>By the way... did you know that I intend to open a school for the people of this village?
you ask the vendor. He seems surprised.
>A regular school? For... everyone? Does this mean that there will be a lot of people able to read soon?
he asks. You nod.
>This is an impressive business oportunity. I think I will soon improve my selection. Is there anything special your lands would need very direly?
Well, this man is asking the right questions. What kind of books might be good to have?
>Simple books to teach people, especially children to read. Gotta start somewhere.
>Farming guides. You can learn to read from everything, so why not add another chance to learn?
>Entertaining literature. Besides work and alcohol, there is not much to do in your lands.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1077067
>This will be sufficient. It's helpful, just to her liking. Also, it's a nice joke, isn't it?
Moreover since she didn't think much of the present we got her last time tell her it's so she can use it to smith her own weapon with it.

>History of the Roman Empire. A history book with a few nice illustrations.

>Simple books to teach people, especially children to read. Gotta start somewhere.

Any other opinions? If not, I'll start writing in five minutes.

>>1077068
>This will be sufficient. It's helpful, just to her liking. Also, it's a nice joke, isn't it?

>Sculpting for beginners. A guide on creating sculptures from various materials.
>History of the Roman Empire. A history book with a few nice illustrations.

>Farming guides. You can learn to read from everything, so why not add another chance to learn?

>Well, I think this will just be fitting. The person that will obtain this has done quite a few things that weren't exactly... smart. Or well-behaved.
Thorbjörn chuckles and hands you a sack of charcoal.
>Keep it dry to keep the amount of smoke low.
he advises you as you hand him some coins.
You put the sack over your shoulder and head to the next stall, where the bookseller with the fancy hat has set up his store.

>I think this one will be just fitting.
you say, pointing at the 'History of the Roman Empire'. You're not sure how much Lord David likes history, but the illustrations might be a nice touch to it.
>Also, I think we would need some simple books for children, if you could get something like this. They have to start slow, don't they?
you tell the man, who nods.
>Absolutely. I will see what I can do. Just give me a few weeks time, maybe months. Getting a sizeable amount of anything takes time.
You nod. This sounds reasonable. After all, someone has to write and illustrate everything by hand. If there just was a way to make this easier...
He wraps the book in oiled leather, to make it resistant to rain and general wetness and you hand him a few coins, before leaving for the castle.
Back there, you put the presents to the other materials you would like to take with you and inform Maurice of the books you ordered. He nods in agreement.
>That's right. We will need books. And I think you made a reasonable decision.
This sounds good so far. You can't wait to see how this is going to develop over the winter.
Now, you have half a day left, the last one you will spend here until spring.
How do you want to spend it?
[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)

>>1077159
>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.

>>1077159
>Ask for possible political tasks. There has to be something, right?
>Since we are leaving soon, we should do (what?) before.
Check everything is in order.

You decide that you should check on everything important before leaving. After all, you will be away for some time.
Taking a walk around the castle, you check on the food storages which are filled to a good degree. Seems like your various hunts managed to keep them in shape even after the questionable harvest.
The castle itself is in good shape, too. You won't have to rebuild anything in the next few years, which is great, since your lands don't have the type of stone that was used. You would have to import them.
Finally, you enter your stewards' office.
>Hello, Mylord. Checking up on everything?
Lucius asks. You nod.
>We've got everthing in order. The finances are organized, the storages for food and materials are filled and the border guard has taken up their positions. Otherwise, it will be like most winters, I suppose. Mostly uneventful.
Well, this sounds good.
>Well, what do we do if something urgent arises?
you ask your men. Maurice points upwards to the raven loft.
>We will inform you immediately. If you could arrange for some pigeons from La-Roche to be brought to us, it would be mostly guaranteed to work.
he tells you. You nod and make a mental note to ask for some pigeons for now. The ravens haven't memorized their destinations yet, so this will have to do.
>Also, my friend from university, Ulysses should arive soon to begin teaching.
Well, this is good, but leaves you with one question. Where should he work? You don't have a school building of any kind.
>Hold the lessons at the castle. We should have a big enough room that we barely use.
>The number of empty houses has fallen a bit, but we still should have one or two that we could use. Let's get one of these into shape.
>The church is not in use at the moment. With only a bit of fixing, it should be good to go.
>Build a new school. We should have the materials and such, right? Still, it would take some time.
>Use the rooms of the pub. Lessons for the children in the morning, when there are close to no customers. Lessons for the adults in the evening, since they are present anyways.
>Something else? (Write in)

Next, you climb up to the raven loft, where Henry and his workers are holding a lesson, each of them in a thick coat already. Winter is coming, and it's coming fast.
>Oh, Mylord. Good to see you. I already set aside some ravens for you to take with you. Should you need more, just send one of them with a message to us. We will gladly send more ravens and other materials.
You nod. This sounds acceptable.
>Well, who will accompany me? You said you would choose someone.
Henry nods and points at a middle-aged man, who could be a raven himself. Black hair, long nose and not the brightest of tempers.
>Name's Etienne. Pleasure, Mylord.
he introduces himself and you nod in agreement.
>He's the best one you had, Henry?
you ask, making him smile and swell with pride.
>I'm only an average teacher, but he learned very quickly, just like you.
[cont.]

>He can care for ravens in pretty much every aspect that's important for the next few weeks.
Well, this is good news. Since you don't know how much time you will have to care for the ravens, you are happy about every bit of work you don't have to do.
Finally, you decide to bid your parents farewell for now. On the way to the guards' quarters, where they are living now, you meet Damien.
>Hello, Lord Jean. I heard you are leaving tomorrow?
he asks. You nod.
>Indeed, Damien. I will spend the winter at castle La-Roche in the lands of Lord Sang-Valois, Lady Annabelle's father.
Damien looks at you with excitement.
>Another lord? Is he an important one?
You smile and nod again.
>He's the king's second cousin. His daughter is married to the prince. So I think he is pretty important.
Damien's eyes glow with enthusiasm.
>That's amazing! I wish I could travel there with you.
Well, what do you want to answer?
>I think you can. Why don't you come with me? A knight should know how to behave at court. You could learn it there.
>Well, I doubt your mother would be too pleased with this. She sees you very rarely, anyway.
>I know, Damien. But somebody has to care for the horses, right?
>I know how you feel, Damien. But you can't just take a break in your training, can you?
>Something else? (Write in)

Afterwards, you head to the guards' quarters, where you hear a familiar rumbling. Looks like your mother decided to redecorate again.
After knocking, your mother opens, smiling brightly.
>Hello, Jean. Came to say goodbye?
she asks, while your father is mostly grunting under a heavy load of furniture.
>We're redecorating, so it's not it's kind of messy. I hope you don't mind.
You shake your head and enter.
>Hello, sonny. How are you doing?
your dad says after he finally managed to put down all the things he tried to carry at once.
>Well, I wanted to say goodbye, since I will be gone for some time from tomorrow on. Also, I would like to tell you that...

Write in what you want to talk about. Get creative!

>>1077354
>The number of empty houses has fallen a bit, but we still should have one or two that we could use. Let's get one of these into shape.
>I know, Damien. But somebody has to care for the horses, right?

>>1077490
Anything you would like to talk about with your parents?

>>1077528
Apart from saying goodbye and to take care, not really. Tell them they can write to us if they need anything.

>We should have some empty houses around. Why don't we take one of these and put it back into shape?
you tell your stewards. Maurice nods.
>I will see to it. There has to be something that fits our needs.
You nod in agreement. Sounds about right. Still, you would like to have met with this Ulysses guy before he starts teaching. Still, Maurice has recommended him to you, so it should be good.
You thank them for their continued great work and tell them that they may write you with whatever they consider important enough to your attention. Then, you leave the office and turn towards the guards' quarters. There are more people you have to say goodbye to.

