>>1196205
>I think you're right. We should wait some more time. Once they reached basic literacy, we can evaluate what they would need.

>>1196205
>What is your opinion Ulysses?

Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>1196496
>>1196545
Alright, here's the tie-breaker.

>I think it's just like you said. Reading and writing take quite some time by themselves. If we add basic maths, we won't be done soon.
you tell your teacher.
>Therefore, we should wait and observe what might be important to them.
Ulysses nods.
>Definitely, Mylord. I will continue with the lessons in literacy.
After some more chatting, you head back to the castle. It's getting late and you should get some decent sleep before the next voyage starts.
Therefore, you quickly grab some dinner and head to bed.
But still... you can't really sleep well. Or at all. Maybe you need some fresh air?
Getting out of bed, you put on some clothes and head out towards the courtyard.
Where would you like to go?
>To the eastern tower. You can see the stars best from there.
>To the wall. Nothing is just as relaxing as looking down on Saint-Michel sleeping peacefully.
>To the kitchen. Maybe a little midnight snack will help?
>To the stables. Let's see how the horses are doing.
>Look for light. Maybe someone else is up, too?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1196715
>To the eastern tower..

You decide to head up the eastern tower for some stargazing. This never fails to calm you down.
Once you reach the top platform, you are met with a familiar view. Annabelle, watching the stars through her brass telescope.
You decide not to disturb her and stand back, taking a look or two yourself. From what you know about astronomy and such, the next days will have pleasant weather. Well, however pleasant February can be.
>Well, this is good news for travel. We won't get wet. Or stuck in snow.
Annabelle concludes before packing up her telescope.
>Good evening, Annabelle. Can I help you?
you ask her, making your fiancée turn around in surprise.
>Ah! Oh... It's you. Sorry. Didn't mean to scream at you or anything. You just surprised me.
she says. You smile and help her pack up.
>So you came up here to see for the weather?
you ask. Annabelle nods.
>Originally I planned on harvesting turnips. But since this tower hasn't got a single one, I had to settle for stargazing.
Both of you chuckle.
>So, are you excited about the wedding, too?
Annabelle asks.
Good question Are you?
>Actually, yes. All those people and formalities. I am afraid I will screw up.
>Not really. It's not much different from any other wedding, right? I saw a few of these already.
>Honestly, I'm looking forward to it. Meeting so many new people... And old friends, too. It will be exciting.
>Not as excited as I am for our wedding. Can't it be sooner?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1196877
>Not as excited as I am for our wedding. Can't it be sooner?

>>1196877
>Honestly, I am looking forward to it...

>>1196877
>Not as excited as I am for our wedding. Can't it be sooner?
>Something else? (Write in)
Actually, yes. All those people and formalities. I am afraid I will screw the bride.

>Honestly, I'm nowhere near the excitement I already have for our wedding. Can't it be sooner? Please?
you say with a joking tone. Annabelle laughs and nods.
>I think so. My father will be at the wedding, too. Once he is drunk, he might be open to bargaining.
You laugh and lead her back to her quarters. Annabelle kisses your cheek, while you kiss her forehead, just like you always do. But something is different from all the other times. Annabelle can't reach you without standing on tiptoes. Looks like you grew higher than you expected.
>Good night, Jean. See you tomorrow.
she says. Then, the door closes and you return to your quarters. This time, you manage to fall asleep without too much trouble.
In the morning, you meet up with your escort in the courtyard. Again, you will keep your number of soldiers low, since they will be needed back at home. Alphonse will accompany you, just like Annabelle and her maids.
Still, this is a considerably small escort. You might want to take a few more people, just in case.
Who shall accompany you to the wedding?
>Duncan. We need to come with as many knights as we can.
>Maurice. He's got the title and skill to deal with nobles. Maybe he can be helpful to our socialising?
>Missa. She's a social butterfly and our spymaster, possibly leading to a few interesting informations.
>Your parents. A true man should be honest about his roots, right?
>Damien. He needs to go out more. This is a difference from all the stable working and military training, right? Also, we might find a fitting knight.
>Somebody else? (Write in)

>>1197120
>Maurice. He's got the title and skill to deal with nobles. Maybe he can be helpful to our socialising?

>>1197120
>Damien...

>Lucius? I leave the official work to you for the next days. I hope you can deal with Maurice being absent.
you tell your head steward. He nods.
>I should be able to. Have a safe travel.
Leonore comes out of the servants' quarters, carrying a tabard that she and the other tailors must have made in an impressively small amount of time. It shows your crest and is perfectly Damien's size.
>Are you sure he should ride on his own?
she asks with a hint of nervousness to her voice. You nod.
>He's a great rider. If it would make you feel safer, you could share his horse.
Leonore shakes her head.
>Thanks for the offer, Mylord. Still, I prefer a cart over any horse. Easier to avoid falling off.
Then she joins Guy on the cart. You didn't expect to need one, but considering all the things you wanted to bring, it became necessary. Clothes for the travel, clothes for the wedding, the wedding gifts, a bit of arms and armor, since you heard about a tourney to be held, too...
>Thank you so much, Lord Jean. I won't disappoint you!
Damien tells you. His eyes are glowing with enthusiasm. Looks like he's really eager to see a proper court. Or the prospect of travel in general might appeal to him.
>Mylord, which route should we take? We've got two possibilities.
Alphonse asks.
You decide to take...
>The direct route. You will have to camp outside two nights, but will arrive a day earlier at court.
>The pleasant route. This route has various villages and such on its way. You could sleep in proper beds each night. Still, it would cost some coin...
>Something else? (Write in)

------------------------
That's it for tonight. I'll be somewhat busy tomorrow, so I should be able to pick this up on Saturday. In around... 36 hours. I'll let you know on Twitter. Good night and thanks for playing!

