Will this be sufficient?
he asks. You nod.
>Absolutely. My talent in fighting has grown since then. Also, Alphonse is with me. Regarding the fact that we routed the bandits on the road last time, we should do just fine.
Now, Duncan seems somewhat convinced.
>If you say so. I trust Sir Alphonse to keep you safe then.
he says. You chuckle, since you just got a funny thought.
>Also, who would voluntarily fight me, while Ulf and Miroslav are with me? They should intimidate everyone, right?
Now, the room is filled with laughter. Looks like you just set the mood to a more positive degree.
>I think we have dealt with this enough, right? We can't do much more.
you summarize and everyone agrees. Looks like you are done for today.
The night is reasonably long, so you wake up well rested. This is good, since today is the last day in a while that you will be home.
How do you want to spend it?
[cont.]

>Ask for possible political tasks. There has to be something, right?
>We don't have any gifts for Lord Sang-Valois and Ariadne yet. Maybe we should look for something?
>Since we are leaving soon, we should do (what?) before.
>Let's see how Henry and his new workers are doing.
>You feel like a walk. Maybe going to the village will give you some hints to the beetroot thing? You should solve it before leaving.
>The plan of integrating the vikings is going pretty well. Maybe you should develop a follow-up plan with someone. (Who?)
>You are doing pretty well on horseback, but there still is stuff to learn. Why don't you try to improve further?
>Well, you got the clothes and such going for your sibling. But you should make something yourself. Why not ask someone for help with crafting a thing on our own? (Write in what you want to make and what kind of craft you would want to learn.)
>Talk to (who?) about (what?)
>Train in (what?)
>Annabelle had a lot of fun learning to cook. Why don't we help her learn more?
>We're officially a knight now, but this doesn't mean we should slack off. Let's get some martial routine. (General? A certain thing?)
>See how Damien is doing with his training. He seemed very eager about riding.
>Damien is doing very well with his training. We should reward him by making him into a squire to (Yourself? Someone else?).
>Being a proficient dancer is nice, but being a masterful dancer would be better. Let's work on this.
>We are well proficient in the art of dancing. But art is a wide field. Why not try our hand at something new? (What?)
>The food reserves have grown, but more can't hurt, right? Let's get something. (Hunt? Gather?)
>Visit a production site. It will be good for morale, which will be good for production output.
>Duncan taught us all he could about warfare and tactics. But still, there must be a way to improve further. Maybe we should ask Alphonse? Or look for a book in our library?
>Alphonse is back in training. Maybe he wants to spar with us/ help us train our pugilism further/help us with learning another way of weaponless fight?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1068471
>We don't have any gifts for Lord Sang-Valois and Ariadne yet. Maybe we should look for something?

You decide that you might prepare some gifts for Lord David and Ariadne in advance. Last time, you forgot to do so and had to get something in Murat-sur-les-Pleins at the last possible moment. Maybe some preparations in advance might be good.
You head down to the market hall and see the same vendors as yesterday, Thorbjörn and his wife as well as the woman selling kitchen ware. The woman with the vegetables seems to have left already, but her stall is occupied by the same man with the fancy hat you met some time ago.
This guys seems like your best shot. Kitchen ware and coals don't seem too well fit as a gift, but his books might as well cut it.
Well, what do you want to do?
>(free action) Tell the book seller about your plan of opening a school. Maybe this will improve the frequency of his visits and the amount of wares he offers.
>Well, it's going to be winter soon. Coal might be an unusual, but surely useful gift.
>Ask the book seller if he has any books suited to Lord Sang-Valois. Something artistic might be nice.
>Ask for some books on tactics or warfare. Maybe Ariadne will like this.
>Our selection is too small just in here. Maybe you should continue your search (where?)
>Looks like you will have to go to Murat or Durnholm for something better. All of this isn't too great.
>Something else? (Write in)

Well guys... I have to go to bed, since it is 02:13 again. Until tomorrow, feel free to vote however much you like.
Good night and thank you all for playing!

>>1069029
>>(free action) Tell the book seller about your plan of opening a school. Maybe this will improve the frequency of his visits and the amount of wares he offers.
>>Well, it's going to be winter soon. Coal might be an unusual, but surely useful gift.
>>Ask the book seller if he has any books suited to Lord Sang-Valois. Something artistic might be nice.

Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>1072138
Hey guys, I'm back. Roll me 1d20 for the things the book seller might have to offer. Best of three.

Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>1072584

Feel free to roll. The next post might take a while though. Something came up.

Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>1072584

Rolled 7 (1d20)

Hey guys, I'm back. I'll just roll the missing die, then make a new thread. We're getting dangerously old.

>>1077067
And we're live!