>I know that this sounds great, Damien. Still, it's not nearly the way it sounds. It's a lot of formalities and traditions and such. You would get bored, I guess.
Damien looks to the ground sadly.
>Also, somebody has to tend to the horses. I heard you're really good at it.
Now, Damien is back to full attention. He tells you about the various horses and their favourite foods and spots to be pet. You smile and pat his head before continuing to your parents' quarters.
>I'll train really hard while you're away, Lord Jean! You will see!
Damien calls to you across the grounds. You can't help but feel good about this boy's eagerness.

>I'll be gone for a few weeks from tomorrow on, so I wanted to say goodbye. If you need anything, just ask Duncan or someone else from my council. They will help you to the best of their ability.
Your parents hug you for the last time in the next few months. You didn't get to feel this in way too long.
>Also, you can write everytime. If there's something interesting or even if you just want to tell me whatever. If it's important, Henry will help you out with a messenger bird. Otherwise, there should be enough people to deliver it somehow else.
You chat for some more time, before you head to...
Where?
>Your quarters. It's late and you want to be well rested.
>The eastern tower. Just a quick look at tomorrow's weather.
>A special person we should talk to before leaving (who?)
>Just take a stroll around the castle. You will leave for quite some time, so you should soak in all of this a last time.
>The stables. Why not, actually?
>Somewhere else? (Write in)

>>1077721
>Just take a stroll around the castle. You will leave for quite some time, so you should soak in all of this a last time.

>>1077721
>Just take a stroll around the castle. You will leave for quite some time, so you should soak in all of this a last time.

Rolled 4 (1d10)

>>1077745
>>1077766
Alright, the mystery box option. Writing.

You decide that you might as well take a little walk before going to bed. The fresh air will help you fall asleep later.
After a quick stop at the kitchen, where you get yourself a little late-night snack, you walk across the courtyard and up the stairs that lead to the wall's top. Walking along the wall, you let your eyes wander over the village of Saint Michel, illuminated by the light of the moon. Tomorrow will be a pleasant day, as it seems.
After a few more steps, you see a familiar shadow standing near the tower, looking down onto the village, too.
As you draw closer, you can see that your prediction was right. The huge shape was in fact Duncan.
>Good evening, Mylord. Can't sleep either?
he asks. You nod.
>Yeah. With the travel tomorrow and being away for so long, it just became a bit much.
you tell him. Duncan smiles.
>Just like late Lord Jandant. Whenever something important was about to happen, he couldn't sleep well and we met at this place all the time.
Well, you surely didn't know this, even though Lord Jandant would have had to pass your chamber to get outside. Maybe you're a deeper sleeper than you thought?
>This was how I became his closest confidant aside from maybe Missa, too. There were things he always liked to keep secret, but sometimes you just have to talk to someone.
Well, now he's got your interest. What would you like to talk about?
>Write in

Nobody got anything to say?

Can't really think of anything. We've been pretty open as much as we could about everything.
just chit chat i guess.

Alright, guys. I'll pick this up tomorrow around noon (~10 hours)
Until then, feel free to write in whatever you want to know.
Good night and thanks for playing.

>>1077880
>I worry Duncan, I once told Annabele that it is useless to worry about the future and that the only thing we can do is to prepare for it. Yet, it troubles me still. Sometimes I feel that I have not done enough; that I have not done what is best for this realm. Lord Jandant was a great man, a man all of us should be grateful to call "Lord" and when he passed such greatness created a void so vast it drove people away. And it is that void that I'm supposed to fill, me a lowborn squire elevated to a Lord because he is stupid enough to stay by his Lord's side. If he is watching right now would he smile at the choices I have made or would he weep as I am swallowed by that very same void? Of allthings in God's green Earth that question terrifies me more than anything.

>You know what troubles me, Duncan? The future. You'll never know what might come.
you say while looking over Saint Michel.
>A good man like Lord Jandant was struck with so much grievance that no one could have forseen. His wife dead, his son dead, himself being struck down by disease...
Duncan nods.
>That's true. We'll never know what might happen. But we can always prepare for what might come, right?
You shrug.
>Well, that's difficult to say. I did the best I could for the realm, but still I feel like I never did enough. What if Lord Jandant's fate hits me the like? Will I create another void that can hardly be filled? Will the realm fall to this?
Duncan shakes his head.
>I know those fears. Lord Jandant always was frightened about what might happen to the realm, too. Still, I think he's with the Lord Allmighty now and smiling down at the things you do.
You can't help but shrug.
>But can we say for sure? Am I doing what is right? Will I have the good fortune that eluded him?
Suddenly, you feel a weight on your shoulder. Upon inspection, you see that it is Duncan's hand.
>Please excuse my inappropriateness. Jean, do you remember the first lesson Lord Jandant taught you? Back on the day he raised you to his squire?
You have to think for a moment, but then remember it like it had been only yesterday.
>No matter what happens, always give the things you do your best. If you succeed, it will be victory, if you fail, you won't have to feel shame, since you did your best. That was the lesson, right?
Duncan nods.
>Absolutely. We don't know what might come, but giving it anything but our best would be shameful. And I think you will do great at the mission before you.
Well, this is true. You thank him for the support and he nods.
>No reason to thank me. But there is another little hint I would like to give you.
Well, what does he want to teach you now?
>Even if the service to the realm is important, never forget about yourself. If you aren't happy, how can the realm be?
You talk some more about the task of restoring the realm, Duncan sharing some more of his wisdom with you. Finally, both of you feel sufficiently tired to go to bed.
Once the morning comes, you get up and pack up the last few things you need for the oncoming months before heading down to the courtyard, where a cart full with various materials is ready to leave, just like your escort with their various horses.
>We take the cart, Lord Jean.
Ulf and Miroslav inform you. This sounds reasonable. They don't have any horses on their own, so they would have needed a way of transportation anyway.
You get on your horse that Damien brought out for you, then look over your escort.
Annabelle and her maids are on their horses already, just like Alphonse and the soldiers of your escort.
>Alright, Mylord. We're ready to leave.
Alphonse tells you.
Are there any words of goodbye you would like to say to your assembled court?
>Write in

>>1080878
Take care of the realm. I believe in you all.

Sorry, I have zero inspiration today.

>I will be gone for a while, but my creed will not. Together, we can make this realm glorious again. Take care of each other and the realm as a whole, until I return. I believe in you.
you tell the people all around the court. They cheer for you as you leave the court waving at all of them. Duncan, Missa, Lucius, Maurice, Henry, your parents... It's only been an hour of riding, but you miss them already.
Still, in only five days of time, you will see other friends of yours again. You can deal with that.
[I will speed up the pace of the game for the time of the travel at least. Also, I will substitute the time of your education with little mini-quests. Writing 'you learned stuff' a hundred times doesn't sound too appealing.]
What do you want to focus on during the days of travel?
>You can talk to one or more persons on the road (write in who). What do you want to talk about?
>You do something in the cities you make stops at. (Do what? If you wish, I could give you some possible options. Just say so.)
>Maybe you want to do something else, too. What would that be? (Write in)

>>1081354
>make this realm glorious again
Yes. When do we start the wall?

>You do something in the cities you make stops at. (Do what? If you wish, I could give you some possible options. Just say so.)
Options please.

>>1081354
>Lets try reading on the road.
I imagine it'll be slower than usual but still productive.

>>1081354
>You do something in the cities you make stops at. (Do what? If you wish, I could give you some possible options. Just say so.)

yes for options, thanks.

>>1081448
You already built the wall. Just more... efficient. With the improved 'tax collection offices', you made the border to Dupont and Daymarque impassable without your consent. Which is what walls are about, right?

Well, you could...
>Look for presents for anyone who didn't get anything yet. Or someone who already got something. (Something better than coal for Ari? Something better than the book for David? Something for Annabelle, who didn't get anything? A wedding gift for Lord de Pierre?) This is possible in Durnholm and Murat-sur-les Pleins.
>Meet up with your friend Enrico di Fermi in Murat. You didn't see each other for months.
>Meet up with Klaus Schultze in Murat. You could learn a lot from him, probably.
>Meet up with Father Amadee in Murat. After all, one of his acolytes will soon be under your command. It would be considered nice to ask about him.
Write-ins are always encouraged.