>>1197446
>The direct route
Our reputation should keep brigands at bay, and this will be both faster and leave space for shenanigans.

>>1197446
>The direct route. You will have to camp outside two nights, but will arrive a day earlier at court.

>>1197446
>The direct route. You will have to camp outside two nights, but will arrive a day earlier at court.

>We will take the shortest route available. Sure, we will have to stay outside two nights, but this will allow us to arrive at Lord de Pierre's lands earlier. Spending some time at court might help me build some connections to other lords.
you tell your escort. All of them seem able to agree.
Some time after leaving, you turn to Maurice and ask him about the road before you.
>Tell me, what can I expect of this travel? The last time, I killed an infamous bandit and ended a slavers' ring. Will I have to deal with something like this again?
Maurice shrugs.
>I doubt it. After your impressive display at dispatching Bulgar the Beast, most criminals decided to leave your lands. Bandits shouldn't be a problem. Maybe some game, since these have grown quite numerous over the last years. But that's about it.
You thank him for his opinion and the ride continues.
Is there anybody you would like to talk to in special?
>Annabelle. We're definitely not spending enough time together.
>Alphonse. He learned about something militaristic during the winter. Maybe he would be interested in talking about it?
>Maurice. Any news on our lands?
>Damien. You're interested to hear about his training progress.
>Leonore. How is the tailoring coming along? And our commission in special?
>One of our soldiers. How did the militia fare?
>One of Annabelle's maids. Why not, actually.

Also, roll me 5d20 for possible things to happen during the trip. Best of three, as most of the time.

>>1202460
>Annabelle. We're definitely not spending enough time together.

Rolled 16, 8, 6, 7, 1 = 38 (5d20)

>>1202482
And roll

Rolled 8, 17, 5, 12, 6 = 48 (5d20)

Another roll for your travel. Other rolls and opinions are highly welcome.

Rolled 6, 18, 12, 6, 3 = 45 (5d20)

>>1202460
Dice

>>1202460
We should spend time with Annabelle. Perhaps also get some light sparring in with Alphonse in the evening.

Looks like four good days of travel. Still, the last one is disastrous. Anybody up for a reroll? You've got a reserve of 26 free rerolls.

Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>1202712
Sure, let's go for one

>>1202876
Okay... this wasn't as good as intended, I guess. You can use up to two on a single roll. Want to do so?

Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>1203028
Let me try.

>>1203090
Ouch. Writing.

>Hey Annabelle. How were the last few days for you?
you ask your bethrothed. She smiles upon recognizing that it's you talking to her.
>Pretty good. I just hope my father manages to bring the dress I asked for. I can't afford not to look my best. Everybody has to be envious of you, right?
You chuckle a bit and you chat about the oncoming wedding.
>Oh, I think it's going to be the greatest wedding we'll see in a long time. Lord de Pierre is rich and influential, just like his soon-to-be wife. They will put in every bit of effort they can manage. Virtually everyone will be invited. It's going to be great.
This sounds about right. Even though Lord Armand tends to like things more simple, he knows when to throw in the right amount of extra effort. And pleasing his wife with an impressive wedding ceremony sounds just like him.
>You're pretty silent, Jean. Is something the matter?
Annabelle asks. Well, you didn't say much, so much is true. But you got a bit carried away with all the talk of weddings. Somehow, you lost yourself in the thought of...
>Your own wedding. It will be in less than two years and you've got some ideas for the ceremony and celebration.
>Life after the wedding. It's the biggest part, right?
>For some weird reason... Ariadne. She should marry someday, right? After all, her dowry will include all of the Sang-Valois lands, no matter if she likes it.
>Plans of family and such. Soon, you will get a sibling. And in some years time, you might be a father yourself.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1203142
>Life after the wedding. It's the biggest part, right?

>>1203181
Supporting

>I just thought about the time after the wedding. The wedding is just one day, while a marriage is forever, right?
you say. Annabelle nods in response.
>That's right. Crown Prince Dorian held a week of festivities upon his marriage to my older sister. Still, compared to the eight years they are married now, this seems like no time at all.
This seems about right. You can agree with her on this.
>I wonder how Armand and his wife will get along. I'm not sure how well they know each other.
Annabelle shrugs.
>They will know the respective other exists. For most marriages, this is enough common ground. We're actually an exception, you know?
You smile and run your hand through her hair. Anything else you would like to do is rather difficult, considering the fact both of you are on horseback.
>An exception I'm very happy about. I just couldn't marry somebody I don't know.
After some more chatting, Annabelle gets back to the topic.
>Say, Jean... how do you imagine the time after our wedding? Will everything be the same? Or will things have to change?

She's asking a good question. Write in an equally good answer.

>>1203518
Things may change like with everything in life but be sure I'll keep doing everything I can to make you happy.

>You know... everything is changing constantly. We will have to be the same. Adapting to new, different circumstances. But there is one thing that will never change. I will always do everything I can to make you happy.
you tell Annabelle, who blushes vehemently.
>Thank you... this... means a lot to me... Jean.
she stutters in response.
You smile and the ride continues.
On the first two days, you are still inside your realm's borders. You can't help but admire the quality of your roads. People have started fixing them in summer, so they are of above average quality. Traveling is easy and you manage to cover more distance than you expected to.
The third and fourth day are also mostly uneventful. The roads through the de Pierres' mountainy landscape are in good shape, but the constant up and down doesn't allow for much more than a regular distance.
On the fifth day, you come across something troublesome. An earth slide has cut off the road you wanted to travel on. You could bypass this, but it would take some time.
What do you want to do?
>Unblock the road. Keeping your way short and doing your friend de Pierre a favour at the same time.
>Follow the other way. We have to arrive somewhat on time.
>Something is off here. Keep your guard up.
>Something else? (Write in)

Well, guys... I'll be heading to bed. Should be back in around twelve hours. Until then, feel free to vote.
Good night and thanks for playing.

>>1204864
>Unblock the road. Keeping your way short and doing your friend de Pierre a favour at the same time.
>Something is off here. Keep your guard up.

>>1207768
Hey guys, I'm back. Looks like we've got a decision. Mostly, because there was no discussion, but still...
Roll me 3d20 for your efforts. Best of three.

Rolled 9, 18, 3 = 30 (3d20)

>>1208075

And a second roll, so we can continue eventually.

Rolled 5, 7, 5 = 17 (3d20)

>>1208342
Maybe I should actually roll...

Rolled 5, 11, 14 = 30 (3d20)

>>1208075

>Getting around this landslide would take the same time that removing it would. Therefore, I think our course is clear.
you say and get off your horse. Your men follow your example.
There is a lot of earth to be moved, making this an exhausting job. Wait a moment... earth? This far up? Something isn't right here.
>Guy! Edouard!
you call out to two of your soldiers. They turn around immediately.
>Watch our surroundings. The path back, anything that might come from higher up or lower down. The landslide consists of loose earth, which is unlikely to find at this height.
Your men nod and take up watch posts behind some boulder, obstructing any possible attackers from viewing them.
Some time after, Guy waves you over to his position.
>See this? The faint movement over there? Looks like a scout. A bad one, but a scout nontheless.
He's right. Seems like somebody created this on purpose, so you would take the other way. Bandits, you guess. Who else would do something like this.
>Now, what do we do, Mylord?
Guy asks. Of course, you know already. You will...
>Ignore these guys. If they notice you aren't any merchants or something equally defenseless, they won't dare to attack.
>Continue clearing the road. If you can take out the scout somehow, these people won't know you're actively avoiding them.
>Fortify your position and bait them into attacking you. Counter and dispatch them.
>Attack them head on. You should be able to take some dirty road bandits, right?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1208594
>Continue clearing the road. If you can take out the scout somehow, these people won't know you're actively avoiding them.
I don't want to engage in combat with Annabelle here.

>I would like to avoid combat as good as possible. We will continue clearing the road. Now, if the scout could possibly avoid returning with some of his friends, that would be great.
you tell Guy. He nods.
>Sure. He's not too good at his job, since he didn't watch my arrows possible range. If the wind stays like this, I could probably pick him off without much trouble.
he answers. This sounds good, but you're not too sure if killing him wouldn't alarm his friends.
How would you like to solve this?
>Continue like you did before. He won't leave before you are done, right?
>Kill him now. Even if his gang notices the fact that he's gone for too long, you should be gone before they know.
>Kill him if he tries to leave, otherwise keep everything as you did before. You can't have him telling.
>On second thought, these bandits need to be dealt with. They will just seal off the path again if you let them be.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1208725
>Kill him if he tries to leave, otherwise keep everything as you did before. You can't have him telling.

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>1208787
Alright. Roll me 1d20+1. Best of three.

Rolled 11 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1208841
Dice!

Rolled 15 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

>>1208841

Rolled 17 + 1 (1d20 + 1)

And the last roll.

>Continue like before. But if he leaves, put him down.
you tell Guy, who nods in affirmation.
Some time after, your men have finished clearing the path. All of you get back on your horses and begin to move towards your goal: Lord de Pierre's wedding.
The shadow in the distance begins to rise from his crouching position, causing Guy to draw his bow. The shot is mostly clear and hits the bandit right in the head, throwing him off the road and down the mountain.
>This guy won't tell anything anymore. Also, it might buy us another few minutes. I think the bandits will try to find him before doing anything first.
He's right. This will buy you quite some time.
During the next hour, all of you are on your heels, though. But as the mighty towers of castle Mont-de-Paix come into sight, the general mood improves again.
castle Mont-de-Paix is situated on a great mountain and surrounded by a bustling city that grew rich over their metalworking industry.
Although it doesn't looks much bigger than castle Saint-Michel, the mountain below it makes it look bigger and mightier by a great degree. The knowledge that most of the castle's rooms are carved into the rock below helps with this impression, too.
Riding through the city is an interesting experience, to say the least. You don't know any numbers, but you guess that this city alone might house more people than all of your realm.
You're still quarter a mile away from the castle when you are stopped by a group of soldiers.
>Hold on! What is your business here?
the leader exclaims. You show him the letter of invitation. He reads, nods and takes a last look at you in person.
>So, you're young Lord de Labendai? Sorry for the uncourteous treatment, I didn't recognize you immediately. Last time I saw you, you were... nearly a foot smaller.
After some brief inspection of his face, you find him to be one of Lord de Pierre's knight that were with him at castle La-Roche.
>I will lead you to the castle immediately. How was your travel, Lord de Labendai?

Your travel was pretty good for four days, but the last one was... surprising to say the least. Write in a fitting answer. Bonus points for puns.