>>1081479
>>Look for presents for anyone who didn't get anything yet. Or someone who already got something. Something for Annabelle, who didn't get anything

>Meet up with your friend Enrico di Fermi in Murat. You didn't see each other for months.

>Meet up with Father Amadee in Murat. After all, one of his acolytes will soon be under your command. It would be considered nice to ask about him.

short meetings with the two of them if we can manage it? enough to be polite and all that and still get business done. Not sure what to get Annabelle though....

>>1081479
>Look for presents for anyone who didn't get anything yet. Or someone who already got something. A wedding gift for Lord de Pierre?
>Meet up with your friend Enrico di Fermi in Murat. You didn't see each other for months.
>Meet up with Father Amadee in Murat. After all, one of his acolytes will soon be under your command. It would be considered nice to ask about him.

>>1081486
>>1081497
Sure, two visits should be possible. After all, you don't have too much luggage to slow you down.
Do I take it that you would like to shop for presents in Durnholm then?

>>1081503
Yes.

It's been three days of riding so far. Your company seems to be in a good mood, though. Maria is talking about her husband, Marine tells you about a cute stable boy she likes and Alphonse and you talk about swordfighting and pugilism a lot.
Finally, the walls and houses of Durnholm come into sight. Well, this time your visit will be a lot less... secret, you guess. After all, there's not much of a slave market anymore, which requires your people to be freed from.
Taking up residence in the same inn you rested in the last two times you came here, you decide to use the last few hours of the day to get some presents that you feel like you are missing.
Durnholm isn't as fancy as Murat, but you think it will do. Around the market, where farmers, hunters and many more are selling their wares, you find a few shops that might have what you desire.
Which shops do you want to go to? You are searching for presents for Annabelle and Armand de Pierre.
>The book shop. This is a safe call for Annabelle. Maybe there is something interesting for Armand, too?
>The armory. The de Pierres are known for their superior metalwork, but maybe something from our lands can hold up to it? (Roll 1d20+1 for your evaluation of goods. Bo3, as always.)
>A tailor. Maybe there is a nice dress for Annabelle? Or something Armand might need?
>The carpentry shop looks good. Also, it might help us with showing off our people's strengths.
>We might have to look somewhere else (Where?). None of this is too convincing.

>>1081613
need?
>The carpentry shop looks good. Also, it might help us with showing off our people's strengths.

>>1081613
>The carpentry shop looks good. Also, it might help us with showing off our people's strengths.

>>1081633
Who needs what?

>>1081648
Copy paste error for get that

You decide that the carpentry shop looks promising. After all, wood is incredibly versatile.
>Good evening, Mylord. How can I help you today?
the man behind the counter greets you. He's got an impressively twirled mustache, just like your foreman at the logging camp.
>I need some presents and thought that I might as well show off the great strengths of my realm.
The man nods and gets up from his chair behind the counter.
>So, who do you need something for?
he asks, walking towards you.
>Well, first of all, my bethrothed might want something. If you had something for a lady, this might be great. Also, a friend of mine is going to marry soon. What would you recommend for a lord of roughly your age?
The man collects his thoughts and leads you to the various tables on which some of his works are presented.
>Well, this is all I have for now. I'm not sure what to get for anyone noble, since I'm just a commoner myself. Maybe you want to look for something suitable?
You look over the table and find a few things that might be good for Annabelle.
>A dark, wooden hair clip, adorned with various carvings and inlays of other, lighter types of wood.
>A wooden bookstand. Not very fancy, but useful if you don't want to hold your book yourself.
>A set of various wooden cooking utensils. She had a lot of fun, cooking with us, right?
>None of these are very convincing. Tell me, do you have (what?)
>All of this isn't exactly what I am looking for. I think I'll just get her a book.
>Something else? (Write in)

Also, you find a few things interesting to Lord de Pierre.
>Some high-quality weapon shafts. They can make the metal parts, but import most of their wood from our lands, anyway.
>A wooden jigsaw puzzle. He's a thinker, so he should enjoy this.
>A wooden set of children's toys. He's not a father yet, but he might need it soon.
>All of this seems pretty small for a wedding gift. Don't you have anything bigger?
>I'm not sure anything of this is fitting. Tell me, do you do contract work?
>Something else? (Write in)

---------------------------------------------------------------------
Well, guys... That's it for tonight. I got a dentist's appointment in the morning again, so I should pick this up in around twelve hours. Feel free to vote until then. Good night and thanks for playing.

>>1081875
>A dark, wooden hair clip, adorned with various carvings and inlays of other, lighter types of wood.

>A wooden jigsaw puzzle. He's a thinker, so he should enjoy this.
>A wooden set of children's toys. He's not a father yet, but he might need it soon.

>>1082817
Seconding this.

>>1082817
>>1084711
Alright, guys. Writing. Sorry for the delay, but pretty much everything went wrong at the dentist. I can't eat or speak too much at the moment and such.

>Well, I think my bethrothed will just love this hair clip. It's truly masterful work.
you tell the man, who thanks you for the compliment and lays out what different kinds of wood he used for this.
>Also, I think this jigsaw puzzle is a wonderful gift for my friend. He's a thinker, so he should enjoy this. And also, these children's toys look great. I'll take them, too.
The man nods and begins to wrap up the various things you decided to buy.
>So, he's a father yet?
he asks, interestedly. You shake your head.
>Not yet, but who knows how fast things progress after the wedding?
you answer. He chuckles.
>That's right. My oldest son was born just ten months after I married my wife.
You hand him a few coins and head out. Looks like you were just in time, since most of the vendors on the market left already.
You head back to the inn and...
>Give Annabelle her gift. This way, she might show it off, once we arrive.
>Keep it for now. Give it to her on the day that David and Ariadne get theirs, too.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1085107
>Keep it for now. Give it to her on the day that David and Ariadne get theirs, too.

You head back to the inn and put the new gifts to the ones you got already.
It will look more... proper if Annabelle gets her gift along with her father and sister, probably.
The next morning, you get up early and pick up the pace a bit more that yesterday. After all, you will be in Murat this evening. If you are fast enough, you might meet up with all the people you didn't see for some time. Father Amadee, Enrico... You just have to be there soon enough.
It's only some time after noon, so you should be able to meet with both of the people you wished to visit.
Now, you only need a place to stay for the night. Where do you want to stay?
>There's a good inn here. We stayed here already. Also, Enrico tends to go here for a drink or two after his shift. It would cost a few coins, though...
>We could stay at the church. They didn't charge us anything last time, and we could surely meet Amadee here. Still, we don't know if we are welcome at the guests' quarters without an emergency like we had last time...
>Another option? (Write in)

Also, write in what you would like to talk about with Amadee, the head priest of Murat, and Enrico, the head of the city watch.

>>1085477
Let's stay at the inn. No need to intrude upon the church without need

>>1085477
>There's a good inn here. We stayed here already. Also, Enrico tends to go here for a drink or two after his shift. It would cost a few coins, though...

Ask Enrico about the possible war.

>>1085477
>There's a good inn here. We stayed here already. Also, Enrico tends to go here for a drink or two after his shift. It would cost a few coins, though...