Alright, guys. I'll be heading to bed now. Until I'm back in around twelve hours, feel free to bomb me with however many write-ins you can come up with.
Good night and thanks for playing.

>>1208992
Sorry, was away all day. Let's try the below:
"The travel, with the exception of the most recent day was exceedingly pleasant. This most recent day I was presented with an earthslide, seemingly watched by an incompetent of doubtful character. Had I been been accompanied by only hardened men, I would have seen to it. I would like to pay my respects to my friend and investigate the problem."

>Well, it took me five days to come here. Four of them were highly pleasant. But like you might see from our current condition, the last day was less so. We encountered a landslide, blocking off the path we intended to travel.
The knight, who had been riding an horse's length in front of you stops his horse and falls back to your side.
>A landslide, you say? This is highly unlikely up in our mountains.
You nod. Just like you thought.
>I know. It consisted of loose earth, mostly. While clearing it, we were seemingly watched by someone of doubtful character. Luckily, he wasn't too good at it and we managed to dispatch of him rather easily.
The knight looks at you in shock.
>Roadside bandits! This close to the capital! This has never happened before. But I guess it might be due to the currently changed positions of our men. We protected the main travel and trade routes in special, since we considered them to be heavily used due to the wedding.
This sounds reasonable. Highly frequented roads would be a prime target for bandits, especially with lots of wealthy targets.
>Had I only been accompanied by battle hardened men, I would have made short work of the bandits. But due to the fact I have women and children in tow, this seemed not too desirable.
you tell the knight, who nods in response.
>I will have the matter investigated as soon as possible. For now, my duty is to lead you to your quarters.

The visitors' quarters at Mont-de-Paix are filled to the brim with high-ranking nobles. You see the banners of de l'Etoile, Sang-Valois, Marac, d'Orleans, de Champagne, de l'Aquitain and many more. But in the middle of them, the impressive royal banner of the Valois thrones above all of them, flanked by the banners of de Pierre and Belamy. You expected this to be a big celebration, but with even the king present, you might still have underestimated it.
>As you can see, the rooms we have prepared for guests might already be a little full. We could try to squeeze you in, sure. But we also might find you a nice place to stay in the city. Just tell us what we should do.
your escort's leader tells you.
Well, this is a good question. What would you like to do?
>Stay in the city. It's not shameful, as you've seen quite a few other small lords do so.
>Try to find some space in the castle. You've got a small delegation only. There has to be some space, right?
>You're the heir to an ancient house and a close friend of Lord de Pierre. He surely has something prepared, right?
>Don't worry about the quarters just yet. Is it possible to meet up with Lord Armand yet? You would like to pay your respects first.
>Find some space for the women and Damien, then get us some reinforcements. These bandits should be dealt with immediately.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1212394
>Try to find some space in the castle. You've got a small delegation only. There has to be some space, right?

>I would like to stay at the castle, if that is possible. We're only a small delegation, so we should fit into reasonably small space.
you tell the knight, who nods in response.
>Alright. Let's see... One lord, one knight, eight soldiers and one... squire? Mylord, what is this boy's position? There's a protocol to follow.
He's asking a valid question. What would you categorize Damien as?
>A squire. He might not have a knight to take him in yet, but we might surely find one here, right?
>A servant. Let's keep it simple about his rank. It's his rank, right?
>A friend of the family. He wants to be a squire someday and I would like to show him what this would contain.
>Something else? (Write in)

The man nods.
>Right. Next, we've got the ladies. One noble lady, two servants and... mind telling me about this one?
He points at Leonore. Looks like he can't really categorize her. Maybe you should help him?
>She's one of my servants.
>She's my personal tailor. Just in case some of my formal clothes need a quick fix. The roads can be rough.
>She's Damien's mother. I can't let a boy his age leave home without his parents, right?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1212441
>A servant that aspires to be a squire.

>She's my personal tailor. Just in case some of my formal clothes need a quick fix. The roads can be rough.

>The boy's name is Damien. He's one of my servants, but aspires to be a knight someday. Since he's done well with his training, I decided to show him what being a knight entails. Damien, why don't you tell him what you've learned so far?
Damien smiles brightly and tells him about the various aspects of training.
>I know how to move in armor, I can ride and I have begun to train with weapons. Sir Duncan says if I continue to do this well, I might get to train with real metal weapons next year!
The man nods and turns back to you.
>Well, he surely seems eager. Do you have a knight in mind he could train under?
You shake your head. So far, you didn't find anyone suitable.
>Well, there will be a lot of knights present in the coming days. You might find someone. By the way, choosing a commoner as your squire... is a pretty Labendai thing to do, if I may say so.
You thank him for the compliment. Being compared to Lord Jandant is a great honor to you. The man smiles and continues his counting.

>This is Leonore. She is one of my servants. To be precise, she's my personal tailor. The roads are rough and I didn't want to risk arriving in subpar clothing.
you introduce Damien's mother. She slightly bows her head towards the knight, who nods.
>Smart idea. I remember a time I was out on a military operation. On the second day, my pants ripped and I had to wait two weeks before someone could mend them.
the knight says. Then he turns around and begins to head to the castle.
>A total delegation of fifteen people, one lord, one lady, one knight, eight soldiers, one squire and three servants. I'll see what I can do.
he says more to himself than to you. Damien beams after realizing the man called him a squire.
>Thank you for this, Sir... Sir... May I ask your name?
you call at him. He stops briefly.
>No problem, Lord de Labendai. The name is Vermont. Albert Vermont.
Then, he is gone in search of any reasonable quarters.

Roll me 5d20 for his search of a fitting quarter. Best of three.

Rolled 20, 2, 18, 14, 18 = 72 (5d20)

>>1212599

Rolled 4, 7, 19, 16, 8 = 54 (5d20)

>>1212599
Dice

File: damn it feels good to be (...).jpg (1.54 MB, 2000x1333)

1.54 MB JPG

Rolled 16, 14, 20, 20, 14 = 84 (5d20)

>>1212599

File: image (91).jpg (261 KB, 671x960)

261 KB JPG

>>1212599
>>1212820
holy fug, praise the lord

>>1212636
>>1212751
>>1212820
Damn, guys. Writing. Also, you've just gained a total of three additional free rerolls, putting you at a total of 28.

It doesn't take long for the knight to return. But unlike your expectations, he doesn't return alone. He is accompanied by Lord de Pierre, Lord Sang-Valois, Lord de l'Etoile and the king himself, all three of the lords loudly discussing who gets to greet you first.
>I get to greet them first. He will be my son-in-law!
Lord Sang-Valois says.
>My son is a member of his court, instead of a vagabond knight. I get to thank him first. For this, greeting him first is mandatory.
Lord de l'Etoile responds.
>As the lord of this castle, greeting the guests first is my duty. Especially if they are great friends like him.
Lord de Pierre adds, before the king ends their bickering by raising his hands.
>Mylords, it is absolutely obvious who is in the right here. I am. After all, the king has the right to anything first.
None of them got any good response, so the king approaches you first.
>It is nice to see you again, my friend. How did the Lord Above treat you during the last half year I didn't see you in?
he asks. Having already gotten off your horse upon seeing them approach, you quickly fall to one knee.
>I fared very well, your Majesty. Thank you for asking.
He grabs you at the shoulders and raises you to both feet again.
>Wonderful, Lord Jean. Now, I am surely intrigued to hear how your realm fared.
You tell him about the various additions you made in staff and infrastructure alike, making him nod with approval. Especially the militias seem to be to his liking.
>I expected great things from you and you didn't let me down. Wonderful.
Then, he steps back.
>Enough of the idle chatter for me, there are three others that want exactly the same thing.
Since Lord Sang-Valois has turned to Ariadne and Lord de l'Etoile is talking to Alphonse, Lord de Pierre remains.
>Welcome to Mont-de-Paix, Jean. How did you do?
Again, you are drawn in a pretty lengthy chat about his smiths, the scholar you recommended to him and much more. After you are finished, you are forced to keep your talks with Lord Sang-Valois and Lord de l'Etoile short, since the sun has begun to lower itself below the horizon already.
Albert Vermont, the knight from earlier approaches you again.
>Getting quarters for you was surprisingly easy. The king insisted to find rooms for you and your steward in one of the various quarters his company resides in. Lady Annabelle will stay with her father's company, her maids and your tailor alike. Your knights will stay at the barracks with us soldiers of house de Pierre. Sir Alphonse will join the other knights of his father's house, and for the boy...
he looks at Damien with a smile and a nod,
>We found a bed in the squires' quarters. I hope all of this is to your liking.
You can't contain your amazement. You knew quite a few people thought of you positively, but this impressive response overwhelms you completely. You nod eagerly.
>Absolutely. This is way more than what I hoped for. Thank you, Sir Vermont.
[cont.]

Your company splits up to settle in the various parts of the huge castle. Entering the room you have been asigned, you find it to be highly impressive for a guests' room. Being equipped with two beds, both looking highly comfortable, a fireplace, which is already doing great work in heating up the room, a desk for any office work you might have to do and some richly padded chairs, this beats even your best guest quarter by a good amount.
>I didn't know you had friends of such impressive rank, Mylord.
Maurice tells you after sitting down on one of the beds. You shrug.
>I knew, but I still was surprised. Now, what does the protocol for such festivities demand from me now?
you ask him. After all, he attended university, while you didn't. He should be the one more fluent in social customs.
>I already got the general schedule. The last lords are supposed to arrive in two days time. Until then, you are mostly free to do whatever you like. Being social with the various people sounds like a good plan, though. Afterwards, all of this will begin with a meeting of the lords and other important people. Usually, this is done over dinner.
You listen to him closely. This seems highly interesting.
>The next morning, the wedding ceremony will take place, followed by a huge feast. Most of the day will be spent eating and drinking. If you're smart, you should keep your drinking speed moderate, or you won't be around to see the night.
Sounds like a good plan. Your newly grown body might be better at holding his wine, ale or whatever is offered, but this isn't very difficult, considering your old frame. A big enough mug of ale could knock you off your feet already.
>The next days, the newfound union will be celebrated with a tourney, hunts and various other festivities. In total, it will be four days of celebration.
Now, this truly is impressive. You're not even sure if you could feed all these people for a single day, let alone a whole week.
>So for the next two days, I'm mostly free to do whatever I consider to be fitting?
you ask Maurice, gaining a nod as an answer.
>Pretty much. I think I will spend some time at the library. Somebody with this amount of wealth will have a great selection of books, I guess.
he tells you. Now, you've got a bit of the day left. It's not that late yet.
What would you like to do?
>You didn't get the time to properly talk with (Lord Sang-Valois/Lord de l'Etoile/somebody else). Maybe you should catch up on this now?
>There are a lot of other lords around you don't know yet. See if you can build some connections with them.
>This castle is huge and you're not sure if you can navigate it correctly. First, learn to find your way in here.
>The conversation with (King Gabriel/Lord de Pierre/someone else) was nice, but you just though about something you would like to tell them. Why not now?
>See how your companions have settled in. (Somebody in special? Generally?)
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1213051
>This castle is huge and you're not sure if you can navigate it correctly. First, learn to find your way in here.
>See how your companions have settled in. (Annabelle)

>>1213065
This sounds good. Perhaps escort both he and her senior maid on said recon.