You decide to stay at the inn. Their food was just too tasty and their beds too comfortable. Also, you don't want to abuse the church's generosity.
Since Sir Enrico is still on patrol, you decide to visit the church first. Just a few moments after entering, Father Amadee already comes towards you, greeting you enthusiastically.
>Welcome, Lord de Labendai. How did you fare since we last saw each other?
You tell him about all the new people in your holdings, your economy and harvest. At the harvest part, he looks worried, but after you told him of the various hunts that supplemented the missing wheat, he looks relieved.
>So you made sure that nobody in your province has to go hungry? That's a great deed, Lord Jean. Not every ruler thinks about his subjects this much.
You simply shrug. It felt like the right thing to do, after all.
>Well, just like the Lord Jesus himself said: I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!
You don't know much from the bible, since you never learned latin, so you thoroughly enjoy this translation. Seems like you did the right thing in the last few months. Still, you feel like learning latin sometimes.
>How is brother Felix doing? Are there any news?
you ask Amadee. The priest smiles and nods.
>Absolutely. His report card came some days ago. Do you want to take a look?
Brother Felix seems to be even better than you suspected him to be. He's got great marks in anything theological, but is great at various sciences and languages as well. The only thing he is slightly below average is the mathematics sector. Still, you wanted a priest, not an accountant.
>Truly impressive, I have to say.
you add with an agreeing nod.
>This report card is the last one before his final exams. The next six months, he will prepare for these. If he manages to pass, which is what I am counting on, he should come to your lands in August, I think.
Well, this is good news. Felix will arrive at a time which you are spending at your holdings, which will surely help with your bond.
>By the way, what position did you think of that he should fill?
Father Amadee asks.
Well, actually you did think about this already. You don't just hire people out of the blue, right?
>My lands are currently lacking greatly in priests and such. He will run the church at my capital.
>He's greatly skilled in various topics. He will serve as a part of my council, teaching and advising me directly.
>Well, actually I didn't think about this too much. What would you say he should do?
>Something else? A combination? (Write in)

>>1085912
>Something else? A combination? (Write in)

>My lands are currently lacking greatly in priests and such. He will run the church at my capital.
>He's greatly skilled in various topics. He will serve as a part of my council, teaching and advising me directly.

>>1085912
>My lands are currently lacking greatly in priests and such. He will run the church at my capital.

>Well, first of all I need a priest. My people can't do without the proper guidance forever. Still, simply being a priest would be a waste of his talents. He should be an advisor to me directly.
you say. Father Amadee nods in agreement.
>Well said, Lord Jean. I'm sure that Felix will be greatly helpful to many a cause.
You chat for some more time, before you excuse yourself to return to your inn.
Back at the inn, you find your friend Enrico di Fermi sitting at a table, drinking the same dark ale as always.
Ordering a pint yourself, you sit down at his table.
>Good evening, Enrico. How was work today?
you ask. He shrugs.
>Nothing much. A pub brawl or two, but that's about it. If you're a guard, doing your job well means making it progressively more boring.
You smile and nod at that well found metaphor. But there is a topic you would like to discuss with someone familiar with war.
>So, what do you think about the situation with Lord Daymarque and Lord Dupont?
you ask. Enrico shrugs.
>Not as much as you might think I do. They won't cross our borders, no matter what happens. A big realm, great soldiers and a blood relationship between our lord and the king are a good point for pretty much everyone.
Well, he's not wrong. Maybe a few deserters might enter these lands, but they should be not much of a threat, considering the general situation of the Sang-Valois lands.
>Still, I see why you are worried. Your lands have lost in size and population. Even a few deserters might cause trouble, if they are well trained.
Well, this is true. Twenty deserters with moderate fighting skill might be a massive problem already, considering that you only have a hundred soldiers at best.
>Well, what would you recommend to me if I want to be as safe as possible?
you ask Enrico. He shrugs.
>From my experience as a knight, mercenary and soldier I would say you should try to keep the fight from happening somehow. This way, there will be no deserters or conquerings made.
Calling to the king for aid was the first thing you did. Will he be able to put this down in time, somehow?
>In case fighting is not to be avoided, you should see if you could control the entry to your realm to avoid any troublemakers entering.
Seems like you did well with this, too. The improved border guard should be able to strike down any trouble.
>And should they actually manage to enter your lands, make sure they meet some resistance. This might make them think twice.
Looks like you did everything right, actually. The militia is the final straw to keep your realm safe.
>In the worst of all cases, we're here, too. Your friends back at La-Roche and Murat will come to your aid, should you ever have to request it.
You nod in agreement.
>Just like we will come to your aid, should you call us. Whyever you would do so, considering the circumstances.
Your share a good laugh and after some more chatting, you head to your room. After all, there's a last bit of travel to be made.
[cont.]

The next day, you wake up early again and hit the road immediately after breakfast.
It's noon when you arrive at castle La-Roche. Again, you are greeted by Gerard, the steward.
>Welcome back, Lord de Labendai. And of course you too, Lady Annabelle.
He leads you to the courtyard, where you get off your horses and some stable boys lead them inside. They surely deserve this rest.
Now, Lord de Labendai, I have prepared a bath for you, should you wish to clean off the dust of the road. Also, there's food and drinks, should you wish for lunch. Or would you like to meet up with Lord Sang-Valois immediately?
Well, this man is asking the right questions. What do you want to do?
>Take a bath and get into some fresh clothes. You're dusty from the road.
>Eat lunch. You're pretty hungry.
>Meet up with Lord Sang-Valois first. It's appropriate to greet him first, right?
>Something else? (Write in)

And that's it for tonight.
The second to last row before the options is said, too. Just saying.
I'm somewhat busy tomorrow, so I might not be able to run. Still, I should be back on Thursday around noon, right after my check-up at the dentist. I'll let you know on Twitter, should anything change with the times. Until then, feel free to vote.
Good night and thanks for playing.

>>1086230
>>Meet up with Lord Sang-Valois first. It's appropriate to greet him first, right?
Seems appropriate to greet our friend and future father in law, even if we excuse our selves shortly thereafter to bathe.

>>1086230
>Meet up with Lord Sang-Valois first. It's appropriate to greet him first, right?

Hey guys, I'm back. I'll be writing immediately.

>I would like to meet with Lord Sang-Valois first. We didn't see each other in quite some time.
you say and Gerard nods.
>Absolutely. We scheduled the official welcome for later, but I'll ask if he has some free time at the moment.
he says. You agree and Gerard leaves to return five minutes later, with Lord Sang-Valois in tow.
>Welcome back home, Annabelle!
he calls out, as he storms forward at his daughter, hugging her eagerly. Much to her embarassment, you can say. Still, it's been three months.
>How did you do? How is Saint Michel like? Are the people treating you right?
Now, he's storming her with questions. Annabelle keeps her calm and answers in a calm, reasonable manner.
>I did great. Saint Michel is nice, though it could use a bigger library. The people are very nice to me. I even learned something new. Did you know that cooking can be great fun?
Her father seems to slowly recover from the overwhelming joy, as he simply nods and smiles.
>Just like a good housewife.
he jokes and is immediately hit in the arm by Annabelle. Looks like she and her big sister have something in common. They are very proud of their ranks as fighters or scholars.
>Don't call me a housewife again. Else I'll tell Ari!
Annabelle threatens jokingly. Finally, Lord Sang-Valois turns to you.
>Sorry to have kept you waiting like this. It was very inappropriate.
You shrug. It's no big deal, right?
>You didn't see each other for three months. I think most people would act like you did.
After this answer, you are met with another smile. Looks like you said the right thing.
>And how did you do? How is the realm?
You give him a quick report about the harvest, new additions to your court, important buildings and such. He nods in agreement, but his eyes seems more... amazed?
>I knew you were talented when I first saw you, Jean. But you exceeded my expectations greatly. Not everyone could have coped with a harvest like this.
After some more chatting, you excuse yourself for some food and a bath. Traveling is a dirty job sometimes.
>Of course. Take all the time you need. Once you and your men are reasonably settled, we will meet up all together. You, me, Ariadne, Annabelle... Just like the first time you came here.
Well, this sounds reasonable. But still, he brought up a good point.
>How is Ariadne doing?
you ask. He shakes his head, but with a grin.
>Don't ride for a month, they said. Get some rest, they said. I can't understand how she could stand on the training grounds only a week after again. Still, the wound has healed well. I don't understand how she's doing this.
You chuckle. Yeah, this sounds like Ariadne.
>By the way, Jean... did you grow a few inches? You look more... mature.
He's right, you grew a bit. This would explain your increased appetite during the last few months. But which way did you grow?
[cont.]