Sorry for leaving without notice yesterday, I fell asleep. Writing.

The castle itself is a mighty building, even mightier if you consider that over half of it is below ground level. So far, you know how to find your quarter and the courtyard, but not much else.
You decide to take a walk around, so you can possibly find other things relevant to you.
Leaving your quarters, you quickly find yourself confronted with a problem. What are you actually looking for?
>Hello Jean, what are you doing?
a familiar voice calls out. It's Annabelle and Maria, her head maid. Looks like you stumbled over the Sang-Valois quarters.
>Hello, Annabelle. I'm just taking a walk around. Decided that I need to know the places I'm supposed to attend things.
Annabelle nods.
>Makes sense to me. Do you mind taking us along? I would like to see this castle, too.
You offer her your arm and together, you walk out into the fresh February air of the courtyard.
>Now, where do we go first, Jean?
Annabelle asks.
You've thought about going to...
>the main halls for dining, dancing and such. These will be relevant during the next days.
>the offices and conference rooms. You never know when you might need to know.
>the troops' training grounds. It would be highly interesting to see in what way their fighting style differs from your men's.
>you got pretty sweaty and dirty today. Where can you clean yourself?
>the workshops. Mont-de-Paix has the greatest metalworkers of the realm, and only the best of them are invited to work in the castle itself.
>the city. This is a massive, bustling city and you want your cities to be just like this. Why not take a closer look?
>the library. Maurice was pretty convinced of its quality.
>somewhere else? (Write in)


Sorry for taking this long, I lost some highly important document needed to apply for a job. I didn't find it, so I fear I'll have to stay unemployed for some more time. Yay...

>>1216436
>the workshops. Mont-de-Paix has the greatest metalworkers of the realm, and only the best of them are invited to work in the castle itself.
>the library. Maurice was pretty convinced of its quality.

>>1216522
Alright, writing.

Guess who just found the documents and was able to send the application just an hour before time ran out?

>>1216639
Good for you!

>I think I would like to see the workshops in here. House de Pierre became rich and famous due to their metalwork and still only the very best are invited to work inside the castle. These people must be amazing.
you say, making Annabelle nods.
>Also, I heard good things about the library. I'm sure someone of Lord Armand's intellect and financial ability must have an amazing one.
Annabelle nods again, this time more eagerly.
>Alright, that sounds like my place. Let's go, Jean!
She takes a few quick steps across the courtyard, before stopping abruptly.
>I... just realized I have no clue of where to go.
she says with a chuckle. You stop a servant and have him explain the way to you. Enter the building just ahead of you, go up the stairs, follow the third corridor until the fourth door...
Or was it the fourth corridor and the third door? You're not entirely sure, but you should manage.

>Roll me 1d20 for finding your way. Best of three. You won't get lost very easily. Rolling good will reveal other points of interest, though.

Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>1216908

>>1216927
We've got such a good sense of direction we found the Holy Grail along the way to the library.

Rolled 10, 14 = 24 (2d20)

>>1216937
Pretty much, yeah. Here are the two missing rolls.

Finding your way through the castle is coming to you easily, so you find the library after only a short moment of searching. Annabelle and Maria excuse themselves and head in, while you feel like some more scouting.
In what feels like no time at all, you find the dining hall, various meeting rooms, offices and the stables. Now, after having descended quite some stairs, down into the mountain below the castle, you have found the forges and workshops, shown by a sign pointing to the left, as well as the baths, which are shown with an arrow to the right. You've seen various kinds of baths, but this one seems... disproportionately warm. You can feel the warmth, even though you can't see anything yet.
Without taking much time out of your schedule, you have seen the most important parts of the castle. You can still do something today.
Now, how would you like to have the day end?
>Go to the baths. You have to clean up after this day.
>Go to the workshops. Even though it's late, there still seem to be quite a lot of people working.
>Go to the library. You wanted to spend time with Annabelle, right?
>Go to the dining hall and grab some dinner. You didn't eat much today.
>Find some other noble to socialize with. You might want to be well connected.
>Something else? (Write in)

Alright, guys. Gonna call it for the night. It's 3am over here, after all.
Since I'll be busy tomorrow, I'll be back on Thursday, sometimes around noon. I'll let you know on Twitter. Feel free to vote until then. Good night and thanks for playing.

>>1217454
>Go to the baths. You have to clean up after this day. with Annabelle

>>1217454
>Go to the baths. You have to clean up after this day.

>>1217454
>Go to baths. You have to clean up after this day.

You decide that you might need a bath. You spent over an hour shoveling mud from the road, after all.
Going down the pathway to the baths, the air is getting warmer and warmer. Something about this is different from other baths.
Once you turn around a corner, you see what it is. The bath house in this castle consists of a hot spring, deep down in the mountain. The room around it looks like it was cut into the rock to allow for better access and a nicer overall look. The walls are perfectly smooth, except of the places that are carved with depictions of people, animals and much more.
>Hello, Mylord. How can I help you?
a voice calls out to you. Upon turning around, you see a young woman, who seems to be running these baths.
>Good evening. My name is Jean de Labendai. Are these the baths of the castle?
you ask her, making her nods slightly.
>These baths are for the higher ranking people around the castle. Soldiers and workers have a regular bath house near the gate. Lord de Pierre, his family and council use this one. It's pretty surprising that you found these rooms. Not many people come down here.
Well, looks like you found something of interest. How would you like to deal with this?
>It's for the important people of this castle. You should head to the other one.
>You know you shouldn't be here, but... the hot water and all just is way too appealing.
>You're a fellow lord and good friend of Lord Armand. This should be allowed, right?
>You're above any council member in rank, so you are definitely allowed to use this. Get right to it.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1222184
>You're a fellow lord and good friend of Lord Armand. This should be allowed, right?