>The spear. You got higher, but not broader. If this continues, you might stand at six and a half inches, most likely more. Still, you will always be slender in frame.
>The tower. You grew a bit wider in the shoulders, but this is barely noticeable due to your increased height. You will probably stand at six and a half feet. You're not as impressively big as a spear, but less frail-looking.
>The dwarf. The first bit of facial hair has begun growing, making your body look more intimidating that it would be with a height of five and a half feet alone. Still, your shoulders are pretty wide, giving you a strong appearance.
>The bear. Height and width increased drastically. If this continues, you will look just like a viking of the north, a nice beard included. Still, how will you handle this change of proportions?
>The child king. Actually, you didn't grow much, but your aura is so regal that nobody seems to mind. Still small and frail, you make up for it with charisma and dexterity.
>The mercenary. Your proportions stayed mostly the same, even though you will come to stand six feet. You can deal with this, as it suits your usual fighting style pretty well.
>Something else? (Write in)

This is an important choice, so I will wait until three people have voted for one body type. Choose wisely, as it can't be changed later

>>1091196
>The tower. You grew a bit wider in the shoulders, but this is barely noticeable due to your increased height. You will probably stand at six and a half feet. You're not as impressively big as a spear, but less frail-looking.

No other opinions? Or am I just too early for the usual players?

>>1091196
The bear

>>1091591
Sorry, didn't see you running earlier

>>1091196
>The acrobat, lean with a body composed of tight corded muscle, utilizes dexterity and agility.
If no one is going for this then,
>The merc

>>1091196
>Something else? (The Trap)
You've grown a bit taller and wider, but mostly in your legs, hips, and ass. Your face has formed slender and your lips rather pouty, as well as your skin being smooth and mostly hairless

>>1092413
Kek

So we got one tower, one bear and one acrobat so far? Nice to see you're here guys.

>>1092522
My internet died last night, I would have voted earlier if it wasn't for that

>>1092522
>>The mercenary. Your proportions stayed mostly the same, even though you will come to stand six feet. You can deal with this, as it suits your usual fighting style pretty well.

OR if that isn't winning...

>The bear. Height and width increased drastically. If this continues, you will look just like a viking of the north, a nice beard included. Still, how will you handle this change of proportions?


I either want us to be some Reinhardt looking motherfucker and have to learn a new style or to be competent at our current style. The rest have their own benefits but these seem the best.

>>1092522
Dice, perhaps? Just to move things along

>>1092522
Okay, I'll go with
>The tower. You grew a bit wider in the shoulders, but this is barely noticeable due to your increased height. You will probably stand at six and a half feet. You're not as impressively big as a spear, but less frail-looking.

Now, it looks like we got two towers, two mercenaries and something between one and two bears. Looks like the next vote will possibly decide this.

>>1092656
>not wanting to be a giant amongst manlets
We'll tower over everyone, the average height was like 5'5 at this point or sometihng

>>1092670
>wanting to go through the hassle of learning a new fighting style

>>1092676
Fighting style won't change that much, and the gain is much more higher than the loss.

So, is there a decision yet? Or should I possible roll, despite my earlier claims?

>>1092847
These people are dumb, just go with Tower

>>1092847
I stand by my prior conditional vote.

>>1092875
You're dumb, think about our children

>>1092847
I stand by my choice.
because I want to be Nightwing

Rolled 2 (1d3)

Looks like the dice will have to decide again.
1=Tower
2=Bear
3=Mercenary
Each class is up to interpretation to a certain degree. Just so you don't kill each other. Or worse, me.

>>1092952
Oh yes, now we must become french Reinhardt and wield a giant weapon against our enemies!

>>1092965
Who?

>>1092970
From overwatch? The guy with the massive hammer? Speaks in a German accent?

>>1093059
>overwatch
Fucking kill yourself

Well, guys... The next post will come in tomorrow around noon. I would have played for another hour or two, but my medication tells me to take a quick nap of ten hours.
Thank you for playing with me anyway, tomorrow will be more... anything. Good night and see you then.

>>1093135
How tall is Bear mode?

>>1093135
Thanks, buddy.

>>1093159
Somewhat like the tower, maybe an inch smaller. But for your current size, this is a dramatic improvement.

>Now that you say it, I did. Still, I didn't notice too much of it. Just an increased appetite.
you say, making both of you chuckle.
Still, you got taller, nearly seven inches already, making you nearly medium sized already. But you're pretty certain that this will continue for a while.
Also, the last months have made your shoulders grow wider, since you finally could train and work as much as you liked again. Lord Jandant's illness threw off your training routine quite a bit.
Also, some facial hair has begun to grow, but you have shaved it so far. Still, if you let it grow, you would surely have an impressive beard soon, maybe you could braid it, like Wulfgar and some of his men do. You wonder if Annabelle likes beards...
>You know what, Jean? If you grow another foot or so, you would quite remind me of Jandant.
Lord Sang-Valois says. Well, you can understand why he would say this. You might not have his hair or eyes, but you've heard that you radiate a similiar aura before. Now, if you got just as big as he was, you would be an impressive sight to behold.
>But enough of the chatter. You must be tired from your travels. Why don't you take a bath and eat some lunch?
This sounds like a good plan. One you had already, but nearly forgot over so many things to talk about.
After a bath and some honey-glazed boar, which you would have prepared exactly like this, you recognize, you meet up with Lord Sang-Valois in the great hall. He's sitting in the same old chair as always, Annabelle on his left, Ariadne on his right.
>Welcome to my lands, Lord de Labendai. How was your travel?
Lord David begins the formalities. You smile and nod. You know what to do by now.
>I am thankful for the opportunity to be here. My travel was rather pleasant, thank you. I brought all of you a little... greeting from my realm.
you say and turn around to your men who bring the presents.
Now, it's only a matter of presentation. How do you want to hand...
>Ariadne the coal? Bring it yourself? Rather keep your distance, should she be in a non-humorous mood? Explain?
>David the book? Bring it yourself? Have someone bring it? Show him a thing or two? Let him see for his own?
>Annabelle the hair clip? Just bring it? Put it in her hair yourself? Have someone bring it?
All of these are open for write-ins.

>>1094749
First give David the book yourself, then the coal to Ari but keep your distance for how she reacts. Finally wait a little and put the clip in Annabelle's hair to further surprise her. And give everyone a little explanation about their presents since we are so good at speeches.

Alright. Roll me 1d20+1 for your explanation's quality. Best of three, as always.

Next post might take a while. Something came up.
I would like to say that it shouldn't take long, but whenever I do, it takes twice as long.

Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>1094920

File: soldier.jpg (271 KB, 419x1000)

271 KB JPG

Rolled 4 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1094920

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

46 KB JPG

Rolled 1 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1094920

You take the book and head up the stairs, towards Lord Sang-Valois.
>Of course, I didn't come empty handed. For you, whose lands are famous for the best artists and artisans, I got this book. I think you will come to like it.
Lord Sang-Valois takes the book and opens it, carefully going through a few pages. Once the first illustration comes around, he nods in agreement.
>Truly, a good choice you made. This will be a pleasant read.
[Good choice, medium relationship boost with David Sang-Valois]
Next, you grab the sack and head towards Ariadne.
>You remember my last gift to you?
you ask her. She nods.
>Yeah. The sword. Good idea, but a bit short for my taste.
Taking the sack from your shoulder, you place it in front of her.
>Well, I think that you might want to use this, then. It might help you with creating something that suits your tastes.
Ariadne steps forward and opens the sack. You slowly back up a bit.
>Coal? Is this some kind of joke, wimp?
she asks. You try to smile as innocently as you can.
>But I guess it could be used for smithing. Or heating. It's winter, right?
Looks like she didn't take it too ill. Still, calling you a wimp isn't something you can leave unpunished.
>Also, coal is a gift for misbehaving children. During my last visit, I got a little... impression of your behaviour, helping with this choice.
Now, you've done it. The whole court erupts into laughter, even the stern steward Gerard cracks a smile. The only one who isn't just as amused is Ariadne.
>Funny. Not. Meet me outside and I'll show you my best behaviour. With a mace.
Well, this is just too tempting. But should you accept this 'invitation' of hers?
>Yeah. We can't let a challenge unanswered.
>Sounds about reasonable. We need to get her a more humble mindset.
>We really shouldn't. We can't risk her to get hurt again.
>Do we have time for this? I think our schedule might be a bit tight.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1095765
>Sounds about reasonable. We need to get her a more humble mindset.
>Something else? (Write in)
"Have you fully healed? I wouldn't like to aggravate any wounds before they are fully healed..."

>>1095844
This. Can't leave a challenge sitting on the table like that.

You take a concerned look at Lord Sang-Valois, who answers with a simple shrug. Looks like Ariadne is in an acceptable condition again.
>I accept, Ariadne. Let us meet outside and settle this. But first...
you say as you head towards Annabelle, who has been somewhat absent-minded. Looks like she didn't expect to be involved in this too much.
>I have a final gift to the most beautiful lady in my life.
You pull out the hair clip and hold it in front of her for a few moments. Annabelle smiles brightly. Looks like you met her taste big time.
With a swift motion, you put it in her hair, before bowing and walking back to your original position first.
>Well, looks like I am ready. Bring it on, Ariadne.
Looks like you threw her focus off, as she has to shake herself first. Then, both of you head to the training grounds just outside the castle, followed by most of the court. Seems like both of you are considered good entertainment.
>Alright, wimp! Time to teach you a lesson!
Ariadne proclaims, drawing her massive broadsword. Well, actually it looks a bit less massive, now that you've started to grow. You might even be able to lift it. Still, properly handling it would require some more growth and a good amount of training.
Since it looks like this will be a simple fight on foot, you draw your shortsword and put your shield in front of you. Time to teach her humility, you say to yourself.
The fight begins. How do you want to open it?
>Wait for what she is doing. We need to see what she is up to.
>Charge her. At close range, her broadsword can't do much.
>Stand and counter. Basically, this is like fighting Alphonse, but slower, isn't it?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1096161
>Stand and counter. Basically, this is like fighting Alphonse, but slower, isn't it?

>>1096161
Stand and counter

>>1096247
>>1096307
Alright, guys. Roll me 2d20+1 for your success. Best of three.
Also, I'll be busy all day tomorrow. Therefore, I will be able to return on sunday, most likely in the evening. Until then, good night and thank you for playing!

Rolled 8, 3 + 1 = 12 (2d20 + 1)

>>1096358

File: Charles Martel.png (2.15 MB, 1280x1053)

2.15 MB PNG

Rolled 20, 16 + 1 = 37 (2d20 + 1)

>>1096358

Rolled 4, 4 + 1 = 9 (2d20 + 1)

>>1096358

>>1096658
Damn, son. You went full crusade on her! Writing.

Ariadne seems to take your waiting as hesitation, which you can understand. After all, you were pretty nervous about her last injury.
After some seconds of waiting, she raises her blade and starts charging at you.
You analyze the situation quickly. She's not as fast as Alphonse, but possibly hitting harder, since her weapon is two-handed. Blocking it wouldn't be the way to go, probably.
Taking a deep breath, you relax your body. As Ariadne is closing in, you step out of the way and hit her wrist with your sword.
The metal dents, and with a yelp of pain, she drops her sword to the ground. Still, it doesn't look like you gave her any lasting damage. That's a good thing.
Quickly, you follow up with a shield bash to her side. Looks like you underestimated your growth, especially regarding your strength. While she simply fell over from the vibrations the last time you did this, Ariadne is now lifted off the ground and falls down a foot or two away.
Looks like this battle is decided. Again.
What do you want to do?
>Make her surrender. We can't risk hurting her again.
>Let her get up. This was nothing so far.
>Take some distance before she gets up again. You doubt she'll give up easily.
>Something else? (Write in)

File: Caesar In Gaul Art.jpg (922 KB, 2000x1178)

922 KB JPG

>>1104744
>Take some distance before she gets up again. You doubt she'll give up easily.

>>1104744
Should just update now, in my opinion.

>>1104773
Might be right about updating. I'll get to it right away.

You decide to take some distance. Ariadne never was someone to take losses too easy. Maybe you upset her pretty bad?
It takes a while for her to get up, but you can see the fervor in it. She wants to keep going at all costs.
>Now, you're going to suffer, wimp.
Ariadne calls out, raising her sword. Looks like you're right. She is angry now. This might get harder. Or easier, if you do it right.
How do you want to meet her charge?
>Stand and counter. It worked once already, right?
>Avoid her, so she exhausts herself. This angry mindset might hurt us. Badly.
>Counter-charge. We've been getting stronger, so we might take her off her feet again.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1104816
>Avoid her, so she exhausts herself. This angry mindset might hurt us. Badly.
Try getting a few parries in to keep her interested, like a bullfighter

>>1104824
Alright, roll me 1d20+2 for your success. Best of three.

File: elsabet.jpg (128 KB, 750x1000)

128 KB JPG

Rolled 12 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>1104843
I'm leaving soon and will be gone for a few hours, probably

Rolled 12 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>1104843

>>1104845
As a German, I wholeheartedly love this picture. Incorrectly depicturing my culture as a whole my ass. I love it.

Rolled 2 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>1104843

Once Ariadne closes the distance, you make a quick step to the side, letting her swing hit thin air. She stops herself, readying another mighty blow, which you also dodge. And another.
This goes on for a while. Once in a while, she scrapes along your chainmail, but barely manages to have you notice it, let alone actually hurt you.
>Stand... and.... fight, wimp.
Ariadne groans between her clenched teeth. In response, you dodge another blow and step back a bit. Looks like she's getting more tired than she was angry.
How do you want to go on with this?
>End it. This has taken too long already.
>This has just begun to be fun. We should continue this fight.
>We didn't get to play out our improved swordsmanship so far. Maybe take the offense and show her what we learned?
>Something else? (Write in)

File: Jeanne d'Arc.jpg (91 KB, 464x640)

91 KB JPG

>>1105037
>We didn't get to play out our improved swordsmanship so far. Maybe take the offense and show her what we learned?
Make her want to work harder to become our master of arms (^:

File: IMG 15 (1).jpg (36 KB, 374x375)

36 KB JPG

>>1105037
Hello?

>>1105037
>We didn't get to play out our improved swordsmanship so far. Maybe take the offense and show her what we learned?

>>1105192
>>1105291
Sorry for the delay, roll me 3d20+2 for your swordsmanship appliance. Best of three.

Rolled 8, 18, 2 + 2 = 30 (3d20 + 2)

>>1105307

Next post might take a bit, something came up again.

Rolled 12, 15, 20 + 2 = 49 (3d20 + 2)

>>1105307

Rolled 15, 7, 12 + 2 = 36 (3d20 + 2)

Hey guys, I'm back. Here's the last roll, so we can continue.

You learned a lot about swordplay from Alphonse, but never really got the chance to show it to anyone. But now, the chance is there.
Over the last few training sessions, you saw your attack speed rising, although it doesn't match Alphonse's yet. Still, Ariadne is slowed by her heavy armor and heavy two-handed blade.
You counter her charge with a quick charge yourself, throwing yourself to the side at the last moment, perfectly avoiding her swing and delivering a massive hit to her shoulder, making the sword in her hand vibrate.
Now that you are behind her, you don't have to worry about counters or parries, allowing you to easily deck her with a few blows, each of them leaving a big dent in her armor.
Finally, you turn to face her other side now, hooking your sword under her sword's hand guard, sending it flying. Ariadne, who already was stumbling from the backside assault, loses her balance again, and falls into the dirt face first.
This battle looks like it's over. But do you want it to be over?
>Yes. You don't want her to get hurt.
>Yes, you have been showing off everything you wanted to.
>No, she needs to learn humility. Throwing her into the dirt a few more time might do it for sure, right?
>No, she wouldn't want to quit yet. Let's allow her to continue.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1105716
>Yes. You don't want her to get hurt.