>>1222184
Ask if he has permitted its use by peers before.

>So basically it is for your Lord and his peers only? I don't want to intrude on something I am not supposed to use.
you tell the woman. She smiles.
>You're very thoughtful, Lord de Labendai. Since I heard Lord de Pierre is a good friend of yours, I suppose you should be allowed use it. It's not like anybody would really complain.
She makes an inviting gesture towards the little basin filled with steaming water.
>I would advise you to stay close to the edge at the beginning. The water can be surprisingly hot at times.
You look around for a place to get undressed, but can't find anything besides a few hanger for clothes.
>We don't have a changing room down here. But I can turn around if it makes you feel better.
the woman tells you. You nod and she turns to face the door while you get undressed and slip down into the water. She's right. The water is hotter than anything you're used to. Still, you slowly manage to adjust.
>Is there anything else I could do to make your stay more enjoyable, Mylord?
the woman asks. What is your answer?
>Something to drink would be nice.
>Could you wash my back? It's hard to reach on my own.
>Well, what could you possibly do for me?
>I'm fine, thank you very much.
>I haven't had the honor of learning your name yet. May I ask it?
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1222581
>Well, what could you possibly do for me?
Nothing lewd.

>>1222720
Alright, writing. No lewds inside the quest, understood.
Noncanon lewdbin unlocked. Will be linked once I have finished writing it.

>Well, what could you possibly do for me? If I may ask, you know...
you ask the woman. She smiles.
>Sure you may, Mylord. I'm here to make you feel the best I can. So I could get you a drink or something, help you with washing up, cut your hair, shave you... and I have these two hands to make you feel good.
You can't help but blush at the last part of the sentence. She notices immediately and starts to giggle like a schoolgirl.
>Excuse me for not being clear, Mylord. I'm being proficient in the arts of massage and your muscles looks like they could use some relaxation. But if you wish for something else, I would be glad to help, too...
You nod vehemently.
>Oh, right. I heard about this massage thing. Never got to try it, though. Could be nice, I think.
you stutter awkwardly, not helping with the woman's giggling.
It takes some time to compose yourself, but once you manage to, you decide to...
>Get help with washing up. You need to be squeaky clean.
>Get a drink. You heard something about cold drinks being beneficial to your health. Especially in a hot bath.
>Have your hair cut. You like it short.
>Get shaven. At the moment, you're sporting a not too decorative stubble.
>Get a massage. You are somewhat tense, after all.
>Honestly, you could help me with this certain thing... Makes the lewdbin canon
>Something else? (Write in)
As always, combinations are allowed.

>>1222820
I'm okay with lewds inside the quest only if they are with Annabelle.

>>1222845
>Get shaven. At the moment, you're sporting a not too decorative stubble.
>Get a massage. You are somewhat tense, after all.
We need to be presentable for the wedding.

>>1222850
I love how pure you are. If I may ask, are you female? Or catholic? Or both?
Writing.

>>1223006
Yes, I'm a girl.
Also I'm tired of every quest turning into waifuing everything that moves or How to build your harem types.

>>1222850
Yeah, gonna have to support this

>Honestly, my shoulders have been a bit tense for quite some time. The massage would be a great idea. And I need this stubble to be gone. Either a good-looking beard or no beard at all.
you tell the woman, making her nod and walk towards a table.
>Just lean over the edge a bit. This way, I can reach your face for shaving and you can enjoy the water a bit longer.
she says, returning with shaving supplies. Some kind of oil, a straight razor and a bowl of water. She's not wrong, the water is very nice.
>Now, just stay still. This way, I won't cut you. That would be highly undecorative.
She's great at this, leaving not a single hair behind without giving you the slightest cut. Finally, you look adequately presentable. You remember the king. He's always clean shaven, too. Would he approve of this? Surely he would.
>Now, just step out of the bath and lie down on the lounger over there.
she said while turning around. Covering your exposed nether region, you walk over and lie down on your stomach.
>Now, just relax and let me do the work...
the woman says as she begins to work your shoulders. She's using expert motions, along with some fragrant oil and you feel your shoulders relaxing like they didn't in quite some time. Actually, since the time you wore that plate armor that was too tight for you. Good to be back at full capacity.
She doesn't stop at the shoulder but works your neck, too. And your lower back. And your thighs. You're happy to be lying on your stomach, since it's getting you kind of worked up. It would be a sight to behold. An embarrassing one, though.
>We're done, Mylord. Just rest some more time until the oil has drawn into your skin, then you can get back to being dressed. Have a good night.
the woman says, yawning slightly. Then she goes to pack up some things. Looks like she intended to be done with her work some time ago.
After a few minutes, you get back into your clothes and turn to leave.
>Good night, Mylord. I hope you will enjoy your stay here.
she says her goodbyes. You take some time to praise her expert work and general helpfulness before leaving.
It's gotten late by now, so you head back to your quarters, where Maurice is already asleep. Quickly, you head to bed and let sleep come over you.
The morning comes quickly and begins with a rich breakfast. As you enter the hall, you see a long table built up, with Lord de Pierre and his soon-to-be wife sitting at the head. Next to them, the king has taken a seat, only taking a piece of bread and some water, which is quite a contrast to the various foods served. Now, you need to find a place to sit. Where would you like to sit down?
>There must be a certain system to it. Subtly ask someone for help.
>Just sit down anywhere. It's just a regular breakfast, not the big wedding feast, right?
>Take a seat next to someone you know (who?)
>Sit down at the higher end of the table. You're important, aren't you?
[cont.]