You take a step back and breathe in deeply.
>Ariadne!
you call out to her.
>You have seen what I can do. I don't want to hurt you in any way and I feel like we are getting way too close to it, should we continue. Please, do me the favour and surrender. This fight is over.
Ariadne lifts herself to her hands and knees.
>Damn... this shouldn't have happened. I trained so damn hard all the time. Why did I lose anyway?
A single tear is running down her face and she wipes it away with a strand of her long, fiery red hair.
>Okay, you've won. I surrender. As much as I hate to admit it.
You reach out with your hand to help Ariadne to her feet. She just shakes her head and gets up herself, groaning from exhaustion and humiliation.
>Thanks, though. I just felt like I had to do this myself. But honestly, how did you get so good?
What do you want to tell her?
>I just trained very hard all the time. Determination is key, right?
>I'm not sure. Maybe I'm just a quick learner?
>Well, I surely couldn't have done it without Alphonse's help. He's a true master of the sword.
>Something else? (Write in)

Also, you won four bonus experience dice [1d10] for your swordmanship. Roll them along with your vote. One at a time, as always. [Swordsmanship mastery: 63/100]

Rolled 9 (1d10)

>>1105957
>I'm not sure. Maybe I'm just a quick learner?

>>1105957
>Something else? (Write in)
"A mix of things, I am still growing and that has lead to me getting stronger, having greater reach but has also cost me some of my agility.

There is also the fact I picked up a new training partner, called Alphonse; a true master of the sword better than even me. Chances are if I was using another weapon it would have been a very close fight. Possibly even ending in my defeat."

Rolled 5 (1d10)

>>1105957
>I'm not sure. Maybe I'm just a quick learner?

Rolled 4 (1d10)

Here's a third die. If someone rolled the last one (and added another opinion, if this someone liked to do so), we could continue.

Rolled 6 (1d10)

>>1106343
here.

This battle was intense. You feel like you finally got the chance to apply so many things you never really could, since you were mostly occupied with finding a way to match with Alphonse's speed.
[Swordsmanship mastery: 87/100]
>Well, you know... I've always been learning quick. Also, I got someone to help me with training. Alphonse over there is a master of the sword unlike anyone I ever met.
Ariadne glances in the direction you showed her, immediately recognizing the knight with the falling star on his tabard as your teacher of swordsmanship.
>A swordmaster, you say. Clever boy.
she admits with a grin. You shrug.
>Yeah, that might be the reason I managed to win this. Most likely, this would have ended differently with any other weapon.
Ariadne shakes her head.
>That's what you said once. Afterwards, you threw me off my horse after having touched a lance maybe twice in your life. And hammered in my face with a mace. You're better than you might think, wimp. Also... did you grow? You don't look just that wimpish anymore.
You nod.
>Actually, I did grow. Seven inches taller by now.
After some more chatting, Ariadne heads back to the castle to get herself some balm for the bruises the various dents in her armor might have caused.
You head back to the crowd that has gathered to watch you. Lord Sang-Valois is clapping and his Master-of-Arms is giving you an approving nod.
>That was an impressive fight, Jean. A really impressive one. I say we head inside for now. It's almost dinner time.
Well, you surely can agree with this. Especially if the dinner consists of stuffed rabbit like this.
>Well, I think we finished everything official for today. Your lessons will begin tomorrow morning.
Lord Sang-Valois tells you. You thank him and leave the hall. It's a surprisingly pleasant night considering it's November. Also, you don't really feel like sleeping yet. Maybe you should meet up with someone? Some chatting might help you set your mind in the right direction.
Who would you like to talk to?
>Lord David. We didn't have lots of time to talk.
>Ariadne. We should make sure we didn't hurt her too badly.
>Annabelle. We spent some time together while traveling, but the travel made it lower in quality.
>The Master-of-Arms. He might tell us something we didn't know about military things yet. Also, knowing why he's the Master-of-Arms instead of Ariadne sounds interesting.
>Gerard. After the fight, we could use another bath.
>The soldiers made a bonfire at the training grounds again. Maybe we could join them?
>Alphonse. We learned a lot about swordfighting so far, but it feels like something is missing. Maybe he can tell us what it is?
>Someone else? (Write in)

>>1106864
>The soldiers made a bonfire at the training grounds again. Maybe we could join them?
Let's check it out since the last time we were here there was no time for it.

You decide to join the soldiers around the bonfire. They seem to be having a good time, joking and singing together.
>Hey, aren't you Lord de Labendai? Good evening.
one of the soldiers greets you. You nod and take a seat.
>How comes you're joining us soldiers out here?
he asks. Well, he's right to ask. What convinced you to spend time here.
>I would like an opinion on (what?)
>I just wanted to have a good time with a few less social norms to follow.
>Actually, I would like to learn about (what?)
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1107067
>I just wanted to have a good time with a few less social norms to follow.

>>1107067
>>I just wanted to have a good time with a few less social norms to follow.

Okay, guys. I'll continue this in around ten hours, as I am too tired to be creative. It's almost 2 am here. Good night and thanks for playing.

>Honestly, I just wanted to have a good time without having to worry about too many social norms.
The soldier pats your back.
>Well, you've come to the right place, then. Now, let us enjoy the night.
For some more hours, you drink and joke with the soldiers, sing along with them, picking up a few soldier songs yourself and generally enjoy yourself.
Once you get up to leave, the soldiers wish you a good night, before starting to leave themselves. You suspect this might be due to the fact that their second-in-command will wake them at dawn, expecting them to work extra hard, after the things that happened in the evening.
Falling asleep is easy now and the morning comes quickly. At breakfast, a familiar man greets you. It's Klaus Schultze, the famous German scholar.
>Good morning, Lord de Labendai. I will be your personal teacher. We thought you might be interested in different subjects than Lady Annabelle. After all, two people can cover more ground if than one, right?
He's kind of right. You could teach each other about the subjects you didn't share, doubling the learning yield.
>Well, first we would have to decide on the subjects you are interested in. I made you a little list to choose from.
The 'little list' he hands you is more like a whole scroll, written in his neat handwriting, filled with tons of various subjects.
[Take three]
>Court and Reign
>Chess
>Mathematics
>Natural sciences
>Engineering
>Architecture
>Finance and Economy
>History
>Latin
>English
>Germanic languages and dialects
This is underlined, suggesting that this might be Klaus' strongest suit.
>Diplomacy and court
>Tactics and strategy
>Personal military training
To this, he added 'overseen by the Master-of-Arms personally'.
>Medicine
>Music
>Or would you like a different topic? Write it down here: _______________

>>1110056
>Court and Reign
>History
>Tactics and strategy

>>1110056
>Court and Reign
>Tactics and strategy
>Chess

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>1110379
>>1110750
Rolling a tie-breaker for
1. History
2. Chess
Now, roll me 3d20+1 for your learning success. Best of three, as always.

Rolled 12, 4, 11 + 2 = 29 (3d20 + 2)

>>1110930
Will we get to choose more subjects later once we learn those?

Rolled 20, 12, 3 + 1 = 36 (3d20 + 1)

>>1110930
>>1110940
Added +2 instead of 1.

>>1110940
Sure. You'll visit here three more times in the next years, allowing you nine more subjects at least. Maybe more, should you roll well enough?

Rolled 20, 4, 10 + 1 = 35 (3d20 + 1)

>>1110930

Rolled 13, 14, 18 + 1 = 46 (3d20 + 1)

And a third roll, so we can continue.

The first weeks, you spend learning about court and regency from dawn until dusk, only interrupted by small breaks at the meals. Klaus is a strict, but very good teacher, greatly helping you with the subject at hand. You knew about the appropriate behaviour already, since Annabelle and Missa taught you well. Also, the lessons in administration you got from Lord d'Orleans help you with this a lot. You take about two and a half weeks, until Klaus closes the book he was using to teach you.
>You did impressively. I estimated to need a month of time for the basics, but you learned so very well that you are ahead of time a great amount. Now, we could continue with this and work to have you become a master of this.
He clears his throat and adjusts his glasses.
>Also, we could continue with the other subjects you chose. If you are this fast with learning all the time, we surely could fit in a fourth subject. Or you could take a break to do something different. A lord has to do a lot of things besides learning, right?
Well, this is a good question. You've got one and a half week of time that you might use however you see fit. What do you want to do with it?
>Continue. A lord is only worthy of his rank if he can be considered a masterful ruler.
>Change to the next topic. We need to learn as much as we can. We can deal with becoming a master later.
>Take some time off to (do what?). [If you wish, I could add a list of options for this. Just ask me.]
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1111303
>Continue. A lord is only worthy of his rank if he can be considered a masterful ruler.

>>1111303
>Continue. A lord is only worthy of his rank if he can be considered a masterful ruler.
The people are only as good as their lord, and vice versa

>A lord has to do everything he can for his subjects. We will take the time we have. I need to learn everything I can.
Klaus nods in agreement.
>Well said. Let's see what we can do about this.
One and a half week later, you have worked on various facettes of ruling, developing solutions that fit your province's and personal situation. Klaus is very satisfied with your progress.
>Some people don't manage to develop a ruling style of their own in decaded of ruling. And then, there's you. Well done, indeed.
You feel like you learned a lot about this. Still, there will have to be quite some time of practical application required until you can truly call yourself a master.
[Roll a total of six bonus dice (1d10). Current ruling mastery: 0/100]

Rolled 1 (1d10)

>>1111472

File: Eire.jpg (36 KB, 387x501)

36 KB JPG

Rolled 6, 10, 2, 9, 7, 6 = 40 (6d10)

>>1111472

Also, since we have like three players at best, you can roll however often you like.

File: file (1).png (3.22 MB, 1104x1472)

3.22 MB PNG

Rolled 3, 3, 5, 10, 6, 6 = 33 (6d10)

>>1111472

You feel like you have grown in ability greatly. This is good news, since your people deserve a great ruler as much as they need him.
[Ruling mastery: 40/100]

The next topic is tactics and strategy. You learned quite a bit about this from Duncan already. Additionally, your personal studies on this topic were helpful, too.
Still, you know all about the things relevant to you now, so you're not too motivated to learn about the larger scale of troops, which you might never even see, let alone command.
Klaus doesn't let you slack off though, so you manage to be done with this topic after three weeks.
>Not your strong suit, huh?
Schultze asks you. You explain to him what caused your lack of motivation.
>I can understand your thinking, but that doesn't mean it's not worth learning. You never know what might happen, right?
Well, this sounds about right. You promise to work hard again. But on what, actually? Again, you got yourself a week of free time. How do you want to spend it?
>Further our ruling mastery. We need to perfect it.
>Let's work on mastering strategy. This will be important, should we ever have to fight.
>Change to the next topic. Learning about as many things as we can is important. Jack of all trades, master of none, is still way better than a master of one.
>Take some time off to (do what?) [Might offer a list of possible options if you wish.]
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1111540
>Further our ruling mastery. We need to perfect it.

>>1111540
>Further our ruling mastery. We need to perfect it.

>>1111544
>>1111552
Alright. Roll me four experience dice [1d10].

File: siege_engineer_by_pictish(...).jpg (153 KB, 600x872)

153 KB JPG

Rolled 4, 10, 10, 1 = 25 (4d10)

>>1111579

File: Ymirabae.jpg (229 KB, 1024x1453)

229 KB JPG

Rolled 1, 10, 10, 7 = 28 (4d10)

>>1111579

File: ws7.jpg (172 KB, 400x451)

172 KB JPG

Rolled 5, 2, 6, 6 = 19 (4d10)

>>1111579
What the fuck, these rolls

Again, perfecting the ways of ruling is a difficult thing to do based on theory alone. Still, you manage to do it anyway.
[Ruling mastery: 68/100]
Last is chess. This is a nice change of pace, since you've always been a friend of board games. It takes you only two and a half weeks before you are beating Klaus more often than not. You probably could have managed to do it fast, but it was just... so much fun.
>Impressively done again, Lord de Labendai. I think you will come to enjoy this game often in the future.
This sounds good. Hopefully, the opponents will be able to keep up with you.
>Again, you finished early. How do you want to spend the last ten days?
Klaus asks you. Well, you always could...
>Train your ruling more. It just has to be perfect.
>Train your strategic knowledge. Knowing how it works is one thing. Being able to apply it perfectly is another one.
>Chess was fun. Why not work on becoming a great master?
>Maybe we can squeeze in half a lesson on another topic? If we hurry?
>Well, there's not much use in trying to learn something new now. I think I'll just take these days off. (And do what?)
>Something else? (Write in)

File: meme 2.jpg (193 KB, 503x762)

193 KB JPG

>>1111680
>Train your ruling more. It just has to be perfect.

>>1111680
>>Train your strategic knowledge. Knowing how it works is one thing. Being able to apply it perfectly is another one.

Ruling has gotten enough love.
plus i remember us holding off on strategy at home specifically cause we were gonna learn some here from some experts.

>>1111687
>>1111731
>>1111680
Okay, I will switch to this:
>Train your strategic knowledge. Knowing how it works is one thing. Being able to apply it perfectly is another one.

Feeling that your knowledge about ruling has reached the limit of theory, you decide to work on the practical aspects later. This is a thing best done at home, anyway.
Training your strategic planning and instincts sounds like the way to go. Klaus leads you down to the training grounds, where he holds a quick chat with the Master-of-Arms, returning with a few men.
>Both of us get half the men, then we will try to arrange them into formations and such. Try to find a way to beat me.
Klaus tells you with a bit of challenge to his voice. Well, this might be because it is a challenge, after all.
You try your best, applying the things you know, being creative to counter Klaus' approaches and finally, force him into a draw.
>Well done, Lord de Labendai. Indeed well done. Not everyone reaches this level of understanding.
[Roll 6 bonus dice. Current strategy mastery: 0/100]

Rolled 2 (1d10)

>>1111774

Rolled 5, 3, 10, 8, 5, 2 = 33 (6d10)

>>1111774
Does mastery points even give an advantage?

Rolled 6 (1d10)

>>1111774

Rolled 5, 1, 9, 6, 4, 5 = 30 (6d10)

>>1111774
>>1111830
Are you retarded?

Rolled 8 (1d10)

>>1111774

>>1111833
Actually, this is the way I intended mastery points to be rolled. But given the fact that there are always like two players maximum, I take any kind of roll.
>>1111801
Yeah. Once you started gathering mastery points, your bonus to rolls also starts rising. At full mastery, you get a +5 bonus, unless you use the epic mastery, which gives an autosuccess most of the time.

File: tumblr_nvsy38Utr01tkwhs9o1_500.jpg (88 KB, 500x657)

88 KB JPG

Rolled 7, 3, 3, 1, 5, 1 = 20 (6d10)

>>1111774
>>1111865
Ya, but obviously that's not going to happen, so you adapt

Rolled 6 (1d10)

>>1111774

Alright, guys. It's 03:12 over here and I really should be going to bed. I'll archive this, so we can start fresh tomorrow. I'll let you know on Twitter and on here, should we still be on the board.
Good night and thanks for playing.

Rolled 4 (1d10)

>>1111774

>>1113073
And we're live. Good morning, guys.