>Sit down at the lower end of the table. You're only a smaller lord, after all.
>Look if there are any indicators of where to sit. Cards with names or something.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1223045
Well, honestly... this sounds about right to me. Romance seems forced if it doesn't happen naturally. I fear I might have done it poorly, too..

>>1223240
>There must be a certain system to it...
We are known to be a well meaning pleb in most things.

>>1223240
>There must be a certain system to it. Subtly ask someone for help.

All those seats... and so many people to possibly fill them. Sitting in a place that's not yours could be considered rude or preposterous. This is a thing you don't want to risk.
Therefore, you wave at a servant with a carafe.
>Excuse me? I have to greet my friends and aquaintances first. Could you use the time to fill my cup already? And put some food on my plate?
The servant nods.
>Surely, Lord de Labendai. Anything you wish for in special?
You shrug.
>Not really. Surprise me. I fully trust your judgement.
You head towards the end of the table, subtly keeping an eye on the servant. He's still walking. Looks like your seat is higher up than you expected it to be. In fact, it is very close to the king himself. You guess that only the royal council and some parts of the de Pierre and Belamy family get a place closer to Lord Armand and Maria Belamy.
>Good morning, your majesty. Good morning, Armand. Good morning, Lady Belamy.
you say, keeping the greetings short and simple they're eating and distracting them from it just doesn't seem too courteous.
They greet back with a simple 'good morning' or just a raised hand, depending on their current chewing situation.
Upon sitting down at your assigned position, you find a richly decorated plate. Looks like the servant put a lot of effort into this. Even more if you consider the small amount of time he had.
Freshly baked bread, sliced meats and cheese, various kinds of fruit and a cup of cold milk. This will keep you in good condition throughout the whole day, you guess.
You're right. After finishing your plate, you have to sit at the table for a few more minutes, since moving too much is out of the picture for now.
Once you finally manage to rise, you decide to...
>You didn't get the time to properly talk with (Lord Sang-Valois/Lord de l'Etoile/somebody else). Maybe you should catch up on this now?
>There are a lot of other lords around you don't know yet. See if you can build some connections with them.
>The conversation with (King Gabriel/Lord de Pierre/someone else) was nice, but you just though about something you would like to tell them. Why not now?
>See how your companions have settled in. (Somebody in special? Generally?)
>See if there is something to do around the castle. (Anything special in mind? If so, tell me.)
>Something else? (Write in)

Well, guys... That's it for tonight. Since I'll be busy tomorrow, I'll be back on saturday. Hopefully some time around noon. Or said differently: In around 34 hours. Until then, feel free to vote, discuss, do whatever you feel like. Good night and thanks for playing.

>>1223045
Can you be my waifu pls?

>>1223992
>The conversation with (King Gabriel/Lord de Pierre/someone else) was nice, but you just though about something you would like to tell them. Why not now?
Mention the sauna/spa/bathhouse to the king and the other lords there and talk about how the maid there rubbed you so well, you hadn't felt like that in years and by the time you were finished, she was exhausted.

>>1223992
>There are a lot of lords you don't know...
Best to build report with some more of our peers.

You decide to socialise with some of the lords you haven't met yet. You will need to be well connected if you want your province to really prosper.
This choice leaves you with another choice. Where would you like to go to?
>Go to the training grounds. You will find quite a few knights there, along with the more militaristic lords.
>Go to the library. Scholars and intellectuals among the lords should spend their time here.
>Stay in the dining hall. Pretty much everyone will have to come here at some point in the day.
>Ask about a lord in special (who?). Then, visit him in his quarters directly.
>Something else? (Write in)

>>1229021
>Go to the training grounds. You will find quite a few knights there, along with the more militaristic lords.

You decide to head out to the training grounds. You need to brush up on your martial routine a bit, especially considering the tourney that will take place during the wedding celebrations.
In addition, you can use this to meet up with various knights and lords who had the same thought.
As it seems, quite a few people had it. The training grounds are filled with so many knights in well polished armor, the morning sun makes it hard to see anything at first.
The grounds are stocked with lots of training weapons, targets and anything you could hope to find there. In comparison, your own training grounds look pale, even though they are still pretty sizeable and well built.
What would you like to do here?
>There is a man drilling his honor guard. Maybe he could teach you some more about commanding troops?
>There are some men training their swordplay. This would be a great common ground.
>You're a decent horseback fighter, but not much more. Maybe the jousting knights over there could teach you some more?
>Lots of people around here mean a good chance to find a master of a weapon. You always wanted to fight even better with (what?)
>You can't force a conversation to happen. Just do some basic exercise and see what happens.
>Something else? (Write in)

Next post might take a while. Something came up. Sorry about that.

>>1229227
>You're a decent horseback fighter, but not much more. Maybe the jousting knights over there could teach you some more?

>>1229227
>You're a decent horseback fighter, but not much more. Maybe the jousting knights over there could teach you some more?